bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An experimental study on factors affecting the ageing of shaft friction on steel displacement piles in sand
Authors: Bittar Eduardo M. , Lehane Barry M.
Published: February 2024

Ageing of shaft friction is now an accepted characteristic of displacement piles in sand. However, there is little guidance available on how the associated gains in pile capacity can be incorporated in design. This paper provides an overview of findings from a number of previous high-quality investigations before presenting results from a recent pile testing campaign in the field that targeted aspects of pile ageing to improve understanding of the ageing mechanism. The field testing involved 52 tension tests on pipe piles and specifically examined the influence of installation method (driving, vibration, vibration + driving), pile diameter, steel type and loading history (static and cyclic). These results, taken together with other experimental investigations, show that the development of a welded crust on the pile shaft is a necessary part of the ageing process for steel piles and that the increase with time in the level of constrained dilation under shear on this crust is a primary contributor to ageing of shaft friction. Creep within the sand mass following the disturbance induced by installation can explain the increase in the level of this constraint, while stress redistribution and breakdown of arching may also contribute to the phenomenon. Ageing leads to the inference of instances of long-term aged shaft friction (in tension) of 500 mm and 2 m dia. pipe piles that are, respectively, at least 50% and 30% higher than given by the design method in ISO 19901-4 (2024). Additional observations relating to the effect of the installation method, steel type and load history on the ageing of shaft friction, which could assist designers.
Primary and Secondary Markets for Stablecoins
Authors: Watsky Cy , Allen Jeffrey , Daud Hamzah , Demuth Jochen , Little Daniel , Rodden Megan , Seira Amber
Published: February 2024

Stablecoins are increasingly important in decentralized finance (DeFi) and crypto asset markets, and their prominence has led to greater scrutiny of their unique role as expressions of the U.S. dollar running on blockchain networks. Stablecoins attempt to perform a mechanically complex function – to remain pegged to the dollar, even during periods of market volatility.
Private Credit: Characteristics and Risks
Authors: Cai Fang , Haque Sharjil
Published: February 2024

Private credit or private debt investments are debt-like, non-publicly traded instruments provided by non-bank entities, such as private credit funds or business development companies (BDCs), to fund private businesses. Private credit is typically extended to middle-market firms with annual revenues between $10 million and $1 billion, but has grown rapidly in recent years to fund larger companies that were traditionally funded by leveraged loans.
Apoyo de la gestión como impulsor del capital intelectual en Instituciones de Educación Superior (IES)
Authors: Chacón-Henao Juliana , Arias-Pérez José
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Analizar el impacto de las cuatro dimensiones del apoyo de la gestión: liderazgo, supervisión, incentivos y compañeros de trabajo  del Capital Intelectual (CI) en las Instituciones de Educación Superior (IES), con el proposito de establecer un entorno y garantías propicias para la gestión y consolidación de su inventario de conocimientos. Método: El modelo de investigación se testeó por medio de un cuestionario aplicado a grupos de investigación en Colombia. Se obtuvo 442 respuestas válidas y se utilizó para el analisis la modelación por ecuaciones estructurales. Resultados: Los hallazgos indican que el liderazgo y la supervisión tienen un mayor impacto en el CI, aunque los incentivos y los compañeros de trabajo son notables, pero en menor medida. De acuerdo con estos resultados, se identifica una jerarquía de variables que afectan el CI destacando el liderazgo y la supervisión como las variables de apoyo a la gestión con mayor peso, en las cuales las universidades podrían focalizar mayores esfuerzos y atención. Conclusiones: Este estudio aporta al cuerpo de conocimiento academico sobre los antecedentes e influenciadores de CI presentando un enfoque novedoso al analizar esta variable en los grupos de investigación dentro de las universidades de educación superior.
La responsabilidad penal de los menores en España
Authors: Díaz-Maroto y Villarejo Julio
Published: February 2024

La importante cuestión de la responsabilidad de los menores siempre ha sido objeto de una especial controversia. Tomando como base los conceptos de imputabilidad y minoría de edad, el trabajo pretende mostrar la idoneidad o no de las distintas medidas aplicables a los menores de 18 años contenidas en la Ley española de responsabilidad penal de los menores (LO 5/2000, de 12 de enero).
Interpretación Penal y Constitucionalismo ecuatoriano
Authors: Villacreses Briones Tania Gabriela
Published: February 2024

En un sistema constitucional de derechos y justicia como el ecuatoriano, y en el contexto del debate actual de las corrientes constitucionalistas contemporáneas, es de vital importancia entender los antecedentes teórico epistémicos de las relaciones jurídicas del derecho penal entre el Estado y sus ciudadanos en aras de la búsqueda de la seguridad jurídica en la rama del derecho de mayor impacto en la vida de los seres humanos en sociedad. Así, el objetivo de la presente investigación es determinar los alcances de la interpretación penal en el Ecuador desde la mirada de un recorrido diacrónico por la evolución de las democracias constitucionales desde el contractualismo hasta nuestros días, para aterrizar en la dualidad propuesta por el artículo trece del COIP. Para ello, una investigación bibliográfica crítica y analítica de fuentes secundarias presentados como artículo de revisión.
Advancing 21st-Century Creativity and Innovation into Japanese Educational System
Authors: Adeoye Moses Adeleke
Published: February 2024

The 21st century requires a new set of skills for success in a global economy. Creativity and innovation are essential components of skills, yet the current Japanese educational system does not place a strong emphasis on these skills. This paper stated the importance of project-based learning and technology integration approaches that can be used to advance creativity and innovation in the Japanese educational system. By promoting creativity and innovation in the Japanese educational system, we can help to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills that are essential for success in the 21st century. The paper provides detailed strategies for overcoming challenges in advancing 21st-century creativity and innovation in the Japanese educational system. Finally, the paper emphasizes the importance of providing teachers with the necessary training and support to implement innovative approaches effectively.
Focusing on Actors, Scaling-Up, and Networks to Understand Co-Production Practices: Reporting From Berlin and Santiago
Authors: Alfaro d’Alençon Paola , Moya Ortiz Diego
Published: February 2024

In different policy agendas, such as the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, co-production is introduced as a desirable urban planning practice to validate the engagement and inclusion of diverse actors/networks. Nevertheless, some scholars argue (e.g., Watson, Robinson) that the Western planning approach faces difficulties incorporating rationalities beyond the Global North–South division. In this context based on the research project DFG-KOPRO Int for the German Research Foundation on Chilean and German cases and the local context, this article seeks to explore how local groups are undertaking co-production, which means of legitimacy are used, and which socio-spatial results develop. In doing so, the research focuses firstly on the negotiation processes (governance) between stakeholders by undertaking network analysis and, secondly, on understanding the impulse for urban development by analysing the project’s socio-spatial material patterns. Chile’s neoliberal context and the case studies showcase diverse cooperative forms that try to close governance gaps within strong political struggles. In the German context, actors from different areas, such as cultural institutions, universities, and private actors undertake diverse mandates for testing regulatory, persuasive, or financial instruments. As different as local realities are, the overall results show that co-production occurs mostly in highly contested fields such as housing projects and highlights a three-part constellation of actors—state, private, and civil society—in urban development. However, negotiation processes take place, ranging from conflictive to cooperative. Hence, co-production challenges prevailing social and political structures by providing an arena for new forms of collective and pluralistic governance.
Psychological readiness for professional activity and emotional intelligence: development peculiarities among students of socionomic professions
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, TYNDYK Yana
Published: February 2024

Background. The war in the East of Ukraine exacerbated the need for high-quality training of specialists in socionomy to serve the population affected by this war. After all, working with those who have manifested post-traumatic stress disorder requires from the professionals not only psychological readiness to help people but also a high level of emotional intelligence development. It affects the efficiency of their professional activities and increases their resistance to emotional exhaustion and professional burnout. The results of a theoretical and empirical study of the relationship between the psychological features of emotional intelligence and the components of psychological readiness for socio-economic professions are presented, the differences between the features of emotional intelligence and psychological readiness in different groups of subjects (future psychologists, teachers and doctors) are indicated. Methods. The study used research methods and psychodiagnostic tests to assess the development level of psychological readiness and emotional intelligence components. Results. Results of the study: a significant number of students had a low development level of psychological readiness components; more than a third of socionomic students show a low level of emotional intelligence development; emotional intelligence (and its individual components) is in some way associated with personal factors (16 PF-Questionnaire by Cattell), particularly with the factors B, C, G, H, N, Q2, Q3 - positive correlation, with factors L, Q1 - negative correlation; the differences between the indicators of emotional intelligence and psychological readiness for socionomic professions among future psychologists, physicians and educators are determined; the directions of emotional intelligence influence on components of psychological readiness are revealed. Conclusions. The study's results will help improve the psychological training process of socionomic specialists in higher education institutions, as these results point to problems that need to be worked out to better prepare each student for professional work.
The coordination of interests in public policy making in Ukraine through the mechanism of consolidation of socio-political groups
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, TRAVERSE Tetiana , ROMANOVA Iuliia ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, KRAVCHENKO Sofia ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, DUBROVYNSKYI Georgyi ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: February 2024

Background. The article is devoted to an empirical study and substantiation of the structure and content of consolidation of political groups, the potential of consolidation as a mechanism for reconciling the interests of political groups in public policy making. The purpose of the study was to find out the socio-psychological features of the consolidation of ideological and electoral political groups, to find common ground between them in order to harmonize interests in public policy making. Methods. theoretical, empirical, methods of mathematical and statistical data processing, as well as psychodiagnostic techniques: "Political Values" (G. Eysenck), "Political Values" (A. Seleznev), "Group Identity" (J. Feitos, E. Salas), "Political Identity" (O. Sknar), political identification scales (J. Kruker, R. Lihtanen), "Study of Political Motives" (A. Krasnyakov), "Political Self-Efficacy" (I. Sariev), "Political Self-Efficacy" (I. Sariev), "Political Solidarity" (K. Newfield, D. Goucher, K. Starzuk, in the author's adaptation), "Perceptions of Consolidation and Ways to Achieve It" (S. Kravchenko), and a research questionnaire. Results. The content and structure, patterns and features of political consolidation of socio-political groups are determined. Consolidation is a systemic unity based on the principle of conjunction, the systemic factor of which is the value system of the group. It consists of: value-oriented unity, common socio-political motives and image of Ukraine's needy future, political and group identities, reflective capital (common ideas about: a) consolidation unity, b) mechanisms of its implementation, c) similarities and differences between the ideas of their group members and other groups in political interaction, d) readiness for joint actions, dialogue, development of possible productive solutions), self-efficacy of the political group. Conclusions. The socio-political consolidation functionality of a community sets the scale, direction, and coordinate system of interaction between electoral and ideological groups - from competition, cooperation, and options for productive confrontation to extreme borderline conflict, as various types of wars. The author identifies the universal and specific bases of possible coordination of interests of political groups and their consolidation.
Novel DC Capacitor Voltage Balancing Strategy of Modular Multilevel Converter based STATCOM for Reactive Power Compensation and Voltage Improvement
Authors: Vadlamudi Naresh Et al.
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the integration of renewable energy sources and their unpredictable nature has posed significant challenges to power grid stability and voltage regulation. To address these issues, the Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) based Static Synchronous Compensator (Statcom) has emerged as a promising solution for reactive power compensation and voltage improvement. However, one critical concern in MMC-Statcom operation is the voltage balancing of DC capacitors, which directly affects system performance and efficiency. In this research, a novel DC capacitor voltage balancing strategy is proposed for MMC-Statcom to ensure optimal operation and enhanced performance. The proposed strategy employs advanced control algorithms and innovative switching techniques to maintain balanced DC capacitor voltages under varying operating conditions. By achieving balanced capacitor voltages, the MMC-Statcom can effectively compensate reactive power and regulate the grid voltage with improved efficiency and stability. The effectiveness of the proposed DC capacitor voltage balancing strategy is extensively evaluated through simulation studies and experimental validations. Comparative analyses are performed with existing voltage balancing methods, demonstrating superior performance and robustness of the novel strategy. The results showcase its potential for practical implementation in real-world power systems. Overall, this study presents a significant advancement in MMC-Statcom technology, providing an effective solution for reactive power compensation and voltage improvement while ensuring reliable and stable grid operation. The proposed novel DC capacitor voltage balancing strategy holds the promise of contributing to the enhancement of power system stability and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources in modern electrical grids.
Revolutionizing 5G Networks: A Synergy of Routing, Clustering, and Energy Optimization for Unprecedented Performance and Extended Lifespan
Authors: Fathima Rubeena Et. al
Published: February 2024

The concept of revolutionizing 5G (Fifth Generation) networks through a synergy of routing, clustering, and energy optimization is indeed a promising approach to enhancing the performance and lifespan of wireless networks. Exciting changes will occur in the physical, digital, and biological worlds over the next ten years. Although the needs for Beyond 5G (B5G) are not yet fully understood, an effort has been made to stratify 5G progression and B5G. This work highlights the focus on revolutionizing 5G networks through the integration of routing, clustering, and energy optimization techniques. By combining these methodologies, this research work aims to address the complex challenges in 5G networking, such as efficient data routing, resource allocation, and energy consumption. The objective is to achieve both exceptional performance and an extended lifespan for these networks. The proposed work holds promise for significantly enhancing the capabilities of 5G networks, resulting in improved user experiences, optimized resource utilization, and prolonged network lifespan. In order to completely meet the most stringent 5G standards, such as stratification, or deconstruction into existing technologies, will comprise technology scenarios of 5G evolutions. Wireless sensor networks (WSNs), which offer essential data collecting and monitoring capabilities, are made up entirely of 5G networks. These methods are designed specifically for use in 5G networks to increase the network’s lifespan and overall performance. For 5G networks, routing and clustering techniques from WSNs can be modified and optimized to increase energy efficiency and prolong the network lifetime in 5G networks.
Design Methods for the Cluster Head Selection in WSNs based on Node Residual Status to Enhance the Lifetime and Performance of the Network
Authors: Abdul Aleem Et. al
Published: February 2024

This study introduces a novel approach to enhance Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) by proposing an energy-balancing algorithm and a unique Cluster Head (CH) selection strategy based on nodes' residual energy states. Unlike conventional methods, our algorithm dynamically distributes energy across nodes, mitigating localized energy depletion and extending the overall network lifetime. The Knapsack method optimizes resource allocation considering energy constraints. Performance evaluations, conducted using NS2.34/2.35, compare our approach with a widely used energy-balancing technique in WSNs. Our results showcase significant improvements. Notably, our algorithm achieves a remarkable 20% increase in network lifetime and a 25% enhancement in data throughput, demonstrating its effectiveness in optimizing resource usage. Furthermore, a 30% reduction in latency ensures faster and more responsive data transmission. The CH selection method positively impacts network coverage, resulting in a substantial 20% expansion of monitored areas. Compared to the existing technique, our proposed strategy consistently outperforms in key metrics, indicating its superior efficacy. This research contributes to advancing WSN sustainability and efficiency, particularly in scenarios prioritizing energy efficiency. The proposed algorithm emerges as a promising solution, demonstrating its potential to optimize WSN performance and longevity. Furthermore, the network simulator (NS) is used to examine the performance of the network with the NS2.34/2.35 version. The results exhibit the dominance of the projected method compared to existing techniques. Additionally, the method shows adaptability to dynamic network conditions, ensuring effective CH reselection in the presence of node failures or energy fluctuations.
Navigating the Landscape of Robust and Secure Artificial Intelligence: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Saurabh Suman Choudhuri Et al.
Published: February 2024

Addressing the multidimensional nature of Artificial Intelligence assurance, this thorough survey is dedicated to elaborating on various aspects of ensuring the reliability and safety of computerized systems. It steers through the turbulent seas of model enervates, unmodelled phenomena, and security menaces to give an elaborate lit review. The review touches upon the boisterous ways of addressing these intricate mitigation strategies for model errors used in the past, the challenges of under-specification with modern ML models, and how understanding uncertainty is crucial. In addition, it evaluates the AI system’s security basis, the emerging Adversary Machine Learning field, and its processes necessary for testing and evaluation of weaker adversarial case studies. The review of literature also looks upon the situation of DoD context, how the terrain surrounding developmental and operational testing is altering with all these shifts in culture that must be implemented if not to implement robust but secure AI implementation.
Design Optimization of Single Overhead Crain Girder using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Rohan S. Navale Et al.
Published: February 2024

This study aims to develop strategies in the field of structural optimization and implement these strategies into the design processes. The single-sided swing arm has been selected as the subject of this study. The primary objective of this project is to reduce the mass of an existing steel girder arm, a component of a 1-ton capacity overhead crane, through the application of topology optimization techniques. This weight reduction is essential to enhance cost-effectiveness and operational performance. To achieve this goal, the Finite Element software Ansys, equipped with multiple modules, has been utilized. Ansys is responsible for preparing the finite element model and conducting modal and static analyses. Topology optimization is performed using Inspire. Static analysis is carried out, considering the effective dynamic load on the crane girder in accordance with IS codes. The optimization method applied in this study has successfully resulted in an 18.97% reduction in the mass of the existing girder.
Stratifying Colorectal Cancer stages through CT scan images using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Bharathi M P Et al.
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence and deep learning have propelled cancer treatment, achieving a 25% increase in treatment accuracy. By analyzing vast datasets, AI has identified 30% more nuanced patterns, revolutionizing tailored therapies and patient outcomes. The proposed research investigates the feasibility of utilizing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) to determine colorectal cancer staging using CT scan images. We have used VGG16 as the base model by fine- tuning the hyperparameters and the layers to accomplish the desired outcomes. The focus lies in demonstrating CNN’s effectiveness in automating the staging process, potentially providing a reliable and efficient tool for precise cancer diagnosis and treatment planning. In further work the result with tumor stage with patient’s other parameters are integrated to assess the risk level of cancer. The model results in 94.6% accuracy with minimal error rate.
Analysis of PFC Buck-Boost Converter Fed PMBLDC Motor Drive Systems
Authors: Martand Prata Et. al
Published: February 2024

Electric motors influence almost every aspect of modern life. Refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, air conditioners, fans, computer hard drives, automatic vehicle windows, & a number of other household products & devices employ electric motors to convert electrical energy into usable mechanical energy. Electric motors power a wide range of industrial processes in addition to powering residential appliances. Brushless DC (BLDC) motor drives have grown in popularity in recent years due to their suitability for a wide range of low and medium power applications such as household appliances, medical equipment, position actuators, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), motion control, and transportation. These drives have great efficiency, dependability, durability, and outstanding performance across a wide range of speed control. The BLDC motor cannot be connected directly to the supply and must be driven by a drive consisting of VSI controlled by an electronic commutation system. Harmonics are introduced into the main power supply and power factor issue by the electronic commutation system and rectification procedure. Power Factor Correction (PFC) converters are used to improve the power quality and power factor of the alternating current mains.
A Study on Electromyography Signal as a Controller
Authors: Tanuja Subba Et al.
Published: February 2024

Human computer interaction (HCI) is the study of interfaces between human and computer. When an input keyboard is pressed the output is displayed in the monitor is a simple example of human and computer interaction. World Wide Web is yet another example of HCI. HCI is everywhere and has become an important aspect in human life. HCI have many subfields and one among them is the study of biosignals. Signals that are generated from living body during muscle contraction, eye movement, brain signal are biosignals and these signals have potential for developing an interface for human computer interaction. There are many such bio electric signals which can be made to use for developing interface and that can be done by acquiring these signals which will form a linkage with the computer technique. These types of signals are brain signal called Electroencephalogram (EEG), heart signal Electrocardiogram (ECG), eye movement signal Electrooculogram (EOG) and muscle signalElectromyogram (EMG). The paper focuses on the study of muscle signal controller as HCI, EMG signals are captured during contraction of a skeletal muscle. The signal is then amplified and converted into usable signals that will be fed as an input to computer and can be used for controlling certain devices.
Festive or Failure? Differences in Sentiments of Consumer Tweets on Amazon Festive Flash Sale before and after COVID-19
Authors: Khayati Chadha Et. al
Published: February 2024

Amazon’s Great Indian Sale is an annual mega shopping festival and provides an opportunity for retailers selling on e-commerce platforms to increase their sales, traffic as well as visibility. This study aims to understand consumer behaviour through the analysis of user-generated content (UGC) on social media concerning Amazon’s Great Indian Sale from 2015 to 2020. This time period was especially significant since it allowed for the analysis of differences caused by the pandemic. It was further divided into pre-COVID-19, during  COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 period. The study also aims to establish a causal relationship between the feelings of engagement of the UGC on Twitter, with the strategies of marketing and promotion of the companies. Twitter’s API was used to extract the UGC. A two-step methodology was used to extract meaningful insights. First, Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) was used to identify major topics related to the Flash sales organized during the festive season. Next, Sentiment Analysis was used to classify each tweet into Positive, Negative and Neutral Sentiments in order to understand user opinions and feelings towards the marketing campaign. It was found that both during the COVID period as well as the post COVID period, topics like Deals & Offers and Exclusive Promotions were positively perceived by consumers. Topics like Pre-event Excitement, Diwali Shopping Experience, Customer Support, and Money-saving Opportunities generated positive feelings during the pre-COVID times. During COVID times, positive sentiments were generated by topics like Delivery Workers and Attractive Deals for Gifting. On the other hand, topics like Insults and Noise generated negative sentiments in both the COVID and post COVID periods. The findings of this study are significant not only to improve and devise marketing strategies and social media content for E-commerce companies, but also to provide an understanding of the effectiveness of festive sales.
Hybrid Swarm Algorithm for Mobile Robot Path Planning
Authors: Walaa Mahmood Hassen Et al.
Published: February 2024

The adoption of lightweight and effective swarm algorithms is required for low resource usage algorithms for mobile robot path planning crises. We present a hybrid swarm approach in this study that combines the best features of particle swarm optimization and river formation dynamics. This method looks for the shortest route while keeping the path as smooth as feasible. The best qualities of both approaches are combined and leveraged by the hybrid RFD-PSO methodology. While the RFD algorithm is well known for its smooth path discovery, it needs a lot of drops for good convergence and suffers from sinuosity problems. The generated hybrid RFD-PSO algorithm synergistically balances PSO's fast convergence with the river method's adaptive exploration and exploitation. Comparing the simulation results of the proposed method versus the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), modified Ant Colony Optimization ACO*, PSO, RFD, A*, and Dijkstra’s, Hybrid RFD-PSO have better results in creating optimal path.
Potential and Actuall Significanance of Montessori Learning Environment
Authors: Bednarczuk Beata Zuzanna
Published: February 2024

Introduction: It is important that people who want to perform their duties in a global and uncertain reality are prepared for changes. Therefore, education can play a significant role in supporting the development of active, competent citizens. The superior task of the contemporary school is to provide an educational environment which would be a source of various experiences with the material, social and cultural world (Todd et al. 2019). The model solution in this regard is offered by the school environment organized according to Maria Montessori’s pedagogical principles. The guiding standard for such an environment is support of the individual’s potential. This is also the key rule on which the lifelong learning paradigm is based (Fleming, 2021). Research Aim: The aim of the paper is to evidence that the Montessori environment favors the development of skills necessary for lifelong learning and to verify empirically the affective significances of the educational experiences of Montessori school graduates. Method: In order to discover the emotional significance of school experiences, the partly modified Hermans’s Confrontation With Yourself method was applied (Hermans, Hermans-Jansen, 2000). Results: The educational experiences of Montessori school graduates are characterized by one type of emotional climate – strength and union (+HH) – in which the fulfilment of both basic motives of human behavior (of self-enhancement and contact with others) evokes positive feelings. Conclusion: Montessori school former pupils possess intra- and interpersonal skills, necessary in lifelong learning. The Montessori model of education supports the development of the ability to harmonize one’s interests with the goals of other people as well as personal and social responsibility.
Readiness for Redress and a Sense of Self-efficacy of the Perpetrators of Violent Offences
Authors: Trojanowska Ewa
Published: February 2024

Introduction: According to the purpose of the completion of penalty it is important to foster a sense of responsibility in convicted persons. The assumption of the responsibility for the committed act is the basis for participation in mediation, one important aspect of which is redress. Therefore, it is essential to identify determinants of readiness for redress so as to be able to design social rehabilitation programmes aimed at the development of a sense of self-efficacy. One of these factors, which is subject to empirical verification, is a sense of self-efficacy. Research Aim: The aim of research consists in analysing the relationship between readiness for redress and a sense of self-efficacy of the persons who committed violent offences. Research Method: In author’s own research the diagnostic survey method was used in addition to the following tools: Readiness for Restitution Scale and Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale. Results: It was found that there is a positive correlation between the readiness for undertaking corrective measures and a sense of self-efficacy of the persons serving the penalty of deprivation of liberty for the committed violent offences. A sense of self-efficacy explains variance in the readiness for redress. Nonetheless, factors other than self-efficacy make a greater contribution into explaining the variance in the dependent variable. Conclusions: The conducted research is of an exploratory nature and needs to be repeated on a larger sample of prisoners. However, the obtained results already allow to draw the conclusion that by developing one of these variables – readiness for redress or a sense of self-efficacy, the level of the other one increases at the same time. It means that these aspects can be taken into account while designing social rehabilitation programmes aimed at the social readaptation of convicts.
Belarus, Belarusian: the History of the Names of the Homeland and Countrymen
Authors: Rudenka Alena
Published: February 2024

The research is based on two concepts: 1) a stable ethnic name (ethnonym) testifies to the strong ethno-identity of people, and changes in this name indicate changes in ethnic selfconsciousness of the group; 2) the name of the language used by the ethnos (linguonym), as well as the ethnonym, is very significant for ethnic identity, and a stable linguonym and its formation is more important for the mentality of people than intra-linguistic changes. The purpose of the article is to show the stages of the formation of the names of Belarusians and the Belarusian language. This goal cannot be realized without referring to the formation of the ethnic identity of Belarusians. Since the diachronic approach is adopted, the necessary historical-geographical and linguistic context is given. The study applies methods of working with text: both with scientific literature and with original texts in the field of issues. The information from these two types of sources is used to show the stages of the formation of Belarusian ethnonyms and linguonyms. The synthesis and final interpretation were also carried out through the extralinguistic (first of all, historical) perspective. The formation of the names of the concept of “homeland” was also considered. As a result of the research, the author comes to conclusion that at the beginning of the 20th century Belarusians had already formed the names of their homeland, ethnos and language, that is, for more than a hundred years they considered themselves a separate nation.
Changes in posterior corneal elevation after small incision lenticule extraction for different myopic diopters
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, Shandong Province, China, Sun Xiao-Tong , Mei Xiao-Kun ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, Shandong Province, China, Zheng Nan-Nan ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, Shandong Province, China, Niu Ling-Zhi ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, Shandong Province, China, Qu Xiao-Li ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, Shandong Province, China, Song Ai-Ping ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, Shandong Province, China, Zhuo Jian ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, Shandong Province, China
Published: February 2024

AIM: To study the changes and effect factors of posterior corneal surface after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) with different myopic diopters.
METHODS: Ninety eyes of 90 patients who underwent SMILE were included in this retrospective study. Patients were allocated into three groups based on the preoperative spherical equivalent (SE): low myopia (SE≥-3.00 D), moderate myopia (-3.00 D>SE>-6.00 D) and high myopia (SE≤-6.00 D). Posterior corneal surfaces were measured by a Scheimpflug camera preoperatively and different postoperative times (1wk, 1, 3, 6mo, and 1y). Posterior mean elevation (PME) at 25 predetermined points of 3 concentric circles (2-, 4-, and 6-mm diameter) above the best fit sphere was analyzed.
RESULTS: All surgeries were completed uneventfully and no ectasia was found through the observation. The difference of myopia group was significant at the 2-mm ring at 1 and 3mo postoperatively (1mo: P=0.017; 3mo: P=0.018). The effect of time on ΔPME was statistically significant (2-mm ring: P=0.001; 4-mm ring: P<0.001; 6-mm ring: P<0.001). The effect of different corneal locations on ΔPME was significant except 1wk postoperatively (1mo: P=0.000; 3mo: P=0.000; 6mo: P=0.001; 1y: P=0.001). Posterior corneal stability was linearly correlated with SE, central corneal thickness, ablation depth, residual bed thickness, percent ablation depth and percent stromal bed thickness.
CONCLUSION: The posterior corneal surface changes dynamically after SMILE. No protrusion is observed on the posterior corneal surface in patients with different degrees of myopia within one year after surgery. SMILE has good stability, accuracy, safety and predictability.
Effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses and capsular tension rings implantation for cataract patients with axial high myopia
Authors:   Dongguan Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Dongguan 523106, Guangdong Province, China, Hua Shan , Wang Hu ,   Dongguan Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Dongguan 523106, Guangdong Province, China, Zhong Jing-Xiang ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, Guangdong Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Dongguan 523576, Guangdong Province, China
Published: February 2024

AIM: To assess effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) and capsular tension rings in treating cataract patients with axial high myopia.
METHODS: A prospective nonrandomized controlled clinical trial was conducted. Totally 98 eyes (74 patients) who underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) with trifocal IOLs were enrolled in the study and followed up for 2y after surgery: 46 eyes (33 patients) with capsular tension ring implantation in the long axial lengths (AL) group (26<AL<29 mm) and 52 eyes (41 patients) in the normal AL group (22<AL<24.5 mm). Postoperative outcomes about effectivity and safety, including the subjective and objective visual quality, and postoperative complications were assessed.
RESULTS: Uncorrected distance visual acuity at 5 m and uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at 60 and 80 cm in the long AL group were significantly worse than those in the normal AL group at 3mo postoperatively (P<0.05). The differences in reading speed, spectacle independence and potential visual complaints between the two groups were not statistically significant (P>0.05). The dysfunctional lens index and total modulation transfer function (MTF) average height were similar between the two groups. The postoperative internal coma aberrations in the axial high myopia eyes were significantly higher than that in the normal AL group (P<0.05). The total satisfaction score in the long AL group (91.32±2.76) was slightly higher than that in the normal AL group (90.36±3.47), but there was no difference (P=0.136). A statistically negative correlation was found between corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and dysfunctional lens index (r=-0.382, P=0.009), and between CDVA and the total MTF average height (r=-0.374, P=0.01). But there was no significant correlation between CDVA and total satisfaction score (r=0.059, P=0.696). Postoperative complications mainly presented as posterior capsular opacity (PCO), retinal detachment and cystoid macular edema. There was no difference in the incidence of fundus disease (6.5% vs 3.8%, P=0.663) or PCO (17.4% vs 7.7%, P=0.217) between the two groups at two years.
CONCLUSION: The utilization of trifocal IOL and capsular tension ring implantation is beneficial for cataract patients with axial high myopia undergoing FLACS. This approach not only ensures excellent subjective feelings and objective visual quality, but also does not increase the incidence of postoperative complications.
Neuroimaging in atypical normal tension glaucoma: debating routine implementation in the absence of classic neurological findings
Authors:   Ophthalmology Department, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara 06230, Turkey, Güvenç Umay , Üney Güner ,   Ophthalmology Department, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara 06230, Turkey, Uzman Selma ,   Ophthalmology Department, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara 06230, Turkey
Published: February 2024

AIM: To assess the necessity of neuroimaging in patients with neurological or atypical findings of normal tension glaucoma (NTG) who do not exhibit typical glaucoma manifestations.
METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 90 atypical NTG patients who underwent cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to atypical symptoms. The demographic characteristics, clinical parameters, and radiological findings were recorded.
RESULTS: Among the patients, 66.7% had abnormal radiology results, with the most common findings being gliosis (34.4%), sequelae of cerebrovascular events and vascular malformations (14.4%), and benign intracranial mass lesions (11%). Non-glaucomatous visual field defects were more frequently observed in patients with abnormal neuroimaging results. However, there were no significant differences in intraocular pressure, optic disc parameters, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and visual field indices between patients with normal and abnormal radiological results. The mean age of the patients was 58.74y. Interestingly, there was a significant age difference, with the abnormal radiology group having a higher median age (P=0.021).
CONCLUSION: The study highlights the importance of cranial imaging in older NTG patients to detect underlying pathologies and prevent misdiagnosis. It suggests that neuroimaging may be warranted in NTG patients with atypical visual field defects incompatible with glaucoma. However, routine neuroimaging in all NTG patients without classic neurological signs may not be necessary.
Background diseases and the number of previous intravitreal aflibercept injections on immediate intraocular pressure increase and vitreous reflux rate in phakic eyes
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Koshigaya 343-8555, Japan; Imaizumi Eye Hospital, Koriyama 963-8877, Japan; Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan, Muto Tetsuya , Imaizumi Shinichiro ,   Imaizumi Eye Hospital, Koriyama 963-8877, Japan
Published: February 2024

AIM: To evaluate the effect of background diseases and number of previous intravitreal aflibercept injections (IVAIs) on immediate intraocular pressure (IOP) increase and vitreous reflux (VR) rate and to evaluate the correlation of both age and axial length with immediate IOP increase and VR rate.
METHODS: This study included 105 patients with cystoid macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion, 35 patients with diabetic macular edema, 69 patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), and 12 patients with myopic choroidal neovascularization, which underwent first-time IVAI. The correlation of immediate IOP increase and VR rates with the four background diseases was investigated. Moreover, the correlation of age with immediate IOP increase and VR rate as well as correlation of axial length with immediate IOP increase and VR rate were evaluated. Further, 54 patients with nAMD were treated with IVAI>10 times (multiple IVAIs). Moreover, the correlation of immediate IOP increase and VR rates with first-time and multiple IVAIs in nAMD was determined.
RESULTS: The immediate IOP increase (P=0.16) and VR rates (P=0.50) were almost similar among the four background diseases. The immediate postinjection IOP and age, VR rate and age, immediate postinjection IOP and axial length, or VR rate and axial length were not correlated in the four background diseases. The immediate IOP increase (P=0.66) and VR rates (P=0.28) did not significantly differ between first-time and multiple IVAIs in nAMD.
CONCLUSION: Background diseases and number of previous IVAIs have no effect on immediate IOP increase and VR rate. Further, age and axial length have no correlation on immediate IOP increase and VR rate.
Clinical features and possible pathogenesis of multiple evanescent white dot syndrome with different retinal diseases and events: a narrative review
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China; Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China, Chen Chun-Li , Zhang Zhi-Han ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China; Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China, Wang Ge ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China; Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China, Peng Xiao-Yan ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100730, China; Beijing Ophthalmology and Visual Science Key Laboratory, Beijing 100730, China
Published: February 2024

Multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS) is a rare fundus disease, characterized by acute vision loss and visual field defects. Many previous studies have explained the possible pathogenesis and clinical features of primary MEWDS. However, as the number of reported cases increases, secondary MEWDS occurs in other related retinal diseases and injuries, exhibiting some special characteristics. The associated retinal diseases include multifocal choroiditis/punctate inner choroidopathy (MFC/PIC), acute zonal occult outer retinopathy, best vitelliform macular dystrophy, pseudoxanthoma elasticum, and ocular toxoplasmosis. The related retinal injury is laser photocoagulation, surgery, and trauma. Although primary MEWDS often have a self-limiting course, secondary MEWDS may require treatment in some cases, according to the severity of concomitant diseases and complications. Notably, MEWDS secondary to MFC/PIC that is prone to forming choroidal neovascularization and focal choroidal excavation, needs positive treatment with corticosteroids. The possible underlying pathogenesis of secondary MEWDS is the exposure of choroidal antigen after the disruption of Bruch’s membrane. The MEWDS-related features in secondary MEWDS are still evanescent under most circumstances. Its prognosis and treatment depend on the severity of complications. Current studies propose that the etiology is associated with immune factors, including viral infection, inflammation in choroid and Bruch’s membrane, and antigen exposure caused by retinal and/or choroidal insults. More pathogenic studies should be conducted in the future. Accurate diagnosis for secondary MEWDS could benefit patients in aspects of management and prognosis.