Basic Research Research Articles

Antiobesity Drug Discovery Research: in vitro Models for Shortening the Drug Discovery Pipeline.

Obesity is a growing global health problem, leading to various chronic diseases. Despite standard treatment options, the prevalence of obesity continues to rise, emphasizing the need for new drugs. in vitro methods of drug discovery research provide a time and cost-saving platform to identify new antiobesity drugs. The review covers various aspects of obesity and drug discovery research using in vitro models. Besides discussing causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, the review focuses on the advantages and limitations of in vitro studies and exhaustively covers models based on enzymes and cell lines from different animal species and humans. In contrast to conventional in vivo animal investigations, in vitro preclinical tests using enzyme- and cell line-based assays provide several advantages in development of antiobesity drugs. These methods are quick, affordable, and provide high-throughput screening. They can also yield insightful information about drug-target interactions, modes of action, and toxicity profiles. By shedding light on the factors that lead to obesity, in vitro tests can also present a chance for personalized therapy. Technology will continue to evolve, leading to the creation of more precise and trustworthy in vitro assays, which will become more and more crucial in the search for novel antiobesity medications.

Container technology for transporting rock masses in quarries

Container technology for transporting rock masses in quarries

STRATEGIC ASPECTS OF HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF MILITARY OPERATIONS: UKRAINIAN EXPERIENCE

The purpose of the article is to study the strategic aspects of human resource management in the context of military operations and to substantiate the ways to minimise the negative effects of permanent crisis phenomena. Theoretical research has shown that when quarantine is lifted and during martial law, it is not about increasing the company's efficiency, but about how not to lose it. The research forms the theoretical and methodological basis for the practical aspects of HR management under martial law, but further study is needed to adapt the methods of HR management of organisations and enterprises to the conditions of military operations. An important aspect of management is to create conditions for the development of innovation, team spirit and the pursuit of high quality. Encouraging employees to be flexible in the interests of an adaptive organisation and continuously improving the quality of work are key. In addition, it is important to maintain working conditions that guarantee a high level of employee health and safety. By summarising theoretical studies and expert assessments, the article provides general approaches to the development of a human resources management strategy in the context of armed conflict. In the context of a permanent armed conflict localised in certain regions, it is important to have sufficiently qualified and trained personnel capable of effectively performing the tasks assigned. It is substantiated that motivation and recognition are important factors of personnel management in organisations. Ensuring the safety of personnel is the main task in wartime. The importance of effective internal communications in wartime increases significantly. The conditions of armed conflict can change very quickly, making flexibility and adaptability important qualities in human resources management. Organisations need to be prepared for rapid changes in plans and objectives, as well as changes in staffing levels. Effective management and leadership can ensure staff cohesion and motivation and ensure that tasks are completed successfully. Organisations should be prepared for changes in plans and strategies, as well as in the composition of their staff. The use of integrated approaches to strategy development will help organisations to effectively manage their workforce in times of war and ensure the functioning of their organisations.

음양을 모티브로 이용한 태권도 격파용 도복 개발

Background/Objectives: Taekwondo, which originated in Korea, is a traditional martial art and sport that uses hands and feet to attack and defend. Uniforms specialized for Poomsae, Kyorugi, and Kyukpa can facilitate the use of techniques for each sport and reduce the risk of injury; however, except for the Kyorugi uniform, they are not further subdivided. This study develops the Kyukpa uniforms as they provide ease of movement and protection from injury, thereby leading to the globalization and popularization of Taekwondo. Methods: To develop 30 designs of Kyukpa uniforms and present virtual clothing using 3D CLO for four of these selected by fashion and Taekwondo experts, in-depth interviews were conducted based on theoretical research. After analysis, the final two sets were selected and produced. After producing the final two sets, this research proceeded by checking the ease of movement through a movement test with a Taekwondo player. Results: The final two sets of Kyukpa uniforms were selected and designed. It was a good compromise between a strong contrast and trendiness expressed through differentiated design and color while still keeping tradition in mind the terms of external aspects. The fitting evaluation and movement evaluation ensured that the uniforms were comfortable for movement and techniques. Conclusion/Implications: This study proposes a design approach that combines athleticism and reimagining the uniforms for each Taekwondo event. By specializing in Kyukpa uniforms with functionality, modern sophistication, and the symbolic elements of Taekwondo, we can significantly contribute to the global promotion and widespread adoption of this form of martial art.

Methodology of Scientific Cognizance

Methodology in scientific research is essential. Each science has its own object, and different methodologies cause and result in different perceptions. Science is human life, however, science becomes metaphysical theory because it is conditioned by the methodology of philosophy or mathematics. Philosophy and mathematics are theoretical sciences, which makes the related sciences dream, ideal, and science fantasy. The helplessness of science becomes man's misfortune, science becomes alien to man. True science begins with real people living, that is human science. Human science becomes the methodology in the study of related sciences. When studying the outside world, people uphold the principles of objectivity, comprehensiveness, development, specific history, and research practice. When studying life, the perceived object begins to die from the real person, in the process, people always create possibilities and needs. The transformation between abilities, needs means and goals makes life rich and diverse. Humans are both subjects and objects of scientific research. The interdisciplinary sciences have in common that they take human activities as research objects.

Personnel development under digital economy conditions

Personnel development under digital economy conditions

Initial psychological assistance for military servants with symptoms of acute stress disorder

Purpose The purpose of this study is to determine the psychological features of providing initial psychotherapeutic assistance to victims, in particular to military servants. Design/methodology/approach Theoretical analysis of scientific works; observation of servicemen in hospital conditions; conversations with servicemen and doctors; and interviews with foreign colleagues. Findings As a result of theoretical and empirical research, it was found that initial psychological assistance is more effective if it is provided in a timely and comprehensive manner in cooperation with medical assistance, if the recommended exercises are performed systematically by the victim and if a certain algorithm for providing initial psychotherapeutic assistance is used. Originality/value The authors present their own algorithm for providing initial psychological assistance to military servants: psychophysiological stabilization; adjustment of emotional balance; restoration of cognitive processes and acquisition of constructive coping strategies; and formation of life meanings that provide an opportunity to survive the crisis period of life. In this paper, the authors also note the importance of providing psychological first aid to victims of extreme situations in a timely manner, which helps reduce the intensity of symptoms of acute stress disorder and reduces the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Enhancing students’ motivation in studying mathematics disciplines: The effectiveness of applying contextual and gaming technologies

Introduction. Russian and international research investigations conducted on the problem of using game and contextual technologies in education have proven their effectiveness in obtaining certain knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as developing logical thinking. However, previous works have not suggested effective interactive game and contextual trainings that teach teamwork, improve communication skills and increase students’ interest in studying the subject. The aim of this article is to investigate the effectiveness of using contextual and game technologies in enhancing students’ motivation to studying mathematics disciplines. Materials and Methods. The research was conducted using the following methods: review and analysis of international and Russian scholarly literature on the research problem, tests, questionnaires, educational experiments. Results. The authors studied and analysed Russian and international scholarly literature and conducted theoretical and methodological research. The analysis of test results revealed that the knowledge obtained by means of contextual techniques and games contributes to enhancing motivation to studying mathematics disciplines. The analysis of the survey data showed that technologies are useful in learning, develop logical and analytical thinking, help to develop cognitive abilities, curiosity, attention and intelligence, as well as the ability to acquire knowledge independently. It is emphasized that practice-oriented tasks developed by the authors, aimed at integrating mathematical principles into real situations and problems in various fields of knowledge, facilitate the development of professional competences in future professionals. The authors note that the results of using the developed educational tools were tested in academic groups where the authors conducted practical classes. Conclusions. The article concludes about the effectiveness of using contextual and game learning techniques in developing logical and practice-oriented thinking and encouraging students to study mathematics disciplines.

Assessment of generic competences for foreign-language professional communication through applying the ADDIE model

Introduction. The paper aims to assess generic competencies for foreign-language professional communication formed through applying the ADDIE model. The goal of the study was to identify the way generic competencies are developed throughout the ESL course for veterinary students based on the authors’ implementation of the ADDIE model. Materials and Methods. The research was based on theoretical review of literature, comparative analysis of sources, terminological analysis, and investigation of teaching practices. The ADDIE method of instructional modeling was used as a fundamental research approach taken to designing a teaching aid and developing a training course, respectively. While testing, a sample of 59 first-year veterinary students and 5 lecturers of the Foreign Language Department at Omsk State Agrarian University were involved. In order to collect and study the research data, the authors applied the following evaluation methods: observation, survey and testing of students. The academic outcomes were evaluated by examining dynamics of foreign language communicative competence by expert teachers. The Wilcoxon T-test and Fisher test were used as mathematical statistics methods. Results. The authors applied the ADDIE instructional model to design a professional communication course in English for veterinary students based on competency-based approach. The materials were delivered during the 2022-23 academic year. The learning outcomes demonstrated by participants in the control and experimental groups proved the effectiveness of the author's teaching procedure in the formation of generic competencies for foreign language professional communication, the validity of which was confirmed using mathematical statistics methods. Conclusions. The proposed technology for designing a foreign language course based on the ADDIE model has demonstrated its effectiveness in the development of generic competencies for foreign-language professional communication, which was confirmed by more pronounced positive dynamics in the experimental group.

Ascorbic Acid‐derived New Polymer Spheres via Ternary Copolymerization for Highly Effective Activation of B Cells

AbstractLymphocytes are crucial to defend against harmful pathogens and sustain adaptive immunity. Developing immunomodulating materials to activate lymphocytes is imperative to induce effective and enduring immune responses. Here, a new polymer serving as a highly efficient activator of B cells is reported and corresponding polymer spheres are synthesized through a droplet‐assisted ternary copolymerization process of ascorbic acid, ethylenediamine, and glyoxal. In‐depth studies are conducted on the polymerization mechanisms and polymer spheres ranging from 250 to 1200 nm with various surface functional groups are synthesized. These prepared polymer materials exhibit remarkable immunomodulatory functions correlated to the polymer spheres' size and surface functional groups, and effective activations on B cells are observed in vivo and in vitro. Through cell phagocytosis experiments and RNA sequencing analysis, it is proposed that the selective phagocytosis of B cells and the presence of CD21 on the B cell membrane contribute to the activation of B cells. This work has extended the realm of immunological research from a unique perspective of chemical synthesis, further substantiating the fundamental research and application potential of designing immunomodulating polymers.

The Impact of Green Mergers and Acquisitions on Corporate Environmental Performance: Evidence from China’s Heavy-Polluting Industries

This study examined the impact of green mergers and acquisitions (green M&As) on corporate environmental performance. Applying the Differences-in-Differences (DID) model to a sample of Chinese heavy-polluting-industry companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2010 to 2022, our study results show that the adoption of green M&As by the listed Chinese heavy polluters can lower corporate environmental capital expenditure and significantly improve corporate environmental performance. Meanwhile, the positive effects of green M&As on environmental performance are also found to be stronger for state-owned enterprises, young enterprises, and enterprises located in areas with low financial investments in energy efficiency and environmental protection, according to a heterogeneity study conducted for this paper. The analysis of mediating effects shows that the green M&A of heavily polluting firms will have a catalytic effect on the improvement of firms’ environmental performance by promoting their green technological innovation and, in turn, their environmental performance. Furthermore, the moderating effect analysis demonstrates that the quality of the firm’s internal controls and the CEO’s prior environmental experience are both factors that can support the beneficial impact of green M&A on the enhancement of the firm’s environmental performance. This paper enriches the theoretical research system of green M&A and green investment driving mechanisms, and at the same time provides empirical support and strategic reference for the green strategy decision of heavy-polluting enterprises.

Internal Management Strategy of Chinese Internet Enterprises and Business Performance: A Study of Tencent Internet Enterprises in China

The objective of this research is to examine the relationship between the internal management strategy of Chinese internet enterprises and business performance. The research results in the fields of business models and innovations, internet business models and their innovation theories and practices, and business ethics are analyzed and discussed, while the internet development process of China is reviewed. Then, the existing problems are analyzed, and the concerned field and concepts in this study are clarified. Based on previous theoretical research and market research, the research methodology is designed, the research hypotheses are proposed, and the research models are constructed to perform quantitative and qualitative research. Next, the cases of Baidu, Alibaba and Tencent are engaged to conduct empirical analysis and verify the conclusions. The correlation analysis show that the impact on corporate financial performance is positive when social responsibility to shareholders, creditors, users, and government is undertaken, which is consistent with the original hypothesis. However, fulfilling social responsibility to employees and suppliers is significantly and negatively related to financial performance, which is inconsistent with the original hypothesis. Therefore, companies should take a long-term perspective and not just see short-term benefits at the expense of long-term social benefits. Companies pay attention to and carry out a series of social responsibility activities can establish stable emotional ties with the public, so that the company can gain the support and trust of many parties in society, and can enhance market competitiveness and bring good development opportunities, thus improving the viability of the company and increasing social and economic value for the company

What Elements Really Intercalate into Pd Lattice When Heated in Dimethylformamide?

Palladium hydrides (PdHx) are pivotal in both fundamental research and practical applications across a wide spectrum. PdHx nanocrystals, synthesized by heating in dimethylformamide (DMF), exhibit remarkable stability, granting them widespread applications in the field of electrocatalysis. However, this stability appears inconsistent with their metastable nature. The substantial challenges in characterizing nanoscale structures contribute to the limited understanding of this anomalous phenomenon. Here, through a series of well-conceived experimental designs and advanced characterization techniques, including aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (AC-STEM), in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD), and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS), we have uncovered evidence that indicates the presence of C and N within the lattice of Pd (PdCxNy), rather than H (PdHx). By combining theoretical calculations, we have thoroughly studied the potential configurations and thermodynamic stability of PdCxNy, demonstrating a 2.5:1 ratio of C to N infiltration into the Pd lattice. Furthermore, we successfully modulated the electronic structure of Pd nanocrystals through C and N doping, enhancing their catalytic activity in methanol oxidation reactions. This breakthrough provides a new perspective on the structure and composition of Pd-based nanocrystals infused with light elements, paving the way for the development of advanced catalytic materials in the future.

Experimental realization of three types of acoustic localized states at topological interface

Wave localization has been the subject of extensive investigation due to its crucial importance in both applied and fundamental research. In particular, the focus has shifted to topologically protected states and flatband states. Here, we develop an acoustic topological heterostructure with one dispersive band and one flatband. In the bandgap, there is one topological state and two defect states. Drawing on this topological heterostructure, we combine three different types of wave localization and realize the flatband bound states, topological interface state, and defect states in both theory and experiment. Then, we examine how the localization of these three types of localized states varies with respect to the local coupling coefficient κBI. Our findings indicate that the topological interface state is robust in relationship to local parameter κBI, while two defect states are strongly influenced by this parameter. As for the flatband states, their eigenfrequencies are unaffected by parameter κBI, but the flatband bound state around the topological interface is dependent on this parameter. Additionally, by modifying the excitation conditions, three types of localized states can be transformed into each other. Leveraging the advantages of the localization of different types of localized states, our proposal represents a significant advancement in the potential applications of acoustic sensors and filters.

Carbene Footprinting Directs Design of Genetically Encoded Proximity-Reactive Protein Binders.

Genetically encoding proximal-reactive unnatural amino acids (PrUaas), such as fluorosulfate-l-tyrosine (FSY), into natural proteins of interest (POI) confer the POI with the ability to covalently bind to its interacting proteins (IPs). The PrUaa-incorporated POIs hold promise for blocking undesirable POI-IP interactions. Selecting appropriate PrUaa anchor sites is crucial, but it remains challenging with the current methodology, which heavily relies on crystallography to identify the proximal residues between the POIs and the IPs for the PrUaa anchorage. To address the challenge, here, we propose a footprinting-directed genetically encoded covalent binder (footprinting-GECB) approach. This approach employs carbene footprinting, a structural mass spectrometry (MS) technique that quantifies the extent of labeling of the POI following the addition of its IP, and thus identifies the responsive residues. By genetically encoding PrUaa into these responsive sites, POI variants with covalent bonding ability to its IP can be produced without the need for crystallography. Using the POI-IP model, KRAS/RAF1, we showed that engineering FSY at the footprint-assigned KRAS residue resulted in a KRAS variant that can bind irreversibly to RAF1. Additionally, we inserted FSY at the responsive residue in RAF1 upon footprinting the oncogenic KRASG12D/RAF1, which lacks crystal structure, and generated a covalent binder to KRASG12D. Together, we demonstrated that by adopting carbene footprinting to direct PrUaa anchorage, we can greatly expand the opportunities for designing covalent protein binders for PPIs without relying on crystallography. This holds promise for creating effective PPI inhibitors and supports both fundamental research and biotherapeutics development.

Ligand-based drug design against Herpes Simplex Virus-1 capsid protein by modification of limonene through in silico approaches

The pharmacological effects of limonene, especially their derivatives, are currently at the forefront of research for drug development and discovery as well and structure-based drug design using huge chemical libraries are already widespread in the early stages of therapeutic and drug development. Here, various limonene derivatives are studied computationally for their potential utilization against the capsid protein of Herpes Simplex Virus-1. Firstly, limonene derivatives were designed by structural modification followed by conducting a molecular docking experiment against the capsid protein of Herpes Simplex Virus-1. In this research, the obtained molecular docking score exhibited better efficiency against the capsid protein of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 and hence we conducted further in silico investigation including molecular dynamic simulation, quantum calculation, and ADMET analysis. Molecular docking experiment has documented that Ligands 02 and 03 had much better binding affinities (− 7.4 kcal/mol and − 7.1 kcal/mol) to capsid protein of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 than Standard Acyclovir (− 6.5 kcal/mol). Upon further investigation, the binding affinities of primary limonene were observed to be slightly poor. But including the various functional groups also increases the affinities and capacity to prevent viral infection of the capsid protein of Herpes Simplex Virus-1. Then, the molecular dynamic simulation confirmed that the mentioned ligands might be stable during the formation of drug-protein complexes. Finally, the analysis of ADMET was essential in establishing them as safe and human-useable prospective chemicals. According to the present findings, limonene derivatives might be a promising candidate against the capsid protein of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 which ultimately inhibits Herpes Simplex Virus-induced encephalitis that causes interventions in brain inflammation. Our findings suggested further experimental screening to determine their practical value and utility.

The Information Technology (IT) Infrastructure of the Multicenter Archipelago of Ovarian Cancer Research Biobank: A Potential Blueprint for Other Biobanks.

Objective: Biobanks play a crucial role in fundamental and translational research by storing valuable biomaterials and data for future analyses. However, the design of their information technology (IT) infrastructures is often customized to specific requirements, thereby lacking the ability to be used for biobanks comprising other (types of) diseases. This results in substantial costs, time, and efforts for each new biobank project. The Dutch multicenter Archipelago of Ovarian Cancer Research (AOCR) biobank has developed an innovative, reusable IT infrastructure capable of adaptation to various biobanks, thereby enabling cost-effective and efficient implementation and management of biobank IT systems. Methods and Results: The AOCR IT infrastructure incorporates preexisting biobank software, mainly managed by Health-RI. The web-based registration tool Ldot is used for secure storage and pseudonymization of patient data. Clinicopathological data are retrieved from the Netherlands Cancer Registry and the Dutch nationwide pathology databank (Palga), both established repositories, reducing administrative workload and ensuring high data quality. Metadata of collected biomaterials are stored in the OpenSpecimen system. For digital pathology research, a hematoxylin and eosin-stained slide from each patient's tumor is digitized and uploaded to Slide Score. Furthermore, adhering to the Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) principles, genomic data derived from the AOCR samples are stored in cBioPortal. Conclusion: The IT infrastructure of the AOCR biobank represents a new standard for biobanks, offering flexibility to handle diverse diseases and types of biomaterials. This infrastructure bypasses the need for disease-specific, custom-built software, thereby being cost- and time-effective while ensuring data quality and legislative compliance. The adaptability of this infrastructure highlights its potential to serve as a blueprint for the development of IT infrastructures in both new and existing biobanks.

Assessing the Feasibility of Establishing special Economic Zones: Geo-economic Mapping Method

The purpose of the study is to systematize factors of successful and sustainable functioning of special economic zones, as well as to develop tools to map of zones on a map of a country with the competitive advantages of individual territories identified therein in order to make recommendations for improving the zonal policy. The relevance of the study is due to the fact that in the context of global shocks, a special preferential regime, flexible governance models of special economic zones are not determinants of their successful application in order to promote national investment strategies. The geo-economic advantages of the territories within which the special economic zones operate come to the fore. Such advantages are the basis for the formation of poles of economic, commercial, industrial and innovative growth. The use of methods of theoretical (analysis, synthesis, generalization) and empirical (comparison, measurement) research allowed the authors to reveal the content of effects associated with the functioning of special zones, to highlight the problems of their measurement; to generalize the features of preferential regimes of Russia; to systematize the geo-economic factors of successful and sustainable operation of special zones. The method of geo-economic mapping was used to identify the correspondence between the competitive advantages of territories and special zones created within their borders. As a result, it is proposed to classify key geo-economic factors that determine the potential successful functioning of special zones into three groups: spatial, economic and organizational. These groups of factors, according to the authors, should be considered in terms of formation and retention of geo-economic advantages: general, caused by public management and specialized. The method of geo-economic mapping identifies regions whose special zones correspond to the level of development of the identified geo-economic advantages, as well as those whose conditions are most likely not to maximize the effect of the special zones localized in their territory. It is recommended to establish a system for monitoring the conformity of specialization of regions with the profile of special economic zones established within their borders.

Does Interest Rate Impact Economic Growth? Empirical Insight from Nepal

Background: The relationship between interest rates, inflation, and non-performing loans on economic growth is debated in theoretical and empirical research. Hence, the study examines the effect of interest rate, inflation rate, and non-performing loans on the economic growth in Nepal. Methods: The paper incorporated quarterly data spanning nine years (2011-2019) and consisted of 972 observations. The study collected secondary data from the official websites of Nepal Rastra Bank and the Ministry of Finance, Nepal. The study used a panel cointegration test and random-effect models to examine the long-run relationship between predictor and response variables. Results: The impact of lending rate (LR) on economic growth is positive and statistically significant (β1 = 0.017, p < .01) in Nepal. Similarly, the coefficient of LNCPI (β2 = 0.687, p < .01) suggests that there is a positive relationship between the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The regression coefficient of CPI (β3 = -.001, p > .05) suggests that an increase in non-performing loans (NPL) led to a decrease in GDP. However, this relationship was not statistically significant for the Nepalese Economy. Conclusion: The study concludes that the interest and inflation rates positively affect Nepal's economic growth. The findings indicate that policymakers, such as Nepal Rastra Bank, should maintain interest rates at an appropriate level. Novelty: This study is novel because it thoroughly analyzes numerous observations over long periods to investigate the impacts of loan rates, inflation rates, and non-performing loans on economic growth in Nepal, improving its generalizability.

Thermally Evaporated Metal Halide Perovskites and Their Analogues: Film Fabrication, Applications and Beyond.

Metal halide perovskites emerge as promising semiconductors for optoelectronic devices due to ease of fabrication, attractive photophysical properties, their low cost, highly tunable material properties, and high performance. High-quality thin films of metal halide perovskites are the basis of most of these applications including solar cells, light-emitting diodes, photodetectors, and electronic memristors. A typical fabrication method for perovskite thin films is the solution method, which has several limitations in device reproducibility, adverse environmental impact, and utilization of raw materials. Thermal evaporation holds great promise in addressing these bottlenecks in fabricating high-quality halide perovskite thin films. It also has high compatibility with mass-production platforms that are well-established in industries. This review first introduces the basics of the thermal evaporation method with a particular focus on the critical parameters influencing the thin film deposition. The research progress of the fabrication of metal halide perovskite thin films is further summarized by different thermal evaporation approaches and their applications in solar cells and other optoelectronic devices. Finally, research challenges and future opportunities for both fundamental research and commercialization are discussed.