Local Defense Research Articles

Strategic Localization for Ukraine's Defense Industry

Purpose: to evaluate the options for strategic localization for the defence industrial sector of Ukraine and to provide practical recommendations for the implementation of the policy. Method: comparative analysis, synthesis, and case studies. Findings: Rebuilding Ukraine’s degraded defence industry is vital for its long-term security and strategic interests, and a robust Ukrainian defence industry supports partner nation security interests as well. While continued foreign assistance remains essential in the short term, Ukraine needs to progressively localize repair, assembly, and repair capabilities for its most critical military equipment. Theoretical implications: The paper enhances our understanding of key concepts relating to the contributions of the local defence industry to the security of Ukraine, and how those industries can be developed to support the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The Russia-Ukraine war serves as a contemporary case study to explore these theories in practice. The paper provides new insights for understanding the practical application of the policy of localization. Value: Examining the practical implications of the policy of localization in Ukraine’s defence industry in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war involves understanding how these theories translate into real-world recommendations, both for Ukraine and for its international partners. that can contribute to the development and sustainment of Ukraine’s military capabilities. Research limitations: The classification of much information relating to Ukraine’s defence industry and defence capabilities, along with the contributions of international partners, forms a limitation on the scope and depth of the study.

The effect of 12-week high-dose Colostrum Bovinum supplementation on immunological, hematological and biochemical markers in endurance athletes: a randomized crossover placebo-controlled study.

Bovine colostrum (COL) is assumed to be one of the strongest natural immune stimulants. Regular ingestion of COL may contribute to improved immune response in athletes exposed to high training loads. Twenty-eight endurance-trained males aged 31.1 ± 10.2 years (body mass 81.9 ± 9.0kg; height 1.82 ± 0.06m) completed this randomized double-blind placebo(PLA)-controlled crossover study aimed at investigating the effect of 12-week COL supplementation (25gCOL·day-1) on resting (REST), exercise-induced (POST-EX), and short-term post-exercise recovery (REC; 1h after test exercise) changes in selected saliva and blood immunoglobulins (Ig), white blood cell (WBC) count and differential; as well as blood hematological, nutritional status and muscle damage indices. The protocol assumed 4 study visits - before/after supplementation with COL (COLPRE and COLPOST ) and PLA (PLAPRE and PLAPOST ). During testing sessions, incremental rowing test to exhaustion and swimming-specific performance test were introduced as exercise stimuli. At COLPOST visit the secretory IgA (SIgA) concentration in saliva was significantly higher at POST-EX and REC compared to REST (p<0.05). COL supplementation had no effect on blood IgA, IgE, IgD, IgG, and IgM concentrations. Furthermore, after COL supplementation decrease of hematocrit at REC (p<0.05) was revealed. 12-week supplementation with 25 gCOL·day-1 in endurance-trained male athletes resulted in a favorable increase in post-exercise concentration of salivary SIgA. COL seems to be a potential stimulator of local immune defense after exercise-induced homeostasis disturbances. Nevertheless, the lack of effect on blood markers indicates the need for further research in the area of mechanisms underlying the effect of the supposed COL immunological capacity.

Implementation Of Indonesia's Defence Economy Through The Defence Budget Sector

The implementation of military spending through the Indonesian defense industry has shown gradual positive development, driven by efforts to establish an independent defense sector. This study examines the role of Indonesia's defense budget in supporting national security and fostering economic growth, focusing on the collaboration between state-owned enterprises (BUMN) and private companies (BUMS). The defense budget is applied progressively to balance the country's limited resources and the relatively low level of external threats. Using a qualitative research method, this study analyzes data from relevant literature, reports, and policies to evaluate the impact of the defense budget on the Indonesian economy. The research explores key aspects such as the gradual development of defense equipment, the role of research and development (R&amp;D) in driving innovation, and the partnership between public and private sectors to strengthen the local defense industry. The results indicate that Indonesia's defense budget has steadily increased over the past decade, contributing to economic growth, particularly in the manufacturing and technology sectors. However, the overall impact on the economy remains mixed due to challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies and dependence on imported materials. The discussion highlights the potential for defense R&amp;D investments to generate spillover effects into civilian industries and recommends strategies to enhance the efficiency of defense spending. In conclusion, the implementation of defense economic policies has laid a strong foundation for the development of an independent defense industry in Indonesia. The study suggests that a gradual increase in defense spending, combined with strategic partnerships and innovation, can support both national security and economic stability in the long term

Correlation of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (Nec) on Radiology Examination of Plain Abdomen Photo and Ultrasonography (USG)

Introduction: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammatory condition caused by infectious agents with a background of immaturity of local defense mechanisms and hypoxic-ischemic damage to the intestinal mucosa. Plain abdominal radiography can be used to examine this condition. The results of diagnostic imaging of the neonatal gastrointestinal tract have relatively limited accuracy, and limit improvements in diagnostic efforts and determine the severity. The results of the examination can also be used with ultrasound. This study aims to analyze the correlation of NEC examination using plain radiography and ultrasound. Methods: This type of research uses a retrospective cohort study. The subjects of the study were 39 patients who underwent plain radiography and ultrasound examinations related to NEC conditions. The data source for this study is secondary data obtained through an intermediary media, namely PACS. The secondary data source for this study is data that has been recorded at the Radiology Installation of Hasan Sadikin Hospital in the period January 2023-June 2024. The Spearman correlation test was used to test the hypothesis of a correlation between NEC examinations using plain radiography and ultrasound. Results: The results of the Spearman correlation test showed no significant correlation between NEC examination using plain radiographs and USG with a correlation coefficient value of 0.138. The findings that can be taken from this study are that there is an increase in grade in patients who undergo USG examination. This finding proves the importance of conducting USG examination to confirm NEC conditions more accurately. Conclusion: There is no significant correlation between NEC examination using plain radiographs and USG. Examination using USG can confirm NEC more accurately, as evidenced by an increase in grade in 43.58% of study subjects.

SERKs serve as co-receptors for SYR1 to trigger systemin-mediated defense responses in tomato.

Systemin, the first peptide hormone identified in plants, was initially isolated from tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) leaves. Systemin mediates local and systemic wound-induced defense responses in plants, conferring resistance to necrotrophic fungi and herbivorous insects. Systemin is recognized by the leucine-rich-repeat receptor-like kinase (LRR-RLK) receptor SYSTEMIN RECEPTOR1 (SYR1), but how the systemin recognition signal is transduced to intracellular signaling pathways to trigger defense responses is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that SERK family LRR-RLKs function as co-receptors for SYR1 to mediate systemin signal transduction in tomato. By using chemical genetic approaches coupled with engineered receptors, we revealed that the association of the cytoplasmic kinase domains of SYR1 with SERKs leads to their mutual trans-phosphorylation and the activation of SYR1, which in turn induces a wide range of defense responses. Systemin stimulates the association between SYR1 and all tomato SERKs (SlSERK1, SlSERK3A, and SlSERK3B). The resulting SYR1-SlSERK heteromeric complexes trigger the phosphorylation of TOMATO PROTEIN KINASE 1B (TPK1b), a receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase that positively regulates systemin responses. Additionally, upon association with SYR1, SlSERKs are cleaved by the Pseudomonas syringae effector HopB1, further supporting the finding that SlSERKs are activated by systemin-bound SYR1. Finally, genetic analysis using Slserk mutants showed that SlSERKs are essential for systemin-mediated defense responses. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that the systemin-mediated association of SYR1 and SlSERKs activates defense responses against herbivorous insects.

Salivary polyreactive antibodies and Haemophilus influenzae are associated with respiratory infection severity in young children with recurrent respiratory infections.

Recurrent respiratory tract infections (rRTIs) are a common reason for immunodiagnostic testing in children, which relies on serum antibody level measurements. However, because RTIs predominantly affect the respiratory mucosa, serum antibodies may inaccurately reflect local immune defences. We investigated antibody responses in saliva and their interplay with the respiratory microbiota in relation to RTI severity and burden in young children with rRTIs. We conducted a prospective cohort study including 100 children aged <10 years with rRTIs, their family members and healthy healthcare professionals. Total and polyreactive antibody concentrations were determined in serum and saliva (ELISA); respiratory microbiota composition (16S rRNA sequencing) and respiratory viruses (quantitative PCR) were characterised in nasopharyngeal swabs. Proteomic analysis (Olink) was performed on saliva and serum samples. RTI symptoms were monitored with a daily mobile phone application and assessed using latent class analysis and negative binomial mixed models. Serum antibody levels were not associated with RTI severity. Strikingly, 28% of salivary antibodies and only 2% of serum antibodies displayed polyreactivity (p<0.001). Salivary polyreactive IgA was negatively associated with recurrent lower RTIs (adjusted OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.67-0.94) and detection of multiple respiratory viruses (adjusted OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.61-0.96). Haemophilus influenzae abundance was positively associated with RTI symptom burden (regression coefficient 0.05, 95% CI 0.02-0.08). These results highlight the importance of mucosal immunity in RTI severity and burden, and suggest that the level of salivary polyreactive IgA and H. influenzae abundance may serve as indicators of infection severity and burden in young children with rRTIs.

Epithelial Antimicrobial Peptide/Protein and Cytokine Expression Profiles Obtained from Nasopharyngeal Swabs of SARS-CoV-2-Infected and Non-Infected Subjects.

Immune responses of the epithelia of the upper respiratory tract are likely crucial in early inhibition of the viral replication and finally clearance of SARS-CoV-2. We aimed to compare the expression profiles of antimicrobial peptides/proteins (AMPs) and related cytokines observed in the nasopharynx of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients and non-infected controls and to assess the associations between these parameters and COVID-19 patients' outcomes. We included 45 subjects who had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and 22 control subjects who had tested negative for SARS-CoV-2. Biomaterial for SARS-CoV-2 detection, as well as gene and protein expression studies, was obtained from all subjects using nasopharyngeal swabs which were performed a maximum of 7 days before inclusion in the study. Univariable and multivariable statistics were performed. When compared to the controls, the mRNA expression levels of human β-defensin 1 (hBD-1), LL-37, and trappin-2 were significantly higher in specimens of nasopharyngeal swabs from COVID-19 patients. Protein expression of hBD-1 was also increased in the COVID-19 group. mRNA expression levels of interferon-ɣ (IFN-ɣ), tumor necrosis factor- ɑ (TNF-ɑ), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) measured in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients were significantly higher than those observed in the controls, which could also be confirmed in the protein levels of IFN-ɣ and IL-6. A significant correlation between mRNA and protein levels could be observed only for IL-6. Univariable analysis revealed that low IFN-ɣ mRNA levels were associated with severe/fatal outcomes. The occurrence of COVID-19 pneumonia was significantly associated with lower expression levels of IL-6 mRNA, IFN-ɣ mRNA, and TNF-ɑ mRNA. Concerning the severe/fatal outcomes, the multivariable logistic regression model revealed that none of the aforementioned parameters remained significant in the model. However, the logistic regression model revealed that higher TNF-ɑ mRNA expression was a significant independent predictor of absence of pneumonia [odds ratio: 0.35 (95% CI 0.14 to 0.88, p = 0.024)]. In conclusion, nasopharyngeal expression of AMPs (hBD-1, LL-37, and trappin-2) and cytokines (IL-6, IFN-ɣ, and TNF-ɑ) is upregulated in response to early SARS-CoV-2 infection, indicating that these AMPs and cytokines play a role in the local host defense against the virus. Upregulated nasopharyngeal TNF-ɑ mRNA expression during the early phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection was a significant independent predictor of the absence of COVID-19 pneumonia. Hence, high TNF-ɑ mRNA expression in the nasopharynx appears to be a protective factor for lung complications in COVID-19 patients.

Human breastmilk memory T cells throughout lactation manifest activated tissue-oriented profile with prominent regulation.

Breastfeeding provides important immunological benefits to the neonate, but how the different immunoactive components in breastmilk contribute to immunity remains poorly understood. Here, we characterized human breastmilk T cells using single-cell RNA-Seq and flow cytometry. Breastmilk contained predominantly memory T cells, with expression of immune signaling genes, high proliferation, and an effector Th1/cytotoxic profile with high cytokine production capacities. Elevated activation was balanced by an enriched Treg population and immune regulatory markers in conventional memory T cells. Gene and surface expression of tissue-residency markers indicate that breastmilk T cells represented tissue-adapted rather than circulatory T cells. In addition, breastmilk T cells had a broad homing profile and higher activation markers in these migratory subsets. The partly overlapping transcriptome profile between breastmilk and breast tissue T cells, particularly cytotoxic T cells, might support a role in local immune defense in the mammary gland. However, unique features of breastmilk, such as Tregs, might imply an additional role in neonatal immune support. We found some correlations between the breastmilk T cell profile and clinical parameters, most notably with maternal and household factors. Together, our data suggest that breastmilk contains an adapted T cell population that exerts their function in specific tissue sites.

On the different impact of local and national sources of policy uncertainty on sectoral stock volatility

We analyze the impact of state-level and national-level economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on stock volatility across 17 sectors. Using EPU data from 46 U.S. states, we construct a local uncertainty index through principal component analysis and compare it with national uncertainty using quantile regression. Our findings indicate that banks are influenced by both local and national uncertainty. Consumer-related sectors, such as beverages and transportation, react more to local uncertainty, while healthcare and defense sectors respond to national uncertainty. Sectors like medical, technology, electricity, and chemicals show no significant impact from either source. The effects are more pronounced at the 75th quantile, suggesting greater impact during high volatility periods. Our results provide important evidence that a generalized policy may not be effective as sectors respond differently to various sources of uncertainty. Instead, policymakers should combine national level policies with sector-specific approaches.

Purinergic control of apical ion conductance by luminal ATP in rat colonic epithelium

ATP, released e.g. after cell damage or during inflammation, can alter ion transport across the intestinal mucosa via stimulation of purinergic receptors in the basolateral as well as in the apical membrane of epithelial cells. When ATP acts from the serosal side, it induces an increase in short-circuit current (Isc) via Cl− secretion across the colonic epithelium. In contrast, mucosal ATP or its derivative, BzATP, predominantly stimulating ionotropic P2X4 and P2X7 receptors, evoke an increase in Isc, which could not be explained by Cl− secretion. The underlying ion currents after stimulation of apical purinergic receptors in rat distal colon are still unclear and were investigated in the present study.Ussing chamber experiments revealed that the Isc induced by mucosal ATP was dependent on the presence of mucosal Ca2+ and inhibited by the K+ channel blocker, Ba2+, indicating the involvement of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels. Blockade of the transepithelial Isc by lanthanides (La3+, Gd3+) suggests that Ca2+ enters the epithelium via nonselective cation channels. Experiments with basolaterally depolarized epithelia confirmed the activation of apical lanthanide-sensitive Na+- and Ca2+-permeable cation channels by ATP. Putative candidates might be TRP channels, from which several subtypes were detected in colonic tissue in RT-PCR experiments. In addition, the activation of an apical Cl− conductance was observed when suitable Cl− concentration gradients were applied. Consequently, mucosal ATP, acting as ‘danger signal’, stimulates cation and anion channels in the apical membrane to induce a secretory response as part of the local defence mechanism in the intestinal epithelium.

A New Twist to an Age-Long Friendship: The Role of Local Defence Groups in the Conflict Between Farmers and Herders

The relationship between farmers and herders, once characterised by symbiosis and mutual dependence, has undergone a profound transformation in many regions worldwide, marked by escalating tensions and violent conflicts over resources. This paper examines a new twist to the long-standing relationship, focusing on the emerging phenomenon of local defence groups and their impact on the dynamics of conflict between farmers and herders. Drawing on a multidisciplinary approach, this study explores the origins, motivations, organisational structures, and strategies of local defence groups operating within the context of farmer-herder conflicts using a qualitative approach that relies on secondary data from scholarly journals and newspaper editorials. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. The study established that historical grievances, socioeconomic factors, and environmental pressures fuel the emergence of these groups, often as a response to perceived failures of formal security mechanisms. This research assesses the implications of local defence groups for conflict escalation, peacebuilding efforts, and governance dynamics. While these groups may offer immediate security to communities vulnerable to violence and theft, their actions can exacerbate tensions, perpetuate cycles of revenge, and undermine prospects for long-term peace and stability. Additionally, their interactions with formal authorities, including the police and military, raise questions about state legitimacy, rule of law, and human rights protections. Through a nuanced analysis of case studies from diverse regions affected by farmer-herder conflicts, this study sheds light on the complexities of local defence dynamics. It offers insights for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars alike. It underscores the importance of holistic approaches that address underlying drivers of conflict, promote dialogue and reconciliation, and strengthen governance structures to foster sustainable peace and coexistence between farmers and herders in the face of evolving challenges.

Oat Beta-Glucan Dietary Intervention on Antioxidant Defense Parameters, Inflammatory Response and Angiotensin Signaling in the Testes of Rats with TNBS-Induced Colitis.

Male infertility represents a significant public health concern. There is a negative impact of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) on the male reproductive system. The aim of this study was to investigate whether oat beta-glucan (OBG) with different molar mass can modulate parameters of antioxidant defense and inflammatory response in the testes of adult Sprague-Dawley rats with TNBS-induced colitis and whether the OBG intervention can modulate the inflammatory response in association with the RAS system. Results: higher testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) activities and glutathione (GSH) concentration, and lower testosterone (T) level and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, were observed in rats with colitis than in healthy control ones. TNBS-induced colitis resulted in decreased the angiotensin 1-7 (ANG 1-7) level in the testes of rats fed with low-molar mass OBG compared to control animals. Conclusions: although colitis induced moderate pro-oxidant changes in the gonads, it seems plausible that dietary intervention with different fractions of oat beta-glucans mass may support the maintenance of reproductive homeostasis via the stimulation of the local antioxidant defense system.

Investigating Development and Defense Systems in Early Reproductive Stages of Male and Female Gonads in Black Scorpionfish Scorpaena porcus (Linnaeus, 1758).

One of the most crucial biological indicators in tracking long-term variations in the reproductive cycle is sexual development. Scorpaena porcus (Linnaeus, 1758), commonly known as the black scorpionfish, is a small teleost from the family Scorpaenidae. Much is known about its ecology, but data on its reproductive and defense systems are still lacking. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as piscidins, are integral components of the innate immune system in fish. These peptides exhibit a wide range of activity against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa and act as the first line of host defense. This study aims to investigate the primary sexual development stages in male and female gonads of black scorpionfish, providing additional knowledge on the reproductive biology of this teleost while evaluating concomitant changes in the expression of a Piscidin-1 antimicrobial peptide. The results show a histological, morpho-structural change from the immature stage to the developing virgin stage. Immunohistochemical analyses show that germinal and somatic cells are strongly reactive to Piscidin-1 in both gonads at an early ontogeny stage. These data suggest that Piscidin-1 may play a key role in the local defense system of scorpionfish gonads at this delicate stage, which is critical for the continuation and maintenance of the species. The present findings are potentially useful for a better understanding of the reproductive cycle of this fish, improving our knowledge of the interaction between the immune system and reproduction.

State of the vaginal biocenosis depending on the species diversity of lactobacilli

Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common reproductive health problems in women. Lactobacillus spp. play a leading role in the vaginal biocenosis and provide local antimicrobial defense, but not all species are equally capable of protecting the vaginal ecosystem from pathogens. Diagnostic methods in practical healthcare do not allow identification of Lactobacillus spp. species, which limits the ability to comprehensively assess the status of the vaginal biocenosis. We conducted a study in which we compared microscopy data of the examined smear with the detection of Lactobacillus spp. and other microorganisms. The aim of the study was to evaluate the species composition of Lactobacillus spp. from the vagina depending on morphologic characteristics and composition of associated flora. The study included 64 conditionally healthy women of reproductive age from 18 to 35 years old. The study of species composition of the vaginal biocenosis and typing of lactobacilli was carried out by real-time PCR methods. The obtained results were processed using generally accepted methods of descriptive and ordinal statistics. During the study, it was found that the vaginal biocenosis was dominated by species of Lactobacillus spp. L. crispatus, L. vaginalis, L. iners and L. jensenii. L. johnsonii was rarely found, and L. acidophilus was not detected. Typing results showed that the vagina was more frequently colonized by more than one species of Lactobacillus spp. while a single species of Lactobacillus spp. was detected less frequently. A correlation was found between Lactobacillus spp. species and bacilli thickness. If thick bacilli are detected in gynecological smear microscopy, they belong to the species L. crispatus, which has high colonization resistance and is a factor in the stability of the vaginal biocenosis. If smear microscopy reveals thin bacilli, then these are species of L. iners and L. jensenii. These representatives of Lactobacillus spp. are not directly related to the dysbiotic state of the vagina, but may indicate the possible development of dysbiosis in the future.

Transcriptomic analysis reveals novel hub genes associated with astrocyte autophagy in intracerebral hemorrhage.

Neuroinflammation serves as a critical local defense mechanism against secondary brain injury following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and astrocytes play a prominent role in this process. In this study, we investigated astrocytic changes during the inflammatory state after ICH to identify new targets for improving the inflammatory response. We stimulated mouse astrocytes with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro and analyzed their transcriptomes via ribonucleic acid sequencing. We created an ICH model in living organisms by injecting autologous blood. RNA sequencing revealed that 2,717 genes were differentially expressed in the LPS group compared to those in the saline group, with notable enrichment of the autophagic pathway. By intersecting the 2,717 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with autophagy-related genes, we identified 36 autophagy-related DEGs and seven hub genes. Previous studies and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction results confirmed the increased expression of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase catalytic subunit type 3 (Pik3c3), AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (Akt1), and unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 2 (Ulk2) in astrocytes after ICH. Transcription factors and target miRNAs were identified for the final three DEGs, and 3-methyladenine and leupeptin were identified as potential therapeutic agents for ICH. Our findings suggest that astrocyte autophagy plays a critical role in ICH complexity, and that Pik3c3, Akt1, and Ulk2 may be potential therapeutic targets.

LoMar: A compression-based local defence against poisoning attacks on federated learning

LoMar: A compression-based local defence against poisoning attacks on federated learning

Mucinous carcinoma of the appendix: a case report

Mucinous carcinoma of the appendix is ​​​​a rare malignant tumor of the appendix. Incidence ranges about 0.01-0.2% in cases of malignancy in the gastrointestinal tract. Clinically, the symptoms appear to resemble acute appendicitis. The diagnosis was established at intraoperative time. Studies on this case are still few. A 69-year-old man complained of lower right abdominal pain since 6 days before going to Sanjiwani hospital. The patient also complained of fever, nausea, decreased appetite and constipation. Examination results temperature 37.6 0C, McBurney sign (+), rebound tenderness (+), localized defense on lower right abdomen. Ultrasound examination of the abdomen with an impression of the end tubular structure, a peristaltic diameter of 0.87 cm accompanied by a fluid collection, suspicious of appendicitis with perforation. Inflamed appendix and localized mucin were found at ileocaecal junction intraoperatively. The patient underwent a right hemicolectomy. Histopathological examination revealed a morphological picture suitable for mucinous carcinoma of the appendix. Mucinous carcinoma of the appendix is ​​​​a rare malignant tumor of appendix. Patients can have the same symptoms as appendicitis. Ultrasound investigations can find a picture like appendicitis. Mucinous carcinoma of the appendix is ​​more frequently found intraoperatively. Histopathological examination is necessary to determine a definitive diagnosis of mucinous carcinoma of the appendix. In high grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (HAMN) a right hemicolectomy can be performed and continued with adjuvant chemotherapy.

Treatment specifics for sialadenosis of the parotid glands in patients undergoing eradication therapy

Relevance. Treating patients with comorbid pathologies of the parotid salivary glands (PSGs) and the gastrointestinal tract presents a significant clinical challenge. Sialadenosis commonly develops in acid-dependent diseases associated with H. pylori (HP) infection, often manifesting as complaints of dry mouth. This condition leads to a reduction in local immunological defense due to decreased levels of sIgA, which is predominantly sourced from parotid secretion. Gastroenterologists typically prescribe eradication therapy that includes a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which, according to its pharmacodynamic properties, can cause drug-induced xerostomia.Material and methods. A total of 115 individuals with sialadenosis of the PSGs and HP infection, confirmed by a positive urease rapid test in parotid secretion, aged 46.42 ± 6.21 years, were examined. The participants were randomly assigned into groups based on the prescription of absorbable gingival collagen membranes and the dose of a complex immunoglobulin preparation (CIP). The groups were as follows: Group I – 35 individuals without local therapy; Group II – 40 patients receiving 30 mg CIP; Group III – 40 patients receiving 60 mg CIP. Additionally, a control group consisting of 20 healthy individuals aged 44.46 ± 4.12 years was included. Gastroenterologists prescribed a standard triple eradication regimen, which included a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) at double dosage, 1000 mg amoxicillin, and 500 mg clarithromycin, taken twice daily for 14 days. All participants underwent comprehensive dental examinations at various stages: diagnosis, day 14 of eradication, and days 21 and 28 of observation.Results. A significant increase in PSG sialometry and sIgA levels in parotid secretion was observed in patients using absorbable gingival collagen membranes and CIP in addition to standard treatment. At a CIP dose of 60 mg, a negative urease rapid test was determined in parotid secretion by day 14, while at 30 mg, this occurred by day 21, confirming the effectiveness of the therapy.Conclusion. Treating patients with PSG sialadenosis undergoing eradication therapy requires a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach. It is necessary to include absorbable gingival collagen membranes and CIP at a dose of 60 mg twice daily for 21 days.

Pentingnya Badan Intelijen Pertahanan dalam Non-Combat Military Mission: Instrumen Perhatian Khusus untuk Peningkatan Kapasitas dan Kapabilitas Pertahanan

This research will focus on the importance of Defense Intelligence Agencies in Non-Combat Military Missions. This research method will use a qualitative approach with case studies to explore the importance of the Defense Intelligence Agency in Non-Combat Military Missions. The data will be collected through in-depth interviews with defense experts, intelligence analysts, and military personnel involved in non-combat missions, as well as through analysis of related documents and official reports. As a result, Military Intelligence has a vital role to play in defense policymaking by providing information to anticipate and confront potential threats, enabling comprehensive threat assessment, and supporting defense diplomacy with accurate intelligence. The establishment of the Defense Intelligence Agency under the Secretary of Defense was proposed because it could coordinate intelligence with military operations, speed up decision-making, and support non-combat missions with strategic intelligence. The agency also strengthens Indonesia's defense diplomacy by providing information for strategic planning and supporting collaboration with the local defense industry, which contributes to enhanced national defense capabilities and economic growth. To be effective, the intelligence function of the Defense Intelligence Agency must synergize with the existing intelligence community, to support Indonesia's mission to become an Asian Tiger.

Peptide REF1 is a local wound signal promoting plant regeneration

Plants frequently encounter wounding and have evolved an extraordinary regenerative capacity to heal the wounds. However, the wound signal that triggers regenerative responses has not been identified. Here, through characterization of a tomato mutant defective in both wound-induced defense and regeneration, we demonstrate that in tomato, a plant elicitor peptide (Pep), REGENERATION FACTOR1 (REF1), acts as a systemin-independent local wound signal that primarily regulates local defense responses and regenerative responses in response to wounding. We further identified PEPR1/2 ORTHOLOG RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE1 (PORK1) as the receptor perceiving REF1 signal for plant regeneration. REF1-PORK1-mediated signaling promotes regeneration via activating WOUND-INDUCED DEDIFFERENTIATION 1 (WIND1), a master regulator of wound-induced cellular reprogramming in plants. Thus, REF1-PORK1 signaling represents a conserved phytocytokine pathway to initiate, amplify, and stabilize a signaling cascade that orchestrates wound-triggered organ regeneration. Application of REF1 provides a simple method to boost the regeneration and transformation efficiency of recalcitrant crops.