Robot-Assisted Hysterectomy Provides Higher Sentinel Node Detection and Lower Conversion Rates Compared to Laparoscopy in Endometrial Cancer
Balázs Lintner, Zsófia Havrán, Gabriella Vajda
et al.
Background: Minimally invasive hysterectomy with sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping is standard for early-stage endometrial cancer, but comparative real-world data on robot-assisted (RAH) versus conventional laparoscopy (TLH) remain limited. This study aimed to compare the two techniques in a real-world clinical setting. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 140 patients with FIGO stage I endometrial cancer who underwent RAH or TLH at Semmelweis University between January 2022 and December 2024. We analyzed patient demographics, sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection rates, conversion rates, operative time, pathological characteristics. Results: Baseline demographic and oncologic characteristics were comparable. SLN detection was significantly higher in the RAH group compared to TLH (98% vs. 90.2%, <i>p</i> = 0.04). Conversion to laparotomy occurred in 0% of RAH cases versus 11.5% of TLH cases (<i>p</i> = 0.0024). Conclusions: In a standardized ICG-guided SLN mapping setting, RAH achieved higher SLN detection and markedly lower conversion rates than TLH, without differences in operative time or key pathological parameters.
Darkland, Fairyland, Gypsyland: ‘Gypsy’ Heterotopias and Barthesian Prestidigitation
Gaëtan Cognard
This article examines myths that have been disseminated through arts and culture about so-called “Gypsies”, confining them to “anti-worlds”. There is always a “glamour that enwraps the Gypsy race” (Sampson 1935a, 10). Romantics and some nineteenth-century writers considered them to be positive symbols of resistance to newly born capitalism and rampant industrialization. This constituted a sort of “légende rose” (Descola 2019, 13), or pink legend, as Philippe Descola put it about Achouars, that is, a very positive gaze upon a people yet labelled “primitive”. However, this article intends to focus on the negative “black legend” (Ibid.), the idea that “Gypsies” form a dark and hostile people belonging to a dark and hostile fantasized territory. Sixteenth- and seventeenth-century playwrights first depicted “Gypsies” as thieves, monsters, or inferior beings displaying dubious morality. They were ascribed mysterious powers, and “Gypsy” women were depicted as witches connected to their natural and dangerous territory, an occult Gypsyland. In all cases, they were shown as somewhat uncivilized (Grellman 1787, 24) and primitive beings, very much attached to their own traditions: a figure of the “Orientals within” (Lee 2000, 132). This Gypsylorism – understood here broadly as an orientalism about “Gypsies” – imposed a vision about them, now deeply rooted in the collective consciousness of the gadjos. “Gypsies” of fiction have been created and re-created until they occupy, in the Western imagination, foreign and/or dark territories yet these are situated inside Europe.
Surprisingly, they can be found to this day wandering in books and movies, in other spaces or “espaces autres”, and in fetishized beyonds or heterotopias (Foucault 1966, 31). “Gypsy” characters inhabit the margins of the dominant societies of the countries in which they settled centuries ago, as if constantly bringing along with them, in the fantasies of the gadjos, their own frontiers which would isolate them from the rest of the population; or they live in exotic Gypsylands inside the very West. Their assigned territories are “absolutely different”, they are counter spaces, or “contre-espaces” (Foucault 1966, 24), constituting a huge reserve of imagination, “une grande réserve d’imagination” (Foucault 1967, 36). A “Gypsy” para-history thus has been told and written over and over again, “evacuating” (Barthes 2010, 240) the history of Gypsies, and questioning the role of artists and responsibility of social players. This article will also seek to raise the issue of “double consciousness” (Du Bois 1903, 8) among “Gypsy” Travellers.
Colonies and colonization. Emigration and immigration. International migration, Communities. Classes. Races
Electric Vehicles and Energy Communities: Vehicle-to-Grid Opportunities and a Sustainable Future
Jozsef Menyhart
Renewable energy sources and energy independence are becoming increasingly important worldwide, and reducing emissions and optimizing energy use are high on the EU’s agenda. In this context, electric and hybrid vehicles could not only be a means of transport but also an active part of the grid. This paper analyzes one year of empirical data of a hybrid vehicle using a linear programing method that allows the optimization of energy return under different settings. The aim of the study is to determine the contribution that vehicles can make to the stability of the grid and the functioning of energy communities. It also compares the distribution of energy sources used in the EU and presents the current range of V2G-capable vehicle models. The results show that hybrid vehicles can also be effective energy storage devices, especially at fleet level. V2G technology could influence the development of battery production and contribute to the expansion of secondary markets by enabling the recycling of degraded batteries for buildings or renewable energy systems. The article also summarizes the development opportunities and challenges for V2G technology, in particular its role in energy grids and sustainable transport.
Finding Alternative Growth Engines in Central and Eastern Europe
Köz - gazdaság
Review of Economic Theory and Policy (RETP) interviewed Andrea Szalavetz, scientific advisor at the Institute of World Economics, Centre for Economic and Regional Studies, ELTE. Her research focuses on upgrading in global value chains, digital transformation and regional differences in technological development and innovation capabilities. In this interview, we discuss how Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) could transition from a development model dependent on foreign direct investment (FDI) to a more innovation-oriented and resilient trajectory. We also examine the technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem in the region, as well as the impact of developments in the defence industry and industrial policy on future growth.
Economic theory. Demography, Economic history and conditions
Green hydrogen value chain challenges and global readiness for a sustainable energy future
Vedant Singh, Aishwarya V.M., Sriprasath V.J.
et al.
Summary: Green hydrogen (GH) offers a sustainable fuel alternative for addressing global energy and climate goals. This study evaluates GH viability across five dimensions: technological advancement, economic feasibility and market potential, environmental impacts and resources dynamics, policy regulatory frameworks, and interdisciplinary collaborations. Recent advancements in electrolysis technologies and artificial intelligent driven process optimization have enhanced production efficiency and resource management. Despite increasing investments, GH faces challenges such as high electricity demand, water usage, and infrastructure constraints. A regional assessment using the Green Hydrogen Feasibility Index (GHFI) indicates that countries such as China, Germany, and the USA lead in readiness due to robust policies and investment, while others face implementation issues. The finding emphasizes the need for coordinated global regulation, infrastructure development, and digital integration to enhance GH scalability and sustainability. This work contributes a comprehensive framework for assessing GH deployment and highlights strategies to accelerate its role in achieving a net-zero energy future.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Empagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, and Allopurinol Based on Serum Uric Acid Levels and Kidney Function in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Roland Fejes, Tamás Jámbor, Tamás Lantos
et al.
<b>Background:</b> Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is often associated with hyperuricemia, both conditions worsening kidney function. Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors improve glycemic control and kidney function; however, data on their long-term antihyperuricemic effects in real-world clinical settings remain limited. Therefore, we aimed to compare the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors versus allopurinol on serum uric acid (sUA), kidney function, and clinical outcomes. <b>Methods:</b> This retrospective cohort study evaluated patients with T2DM and hyperuricemia initiated on 10 mg empagliflozin (<i>n</i> = 70), 10 mg dapagliflozin (<i>n</i> = 78), or 100 mg allopurinol (<i>n</i> = 66) between 1 January 2017, and 1 January 2020. Drug dosages were kept constant throughout the study. Baseline and follow-up data (3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months) were collected. <b>Results:</b> Over 36 months, empagliflozin and dapagliflozin significantly reduced sUA (from 452 (95) to 399 (69) µmol/L and from 450 (81) to 364 (71) µmol/L, respectively) and stabilized eGFR without a significant decline. Allopurinol also reduced sUA (from 430 (89) to 345 (69) µmol/L) but was associated with a progressive eGFR decline (from 70 (35) to 57 (32) mL/min/1.73 m<sup>2</sup>). Mortality was the highest in the allopurinol group; however, therapy discontinuation was the lowest with this treatment. <b>Conclusions:</b> SGLT2 inhibitors achieved comparable sUA reduction to allopurinol by 36 months while preserving eGFR. Allopurinol was associated with higher mortality and hospitalization rates; SGLT2 inhibitor therapy was associated with favorable multidomain outcomes, but strategies to address adverse effects are needed to enhance adherence.
The Attitude of Polish and Hungarian Societies Towards the Euro Currency: A Comparative Analysis
Kacper Mroczka
The adoption of the euro is a topic of constant discussion within the European Union. Since joiningthe EU in 2004, Poland and Hungary have taken quite different paths regarding their commitment to the eurozone, despite both being legally bound to join once they meet the convergence criteria. This article looks at how public opinions on euro adoption have changed in both countries from 2004 to 2024, while also considering the stances of important national institutions on monetary integration. Based on a close look at public debates, surveys, and institutional statements, the study finds a growing enthusiasm for the euro in Hungary. This interest is mainly driven by economic challenges and the perceived advantages of being part of the eurozone. On the other hand, Polish society remains more sceptical. This scepticism is influenced by political narratives that emphasise sovereignty and monetary independence. Even though there have been some noticeable changes in support, neither country has yet joined the ER M II mechanism or met all the necessary convergence criteria, making it unlikely that they will adopt the euro anytime soon. The findings show us just how much local political dynamics and the strategies of elites influence the process of Europeanization in the monetary sphere.
History of Central Europe, History of Balkan Peninsula
Feasibility of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence in ex vivo pathological dissection of colorectal lymph nodes—a pilot study
Lorand Lakatos, Ildiko Illyes, Andras Budai
et al.
Accurate lymph node (LN) retrieval during colorectal carcinoma resection is pivotal for precise N-staging and the determination of adjuvant therapy. Current guidelines recommend the examination of at least 12 mesocolic or mesorectal lymph nodes for accurate staging. Traditional histological processing techniques, reliant on visual inspection and palpation, are time-consuming and heavily dependent on the examiner’s expertise and availability. Various methods have been documented to enhance LN retrieval from colorectal specimens, including intra-arterial ex vivo methylene blue injection. Recent studies have explored the utility of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging for visualizing pericolic lymph nodes and identifying sentinel lymph nodes in colorectal malignancies. This study included 10 patients who underwent colon resection for malignant tumors. During surgery, intravenous ICG dye and an endoscopic camera were employed to assess intestinal perfusion. Post-resection, ex vivo intra-arterial administration of ICG dye was performed on the specimens, followed by routine histological processing and an ICG-assisted lymph node dissection. The objective was to evaluate whether ICG imaging could identify additional lymph nodes compared to routine manual dissection and to assess the clinical relevance of these findings. For each patient, a minimum of 12 lymph nodes (median = 25.5, interquartile range = 12.25, maximum = 33) were examined. ICG imaging facilitated the detection of a median of three additional lymph nodes not identified during routine processing. Metastatic lymph nodes were found in four patients however no additional metastatic nodes were detected with ICG assistance. Our findings suggest that ex vivo intra-arterial administration of indocyanine green dye can augment lymph node dissection, particularly in cases where the number of lymph nodes retrieved is below the recommended threshold of 12.
Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology. Including cancer and carcinogens, Pathology
The Proteoglycans Biglycan and Decorin Protect Cardiac Cells against Irradiation-Induced Cell Death by Inhibiting Apoptosis
Renáta Gáspár, Petra Diószegi, Dóra Nógrádi-Halmi
et al.
Radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD), a common side effect of chest irradiation, is a primary cause of mortality among patients surviving thoracic cancer. Thus, the development of novel, clinically applicable cardioprotective agents which can alleviate the harmful effects of irradiation on the heart is of great importance in the field of experimental oncocardiology. Biglycan and decorin are structurally related small leucine-rich proteoglycans which have been reported to exert cardioprotective properties in certain cardiovascular pathologies. Therefore, in the present study we aimed to examine if biglycan or decorin can reduce radiation-induced damage of cardiomyocytes. A single dose of 10 Gray irradiation was applied to induce radiation-induced cell damage in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts, followed by treatment with either biglycan or decorin at various concentrations. Measurement of cell viability revealed that both proteoglycans improved the survival of cardiac cells post-irradiation. The cardiocytoprotective effect of both biglycan and decorin involved the alleviation of radiation-induced proapoptotic mechanisms by retaining the progression of apoptotic membrane blebbing and lowering the number of apoptotic cell nuclei and DNA double-strand breaks. Our findings provide evidence that these natural proteoglycans may exert protection against radiation-induced damage of cardiac cells.
Gaseous Detectors for Field Applications: Quality Control, Thermal and Mechanical Stability
Ádám Gera, Gábor Nyitrai, Gergely Surányi
et al.
A cosmic muon imaging system is essentially a particle tracking detector as known from experimental High Energy Physics. The Multiwire Proportional Chamber (MWPC) once revolutionized this field of science, and as such it is a viable choice as the core element of an imaging system. Long term construction and operation experience was gathered from a Japanese–Hungarian collaboration that gave rise to the MWPC-based Muon Observatory System (MMOS), and is being used in Japan at the Sakurajima volcano. The present paper attempts to draw conclusions on the thermal and mechanical limits of the system, based on controlled measurements and detailed simulations. High temperature behavior and effects of thermal cycling and conditioning are presented, which appear to consistently allow one to propose quality control criteria. Regarding mechanical stability, the relation between gluing quality (tensile strength) and expected stress from vibration (during transportation) determines the safety factor to avoid damages. Both of these are presented and quantified in the paper using a conservative and austere approach, with mechanical simulations validated with experimental modal testing data. One can conclude that mechanical stress during industrial standard air freight shipping conditions is nearly a factor of three below the calculated maximum stress.
Physics, Nuclear and particle physics. Atomic energy. Radioactivity
Spectral Engineering of Hybrid Biotemplated Photonic/Photocatalytic Nanoarchitectures
Gábor Piszter, Krisztián Kertész, Dávid Kovács
et al.
Solar radiation is a cheap and abundant energy for water remediation, hydrogen generation by water splitting, and CO<sub>2</sub> reduction. Supported photocatalysts have to be tuned to the pollutants to be eliminated. Spectral engineering may be a handy tool to increase the efficiency or the selectivity of these. Photonic nanoarchitectures of biological origin with hierarchical organization from nanometers to centimeters are candidates for such applications. We used the blue wing surface of laboratory-reared male <i>Polyommatus icarus</i> butterflies in combination with atomic layer deposition (ALD) of conformal ZnO coating and octahedral Cu<sub>2</sub>O nanoparticles (NP) to explore the possibilities of engineering the optical and catalytic properties of hybrid photonic nanoarchitectures. The samples were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy and optical and scanning electron microscopy. Their photocatalytic performance was benchmarked by comparing the initial decomposition rates of rhodamine B. Cu<sub>2</sub>O NPs alone or on the butterfly wings, covered by a 5 nm thick layer of ZnO, showed poor performance. Butterfly wings, or ZnO coated butterfly wings with 15 nm ALD layer showed a 3 to 3.5 times enhancement as compared to bare glass. The best performance of almost 4.3 times increase was obtained for the wings conformally coated with 15 nm ZnO, deposited with Cu<sub>2</sub>O NPs, followed by conformal coating with an additional 5 nm of ZnO by ALD. This enhanced efficiency is associated with slow light effects on the red edge of the reflectance maximum of the photonic nanoarchitectures and with enhanced carrier separation through the n-type ZnO and the p-type Cu<sub>2</sub>O heterojunction. Properly chosen biologic photonic nanoarchitectures in combination with carefully selected photocatalyst(s) can significantly increase the photodegradation of pollutants in water under visible light illumination.
EEG alpha band functional connectivity and network structure mark hub overload in Mild Cognitive Impairment during memory maintenance
Z. Fodor, A. Horváth, Z. Hidasi
et al.
Introduction
While decreased alpha-band functional connectivity (FC) and changes in network topology have been reported in Alzheimer’s disease, it is not yet entirely known whether these differences mark cognitive decline in the early stages of the disease.
Objectives
Our study aimed to analyze EEG FC and network differences in the alpha frequency band during visuospatial memory maintenance between Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) patients and healthy elderly with subjective memory complaints.
Methods
FC and network structure of 17 MCI patients and 20 control participants were studied with 128-channel EEG during a visuospatial memory task. FC was measured by amplitude envelope correlation with leakage correction (AEC-c), while network analysis was performed by applying the Minimum Spanning Tree approach.
Results
Increasing memory load enhanced the mean alpha-band FC in the control group. In contrast to that, after an initial increase, the MCI group showed significantly (p<0.05) diminished FC in the highest memory load condition. Mean alpha AEC-c correlated significantly with the size and mean diffusivity of medial temporal lobe structures in the entire sample. The network analysis revealed a rerouted network in the MCI group with a more centralized topology and a more unequal traffic load distribution compared to the control group.
Conclusions
Alpha-band FC correlates with cognitive load-related modulation, with medial temporal lobe atrophy, and with the disruption of hippocampal fiber integrity in the earliest stages of cognitive decline. The more integrated network topology of the MCI group is in line with the “hub overload and failure” framework and might be part of a compensatory mechanism.
Disclosure
No significant relationships.
Estimating heritability of song considering within-individual variance in a wild songbird: The collared flycatcher
Mónika Jablonszky, Mónika Jablonszky, David Canal
et al.
Heritable genetic variation is a prerequisite for adaptive evolution; however, our knowledge about the heritability of plastic traits, such as behaviors, is scarce, especially in wild populations. In this study, we investigated the heritability of song traits in the collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis), a small oscine passerine with complex songs involved in sexual selection. We recorded the songs of 81 males in a natural population and obtained various measures describing the frequency, temporal organization, and complexity of each song. As we had multiple songs from each individual, we were able to statistically account for the first time for the effect of within-individual variance on the heritability of song. Heritability was calculated from the variance estimates of animal models relying on a genetic similarity matrix based on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism screening. Overall, we found small additive genetic variance and heritability values in all song traits, highlighting the role of environmental factors in shaping bird song.
Governance models of Hungarian higher education: from Humboldtian to State-controlled model
Carla Liege Rodrigues Pimenta, Zoltán Rónay
The paper focuses on the higher education evolution in Hungary from the historical perspective regarding the governance models implemented and constructed in connection with the legal provision of decision-making power within universities, between various governance mechanisms (faculty, academic committees, senates, and boards) and administrative structures. We identified four governance models during the last hundred years. In the primary stage, we track down the Humboldt model, and the German influence played a role in the institutional development. The beginning of communist era represented a reform called “de-Humboldtization” and it was the beginning of the second phase in which the Hungarian higher education reform can be identified under the socialist influence, concentrating on the formation and organisation of the Soviet higher education institutions. The subsequent stage, the neo-Humboldtian type (1993-2012), can be identified as the regaining autonomy at the higher education underneath the shifting of communism regime to democracy and market economy. However, during this era, the government continuously tried to reform university governance, which touched every time the autonomy issue. Undoubtedly, many elements of these reforms caused a slow sink of the level of autonomy. Ten years ago, started the fourth period. First, the state-controlled model (chancellor and Consistory system) and now the pseudo-private model has been introduced. These last two models are linked with intensive decreasing institutional autonomy and academic freedom at Hungarian higher education and showed that the current legislation regulates the operational and financial issues of the institutions.
What is the correct scientific name for “Fuling” medicinal mushroom?
Viktor Papp, Yu-Cheng Dai
In recent years, the scientific names of many cultivated and well-known medicinal fungal species have been changed. However, the results of taxonomic and nomenclature works on these economically important fungi are often overlooked or ignored in applied researches. The incorrect use of scientific names may cause uncertainty in research and in the global medicinal mushroom market. In this paper, we briefly review the current taxonomy and nomenclature of “Fuling” medicinal mushroom and make a proposal for biochemists, pharmacists and businessmen on the correct use of scientific names related to this species. Based on the recent taxonomic results and nomenclatural proposals, the use of the names Wolfiporia extensa, W. cocos and especially Poria cocos for the “Fuling” mushroom are incorrect and misleading; therefore, the acceptance of the names Pachyma hoelen or Wolfiporia hoelen is recommended.
Biology (General), Microbiology
Application of Nanotechnology for Sensitive Detection of Low-Abundance Single-Nucleotide Variations in Genomic DNA: A Review
Mahwash Mukhtar, Saman Sargazi, Mahmood Barani
et al.
Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the simplest and most common type of DNA variations in the human genome. This class of attractive genetic markers, along with point mutations, have been associated with the risk of developing a wide range of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Several existing methods to detect SNPs and mutations in body fluids have faced limitations. Therefore, there is a need to focus on developing noninvasive future polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–free tools to detect low-abundant SNPs in such specimens. The detection of small concentrations of SNPs in the presence of a large background of wild-type genes is the biggest hurdle. Hence, the screening and detection of SNPs need efficient and straightforward strategies. Suitable amplification methods are being explored to avoid high-throughput settings and laborious efforts. Therefore, currently, DNA sensing methods are being explored for the ultrasensitive detection of SNPs based on the concept of nanotechnology. Owing to their small size and improved surface area, nanomaterials hold the extensive capacity to be used as biosensors in the genotyping and highly sensitive recognition of single-base mismatch in the presence of incomparable wild-type DNA fragments. Different nanomaterials have been combined with imaging and sensing techniques and amplification methods to facilitate the less time-consuming and easy detection of SNPs in different diseases. This review aims to highlight some of the most recent findings on the aspects of nanotechnology-based SNP sensing methods used for the specific and ultrasensitive detection of low-concentration SNPs and rare mutations.
Nominal Convergence – Are We Getting Closer?
Otilia Georgiana Floroiu
All countries that joined the European Union are obligated to adopt the euro currency, except for Denmark that benefits from an opt-out clause. Presently, there are eight EU Member states that are not part of the euro zone: Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Sweden.
The national authorities are free to choose the time of accession and this prerogative allows some states to postpone by not entering the ERM II mechanism. But there are also countries who are severely struggling to meet the economic convergence levels.
The degree of economic convergence is analyzed by the European Commission through Flash Eurobarometer surveys every two years.
The purpose of this paper is to compare the 2018 Eurobarometer results with our own findings from December 2019, for a total of four countries: Romania, Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
Business, Economics as a science
René Goguey (1921 – 2015). Pionnier de l’archéologie aérienne en France et en Hongrie
Zoltán Czajlik
René Goguey (1921 – 2015)<div id="_mcePaste" class="mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">René Goguey (1921 – 2015)</div>
KONFERENCIA BESZÁMOLÓ AZ I. KÜLÖNLEGES BÁNÁSMÓD NEMZETKÖZI KONFERENCIÁRÓL
Katalin Mező
Helyszín: Debreceni Egyetem
Dátum: 2015. december 3.
Special aspects of education
A post-accession crisis? Political developments and public sector modernization in Hungary
György Jenei
46 sitasi
en
Political Science