International System Research Articles

Comparison of tissue biomarkers between non-schistosoma and schistosoma-associated urothelial carcinoma

BackgroundHigh-grade urothelial carcinoma either non-Schistosoma (NS-UBC) or Schistosoma (S-UBC)-associated is the tenth cause of death worldwide and represents a serious therapeutic problem. AimEvaluation of the immmunohistochemical expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), programmed cell death protein-1 (PDL1), estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) and UroplakinIII, in the high-grade in NS-UBC and S-UBC as potential prognostic and therapeutic targets analyzed through estimation of area percentage, optical density and international pathological scoring system for each marker. Material and methodsSixty high grade urothelial carcinoma cases were enrolled in the study (30 cases of NS-UBC and 30 cases of S-UBC). The cases were immunohistochemically-assessed for TNFα, EGFR, PDL1, ERα and Uroplakin III expression. In S-UBC, parasite load was also evaluated for correlation with the immunohistochemical markers’ expression in S-UBC. ResultsThe area percentage of immune-expression of TNFα and EGFR was higher in S-UBC compared to NS-UBC. On the other hand, the NS-UBC displayed statistically-higher expression of PDL1 and uroplakinIII (p-value <0.001). ERα revealed higher, yet, non-significant expressions in S-UBC compared to NS-UBC (p-value =0.459). PDL1 expression showed the most superior record regarding area percentage (64.6± 34.5). Regarding optical density, TNF-α showed the highest transmittance expression (2.4 ± 0.9). EGFR positively correlated with PDL1 in S-UBC (r= 0.578, p-value =0.001) whereas in NS-UBC, TNFα and PDL1 (r=0.382, p-value=0.037) had positive correlation. Schistosoma eggs in tissues oppose uroplakin III expression and trigger immunomodulation via PDL1. ConclusionDue to lower UroplakinIII expression, S-UBC is supposed to have a poorer prognosis. Hormonal therapy is not hypothesized due to a very minimal ERα expression in both NS-UBC and S-UBC. Regarding immunotherapy, anti-TNF-α is suggested for S-UBC whilst in NS-UBC, blockading PDL1 might be useful. Targeted EGFR therapy seems to carry emphasized outcomes in S-UBC. Correlations encourage combined immune therapy in NS-UBC; nevertheless, in S-UBC, combined anti-EGFR and PDL1 seem to be of benefit.

Феномен долларового парадокса и его роль в трансформации современной мировой валютно-финансовой системы

Currently, fundamental transformations are occurring within the global monetary-financial system. Contrary to the prevalent belief in the decline of the dollar, this article seeks to demonstrate that the American currency exhibits adaptive properties, which solidify its position in the international financial system, albeit possibly at a lower level. The experiences of other countries in promoting their national currencies in the international exchange, trade, and investment systems indicate that all such attempts yield varying degrees of success. Regarding the life cycle of foreign currencies, they initially establish themselves rapidly, increasing their share in operations, but then quickly encounter a natural limit and retract within their respective countries. Conclusion dwells upon the fact that the dollar primarily serves as the currency of developing countries, as they predominantly accumulate it. However, the sheer number of these states renders the probability of diversifying risks through potential alliances in the monetary-financial sphere against the dollar practically negligible, with rare exceptions such as the BRICS countries.

Evaluating Diagnostic Clarity: The Comparative Efficacy of BlueStain in Serous Effusion Cytology under the International System for Reporting Serous Fluid Cytopathology Reporting Framework.

This section provides details on the cohort of 237 patients with serous effusions, the ethical approval process, sample collection, and staining procedures with BlueStain, Papanicolaou, and Giemsa. It also describes the microscopic evaluation criteria, scoring system, and statistical methods used to compare the stains. BlueStain demonstrated notable performance, particularly in identifying malignant cells, presenting a competitive alternative to the Papanicolaou stain, which, despite higher quality indices in other categories, requires more resources and time. The study revealed that BlueStain might offer a valuable balance between quality and efficiency, especially in cases where rapid diagnostic turnaround is essential. Our findings suggest that BlueStain is a viable staining method in the context of serous effusions, capable of providing detailed cytomorphological analysis. While traditional stains hold their place for their established diagnostic clarity, BlueStain offers a rapid and resource-optimized alternative. The absence of definitive diagnostic criteria in the atypical category and the inherent sample heterogeneity underscores the necessity for adaptable staining methods like BlueStain. The study highlights the potential trade-offs between detail and practicality in staining techniques, advocating for further research into innovative methods that do not compromise diagnostic precision for cost and time efficiency.

THE REPERCUSSIONS OF THE RUSSIAN-UKRAINIAN CRISIS ON THE FUTURE OF THE INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM

Beginning with Ukraine's announcement on February 24th that Moscow would start a military operation in its territory, this study examines the current crisis in Ukraine from the perspectives of its causes and the consequences it will have on the future of the current international system. Moscow took a step to raise world concern and fear on February 24th when Kyiv announced that Moscow had begun military operations with a ground invasion of its lands. The previous day, the presidents of Donetsk and Luhansk had asked the Russian president to intervene and protect them from Ukrainian forces. Russia and NATO have been exchanging remarks and threats for some time, and now a confrontation in Ukraine is a distinct possibility. Following this unexpected move, there were analyses and guesses regarding the future of the international system and, by extension, the entire planet. Considering Russia's history of nuclear threats, including the most recent remark by the Russian president that alerts the country's nuclear deterrent forces, this is particularly true. As of this writing, the situation has not been resolved, and it occasionally shows signs of quiet before escalating again

ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ БРИТАНСЬКИХ СИСТЕМ ВИМІРЮВАННЯ В БУДІВНИЦТВІ ТА ЇХ ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ НА ДОРОЖНІХ ОБ’ЄКТАХ В УКРАЇНІ

Introduction. The article provides an overview of international measurement systems for works and services on the example of Great Britain, the peculiarities of their application, the main advantages and disadvantages. Using the example of the Standard Method of Measurement in Civil Engineering (CESMM), the article discusses how such systems can contribute to accurate measurements, time and resource savings in road construction. The experience of applying CESMM4 on road facilities in Ukraine is also considered. Problem statement. In construction in general, the use of international measurement systems is crucial for optimizing processes and improving the quality of project implementation. According to the requirements of the modern construction sector, the ability to generate bill of quantities (BoQ) according to international standards defines a new stage in the planning and implementation of construction projects. The use of international measurement systems allows not only to standardize the scope of work and services but also ensures objectivity in the preparation of tender proposals. Obtaining information on the scope of work without prices according to international standards guarantees equality and objectivity in the evaluation and selection of a contractor. This approach also helps to unify communication between all participants in the construction process, which, in turn, increases the level of mutual understanding and promotes the implementation of modern technologies and best practices. However, today there is no clarity on the detailed measurement and description of construction works, as even within one country there are a number of systems for measuring works and services.

China’s Ukraine Policy: Unchanged Rhetoric Despite Changing Conjuncture

This article discusses China’s approach to the Ukraine crisis and the factors that shape China’s attitude to this situation in the comparative timelines of the 2014 and 2022 crises. Despite the changes in China’s security perceptions and the balance of power in the international system, China’s rhetoric about the ongoing Ukraine crisis has vague rhetoric similar to the crisis in 2014. While China regards the 2014 Ukraine crisis as a regional crisis, it sees the recent situation as a crisis with global effects. China’s approach to the Ukraine crisis, which is on its way to becoming a global power, is shaped within the framework of multiple contradictory parameters. First, at the discursive level, the ‘five principles of peaceful coexistence’ have formed the discursive framework of Chinese foreign policy since the 1950s. Second, the rapidly developing China–Russia relations after the Cold War, and third, the increasing threat China perceives from the United States, which it sees as a global hegemonic power, and in this context, its global policies. As a result, it is possible to define China’s approach to the Ukraine crisis as passively pro-Russian.

The Situation of Freight Transport and Other Logistics Tasks in Laos

This study aims to analyse the obstacles and constraints in the shipping and logistics in Laos, a landlocked nation in Southeast Asia. Transportation and logistics play a pivotal role in Laos' national economy, acting as the lifeblood for the movement of goods and materials within the country and linking it to the international trade system. This case study highlights the significance of a robust logistics structure for Laos and its essential role in fostering economic development, agricultural growth, and connectivity. It also underscores the challenges faced by the country's logistics sector, such as limited-service frequency and road safety concerns. The study examines Laos transportation infrastructure, encompassing road, rail, and air networks, and sheds light on the obstacles and disparities that hinder value chain development in the country. These issues include disconnected stakeholder participation, the aging vehicle fleet, and financial limitations. Furthermore, the essay emphasizes the need for improved interconnectivity and inter-mobility to enhance the national, regional, and international connectivity of Laos and similar landlocked developing countries in Asia.

Wojna rosyjsko-ukraińska na forum Organizacji Narodów Zjednoczonych – debaty i działania w pierwszym okresie agresji

Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine, which began in February 2022, poses a huge challenge to the activities of the United Nations in performing its basic function, which is to ensure global peace. The outbreak of this war itself can be considered a failure of UN preventive diplomacy, while the reactions to this event at the UN forum allow us to point out its strengths and weaknesses. They combine three elements: the practical effectiveness of the Organization and its specialized agencies in responding to the war crisis (humanitarian aid, support for refugees, agreement on grain exports through the Black Sea), the ability to politically mobilize the vast majority of member states in defense of the basic assumptions of the United Nations Charter expressed in the resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the internal deadlock related to the veto power of the aggressor state in the Security Council, paralyzing its decision-making process. This article outlines the fields of analysis of the impact of the first months of the Russian aggression against Ukraine in 2022 on events at the UN forum, as a case study indicating the current condition of the international system, defined as an order built on a community of rules expressed in the Charter of the United Nations (rule-based international order).

Realpolitik in Global Governance: Understanding the Competing Realist and Cosmopolitan Narratives of the Nineteenth Century Era of International Law

Realpolitik in Global Governance: Understanding the Competing Realist and Cosmopolitan Narratives of the Nineteenth Century Era of International Law

Fractioned-pattern radiation mapping, Part II: assessment

In Part I, the authors proposed a theoretical background for predicting the radiation distribution in any optical system based on decomposing the emitting source power. Here, we describe the validity of this decomposition through a practical example that uses a radiating source and a single surface optical system. This source is calibrated in a metrology testbed that guarantees its traceability to the candela (cd), the International System (SI) base unit for luminous intensity I v . A second example, this time numerical, shows the method’s performance in a multisurface optical system.

The US-China Rivalry in Latin America After 2000

Since the 2000s, the rivalry between the United States and China has been generally perceived as a threat to American hegemony in the international system. Alongside Asia, Latin America has turned into one of the battlefields of geostrategic rivalry. China has been steadily increasing its influence and presence in the region where the US has regarded as its backyard since the declaration of the "Monroe Doctrine". The US has taken some actions to deter China from having a more influential position in the region. China is being considered as a political and economic alternative to the US by Latin American countries. The main argument of this study is that China has gained an undeniable footprint in Latin America thanks to its long-term, well-planned policies; Beijing can use its growing influence in the region as leverage in case of a conflict with the US in the South-Asia area within the context of a hegemonic war.

Problematic aspects of the influence of the legal system on social phenomena

The article examines the problem of the interaction of law with other social phenomena. On the one hand, law can be used to protect other social phenomena, such as moral norms, economic interests, cultural values, and on the other hand, social phenomena can influence the formation of legal norms and law and order in society. An important aspect of research is the interaction of legal norms with such social phenomena as politics, economy, culture, morality, and others, as well as the influence of legal norms on social reality and the interaction of various aspects of society’s life. The article examines the problem of the correlation of legal policy with certain social phenomena, and also determines the role of law in the formation of social reality. In addition, the author investigates the problem of regulation of social phenomena by the norms of national and international law in the context of social phenomena. Understanding the relationship between law and various social phenomena is important for the development of legal policy in the conditions of constantly changing social realities. Studying the relationship between law and other social phenomena allows us to understand the causes of such conflicts and find ways to solve problems. Understanding the relationship between law and social phenomena is important for the effective functioning of the legal system, ensuring the protection of human rights and freedoms, the development of international law and legal awareness. Knowledge of this interaction helps to understand trends in the development of law as a social phenomenon, as well as social phenomena as components of law. Also, understanding the relationship between law and other social phenomena is important for the development of the international legal system and the implementation of international legal cooperation. In connection with the growth of globalization and international cooperation, there is a need for the development of international law and legal instruments that regulate relations between different states and international organizations. Understanding legal norms and their relationship with social phenomena contributes to the formation of a high legal culture in society and ensuring the protection of human rights and freedoms.

Predictive Model for Medical Assistance

Medical tourism has emerged as a prominent global healthcare phenomenon, driven by various factors such as cost differentials, quality of care, and accessibility. The first aspect of medical tourism is the transnational use of healthcare services, which is frequently driven by financial savings and shortened wait times. Patients from high-income nations frequently go to less expensive locations for elective surgery, while people from low-income nations may look overseas for cutting-edge medical care due to a lack of local healthcare infrastructure. Patients who choose medical tourism locations do so because of the high quality of the care they receive. Patients are enticed to particular locations by accredited healthcare facilities and highly trained medical personnel. However, maintaining uniform quality across many healthcare systems is still difficult. The economic impact on the countries of origin and destination makes up the third aspect of medical tourism. Through higher healthcare sector income, tourism-related activities, and job creation, medical tourism can promote economic growth in destination nations. On the other hand, source nations could experience issues with the distribution of healthcare resources and the "brain drain" of medical specialists. The relevance of ethical considerations in medical travel cannot be overstated. To preserve the credibility of medical tourism, issues relating to informed consent, patient safety, and the equal distribution of healthcare resources must be properly addressed. The COVID-19 pandemic's effects on international travel and healthcare systems are just a few of the aspects that are taken into account in this abstract while discussing the future of medical tourism. It emphasises the necessity of international cooperation to create uniform policies, rules, and moral frameworks that guarantee the safety of patients taking part in medical tourism.

Safety and efficacy evaluation of Simo decoction and Arecae semen in herbal medicine practice

ObjectiveThe traditional Chinese patent medicine (TCPM), Simo decoction (Simo decoction oral solution), with its primary ingredient Arecae semen (Binglang, Areca catechu L.), known for its potential carcinogenic effects, is the subject of this study. The research aims to analyze the effectiveness and potential risks of Simo decoction, particularly as a carcinogen, and to suggest a framework for evaluating the risks and benefits of other herbal medicines. MethodsThe study is based on post-marketing research of Simo decoction and Arecae semen. It utilized a wide range of sources, including ancient and modern literature, focusing on the efficacy and safety of Simo decoction. The research includes retrospective data on the sources, varieties, and toxicological studies of Arecae semen from databases such as Pubmed, Clinical Trials, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WHO-UMC Vigibase, and China National Center for ADR Monitoring. ResultsCommon adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with Simo decoction include skin rash, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. However, no studies exist reporting the severe ADRs, such as carcinogenic effects. Arecae semen is distributed across approximately 60 varieties in tropical Asia and Australia. According to the WHO-UMC Vigibase and the National Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring System databases, there are currently no reports of toxicity related to Arecae semen in the International System for Classification of ADRs (ISCR) or clinical studies. ConclusionRisk-benefit analysis in TCPM presents more challenges compared to conventional drugs. The development of a practical pharmacovigilance system and risk-benefit analysis framework is crucial for marketing authorization holders, researchers, and regulatory bodies. This approach is vital for scientific supervision and ensuring the safety and efficacy of drug applications, thus protecting public health.

Linking Seismic Measurements to the International System of Units

AbstractThe current state of the art in the calibration of seismometers is given by internal calibration procedures which give only incomplete information about a seismometer’s response and are based on transfer functions supplied by manufacturers. Calibrations traceable to the International System of Units (SI) provide an independent and comprehensible characterization of seismometers. These calibrations take part in a laboratory using an electrodynamic shaker or shake table. To overcome the issue that seismometers placed in seismic stations are not supposed to be moved to a calibration laboratory, novel on-site calibration methods incorporating a reference seismometer were developed. Such a reference is placed near the sensor to be calibrated, and the transfer function of the seismometer under test can be derived based on the output of both sensors.

A Spectrum of Autonomy: Towards a Theoretical Framework of Strategic Autonomy

Despite the renewed significance and popularity of strategic autonomy in recent years, this term remains undertheorized. Current usage of the term makes it difficult to determine whether an actor is strategically autonomous or not, and whether a particular course of action enhances autonomy or decreases it. This article thus begins by tracing the intellectual history of strategic autonomy, and then by evaluating the way in which modern scholars use this term. Consequently, it advances a novel conceptualization of the term, arguing that instead of being a binary concept, strategic autonomy represents the highest level of autonomy on a full spectrum of autonomy. While providing a comprehensive theory of strategic autonomy is beyond the scope of this article, we offer some preliminary hypotheses on why the international system incentivizes actors to pursue strategic autonomy.

Modern Illegal Drug Business in Ukraine: Multidisciplinary Study of the System of Prevention and Countermeasures Against the Legalization of Income (Money Laundering) Obtained by Criminal Means

Established that the modern illegal drug trade is an integral part of transnational organized crime, involving the laundering of proceeds obtained through criminal activities. A comprehensive multidisciplinary study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Ukraine's efforts to combat the contemporary drug trade and to analyze the international system for preventing and countering the legalization of illicit income (money laundering). This study confirmed the connection between transnational organized crime and the laundering of money derived from the illegal trafficking of banned psychoactive substances. The research emphasized the critical need to enhance the criminal and legal frameworks, improve medical and pharmaceutical support, and expand social and economic assistance. By examining the global experience in combating organized crime and drug-related offenses, the study provided valuable insights into effective strategies. Particular attention was given to forensic pharmaceutical practices related to the detection of prohibited psychoactive substances and the legalization of income from their illicit trade. To address these challenges, the study recommends increasing the criminal liability for members of organized drug trafficking gangs and suggests specific amendments to articles 115, 305, and 307 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code. Furthermore, a detailed analysis of the European Union’s roadmap and international cooperation efforts in combating the illegal circulation of prohibited psychoactive substances and the laundering of illegal profits was conducted. Normative initiatives aimed at amending Article 209 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code were developed and proposed. The study indicated the importance of implementing the EU Roadmap measures in Ukraine to foster cooperation among various private and public institutions. This collaborative approach aims to coordinate joint actions, conduct research, and organize conferences and training sessions based on the EMCDDA European prevention program and UN initiatives. The study underscores the relevance, timeliness, and practical significance of engaging the international community, including scientists, medical professionals, pharmacists, students, the public, legal experts, law enforcement, and government authorities. Through this multidisciplinary approach, the study seeks to promote a more effective and coordinated response to the challenges posed by the modern drug trade and its associated criminal activities.

Examining China and Japan’s Narratives as Diplomatic Tools: Competitive Nature and International Influence

ABSTRACT In the new millennium, China and Japan have become eager to use narratives and discourses as diplomatic tools to manage external relations and enhance their international profiles. Although these trends have prompted research into the discourses and narratives of China and Japan, previous studies have not fully explored the competitive characteristics of the two states’ ideational visions. This article aims to unravel the nature and features of ideational competition between China and Japan by focusing on representative narratives in their diplomatic strategies. It argues that China has employed narratives as diplomatic tools for practical utility through integration with material capabilities, whereas Japan has disseminated narratives as part of its comprehensive external engagements, given its declining material capabilities. The narratives of China and Japan hold significant importance in the international system. Their effective use of narratives has a crucial impact on the western-dominated international discourse system, offering new perspectives to uphold an international order and global governance.

The Effect of the Fed Interest Rate Hikes on the Financial Crisis Evidence from Emerging Market Economices

The purpose of this paper is to systematically study the economic consequences of this policy adjustment by analysing in depth the five interest rate hike actions of the Federal Reserve and their chain reactions in emerging market economies, applying economic principles and methods. In particular, the central question of concern is whether the Fed's interest rate hiking policy constitutes an important trigger of the financial crisis in emerging markets. In order to shed light on this complex phenomenon in a comprehensive manner, this paper not only analyses in depth the macroeconomic logic behind the Fed's interest rate hike, but also explores its transmission mechanism in emerging market economies, as well as the economic vulnerability of these countries in the face of external shocks. The results of the study show that the collapse of emerging countries as a result of the Fed's interest rate hikes seems to be inevitable, but we can draw insights from it: actively promoting the reform of the international monetary system and supporting the inclusion of more types of currencies in the international trade and investment settlement system has become a common choice, including for some Western countries, as well as the need to continue to optimise the economic structure of the domestic economy and to strengthen the ability to manage and control the comprehensive risks.

China-Central and Eastern Europe Cooperation in a Divided World: Narratives and Scenarios

ABSTRACT China launched the 16 + 1 initiative 10 years ago to facilitate interaction and cooperation with the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The paper argues that the geopolitical landscape has dramatically changed since 2012 when the initiative was announced, and this seriously affects the possibilities for further deepening of the relations between the CEE countries and China. Nowadays, the world is deeply divided, with growing competition for influence and exacerbating relations not only between Russia and the West but also between China and the Western countries. The rising geopolitical confrontation between the major powers in the international system (in the current situation with the war in Ukraine) strongly affects China’s relations with the CEE countries. Applying the instruments of the geopolitical analysis, the paper will seek to explore the impact of the changing international environment on China’s engagement in Central and Eastern Europe and draw conclusions about the prospects of China–CEE cooperation.