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Abstract Positional coding along the anterior-posterior axis is regulated by HOX genes, whose 3’ to 5’ expression correlates with location along this axis. The precise utilisation of HOX genes in different human cell types is not fully understood. Here, we use single-cell and spatial-transcriptomics, along with in-situ sequencing, to create a developmental atlas of the human fetal spine. We analyse HOX gene expression across cell types during development, finding that neural-crest derivatives unexpectedly retain the anatomical HOX code of their origin while also adopting the code of their destination. This trend is confirmed across multiple organs. In the axial plane of the spinal cord, we find distinct patterns in the ventral and dorsal domains, providing insights into motor pool organisation and loss of collinearity in HOXB genes. Our findings shed new light on HOX gene expression in the developing spine, highlighting a HOX gene ‘source code’ in neural-crest cell derivatives.

Abstract Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) is a well-established technique with numerous imaging applications. Yet, one of the limitations of FLIM is that it only provides information about the emitting state. Here, we present an extension of FLIM by interferometric measurement of fluorescence excitation spectra. Interferometric Excitation Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (ixFLIM) reports on the correlation of the excitation spectra and emission lifetime, providing the correlation between the ground-state absorption and excited-state emission. As such, it extends the applicability of FLIM and removes some of its limitations. We introduce ixFLIM on progressively more complex systems, directly compare it to standard FLIM, and apply it to quantitative resonance energy transfer imaging from a single measurement.

Abstract The global population is increasingly reliant on vaccines to maintain population health with billions of doses used annually in immunisation programmes. Substandard and falsified vaccines are becoming more prevalent, caused by both the degradation of authentic vaccines but also deliberately falsified vaccine products. These threaten public health, and the increase in vaccine falsification is now a major concern. There is currently no coordinated global infrastructure or screening methods to monitor vaccine supply chains. In this study, we developed and validated a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) workflow that used open-source machine learning and statistical analysis to distinguish authentic and falsified vaccines. We validated the method on two different MALDI-MS instruments used worldwide for clinical applications. Our results show that multivariate data modelling and diagnostic mass spectra can be used to distinguish authentic and falsified vaccines providing proof-of-concept that MALDI-MS can be used as a screening tool to monitor vaccine supply chains.

Abstract Mitochondrial dysregulation plays a significant role in the carcinogenesis. On the other hand, its destabilization strongly represses the viability and metastatic potential of cancer cells. Photodynamic and photothermal therapies (PDT and PTT) target mitochondria effectively, providing innovative and non-invasive anticancer therapeutic modalities. Cyanine dyes, with strong mitochondrial selectivity, show significant potential in enhancing PDT and PTT. The potential and limitations of cyanine dyes for mitochondrial PDT and PTT are discussed, along with their applications in combination therapies, theranostic techniques, and optimal delivery systems. Additionally, novel approaches for sonodynamic therapy using photoactive cyanine dyes are presented, highlighting advances in cancer treatment.

Ventricular septal defect is the most common congenital heart disease in children and is associated with patent ductus arteriosus in 1%-7% of cases. The coexistence of both malformities with hypoplastic aortic arch and aortic coarctation is even rarer. We present the case of a 6-year-old girl referred to our hospital because of dyspnea on feeding, recurrent respiratory infections, poor weight gain, and a heart murmur. The image studies revealed a ventricular septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, severe hypoplasia of the aortic arch with critical stenosis of the proximal portion, severe dilatation of the pulmonary artery and pulmonary, mitral, tricuspid, and aortic regurgitation. We will discuss the diagnostic approach and treatment in a tertiary reference center for patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Abstract Rapidly waning immunity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires continued global access to affordable vaccines. Globally, inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have been widely used during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In this proof-of-concept study we adapted an original-D614G SARS-CoV-2 virus to Vero cell culture as a strategy to enhance inactivated vaccine manufacturing productivity. A passage 60 (P60) virus showed enhanced fitness and 50-fold increased virus yield in a bioreactor compared to the original-D614G virus. It further remained susceptible to neutralization by plasma from SARS-CoV-2 vaccinated and convalescent individuals, suggesting exposure of relevant epitopes. Monovalent inactivated P60 and bivalent inactivated P60/omicron BA.1 vaccines induced neutralizing responses against original-D614G and BA.1 viruses in mice and hamsters, demonstrating that the P60 virus is a suitable vaccine antigen. Antibodies further cross-neutralized delta and BA.5 viruses. Importantly, the inactivated P60 vaccine protected hamsters against disease upon challenge with original-D614G or BA.1 virus, with minimal lung pathology and lower virus loads in the upper and lower airways. Antigenicity of the P60 virus was thus retained compared to the original virus despite the acquisition of cell culture adaptive mutations. Consequently, cell culture adaptation may be a useful approach to increase yields in inactivated vaccine antigen production.

The article focuses on the characteristics of forcible entries into objects and the term "breaching", which is often used interchangeably with this activity. The article further addresses the issue of fragments scattering when using a charge to overcome chain-link fences. The introductory chapter describes the execution of training in this field using the exercise facilities that are built for this purpose in military training areas. When conducting explosive forcible entry training, the safe distance for intervening teams and non-participants is determined using given formulas. The purpose of the simulation, mathematical calculations and experiment was to assess the extent to which fragments scattering occurs during explosive overcoming of these fences and whether the procedures used to determine the safe distance for non-participants are sufficient.

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy is a biventricular disease in which the effect on the left ventricle can be either equivalent to or more severe than that on the right ventricle. It is a rare disease due to its low reported prevalence and typically becomes clinically evident during the second to fourth decade of life. It represents 4% of sudden cardiac death cases referred for autopsy and 10% of cases of unexplained cardiac arrest. We present a challenging case report of a 68-year-old man who arrived at the emergency room with chest discomfort, palpitations, and light-headedness before a syncopal episode with urinary incontinence. During monitoring, ventricular tachycardia was detected and was treated with cardioversion. However, a follow-up electrocardiogram revealed low QRS voltages in limb leads and T-wave inversion in the left precordial leads. The patient underwent a transthoracic echocardiogram and a gadolinium-based magnetic resonance imaging study to evaluate the possibility of acute decompensated heart failure. Both imaging studies revealed low ejection fraction and systolic dysfunction in both right and left ventricles. Furthermore, in the late gadolinium enhancement study, extensive left ventricular subepicardial enhancement with septal predominance in a ring pattern and an irregular morphology of the right ventricular free wall were observed. A diagnosis of biventricular arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy was established based on the 2020 Padua Criteria. Although there is not a recognized classification within these criteria to establish its subtype, in our case there was a left ventricular predominance due to the presence of additional left ventricular categories.

Mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy) is very important process for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, functionality and survival. Its dysregulation is associated with high risk and progression numerous serious diseases (e.g., oncological, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular ones). Therefore, targeting mitophagy mechanisms is very hot topic in the biological and medicinal research. The interrelationships between the regulation of mitophagy and iron homeostasis are now becoming apparent. In short, mitochondria are central point for the regulation of iron homeostasis, but change in intracellular cheatable iron level can induce/repress mitophagy. In this review, relationships between iron homeostasis and mitophagy are thoroughly discussed and described. Also, therapeutic applicability of mitophagy chelators in the context of individual diseases is comprehensively and critically evaluated.

Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) is a rare genetic disorder with diverse clinical manifestations, often leading to underdiagnosis due to symptom similarities with other neurological conditions. In this study, we aimed to identify the genetic mutations underlying late-onset TSD in a 27-year-old patient with progressive neurological symptoms. Whole-exome sequencing revealed two hexA gene mutations associated with TSD: a previously known variant, c.805G > A (p.Gly269Ser), and a novel splice-site mutation, c.346 + 2dupT. Through clinical assessments, genetic analysis, and functional investigations—including RNA sequencing and enzymatic activity assays—we confirmed the pathogenicity of the novel mutation. Our findings highlight the efficacy of advanced genomic technologies in diagnosing intricate genetic disorders and emphasize the significance of functional validation to confirm the effects of mutations. Identifying compound heterozygous mutations in the hexA gene also provides insight into Mendelian inheritance patterns. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by overlapping clinical phenotypes and emphasizes the need for increased genetic awareness among clinicians. Accurate diagnosis of TSD has significant implications for patients and their families, allowing for informed genetic counseling and guiding clinical management decisions. While current treatment options are limited, timely and accurate diagnosis holds promise for future research and therapeutic interventions. This study highlights the value of a multidisciplinary approach in exploring the molecular basis of complex genetic diseases and informing clinical decisions.

Relay protection and emergency automation is an integral part of electric power systems. The algorithms of the relay protection and emergency automation are based on the use of analysis of the parameters of the electrical mode - current and voltage - obtained from current and voltage instrument transformers. As a rule, these transformers operate on the basis of the laws of electromagnetism. Operational experience shows that the magnetic core of current transformers under fault conditions can be saturated. As a result, the shape of the measured current is distorted which can lead to false operation of the relay protection and emergency automation system. In this paper a comparative analysis of the existing methods is presented. The advantages and disadvantages of them are described. The problem of current transformer core saturation is reduced to a regression problem. To solve the problem an artificial neural networks-based method is proposed. Computational experiments for both proposed and existing methods are performed. The results of experiments show that the efficiency of the proposed method is 1.25 times higher relative to the most effective existing method. The method of re-scaling data at real-time work applied to the restoration of the distorted shape of current is proposed.

Despite that the safety of cars is continuously increasing, improving the safety of road transportation remains a key issue of modern society. The design of suitable road restraint systems plays an important role. As the tests of barriers are technically demanding and expensive, and road traffic intensity is continuously growing, it is crucial to develop advanced models that would make it possible to explore various scenarios under which road vehicles may accidently impact into the road restraint barrier. The submitted study focuses on the use of nonlinear dynamic finite element analysis (NLDFEA) in the reliability assessment of road restraint systems, with a particular focus on steel barriers subjected to impacts by heavy vehicles. The outcomes of theoretical analyses are compared with the results in a compiled unique database of full-scale road barrier impact test results. It appears that a good match between crash test results and the validated NLDFEA model can be achieved, differences being mostly within a range of 10 %. When modelling the crashes of buses and HGVs, it is particularly important to model correctly shape and geometry of the front and impacting side of the vehicle, tyre sizes, wheelbase and overall truck dimensions, and position of the centre of gravity of the vehicle including trailer and cargo. Recommendations for subsequent research studies and for practical applications are finally provided.

Abstract Background Cardiotoxicity is a recognized complication in breast cancer (BC) patients undergoing chemotherapy with anthracyclines with or without trastuzumab. However, the prognostic value of heart rate variability (HRV) indexes for early cardiotoxicity development remains unknown. Methods Fifty BC patients underwent TTE assessment before and three months after chemotherapy. HRV indexes were obtained from continuous electrocardiograms in supine position with spontaneous breathing, active standing, and supine position with controlled breathing. The magnitude of change (Δ) between supine-standing and supine-controlled breathing was calculated. Variables were compared using t-test or ANOVA. Cardiotoxicity predictive value was assessed by ROC curve analysis. A p value of

Barley is one of the world's most important crops. Barley is used for both food and feed and is important for the production of malt. Malt quality is a complex function of barley genetics, environmental conditions during barley growth, and the technological aspects of the malting process. Due to the high heritability of more than half of the malting parameters, barley can be bred for malting quality. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) is a good way to speed up the breeding process. In this study, nine molecular markers were used to screen 115 barley varieties and breeding lines over a four-year period. The results were compared with malting quality parameters. Multicomponent correlation analysis showed a good correlation (R = 0.63; P ≤ 0.01) between marker screening results and malting quality parameters. In 93 genotypes (80.9%), agreement was found between molecular marker prediction and malting quality determination. Differences between molecular marker screening and malt quality parameters and possible improvements are discussed. The use of molecular markers in MAS is highly appreciated by barley breeders.

Abstract In flying animals, wing morphology is typically assumed to influence flight behaviours. Whether seasonal polymorphism in butterfly morphology is linked to adaptive flight behaviour remains unresolved. Here, we compare the flight behaviours and wing morphologies of the spring and summer forms of two closely related butterfly species, Pieris napi and P. rapae. We first quantify three‐dimensional flight behaviour by reconstructing individual flight trajectories using stereoscopic high‐speed videography in an experimental outdoor cage. We then measure wing size and shape, which are characteristics assumed to influence flight behaviours in butterflies. We show that seasonal, but not interspecific, differences in flight behaviour might be associated with divergent forewing shapes. During spring, Pieris individuals are small and have elongated forewings, and generally fly at low speed and acceleration, while having a high flight curvature. On the contrary, summer individuals are larger and exhibit rounded forewings. They fly at high speed and acceleration, while having high turning acceleration and advance ratio. Our study provides one of the first quantitative pieces of evidence of different flight behaviours between seasonal forms of two Pieris butterfly species. We discuss the possibility that this co‐divergence in flight behaviour and morphology is an adaptation to distinct seasonal environments. Properly identifying the mechanisms underpinning such divergence, nonetheless, requires further investigations to disentangle the interacting effects of microhabitats, predator community, parasitoid pressure and behavioural differences between sexes.

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Spicauda simplicius (the Plain Longtail butterfly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Hesperiidae). The genome sequence is 610.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.54 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,506 protein coding genes.

Abstract Immune checkpoints regulate the immune system response. Recent studies suggest that flavonoids, known as phytoestrogens, may inhibit the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. We explored the potential of estrogens and 17 Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) as inhibiting ligands for immune checkpoint proteins (CTLA-4, PD-L1, PD-1, and CD80). Our docking studies revealed strong binding energy values for quinestrol, quercetin, and bazedoxifene, indicating their potential to inhibit PD-1 and CTLA-4. Quercetin and bazedoxifene, known to modulate EGFR and IL-6R alongside estrogen receptors, can influence the immune checkpoint functionality. We discuss the impact of SERMs on PD-1 and CTLA-4, suggesting that these SERMs could have therapeutic effects through immune checkpoint inhibition. This study highlights the potential of SERMs as inhibitory ligands for immune checkpoint proteins, emphasizing the importance of considering PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibition when evaluating SERMs as therapeutic agents. Our findings open new avenues for cancer immunotherapy by exploring the interaction between various SERMs and immune checkpoint pathways.

To meet the extremely stringent but diverse requirements of Beyond Fifth-Generation (B5G) networks, traffic-aware adaptive utilization of network resources is becoming essential. To cope with that, a detailed traffic data analysis enables opportunities for mobile network operators to improve the Quality of Service (QoS) in the next-generation mobile communication systems. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the real world data collected from an operator’s 4G+ and 5G infrastructure during a seven-month campaign. Efficient Machine Learning (ML) based network traffic predictions are presented together with a statistical model to develop optimal resource allocation strategies by using the data gathered during the pandemic, an era when the data volume, as well as the bandwidth requirements and the end users’ expectations, were significantly elevated in terms of QoS, given the huge shift to the online world. Data analysis confirmed the assumption that there are traffic changes during the day and the whole week, which helped us to find new research directions regarding resource allocation optimization of next-generation mobile networks. Furthermore, we introduce the Predictive Energy Saver for Baseband Units (PESBiU) algorithm, which utilizes traffic prediction and power consumption analysis to manage the power states (sleep or active) of BBUs in a network. The PESBiU algorithm utilizes the results from ML predictions to effectively balance energy efficiency and network performance, demonstrating its potential for practical deployment in future mobile communication networks by transitioning BBUs to sleep mode during low-traffic periods, thereby achieving significant power savings.

Drought is one of the most important abiotic factors limiting plant productivity. Although the aromatic plants of the Lamiaceae family often grow in arid regions, drought tolerance varies greatly among the different species of this family. The effect of induced drought stress can be reduced by the application of selenium. The current study aims to compare the growth and biochemical responses of three species of the Lamiaceae family (hyssop, salvia, and oregano) to drought stress and the possibility of reducing the effect of stress in these plants by foliar treatment with selenium. Drought stress reduced the fresh and dry biomass of hyssop (by 35% and 15%), salvia (by 45% and 41%), and oregano (by 51% and 32%). Se treatment did not affect the growth of plants under drought stress, but it improved relative water content in hyssop and salvia under moderate drought conditions. A reduction in the content of chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b (in hyssop and salvia). In addition, an increase in the content of hydrogen peroxide (in oregano and salvia), malondialdehyde, and proline in plants cultivated under drought conditions was observed. Se treatment led to reduced levels of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde, along with an increase in chlorophyll a content (in hyssop and oregano) and proline content. The response of the antioxidant system depended on the plant species. Hyssop exhibited a significant increase in glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase activities. Oregano showed enhanced catalase activity. Salvia experienced a sharp increase in ascorbic acid content. Se treatment stimulated the accumulation of phenolic compounds and increased glutathione peroxidase activity in all studied species.

Accurate load forecasting is essential for the efficient and reliable operation of power systems. Traditional models primarily utilize unidirectional data reading, capturing dependencies from past to future. This paper proposes a novel approach that enhances load forecasting accuracy by fine tuning an attention-based model with a bidirectional reading of time-series data. By incorporating both forward and backward temporal dependencies, the model gains a more comprehensive understanding of consumption patterns, leading to improved performance. We present a mathematical framework supporting this approach, demonstrating its potential to reduce forecasting errors and improve robustness. Experimental results on real-world load datasets indicate that our bidirectional model outperforms state-of-the-art conventional unidirectional models, providing a more reliable tool for short and medium-term load forecasting. This research highlights the importance of bidirectional context in time-series forecasting and its practical implications for grid stability, economic efficiency, and resource planning.

Abstract Influenza A virus (IAV) defective interfering particles (DIPs) are considered as new promising antiviral agents. Conventional DIPs (cDIPs) contain a deletion in the genome and can only replicate upon co-infection with infectious standard virus (STV), during which they suppress STV replication. We previously discovered a new type of IAV DIP “OP7” that entails genomic point mutations and displays higher antiviral efficacy than cDIPs. To avoid safety concerns for the medical use of OP7 preparations, we developed a production system that does not depend on infectious IAV. We reconstituted a mixture of DIPs consisting of cDIPs and OP7 chimera DIPs, in which both harbor a deletion in their genome. To complement the defect, the deleted viral protein is expressed by the suspension cell line used for production in shake flasks. Here, DIP preparations harvested are not contaminated with infectious virions, and the fraction of OP7 chimera DIPs depended on the multiplicity of infection. Intranasal administration of OP7 chimera DIP material was well tolerated in mice. A rescue from an otherwise lethal IAV infection and no signs of disease upon OP7 chimera DIP co-infection demonstrated the remarkable antiviral efficacy. The clinical development of this new class of broad-spectrum antiviral may contribute to pandemic preparedness.

The paper deals with the contribution of a prominent legal Romanist to the development of legal propaedeutics (introduction to the study of law). This author dedicated the introductory chapter of his textbook on private Roman law to legal propaedeutics. The paper examines how this text has stood up in comparison with the contributions of the author’s contemporaries, what has made it of timeless significance and, conversely, what within it has been superseded.

The present study evaluated the agronomic and malting quality of 18 selected winter barley varieties. The varieties were obtained from the Gene Bank of the Crop Research Institute in Prague-Ruzyně. The varieties were tested under field conditions in three-year trials of basic evaluation. After the harvest, grain was malted and malting quality was determined according to international methods (EBC and MEBAK). The highest extract content was found in the Atlantick variety (80.6%). Proteolytic modification of the varieties Absolut, KWS Ariane and the line QK19/08030A_18 was at an optimal level. Values of diastatic power were high in all varieties, which is typical for winter barley varieties, similarly as low levels of cell wall degradation (friability) and high β-glucan content in the sweet wort. The lowest β-glucan content in the sweet wort was recorded in the two-row winter barley variety KWS Ariane (241 mg/l). Of the six-row varieties, the line QK19/08030A_18 had the lowest β-glucan content in the sweet wort (382 mg/l).

In this paper, the method for locating sources of acoustic emission by approximate calculation of potential coordinates using a grid superimposed on the area around the sensors that detected the wave was proposed. Various noises such as electromagnetic pulses and other external noises were removed from input data. The DBSCAN clustering algorithm was applied. The results were compared with the real state of the object under study after additional control. Analytical and practical research points to the possibility of using the presented method as a tool for determining the coordinates of defect development points and wave velocity.

The auto-balancing mechanism is used in the spin-dry regime of the laundry machine. The high rotating speed and unbalanced mass inside the drum create centrifugal force, which is the cause of vibration. The auto-balancing mechanism consists of a set of balls in the circular guiding track. During the spin-dry process, the balls settle in the opposite position to an unbalanced mass. The centrifugal force of the balls compensates the one of the unbalanced masses. The paper deals with the non-linear numerical simulation of the imbalance settlement and the following parametric study. The solution to the problem is demonstrated on an industrial laundry machine with a maximum capacity of 7 kg of dry laundry and a maximum rotating speed of 930 rpm. The proposed numerical model allows us to investigate the behavior of the auto-balancing mechanism and predict the vibration amplitudes of the system.

Honey authentication is a complex process which traditionally requires costly and time-consuming analytical techniques not readily available to the producers. This study aimed to develop non-invasive sensor methods coupled with a multivariate data analysis to detect the type and percentage of exogenous sugar adulteration in UK honeys. Through-container spatial offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) was employed on 17 different types of natural honeys produced in the UK over a season. These samples were then spiked with rice and sugar beet syrups at the levels of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 50% w/w. The data acquired were used to construct prediction models for 14 types of honey with similar Raman fingerprints using different algorithms, namely PLS-DA, XGBoost, and Random Forest, with the aim to detect the level of adulteration per type of sugar syrup. The best-performing algorithm for classification was Random Forest, with only 1% of the pure honeys misclassified as adulterated and Calluna vulgaris and 3 Erica cinerea) produced in the UK and corresponding subsamples spiked with high fructose sugar cane syrup, and an exploratory data analysis with PCA and a classification with Random Forest were performed, both showing clear separation between the pure and adulterated samples at medium (40%) and high (60%) adulteration levels and a 90% success at low adulteration levels (20%). The results of this study demonstrate the potential of SORS in combination with machine learning to be applied for the authentication of honey samples and the detection of exogenous sugars in the form of sugar syrups. A major advantage of the SORS technique is that it is a rapid, non-invasive method deployable in the field with potential application at all stages of the supply chain.

In this paper, the crystallization behavior of 50ZnO:47B2O3:3Nb2O3:0.5Eu2O3 (G-0 h) glass has been investigated in detail by DSC, XRD and TEM analysis. The luminescent properties of the resulting glass-ceramics were also investigated. By XRD and TEM analysis, crystallization of several crystalline phases has been proved (α-Zn3B2O6, β-Zn3B2O6 and ZnNb2O6). By calculating crystal parameters, it was found that europium ions are successfully incorporated in the β-Zn3B2O6. Photo-luminescent spectra showed increased emission in the resulting glass-ceramic samples compared to the parent glass sample due to higher asymmetry of Eu3+ ions in the obtained crystalline phases. It was established that the optimum emission intensity is registered for glass-ceramic samples obtained after 25 h heat treatment of the parent glass.

The purpose of the work was to assess the effectiveness of using a composite additive based on the sediments of chemical water treatment of thermal power plants and coal-containing components (peat) in the manufacture of ceramic bricks. The feasibility of using peat-containing components in combination with non-calcined sediments of chemical water preparation of thermal power plants as an additive to the ceramic mass in the production of various products is considered. Solution of technical problem is presented by additionally introducing peat with fraction of 0.5–5 mm in amount of 2–3.5 wt% and non-calcined sediments of chemical water preparation of heat and power plants in amount of up to 10 wt% into standard ceramic mass for production of building bricks. At Obolsky Ceramic Plant, prototypes of ceramic bricks with a composite additive of coal-containing components (peat) and chemical water treatment deposits were made. Studies of the physical and mechanical properties of the prototypes showed that the resulting ceramic brick corresponds to STB 1160-99 «Ceramic bricks and stones. Specifications ». Целью работы являлась оценка эффективности использования композиционной добавки на основе осадков химводоподготовки ТЭЦ и углесодержащих компонентов (торфа) при изготовлении керамического кирпича. Рассмотрена целесообразность использования торфосодержащих компонентов в сочетании с непрокалёнными осадками химводоподготовки теплоэлектроцентралей в качестве добавки в керамическую массу при производстве различных изделий. Представлено решение технической задачи введением в стандартную керамическую массу для производства строительного кирпича, дополнительно торфа фракции 0,5–5 мм в количестве 2–3,5 мас.% и непрокаленных осадков химводоподготовки теплоэлектроцентралей в количестве до 10 мас.%. На ОАО «Обольский керамический завод» изготовлены опытные образцы керамического кирпича с композиционной добавкой углесодержащих компонентов (торфа) и осадков химической водоподготовки. Исследования физико-механических свойств опытных образцов показали, что полученный керамический кирпич соответствует СТБ 1160-99 «Кирпич и камни керамические. Технические условия».

The first half of the 1st millennium AD is a practically unexplored period of the Lower Angara region history. The Pinchuga-6 was the first completely excavated burial ground of the end of the Early Iron Age in the region. It dates back to the 3rd to the 4th centuries AD. The materials of the burial ground allow for the first time to make a guess about the particular pottery that existed at that time in the Lower Angara region. Five typologically uniform vessels were found in the burial ground. The article provides a detailed description of the ceramics from the burials, including technical and morphological characteristics of the vessels and their location within the burials. Identification of Yazaevka, being a new type of thin cordoned ceramics, is substantiated on the basis of the distinguished features. Known material similarities were provided, the area of this type of vessels, limited by the southern taiga of the Middle Yenisei and the Lower Angara, was identified. Several features of ceramics of the Yazaevka type have been identified: medium-sand molding mass with the inclusion of stone-pounded temper; bottom-capacitive program for constructing; construction by patchwork within the model form using a leather lining; vessels can be round-bottomed, flat-bottomed and sharp-bottomed; the body can be either low spherical or high paraboloid; the ceramic is ornamented in the upper third of the form with the thin raised borders formed by finger pinches; the upper part of the vessel is decorated with impressions or notches, and the neck with finger pricks. Ceramics of the same type are present both in the burial and settlement complexes. The Yazaevka type of pottery dates back to the second quarter of the 1st millennium AD, however these vessels type are no longer encountered at the sites of the second half of the 1st millennium AD.

Primary cardiac sarcomas are extremely rare and often with dismal prognosis. Only a few case series and retrospective studies regarding its biological characteristics, diagnostics, and treatment were reported. The multi-modality therapeutic strategy has been discussed in the published literature, but often with contradictory results. There is thus, no consensus on the optimal therapeutic approach to date. We present the case report of the 66-year old female endangered by a large primary leiomyosarcoma expanding in the right-sided heart chambers with imminent risk of acute obstruction of blood flow. The patient was managed by urgent surgical resection. After the histological confirmation of incomplete R1 resection, the treatment was supplemented by adjuvant CT-targeted radiotherapy, resulting in extraordinary survival with complete remission over a 24-month follow-up period. Our case report aims to demonstrate a favorable result of an individually suited complex surgical and oncological treatment to support the multidisciplinary therapeutic approach to these patients. The article is supplemented by a detailed literature review providing a theoretical background and an overview of the acquired knowledge and possible strategies.

We present a case of a full-term newborn with complex congenital heart defects, including single-ventricle physiology and discontinuous pulmonary arteries. Prompt surgical intervention was performed, which involved pulmonary neoconfluence with autologous pericardium graft and systemic-to-pulmonary shunt placement. However, postoperative complications required stenting to address pulmonary artery stenosis.

Microdochium bolleyi is a fungal endophyte of cereals and grasses proposed as an ideal model organism for studying plant-endophyte interactions. A qPCR-based diagnostic assay was developed to detect M. bolleyi in wheat and Brachypodium distachyon tissues using the species-specific primers MbqITS derived from the ITS of the ribosomal gene. Specificity was tested against 20 fungal organisms associated with barley and wheat. Colonization dynamics, endophyte distribution in the plant, and potential of the seed transmission were analyzed in the wheat and model plant B. distachyon. The colonization of plants by endophyte starts from the germinating seed, where the seed coats are first strongly colonized, then the endophyte spreads to the adjacent parts, crown, roots near the crown, and basal parts of the stem. While in the lower distal parts of roots, the concentration of M. bolleyi DNA did not change significantly in successive samplings (30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 days after inoculation), there was a significant increase over time in the roots 1 cm under crown, crowns and stem bases. The endophyte reaches the higher parts of the base (2-4 cm above the crown) 90 days after sowing in wheat and 150 days in B. distachyon. The endophyte does not reach both host species' leaves, peduncles, and ears. Regarding the potential for seed transmission, endophyte was not detected in harvested grains of plants with heavily colonized roots. Plants grown from seeds derived from parental plants heavily colonized by endophyte did not exhibit any presence of the endophyte, so transmission by seeds was not confirmed. The course of colonization dynamics and distribution in the plant was similar for both hosts tested, with two differences: the base of the wheat stem was colonized earlier, but B. distachyon was occupied more intensively and abundantly than wheat. Thus, the designed species-specific primers could detect and quantify the endophyte in planta.

In the presented paper, two different meshing strategies are compared to show the accuracy advantage of properly constructed mesh. For this purpose, it was necessary to automatize simulation process, in order to perform a number of calculations without the necessity of user interaction. Later, a method of results extrapolation as well as a way of judging mesh quality are introduced for more throughout comparison of presented discretization strategies. The latter method, called grid convergence index, is also used to calculate probability range of accurate result. To conclude, outcomes of this study are in agreement with general opinon on pracitces for an accurate CFD result. Structured O-type mesh with refinement at wall boundaries (often referred to as “inflation layers”) performs better than simple free mesh.

AbstractThis article examines malapportionment in Mongolia from the introduction of a unicameral parliament in 1992 to the parliamentary elections in 2016. We especially address the question whether the level of malapportionment was significantly influenced by various types of electoral systems at both national and district levels. Due to its frequent electoral engineering, Mongolia can serve as a very useful case for testing the relationship between levels of malapportionment and different types of electoral systems. The results show that almost irrespective of the type of electoral system applied, the level of malapportionment grew constantly at both national and district levels until the election of 2016, when the growth ended. The importance of this finding lies in the fact that while most existing cross-national analyses of malapportionment presented rather contrary arguments, the Mongolian case demonstrates that plurality systems, or single-member district systems, are not unambiguous factor distorting fair apportionment.

Book review on Placák, Petr. Gottwaldovo Československo jako fašistický stát. Litomyšl – Praha: Paseka – Ústav pro studium totalitních režimů, 2015, 192 s.

The article presents an overview of Slovak literary samizdat periodicals published in the 1980s: Kontakt, Altamira, K, Fragment, Fragment K. The authors describe them, deal with their thematic focus, content structure, conditions of their emergence and general context of the period, and analyse selected texts that represent the specific poetics of literary samizdat. At the same time, it devotes space to the discussion of the Czechoslovak context of literary samizdat which cannot be separated from Slovak literary samizdat. At the same time, the article briefly outlines theoretical definitions of the concept of the literary samizdat as used in Central and Eastern European context, taking especially into account the specific character of Slovak literary samizdat. The authors draw on international research on samizdat, especially on the works of Czech literary scholars summarised in the encyclopaedic monograph Český literární samizdat 1948 – 1989 ([Czech literary samizdat 1948 – 1989] 2018). The article aims to inspire further research on Slovak literary samizdat.

This contribution gives basic information about the mechanical behavior of the facial part of the human skull cranium, i.e., the splanchnocranium, associated with external loads and injuries caused mainly by brachial violence. The main areas suffering from such violence include the orbit, frontal, and zygomatic bones. In this paper, as a first approach, brachial violence was simulated via quasi-static compression laboratory tests, in which cadaveric skulls were subjected to a load in a testing machine, increasing till fractures occurred. The test skulls were also used for research into the dynamic behavior, in which experimental and numerical analyses were performed. A relatively high variability in forces inducing the fractures has been observed (143–1403 N). The results lay the basis for applications mainly in forensic science, surgery, and ophthalmology.

In recent years, recurrent droughts have significantly affected spring barley production, reducing the quantity and quality of grain. This study aims to identify genotype-specific traits and the drought resilience of six different Hordeum vulgare L. (spring barley) genotypes, while also examining the potential of potassium application and fungal endophyte Serendipita indica inoculation to mitigate the negative effects of dry periods during the growing season. Field experiments were conducted over a three-year period from 2020 to 2022, measuring physiological, growth, and yield parameters. To get insight into the physiological state of the plants, we measured the soluble sugars content and the ratio of stable carbon isotopes in the flag leaf tissue, which reflects conditions during its formation. The dominant factors that influenced the measured parameters were the genotypes and seasons, as well as their interaction, rather than other experimental factors. The results showed that the Spitfire and Accordine varieties were the best performing in both the 2020 and 2021 seasons, as indicated by their yield. However, in the drier 2022 season, the yield of these two varieties decreased significantly (to 55% for Spitfire and to 69% for Accordine of their yield in 2021), while for the arid-region genotypes, it remained at the same level as the previous year. This study sheds light on the potential of various genotypes to withstand periods of drought and the effectiveness of using potassium application and S. indica inoculation as mitigation approaches.

Introduction: Abandoned military training areas are biodiversity strongholds, and this is particularly true for open-habitat and threatened species in Central Europe. Such species benefited from a specific disturbance regime created by military activities that maintained small-grained environmental heterogeneity. However, the disturbance regime no longer occurs after abandonment and the biodiversity is at risk due to forest and shrub encroachment if the areas are left unmanaged. To combat these adverse changes, several management options are used. As these options are not always applied for conservation purposes and substantially differ in their implementation, it is essential to assess their impacts on biodiversity.Methods: We performed repeated standardized surveys (first in 2009–2010, second in 2020–2022) of vascular plants, grasshoppers, butterflies and birds in 42 abandoned military training areas in Czechia, a Central European country. We calculated changes of species richness and abundance between periods for each taxon and related these changes to six different management types (woody plant cutting, mowing for conservation, mowing for agriculture, grazing for conservation, grazing for agriculture, vehicle movement) performed in these areas between periods.Results: Vascular plants and grasshoppers showed generally positive changes, whereas the reverse was true for butterflies, and birds experienced mixed changes. Although beta-diversity increased between periods in plants, grasshoppers and butterflies, this increase was driven by extirpation of common species. Management impacts greatly different between respective types and between taxa. Woody plant cutting showed solely positive impacts (on plants and grasshoppers), while the impacts of both types of grazing were mixed (positive on plants and birds, negative on butterflies, mixed on grasshoppers). Mowing for agriculture supported plants and birds but had negative effects on grasshoppers. Mowing for conservation and vehicle movement were linked solely to negative biodiversity changes (former in plants, latter in butterflies).Discussion: Some components of biodiversity, i.e. plants and grasshoppers, indicate that abandoned military training areas still serve as their strongholds and the management most likely contributes to this favourable state. In contrast, the pattern found for butterflies is worrying since the management performed up to now apparently does not meet their requirements, likely because they are based on smaller-scale habitat mosaic than currently occurs in the areas. Our results may serve as a guide for future prioritization of environmental management, and we urge for development of more nuanced approaches to save the butterflies.

TET proteins (methylcytosine dioxygenases) play an important role in the regulation of gene expression. Dysregulation of their activity is associated with many serious pathogenic states such as oncological diseases. Regulation of their activity by specific inhibitors could represent a promising therapeutic strategy. Therefore, this review describes various types of TET protein inhibitors in terms of their inhibitory mechanism and possible applicability. The potential and possible limitations of this approach are thoroughly discussed in the context of TET protein functionality in living systems. Furthermore, possible therapeutic strategies based on the inhibition of TET proteins are presented and evaluated, especially in the field of oncological diseases.

Cílem studie je v kontextu historického vývoje didaktiky analyticky vysvětlit teoretický konstrukt transformace obsahu včetně struktury jeho podpojmů, zdůvodnit jeho operacionalizaci pro výzkum vztahů mezi vyučováním a učením prostřednictvím sémanticko-logických sítí (S-L sítí) a demonstrovat aplikační potenciál tohoto přístupu replikací ve výuce fyziky, geografie a matematiky. Cílem výzkumu bylo popsat a vysvětlit důvody, které způsobily potíže žáků v porozumění vědeckým schématům během transformací obsahu ve třídě. Metody: Pro analýzu vztahů mezi vyučováním a učením prostřednictvím vzdělávacího obsahu byla použita modifikovaná metodika 3A rozšířená o kognitivní vrstvu. Metodologickým východiskem analýzy je komparace S-L sítí tří základních dimenzí obsahové transformace: vědecké schéma, tematizace vědeckého obsahu ve vzdělávacím prostředí a reprezentace mentálních schémat žáků při řešení problémů. Výsledky: Teoretické konstrukty a jejich metodologická operacionalizace byly ověřeny replikací ve vzdělávacích oborech fyzika, geografie a matematika. V každém z těchto oborů umožnily vysvětlovat vliv detailů výuky na změny ve struktuře žákovské znalosti s ohledem na specifický obsah daného oboru. Závěry: Prokázalo se, že i detailní momenty S-L struktury, v praxi obtížně zachytitelné, mohou mít silný vliv na žákovské porozumění struktuře vědecké znalosti. Přitom byly úspěšně replikovány teoretické a metodologické konstrukty. Získané poznatky mohou sloužit k bezprostřední podpoře vzdělávací praxe v příslušných oblastech učiva.

The aim of this study was to create an overview of the Czech Armed Forces' development in approach to environmental protection from 1989 to 2022. Using the methods of analysis, synthesis and comparison of the Czech, EU´s and NATO´s environmental legislation, we created a comprehensive and previously unpublished overview of environmental protection within the Czech Armed Forces. Found outputs were set into illustrations depicting the activities in the environmental field with internal links between civil legislation, EU's requirements, and NATO's policy in chronological order. We conclude that the year 2000 represents a key milestone from which the approach to environmental protection have stagnated. Among the reasons for the stagnation, we identify commanders' concerns about "green approach" to troop training and the lack environmental education within defence department.

To refold client proteins, HSP90 chaperone undergoes large structural rearrangements. Here the authors use NMR and molecular simulation and reveal structure and dynamics of a key functionally relevant metastable state of human HSP90α N-terminal domain.

Kluknavská, Andrea – Sabján, Nikolas: Marx. Marxizmus. Vybrané problémy štátu a práva. Praha: Wolters Kluwer ČR, 2022, 132 s.

Reliable operation of power systems (PS), including those with a significant share of hydropower plants (HPPs) in the energy balance, largely depends on the accuracy of forecasting power generation. The importance of power generation forecasts increases with the development of renewable power generation, which is stochastic by nature. Those kinds of tasks are complicated by the lack of reliable information on metrological data and estimated energy consumption, which is also stochastic. In the medium-term forecasting (MTF) of power generation by HPPs, the seasonality of changes in flow and inflow of water should be taken into account, which significantly affects the reserves and regulatory capabilities of the power system as a whole. This work discusses the problem of constructing a model for MTF of power generation HPP in isolated power systems (IPS), taking into account such atmospheric parameters as air temperature, wind speed and humidity. To address constant climatic changes, this paper suggests implementing machine learning models. The proposed approach is characterized by a high degree of autonomy and learning automation. The paper provides a comparative study of the machine learning models such as polynomial model with Tikhonov’s regularization (LR), k-nearest neighbors (kNN), multilayer perceptron (MLP), ensembles of decision trees, adaptive boosting of linear models (ABLR), etc. Computational experiments have shown that the machine learning approach yields the results of sufficient quality, which allows to use them for forecasting of power generation HPP in isolated power systems under conditions of climate change. The Adaptive Boosting Linear Regression model is the simplest and most reliable machine learning model that has proven itself well in the tasks with a relatively small amount of training samples.