bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Тілдік санадағы биологиялық уақыт (тарихи жырлар негізінде)
Authors: Кулынтаева Т.Б. , Еспекова Л.Ә.
Published: February 2024

Мақалада фольклор жанры, оның ішінде тарихи жырлардың тілін антропоөзектік бағытта зерттеу негізге алынды. Тарихи жырлардың тілін когнитивтік аспектіде қарастыру арқылы ұлтымыздың  болмысын тануға болады. Себебі тарихи жырлар ұлт тарихынан, сол кезеңдегі маңызды оқиғалардан ақпарат береді.

Мақаланың мақсаты – тарихи жыр мәтіндері негізінде «биологиялық уақыт» көрінісін анықтау. Мақаламызда «уақыт» концептісінің биологиялық көрінісін айқындауда тарихи жыр мәтіндерінен алынған тілдік бірліктерге талдау жасалды. «Уақыт» ұғымының тарихи жырлардағы көрінісі талқыланды. Жұмыста биологиялық уақыт көрінісін зерттеушілердің теориялық мәліметтеріне сүйене отырып, тарихи жырларда берілуі жолдары айқындалды. Аталмыш уақыт ұғымын беруде жыр кейіпкерлерінің, яғни батырдың өмірге келуі, ер жетіп, жауға аттануы, хан болуы секілді сызықтық уақыт сипаты көрініс тапты. Жастық/кәрілік лексикондары антонимдік қатынасты білдіріп, бірі өмірдің бастауы (жастық) болса, енді бірі (кәрілік) өмірдің шегі ретінде алынды. Сонымен қатар тарихи жырдағы батырлар, билер үшін жастық шақ өміріндегі ең маңызды кезең екені анықталды. Тарихи жырдағы уақыт та ұлттық таным-түсінігімізбен ұштасып жатқаны байқалды. Мақалада биологиялық уақыт сипаты балалық шақ, жастық шақ, ағалық шақ, қарттық шақ деген кезеңдерге бөлініп қарастырылды.
MODERN ASPECTS OF MANAGEMENT OF HOLDING STRUCTURES
Authors:   Private Higher Educational Establishment «European University», Poliova Nataliya , Kryvous Dmytro ,   Private Higher Educational Establishment «European University»
Published: February 2024

The development of the division of labor and production cooperation leads to the creation of international production companies as a natural consequence. The influence of various factors in the global environment leads to the need to unify individual enterprises, which includes competition, development and interaction of enterprises, the choice of international strategies and other aspects. Depending on changes in the socio-political and economic environment of countries or regions, holdings effectively maneuver production and financial resources at the global level. As a result, international holding groups are becoming a key structural element in the world economy. The creation of international holdings outside of Ukraine or merging with existing international holdings has become an integral part of the strategy of the most successful Ukrainian companies. The article examines the main directions of development of the market economy in Ukraine and analyzes the formation of integrated corporate structures in the form of a holding. The procedure for the formation of vertical integration associations based on the use of a logistic approach is proposed; a methodical approach to identifying the stage of development of complex vertically integrated structures and assessing the consistency of the development of the efficiency of integrated structures with their reference state using dynamic models. The proposed use of the logistic approach to the formation of integration structures, in contrast to the traditional approach, meets the requirements of the general optimization of all systems of the integrated structure, which is especially important in the conditions of constant dynamic changes in the economy, as it allows not only to take into account the potential direction of the development of economic systems of various levels, but also adapt more flexibly to unforeseen changes. The procedure for the formation of integration associations, developed from the standpoint of a logistic approach, takes into account the possibility of bifurcation points depending on the promotion of integration development or restraint of integration interaction, and the corresponding reaction to the development or destruction of the integration structure.
SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT OF STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES IN GLOBALIZATION PROCESSES
Authors:   Sumy National Agrarian University, Brychko Alina , Bondar Artem ,   Sumy National Agrarian University
Published: February 2024

Developing a development strategy is a critical stage, especially in the conditions of constant changes in the external environment and in the context of the agricultural enterprise's own goals and policies. This was formed on the need to optimize activities, adapt to new conditions and achieve competitive advantages. The success of an agricultural enterprise largely depends on the ability to mobilize resources and internal skills. A key factor is also the ability of managers to choose a strategic course of development that corresponds to market conditions and their own needs. The purpose of the article is to analyze the international experience of strategic management of agricultural enterprises and to determine the most acceptable directions for the Ukrainian economy in the formation of a sustainable development strategy in the post-war period. In the current conditions of the economic crisis, the main goal for an agricultural enterprise is not only to avoid the termination of its activities, but also to create conditions for future profitable operation. The methodological basis of the research is the basic provisions of economic theory, scientific developments of domestic and foreign scientists on this topic. Developing and implementing a development strategy requires not only flexibility and adaptability to changes, but also a high level of leadership skills and the ability to manage risks to achieve strategic goals. The substantiation of the proposal for the formation of a strategy for the sustainable development of agricultural enterprises makes it possible to more precisely approach the choice of alternative management solutions, create a strategic set and ensure the necessary balance in the functioning of agricultural enterprises. This contributes to the stabilization of the production of agricultural products and the receipt of sufficient income, which will allow enterprises to effectively ensure the process of extended reproduction. The practical significance for the country's development lies in revitalizing the agro-industrial sector and the economy in general, by moving to a strategy of economic growth.
THE PROBLEM OF CREATING VALUE ADDED IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IN THE WORKS OF SOME REPRESENTATIVES OF THE FRENCH BRANCH OF THE CLASSICAL ECONOMICS
Authors:   Odesa National Economic University, Nesenenko Pavlo , Patlatoi Oleksandr ,   Odesa National Economic University, Huazhi Gui ,   Odesa National Economic University
Published: February 2024

The article systematizes the theoretical views of the classical school of economics, namely its French branch, on the problem of creation and distribution of value added in the agricultural sector, and proves the relevance of this development for ensuring the development of the agricultural industry of Ukraine and strengthening its place in the global value chains. It is shown that the early French school of economics raised important questions about the genesis of value added, the relationship between real and market value, the issue of proportionality in the national economy with a special emphasis on the role of the agricultural sector in this process, raised the problems of taxation of various industries and types of activity in accordance with their productive or unproductive nature. It has been proven that the prices for agricultural products of Ukrainian producers generally do not correspond neither to world prices for such products, nor to production prices that would cover costs and provide farmers with a profit that is not lower than the average. In the short term, these problems could be tackled by applying the elements of the agricultural policy of the European Union. In the long term, the goal of the structural policy should be the movement towards the production and export of finished products of the agro-industrial sector, the prices of which, including on the world market, unlike the prices of raw materials, are characterized by relative stability. The application of the elements of the scientific approach of the French classical school of economics within the framework of economic policy could contribute to the formation of the appropriate market infrastructure, the approximation of prices for domestic agricultural products to the world average, and in the long term to the emergence of complex value added chains within the national economy, which would unite the agro-industrial complex and related industries, generating multiplicative effect of creating value added both due to forward upgrading (shifting to the production and export of finished goods) and backward urgrading (strengthening of national industries which produce the means of agricultural production).
EMOTIONAL-VOLITIONAL SPHERE OF THE PERSONALITY OF THE MANAGER IN THE PROCESS OF MANAGING THE TEAM
Authors:   Poltava National Pedagogical University named after V.G. Korolenko, Barbinova Alla , Babenko Iryna ,   Poltava National Pedagogical University named after V.G. Korolenko
Published: February 2024

The article is devoted to topical issues of determining the emotional-volitional sphere of the manager's personality in the process of team management. The integration of personal and psychological characteristics of the manager into management processes is analyzed. The specifics of the manager's activities in modern conditions are indicated. The main qualities of the manager include: internal beliefs and willingness to manage; the ability to lead; the ability to manage, the desire for leadership; developed volitional qualities and self-regulation; analytical skills and critical thinking; the ability to work in a team and the ability to take responsibility. The specificity of the emotional-volitional sphere of the manager's personality is substantiated and its importance in the process of team management is described. Emotions and feelings belong to the same substructure of personality. The study noted that emotions and feelings can be differentiated into the following groups: in the form of manifestation (moods, affects, passions); by direction (positive and negative). The emotional sphere is interdependent with other cognitive processes: sensation, perception, memory, thinking, etc. The volitional qualities of the individual include: endurance, initiative, perseverance, organization, determination, self-control, independence, purposefulness, etc. The following characteristics indicate the formation of stable volitional qualities of the manager: the ability to carry out an adequate assessment of the situation, the optimal choice of ways for future action, the rational selection of means and tools, managerial decision-making, etc. The principles of regulation of the emotional-volitional sphere of the manager's personality in the context of the implementation of management activities by the team are determined. It is determined that the emotional-volitional sphere of the manager's personality is an integral component of the manager's personality, which reflects the situational attitude of a person to individual objects and volitional qualities and affects the communicative function of management.
THE ROLE OF BEEKEEPING IN ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES AND RURAL AREAS
Authors:   Sumy National Agrarian University, Kovalova Olha
Published: February 2024

The improvement of the economic performance of agricultural enterprises should not be accompanied by the deterioration of the quality of the environment and cause social tension among the employees of the enterprise and the population living in the surrounding area. Therefore, the problem arose of finding such directions of development of agricultural enterprises that would simultaneously contribute to the improvement of financial and economic indicators of their activity, as well as ensure the sustainable development of both the enterprises themselves and the sustainable development of the surrounding rural areas. The article examines the positive value of the agricultural sector, in particular: production of products, creation of jobs, provision of foreign exchange revenues to the state budget, the possibility of providing services of unity with nature. However, it was noted that the agricultural industry has negative consequences of its activity, in particular: the deterioration of the quality of the soil, the increase in the level of plowing, the excessive use of chemical plant protection agents leads to an increase in the level of soil pollution, the death of representatives of the fauna, as well as an increase in the level of human illness. It is proposed to restore and develop the beekeeping industry in order to reorient the activities of the agrarian industry on the principles of sustainable development. Both existing agricultural enterprises and small peasant farms can be engaged in bee breeding. For agricultural enterprises, beekeeping is a direction of diversification that can bring additional income. For rural residents, beekeeping is a way to provide themselves with a workplace and to earn from the sale of beekeeping products and the provision of pollination services to agricultural enterprises, which will be able to sell their products as organic at higher prices. However, starting a beekeeping business requires significant investments, which are not at the disposal of small peasant farms. Therefore, they are suggested to join cooperatives. This will make it possible to carry out laboratory analysis, form large batches of honey and sell it at a higher price. The cooperative can also pack and process honey with possible independent export. In general, the development of the beekeeping industry will contribute to increasing the level of employment in rural areas and improving the ecological situation, which corresponds to the principles of sustainable development.
CHARACTERISTICS OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES OF CHINESE AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES
Authors:   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Vakulenko Vitalii , Xiaowei Liu ,   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine
Published: February 2024

The article analyses the peculiarities of information and communication technologies of agricultural enterprises in China. The relevance of the work is due to the increasing digitalisation of agriculture at the global level, as well as the digitalisation of the Chinese economy. In addition, the role of modern technologies is becoming the key to the development of agriculture in general. The study is based on the works of Ukrainian and Chinese scholars on the selected topic. The purpose of the study is to analyse the current features of the use of information and communication technologies in the agricultural sector on the example of Chinese agricultural enterprises. The article analyses the main features of the use of information and communication technologies in agriculture. The peculiarities of digital and electronic agriculture are identified. The features of the introduction of information and communication technologies in agriculture in China are determined. The historical patterns of the use of modern technologies in agriculture of the country are determined. The main directions and manifestations of the use of information and communication technologies by agricultural enterprises in China are considered. Special attention is paid to the importance of social networks for Chinese agricultural enterprises. The main advantages of the use of information and communication technologies by Chinese agricultural enterprises are also identified, and the role of ICT in ensuring food security is considered. The article highlights the shortcomings and problems of using modern technologies in Chinese agriculture, among which are insufficient Internet coverage and insufficient information education of employees. The results of the study demonstrate the importance of information and communication technologies for Chinese agricultural enterprises and prove their positive impact on the development of agriculture in the country as a whole. The results obtained can be used to further improve information and communication technologies in Chinese agricultural production and to improve the digitalisation of agriculture in the country.
FACTORS AFFECTING EMPLOYEE MOBILITY IN CONTEMPORARY CONDITIONS
Authors:   Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman, Stozhok Alina
Published: February 2024

The article examines the peculiarities of employee mobility under martial law, which consist in a fundamental change in the labor market environment due to increased imbalances in the labor market in terms of labor supply and demand, mass migration movements to the western regions of the state and abroad, and the impact of global changes in human resource management on the course of employee mobility. The article examines the trends in the development of global trends in human resources management and their impact on employee mobility, identifies peculiarities in the processes of employee mobility under the influence of destructive factors caused by the consequences of active hostilities, analyzes the impact of global trends in human resources management on employee mobility, and identifies problematic aspects in the existing processes of employee mobility. The reasons for internal employee mobility are analyzed, taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and military escalation, namely, the increase in gender imbalances in the labor market, the reorientation of its qualification and professional component, and the introduction of the latest technologies in human resource management processes, in particular, models of generative artificial intelligence. The role of social dialogue, a human-centered approach, and macroeconomic stability in enhancing employee mobility is highlighted. The influence of corporate culture, relevant skills, and social status, in particular as a result of the mass migration of Ukrainians to save their lives, an increase in the share of women in the labor market due to the mobilization of men, new concepts of employment, and alternative ways of acquiring qualifications, is determined. The author identifies and summarizes the negative and positive factors of labor mobility that affect labor productivity and human capital development. The importance of the latest technologies and digital access for employee mobility is considered, namely the introduction of environmental, social, and governance standards, in particular the reorientation of business processes in accordance with the principles of the green economy, and the importance of proper corporate insurance and social protection is emphasized since, as never before, safety is now a key aspect of an effective working environment.
GRANTS FOR BUSINESS: THE DEPENDENCE OF THE ACCEPTABILITY CRITERIA AND CONDITIONS OF RECEIVING FINANCING ON THE AMOUNT OF THE GRANT
Authors:   Lviv University of Trade and Economics, Kobelia-Zvir Mariana , Zvir Yurii ,   Lviv University of Trade and Economics
Published: February 2024

The article analyzes a number of grant programs to support micro, small, medium and large businesses in wartime conditions, namely: "eRobota" program, "Own business" direction, EIT Urban Mobility, "eRobota" program for processing enterprises, USAID program for medium and large processing enterprises, USAID program for MSMEs in the grain sector in increasing grain storage and drying capacities, "Developpp" program, the USAID/IBR project program, the USAID program "export-oriented program for the processing of grain, oil and leguminous crops". After analyzing the eligibility criteria in the above programs, which relate to the applicant's business reputation, the following conclusions are drawn: 1. An ideal reputation is important for receiving a grant, regardless of its size - both for small and very large projects. 2. The applicant's contribution is not mandatory in programs with small grant funding and for start-up projects. However, organizations applying for large grants must provide the project with alternative resources in the amount of 30% to 50%. 3. The age of the organization is important for the grantor, especially with large amounts of funding. But for the development of micro-businesses and startup projects, this criterion is less important. 4. Relevant experience in the priority grant program is mandatory, with the exception of cases of financing business opening or startups. 5. The requirements for the presence of partner organizations are ambiguous, but in order to receive large grants it is important to demonstrate connections with other organizations. 6. The availability of audit reports is not mandatory for most funds, but documents on the financial status of the applicant for the last year must be presented. 7. The number of employees does not directly affect the amount of the grant, but when the project is approved, an obligation to employ a certain number of people may be established. 8. In programs with large grant funding, a requirement for a minimum amount of annual turnover may be established, which is a mandatory condition. 9. The presence of a business development strategy is a significant advantage when selecting and making a decision on awarding a grant. It was concluded that the eligibility criteria and conditions for obtaining financing depend on the amount of the grant. The larger the amount of the grant, the higher the requirements of the grantor to potential grantees. At the same time, the business reputation of applicant organizations is equally important for all programs. However, each of them contains a different set of criteria that determine the ideal reputation of a potential grantee.
ПРОБЛЕМИ УПРАВЛІННЯ ВАРТІСТЮ ПІДПРИЄМСТВА В СУЧАСНИХ УМОВАХ ГОСПОДАРЮВАННЯ
Authors: Хадарцев Олександр
Published: February 2024

В статті розглядається методологічна та аналітична база формування, оцінювання і управління вартістю підприємства в сучасних умовах господарювання. Досліджено економічний зміст вартості підприємства як об’єкту оцінки, методичний інструментарій оцінювання вартості, а також управління вартістю підприємства у розрізі її впливу на формування переваг суб’єкта господарювання на ринку. Визначено специфіку факторів формування вартості та ключові важелі управління вартістю. Виконано аналіз джерел формування майна та фінансового стану на прикладі підприємства ТОВ «КІОСК ВЕНДІНГ», проведено розрахунок вартості підприємства за чотирьома методами: чистих активів, середньозваженої вартості капіталу, капіталізації доходу, економічної доданої вартості. За результатами аналізу визначено напрями подолання проблем теоретико-методичної бази управління вартістю та надано пропозиції як реалізувати ці напрями у діяльності підприємства.
АНАЛІЗ СТРАТЕГІЇ СОЦІАЛЬНОГО РОЗВИТКУ ПІДПРИЄМСТВА
Authors: Махмудов Ханлар , Чухліб Ростислав
Published: February 2024

У статті проведено аналіз стратегії соціального розвитку підприємства, обґрунтовано її важливе значення для зростання рівня продуктивності праці, підвищення якості продукції (послуг) та розвитку економічної діяльності підприємства в цілому. Досліджено основні компоненти стратегії соціального розвитку підприємства. Здійснено детальну характеристику стратегії розвитку кадрового потенціалу підприємства, з’ясовано її тісний зв’язок з реалізацією на практиці різних аспектів управління персоналом. Проаналізовано функції соціального управління та систему управління соціальним розвитком, встановлено, що прибуткові, економічно розвинені підприємства мають грамотно розроблену комплексну соціальну систему, тому що саме від соціальної політики залежить добробут і фінасовий розквіт будь-якого суб’єкта підприємницької діяльності. Охарактеризовано чинники, що впливають на формування стратегії соціального розвитку, здійснено їх класифікацію. Значну увагу приділено аналізу особливостям управління соціальним розвитком. Зазначено, що при розробці стратегії соціального розвитку підприємства слід враховувати специфіку менеджменту, оскільки і суб’єктами, і об’єктами управління в цьому випадку є люди.
Các rào cản và định hướng cho phát triển nông nghiệp tuần hoàn ở Việt Nam
Authors: Nguyễn Thị Minh Hiền , Mai Lan Phương
Published: February 2024

Ở Việt Nam, các nguồn phát thải nông nghiệp phát sinh từ sự bất hợp lý trong quản lý đất, phân bón, phân chuồng và đốt sinh khối. Chính vì vậy, việc tập trung nghiên cứu và phát triển nông nghiệp tuần hoàn trở nên vô cùng cấp bách nhằm hướng tới việc tối ưu hóa tài nguyên, giảm thiểu lãng phí, tái chế sản phẩm và bảo vệ môi trường. Nghiên cứu tập trung phân tích các rào cản trong phát triển nông nghiệp tuần hoàn dựa trên việc tổng hợp những nghiên cứu về lý luận nông nghiệp tuần hoàn trên thế giới và ở Việt Nam, đồng thời dựa trên việc thảo luận nhóm với hai mô hình quản lý chất thải trong chăn nuôi tại Hà Nội và Bắc Giang. Bài báo đã phân tích 6 rào cản chính về chính sách, đất đai, nhận thức, tài chính, công nghệ kỹ thuật và tổ chức liên kết. Để thúc đẩy phát triển nông nghiệp theo hướng kinh tế tuần hoàn cần tập trung xây dựng và hoàn thiện hành lang pháp lý, thúc đẩy nghiên cứu khoa học công nghệ, đẩy mạnh tuyên truyền, xây dựng hệ thống cơ sở dữ liệu và hình thành chuỗi liên kết giữa các doanh nghiệp và người sản xuất.
Pragmatism in manual therapy trials for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review
Authors: Adams Kyle R. , Famuyide Ayodeji O. , Young Jodi L. , Maddox C. Daniel , Rhon Daniel I.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Manual therapy is an often-utilized intervention for the management of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The interpretation of results presented by these trials can be affected by how well the study designs align applicability to real-world clinical settings.
Aim: To examine the existing body of clinical trials investigating manual therapy for knee OA to determine where they fall on the efficacy-effectiveness spectrum.
Methods: This systematic review has been guided and informed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Randomized controlled trials that investigated manual therapy treatments for adults with knee OA were retrieved via searches of multiple databases to identify trials published prior to April 2023. The Rating of Included Trials on the Efficacy-Effectiveness Spectrum (RITES) tool was used to objectively rate the efficacy-effectiveness nature of each trial design. The Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 assessment tool (RoB-2) was used to assess the risk of bias across five domains.
Results: Of the 36 trials, a higher percentage of trials had a greater emphasis on efficacy within all four domains: participant characteristics (75.0%), trial setting (77.8%), flexibility of intervention (58.3%), and clinical relevance of experimental and comparison intervention (47.2%). In addition, 13.9% of the trials had low risk of bias, 41.7% had high risk of bias, and 44.4% had some concerns regarding bias.
Conclusions: While many trials support manual therapy as effective for the management of knee OA, a greater focus on study designs with an emphasis on effectiveness would improve the applicability and generalizability of future trials.
The Particle bal in Qur’anic Arabic
Authors: Ahmed Yahya Madkhali Safiah
Published: February 2024

This paper provides a linguistic characterization of the particle bal, roughly translated as ‘rather’ in English, in Qur’anic Arabic. In the Qur’an corpus, which includes 77880 words, the particle occurs 121 times, and in its various occurrences, the particle does not have the same syntactic categorization nor the same semantic meaning or function. Therefore, the present paper explores the syntactic and semantic features of the particle alongside its uses in its varying positions. It examines the positions, distributions, semantic meaning and functions of the particle in different contexts. The paper also sheds light on the recurrent linguistic aspects that characterize the structures in which the particle occurs. The method employed involves distributional and qualitative descriptive techniques. The study shows that, in terms of positions, the particle either introduces a clause or occurs between two equal elements. In terms of functions, the study highlights that the use of the particle involves transitioning from and, in certain instances, invalidating the proposition expressed by the preceding clause as well as affirmation of and, in certain instances, an intensification of the proposition expressed by the following clause. The study also indicates the polysemy of the particle and that it can be synonymous with e.g. lakin ‘but’, bi-l-2aHra: ‘rather’, Haqqan ‘indeed’, badalan min ‘instead of’ and the emphatic particles 2inna and 2innama:. Moreover, based on the investigation of the features of the particle bal in its varying contexts, the study proposes a number of categories through which the particle can be analyzed, which include: an adversative coordinator, a conjunctive adverb, and a complementizer. The findings thus highlight the diversity in the syntax and semantics of a single particle that is realized as bal in the contexts of Qur’anic Arabic, and the paper makes a contribution to literature in the understudied area of the syntax and semantics of Qur’anic Arabic.
Geodetic mass balance of Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, 1999--2021
Authors: Bernat Maud , Belart Joaquín M. C. , Berthier Etienne , Jóhannesson Tómas , Hugonnet Romain , Dehecq Amaury , Magnússon Eyjólfur , Gunnarsson Andri
Published: February 2024

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Jökulsporðamælingar (Glacier variations) 2021--2023
Authors: Hannesdóttir Hrafnhildur
Published: February 2024

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Gosbelti (Volcanic zones
Authors: Sæmundsson) Kristján
Published: February 2024

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Nanocomposites and their application in antimicrobial packaging
Authors: Brandelli Adriano
Published: February 2024

The advances in nanocomposites incorporating bioactive substances have the potential to transform the food packaging sector. Different nanofillers have been incorporated into polymeric matrixes to develop nanocomposite materials with improved mechanical, thermal, optical and barrier properties. Nanoclays, nanosilica, carbon nanotubes, nanocellulose, and chitosan/chitin nanoparticles have been successfully included into polymeric films, resulting in packaging materials with advanced characteristics. Nanostructured antimicrobial films have promising applications as active packaging in the food industry. Nanocomposite films containing antimicrobial substances such as essential oils, bacteriocins, antimicrobial enzymes, or metallic nanoparticles have been developed. These active nanocomposites are useful packaging materials to enhance food safety. Nanocomposites are promising materials for use in food packaging applications as practical and safe substitutes to the traditional packaging plastics.
Distinct fungal microbiomes of two Thai commercial stingless bee species, Lepidotrigona terminata and Tetragonula pagdeni suggest a possible niche separation in a shared habitat
Authors: Castillo Diana C. , Sinpoo Chainarong , Phokasem Patcharin , Yongsawas Rujipas , Sansupa Chakriya , Attasopa Korrawat , Suwannarach Nakarin , Inwongwan Sahutchai , Noirungsee Nuttapol , Disayathanoowat Terd
Published: February 2024

Stingless bees, a social corbiculate bee member, play a crucial role in providing pollination services. Despite their importance, the structure of their microbiome, particularly the fungal communities, remains poorly understood. This study presents an initial characterization of the fungal community associated with two Thai commercial stingless bee species, Lepidotrigona terminata (Smith) and Tetragonula pagdeni (Schwarz) from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Utilizing ITS amplicon sequencing, we identified distinct fungal microbiomes in these two species. Notably, fungi from the phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Mucoromycota, Mortierellomycota, and Rozellomycota were present. The most dominant genera, which varied significantly between species, included Candida and Starmerella. Additionally, several key enzymes associated with energy metabolism, structural strength, and host defense reactions, such as adenosine triphosphatase, alcohol dehydrogenase, β-glucosidase, chitinase, and peptidylprolyl isomerase, were predicted. Our findings not only augment the limited knowledge of the fungal microbiome in Thai commercial stingless bees but also provide insights for their sustainable management through understanding their microbiome.
Case Report: Totally endoscopic minimally invasive mitral valve surgery during pregnancy: a case series
Authors: Wang Zhenzhong , Zhong Lishan , Guo Haijiang , Liu Yanli , Zhou Chengbin , Ye Yingxian , Han Fengzhen , Huang Huanlei
Published: February 2024

A totally endoscopic minimally invasive approach is widely used for cardiac valve surgery in normal adults. However, minimally invasive cardiac surgery during pregnancy is rarely reported. In addition to traditional median thoracotomy, totally endoscopic minimally invasive approaches can now be used for pregnant patients. We describe our experience with totally endoscopic cardiac valve surgery (TECVS) during pregnancy, which is safe for both mothers and fetuses.
Research progress and prospects of urban resilience in the perspective of climate change
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Wei Hongbin , Hassan Hasmadi , He Xiangyu
Published: February 2024

The natural hazards caused by climate change have a significant impact on the production and life of urban residents, enhancing urban resilience is an important way to cope with climate disasters and ensure the safety of urban systems. Based on the “urban resilience” research relevant literature, the paper applies bibliometric analysis software to reveal the research hotspots and evolution trends of urban resilience in the perspective of climate change. The results indicate that the main research contents can be summarized into four aspects: ⅰ) influencing factors of urban resilience; ii) evaluation index and method of urban resilience; iii) the impact of climate change on urban resilience; ⅳ) Enhancing urban resilience in response to climate change. Finally, potential directions for future research on urban resilience were proposed, multi-dimensional research on urban resilience should be carried out from aspects of theoretical development, urban planning based on resilience mechanisms should be carried out from the perspective of planning practice, and innovation and reform should be carried out in policy implementation and urban management. Accurately understanding the conceptual connotation and construction mechanism of urban resilience is a crucial premise for climate mitigation and adaptation. Relevant research conclusions can provide useful reference for theoretical research and spatial planning of resilient cities.
Brain-derived neuerotrophic factor and related mechanisms that mediate and influence progesterone-induced neuroprotection
Authors: Singh Meharvan , Krishnamoorthy Vignesh R. , Kim Seongcheol , Khurana Saira , LaPorte Heather M.
Published: February 2024

Historically, progesterone has been studied significantly within the context of reproductive biology. However, there is now an abundance of evidence for its role in regions of the central nervous system (CNS) associated with such non-reproductive functions that include cognition and affect. Here, we describe mechanisms of progesterone action that support its brain-protective effects, and focus particularly on the role of neurotrophins (such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF), the receptors that are critical for their regulation, and the role of certain microRNA in influencing the brain-protective effects of progesterone. In addition, we describe evidence to support the particular importance of glia in mediating the neuroprotective effects of progesterone. Through this review of these mechanisms and our own prior published work, we offer insight into why the effects of a progestin on brain protection may be dependent on the type of progestin (e.g., progesterone versus the synthetic, medroxyprogesterone acetate) used, and age, and as such, we offer insight into the future clinical implication of progesterone treatment for such disorders that include Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors in patients with advanced anaplastic thyroid cancer: an effective analysis based on real-world retrospective studies
Authors: Kuang Bo-Hua , Zhang Wen-Xuan , Lin Guo-He , Fu Chen , Cao Ru-Bo , Wang Bi-Cheng
Published: February 2024

Background

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) contribute to the treatment of patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Although prospective clinical studies of TKIs exhibit limited efficacy, whether ATC patients benefit from TKI treatment in real-world clinical practice may enlighten future explorations. Therefore, we conducted this effective analysis based on real-world retrospective studies to illustrate the efficacy of TKI treatment in ATC patients.

Methods

We systematically searched the online databases on September 03, 2023. Survival curves were collected and reconstructed to summarize the pooled curves. Responses were analyzed by using the “meta” package. The primary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR).

Results

12 studies involving 227 patients were enrolled in the study. Therapeutic strategies included: anlotinib, lenvatinib, dabrafenib plus trametinib, vemurafenib, pembrolizumab plus dabrafenib and trametinib, pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib, pembrolizumab plus trametinib, and sorafenib. The pooled median OS and PFS were 6.37 months (95% CI 4.19-10.33) and 5.50 months (95% CI 2.17-12.03). The integrated ORR and DCR were 32% (95% CI 23%-41%) and 40% (95% CI 12%-74%).

Conclusion

In real-world clinical practice, ATC patients could benefit from TKI therapy. In future studies, more basic experiments and clinical explorations are needed to enhance the effects of TKIs in the treatment of patients with ATC.
Comparative genomics and bioinformatics approaches revealed the role of CC-NBS-LRR genes under multiple stresses in passion fruit
Authors: Zia Komal , Sadaqat Muhammad , Ding Baopeng , Fatima Kinza , Albekairi Norah A. , Alshammari Abdulrahman , Tahir ul Qamar Muhammad
Published: February 2024

Passion fruit is widely cultivated in tropical, subtropical regions of the world. The attack of bacterial and fungal diseases, and environmental factors heavily affect the yield and productivity of the passion fruit. The CC-NBS-LRR (CNL) gene family being a subclass of R-genes protects the plant against the attack of pathogens and plays a major role in effector-triggered immunity (ETI). However, no information is available regarding this gene family in passion fruit. To address the underlying problem a total of 25 and 21 CNL genes have been identified in the genome of purple (Passiflora edulis Sims.) and yellow (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) passion fruit respectively. Phylogenetic tree was divided into four groups with PeCNLs present in 3 groups only. Gene structure analysis revealed that number of exons ranged from 1 to 9 with 1 being most common. Most of the PeCNL genes were clustered at the chromosome 3 and underwent strong purifying selection, expanded through segmental (17 gene pairs) and tandem duplications (17 gene pairs). PeCNL genes contained cis-elements involved in plant growth, hormones, and stress response. Transcriptome data indicated that PeCNL3, PeCNL13, and PeCNL14 were found to be differentially expressed under Cucumber mosaic virus and cold stress. Three genes were validated to be multi-stress responsive by applying Random Forest model of machine learning. To comprehend the biological functions of PeCNL proteins, their 3D structure and gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis were done. Our research analyzed the CNL gene family in passion fruit to understand stress regulation and improve resilience. This study lays the groundwork for future investigations aimed at enhancing the genetic composition of passion fruit to ensure robust growth and productivity in challenging environments.
Prognostic significance of lymphocytic foci composition in minor salivary gland biopsies for severe disease flare and severity in Sjögren’s syndrome: a 3-year follow-up cohort study
Authors: Park Hye-Sang , Martínez-Martínez Laura , Magallares López Berta , Castellví Ivan , Moya Patricia , Codes-Mendez Helena , Hernandez Sosa Nerea , Diaz-Torne Cesar , Laiz Ana , Sainz Luis , Tandaipan Jose Luis , Mariscal Anaís , Franco-Leyva Teresa , Casademont Jordi , Juarez Candido , Corominas Hector
Published: February 2024

Introduction

This was an ambispective cohort study evaluating the prognostic significance of lymphocytic foci and its lymphoid composition in minor salivary gland biopsy (MSGB) for short-term disease flare and severity in Sjögren’s syndrome (SS).

Methods

The inclusion criteria comprised individuals meeting the ACR/EULAR 2016 criteria who underwent MSGB with an infiltration of more than 50 lymphocytes and received clinical diagnosis between September 2017 and December 2018. Patients with inadequate biopsy samples were excluded. The number of lymphocytic foci and their lymphoid composition in MSGB were assessed using immunofluorescence staining. Major organ damage and improvements in the EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) were measured. Statistical analyses, including Cox and linear regressions, were conducted.

Results

A total of 78 patients with at least one lymphocytic focus were included in the study. The presence of higher T-cell counts in lymphocytic foci in MSGB was associated with severe disease flare, and a logarithmic transformation of T-cell count indicated increased risk (HR 1.96, 95% CI 0.91-4.21). Improvements in the ESSDAI were associated with higher total lymphocyte count and T- and B-cell numbers in the lymphoid composition of the lymphocytic foci. Seropositive patients exhibited higher T CD4+ cell numbers. Correlation analysis showed negative associations between age and lymphocytic foci and the T-cell count. Positive correlations were observed between antinuclear antibody (ANA) titers and total lymphocyte numbers.

Discussion

Patients with a higher number of T cells in the lymphocytic infiltrates of lymphocytic foci may have a two-fold risk of severe disease flare. The number of B cells and T CD4+ cells in the lymphocytic infiltrates of lymphocytic foci showed a weak but positive relation with the ESSDAI improvement during follow-up. Age and seropositivity appeared to influence the lymphoid composition of the lymphocytic foci.
An early warning model for predicting major adverse kidney events within 30 days in sepsis patients
Authors: Yu Xiaoyuan , Xin Qi , Hao Yun , Zhang Jin , Ma Tiantian
Published: February 2024

Background

In sepsis patients, kidney damage is among the most dangerous complications, with a high mortality rate. In addition, major adverse kidney events within 30 days (MAKE30) served as a comprehensive and unbiased clinical outcome measure for sepsis patients due to the recent shift toward targeting patient-centered renal outcomes in clinical research. However, the underlying predictive model for the prediction of MAKE30 in sepsis patients has not been reported in any study.

Methods

A cohort of 2,849 sepsis patients from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database was selected and subsequently allocated into a training set (n = 2,137, 75%) and a validation set (n = 712, 25%) through randomization. In addition, 142 sepsis patients from the Xi’An No. 3 Hospital as an external validation group. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to ascertain the independent predictors of MAKE30. Subsequently, a nomogram was developed utilizing these predictors, with an area under curve (AUC) above 0.6. The performance of nomogram was assessed through calibration curve, receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA). The secondary outcome was 30-day mortality, persistent renal dysfunction (PRD), and new renal replacement therapy (RRT). MAKE30 were a composite of death, PRD, new RRT.

Results

The construction of the nomogram was based on several independent predictors (AUC above 0.6), including age, respiratory rate (RR), PaO2, lactate, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). The predictive model demonstrated satisfactory discrimination for MAKE30, with an AUC of 0.740, 0.753, and 0.821 in the training, internal validation, and external validation cohorts, respectively. Furthermore, the simple prediction model exhibited superior predictive value compared to the SOFA model in both the training (AUC = 0.710) and validation (AUC = 0.692) cohorts. The nomogram demonstrated satisfactory calibration and clinical utility as evidenced by the calibration curve and DCA. Additionally, the predictive model exhibited excellent accuracy in forecasting 30-day mortality (AUC = 0.737), PRD (AUC = 0.639), and new RRT (AUC = 0.846) within the training dataset. Additionally, the model displayed predictive power for 30-day mortality (AUC = 0.765), PRD (AUC = 0.667), and new RRT (AUC = 0.783) in the validation set.

Conclusion

The proposed nomogram holds the potential to estimate the risk of MAKE30 promptly and efficiently in sepsis patients within the initial 24 h of admission, thereby equipping healthcare professionals with valuable insights to facilitate personalized interventions.
Cognitive performance in aged rats is associated with differences in distinctive neuronal populations in the ventral tegmental area and altered synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus
Authors: Sagheddu Claudia , Stojanovic Tamara , Kouhnavardi Shima , Savchenko Artem , Hussein Ahmed M. , Pistis Marco , Monje Francisco J. , Plasenzotti Roberto , Aufy Mohammed , Studenik Christian R. , Lubec Jana , Lubec Gert
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Deterioration of cognitive functions is commonly associated with aging, although there is wide variation in the onset and manifestation. Albeit heterogeneity in age-related cognitive decline has been studied at the cellular and molecular level, there is poor evidence for electrophysiological correlates. The aim of the current study was to address the electrophysiological basis of heterogeneity of cognitive functions in cognitively Inferior and Superior old (19-20 months) rats in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the hippocampus, having Young (12 weeks) rats as a control. The midbrain VTA operates as a hub amidst affective and cognitive facets, processing sensory inputs related to motivated behaviours and hippocampal memory. Increasing evidence shows direct dopaminergic and non-dopaminergic input from the VTA to the hippocampus.

Methods

Aged Superior and Inferior male rats were selected from a cohort of 88 animals based on their performance in a spatial learning and memory task. Using in vivo single-cell recording in the VTA, we examined the electrical activity of different neuronal populations (putative dopaminergic, glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons). In the same animals, basal synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity were examined in hippocampal slices.

Results

Electrophysiological recordings from the VTA and hippocampus showed alterations associated with aging per se, together with differences specifically linked to the cognitive status of aged animals. In particular, the bursting activity of dopamine neurons was lower, while the firing frequency of glutamatergic neurons was higher in VTA of Inferior old rats. The response to high-frequency stimulation in hippocampal slices also discriminated between Superior and Inferior aged animals.

Discussion

This study provides new insight into electrophysiological information underlying compromised cerebral ageing. Further understanding of brain senescence, possibly related to neurocognitive decline, will help develop new strategies towards the preservation of a high quality of life.