bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting histologic differentiation of solitary hepatocellular carcinoma up to 5 cm on gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI
Authors: Yang Ting , Wei Hong , Wu Yuanan , Qin Yun , Chen Jie , Jiang Hanyu , Song Bin
Published: January 2023

Background

To establish a preoperative score based on gadoxetate disodium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (EOB-MRI) and clinical indicators for predicting histologic differentiation of solitary HCC up to 5 cm.

Methods

From July 2015 to January 2022, consecutive patients with surgically proven solitary HCC measuring ≤ 5 cm at preoperative EOB-MRI were retrospectively enrolled. All MR images were independently evaluated by two radiologists who were blinded to all clinical and pathologic information. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant clinicoradiological features associated with poorly differentiated (PD) HCC, which were then incorporated into the predictive score. The predictive score was validated in an independent validation set by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Results

A total of 182 patients were included, 42 (23%) with PD HCC. According to the multivariate analysis, marked hepatobiliary phase hypointensity (odds ratio [OR], 9.98), LR-M category (OR, 5.60), and serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level > 400 ng/mL (OR, 3.58) were incorporated into the predictive model; the predictive score achieved an AUC of 0.802 and 0.830 on the training and validation sets, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the predictive score were 66.7%, 85.7%, and 81.3%, respectively, on the training set and 66.7%, 81.0%, and 77.8%, respectively, on the validation set.

Conclusion

The proposed score integrating two EOB-MRI features and AFP level can accurately predict PD HCC in the preoperative setting.
Concurrent Warthin tumor and Kimura disease: a case report
Authors: Almazyad Asma , Al Khudiri Naheel , Alshieban Saeed S. , Pharaon Majed M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Warthin tumor (WT) is a common benign salivary tumor of the parotid gland. Clinically, it occurs in men in their fifth to seventh decades who typically smoke cigarettes. WTs have been reported with different head and neck neoplasms and other salivary gland tumors within the same or another salivary gland. Kimura disease (KD) is a rare chronic inflammatory disease with unknown etiology affecting young to middle-aged Asian men. KD presents as an asymptomatic nodule in the head and neck area, with regional lymphadenopathy and salivary gland involvement.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old Arabic man presented with a 10-year history of an asymptomatic swelling of the left face. Computed tomography showed a well-defined, multicystic mass with heterogeneous enhancement. The resected mass was composed of two distinct components. There was a well-demarcated proliferation of papillary and cystic oncocytic epithelium with lymphoid stroma, consistent with WT. Some areas exhibited sclerotic fibrosis, with multiple lymphoid follicles showing folliculolysis, follicular hyperplasia, and eosinophilic infiltrate. The patient’s immunoglobulin E level serum was elevated, confirming a coexisting KD. The patient underwent a left superficial parotidectomy, with no recurrence at a 30-month follow-up.

Conclusion

This report describes the first concurrent case of WT and KD in the parotid gland.
Self-critical perfectionism mediates the relationship between self-esteem and satisfaction with life in Lebanese university students
Authors: Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Sawma Toni , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil
Published: January 2023

Background

The psychological mechanisms that underlie the relationship between self-esteem and life satisfaction remain unclear and not well-understood. We sought through the present study to test the hypothesis that perfectionism plays a significant mediating role in the association between self-esteem and satisfaction with life among Lebanese university students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed in a sample of 363 students (61.7% females, mean age = 22.65 ± 3.48 years). Three research instruments were used: satisfaction with life scale, Rosenberg self-esteem scale and big three perfectionism scale.

Results

Higher self-esteem was significantly associated with lower self-critical perfectionism (Beta = − 0.47), whereas higher self-critical perfectionism was significantly associated with lower satisfaction in life (Beta = − 0.29). Finally, higher self-esteem was significantly and directly associated with higher satisfaction with life (Beta = 0.48).

Conclusion

The present preliminary findings point to the role of self-critical perfectionism as a buffer between self-esteem and satisfaction with life, suggesting the roles of self-esteem and perfectionism as promising avenues for promoting satisfaction with life in adolescent students.
The Effectiveness of Exercise Physiology Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Pragmatic Cohort Study
Authors: Owen Patrick J. , Keating Shelley E. , Askew Christopher D. , Clanchy Kelly M. , Jansons Paul , Maddison Ralph , Maiorana Andrew , McVicar Jenna , Robinson Suzanne , Neason Christopher , Clarkson Matthew J. , Mundell Niamh L.
Published: January 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic markedly changed how healthcare services are delivered and telehealth delivery has increased worldwide. Whether changes in healthcare delivery borne from the COVID-19 pandemic impact effectiveness is unknown. Therefore, we examined the effectiveness of exercise physiology services provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 138 clients who received exercise physiology services during the initial COVID-19 pandemic. Outcome measures of interest were EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS, patient-specific functional scale, numeric pain rating scale and goal attainment scaling.

Results

Most (59%, n = 82) clients received in-person delivery only, whereas 8% (n = 11) received telehealth delivery only and 33% (n = 45) received a combination of delivery modes. Mean (SD) treatment duration was 11 (7) weeks and included 12 (6) sessions lasting 48 (9) minutes. The majority (73%, n = 101) of clients completed > 80% of exercise sessions. Exercise physiology improved mobility by 14% (β = 0.23, P = 0.003), capacity to complete usual activities by 18% (β = 0.29, P < 0.001), capacity to complete important activities that the client was unable to do or having difficulty performing by 54% (β = 2.46, P < 0.001), current pain intensity by 16% (β = − 0.55, P = 0.038) and goal attainment scaling t-scores by 50% (β = 18.37, P < 0.001). Effectiveness did not differ between delivery modes (all: P > 0.087).

Conclusions

Exercise physiology services provided during the COVID-19 pandemic improved a range of client-reported outcomes regardless of delivery mode. Further exploration of cost-effectiveness is warranted.
Recreational Athletes’ Use of Performance-Enhancing Substances: Results from the First European Randomized Response Technique Survey
Authors: Christiansen Ask Vest , Frenger Monika , Chirico Andrea , Pitsch Werner
Published: January 2023

Background and Aim

Measuring the prevalence of doping in recreational sport is difficult. However, to fit their initiatives, National Anti-Doping Organizations are interested in knowing the numbers, so their scarce resources are not wasted. The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of doping and over-the-counter medicine use for performance enhancement among recreational athletes in eight European countries.

Design

A survey covering + 200 sports aimed at recreational athletes 15 years and older was distributed via social media to sports clubs and individuals in eight European countries. To overcome social desirability bias, we applied indirect questioning by using the Randomized Response Technique and asked for the use of over-the-counter medicine and doping for the year 2019.

Results

The prevalence of the use of over-the-counter medications for performance enhancement was estimated at 10.4%. We differentiated between the concept of “doping” as the behavior to enhance performance in a certain sport and the concept of “a doper” as a property of a person. The prevalence of dopers in recreational sport was found to be 0.4%, with 3.1% male and 0% female dopers. Responses were separated into four categories: “Artistic sports,” “Combat sports,” “Games,” and “CGS sports” (i.e., sports measured in centimeters, grams, and seconds). The overall prevalence of doping in recreational sports was found to be 1.6%, and the results from Artistic and CGS sports did not differ significantly from this. However, in Games we found an estimated doping prevalence of 6.9%.

Discussion

The estimates for the prevalence of dopers and doping in this study do not equal Anti-Doping Rule Violations as stipulated by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Still, while doping is not absent in recreational sport in Europe, it appears to be a low frequent phenomenon. Also, the differences in doping prevalence between the sports categories might reflect structural and competition-related differences, rather than differences in the logic of the sporting competition or discipline-related subcultures.

Conclusion

While few recreational athletes appear to use illegal drugs to enhance performance, those who do use them are more often men than women. Yet, 1 in 10 recreational athletes uses over-the-counter medication for performance enhancement and more than 4 out of 10 use medication for other reasons than performance enhancement when doing sports. The highest doping prevalence was found in the sub-category of Games, which can likely be attributed to competition-related differences between the categories. Therefore, research on doping in recreational sports needs tailored approaches to come to a better understanding of the phenomenon.
The influence of CEO’s financial literacy on SMEs technological innovation: the mediating effects of MCS and risk-taking
Authors: Duréndez Antonio , Dieguez-Soto Julio , Madrid-Guijarro Antonia
Published: January 2023

Previous literature showed mixed results about the impact of CEOs’ financial literacy (CFL) on small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs) innovation. This relationship can be motivated by relevant variables, which are missing in the previous literature and make a difference as mediators. In this sense, based on the theoretical framework related to upper echelon theory and resource-based view, this study focuses on the mediating effect of risk-taking attitude and management control systems (MCS) variables. Empirical data from 310 SMEs gathered using a qualitative research questionnaire are analyzed using structural equation modeling methodology. Specifically, estimations are carried out considering the partial least square method. Findings show that MCS and managers’ risk attitudes fully mediate the relationship between financial literacy (FL) and innovation. Between these two mediating variables, the implementation of MCS stands out because it also enables the mediating effect of CEOs’ risk-taking in the CFL–technological innovation relationship. As the results do not support the significant direct relationship between FL and risk attitude, they confirm an indirect effect through MCS. Furthermore, based on the study findings, SMEs’ directors and owners, business associations, and public authorities can improve SMEs’ technological innovation by implementing training programs and policies to foster CFL. They can also acknowledge the interdependency between organizational factors and individual characteristics to enhance SMEs’ technological innovation.
Using global feedback to induce learning of gist of abnormality in mammograms
Authors: Raat E. M. , Kyle-Davidson C. , Evans K. K.
Published: January 2023

Extraction of global structural regularities provides general ‘gist’ of our everyday visual environment as it does the gist of abnormality for medical experts reviewing medical images. We investigated whether naïve observers could learn this gist of medical abnormality. Fifteen participants completed nine adaptive training sessions viewing four categories of unilateral mammograms: normal, obvious-abnormal, subtle-abnormal, and global signals of abnormality (mammograms with no visible lesions but from breasts contralateral to or years prior to the development of cancer) and receiving only categorical feedback. Performance was tested pre-training, post-training, and after a week’s retention on 200 mammograms viewed for 500 ms without feedback. Performance measured as d’ was modulated by mammogram category, with the highest performance for mammograms with visible lesions. Post-training, twelve observed showed increased d’ for all mammogram categories but a subset of nine, labelled learners also showed a positive correlation of d’ across training. Critically, learners learned to detect abnormality in mammograms with only the global signals, but improvements were poorly retained. A state-of-the-art breast cancer classifier detected mammograms with lesions but struggled to detect cancer in mammograms with the global signal of abnormality. The gist of abnormality can be learned through perceptual/incidental learning in mammograms both with and without visible lesions, subject to individual differences. Poor retention suggests perceptual tuning to gist needs maintenance, converging with findings that radiologists’ gist performance correlates with the number of cases reviewed per year, not years of experience. The human visual system can tune itself to complex global signals not easily captured by current deep neural networks.
Influence of steel plates on the compressive strength and pore structure of concrete
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2023

To accurately predict the strength of concrete in a combined structure, this paper analyzed the effect of steel plates on the pore structure and strength of concrete. Two concrete strengths and eight steel plate thicknesses were used for the experimental specimens, and their pore structures and strengths were tested at 3, 7, and 28 days. It was found that the pore structure of concrete increased with the increase in steel plate thickness. Additionally, the strength of concrete decreased with the increase in steel plate thickness. Besides, an equation was proposed to predict the strength of concrete in specimens with steel plates in this research.
Predictors of Metformin Failure: Repurposing Electronic Health Record Data to Identify High-Risk Patients
Authors: Bielinski Suzette J , Yanes Cardozo Licy L , Takahashi Paul Y , Larson Nicholas B , Castillo Alexandra , Podwika Alana , De Filippis Eleanna , Hernandez Valentina , Mahajan Gouri J , Gonzalez Crystal , Shubhangi  , Decker Paul A , Killian Jill M , Olson Janet E , St. Sauver Jennifer L , Shah Pankaj , Vella Adrian , Ryu Euijung , Liu Hongfang , Marshall Gailen D , Cerhan James R , Singh Davinder , Summers Richard L
Published: January 2023

Context

Metformin is the first-line drug for treating diabetes but has a high failure rate.

Objective

To identify demographic and clinical factors available in the electronic health record (EHR) that predict metformin failure.

Methods

A cohort of patients with at least 1 abnormal diabetes screening test that initiated metformin was identified at 3 sites (Arizona, Mississippi, and Minnesota). We identified 22 047 metformin initiators (48% female, mean age of 57 ± 14 years) including 2141 African Americans, 440 Asians, 962 Other/Multiracial, 1539 Hispanics, and 16 764 non-Hispanic White people. We defined metformin failure as either the lack of a target glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (<7%) within 18 months of index or the start of dual therapy. We used tree-based extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) models to assess overall risk prediction performance and relative contribution of individual factors when using EHR data for risk of metformin failure.

Results

In this large diverse population, we observed a high rate of metformin failure (43%). The XGBoost model that included baseline HbA1c, age, sex, and race/ethnicity corresponded to high discrimination performance (C-index of 0.731; 95% CI 0.722, 0.740) for risk of metformin failure. Baseline HbA1c corresponded to the largest feature performance with higher levels associated with metformin failure. The addition of other clinical factors improved model performance (0.745; 95% CI 0.737, 0.754, P < .0001).

Conclusion

Baseline HbA1c was the strongest predictor of metformin failure and additional factors substantially improved performance suggesting that routinely available clinical data could be used to identify patients at high risk of metformin failure who might benefit from closer monitoring and earlier treatment intensification.
Clinical and Genetic Characterization of Familial Central Precocious Puberty
Authors: Tinano Flávia Rezende , Canton Ana Pinheiro Machado , Montenegro Luciana R , de Castro Leal Andrea , Faria Aline G , Seraphim Carlos E , Brauner Raja , Jorge Alexander A , Mendonca Berenice B , Argente Jesús , Brito Vinicius N , Latronico Ana Claudia
Published: January 2023

Context

Central precocious puberty (CPP) can have a familial form in approximately one-quarter of the children. The recognition of this inherited condition increased after the identification of autosomal dominant CPP with paternal transmission caused by mutations in the MKRN3 and DLK1 genes.

Objective

We aimed to characterize the inheritance and estimate the prevalence of familial CPP in a large multiethnic cohort; to compare clinical and hormonal features, as well as treatment response to GnRH analogs (GnRHa), in children with distinct modes of transmission; and to investigate the genetic basis of familial CPP.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 586 children with a diagnosis of CPP. Patients with familial CPP (n = 276) were selected for clinical and genetic analysis. Data from previous studies were grouped, encompassing sequencing of MKRN3 and DLK1 genes in 204 patients. Large-scale parallel sequencing was performed in 48 individuals from 34 families.

Results

The prevalence of familial CPP was estimated at 22%, with a similar frequency of maternal and paternal transmission. Pedigree analyses of families with maternal transmission suggested an autosomal dominant inheritance. Clinical and hormonal features, as well as treatment response to GnRHa, were similar among patients with different forms of transmission of familial CPP. MKRN3 loss-of-function mutations were the most prevalent cause of familial CPP, followed by DLK1 loss-of-function mutations, affecting, respectively, 22% and 4% of the studied families; both affected exclusively families with paternal transmission. Rare variants of uncertain significance were identified in CPP families with maternal transmission.

Conclusion

We demonstrated a similar prevalence of familial CPP with maternal and paternal transmission. MKRN3 and DLK1 loss-of-function mutations were the major causes of familial CPP with paternal transmission.
Skeletal Muscle Myokine Expression in Critical Illness, Association With Outcome and Impact of Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Vanhorebeek Ilse , Gunst Jan , Casaer Michaël P , Derese Inge , Derde Sarah , Pauwels Lies , Segers Johan , Hermans Greet , Gosselink Rik , Van den Berghe Greet
Published: January 2023

Context

Muscle expresses and secretes several myokines that bring about benefits in distant organs.

Objective

We investigated the impact of critical illness on muscular expression of irisin, kynurenine aminotransferases, and amylase; association with clinical outcome; and impact of interventions that attenuate muscle wasting/weakness.

Methods

We studied critically ill patients who participated in 2 randomized controlled trials (EPaNIC/NESCI) and documented time profiles in critically ill mice. Included in the study were 174 intensive care unit (ICU) patients (day 8 ± 1) vs 19 matched controls, and 60 mice subjected to surgery/sepsis vs 60 pair-fed healthy mice. Interventions studied included 7-day neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), and withholding parenteral nutrition (PN) in the first ICU week (late PN) vs early PN. The main outcome measures were FNDC5 (irisin- precursor), KYAT1, KYAT3, and amylase mRNA expression in skeletal muscle.

Results

Critically ill patients showed 34% to 80% lower mRNA expression of FNDC5, KYAT1, and amylases than controls (P < .0001). Critically ill mice showed time-dependent reductions in all mRNAs compared with healthy mice (P ≤ .04). The lower FNDC5 expression in patients was independently associated with a higher ICU mortality (P = .015) and ICU-acquired weakness (P = .012), whereas the lower amylase expression in ICU survivors was independently associated with a longer ICU stay (P = .0060). Lower amylase expression was independently associated with a lower risk of death (P = .048), and lower KYAT1 expression with a lower risk of weakness (P = .022). NMES increased FNDC5 expression compared with unstimulated muscle (P = .016), and late PN patients had a higher KYAT1 expression than early PN patients (P = .022).

Conclusion

Expression of the studied myokines was affected by critical illness and associated with clinical outcomes, with limited effects of interventions that attenuate muscle wasting or weakness.
Combined Hypophysitis and Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Related to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Fujita Yasunori , Kamitani Fumika , Yamamoto Masaaki , Fukuoka Hidenori , Hirota Yushi , Nishiyama Nobuharu , Goda Naho , Okada Yuko , Inaba Yuiko , Nakajima Hiroki , Kurematsu Yukako , Kanie Keitaro , Shichi Hiroki , Urai Shin , Suzuki Masaki , Yamamoto Naoki , Bando Hironori , Iguchi Genzo , Suto Hirotaka , Funakoshi Yohei , Kiyota Naomi , Takahashi Yutaka , Ogawa Wataru
Published: January 2023

Context

The occurrence of multiple endocrinopathies due to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is a relatively common adverse event. However, the occurrence of a combination of hypophysitis and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is extremely rare, and its clinical features are unclear.

Objective

We comparatively analyzed the clinical features of this combination and each individual ICI-induced endocrinopathy.

Methods

We reported 3 cases that we encountered and reviewed previously reported cases of patients with combined hypophysitis and T1DM due to ICIs.

Results

Anti-programmed cell death-1 (anti-PD-1) antibodies were prescribed to all 3 cases. The duration from ICI initiation to the onset of endocrine disease was 12 to 48 weeks. Several human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes that have disease susceptibility to hypophysitis were detected in all 3 patients. With the 17 previously reported cases, combined endocrinopathies were more common in men (85%). The onset age was in the 60s for both combined and single endocrinopathies. Anti-PD-1 antibodies were used in most of the cases (90%). The time from ICI initiation to the onset of endocrinopathies was 24 (8-76) weeks for hypophysitis and 32 (8-76) weeks for T1DM in patients with combined endocrinopathies, which was not significantly different from that for each single endocrinopathy.

Conclusion

We presented 3 cases of patients with combined endocrinopathies of hypophysitis and T1DM that may have been caused by anti-PD-1 antibodies. There was no difference in the time from ICI initiation to the onset of endocrinopathies between combined and single endocrinopathies. Further case accumulation and pathogenic investigations are required.
New Diagnostic Modality Combining Mass Spectrometry and Machine Learning for the Discrimination of Malignant Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms
Authors: Kiritani Sho , Iwano Tomohiko , Yoshimura Kentaro , Saito Ryo , Nakayama Takashi , Yamamoto Daisuke , Hakoda Hiroyuki , Watanabe Genki , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Arita Junichi , Kaneko Junichi , Takeda Sén , Ichikawa Daisuke , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: January 2023

Background

An intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is a pancreatic tumor with malignant potential. Although we anticipate a sensitive method to diagnose the malignant conversion of IPMN, an effective strategy has not yet been established. The combination of probe electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (PESI-MS) and machine learning provides a promising solution for this purpose.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed 42 serum samples obtained from IPMN patients who underwent pancreatic resection between 2020 and 2021. Based on the postoperative pathological diagnosis, patients were classified into two groups: IPMN-low grade dysplasia (n = 17) and advanced-IPMN (n = 25). Serum samples were analyzed by PESI-MS, and the obtained mass spectral data were converted into continuous variables. These variables were used to discriminate advanced-IPMN from IPMN-low grade dysplasia by partial least square regression or support vector machine analysis. The areas under receiver operating characteristics curves were obtained to visualize the difference between the two groups.

Results

Partial least square regression successfully discriminated the two disease classes. From another standpoint, we selected 130 parameters from the entire dataset by PESI-MS, which were fed into the support vector machine. The diagnostic accuracy was 88.1%, and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve was 0.924 by this method. Approximately 10 min were required to perform each method.

Conclusion

PESI-MS combined with machine learning is an easy-to-use tool with the advantage of rapid on-site analysis. Here, we show the great potential of our system to diagnose the malignant conversion of IPMN, which would be a promising diagnostic tool in clinical settings.
“THE DEMOCRATIC CYBORG PROJECT” OF JAMES HUGHES
Authors: Khvastunova Julia V.
Published: January 2023

James Hughes, American sociologist and bioethicist, a founder of the movement of democratic transhumanism and Director of the Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies (IEET), is also a developer of a special original project which presupposes techno-optimism as its methodological foundation, more critical and pro-state approach to radical technologies (in contrast to the libertarian transhumanism previously promoted in the Extropian movement) and a strong bias towards attracting religious ideas and methods, especially the pro-Buddhist ones. This explains the interest of the scientist in religious practices and work on the “Cyborg Buddha” project. J. Hughes in his research analyzes American society along ideological axes and tries to combine them within the framework of democratic transhumanism (cyborg democracy). The latter must be approved at the state level and implemented through a special program. However, most of all, in promoting transhumanist ideas and creating a common cultural background, he relies on minority groups: from radical feminism (cyberfeminism), biopunk, supporters of LGBT movements, and to people with disabilities who will “benefit” from the experimental methods and radical transformations. In general, Hughes’ ideas remain quite radical, focus on the creation of a transhuman and a posthuman, and discard the existence of modern type people and their “outdated and too-human” culture in the future.
THE DECORATIVE SPACE OF AN ANCIENT EGYPTIAN PRIVATE TOMB AS A SIGN SYSTEM
Authors: Kulikov Fedor I.
Published: January 2023

This paper examines the decorative space of the Egyptian tomb of the Old Kingdom as a system of architectural and pictorial components. The comparative historical method was used along with the methods of formal and systematic analyses of material from more than a hundred noble burials. The article states that the main purpose of the Egyptian tomb is to maintain the existence of the Double of its owner, for which the architectural and visual space was formed in a special way. It was identified that the large images of nobles are a complex combination of attribute signs necessary to establish the desired correlation with the adjacent labor scenes. These visual signs (various wigs, wands, staves, vestments, etc.) tend not only to convey the information about the corresponding plot, but also to replace and reproduce it. Thus, in a large image of a nobleman, the main material of the scene placed in front of him is accumulated; such images imply the presence of the corresponding plots nearby, and the Egyptian tomb can be studied from the standpoint of semiotics.
METALANGUAGE THEORY: INTERPRETATION OF ZI-SHU-NV’S MARRIAGE BELIEF
Authors: Suojun Zhang , Astatyan Zoya D.
Published: January 2023

The relevance of the study is determined by the necessity to understand the mechanisms of formation within a society of socially significant ideas, beliefs and behavioral strategies.

The aim is to interpret the notions of marriage that existed in China’s Pearl River Delta region among Zi-Shu-Nv girls who were known for choosing not to marry.

Materials and methods. The article deals with the semiotic approach to the analysis of Zi-Shu-Nv marriage belief in Chinese culture. This belief is interpreted as a cultural text, part of semio-sphere. The method of analysis was the interpretation of the phenomenon based on deconstruction from the perspective of metalanguage theory with a focus on contextual metalanguage, interpretive competence metalanguage and textual metalanguage.

Results. Each metalanguage is characterized by its own codes and rules. The article underlines the role of each metalanguage in the origin and development of Zi-Shu-NVs’ marriage belief. The authors come to the conclusion that this belief is an inevitable outcome under the influence of social, personal and textual peculiarities of its time.

Practical implications. The results can be used in the interpretation of social phenomena in modern society.
INTERVENTION PROGRAM FOR FL TEXT COMPREHENSION
Authors: Kudinova Olga A. , Kudinova Valentina I.
Published: January 2023

Purpose. The article is devoted to the study of an innovative method that can be used by teachers to develop reading skills in foreign language lessons, in particular, with the help of an intervention program for reading comprehension in English, which can be effectively used in the process of teaching/ learning a foreign language, as well as generalization of research results taking into account the approbation of the proposed method.

Methodology. The research is based on the theoretical study and synthesis of scientific and methodological literature, as well as Internet resources related to the research topic; general scientific methods – analysis and generalization are used.

Results. The results of the study showed that the intervention program for foreign language (FL) text comprehension can be used in reading classes at different stages of work on a foreign language text, which contributes to the activation of students’ learning activities, increasing their language competence and motivation. As a result of the analysis of the scientific material and its approbation, it was suggested that the integration of the intervention program into the process of teaching a foreign language, in particular the English language, will allow teachers to improve their teaching methods, and students to develop their processes of understanding and perception of the text more actively, increase their motivation to read in a foreign language. This will create a positive social atmosphere in the classroom, which will contribute to the subsequent achievement of the required educational results.

Practical implications. The results of the study showed that it is possible to optimize the methodology of teaching a foreign language by stimulating cognitive and metacognitive processes and supporting affective and social determinants when working with foreign language texts, which contributes to a deeper understanding of what is read.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF CHILD-PARENT RELATIONS IN FULL AND INCOMPLETE FAMILIES WITH PRESCHOOLERS
Authors: Pavlova Anna V. , Slavutskaya Elena V.
Published: January 2023

Currently, the range of research related to the specifics of child-parent relations is constantly expanding and deepening, which, of course, is associated with an increasing understanding in society of the most important importance of the family as a social institution. Therefore, the study of the relationship between satisfaction with marriage and child-parent relations in families with older preschoolers remains an urgent topic for psychological and pedagogical research.

The article presents the results of studying mothers of preschoolers to different aspects of family life using the PARI method (E.S. Schaefer and R.K. Bell). Full and incomplete families were examined. The authors identified the features and differences in the structure of child-parent relations in full and incomplete families. Also, there are differences in the structure of child-parent relations in families with preschoolers 3-5 years old and in families with preschoolers 6-7 years old. The data obtained make it possible to develop a system of trainings and programs for working with parents who have insufficiently optimal child-parent contact and to track changes in child-parent relations after psychological and pedagogical influence (trainings, seminars, master classes, personal consultations).
UNIFIED STATE EXAMINATION AND MORAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL STATE: THE OPINION OF FRESHMEN
Authors: Maltseva Svetlana M. , Stroganov Dmitry A. , Ryzhakova Elena V. , Ryabkova Elena A.
Published: January 2023

Relevance. This article examines the issue of the psychological health of a teenager in connection with the impact on him of the Unified State Exam – final certification conducted in the eleventh grade. The main aspects of the exam that have an impact on the adolescent state are considered. The main psychological experiences that are characteristic of adolescent applicants during the examination period are reflected. The research methods in this article are the analysis, description and survey of 1-2 year students, that is, those who passed the Unified State Exam not so long ago. Results. It is established that the pressure of teachers is almost twice as high as the parent’s. Failure in the exam is perceived as the end of life. Every year the exam is changed, but the pressure increases. The authors come to the conclusion that schools need a psychological help service for teenagers, especially high school students, it is necessary to teach children in practice how to effectively self-help during stress.
FORMATION OF ETHNIC TOLERANCE AMONG STUDENT YOUTH OF THE CRIMEA
Authors: Kemalova Lilya I.
Published: January 2023

Purpose. The article is devoted to the problem of the development of ethnic tolerance in higher educational institutions. The purpose of the article is to reveal the importance of the development of ethnic tolerance among the youth of Crimea as a condition for maintaining interethnic harmony and stability in a multiethnic region. The objectives of the research: to identify the essence of the phenomenon of ethnic tolerance, to consider the stages of formation and indicators of the students’ ethno-tolerance formation’s level, to analyze the results of an empirical study aimed at discovering ethnic identity as one of the factors affecting the development of ethnic tolerance, using the example of cadets of marine specialties of the Federal State Budget Educational Institution of Higher Education “Kerch Marine Technological University”.

The method and methodology of the research. The basis of the research is formed by the theoretical methods (analysis, comparison, generalization) and the empirical method – the survey according to “The types of ethnic identity” method by G.U. Soldatova and S.V. Ryzhova.

Results. The novelty of the research is to recognize the role of educational environment of the University in the formation of students’ ethnic tolerance (on the example of cadets of marine specialties) through educational activities (in the process of studying social and humanitarian disciplines) and extra-educational activities (in the process of conducting trainings on the formation of a tolerant position as a factor in the prevention of interethnic conflicts , using the experience of the Center for Intercultural Communication and Social Integration of Students, conducting continuous monitoring of the level of ethnic tolerance of cadets of the Kerch Marine Technological University, whose future profession requires communication skills in a multi-ethnic environment of the marine crew).

Practical implications. The results of the study can be used in the process of educational work with students of the University in order to prevent interethnic conflicts.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE TRAINING OF ENGINEERS IN THE DIRECTION OF “INDUSTRIAL AND CIVIL CONSTRUCTION” IN RUSSIA AND GERMANY
Authors: Eroshenko Alexandra V. , Trofimova Ljudmila N.
Published: January 2023

Background. One of the most pressing problems of modern Russian education is the exclusion of Russia from the Bologna Agreement. The main goals set for Russian higher education, which were pursued when signing the Bologna Agreement, are outlined.

Materials. On the example of the German and Russian curricula for the first semester in the direction of “Industrial and Civil Engineering” demonstrated a fundamentally different approach to the training of future engineers.

Results. The European system of technical higher education provides highly specialized training aimed at obtaining a civil engineering profession. Bachelor’s education in accordance with the Bologna Agreement is comparable to secondary specialized education. The Russian system of higher education prepares a diversified specialist capable of solving diverse tasks.

Conclusion. The division of higher technical education into classical (science-intensive) and specialized (applied) is proposed. Classical education will include the training of employees of science and education. Specialized education is focused on the training of highly qualified specialists.
Study of indicators of endothelial dysfunction in rats with experimental peritonitis
Authors: Gutsulyuk V. , Savytskyi I. , Tsypoviaz S. , Znamerovskyi S. , Sarahan V. , Gerasymenko T.
Published: January 2023

The article presents the results of the study of the activity of endothelial and inducible NO-synthase, the level of Willebrand factor and endothelin-1 in rats with experimental peritonitis. The most likely mechanism that is damaged in the endothelium during peritonitis is the activation of the synthesis of inducible NO-synthase by neutrophils/macrophages in response to infection. It is possible that hyperproduction of nitric oxide (NO), on the one hand, is aimed at destroying microflora and oxidizing toxins, and on the other hand, at suppressing the expression of tissue factor and cell adhesion molecules. platelet aggregation and cascade disorders in the hemostasis system. All this indicates that the hyperproduction of NO not only reflects the processes that occur in the focus of damage to the vascular endothelium, but also affects the severity of the inflammatory process and the outcome of the disease. In animals with experimental peritonitis on the background of OS, an increase in the number of circulating desquamated endothelial cells in the blood, which is a highly specific marker of endothelial dysfunction, was noted. The level of the Willebrand factor also increased, which can serve as a marker of increased risk of thrombus formation and indicate the pathogenetic dependence of the factors that damage the vascular wall endothelium on the concentration of the Willebrand factor, which contributes to the reduction of vascular permeability by adhesion of platelets to the endothelium. Confirmation of the development of endothelial dysfunction in peritonitis is an increase in the concentration of endothelin-1, which is a regulator of the process of vascular neoangiogenesis in response to endothelial damage.
Students' Learning Perception in Engineering, Health and Education During Emergency Remote Education in Chile
Authors: Villarroel Verónica , González Alvaro
Published: January 2023

Higher education institutions around the world had to implement an emergency remote education (ERE) modality due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to determine the individual and relational factors that affect the perception of learning in engineering, education, and health students during emergency distance education. Through a quantitative, non-experimental, and correlational study, an online survey was administered to a sample of 929 higher education students regarding their ERE experience. They were surveyed regarding their perceived learning, empathy, classroom interaction, self-regulation of learning, positive agency, student engagement, learning approaches, and use of digital resources. Data was analyzed using quantitative methods, namely correlations, comparisons of means and a linear regression analysis. Education students showed a more positive perception of learning, used a deep learning approach, and rated more positively the empathy shown by their professors and the possibilities for class participation than other students. Engineering students had the lowest scores on perceived learning and on almost all other variables. In general, students with a better perception of learning presented a higher engagement in their studies and a lower use of surface learning approach.
Transforming Africa’s food systems: a smallholder farmers’ perspective
Authors: Mutyasira Vine
Published: January 2023

The 2021 UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) awakened the world to the critical need for food systems transformation. Several commitments were made during the summit, with the UN Secretary-General reiterating the need to support national mechanisms that develop and implement national pathways to 2030 that are inclusive and consistent with countries’ climate commitments, building upon the national food systems dialogues. Much of the discussion in the post-summit era has mostly been high level and focused on how countries can be supported to transform pathways into strategies and to design and operationalise investment plans aimed at fostering sustainable and inclusive food systems transformation. However, what has been missing in these discussions is what the envisaged transformation means for the smallholder farmer, and what it takes for smallholder farmers to embrace the transformative agenda and transition to more sustainable methods of production. In this article, reference is made to two of the Five Action Tracks, namely Action Track 3 (boost nature-based solutions) and Action Track 5 (build resilience to vulnerabilities, shocks and stresses), whose central themes are anchored around resilience and sustainability. The paper discusses the underpinnings of nature-positive production systems and explores how these systems interface with smallholder farmers’ circumstances and production goals, and how this might affect implementation of the envisaged practices at the farm level. The central argument in this article is that discussions around food systems transformation must include the smallholder farmers, their lived experiences, socio-economic circumstances, aspirations and production goals.
Kenduri Sko : Women As Leadership Heritages In The Tradition Of The Pengasi Lama Village Bukit Kerman District, Kerinci Regency
Authors: Putra Martias
Published: January 2023

Kenduri Sko can make women take the highest throne to become heirs to the traditional leadership of Pengasi Lama Village, This research uses a qualitative approach, with data collection techniques in the form of writing, or field observations. and various other data that are transformed or made in text form. The results showed that in the custom of Pengasi Lama Village, women who have been given the trust by the customary institution, women are very firm in maintaining the heirlooms that have been given, so this tradition is still preserved and sustainable until now. Historically, women can hold the highest throne in holding heirlooms, this is the result of the agreement of the previous ancestors. So that based on the analysis of local wisdom, the tradition of the transition of customary leadership in Pengasi Lama Village can be said to be a form of tradition from culture, which was left by the ancestors.
[Fokus permasalahan dalam artikel ini adalah bagaimana ritual adat dalam Kenduri Sko yang dapat menjadikan perempuan mengambil tahta tertinggi menjadi pewaris kepemimpinan adat Desa Pengasi Lama, Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif, dengan teknik pengumpulan data berupa tulisan, atau pengamatan lapangan. dan berbagai data lainnya yang ditransformasikan atau dibuat dalam bentuk teks. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dalam adat Desa Pengasi Lama, perempuan yang telah diberi kepercayaan oleh lembaga adat maka perempuan sangat tegas menjaga dan merawat pusaka yang telah diberikan, Maka tradisi ini tetap dilestarikan dan berkelanjutan hingga sekarang. Secara historis perempuan dapat memegang tahta tertinggi dalam memegang benda pusaka hal ini hasil dari kesepakatan para leluhur. Berdasarkan analisis kearifan lokal tradisi peralihan kepemimpinan adat Desa Pengasi Lama dapat dikatakan sebagai bentuk tradisi dari kebudayaan, yang ditinggalkan oleh para leluhur.]
Tradisi Penulisan Dan Pengajaran Kitab Pesantren: Proses Membangun Otoritas Dalam Kitab Kuning
Authors: Puput Lestari
Published: January 2023

Penelitian ini membahas tentang bagaimana tradisi penulisan dan pengajaran kitab kuning di lingkungan pesantren Indonesia secara umum. Ada beberapa rumusan masalah di antaranya, bagaimana otoritas dalam kitab kuning itu dibangun dan bagaimana karakteristik dari kitab pesantren tersebut. penelitian ini berfokus pada studi pustaka. Hasilnya, ada beberapa karakteristik yang penulis temukan antara lain, dilihat dari sudut pandang penggunaan bahasa Arab yakni sebagai bahasa penulisan kitab dan format penulisan kitab kuning berbentuk syarah, matan, hasyiyah, dan nukilan. Selain itu, para ulama pesantren mencoba membangun otoritas melalui penulisan kitab kuning. Otoritas tersebut tampak dengan masifnya penggunaan pedagogik dan literatur berbahasa Arab, serta kurikulum pengajarannya. Selain merujuk pada kitab-kitab yang berbahasa Arab, kitab kuning mengandung makna simbolis untuk membedakan Muslim tradisionalis dari Muslim reformis yang wawasan keislamannya berdasarkan pada pembacaan buku-buku keislaman dengan tulisan latin dan dalam bahasa Indonesia (buku putih).
[This study discusses how the tradition of writing and teaching the yellow book in Indonesian Islamic boarding schools in general. There are several formulations of the problem, including how the authority in the yellow book is built and what are the characteristics of the pesantren book. This research focuses on literature study. As a result, there are several characteristics that the writer found, among others, seen from the point of view of the use of Arabic, namely as the language of writing books and the format for writing the yellow book in the form of syarah, matan, hasyiyah, and excerpts. In addition, Islamic boarding school scholars try to build authority through writing the yellow book. This authority is seen in the massive use of Arabic pedagogic and literature, as well as the teaching curriculum. In addition to referring to books in Arabic, the yellow book contains a symbolic meaning to distinguis traditionalist Muslims from reformist Muslims whose Islamic insights are based on reading Islamic books written in Latin and in Indonesian (white books).]
THE SYSTEM OF OPTICAL-ELECTRONIC SORTING OF APPLES ON THE CONVEYOR
Authors: Balabanov P. V. , Divin A. G. , Egorov A. S. , Zhirkova A. A.
Published: January 2023

The system of optical-electronic quality control of apples is described. An algorithm for detecting apple defects is proposed. It provides for obtaining information from a linear photodetector of a hyperspectral camera about the intensity of reflected light in the range of 400...1000 nm in 2.5 nm increments and subsequent processing of the obtained spectra, including the calculation of five vegetation indices. They are used as input parameters of a neural network designed to classify apple plant tissues by types of defects. The results of testing the system showed an accuracy of detecting defects of at least 87 %.