žurnál

Magazine of Palacký University Olomouc, 2018/2

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UP hosted the prestigious THE summit

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2 — UP hosted the prestigious THE summit, and got top marks for its handling of the event 5 — Photostory – Academia Film Olomouc 6 — Rectors and deans of music universities in CEEC states debated at UP for the first time 6 — Sts Cyril and Methodius Faculty of Theology helmed again by Peter Tavel 7 — Faculty of Physical Culture moves and modernises its workplaces

7 — Conference on the future of the EU and European law Dear Colleagues, Students, and Friends 8 — Medical faculty hosted diamond alumni for the second time of Palacký University, 8 — Faculty of Health Sciences celebrated the tenth anniversary You are holding in your hands the latest issue of the university magazine, which of its foundation should show how rich and varied our 9 — Students at the Faculty of Science competed for the spring semester has been. We were Dean’s Award the first in Central Europe to host the global Times Higher Education Summit, 9 — Sanatoria Klimkovice became a faculty workplace of the thanks to which top academicians and Faculty of Education scientists from all over the world came to our city. 10 — International team led by Olomouc scientists reveals how Antabuse kills cancer At the same time, we held the 53rd annual Academia Film Olomouc 13 — Top-notch science and advanced technologies from UP save international science documentary unique works of art film festival, and its seven thousand attendees proved the popularity and 15 — Portrait – Květoslava Princová interest in this field. If you take those two 18 — Success events, and add the unique, still ongoing scientific project Arteca dedicated to 22 — Kaleidoscope of news briefs saving and preserving cultural heritage 24 — UniON – The University sets forth into the region which you will read about in this edition of Žurnál, you will get which may seem 25 — Interview – Tomáš Lebeda: Referendums are my nightmare at first glance a somewhat kaleidoscopic 28 — Bacterial resistance to silver nanoparticles can be overcome picture of the events and activities taking place at our university. 31 — Give Opportunity: Support young talent It is, however, a true picture. These 32 — BALUO Application Centre: Attracting crowds for the myriad examples clearly show Palacký uniqueness of its equipment and its comprehensive services University’s manifold directions. We are a school which educates and fosters 33 — Alumni – Pavel Sladký: Lawyer in the service of the state students, at the same time investing 35 — Experience – Seven years in Shanghai: From martial arts to considerable resources into research. Olomouc UP is also an institution which is aware 37 — On a Fulbright in New York of its social responsibility. And this is why we are initiating discussions on the future 39 — Reflection – Iran directions of society, for example via the Civic University project UniON, where we 40 — Host to a musical genius are engaging ourselves in the public space and its shaping, where we are actively entering the cultural sphere and inviting the most important global figures in science and academia to our city. It was truly a demanding semester, and title page – photo: Martin Holík I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of my colleagues for successfully getting through it. I wish all students, Žurnál | Published biannually in English | Czech Registration No.: MK ČR E 12524, ISSN 1804-6754 | Published by Palacký University Olomouc, Křížkovského 8, CZ-771 47 Olomouc, Czech Republic | academics, and employees a nice VAT No.: 61989592 | Chairman of the Editorial Board: Petr Bilík | Editor-in-Chief: Ivana Pustějovská summer. Rest up and gather strength, | Layout: Věra Marešová | Graphic Editor: Michaela Cyprová | Translation: Robert Hýsek, Matthew because in just a few months, we’ll be Sweney | Proofreading: Matthew Sweney | Editorial Board | Biskupské nám. 1, Olomouc | Telephone: continuing on our “ journey” at Palacký +420 585 631 155 | E-mail: [email protected] | Print | Profi-Tisk Group Olomouc | 1 000 copies University Olomouc.

Jaroslav Miller Rector, Palacký University Olomouc theme

text: Martina Šaradínová photos: Vojtěch Duda Martin Holík Tereza Hrubá

UP hosted the prestigious THE summit, and got top marks for its handling of the event

Determining the strong and weak points of Central European uni- versities and research institutions and building new strategic part- nerships. These are just several of the results gleaned from the global summit Research Excellence: New Europe Summit, which was hosted by Palacký University in June. At the unique meeting, the first ever held in Central Europe, the prestigious Times Higher Education ranking company announced the first evaluation of the universities of the countries in the “New Europe”.

One of the goals of the summit was to make tations,” said Palacký University Rector the Central European region more visible, Jaroslav Miller. in regards to its huge potential to compete The summit was successful in terms of at the top level in Europe within ten or fif- content and organisation, with Czech and teen years in education and research. The foreign participants praising the Olomouc institutions here however face a number event for both. “Speaking for myself, I can of challenges, often quite significant ones. say that the cooperation with colleagues And thus this summit became a suitable from Times Higher Education was very pro- space for sharing experiences and subse- fessional. I’m especially pleased with our quent ideas of strategies on how to improve summit programme. In choosing the themes weaknesses. of the panel discussions, we tried to concen- trate on questions which are emerging to- New international partnerships day in conjunction with the ‘New Europe’ “I had hoped that the summit would allow region. Placing discussions into the political rectors, vice-rectors, university and re- context and acquainting participants with search institution representatives to meet the issues and challenges which this region and agree on strategic partnerships. We faces was the right choice,” said Zuzana Po- have several projects that we’d like to im- lanská, Head of the UP Department for In- plement within an international consorti- ternational Strategy, who – along with the um, and I believe that we will be successful THE team as the main organiser – was re- in these. The summit fulfilled all our expec- sponsible for preparing the summit.

2 žurnál 2018 žurnál 2018 3 The Times Higher Education New Europe ranking 2018

Teaching Research Citation Industry International Overall Rank Institution Country score score score score score score

1 University of Tartu Estonia 24.5 25.3 83.6 33.5 50.4 44.6

2 Cyprus University of Technology Cyprus 17.8 13.8 88.6 33 69.9 42.1

3 University of Cyprus Cyprus 20.8 25 63.1 48.1 76.8 39.6

4 Charles University in Prague Czech Republic 29 22 56.3 32.1 55.6 37.2

5 Semmelweis University Hungary 22.6 11.9 61.5 34.4 73.8 35.2

6 University of Warsaw Poland 25.9 18.3 47.1 32.4 44.6 31.5

7 Masaryk University Czech Republic 22.2 22.7 42.8 33.7 56.3 31.4

8 University of Split Croatia 16.8 12.5 60.3 33.5 41.7 30.9

9 University of Maribor Slovenia 18.9 15.3 49 39.2 36.7 28.7

10 Palacký University Olomouc Czech Republic 19.3 12.2 45 32.5 54.6 27.9

“Central Europe is a rapidly developing the Cyprus University of Technology and going dynamic development, and proving and highly ambitious region. It’s fantastic the University of Cyprus. Czechia has the that the Czech Republic has the opportuni- to be exploring its current centres of excel- highest number of universities listed in the ty to be included on the world level in terms lence, its rising stars of higher education rankings, with 13. Three Czech universities of science, research and academics. Re- – and considering the steps it must now placed in the Top Ten: Charles University in sults of the summit however also pointed take to boost its reputation and influence Prague at number four, Masaryk University out the fact that Czech universities are not on the global stage, to rival the traditional Brno at number seven, and Palacký Univer- able to adequately “sell” their expertise in heavyweight research regions of Western sity Olomouc at number ten. the global context. Europe, Australia, East Asia, and North “On one hand, we can be satisfied that Participants however also brought a rec- America,” said Phil Baty, Editor-in-Chief we are in the Top Ten, above many other ipe on how to further advance Czech sci- of the THE World University Rankings. universities. On the other hand, we have ence and research. “We support what’s av- a reason to keep improving. We were cat- erage, instead of true excellence. We have Palacký University in the Top Ten apulted into the Top Ten mainly due to to rid ourselves of the egalitarian approach The highlight of the summit was the publica- science, in which our indicators rocketed to funding. And if a scientist carries out tion of the THE New Europe 2018 ranking, upward. And that is combined with pub- above-average science, let him or her be which for the first time evaluated universi- lications in prestigious professional jour- compensated in an above-average way. We ties from the 13 countries which have joined nals and works which are often cited,” said also lag behind in our support of young sci- the EU since 2004. The ranking included 53 UP’s rector, commenting on its placement. entists and internationalisation,” point- institutions, with the University of Tartu in The ranking wanted to call attention to ed out the world-famous physical chemist Estonia taking the top position, followed by the area of Central Europe as one under- Pavel Hobza, of UP.

4 žurnál 2018 photostory

AFO broke its own record. Seven prizes and three honourable mentions were brought home by domestic and foreign film-makers at this year’s International Festival of Science Documentary Films – Academia Film Olomouc. It can pride itself in its 53rd year, which brought a re- cord number of seven thousand viewers and five hundred Czech and foreign guests. “The festival perfectly fulfilled its mission and became an active, stirring, opinionated platform – and for the very first time in its history it became a living protest to save the Earth and ocean life,” said the festival spokesman, Ondřej Čížek. The Award for Personal Contribution to Science Communication was awarded both to the undersea documentary film-maker Steve Lichtag, and to the NGO Ocean Ark Alliance, a world-wide platform for deeper understanding and appreciation of the oceans, sea corals, and the life in them. (ipu)

žurnál 2018 5 8 faculties 1 university

Rectors and deans of music universities in CEEC states debated at UP for the first time

For the first time ever, rectors and deans of tation tools that are not based in the hu- first time were the rector of the University music faculties and academies in the Cen- manities. Key publications in the area of of Arts in Belgrade and respected music tral and Eastern Europe Countries (CEEC) musicology and music education do not composer, Zoran Erić; and an important had a meeting at the UP Faculty of Arts. correspond with them, and then it may violoncellist and vice-rector for science at The two-day symposium of leading repre- seem that the citation index and impact the Estonian Music Academy in Tallinn, sentatives of music schools in the former of our monographs is negligible. The ex- Henry-David Varema. “I am very happy Eastern bloc discussed their new possibil- act opposite is true,” said Vít Zouhar, UP that all the invited guests arrived in Olo- ities of cooperation. Vice-Rector for Studies. Therefore, rectors mouc and acknowledged the importance “Our goal was to newly define strategic and deans of European music schools pre- of this meeting. They also highly appreci- partners, on both bilateral and multilater- sented particularly those key activities that ated the scientific, educational, and artis- al levels. We together pondered what else are in need of partners for musicological, tic activities of the Department of Music should be done so that music activities of music educational and interdisciplinary Education at the UP Faculty of Education universities had greater global impact in research, partners for education of out- and the Department of Musicology at the all their areas of influence – in music edu- standing interpreters and composers, and UP Faculty of Arts, from monographs, cation, art, as well as research. We consid- partners for the production of joint artistic critical editions, and CD recordings to the ered specific steps that need to be done so projects. music-neurological research and the edu- that the most important productions were The prestigious conference in Olomouc cational programme Different Hearing,” more visible and had wider and more pro- was attended by the majority of the main added Zouhar. The organisers of the con- nounced feedback. Our discussions also representatives of leading music universi- ference were Palacký University and the revealed how we struggle, at national lev- ties in the CEEC countries. Among those Janáček Academy of Music and Perform- els, with unsuitable scientometrics and ci- who visited Palacký University for the very ing Arts in Brno. (map)

Sts Cyril and Methodius Faculty of Theology helmed again by Peter Tavel

The current dean of the Sts Cyril and er. There is a superb atmosphere at the fac- ing new forms of philanthropy as well as Methodius Faculty of Theology (CMFT) at ulty, even among staff. We are one team in the readiness in responding to current so- Palacký University, Peter Tavel, will again the same boat,” said Peter Tavel immedi- ciety-wide themes, such as gender issues, take the helm of his office for next four ately after his re-election. homosexuality, the virtual world, smart years. The faculty senators made this de- In his next four years in office, the dean technologies, and all kinds of new addic- cision in the first round of a secret ballot. will mainly strive for further improvement tions that the young generation are liable Peter Tavel received 11 affirmative votes of both academics and studies, and sys- to. “It is necessary to have the courage and and only one negative. “I thank you for tematic education of the young academic proceed to a solid discussion supported by your trust and the strong mandate. During generation. His priorities also include in- objective facts, professional expertise, and the election campaign I was very moved creased internationalisation of the faculty, well-informed knowledge,” emphasised by learning that we are all pulling togeth- more intense use of modern technologies in Tavel. education, and maintaining the continuity His second term will begin on 14 Sep- of growing performance in academics. The tember 2018. Until then the statement of strong points of the faculty, according to the Congregation for Catholic Education him, include the quality of theological study in Rome, which must approve the result of and the study programmes Charity and the election in accordance with religious Social Work, International Social and Hu- law, should be known. The request for ni- manitarian Work, and Social and Spiritual hil obstat – no objections – was sent by the Determinants of Health, which are unpar- Olomouc Archbishop Jan Graubner, Great alleled in the whole of the Czech Republic. Chancellor of the CMFT, who is the clerical One of the challenges for the future is guarantor of the faculty. The UP Rector will to use the faculty’s potential in establish- then install Peter Tavel into office. (mav)

6 žurnál 2018 The Faculty of Physical Culture moves and modernises its workplaces

The UP Faculty of Physical Culture (FPC) form a state-of-the-art environment for the from the Hynaisova street in the town cen- has undertaken the long and difficult task faculty’s research projects and the appli- tre to the Neředín campus. Things will be of moving and renovating its facilities. The cation of their findings into practice. The topsy-turvy for a while, but I believe we’ll recently completed building of the Centre majestic premises will host laboratories make it, and the conditions for our work for Kinanthropological Research is gradu- and the offices of the Department of Nat- will be significantly improved,” said Dean ally being occupied, while the fifth floor of ural Sciences in Kinanthropology and the Michal Šafář at the meeting of the facul- the teachers’ building, faculty building C in Active Lifestyle Institute from the begin- ty’s academic community. the Neředín campus, is being refurbished. ning of the new academic year. “This will Along with moving comes the first stage The new building of the Centre for allow us to move the headquarters of the of the project “Modernisation of the FPC Kinanthropological Research was erected Department of Physiotherapy closer to the buildings in Olomouc-Neředín”, thanks to during 2017 in the place of a former mili- RRR Centre (Centre for Treatment of Pain- which the faculty will receive a modern ed- tary laundry in close proximity to the BAL- ful Conditions and Movement Disorders), ucational infrastructure for students and UO Application Centre, and together they and also to move the Department of Sport teachers corresponding to the 21st centu- ry. During the summer of 2018, classrooms on the fifth floor in the faculty building C will be completely renovated. “The work should be finished by the end of August, so the classrooms will be ready in September. The reconstruction of the auditorium and other spaces in the Dean’s Office building will take place next year in the same sea- son,” added the dean. Needless to say, construction workers were regularly seen at the faculty premises even before the commencement of present construction works. The premises of the RRR Centre were renovated and modern- ised at a cost of €80,000, and opened at the beginning of the summer term. (vim)

Conference on the future of the EU and European Law

To make professional contributions to the She further related the two dimen- Kovaříková, Acting Head of the Europe- debate on which direction the Europe- sions of the conference: the profession- an Commission Representation in the an Union should take, and to increase the al one, trying to make an academic con- Czech Republic; Nataša Chmelíčková, awareness of its current development in tribution to the present political debate; Head of the Section of Asylum and Legis- the broad Czech public – those were the and the civic one. “The awareness of the lation, Department of Asylum and Migra- main goals of the conference called “The issues related to the future of the EU tion Policy, Czech Ministry of Interior; Future of the EU and European Law (In- and their understanding are important and Petr Kolář, former Ambassador of the cluding Relevant Issues of National Law of for scientists and citizens alike,” added Czech Republic to the United States and the Member States)”, organised by the Jean Šišková. the Russian Federation. The plenary ses- Monnet Centre of Excellence in EU Law at The plenary session around the con- sion was followed by five specialised con- Palacký University. ference table brought together Dana ference sections. (eha) The two-day international and multidisci- plinary event brought 273 participants to the Faculty of Law, out of whom 36 gave pres- entations. “The theme of the conference was not chosen randomly. We tried to reflect the reality that the Union is in a critical moment of its further development. Discussions on the perspective of the EU have been our daily bread, but at this very moment such debates have abandoned the realm of mere theory and advanced to the choice of specific politi- cal scenarios and realistic foundations for in- depth reform and transformation of the very grounds of the Union,” explained Naděžda Šišková, Head of the Jean Monnet Centre of

photos: Mazochová Velena | Martin Višňa | Eva Hrudníková | Vojtěch Duda Excellence in EU Law.

žurnál 2018 7 8 faculties 1 university

Medical faculty hosted diamond alumni for the second time

After an unbelievable sixty years, twen- through two-thirds of the tragic twentieth for, in particular, having enriched numerous ty-one former students of medicine took century, and the more so we are able to ap- people at home and abroad with your profes- a ceremonial graduation oath when they preciate the present successful development sion and for bringing love, wisdom, selfless- accepted the invitation for the historic sec- of the medical faculty and the whole univer- ness, and patience to your society. You lived ond Diamond Graduation at the UP Fac- sity. Praiseworthy is also the university’s fo- the most active parts of your lives in times ulty of Medicine and Dentistry. In addi- cus on the care for development of general when perhaps rather than productive pro- tion, almost eighty former students of the education. I believe that this is the only guar- fessional work, you had to demonstrate your graduation year 1988 also returned to their antee that alumni will leave their individual moral strength,” emphasised Ulrichová. alma mater as participants of the meeting faculties with full professional training as On the same day, the 1988 alumni ar- called Radicēs (Roots). well as broad knowledge in the social and rived in Olomouc to join their Radicēs. This Two generations of students, who con- cultural spheres,” said one of the diamond year’s “thirty-year-olds” included even the cluded their studies with the interval of alumni, Vít Krupař, who worked as an inter- current dean, Milan Kolář. “Let’s please thirty years, thus had an opportunity to nist for the most of his productive life at the erase the time that has passed since our meet again their schoolmates as well as the medical faculty in Hradec Králové. last graduation, and let’s return to those current leaders of the faculty. Their com- Vice-Rector Jitka Ulrichová, speaking on times when we still studied in these rooms. mon alma mater opened for them the “old” behalf of the university management and her I hope that we will cherish those memories Theoretical Institutes as well as its modern, medical faculty, expressed her admiration in our hearts forever and that the feeling of recently completed building. and respect to the abundant legacy of their togetherness will never abandon us,” said “We belong to a generation who lived former students. “I want to thank you all the dean. (mav)

The Faculty of Health Sciences celebrated the tenth anniversary of its foundation

Almost 2000 graduates, cooperation with usually the ones that are the most dynam- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral study three dozen foreign universities, eight ic, flexible, and most agilely responding to programmes. The interest in studying at study programmes, and an identical num- the society’s demands. These are their ad- our faculty is also unceasing; it rather has ber of institutes – this is but a brief ac- vantages and strengths,” said Rector Jaro- a tendency to be on the increase,” under- count of achievements of the UP Faculty of slav Miller during the ceremonial opening lined Vomáčka. Health Sciences (FHS) since its inception of the celebrations in the Archdiocesan The highlight of the celebrations was an in 2008 as the eighth faculty of Palacký Museum Olomouc. international academic conference with University. This year’s tenth anniversary According to its current dean, Jaroslav lectures by renowned scientists from the was commemorated by a festive three-day Vomáčka, FHS – as one of the two indepen- United Kingdom, Australia, Belgium, Ita- academic programme. “Ten years in the dent health sciences faculties in the Czech ly, and Latvia. Among them was an expert life of a faculty which plays a role in the ed- Republic – has proved its viability and sta- in biomechanics, Jim Richards, professor ucation of students, in science, research, bility in educational as well as scientific and at the University of Central Lancashire in and internationalisation of the entire uni- research activities. “Our results have been Preston. As a long-term collaborator with versity, is still a relatively short space of a confirmation of the fact that we are an the faculty he participates in the education time. Such young faculties, however, are institution providing quality education in of Olomouc students, also enabling them to have study stays at his own workplace. “They use our lab to work on the research for their Master’s theses. They are doing an outstanding job, and I hope our coop- eration in education, science, and research will continue,” said Richards. The academic conference was preceded by an awards ceremony to honour person- alities who were instrumental in the foun- dation and development of health sciences in Olomouc. (mav)

8 žurnál 2018 Students at the Faculty of Science competed for the Dean’s Award

The student science competition called the Poster section with her work “Spacetime not have to be bound by long-established Dean’s Award at the UP Faculty of Science Analysis of the Prize Map in 1993–2017”. ‘truths’. I also think it is important for stu- aroused great interest again. Eighty stu- “Students have to manifest a creative dents to get an opportunity to try a pres- dents entered the results of their work in spirit in such scientific works, entering an entation of their scientific work on their the contest. They presented their works in adventure of experimentation with unclear home turf. It is one thing to acquire results; mathematics and informatics, chemistry, results, but one could say this is how gen- it is yet another to introduce them to the physics, biology and ecology, Earth scienc- uine science works. And we are sometimes public. I’d love to thank all the students and es and natural science didactics in front of rewarded with interesting results. Due to their supervisors who attended the compe- expert juries, in the Bachelor's, Master's, their young age, their imagination does tition,” said Dean Martin Kubala. (cho) and doctoral categories. Soňa Krajčovičová with her work “Tar- geting Protein Kinase Inhibitors: A Step- wise Approach for the Synthesis of Fo- lic Acid Conjugates with CDK Inhibitors” became a triple champion, since she won in the doctoral category and became an overall winner of her section as well as the whole contest. “I am very honoured, but the victory does not belong only to me, but also to my supervisor, Associate Professor Miroslav Soural,” added Krajčovičová. Other overall winners were Tomáš Mi- kula in Mathematics and Informatics, Petr Obšil in Physics; Eliška Šormová in Biolo- gy and Ecology; Karel Drlík in Natural Sci- ence Didactics; Lucie Králová in the Earth Sciences; and Barbora Kočvarová in the

Sanatoria Klimkovice became a faculty workplace of the Faculty of Education

Thanks to a new memorandum on cooper- several research projects with the main aim fessional practice for the students. Both ation and several other contracts, Sanato- to include special education into the Czech institutions will newly conduct joint re- ria Klimkovice became a new faculty work- health system. search and cooperate in internal and ex- place of the UP Faculty of Education (FE). Although the Faculty of Education ternal grants and projects, co-financed The connection of the spa and the faculty has been collaborating with Sanatoria from European structural and invest- will not only enable their joint training of Klimkovice for roughly two years, un- ment funds as well as from other provid- students, but also their collaboration on til now the activity comprised only pro- ers. They also intend to collaborate in ex- perimental development, innovations, and scientific experiments. Particular focus will be placed on special education in logopaedics, typhlopaedics, surdopae- dics, and somatopaedics. “Students need to become familiar with therapies they learn about in textbooks, and in Klim- kovice they use a variety of modern ther- apies. The existing cooperation has been extended to include joint research,” said Kateřina Vitásková from the FE Institute of Special Education Studies. While in the past the spa specialised in practical medicine and procedures, there is growing demand today for rehabilita- tion and activities in special education. “The sanatoria in general lack experts from non-educational disciplines within special education, with a focus on diag- nostics, intervention, and therapy,” added photos: Mazochová Velena | Šárka Chovancová | Vojtěch Duda | Ivana Gračková Vitásková. (map)

žurnál 2018 9 science

International team led by Olomouc scientists reveals how Antabuse kills cancer

An international research The anti-tumour effects of disulfiram, city and the waste piles up. We are making team led by researchers at known under its commercial name of Ant- possible such a strike,” explained one of abuse, have been explored by scientists for the co-authors of the breakthrough study, the Institute of Molecular decades, but until now, they did not know Martin Mistrík. and Translational Medicine how it actually worked on cancer cells. The “The functional NPL4 protein is an inte- (IMTM) of the UP Faculty of answer has been given by the team led by gral component of the important p97 mo- Medicine and Dentistry has Jiří Bártek, who together with his colleagues lecular pathway. It helps cells cope with first described the mecha- from Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, and stress caused by the accumulation of dam- the USA, have proven the drug’s effects on aged proteins. Cancer cells ordinarily dis- nism by which Antabuse, an cancer cells at the molecular level. The break- play a huge overproduction of defective inexpensive drug used in through work came out of epidemiological proteins. The loss in NPL4 function was the treatment of alcoholism, studies performed on Danish patients – then able to be used to ‘suppress’ the can- kills cancer-forming cells. The specifically, alcoholics who were diagnosed cer cells,” explained Jiří Bártek, leader of breakthrough results of the with malignant tumours. It showed that pa- the Genome Integrity Unit at the Danish tients who continued to take Antabuse after Cancer Society in Copenhagen, and lead- molecular research, which being diagnosed with cancer had a signifi- ing personality at IMTM. were published in the prestig- cantly smaller risk of death from cancer than A fully functional p97/NPL4 pathway is ious scientific journal Nature, patients who didn’t take the drug. considered an attractive target for future represent a promising out- The scientists combined laboratory, treatments. “The defect in the p97 path- look for cancer treatment. preclinical studies and epidemiological way, induced by disulfiram, or respective- research and have shown that disulfiram ly its active metabolite, is a breakthrough (DSF) contributes to copper being me- discovery. The identification of the mo- tabolised into a copper complex which ac- lecular target makes possible future per- cumulates in tumorous cells. It binds to sonalisation of treatment with the highest the important NPL4 protein, which is re- likelihood of therapeutic response,” em- sponsible for eliminating the unwanted phasised Marián Hajdúch, IMTM Direc- proteins, resulting in the protein’s immo- tor. In cooperation with the Department bilisation and subsequent loss of function- of Oncology at the University Hospital Ol- ality – the cell floods with toxic “waste” omouc, scientists at the IMTM are contin- and dies. “The cells begin to accumulate uing further research on the effects of DSF this waste and the result is that they are in combination with copper in a partial text: Velena Mazochová no longer able to survive. It is similar as to clinical study, open to about 150 patients photo + illustration: IMTM Archive when the garbage men go on strike in the with metastatic breast cancer.

10 žurnál 2018 Breakthrough discovery: a key positive effects on various other diseases, step on the path to cheap “non- there is no money for testing them on peo- At present, the only example profit” medicine? ple,” says the scientist, who has been pro- of a non-profit drug is the The new discovery, the result of basic and moting his hypothesis on the anti-tumour non-patentable antibiotic preclinical research, has shown the strong effects of Antabuse since 2007. paromomycin, whose anti-tumour activity of disulfiram on the To bridge the gap between research clinical tests for use against cellular level. As to when it could be of use and clinical treatment, he is now offer- the fatal disease visceral in the treatment of cancer patients, this ing the concept of “non-profit” drugs as leishmaniasis (a/k/a kala- is something that further clinical devel- a pilot case within a project of the same azar and Dumdum fever) opment, aimed on confirming its effica- name at OUSHI, under the leadership of have been financed by the cy and safety on the human body, will de- Peter Tavel. The idea behind it is to find World Health Organization, cide. “Only clinical studies on samples of non-commercial possibilities for financ- the Bill & Melinda Gates thousands of people will prove or disprove ing the clinical development of non-pa- Foundation, and other non- our findings,” emphasised another of the tentable drugs, with disulfiram in first profit organisations. “Because main authors of the lauded study, chemist place. “Verifying the positive side effects the goal of investment into and philosopher Boris Cvek of UP’s Olo- of several drugs in treating cancer is very such drugs is not about mouc University Social Health Institute much in the public interest. The financing private gain but is in the (OUSHI). should be carried out by public funds, and public interest, it was Financially demanding and time-con- without private corporations profiting possible to keep the price of suming clinical studies on new drugs are from it. A drug which would successful- paromomycin down to a few customarily paid for by pharmaceutical ly pass such tests ought to remain cheap dollars. Antabuse may offer companies – and after going on the mar- and available – and be a non-profit drug,” a similar opportunity,” Cvek ket, the drugs are protected by patents. explained Cvek. The main partners of the believes. According to Cvek, pharmaceutical com- project, according to him, ought to be panies will not be interested in such an primarily state and governmental agen- investment when it comes to Antabuse. cies, domestic and international charity “Antabuse offers no return on invest- and health organisations, and the general ments, nor any profit. It’s been used for public. “If it works, it might mean a new decades and all the patents have expired. If generation of cheap drugs, available not someone were to invest money into it, and only here, but world-wide.” later it was proven that it has therapeu- Researchers in the project also want to tic effects on cancer, anybody else could dedicate themselves to systematic search- then manufacture and sell it,” explained ing for the positive side effects on can- Cvek. The unpatented drugs used in the cer patients who are using disulfiram as treatment of other diseases are, accord- a treatment for alcoholism. Both Czech and ing to him, “in a pickle”: “While research international researchers will cooperate on has shown that they can have significantly the project.

The trail-blazing announce- ORGANISM LEVEL ment published in Nature, DSF point-by-point: Cu2+ ƒƒ the first description of the TUMOuR LEVEL mechanism of the anti-tu- >> CuET Accumulation CELLULAR EFFECTS mour effect of disulfiram (Antabus, Antabuse) >> impaired protein degradation ƒƒ the first confirmation of >> Poly-Ub proteins epidemiological data prov- accumulation ing its anti-tumour effects >> ER stress (UPR activation) ƒƒ the identification, synthe- >> p97 pathway interference sis, and validation of the >> p97/NPL4 immobilization active metabolite (CuET) of >> Heat shock response disulfiram and copper ƒƒ a new method of detecting active substances in blood and tissues ƒƒ the discovery of possible biomarkers for monitoring UFD1 cancer treatment MOLECULAR EFFECTS NPL4 protein NPL4/p97 Aggregation UFD1 NPL4 NPL4

žurnál 2018 11 text: Milada Hronová science Ivana Pustějovská Martina Šaradínová photos: David Frank Viktor Čáp

The state of the painting before restoration. UV luminescence before restoration. IR reflectography before restoration.

Testing removal of the layer of varnishes The process of the removal of the layer of The whole painting in the course of the removal and retouching. varnishes and retouching. of the layer of varnishes and retouching.

12 žurnál 2018 Top-notch science and advanced technologies from UP save unique works of art

Venezia, the sixteenth century. The painter Francesco Bassano makes preparations for a new paint- ing. He chooses a biblical motif – the construction of Noah’s Ark. In addition to quality canvas and brushes, he also needs high-quality painter’s oils. He mixes them himself. When satisfied, he starts painting. Cut to Olomouc, the Czech Republic, the twenty-first century. Scientists excelling in several disciplines, equipped with top-notch technology, analyse Francesco’s paints. Their goal is not only to confirm his authorship of the painting – but to discover much more. To find new meth- ods and procedures that will help them improve the restoration and protection of such historical artworks. This is the purpose of the unparalleled project Arteca, launched at Palacký University.

The Arteca project, whose partners are the important for its restoration or reconstruc- Czech National Heritage Institute and the tion. There are a number of physical-chem- The title photograph features the Olomouc Museum of Art, brings together ical methods that could be used for explo- restored painting Construction experts specialising in the theory of histor- ration of those works,” said Karel Lemr of Noah’s Ark, attributed to ic preservation at the Department of Art from RCPTM. Since the artworks are his- Francesco Bassano. The oil History at the UP Faculty of Arts and ex- torically very valuable, according to Lemr painting on canvas was made perts in physical-chemical research at the it is necessary to conduct the analyses in in the 1570s and is part of the Regional Centre of Advanced Technolo- such a way that the work itself would not collections of the Olomouc gies and Materials (RCPTM) at the UP be damaged. In addition to convenient ap- Archbishopric – Archdiocesan Faculty of Science. Their goal is to devel- plications of existing methods, analytical Museum Kroměříž. The op new scientific methods and procedures chemists and optical scientists will also de- illustrative pictures show in the protection and restoration of cultur- velop new procedures. For instance, they several samples of works and al heritage items, which could be later ap- plan to use the multimodal monitoring of techniques used by experts during plied in practice. samples, which has been used until now restoration. The goal of the Thanks to Arteca, a 30-member team rather for biological materials. Arteca project is to develop new will be established at UP. “The develop- “We will develop methods that will scientific methods and procedures ment of new methods and techniques for bring together several analytical tech- in the restoration, renovation, research into cultural and artistic herit- niques, allowing us to acquire more com- and protection of such cultural age in Europe has been marked with great plex information about the sample,” add- gems as well as diverse historical progress, and we cannot fall behind in the ed Lemr, a chemist. The Arteca project, objects. Czech Republic,” said the leader of the re- thanks to which RCPTM experts will ob- search team, Jana Michalčáková from the tain also a special mass spectrometer for Department of Art History. The potential analysis of solid samples, could become of Arteca goes beyond scientific research – a platform for the establishment of a new its results will be used in practice. Not only research discipline at Palacký University. companies and institutions closely special- “The RCPTM optical scientists will ana- ised in heritage protection, but also indus- lyse the artworks by means of colour anal- tries such as the construction industry will ysis and modern spectrometry, today used be able to use their methods. mainly in quantum and non-linear optics. Like the chemists, they expect to learn Natural scientists together with many a new thing,” said RCPTM Scientific historians Director, Ondřej Haderka. Arteca will form a more solid basis for the existing, long-term collaboration between New procedures and a new the natural scientists from RCPTM and art perspective historians, which has been rather a matter Thanks to the research methods based in of relatively isolated tasks until now. “Our the natural sciences, art historians will be mission is to provide analyses of materials enabled to become more deeply acquaint- used in historic works, which will help art ed with the investigated works. According historians to put them into a certain con- to Michalčáková, they will no longer study text. This is how they will obtain vital in- their content only, but also the material as- formation on the artwork itself, or findings pects.

žurnál 2018 13 They will clarify, for example, what ma- the knowledge about their authorship, pre- ogy for the Arts, which will be started in the terial the studied artwork is made out of, viously not so complete. However, this is academic year 2021/2022. The goal of this what kinds of paint were available to the just one illustrative example with one paint- programme will be to raise a new genera- artist, and what was the origin of pigments ing. Scientists can do much more. Similar tion of outstanding, multidisciplinary-ori- used in the creation. “All these findings, analyses will also be carried out on mon- ented art historians with extension into the with the use of state-of-the-art technolo- uments, churches, and historical palaces, natural sciences,” explained Zapletalová. gies, will reveal to us the artistic technical and the obtained findings will be used in “The interconnection of several disci- procedures of those times. We’ll also im- practice during protection and renovation plines and workplaces will give us a com- prove the maintenance of our historic sites of these objects. pletely new perspective on the protection and artworks thanks to the new findings,” of cultural heritage. It is the first project of added Michalčáková. Unique multidisciplinary its kind in the Czech Republic when high- interconnection ly advanced chemical-physical analysis Paintings, churches, and palaces The activities of the new scientific team should help in our understanding of art. protected by scientists will also be reflected in the academic envi- The project has been prepared for many The practical contribution in the case of the ronment. The changes in the specialisation years at the university. We are very pleased painter Bassano mentioned in the introduc- of the Department of Art History have been that Arteca was selected this year as one tion would be that scientists should be able announced by the department’s head, Jana of the projects supported by the Opera- to discover new additional information. Zapletalová. “In the next months, we will tional Programme ‘Research, Develop- What will it be good for? To put it simply, to extend our curriculum with courses that ment and Education’. We have received al- confirm or refute whether Francesco really will introduce the new possibilities consist- most 2.4 million euro, which sheds some could make this painting in that era. They ing in the application of the natural scienc- light on how prestigious this entire activ- are also capable of finding more informa- es and research within art history. Foreign ity is,” said Dana Bilíková, UP Faculty of tion on previous restoration of the painting, experts visit us every year, and their re- Arts Vice-Dean. According to Bilíková, if any. They will be able to compare their search activities will now include lectures this project is an unprecedented example findings with analyses of artworks from for our students. We have been preparing of close collaboration between the human- other galleries and museums, and expand a new doctoral study programme, Technol- ities and the natural sciences.

A cross-section of the paint- ing, capturing the black layer of undercoat with its specific charcoal content, a layer of azurite above, ochre foundation.

Arteca is a unique exam- ple of interconnecting the humanities and natural sciences. One team brings together experts from the Department of Art History at the UP Faculty of Arts together with chemists and physicists from RCPTM at the UP Faculty of Science.

14 žurnál 2018 portrait

text: Ivana Pustějovská photo: Milada Hronová

Květoslava Princová university teacher, co-founder of the Department of Humanitarian and Social Work

žurnál 2018 15 Květoslava Princová (b. 1950) A graduate of the Prague University of Chemistry and Technology in Macromolecu- lar Chemistry, a signatory of Charter 77, awarded for being a participant in the resistance and opposition to communism, the former head of the office of the Olo- mouc mayor Milan Hořínek; since 1997 she has been working for the Olomouc Archdiocesan Caritas and Caritas Czech Republic in Prague. She contributed to the involvement of Cari- Květa and Jan Princ in the 1970s. “The most important thing for me was the conscious- tas Czech Republic to the ness that if something were to happen, there were a number of people who would help international network of us, who would stand behind us. Since then, I understand just how important it is to humanitarian organisations stand up for somebody. Sure, sometimes you lose, but it’s still important.” and activities Caritas Europa and Caritas Internationalis. The same dream keeps recurring to her: There were students who didn’t go to strikes, In 2003 she co-founded the teaching of humanitarian aid she’s walking through the house, from who stayed home and studied. My dad used at Caritas College of Social room to room, everything is quite familiar, to tell me, with a certain amount of irony and Work in Olomouc and in she opens the door, goes outside, and in the regret: You have to be the first one to march 2007 also a Master’s pro- distance she sees a Baroque church.... It’s an behind the drum.... That I have to be the first gramme in this subject at the odd, comforting dream. The house does not one, anywhere something is happening. It UP Sts Cyril and Methodius exist, she’s never lived in one like it. A per- was a wonderful time, I can remember to this Faculty of Theology. In 2011 son would expect her to dream about dif- day who was performing what, how we slept she received her Ph.D. in ferent houses, those in which during the in sleeping bags, how Prof Wichterle, the in- Applied Ethics. In terms of prior regime she and her friends tried to ventor of soft contact lenses, joined us, the teaching, she deals with eth- create their own community, where they students. Unfortunately, it ended quite tragi- ics in humanitarian aid and farmed, built, held plays: the houses which cally,” she remembers. has elaborated this theme in police invaded with their dogs and machine The die had been cast. She studied, but several publications. guns and drove a family with three children she also became acquainted with the Prague dressed only in their slippers out into the underground society – especially Dana and street, just before Christmas. But mainly Jiří Němec. It was in their flat where she first about the house on the northern Bohemi- found the prototype of her subsequent life. an border, a ruin bought for a few thousand, “Their doors were always open. Diverse out of which they constructed a home, and people would meet there: anybody who into which the secret police threw tear gas wanted to could show up.” When she got grenades – and when that didn’t work, they married, she and her husband had to decide simply blew it to smithereens. But Květosla- where to live. They found and bought a di- va Princová has no such dreams. The dream lapidated house near the German border with the open door for newcomers and with in Rychnov, in the derelict north Bohemian the church, suffused with the hope of light, Děčín district. “In the beginning there were probably describes her destiny, character, three of us, with Miluška Števichová; lat- and work much more than nightmares of er came the singer-songwriter Dáša Ptášk- flying bricks, barking dogs, and endless in- ová and guitarist Zdeněk ‘London’ Vokatý – terrogations. there was always somebody else living with us.” Her description of living in a commune “The first behind the drum...” does not have a lot in common with what I have to count the numbers on my note- you see in films about wild hippie parties. pad twice, because looking at the result and “We had our rules, there were many such the woman in front of me, it doesn’t add up: communes throughout the country and 2018 – 1968 = 50. That's how many years they differed according to their permanent it has been since the girl from the small dwellers. In our place, for example, people Moravian town of Lipník nad Bečvou em- had to do a lot of work.” barked on her university studies in Prague. It was just after August 1968, after the tanks A sense of belonging of our “friends” entered Bohemian and She never had a need to live only for herself, Moravian cities. Květa entered the Prague and building a community, a kind of “par- University of Chemistry and Technology, allel society”, seemed natural to her. “We but before she started studies, she was en- were happy when people were there, the gaged in protests. “It determined my fate. space was huge and abandoned, but with

16 žurnál 2018 people there it was full and alive.” An is- charity offered her work, and she started and they should never stop learning. One land of free spirits did not sit well with the coordinating humanitarian relief. Once of my friends says that humanitarian aid is regime however, especially when the Princ- the Moravian catastrophe receded, Caritas like navigating in the fog. Because it is im- es were among the first to sign Charter 77. Czech Republic began to develop projects portant to know how to understand a situ- Years of repression followed: police checks, on the international level. Květa Princová ation, the context, to be careful, conscien- interrogations, moving, and endless begin- left for Prague and again built a communi- tious, responsible, and have great respect nings. They finally settled in Moravia, not ty – a community of helpers. for the people with whom I come into con- far from Olomouc. tact,” she says, and harks back to the words When she thinks about how they man- Aid as a profession and in the field of the missionary Father Krenický: “If I do aged to get through those years, she an- In 2002, the director of the Caritas College not approach people with respect and only swers somewhat uncomfortably. “It’s hard of Social Work in Olomouc, Martin Bednář, give them something, then I am making to describe. In all that pressure put on us called upon her to create a joint programme beggars out of them.” from the outside, we had a strong sense of aimed at humanitarian and social work. She She is proud of her students and immers- togetherness. The most important thing did not hesitate. “It was approved in record es herself personally in each and every one for me was the consciousness that if some- time – on 15 August 2003 – I remember the of their travels. “We have a kind of symbol at thing were to happen, there were a number date because it is the Feast of the Assump- Caritas – a statue of stories into which stu- of people who would help us, who would tion, and our first amazing class entered dents lay a pebble as a symbol of the fate of stand behind us. Since then, I understand in September.” As a co-founder she also one specific person that they have met on just how important it is to stand up for helped the Sts Cyril and Methodius Facul- a mission. Whenever they lay a new stone, somebody. Sure, sometimes you lose, but ty of Theology during the establishment of I’ve said that that is the stone that fell from it’s still important.” their Master’s programme in International my heart upon their return.” After the change in regimes, she went to Humanitarian and Social Work. At present This year, Květoslava Princová received work for the Olomouc Town Hall. She was her department operates as a specialisation, the UP Commemorative Medal as thanks chosen by the first post-November 1989 under the title International Community for establishing the necessary field. Now mayor, Milan Hořínek, who made use of and Humanitarian Aid in the area of Charity she has decided to retire. “My health no her knowledge of languages as well. In the and Social Work. longer allows me to go with students into mid-1990s she was in charge of internation- Humanitarian aid invokes romantic ide- the field, so it’s time to leave the work to the al relations. “Working for Milan Hořínek as of saving the world. Květa Princová has younger generations,” she explains. But was wonderful, but when he left, the sit- been on humanitarian missions, so she you would look for a full stop to her sen- uation and atmosphere changed, and be- knows there’s nothing romantic about it. tence in vain. Her personal mission has cause I consider myself a political person, “I actually rob students of their ideals,” not ended. She still helps, is engaged, and not a bureaucrat, I also left a little while af- she says with a smile, and without hesi- teaches. Without prompting, she com- ter. And then the floods came,” she remi- tating answers the question: What kind of pletes the sentence, bringing the interview nisces – about 1997, when the Morava Riv- person should a humanitarian aid work- to a happy close: “Listen, look, and do what er had a 1000-year flood. The Archdiocese er be? “They should be extremely humble is needed.”

“An aid worker should be extremely humble and never stop learning. One of my friends says that humani- tarian aid is like navigating in the fog. Because it is important to know how to Jan Sokol Marcela Krejčí understand a situation, the philosopher, dissident, professor UN Youth Volunteer, ICT in Education, context, to be careful, con- at Charles University Ethiopia scientious, responsible, and Right from the first, rather fleeting Květa Princová is an inspiration for me have great respect for the encounter with Květa during the pre- and proof that a person can handle an- people with whom I come vious regime, I was surprised at how ything, that even bad things can make she gave out a sort of special joy to a person stronger when a person aims into contact.” those around her. In the difficult po- toward a goal they believe in. She was sition of a Charter 77 signatory iso- a source of support during my studies, lated in the countryside, she did not she was open to my ideas, and at the same have many reasons to do so. I was re- time, she was patient when I fumbled. minded of that later, when she be- I most appreciated her course Ethics in MK archives | Memory of Nations gan her doctoral studies in Prague. Humanitarian Aid, because it comes out I understood that it is not a reaction of praxis, she removed our rose-tinted to some success or inner happiness; glasses and showed us the reality, which rather it is the joy which grows out was also confirmed on my travels where of hard determination and from the I frequently came into contact with eth- certainty that a person has found ical issues and constant practical dilem- their goal in life. That what they are mas. So in difficult times I would think doing really matters. I’d like to give about Květa: when I felt like giving up her much belated thanks. I would remember her and all the tough things she went through in life due to her trust in good and helping others, through all of that without ever losing her smile, and I would carry on. photos: Masaryk University/CC-BY |

žurnál 2018 17 success

2017 Dean’s Awards at the Faculty of Medicine Almost four dozen awards were grant- in standards has been also possible thanks lect the truly best, most outstanding results ed by the dean of the UP Faculty of Med- to you,” underlined the dean. which strengthen the reputation and the icine and Dentistry for outstanding publi- Eleven researchers from the Institute of good name of our faculty. These are works cations and improvement of professional Molecular and Translational Medicine, the often created in collaboration with interna- qualifications. During the ceremony held Department of Microbiology, the Depart- tional teams, which is a proof that the fac- at the beginning of the proceedings of the ment of Dentistry and Oral Medicine, the ulty is stepping up in quality and is able to faculty’s Academic Board, Dean’s Awards Department of Hemato-Oncology, and the succeed in the fiercest international compe- were presented to 14 academics and 19 Department of Internal Medicine III were tition,” said Vice-Dean Tomáš Papajík. students. given awards for original scientific work Dean’s aAwards were also given in the Certificates and financial awards total- and patents. The awarded works included categories of important monographs, pat- ling more than €30,000 were handed to publications on unique discoveries of the ents, and scientific publications with high this year’s laureates by Dean Milan Kolář. anti-tumour activity of Antabuse, or the de- citation rates. Nineteen students, mostly “Your outstanding work significantly con- fence mechanisms of bacteria against sil- doctoral ones, were awarded for best aca- tributes to the prestige and high scientific ver nanoparticles, published in Nature and demic works. Dean Kolář also granted two standards of our faculty. The improvement Nature Nanotechnology. “Our aim is to se- awards for improved qualifications. (mav)

Dominik Záleský competes with the fastest runners in the world

Sprinter Dominik Záleský, a student at The present academic champion of the the Department of Recreation and Leisure Czech Republic among sprinters has been Studies, is in great shape. His new personal the historically third-fastest Czech sprint- best of 6.61 seconds on the 60-metre track er since January 2018; he rewrote the na- entered the Czech athletic charts and also tional records at the Czech indoor academ- qualified for the 2018 World Indoor Cham- ic championship and again at the following pionships, where he competed with best meeting in Prague’s Stromovka. “During athletes in the world. the first race I felt my start was not as good In Birmingham, where the champion- as I hoped it to be, but I made a new per- ships took place at the beginning of March, sonal best anyway: 6.67 seconds. I knew he ended in 17th place after reaching the though that I had a chance to make the semi-finals, where he made it to the fin- championships limit if I improved my start. ish line in 6.67 seconds. It was not enough And I succeeded. I could say the start was to qualify to the final; however he was not perfect. In the rest of the track, I gave my all disappointed. “The mere fact I managed to to it, and now I’m truly happy,” said Zále- qualify for such a big athletic meeting was ský, commenting on his January results. amazing. Running with the best is why you The fastest Czech sprinter is František do it, and I’m glad I’m even able to defeat Ptáčník, who ran the 60-metre indoor in some of them. Reaching the semi-finals 6.58 seconds in 1987. Dominik Záleský was my goal, and it was fulfilled. I am hap- was only three-hundredths of a second be- py I made it,” said Záleský. hind that. photos: Jan Hromádko Mazochová | Velena | Vojtěch Duda | Ondřej Moučka

18 žurnál 2018 Werner von Siemens Excellence Award for doctoral dissertation from RCPTM

The Werner von Siemens Excellence Award The young scientist focussed on the for the best doctoral dissertation is home in preparation and application of new car- Olomouc. It was granted to Kateřina Holá bon nanostructures especially in biomed- from the Regional Centre of Advanced icine. By linking her expertise in chemis- Technologies and Materials (RCPTM) and try, physics, biology, and medicine, she her tutor Radek Zbořil. His former student managed to design and successfully real- also received a special award for the best fe- ise the synthesis of carbon quantum dots, male doctoral dissertation. which can be used in optical imaging in “Kateřina is a natural-born scientist, medicinal diagnostics, marking cells, or and her talent is further magnified by her anti-tumour therapy. There is also po- immense diligence and industriousness. tential in the development of new LED Last but not least, she is a team player. diodes and photocatalysis. The develop- As a doctoral student, she was capable of ment of new graphene derivatives was independent collaboration and publica- also made possible. Her works have been tions with important scientists from the published in the most prestigious jour- USA, Hong Kong, Greece, and Singapore, nals of material research, such as Nature and she gained their great respect,” said Communications, ACS Nano, and Advan- Zbořil. ced Materials. (srd)

Polish President awarded Jiří Jirásek, Head of UP Department of Constitutional Law

The head of the Department of Constitu- sity (NCU) in Toruń; it was instigated by and Administration, explaining the rea- tional Law at the UP Faculty of Law, Jiří the NCU Faculty of Law and Administra- sons for their proposal. Jirásek, was presented a highly esteemed tion. “Our colleague Jiří Jirásek has great- He pointed out the fact that the collabo- Polish state award – the Golden Cross ly contributed to our closer collaboration. ration between Polish experts and Jirásek for Merit. Polish president Andrzej Duda Thanks to him we have been able to con- has lasted thirty years. “Jiří Jirásek helped awarded him the honour in recognition of stantly develop Polish and Czech rela- to initiate the idea of Polish-Czech le- his long-term contributions to strengthen- tionships, not only in science. A genuine gal seminars which take place biannual- ing Polish-Czech cooperation in science friendship between Poland and Czechia is ly. The proceedings from these seminars and the arts, bringing both nations closer being successfully built. Jiří has also been are highly appreciated in academic cir- together. long active in making Polish law more vis- cles. The seminars feature experts from The award was given upon a propos- ible in the Czech Republic,” said Zbigniew all Czech law faculties,” said Witkowski, al made by Nicolaus Copernicus Univer- Witkowski, Dean of the Faculty of Law prior to mentioning the further merits of Jirásek and his team. “They have partici- pated in extensive research grants, taught at our faculty, and are members of editorial boards in Polish scholarly journals, includ- ing the most important ones focussing on constitutional law in Poland.” Associate Professor Jirásek perceives the Polish state award as recognition of the work made by the entire team at the Depart- ment of Constitutional Law. “The entire de- partment takes part in collaboration with Polish partners. It is, however, an acknowl- edgement for our faculty, too. Our manage- ment gives us plenty of space for developing Czech and Polish relations and supports such cooperation,” said Jirásek. He is only the third foreigner to receive the Golden Cross for Merit on a proposal by Nicolaus Copernicus University. (eha)

žurnál 2018 19 success

Olomouc second best in scientific activities among medical faculties

In the evaluation of science and research, va – just like in the previous three years. State finances received for RIV points the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry in “This great achievement reflects upon the represent an important part of the overall Olomouc is among the most successful in outstanding scientific quality of the facul- budget for the faculty, amounting to more the Czech Republic. It was confirmed by ty. I owe a big thank you to all the academ- than 22 percent. The methodology of dis- the evaluation of results by research organ- ic workers who contributed to this great re- tributing finances acquired from this quar- isations in 2016, where the Olomouc facul- sult,” said Dean Milan Kolář. ter is based on the performance of each de- ty placed second after the First Faculty of The UP Faculty of Medicine and Den- partment and scientific team according to Medicine, Charles University in Prague, tistry had the best results in the category of their RIV points, paid in full. “The knowl- which defended first place. points scored for publications in journals edge that the more one of our departments According to the results verified by the with impact factor. “It involves particular- is successful, the more financial resources Czech government at the end of 2017, the ly those findings published in quality peri- they will have at hand for their own devel- Olomouc faculty received a total of 32,873 odicals. These are journals ranked in the opment, is one of the prerequisites for the RIV (Result Information Register) points first decile, or quartile, in professional da- prosperity of the entire faculty as an impor- in 2016, thus surpassing other medical fac- tabases, according to the impact factor,” tant science-research institution,” Kolář ulties in Brno, Prague, Pilsen, and Ostra- explained the dean. pointed out. (mav)

Magnesia Litera Award arrives to the Faculty of Arts

The prestigious Czech literary award Mag- historian Švácha. He claims that there are nesia Litera 2018 belongs to Palacký Uni- huge differences between individual hous- versity, too. The best educational publica- ing estates. “The golden age of Czech pub- tion is a two-volume book Paneláci [Panel lic housing was the 1960s, when so-called Estates], written by a team of authors, with ‘attractive housing estates’ were built,” he Rostislav Švácha from the Department of added. Art History at the UP Faculty of Arts as one A translation award also made its way to of its leaders. the Faculty of Arts. The best Magnesia Lit- The two-volume publication pro- era work of literature in translation was the vides a detailed view of the history of humorous novel Hřbitovní hlína (Cré na Czech housing estates. Its editors, Lucie Cille; in English, The Dirty Dust and Gra- Skřivánková and Švácha and their team of veyard Clay) by Máirtín Ó Cadhain. It was authors, explore fifty housing estates built translated from Irish into Czech by Radvan within fifty years from the perspective of Markus, an external lecturer at the Depart- architecture history, urbanism, sociology, ment of English and American Studies. “Cré historic preservation, and even historic de- na Cille is considered the best Irish-written mography. “Czech society has had a criti- novel of the twentieth century, and it was no cal attitude to the panel housing estates piece of cake,” said Markus. He was award- since the 1980s, and our first task was to ed for a precise translation which had to in- distinguish which estates are a success, corporate dialect and many colloquial vul-

and which less so,” explained architecture garisms. photos: Magnesia Litera | Nicolaus Copernicus University | Ota in Toruń Blahoušek

20 žurnál 2018 New derivatives protect skin from harmful radiation

A new series of substances that can protect The team has been making various human skin from the harmful effects of ul- changes in the kinetin molecule and has traviolet radiation, were developed by sci- been monitoring the impact of the struc- entists from the Olomouc workplace of the ture change on molecule biological activ- Institute of Experimental Botany (IEB) of ity. Various derivatives were then tested the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Re- on human skin cells in vitro, i.e. under lab- public, a part of the Centre of the Region oratory conditions. “We first confirmed Haná for Biotechnological and Agricultural that the substances are not phototoxic, Research (CRH), in collaboration with col- that they do not become dangerous un- leagues at the UP Faculty of Medicine and der UV radiation. We have subsequently Dentistry. The promising substances could shown that they even contribute to pro- find their use in cosmetics and medicine. tecting skin cells by modulating their nat- Researchers focused on kinetin-based ural defences,” said the project coordina- substances and examined their effects tor, Lucie Plíhalová. on human skin cells. The study was pub- Caenorhabditis elegans, a soil nema- lished in the European Journal of Medici- tode serving as a model organism for the nal Chemistry. study of stress and ageing, was exposed “For the first time, we have found that to the action of new derivatives. “We have cytokinins and their derivatives can pro- found that our substances protect the tect skin cells from the harmful effects of nematode from the oxidation stress that both types of ultraviolet radiation (UVB we artificially initiated. Not only the cells and UVA). It is also important to find that in the tissue culture but also the whole or- our substances support the natural defence ganism is thus protected against stress,” of skin cells,” said the first author of the pa- added Plíhalová. According to her, a for- per, Martin Hönig from CRH, who con- eign cosmetic company is now testing the ducts the research within his doctoral the- derivatives for further use in the cosmetic sis at the UP Faculty of Science. industry. (srd)

Medal for Petra Šobáňová, Vice-Dean at the Faculty of Education

Petra Šobáňová, Vice-Dean for Develop- sions in Public Service and Administra- ment and External Relations at the UP tion. The study programme Museum and Faculty of Education, received the Palacký Gallery Education is still the only one of its University Commemorative Medal for kind in the Czech education system. her conception of the unique study pro- “When you start new things, you usually gramme Museum and Gallery Education. face hardships. Although education in cul- The award was handed to her by the facul- ture, especially in the field of museums and ty’s dean, Libuše Ludíková. galleries, has a long-standing tradition in “I appreciate the award very much. It be- the Czech Republic and is fully comparable longs not only to me, but also my colleagues with what they have abroad, it took us thir- who participated in the establishment of ty years to make legal changes concerning the programme and supported its devel- the status of this profession. I am pleased opment at our faculty,” said Šobáňová. The that it was our professional and education- honour was also supported by Vlastislav al activities that facilitated the develop- Ouroda, Deputy Minister for Cultural Her- ment of museum and gallery education in itage, who highlighted the contribution of the Czech Republic, and I believe our facul- this study programme to the development ty will further develop this discipline. Cul- of Czech museum education. In his letter tural heritage is what shapes our identity, sent to the faculty dean, he acknowledged bears our society’s memory, and indicates the help of Šobáňová in preparations for useful historical parallels and the perma- entering the new profession “culture ed- nent values of human community,” added ucator” in the Czech Catalogue of Profes- Šobáňová. (map)

žurnál 2018 21 Course in Contemporary kaleidoscope Chemistry aroused huge interest

Na tělo [Up Close] – a documentary on photographer Jindřich Štreit

Up Close. This is what director Libuše Rudinská titled her feature-length doc- Heart surgeon Jan Pirk, mathemati- umentary film on photographer Jindřich cian and benefactor Karel Janeček, art Štreit. The film captures three years in historian Jan Royt, and psychiatrist the life of this artist and UP alumnus. Cyril Höschl were the guests of this “The three years were very hectic ones. year’s 13th annual course in Contem- Personally, I much appreciate that the porary Chemistry, led by Czech Mind film also captures my relationship with winner Pavel Hobza at the UP Facul- my wife Agnes, which is so important ty of Science. Lectures which this time for me,” said Jindřich Štreit. And he also touched more upon today’s pressing likes Libuše Rudinská’s perspective. society problems than on chemistry “There’s not one exhibition opening in aroused great interest in the members the film. During that time I had the feel- of the academic community and the ing I was living from opening to opening. public alike. Of course the film also captures my work “I said that the 13th year ought to and its themes. But in the end, I have the be different, unique. I tried to meet feeling that my photographic work in the the demands of students and invite film is not what is crucial. It’s more like guests who could contribute to find- my own personal confession, and that ing answers to those questions which is where this film differs from previous we pose most often today. At the same ones on me. This one is really up close,” time, I wanted to fulfil the main role said Štreit. (ipu) of the lecture cycle – to bring leading scientists to Olomouc. Students again realised that science is a beautiful ad- venture,” said Hobza, the main or- University for sport ganiser and moderator of the lecture course. (srd) This is the title of a newly-launched project which develops cooperation between UP and sporting clubs in Olomouc. The project offers for example study stays, interest- ing lectures with people from the sporting world, coaches and experts, and mutual ex- change of sporting facilities. It was the idea of Michal Zbraněk (pictured), a student at the Faculty of Physical Culture. “I was inspired by Great Britain, where similar cooperation between univer- sities and football clubs exists,” he explained. UP supported the project in the auspic- es of the contest “University to the Town”. The project was also supported by the City of Olomouc, and it included the SK Sigma Olomouc football team, as well as the VK UP Olomouc volleyball club, the HC Olo- mouc hockey club, the DHK Zora Olomouc basketball club, and Golf Resort Olomouc. “We entered the cooperation with the motto ‘The best for the best’ and its aim is to con- nect the knowledge potential of UP with the many years of experience of its sporting clubs. It’s a way to increase competitiveness and benefit the entire region,” said UP FPC Dean Michal Šafář. (tf)

22 žurnál 2018 kaleidoscope

Deans of five UP faculties took their inaugural oaths UPoint celebrated its third anniversary During the inauguration ceremonies at Olomouc’s Archbishop’s Palace, the deans named for the next four years were Libuše Ludíková at the Faculty of Education, During its three years, the UP shop Zdeněk Pechal at the Fac- and information centre has been vis- ulty of Arts, Martin Ku- ited by thousands of people who have bala at the Faculty of Sci- had the opportunity to view exhibi- ence, and Michal Šafář tions, join interesting lectures by UP at the Faculty of Physical personalities, or simply sit and have Culture. They each took a nice cup of coffee. Many visitors have office at the beginning of come and still come for a specific pur- February. Jaroslav Vomáč- pose – to buy something from the uni- ka, Dean of the Faculty of versity’s unique brand of clothing, ac- Healthcare Sciences since cessories, mugs, stationery, and even March of last year, also ac- beer. UPoint is also innovatively invit- cepted his dean’s insignia ing those who want to save the envi- from the hands of Rector ronment. “We are happy to have joined Jaroslav Miller. (mav) the project DOLEJ SI [FILL ’ER UP!], which falls under the auspices of the student initiative Sustainable Palacký. New exhibition reveals the code of life From our very start, we have been of- fering free tap water, and we intend to Searching for the Code of Life. This is the name of the new exhibition area at Fort Sci- continue that,” said UPoint director, ence, which the popular science centre has prepared in cooperation with the Olomouc Anna Jílková. (ipu) branch of the Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IEB), part of the Centre of the Haná Region for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research. The installation acquaints visitors with research in plant genetics and makes use of the latest findings in crop breeding and providing enough foodstuffs for mankind. Visitors can better understand the process of cell division and passing on hereditary information. “Thanks to the microscope, they can see individual phases of the process with their own eyes, and then follow what’s happening on the LCD screen,” said Ale- na Vláčilová, coordinator of the biology section. According to plant geneticist Jaroslav Doležel of the IEB, the ex- hibition area will continue to expand: “In the future we want to show how we make use of chromosomes in facil- itating reading of the genetic information. Scientific find- ings on genetic information are developing so incredibly quickly that what one had to learn in school is now obso- lete. Our exhibition is thus intended for both children and adults.” (mv)

Photos: V. Černoch, Czech Academy of Sciences | V. Mazochová | M. Šaradínová | V. Duda

žurnál 2018 23 text: Tomáš Franta university town photo: Milada Hronová

UniON – the University sets forth into the region

Not to be a closed world, open only for ac- and through the volunteering of its teach- tional forms of presentation, and meet peo- ademics and students, but on the contra- ers and students, offers its potential and ple from various parts of the Czech Repub- ry – to set forth into the region, far beyond expertise to interested parties.” lic and various social and age groups.” the boundaries of the university gates, to The UniON is conceived as a pilot proj- The key themes will include the issues help solve problems, explain novelties, in- ect and Palacký University believes it will of legal and financial literacy, debt coun- troduce interesting personalities, and dis- inspire other universities. According to selling, critical evaluation of information, cuss hot issues – all of this and more is in- Vice-Rector Petr Bilík, at this stage it is the issue of historic and contemporary volved in the latest volunteering activity of necessary to verify interest in individual Czech statehood and nationality, medical Palacký University – its Civic University. themes and formats, while in the coming prevention, and basic orientation in crisis The project is called UniON, and UP winter term the project could run at full situations. The volunteers, however, will students and teachers are meant to trav- throttle: “The logo, title, and expertise are be open to all kinds of incentives and will el into the wider Olomouc region, without now available to all universities. We will gladly prepare a programme “tailored” being paid, and organise various educa- gladly share and consult everything that is according to what is deemed urgent or rel- tional presentations and thematical cours- needed so that the educational mission of evant by the interested parties. “We ex- es by invitation. the project could be used with maximum pect municipalities, secondary schools, One of the main authors and initiators of efficiency.” seniors clubs, and various interest associ- the idea is Rector Jaroslav Miller. “Accord- As Vice-Rector Jiří Lach (pictured right, ations to be interested in the project. We ing to the Czech University Law, universi- with Petr Bilík) reminds, the duty of the have abundant experience in education ties are assigned the role of institutions that university is to strive for contact with the of all kinds of target groups; however the are supposed to influence not only their non-university environment. “If we believe UniON project has higher ambitions, and students, but also the broader public. This that education has no borders, then we I trust in its success,” says Palacký Uni- is why Palacký University, free of charge have to leave the classrooms and our tradi- versity Rector Jaroslav Miller.

The author of the logo for the initiative UniON is graphic artist Radim Měsíc. The pun, using an English expression, expresses the desire for mutual “union”, as well as readiness for action (“ON”) in terms of this new challenge for Czech universities.

24 žurnál 2018 text: Ivana Pustějovská photos: Gabriela Knýblová interview

Tomáš Lebeda: Referendums are my nightmare

žurnál 2018 25 Tomáš Lebeda (b. 1976) Associate Professor of He doesn’t like sweeping condemnations ter Andrej Babiš – O čem sním, když náhodou Political Science and Head of of politicians, and phrases such as “they’re spím [What I Dream About, When by Chance the Department of Political all the same” and “corruption is every- I Sleep], a book distributed for free – would be Science and European where”. “I often meet with politicians, and a constitutional massacre. If the chapter ded- Studies at the UP Faculty there are a number of them that I wouldn’t icated to constitutional reforms would actu- of Arts. He graduated from share a glass of wine with. But I also know ally be carried out, then we would cease to be Jan Evangelista Purkyně that there are enough decent people among a democracy. That vision is extremely dan- University and Charles them, people I respect, and who often have gerous. Although he’s said that it is a long- University. He received his the misfortune of being lumped together un- term vision, that’s not the point. I’m imput- doctorate and habilitation fairly with the rest. I think that politics is one ing that the book was not written by Andrej of the least rewarding professions,” he says, Babiš, but by a number of people, patched from Charles University. and he knows what he is talking about. He together from the most diverse sources. Per- He specialises in elections, studies, analyses, and explains politics, and haps they are not even aware of how danger- electoral systems, and he also lectures on politics and political the- ous the compilation they’ve proposed really is electoral behaviour. He is also ory. And that is why it is worth a listen and in the area of constitutional changes. interested in the influence worth thinking about, when he says that the of constitutionally-defined Czech Republic has never experienced true ——What is the greatest threat in institutional mechanisms on democracy. Tomáš Lebeda, political scientist Babiš’s vision? the political process and the and head of the Department of Political Sci- He proposes eliminating the upper house broader fields of comparative ence and European Studies at the UP Facul- of Parliament – the Senate – and reducing empirical analytical political ty of Arts. the number of representatives in the lower science. He has published house by one-half. The ranked-choice voting essays in Czech and foreign ——We’re half-way through the year system would be changed to a simple major- peer-reviewed impact 2018 – how would you rate it, as a po- ity system, and regional governments would journals and books. He litical scientist? be dissolved. A similar treatment would be- completed a study stay at the The start of the year was quite intense in fall town councils, which – according to London School of Economics Lidové terms of politics. The Czech Republic held a statement by Andrej Babiš in the and Political Science and the second direct presidential election in noviny newspaper – are unnecessary. Only an internship at the British its history, and it was the first in which the the mayor would remain, chosen by popular House of Commons. president had to defend his mandate. In my vote. This would result in the liquidation of opinion, it was not a very happy experience, democracy on both the community and dis- because we are all witnesses as to how the trict levels. Only a quite limited sort of de- president created precedents which I for one mocracy would remain on the national level, don’t think should have been created. and it would result in a huge centralisation of power. Important issues would be decid- ——Such as? ed by referendums –which, by the way, are Such as that he didn’t take part in any prima- my nightmare. Sure, we can find parallels ries prior to the first round and that he had in Western Europe for every step proposed separate PR in the media friendly to him, that in the book. But you cannot find a single de- he did not take part in the debate with other mocracy in which all of these things, or even candidates in the first round, and that he dis- the majority of them, would work altogether. tanced himself from his own campaign, be- And therein lies the danger. cause that campaign evidently did take place and it was a dirty one. So a formula was cre- ——Do you think that Czech society is ated for running a presidential campaign, aware of the price of democracy? and not a very good one. He also whipped up I’m afraid that we do not appreciate democ- a quite big dose of populism, with the result racy, and do not even understand it very well. that the society was divided again, even more Our contemporary awareness of what de- than it had been before. I think that having di- mocracy should look like has not changed rect presidential elections is not beneficial to much since 1990, and that’s sad. Few cit- politics in this country. izens have a good idea of how democracy should work, what tools we have at our dis- ——People speak of a threat to de- posal, what we can and should desire from mocracy, a change of course. Do you our elected representatives. Instead they believe that that would threaten us? have expectations which are often unrealis- Yes, I do. There are parties here which do not tic and rather led by anger toward how some only not respect the Constitution of the Czech of their earlier conceptions from the past did Republic, but are basically openly speaking of not come about. That frustration from their changing it. I’m talking about first SPD (the unfulfilled expectations is ascribed to de- Freedom and Direct Democracy Party), and mocracy. But that is not the case. We have a bit less vocally, but basically for some time never yet experienced true democracy here. the Communist Party has also been talking What we have had is a process of democratic about this, and last but not least ANO (Ac- transformations, followed by consolidation. tion for Dissatisfied Citizens Party) has also The process, in my opinion, has stopped. not been reticent about mentioning a num- I have been noticing rather reverse tenden- ber of changes to the Constitution. When cies, and it seems to me that as a society, we you read the ANO documents, its platform are not creating strong enough pressure on in this direction is rather sobering. For exam- the political elite in order to better democ- ple the book by its leader, Czech Prime Minis- racy. On the contrary, it seems to me that

26 žurnál 2018 authoritarian tendencies are growing and strengthening, attitudes that democracy is no longer the optimal system of government and that it would be much better if some- one with a firm hand governed this country, someone who would put things in “order”.

——How would it be possible to change the political culture in this country? There’s only one way – which is long and slow – and that is systematic strengthening of civic consciousness, political literacy, and democratic conviction. There are a number of forms which could be used, for example civic education. I’m not talking about only teaching children in school, but across all the age groups in society. Here this kind of method has an uncomfortable connotation, because we still recall our political education these types of governments are looking for stances, referendums are an extremely dan- from the era of the communist regime. solutions which would be acceptable for the gerous tool. Democracy can easily be de- broadest cross-section of society. stroyed via the use of referendums. And then ——Do we have a place to go for inspi- But the problem with referendums is that there is no way back. ration? they go in exactly the opposite direction. For example the Germans implemented civ- They are radically divisive: You’re either for ——Supporters of referendums usually ic education after WWII. They have a sys- or against: a winner or a loser. Nothing in be- use Switzerland as an example to tem of political foundations which are es- tween, no consensus. When people support follow.... tablished by political parties and which look a referendum, then they always see them- That’s right, there referendums have been after them. They even have a federal centre selves on the side of the winners, and only used for a long time and they are actually for political education and they pour huge rarely count on the fact that they might end used for what they were primarily intended. sums into this area. Thanks to that, they among the 49 percent of losers. I wonder if But Switzerland differs from the Czech Re- have actually managed to make Germans they would support referendums, if they tru- public at the outset in several essential items: into democrats. It’s not the result of some ly realised that they could bring about a very it has hundreds of years of continual democ- kind of brainwashing. Germans grasp these radical solution, and that they could very racy under which the people have been polit- principles and understand them. And such easily become one of the defeated, or be de- ically socialised. They know the system well, people are then much more likely to defend feated for a very long time. they understand it. In addition, their referen- democracy, and they are less inclined to fall dums are accompanied by impartial informa- prey to populism. There is one more thing ——A number of European countries tion campaigns. The government prepares which can be seen in the German example. however do make use of referen- materials for all citizens – arguments for and In the former federal lands, where systemat- dums. So where is the danger there, against – on the basis of which they can de- ic political education did not take place and according to you? cide with erudition. I don’t believe it would they have decades of communism behind In the majority of countries which use or be like that here. And despite everything I’ve them, the people there are much more in- have used mass referendums, the ideals have just said – they are democrats, who know clined to populism. This is happening even not been fulfilled which connect the major- how to work with information, who are used despite the fact that the federal government ity of people – that is, a larger proportion to thinking things over before voting – it was has invested big money there. And so this of citizens taking part in the political deci- Switzerland which due to referendums gave is why I think it’s a shame that in the 1990s, sion-making process. Take a look at the cur- women the vote only in 1972, and entered people here underestimated civic and demo- rent French Fifth Republic, for example, the UN only at the end of the 20th centu- cratic education. The feeling prevailed that i.e. France since 1958. President Charles de ry. So even that country committed a num- people would understand it on their own. Gaulle drafted a number of referendums, ber of things which never would have been And they did. Each to his or her own. Unfor- which however were never used in order that possible in countries with standard repre- tunately, not in favour of democracy. more people would take part in political de- sentative democracies. Now just imagine if cision-making. He used them to strengthen you put such a system into place in a country ——You said that referendums are his position at the expense of parliament. On with an emerging democracy and into a soci- your nightmare. Why? the other hand, de Gaulle had such class that ety which is very weakly convinced that de- Referendums are often defined as one of the in 1969 he stepped down after the announce- mocracy is the best method of governance. most quality forms of democratic participa- ment of the negative result of a referendum, It’s a recipe for catastrophe. tion. From the professional point of view, because he evaluated it as him having lost the this is nonsense. Modern democracy is try- people’s support. By the way, that was a ref- ——In terms of the development of ing to find consensual solutions, trying so erendum about transforming the Senate. Czech politics and changes in the that the fewest number of people in society When we look at pre-WWII Germany and political culture in the near future, have the feeling that political decisions are the referendums which Adolf Hitler draft- are you an optimist? going against them. Especially in the “con- ed, which had massive voter turnout and In recent years I have not been too optimis- sociational” democracies – like for exam- huge support, a tingle runs up and down our tic, I haven’t had many reasons to be. I don’t ple Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, spines. Germany well understood why after like to make predictions, but I also don’t have and Austria – these are countries where they WWII it banned referendums on the federal too many reasons to think that Czech pol- have always attempted to apply such solu- level. We know that through the use of polit- itics will improve qualitatively. It certainly tions, in which the widest range of politi- ical propaganda, society can be fairly easily doesn’t look that way. But I would be very cal parties were involved. In other words – and effectively manipulated. In such circum- pleased to be proven wrong.

žurnál 2018 27 text: Martina Šaradínová science photos: RCPTM

Bacterial resistance to silver nanoparticles can be overcome

For scientists and doctors, silver nanoparticles are a great hope in the fight against bacterial infec- tions. They are already used today, for example in local antibiotic therapy and prevention of de- veloping bacterial infections; they have been proven to have antibacterial effects in combination with existing antibiotics. A new and very important finding on this issue has been made in the research of scientists from the Reginal Centre of Advanced technologies and Materials (RCPTM), the UP Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, and the Centre of the Region Haná for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, dealing with bacterial resistance to nanosilver. The revolutionary dis- covery was published in January on the cover page of the journal Nature Nanotechnology.

The antibacterial properties of silver have phyla, were reported in 2006 in the Amer- ance induced by repeated exposure to na- been known for centuries. The ancient ican Chemical Society’s Journal of Physi- nosilver, which could weaken or eliminate Romans used silver vessels and put silver cal Chemistry B. The work sparked intense its antibacterial activity. Bacteria have al- coins into milk to keep it fresh for a longer academic interest via citations and started ready developed resistance to several anti- period of time. Scientists from Olomouc a boom in the study and applications of na- biotics, reducing their medical usefulness. have been studying the biological effects nosilver. The increasing use of silver nano- After five years of study, the team discov- of noble metal nanoparticles for twen- particles in commercial products prompt- ered that bacteria can indeed develop re- ty years. The details of their effects on di- ed the team at Olomouc to consider the sistance to nanosilver, but it can be easily verse bacteria, including highly resistant possible emergence of bacterial resist- overcome.

28 žurnál 2018 Bacteria shield themselves with with flagellin. “Resistance can be easily of the most important issues in medicine the protein flagellin overcome by adding substances that sup- today, and I am sure its urgency will only “It is well known that silver nanoparti- press the formation and release of flagel- increase. Every year, hundreds of thou- cles lose their antimicrobial activity if they lin. Suitable substances are found in pome- sands of people die because antibiotics are come together to form larger particles granate extracts, among other things. If losing their effectiveness against bacteria known as aggregates. We have discov- such extracts are applied together with sil- that have developed antibiotic resistance ered that flagellar bacteria can exploit this ver nanoparticles, the bacteria do not pro- as a result of genetic changes. The bacteri- Achilles’ heel: upon repeated exposure to duce flagellin and therefore lose their re- al resistance has become so significant that nanosilver, they start producing the protein sistance to silver nanoparticles,” explained we sometimes have at disposal only one or flagellin from their flagella. This protein Libor Kvítek from RCPTM, who has pio- two antibiotics that can be applied,” point- first reduces the repulsive forces between neered nanosilver research in Olomouc. ed out Milan Kolář, the head of the Depart- the nanoparticles and then acts like glue, ment of Microbiology at the UP Faculty of causing the nanoparticles to stick to one Chance to address the global Medicine and a leading specialist in the another and lose their antibacterial prop- antibiotics crisis study and treatment of bacterial infections. erties,” said Aleš Panáček from RCPTM, The mechanism was confirmed in flagellar He agrees that silver nanoparticles offer an the first author of the work, identifying it as bacteria, which are clinically very signifi- opportunity how to deal with this crisis. a unique resistance mechanism. cant. They often cause nosocomial (hos- “They are undoubtedly an important tool The finding that the mechanism of re- pital acquired) infections. These are asso- in the prevention of development of bacte- sistance differs significantly from regular ciated with very high mortality, since the rial infections as well as in local treatment. mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, when bacteria are so resistant that doctors can We also know that silver nanoparticles are bacteria undergo a change in genetic infor- barely find an effective cure. The research effective against multi-resistant bacteria, mation, was a piece of good news because will, however, involve other types of bacte- and are able to almost magically restore an- such a weapon can be countered. It was not ria as well – such as staphylococci – which tibiotics’ activity after they lose efficiency,” too difficult, therefore, to find a helper that also become highly resistant. “The resist- said Kolář. would not let bacteria protect themselves ance of bacteria against antibiotics is one The long-standing overuse of antibiot-

A cell culture plate containing a sensitive phylum of the bac- a b terium E. coli and stable silver particles (a) and a plate contain- ing a resistant E. coli phylus and non-stable aggregated silver par- ticles (the dark clot) (b).

The comparison of aggregation of non-stable silver nanoparticles a b and formation of silver coagulum under the effect of flagellin – the Eppendorf tube on the left in the picture (a) and (b), with stable sil- ver nanoparticles in dispersion – the Eppendorf tube on the right in the pictures (a) and (b).

The growth of resistant E. coli bacteria and the formation of aggregated silver nanoparticles in soil extract agar.

žurnál 2018 29 ics during the second half of the last centu- therefore developed a technology protect- ry has caused increasing levels of bacterial ed by European and American patents. It is “The resistance of bacteria antibiotic resistance and thus the imminent not uncommon that silver nanoparticles are against antibiotics is one of inability to treat bacterial infections. Ex- added on the surface of medical and textile the most important issues perts are concerned that antibiotics will materials and tools. “This kind of antimi- in medicine today, and I am completely lose their effectiveness within crobial surface treatment prevents the for- sure its urgency will only twenty or thirty years. So all the more mo- mation of bacterial films, and several com- increase.” tivated are Olomouc scientists. Among oth- panies in Europe have shown interest in its er places, they look for domestic and foreign use. We think this is the way forward, be- Milan Kolář partners in order to be able to advance the cause the tight binding of silver nanoparti- research to the stage of testing on animal cles prevents their aggregation, and hence models. However, the journey to the use of also the occurrence of flagellin-based bac- silver nanoparticles in low, non-toxic con- terial resistance, while simultaneously pre- centrations together with antibiotics, is still venting the nanoparticles from being re- very long; optimistic estimation is fifteen to leased into the body or the environment,” twenty years. Silver nanoparticles are pres- said Radek Zbořil, RCPTM Director and ently used in local antibiotic therapy, main- a corresponding author of the work pub- ly in the form of ointments, for example on lished in Nature Nanotechnology. burns and varicose ulcers. They are also The scientists from Olomouc have re- present in a number of cosmetic products. ported several other important results in re- cent years, describing, among other things, Strong anchoring of silver the high activity of silver nanoparticles nanoparticles against yeasts. The January study in Nature Another option how to overcome the bacte- Nanotechnology was the first paper written rial resistance to nanosilver is to use strong exclusively by Czech authors that has been chemical bonds to anchor silver nanopar- published in this, the world’s most prestig- ticles to materials such as plastics, metals, ious journal on nanotechnologies. and textiles. The team from Olomouc has

Silver nanoparticles up to an average size of 100 nanometres show antimicro- bial activity. Only such particles are able to prevent the growth of bacterial colonies, even in small concentrations. In addition, they are efficient against many bacteria resistant to antibiotics. With increasing average size, the antimi- crobial effect of silver nanoparticles decreases.

30 žurnál 2018 text: Ivana Pustějovská photo: Milada Hronová endowment fund Give Opportunity: Support young talent

Palacký University has started a big dona- reaucratic,” said Palacký University Rector port of talented students and young scien- tion campaign for its Endowment Fund. By Jaroslav Miller. tists and academics. Education, in my opin- means of its motto “Give Opportunity”, the Students can also get contributions to- ion, is something that our society should university is turning to its alumni and spon- ward airfare, accommodation at foreign push further, and in doing so support not sors to support its talented students, young universities or academic and scientific cen- only the future of Olomouc but also the en- academics, and scientists. It’s the first cam- tres, for materials necessary to their re- tire Czech Republic in world-wide com- paign of its type in the Czech Republic. The search, books, etc. The contribution, up to petition,” said Pavel Jörka, Director of the UP Endowment Fund was inspired by uni- 7800 euros maximum, is for one year. Per- Česká spořitelna corporate centre in Olo- versities abroad, where similar models of sons receiving support are decided upon by mouc. A number of famous alumni have al- supporting university projects are the norm. the Fund’s Board of Directors. The main cri- ready decided to support the Fund. Their The Fund was founded in 2015 and its aim teria are what results the project will bring, names are inscribed on the Donors plaque is to support international scientific, aca- and the motivation of students to carry out at UPoint – the university information cen- demic, research, and artistic activities of UP research and/or create something. “Stu- tre and shop on Olomouc’s Upper Square. students. At the same time, it teaches young dents from all eight UP faculties have been One of them is the UP alumnus, neona- academics, scientists, and artists to popu- supported, and that includes 23 student tologist, and senator, Lumír Kantor. “What larise their activities and communicate their study stays abroad, in countries such as could be closer to me, professionally, than message to others. During its existence, the the USA, France, Sweden, Germany and to support students, the younger genera- fund has divided more than 75 000 euros China,” the campaign’s coordinator Dita tion, and future leaders – not only in medi- among students which it has received from Palaščáková added. cine – in order that they don’t lose their mo- its general partner, Česká spořitelna – Czech The goal of the campaign “Give Oppor- tivation, enthusiasm, and drive into projects Savings Bank. “Thanks to the Fund, talent- tunity” is not only to acquaint the public that they believe in and make sense? I’m ed students can fulfil their academic dreams. with the fund’s activities, but also to collect a supporter of the activities of the UP En- In addition to getting the experience of man- over 50 000 euros for 15 student projects dowment Fund, and I hope the numbers of aging their own projects, they can also trav- per year. To date, they have been mainly fi- our donors club will only increase.” el to prestigious scientific and academic nanced by the fund's main sponsor – Česká You can support the campaign “Give Op- workplaces all over the world, and introduce spořitelna. “I’m proud that we’re the UP portunity” via the UP Endowment Fund their academic models there. The support Endowment Fund’s general partner, and website by clicking on the icon “Chci daro- is based on trust, it is effective and non-bu- that in this way we can take part in the sup- vat příležitost”.

“Every donor gets a confirmation of their gift, which is tax-deductible. We also offer donators various benefits, according to the size of their donations. We are grateful for every donation. We even have students contributing five euros at a time to the fund. It’s not so much about the size of the donations. What is important is making society aware of it; and especially, that anyone can give opportunity to someone.” Dita Palaščáková

Three of the supported students in front of the Donors plaque. From left to right: Vladimír Skalický (Faculty of Science), Barbora Pařízková (Faculty of Science), and Luděk Plachký (Faculty of Law)

žurnál 2018 31 hi-tech text and photo: Martin Višňa

The BALUO Application Centre: Attracting crowds for the uniqueness of its equipment and its comprehensive services

A swimming team, a regional football acad- data outdoors, and last but not least, the ap- undergo comprehensive stress and medi- emy, and the skier Jan Hudec, who trained plication will also display heart rate. We’re cal diagnostics here with us, and in the end for the Winter Olympics here. This is but testing the system in cooperation with Brno they will get a certificate of sports eligibil- a tiny list of the individuals, teams, and or- ice hockey players, where we see great po- ity. At the same time, we are carrying out ganisations who have made use of the ser- tential regarding benefits in the efficacy of scientific research activities in the area of vices offered by the BALUO Application training,” said David Prycl, who is respon- sports and physical education medicine,” Centre of the UP Faculty of Physical Cul- sible for transfer technology at BALUO. said Martin Sigmund, the centre’s direc- ture. People come there for its modern tech- Recently the centre has begun coopera- tor, adding that the zone will also include nology, such as the camera system in the tion with the Latvian company EchoSport, a physiotherapy unit. swimming pools; or the geolocation system and is testing its software for depicting real Recreational athletes can also visit the in the Testing Hall, which makes possible time data on the movement of players for BALUO Application Centre. Either as re- valuable data gathering for their training. various indoor sports, providing coaches search participants, when they take part This geolocation system, which is able with instant feedback. in an annual registration and diagnostic to determine the position of players on the BALUO does not offer only modern measuring, or within organised courses, court down to a centimetre, is unique in technology, but also more or less compre- of which there are many on offer – from Czechia, and offers huge potential for in- hensive services, including refreshments, swimming to trampoline and gymnas- novations. “Together with the Sewio com- and accommodation at the dormitories in tics, to the most diverse exercises in mo- pany, we have a grant to develop software the Neředín campus. For example, one in- tion studies and at the fitness centre. And for analysing the measured data, which we novation is its Medical Zone. “We’ve creat- BALUO is now preparing for example then evaluate for individual sports in order ed conditions for the creation of a non-state a high-tech functional training zone. At to reach maximum precision according to medical facility, which would provide ser- present, two thousand clients make use of the specifics of a given sport. During our vices in the area of sports medicine. This its services. Other interested parties will joint research, we also developed equip- means that clients from sporting clubs and find all the necessary information at the ment with which we’ll be able to measure associations can have the opportunity to site www.acbaluo.cz.

The BALUO Application Centre is a science and technology park aimed at research, tech- nology, innovative entre- preneurship, and vocational training in the area of physical activity, prevention of life- style diseases, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Its con- struction was made possible by a grant from the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade within the auspices of the Operational Programme “En- terprise and Innovation”. The UP Faculty of Physical Culture centre was opened in 2016.

32 žurnál 2018 alumni

text: Eva Hrudníková photos: PS archives

Pavel Sladký: Lawyer in the service of the state

Work duties brought Pavel Sladký to many countries. Only one continent has been elusive to him in terms of work assignments “If Brno and its Villa Tugend- – Australia. “I’ve travelled to many countries around the world, hat is a symbol of the divi- sion of Czechoslovakia, then but I have never seen two nations that are as close to each other Olomouc and Palacký Uni- as the Czechs and Slovaks,” says Pavel Sladký, an alumnus of the versity have the opportunity Palacký University Faculty of Law and a great Olomouc patriot. He to become a symbol of closer knows very well what he’s talking about. For fourteen years, he collaboration between the has been employed in Czech diplomacy; for the last two years at Czechs and Slovaks.” the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava.

He wanted to be a lawyer ever since he was nation, I attended a preparatory course a child. There was however no lawyer in which confirmed my belief that law would his family, and in those times, law could be the right choice for me.” He fondly re- not be studied in Olomouc, where he is members the family-like atmosphere at from. “It was during my gymnazium stud- the young faculty, where all students in ies, in the beginning of the 1990s, when the year’s class knew each other. Then he the Faculty of Law was re-established. briskly starts naming personalities who One year before my graduation exami- had a great influence on him.

žurnál 2018 33 “For example, our teacher of Legal His- Mission of the Czech Republic to the UN flicts, however, was not included in interna- tory, Professor Eduard Vlček, or Associ- in New York, a consul at the Czech embas- tional law until the twentieth century,” he ate Professor Jiří Bílý, those were splen- sy in Vienna, and the head of the Office of states, making the comparison. Another cu- did teachers. I should not forget Associate Deputy Minister at the Czech Ministry of riosity is the Punctation of Olmütz in 1850, Professor Damián Němec who lectured Foreign Affairs. His résumé also contains an attempt for Austrian hegemony in the on Religious Law. I think this should be a Czech first: he became the first Czech ob- German Confederation, whereas in contem- a compulsory course, as it was in our era,” server according to the Antarctic Treaty. He porary international organisations, states says Sladký, offering advice for today’s stu- spent over a month on an icebreaker near are equal. “Also the military cemetery in Ol- dents. “Do not underestimate the legal ba- the South Pole to supervise the fulfilment of omouc-Černovír is historically illustrative, sics – Roman law, legal history, legal theo- rules and obligations under the treaty. with war victims from many nationalities ry. These are key subjects for the study of From July 2016 to April 2018 he worked and religious creeds. War victims are bur- law and the execution of legal practice. Le- as Deputy Ambassador in Slovakia and the ied according to different international rules gal code keeps evolving, so it is necessary head of the political division at the embassy today. Then there is the case of the Mausole- to know the fundamental norms, their his- in Bratislava. After the demise of the Czech um of Yugoslav Soldiers in Olomouc, which tory, and interpretation.” ambassador Livia Klausová and until the demonstrates how difficult may be the mat- When he recalls the academicians, he new ambassador assumes office, Pavel ter of succession concerning one state’s real lingers on one name. “Public Internation- Sladký is temporarily in charge of the em- estate abroad. Or another case in interna- al Law was taught by Professor Vladislav bassy. In his opinion the relationship be- tional law: the landing of Americans on the David. It was he who drew me to this legal tween the two countries, twenty-five years Moon. In the early 1970s – in the era of re- discipline. He was also the second reader after the federation broke apart, are very pressive Normalisation after the Russian of my Master’s thesis. A very strict read- good. “The high frequency of visits of the occupation – Olomouc citizens unveiled er! And that’s how it should be.” Later they highest representatives is an evidence of a monument to the Americans’ “one small wrote two textbooks together on public in- our splendid relations today,” he observes. step for a man, one giant leap for mankind”. ternational law. Although his missions take him to vari- Pavel Sladký’s patriotism is also ex- After graduating in 2002, Pavel Sladký ous places all around the world, or perhaps pressed by his hobbies. He is interested in enrolled in post-graduate studies in interna- for this very reason, he feels home at only regional cartography and history. A blue- tional law at Charles University, at the same one place – in the region of Čuhácko, south white towel of the football club Sigma Olo- time working at the Olomouc town hall as of Olomouc. “I love to come back home. mouc is hanging in his bathroom. a lawyer specialising in administrative law. I lived here for twenty-five years. And Olo- He stays in close touch with his alma He also managed to lecture at his alma ma- mouc is a city of unrivalled beauty. During mater. He has been trying to promote the ter for one semester. And then 2004 came, my study of international law I also realised Czech historian František Palacký in Slo- the year the Czech Republic was admitted to that Olomouc itself is a lively textbook on vakia, as he studied in Trenčín and lived in the EU. He succeeded in an open job compe- this legal discipline.” Pressburg, today’s Bratislava. “If Brno and tition and entered the “service of the state”. He is ready to provide examples from the its Villa Tugendhat is a symbol of the divi- And has remained there until today. city’s history. “In the eighteenth century, sion of Czechoslovakia, then Olomouc and First, he worked as a lawyer at the Inter- under the Prussian siege, the city managed Palacký University have the opportunity to national Law Department at the Ministry of to negotiate that the Holy Trinity Column become a symbol of closer collaboration Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, then would be spared from artillery fire. The pro- between the Czechs and Slovaks,” adds he was a legal counsellor at the permanent tection of historical monuments in war con- Pavel Sladký.

Pavel Sladký (b. 1978) After graduation from Slavonic Gymnazium in Olo- mouc, he graduated from the Palacký University Faculty of Law. He obtained his degrees JUDr. and Ph.D. at Charles University in Prague. As an expert on public internation- al law, he has been employed by the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 2004. Since July 2016 he has been Czech Deputy Ambassador in Slovakia.

34 žurnál 2018 experience

text: Martin Višňa photos: K. Krumpálová Archive

Seven years in Shanghai: From martial arts to Olomouc

For martial arts enthusiasts, there is per- Uneasy beginnings haps no greater idol than Jackie Chan. He The first days in her new place of work were “I found it interesting, the became the hero of Kateřina Krumpálová, not easy, especially because of orientation in possibility of studying Chinese too. She lived for seven years in China, her new environment and communication, martial arts at a university. where she studied traditional martial arts, since her basics in Chinese were not suffi- I wanted to practise and at the obtained a doctoral degree, and even got cient, and the local people were not so good same time learn more about married. By coincidence, she found a per- in English. Soon enough, however, practis- Chinese culture, and I thought manent job at Palacký University, at the In- ing became their common language. “Step this would be a faster way, ternational Relations Office at the Faculty by step we learnt from them, they learnt rather than attending sinology of Physical Culture. from us, and communication was somehow or Chinese classes.” “I found it interesting, the possibility of established. That training made me learn studying Chinese martial arts at a univer- Chinese faster than from language cours- sity. I wanted to practise and at the same es, because you can hear certain things re- time learn more about Chinese culture, and peated many times,” claims Kateřina who, I thought this would be a faster way, rather in addition to the study of Chinese and the than attending sinology or Chinese class- history of local martial arts, also practised es. Although at the University of West Bo- tai-chi, modern wushu, health qigong, and hemia in Pilsen, where I received a Bach- later even Chinese wrestling. elor’s degree, I succeeded in a student The theme of her dissertation, defend- competition for study in Taiwan, I decided ed in 2017, was tai-chi and its promotion to write a personal letter to all Chinese uni- in Western Europe. “It wasn’t easy. First versities I found and wait for their answer. I had to change my tutor, then we spent two Two of them actually replied, and so I chose years looking for the best theme, not able to Shanghai,” says Kateřina Krumpálová, find common ground. One of the problems reminiscing on the outset of her seven-year was that people in China perceive Europe period in China. as one entity.

žurnál 2018 35 Kateřina Krumpálová (b. 1987) Graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages in Commercial Practice from the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen, with a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in traditional Chinese sports from the Shanghai University of Sport. Today an employee and lecturer at the UP Faculty of Physical Culture. She has been practising Chinese martial arts since she was thirteen, presently she is the coach of Czech Tai-Chi Team and a referee.

At most they are able to distinguish between safe in the streets of Shanghai, not afraid to a year. He works and trains in Shanghai, Western and Eastern Europe, but they walk at night alone. Due to her negligence, whereas she took a job at the Faculty of don’t see the differences between individu- however, she had an experience with a Chi- Physical Culture. And her journey to Ol- al countries. I had to somehow narrow and nese jail. Her visa expired, so she ended in omouc began in Shanghai, in fact. When adjust the proposed theme ‘Development of detention and was interrogated. “I was re- a delegation from the Olomouc faculty re- Promotion and Current Promotion of Tai- ally scared. My friends told me it was a big cently visited the local university, she be- Chi in Western Europe’ in order to be able to problem, that I might even be deported came their guide around the campus and write it at all. The collaboration with my tu- from the country. In the end, I paid a €250 the city. The former vice-dean and cur- tor was rather frustrating,” she admits. fine. Nevertheless, being locked up was not rent vice-rector for international relations, a pleasant thing,” she says, recalling one of Martin Kudláček, offered her a job in Olo- In jail her worst experiences. mouc after her graduation. And he kept his All the study challenges were balanced word. Kateřina is in the charge of develop- by some of her positive experiences with Marriage half-way across the ing relations with Chinese schools, teach- ordinary life in a Chinese city. “Life does world ing tai-chi courses for students, employees, not stop here at 8 or 9 pm – Shanghai lives One of the pleasant ones was her wedding. and the public, and promoting martial arts nonstop. When you decide to go out at 2 During her studies she started dating her and Chinese culture. am and have some food or take a walk, the current husband, a Chinese champion in She likes being in Olomouc, even though streets are lively, with open restaurants judo. “My parents weren’t too happy,” she she does not feel at home yet – missing her and shops. What I also found interesting admits. “While in Chinese villages a num- family, friends, favourite places. Howev- was how in the parks there are various ber of traditional customs are held, people er, she has been strengthening her bonds groups of people keen on their activities, in the cities adopt many Western influenc- in Czechia after seven years in China, and and no one is considered crazy for what es. And what they like to do is emotional among other things, she was made the they do. On the contrary, people are very dramas. When I stood with my father on coach of the Czech Tai-Chi Team this year, sociable, and if they’re interested in what the stage and waited for instructions, the and she plans to open her own academy in you’re doing, they want to try it with you. host approached us and told my father to Chinese martial arts. She has a message to That would be unimaginable in the Czech look at me for the last time, because I will those who are interested in study or work Republic,” says Krumpálová. be handed over to my husband in a while. stays in China: “It’ll definitely be worth it. Censorship is not as bad as it is often be- I did not want my father to burst into tears, You have to know though what you want to ing described in Czech media, and that on so I interpreted his words differently.” achieve, without expecting that someone the Internet can be circumvented. She felt The spouses see each other several times will lead you by the hand.”

36 žurnál 2018 fulbright

text: Milada Hronová photos: Marie Meixnerová archives

On a Fulbright in New York

“Such a long and demanding stay forces you to get to know your- self. You re-evaluate your present activities, social contacts, and also organise your priorities in life. Being a Fulbright scholar is truly a life-changing experience, which has been proven to me by meeting many Fulbrighters,” says Marie Meixnerová, a doctoral student at the Department of Art Education at the Faculty of Education. Thanks to her Fulbright scholarship, she had a nine- month stay at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York.

Marie Meixnerová is a graduate of the UP given problem; they can help them under- Faculty of Arts and is also an up-and-com- stand more clearly as to why they need the ing internet and conceptual artist. Now she given knowledge, and formulate how they is known to all and sundry as a curator, but will use it specifically in work and person- she also has a reputation as a programmer al life. A motivated student and a motivat- at the PAF Olomouc Festival of Animated ed teacher are communicating vessels hav- „Přišlo mi zajímavé studovat Films and Contemporary Art. So it is no ing a mutual effect on how much time and čínská bojová umění na surprise that she got to New York, the place energy those involved are able to invest in univerzitě. Chtěla jsem cvičit to be when it comes to art and culture. It studies and teaching,” she concludes. In a zároveň u toho poznávat was there that she understood the value of her case, one can easily see that when one čínskou kulturu, myslela jsem, higher education in society, and learned combines effort and motivation, opportu- že to bude rychlejší cesta the differences between the American and nity also arises. než chodit na sinologii nebo the Czech university systems. hodiny čínštiny.“ “At Columbia University I realised the ScreenSaverGallery; or, World- quality and value of Czech higher educa- Wide WEBxhibition tion. I appreciated the capabilities and At Columbia, Marie was also able to pre- quality of Czech students and Czech teach- pare a big international exhibition pro- ers whom I know personally. A number of ject, which she titled “Unleashing Screen- them are making use of the progressive and saver”. It’s being shown simultaneously in very effective methods which are being dis- New York under the auspices of one of the covered only now in America,” she says. most prestigious American universities, When she thinks about the main difference and via the virtual ScreenSaverGallery, lit- between top American universities like Co- erally around the world. lumbia and Czech universities, she sees the “The curators invited me as an artist main disparity as one of motivation and ap- to an exhibition dedicated to the legacy of proach. Maxine Green, one of the most important “Real teachers are those who can arouse modern philosophers on education, and greater interest in their students on the so I began to think how I could bring some

žurnál 2018 37 Marie Meixnerová (b. 1986)

Graduated in English, Film Studies, and Communication Studies from Palacký University. She is now continuing her doctoral studies at the Department of Art Education in the Intermedia atelier. Her research and curating activities have long been concentrating on communication and interpretation strategies of Internet art, with an emphasis on contemporary Czech and world net art and its impacts. She is also a film programmer for the PAF Olomouc Festival of Animated Films and an up-and-coming Internet and conceptual artist. In 2016 her exhibition project of Olomouc conceptual art was supported by the UP Endowment Fund.

of her theories to life in a meaningful way. “Is New York the centre of modern world Meixnerová says that it’s impossible to I initiated a project aimed at the topic of culture? I have my doubts. Of course there fully prepare for such a stay. “What did sur- aesthetic education,” she explained. are a lot of galleries and museums there prise me was that in several areas, we’re How does the project look in real life? with original and important art works, and more advanced in Czechia either technolog- “Each of the participating groups of stu- something interesting is always going on. ically or philosophically.” Now she knows dents from various countries led by the I had presentations in Brooklyn, at a Crea- what inspiration to take back with her from contacted teachers produced a work which tive Technologies colloquium at Columbia, the USA. When she finishes her doctorate, is mediated via an Internet stream in the and I had a look at the studios at The Coop- she wants to be significantly engaged in screensaver. These were mainly videos, er Union,” she said. She says that various questions of sustainability and politics. “If texts, collections of sounds, slideshow databases and on-line versions of publica- I picked up any significantly positive trait photography, livestreams, or direct digital tions are freely available to students and when I was in America, it would be the ef- works of art, net art, etc. In time, all sixty employees at Columbia University. They fort to strengthen social and neighbourly re- works were displayed in the virtual Screen- can take part as audience members at con- lations and caring about the community to SaverGallery.” ferences, public debates, and presentations an extent which is missing in Czechia, and on the most diverse themes for free or at which is necessary for society. On the other New York minutes a discount. They also have free admission hand, regarding sustainability and thinking This is not the first time Marie Meixnerová to the majority of museums in New York about its wider consequences, which I loose- has been in New York. However this first City. And they can work with state-of-the- ly translate as respect for oneself, one’s an- longer stay showed her a different dimen- art technologies, which Meixnerová also cestors, future descendants, and people par- sion to the city, including cons as well as got to try out. “A digital embroidery ma- allel to us, the USA is way behind the times, pros, such as the possibility to travel to its chine, laser cutter, 3D printer – to name and the majority of the population serve as outlying districts and thanks to her laptop but a few. I even tried programming com- the perfect deterrent example. Thanks to write her dissertation anywhere – Coney puter games, constructing virtual reality, this terrifying American experience, I start- Island, for instance. and building 3D models.” ed to be really interested in these themes.”

38 žurnál 2018 reflection

photo: Gabriela Knýblová

Mohammad Mehdi Gholamian is from Iran, a student of European Union Studies in Salzburg. He came to the UP Faculty of Law in September 2017 as an Erasmus+ student and at the same time to fulfil his requirements for receiving a double degree.

The first time I had the opportunity to get to know Olomouc was about a year ago, when I came here for a week-long stay within my double degree programme. Even in such a short time, the city and the university made such a great impres- sion on me that I suddenly had many reasons to return. And now I have been here for the entire academic year. The most significant difference between the university in Salzburg and the Olomouc Faculty of Law is the teachers’ approach. While in Austria I was just a face in the crowd, here the teachers all know me and call me by name. I wasn’t used to that. I was pleasantly surprised by their personal approach. They are very willing and helpful. And Czechs? I was surprised at how many Czechs speak English. And if by chance they don’t, they still try to help me in any way they can. Olomouc is also perfect for me in that it isn’t far from Salzburg. I regularly go back and forth for study requirements and for work. And in addition to studies in Olomouc, I also try to en- joy my hobbies. I love cooking for friends, sports, and mu- sic. For me, Olomouc is a town of many opportunities, with a great university and friendly, helpful people. In short, the perfect choice for my Erasmus+ stay.

žurnál 2018 39 heritage text: Jiří Fiala | repro: Žurnál UP Host to a musical genius Leopold Antonín Count Podstatský Baron of Prusinovice (1717–1776)

“I’m letting you and all of Salzburg know Leopold Mozart in a letter dated 10 No- “history of our young one” unfortunately how miraculously our fate took us to Olo- vember 1767, addressed to the houseman was never written.) mouc, and how extraordinary it was that of the Mozarts’ family home in Salzburg, His Excellency Count Podstatský, on his Lorenz Hagenauer, describing the events Domiciliary, Canon, and Rector own impetus, accepted us with a child who surrounding the Mozarts’ flight from Vi- The parents of the Mozart family’s benefac- could have contracted smallpox. I will not enna to Olomouc during a smallpox epi- tor, the Imperial Chamberlain and Advisor, write with what good heart, with what demic. Leopold Mozart, his wife Anna Ma- František Valerius Count Podstatský, Baron kindness, and in such luxury we were ac- rie Walburga, and their two “miraculous of Prusinovice and Marie Terezie née Coun- commodated: I merely wish to pose the children” – sixteen-year-old pianist Maria tess of Lichtenstein-Castelcorn, were mar- question, how many other people would Anna Walburga (Nannerl) and the musical ried in the chapel in the Tovačov château on have taken an entire family with a child in virtuoso and brilliant composer Wolfgang 3 June 1715. Their first male heir was born in such a state, and what is more, out of pure Amadeus, at that time aged but eleven, ar- Vienna on 21 April 1717. Unlike his young- love for one’s neighbour, into their own rived in Olomouc on 26 October 1767 and er brother – Alois Arnošt Count Podstatský home? – This act of mercy by His Excellen- remained here until 23 December 1767. of Lichtenstein-Castelcorn, Baron of Prusi- cy Count Podstatský will be greatly hon- After a night spent in the public house At novice, a diplomat and later Governor of oured in the history of the life of our young the Black Eagle in the Hauenschild Palace Styria – Leopold Antonín set out from child- one, which I will one day publish; for here on the Lower Square, where the first signs hood on the spiritual path – his first ordina- begins in no uncertain way, the first year of of smallpox were discovered on Wolfgang, tion (tonzura) was granted on 18 July 1727, his new life.” Leopold Mozart turned to Dean Podstat- when he was only ten years old. ský, whom he knew from Salzburg, with A year later Leopold Antonín Count The Mozarts in Olomouc a request for help: “After church I went to Podstatský, Baron of Prusinovice, became Such was the praise for the Olomouc Ca- see His Excellency Count Podstatský, who an Olomouc non-resident canon – a dom- pitular Dean, Leopold Antonín Count accepted me with much grace, and when icellus; after studies in Rome, he received Podstatský, Baron of Prusinovice, from I told him that my boy had taken ill and his doctorate in both kinds of law in 1738. that I was afraid he might have contracted He was ordained as a priest on 24 Decem- smallpox, he told me that he would take us ber 1741 in Salzburg; on 11 April 1748 he in to his own home, since he was not afraid became the resident Canon of Olomouc of smallpox in the least. He called for his and due to his legal training became the major-domo, telling him to prepare two right-hand man of three consecutive Olo- rooms, and immediately also sent for his mouc bishops. doctor, to go look us up at the Black Eagle.” On 3 July 1764, Podstatský was elected Dean Podstatský hosted the Mozart fami- Dean of the Olomouc Chapter and in 1772 ly in his residence (now after renovations, he was awarded a high state honour – the the Archdiocese Museum on St Wenceslas Commander’s Cross of the Order of St Ste- Square) and called for his own doctor, Dr phen. He was an aficionado of Italian musi- Joseph Wolff, MD. Wolfgang’s sister Nan- cal theatre, was interested in electricity, he nerl contracted smallpox as well; luckily collected maps and works of art, and kept both children had only a slight case of the for company in his residence “two par- dangerous infection. During his convales- rots in wire houses”. In 1776 he was elect- cence, Wolfgang composed his 6th Sym- ed Rector of Olomouc University, however phony in F-Major and an unpreserved aria he held the office only for a short time as he for Nepomucena, the nine-year-old daugh- died on 24 March of that year. He is buried ter of Dr Wolff. (Papa Mozart’s intended in the crypt of the Olomouc cathedral.

The Olomouc capitular Dean, Leopold Antonín Count Podstatský, Baron of Prusinovice (1717–1776); in the background, a view of Salzburg. The photograph depicts a copy of an anonymous oil painting from the mid-18th century in the collection of the château in Telč, painted by Franz Ampichl at the end of the 19th century. The Olomouc Archbishopric, photo: Olomouc Museum of Art, Markéta Ondrušková.

40 žurnál 2018 Genius loci…

titulní strana obálky – hudebník, skladatel a pedagog Tomáš Hanzlík foto na 1. a 3. straně obálky: Gabriela Knýblová www.upol.cz SUMMER SCHOOLS AND SHORT PROGRAMMES

Common features of our summer Interested? We will be more than happy to discuss the needs schools and short programmes of your students and prepare a tailored programme for you! ƒƒ Excellent courses taught by experienced teachers Contact: ƒƒ UP repeatedly scores high in international rankings Palacký University Olomouc International Relations Office ƒƒ Programmes can be tailored to meet the needs of Křížkovského 8 | 771 47 Olomouc a partner institution (a summer school can be easily Czech Republic transformed into a winter school or “Maymester”) More information can be found at: ƒƒ We can arrange field trips to many interesting www.studuj.upol.cz/en/summer-schools destinations. Students can visit exciting cities such as Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Krakow, Venice and other

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ƒƒ Students experience university life through Rome numerous events, trips and extracurricular activities