bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mortality Rates Among Individuals Diagnosed with Pemphigus: 12-Year Experience in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Namazi Nastaran , Abdollahimajd Fahimeh , Mardani Ghazal , Razzaghi Zahra , Moravvej Hamideh
Published: February 2025

Background: Pemphigus consists of a group of rare autoimmune bullous diseases that affect the skin and mucous membranes. Pemphigus includes three major forms: pemphigus vulgaris (PV), pemphigus foliaceus, and paraneoplastic pemphigus. Before the advent of systemic corticosteroids (SCSs), pemphigus was usually a fatal disease. Rituximab (RTX), a monoclonal antibody against the CD20+B cells has been approved for the treatment of patients with pemphigus. Previous studies have confirmed the high efficacy and safety profile of RTX in pemphigus patients. We aimed to estimate the overall mortality and causes of death among pemphigus patients who were admitted to the hospitals of Shahid Beheshti University of medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, before and after administering RTX. Methods: We included 480 patients admitted to Shahid Beheshti University of medical Sciences hospitals, Tehran, Iran, from October 2010 to October 2022. The diagnosis of all patients was confirmed by direct immunofluorescence and pathological studies. All variables such as age, sex, type of pemphigus, presence of comorbidities, medications, and cause of death were assessed. Results: The prevalence of pemphigus was 262 (54.58%) in women and 218 (45.41%) in men (P value=0.004). These included 474 (98.75%) PV, 4 (0.83%) pemphigus foliaceus and 2 (0.41%) paraneoplastic pemphigus cases. The most common comorbidities were hypertension and diabetes mellitus (98 [20.41%] and 93 [19.37%], respectively). The overall mortality was 20 (4.16%), including 15 (75%) patients under treatment with high dose SCSs and immunosuppressive agents, and 5 (25%) patients who received at least 500 mg of RTX and low dose SCSs. Conclusion: The mean age of the disease was found to be a decade earlier than other parts of the world, with a higher preponderance of women. The most common comorbidities were hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Most deaths were due to infectious and cardiovascular diseases. Mortality rate was 1/3 in patients who received RTX compared to those who were treated with high dose corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive agents.
Comparison of Microleakage of Cention N and a Bulk-Fill Composite Resin in Restoring Deciduous Teeth: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Ghorbani Farnaz , Maleki Kambakhsh Sara , Ranjbar Omidi Baharan , Samadian Shahrzad
Published: February 2025

Background: Pediatric dentists prefer restorative materials with a high bond strength and fewer clinical stages. Cention N can be used in the bulk technique. It can release fluoride ions, calcium, and hydroxide. This study compared the microleakage of two types of composite resins, namely, Cention N and Tetric N-Ceram bulk-fill composite resin, in class II restorations (box only) of deciduous teeth. Methods: In this experimental investigation, 50 class II restorations (box only) were prepared in extracted deciduous second molars. Then, the teeth were divided into two groups based on their restorative materials. The first and second groups were restored with Cention N and bulk-fill Tetric N-Ceram composite resins, respectively. The Tetric N bond adhesive was used before placing the restorative materials in both groups. The samples were cut and investigated under a stereomicroscope to determine microleakage after thermocycling and staining with silver nitrate. Two samples from each group were prepared for observation under an electron microscope. Then, the data were analyzed using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test. Results: The mean percentage of dye penetration into the gingival wall was not significantly different between the two groups under investigation. Conclusion: Using Cention N with adhesive yielded favorable results in terms of microleakage, and it is recommended for class II restorations in deciduous molars.
Comparison of Apically Extruded Debris Using Neoniti A1, ProTaper Gold, and WaveOne Gold Rotary Files in Mandibular Premolars: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Donyavi Zakiyeh , Dehghan Banadkooki Somaye , Ranjpour Narges , Karimi Mianji Soheil
Published: February 2025

Background: One of the main stages of root treatment is mechanical preparation, which is performed using manual and rotary instruments with rotational and reciprocal movement. Complete debridement of the root canal in the preparation process is essential for a successful endodontic treatment. This study investigated the amount of apically extruded debris using WaveOne Gold, ProTaper Gold (PTG), and Neoniti A1 rotary files in mandibular premolars. Methods: As many as 60 mandibular premolar teeth were divided into three equal groups. Each group was prepared with a rotary file (WaveOne Gold, PTG, or Neoniti A1). Then, debris measurements were performed using the Montgomery method, and SPSS v-26 and robust and Brown-Forsythe tests were used for data analysis. Results: The results showed that the highest and lowest amounts of extruded debris were in the PTG and WaveOne Gold files, respectively. There was a significant difference between the means of the three groups (P ˂ 0.05). In addition, to further evaluate the difference, the Games-Howell post hoc test was utilized, demonstrating a significant difference between the means of all three groups (P ˂ 0.001). Conclusion: The findings revealed that all systems extrude debris beyond the apical foramen. The WaveOne Gold system showed the lowest average value of apically extruded debris, followed by Neoniti A1, while ProTaper had the highest average value of apically extruded debris among the investigated systems. Thus, it is recommended that future studies investigate the effects of the properties and characteristics associated with the type of rotary files.
Management of an Idiopathic Gingival Fibromatosis (Elephantiasis): A Case Report With a Two-Year Follow-up
Authors: Zarifpour Lina , Modaberi Ali
Published: February 2025

Background: Generalized gingival enlargement can arise from various causes. It may be hereditary, as observed in hereditary gingival fibromatosis, which occurs in association with syndromic conditions or results from the side effects of certain systemic medications such as phenytoin, cyclosporin, and nifedipine. This report discusses the condition of a 13-year-old girl who exhibited severe gingival overgrowth affecting both maxillary and mandibular arches, leading to substantial coverage of nearly all her teeth. The differential diagnosis included drug-induced enlargement and idiopathic gingival fibromatosis. Methods: A conventional flap surgery alongside osteoplasty was performed to address the excess gingival tissue. Due to the generalized nature of the enlargement, the surgery was conducted quadrant by quadrant. Results: The postoperative recovery was smooth, and the patient showed significant improvements in appearance. Follow-up evaluations over two years post-surgery indicated that the gingival condition remained stable. Conclusion: Idiopathic gingival fibromatosis, although rare, is marked by significant gingival overgrowth. Surgical resection enhances aesthetics and improves functionality. While the recurrence of the condition is common, it may be managed or delayed through careful monitoring and scheduled follow-up appointments.
Visibility of Inferior Alveolar Canal Borders Using Panoramic Radiography and Cross-sectional CBCT Images
Authors: Goodarzipour Daryoush , Mosavat Farzaneh , Fahimzad Mohammad Saleh , Bayati Mahsa
Published: February 2025

Background: Clinical identification of the inferior alveolar canal (IAC) is crucial before performing surgical interventions such as mandibular third molar extraction or jaw fixation to preserve the integrity of the IAC. This study evaluated the visibility of IAC borders using panoramic radiography (conventional and CBCT reformatted) and cross-sectional CBCT images. Methods: The conventional panoramic (CP) and CBCT images of 328 patients were evaluated, and the visibility of the IAC was assessed by three examiners across four equal 1 cm-wide regions, from anterior to posterior (Areas 1 to 4). For CBCT, reformatted panoramic (CRP) views were generated using curved multiplanar reformatting at the mandibular mid-root level within the software. Four cross-sectional images were obtained for each region. Visibility was rated as visible (score=1) or non-visible (score=0) across the three imaging modalities. Statistical significance was set at P value<0.05. Results: Across all three radiographic modalities, the inferior border of the IAC was more consistently visible than the superior border. The highest visibility of the inferior border was observed in Area 4, with visibility rates of 92.1% for cross-sectional CBCT, 91.5% for CBCT-reformatted panoramic, and 92.4% for CP. The lowest visibility was found at the superior border in Area 2, with visibility rates of 86.9% for cross-sectional CBCT, 80.2% for CBCT-reformatted panoramic, and 67.4% for CP. Conclusion: Visualization of the IAC in the distal area of the mental foramen is more challenging than in other areas across all radiographic modalities. Given the superior visibility levels observed in CBCT images, especially for the superior border in Areas 1, 2, and 3, CBCT is recommended over CP radiography.
Therapeutic Targeting of Akt1 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Natural Cinnamic Acids
Authors: Shojaei Setareh , Naiini Amirhoseyn , Jamshidi Shokoofeh , Taherkhani Amir
Published: February 2025

Background: Akt1, a serine/threonine kinase, plays a central role in cancer development and progression. Its overexpression correlates with aggressive phenotypes and poor prognosis in several types of cancers, such as oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Cinnamic acid derivatives (CADs) from natural sources exhibit anticancer properties, making them potential Akt1 inhibitors. Methods: The binding affinities of 19 CADs to the Akt1 catalytic cleft were evaluated using molecular docking simulations and then compared with the Akt1 inhibitor capivasertib. Interaction modes were analyzed to identify critical residues involved in ligand binding. Results: Cynarin demonstrated the highest binding affinity (ΔGbinding =-13.46 kcal/mol, Ki=136.48 pM), forming three hydrogen bonds with Akt1. Rosmarinic acid with six hydrogen bonds also exhibited potent inhibition (ΔGbinding =-11.51 kcal/mol , Ki=3.67 nM). Both compounds represented superior binding compared to capivasertib. Conclusion: Cynarin and rosmarinic acid from natural sources showed promising inhibitory potential against Akt1, suggesting their therapeutic values as anticancer agents targeting the PI3K/Akt pathway in OSCC.
Comparative Evaluation of Canal Transportation and Centering Ability of ProTaper Next, NeoNiTi, and R-Motion by CBCT Analysis in the Curved Root Canals of Permanent Mandibular First Molar: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Praveen D. , Mohammad Tashmeem , Satish R Kalyan , Amarapu Kaladhar , Prasad K. Durga , Bonu Saikiran
Published: February 2025

Background: The success of root canal therapy hinges on various factors, with biomechanical preparation standing out as a crucial step. Equally significant is the meticulous preservation of the canal’s natural shape, as any deviation from it can lead to complications such as canal aberrations or transportation. The aim of the study was to evaluate the canal transportation and canal centering ability of ProTaper Next (PTN), NeoNiTi, and R-Motion (RM) file systems using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: Thirty human mandibular molar roots with an angle of curvature between 100 and 200 were chosen into three groups of ten samples each from the pool of collected samples that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, including PTN (group I), NeoNiTi (group II), and RM file systems (group III). To achieve reproducibility of pre- and post-operative CBCT scans and to ease instrumentation, the tooth was placed in a template created using silicon impression material. Using CBCT software, pre- and post-instrumentation pictures were obtained from the apex at three different levels (3 mm, 6 mm, and 9 mm). One-way analysis of variance and post hoc analysis were used to evaluate the amount of transportation and centering ability. Results: RM demonstrated better canal centering ability than PTN and NeoNiTi at 3 mm and 6 mm, but there was no statistically significant difference in canal transportation between the three groups at levels of 3 mm, 6 mm, and 9 mm from the apex. Conclusion: PTN, NeoNiTi, and RM all exhibited similar behaviour under the study’s in-vitro conditions in terms of canal transportation and centering ability. However, the RM group outperformed the other systems in terms of both canal transportation and centering ability, with NeoNiTi and PTN systems coming in second and third, respectively.
Healthcare workers’ knowledge and practices in managing COVID-19: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Atayi Morteza , Mohammadi Donya , Mahdavi Nasim , Aliasghari Ehsan , Hamzepour Fatemeh
Published: February 2025

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a significant burden on healthcare workers (HCWs), particularly those involved in respiratory care. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of anesthesia staff regarding COVID-19 patient care and prevention measures. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among anesthesia staff in Iran from July 1 to December 25, 2021. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge, and preventive practices. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, analysis of variance, correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression. Results: While most participants demonstrated sufficient knowledge, significant gaps were identified in specific areas, such as hand hygiene and personal protective equipment (PPE) use. Factors associated with higher knowledge scores included being single, being a nurse, and having fewer daily work hours. Anesthesia staff generally adhered to preventive measures, with stronger adherence observed among anesthesia nurses and those with less experience. Conclusion: Despite sufficient knowledge, targeted training is needed to address knowledge gaps and improve adherence to preventive measures among anesthesia staff. This will contribute to a more resilient healthcare workforce and better preparedness for future pandemics.
Building a Healthier Iran: Effectiveness of Public Training on COVID-19 Awareness and Practices
Authors: Mahdavi Nasim , Atayi Morteza , Hamzepour Fatemeh , Aliasghari Ehsan , Najafi Neda , Ahmadizadeh Farzaneh , Kazemi Alireza
Published: February 2025

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted global health. This study aimed to assess the general population’s knowledge, practices, and trust in information sources related to COVID-19 in East Azerbaijan province, Iran. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed through social media platforms. Participants aged 13 or older were included in this study. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, sources of information, knowledge, and practices regarding COVID-19. Results: A total of 260 individuals participated in this study. Most of them demonstrated moderate knowledge and practice scores. The primary source of information was social media, while healthcare workers (HCWs) were considered the most trustworthy. Factors associated with better practices included female gender, urban residence, COVID-19 infection experience, and COVID-19 news follow-up. Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of reliable information sources and targeted interventions to improve knowledge and practices regarding COVID-19. Addressing misinformation and promoting evidence-based practices are crucial for effective public health responses to future pandemics.
Enhancing caregiver resilience: A systematic review of interventions for chronic disease management
Authors: Mohammadi Saber Saeedeh , Rahimian Behzad
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Caregivers of patients with chronic diseases (PwCD) devote a substantial amount of energy to the care of their PwCD. This study aimed to review interventions fostering resilience in caregivers of PwCD. Methods: A systematic review of literature published either through databases Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Magiran, and SID or Google Scholar search engine was undertaken. The review was conducted according to the PRISMA review guidelines. Results: Ten studies were included in this review. Quantitative data provides empirical support for the advantages of psychoeducation, mindfulness-based intervention, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based intervention, and strengthening family coping resources approach, supportive-educational program based on COPE (Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced) model and commitment therapy. Seven out of ten included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Conclusion: The present review revealed that psychoeducation, mindfulness-based intervention, CBT-based intervention, strengthening family coping resources approach, supportive-educational Program based on COPE model, and commitment therapy may promote resilience amongst the caregivers of PwCD. Although, it remains unclear which specific intervention would be the most efficacious in improving resilience. Additional rigorous clinical trials are necessary to fortify the current limited evidence base for interventions targeting caregiver resilience.
Health workers knowledge, attitudes and practices towards youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health service delivery in Calabar Metropolis, South-South, Nigeria
Authors: Ike Felicity Nneoma , Okolie Elvis Anyaehiechukwu , Bassey Phillip Etabee
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The provision of youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services (YFSRHS) is critical to improving young people’s health outcomes. However, millions of young people in Nigeria face numerous barriers to accessing YFSRHS. Therefore, this study assessed the health workers’ knowledge, attitude, and practices towards the delivery of YFSRHS in Calabar Metropolis. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional descriptive design was utilised for this study. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to select 424 health workers from 50 primary healthcare facilities in Calabar Metropolis. Data was collected using a 30-item structured questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 26. Results: The majority (72.8%) of the health workers were females, with 44.7% aged between 21 and 30. A considerable proportion of the respondents had moderate (56.3%) to high (29.9%) knowledge of YFSRHS. Despite most respondents having positive attitudes, a high proportion recorded poor practices, as 58.3% provided sexual and reproductive health services without the use of written guidelines, 87.4% were not trained, and a further 52.9% reported that they did not provide these services in a safe space. Lack of motivation, religious and cultural beliefs, and lack of training were identified as barriers to the delivery of YFSRHS. Conclusion: Moderate to high levels of knowledge and positive attitudes among health workers did not translate into desired practices in YFSRH service delivery. A re-orientation of healthcare workers within Calabar Metropolis is needed to improve the delivery of YFSRHS for the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), teenage pregnancy and maternal deaths among young people.
Evaluation of the Environmental Performance of Seasonal Spaces in the Vernacular Architecture of the Regions With Cold Climate: A Case Study in Ardabil
Authors: Kharrat Sadeghi Marjaneh , Javadi Nodeh Mahsa , Sarabi Mehrdad
Published: February 2025

Background: Attention to climatic elements has played a crucial role in fostering harmony between the built environment and nature. Incorporating these elements into the design of modern buildings not only enhances the health and well-being of occupants but also helps mitigate anthropogenic environmental pollution. In this context, the present study aims to examine the environmental performance of various spaces in the vernacular architecture of Ardabil across cold and hot seasons. The objective is to identify climate-responsive strategies that contribute to reducing energy consumption and minimizing environmental pollution. Methods: To this end, two traditional houses in Ardabil were studied using a data logger. Data collection was carried out through field observations and logical reasoning, followed by numerical analyses to evaluate the environmental performance of the structures. Results: The results indicated that the temperature of the indoor spaces in these houses was at least 10.45 °C higher than that of the outdoor spaces during the cold months of the year. Conclusion: The application of climate-responsive strategies, particularly passive solar designs during winter, in the construction of traditional houses was estimated to reduce CO₂ emissions by 218.47 kg and natural gas consumption by 82.07 kg per month for every 100 m² of space during the cold seasons. In contrast, during the hot seasons, while indoor temperatures in most spaces exceeded outdoor temperatures, they remained within the acceptable range of human thermal comfort.
Silver Nanoparticles in Antifungal Applications: A Comparison of Biosynthesized and Physical Synthesized Nanoparticles on Paper-Biodegrading Fungi
Authors: Kheiri Akram , Mohammadi Parisa , Ghadam Parinaz
Published: February 2025

Background: Paper substrates are highly susceptible to fungal degradation, as fungi produce enzymes that decompose paper materials. This study investigates and compares the antifungal efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized through various physical and biological methods. The fungal strains tested, Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus sp., were isolated from paper samples in a previous study, chosen for their more prevalence in contaminated paper. Methods: Five types of AgNPs, synthesized using both biological and physical methods, were evaluated. The biological methods involved the use of extracts from Juglans regia green husk, Malva sylvestris leaves, and cyanobacterial cells. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of the AgNPs were determined using standard protocols. Results: The MIC values of the AgNPs synthesized from different sources exhibited varying degrees of antifungal activity against the tested fungi. The AgNPs’ effectiveness ranked as follows: (1) AgNPs produced by Nostoc pruniforme, (2) AgNPs produced by M. sylvestris, (3) AgNPs produced by Nostoc IBRC-M5064, (4) AgNPs produced by J. regia, and (5) physically synthesized AgNPs. Conclusion: These findings highlight the potential of biologically synthesized AgNPs as environmentally friendly biocidal agents for preventing and controlling paper biodegradation.
Reduction and Health Risk Assessment of Imidacloprid Insecticide Residues in Grapes Using Home Washing Methods
Authors: Shayanrad Parvaneh , Hassanzadeh Nasrin
Published: February 2025

Background: Grapes are one of the most important agricultural products in Malayer, and the pest Psalmocharias alhageos affects them. Imidacloprid, a systemic neonicotinoid insecticide, is commonly used to control pests. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of non-toxic household methods in reducing imidacloprid residues on grapes. Methods: The grape samples were collected from five different vineyards and immersed in various solutions (acetic acid, sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, detergents, and tap water). The QuEChERS method was used for pesticide residue extraction. Results: Washing treatments significantly reduced pesticide residues in the grapes. The reduction in imidacloprid residues varied, with sodium bicarbonate showing the highest reduction (50.41%), followed by acetic acid (30.03%), detergent (9.44%), sodium chloride (8.81%), and tap water (3.45%). The processing factors (PFs) after washing with these solutions were all less than 1, indicating that all treatments were effective in reducing imidacloprid residues. Conclusion: Imidacloprid residues were detected in all grape samples from the five vineyards. However, the imidacloprid concentrations after washing were below the CODEX maximum residue limit (MRL) (0.7 mg/kg). Health risk assessments indicated that consumers are not exposed to significant health risks from imidacloprid residues in grapes, with no serious side effects observed for adults, adolescents, or children.
Enhancing Wastewater Treatment Efficiency Using MBBR: A Media Selection Approach
Authors: Shamsabadizadeh Mehdi , Mehrdadi Nasser , Baghvand Akbar
Published: February 2025

Background: Wastewater treatment is a critical environmental challenge, and moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) technology is an effective solution. The selection of appropriate biofilm media significantly impacts treatment efficiency, particularly in terms of organic matter and nutrient removal. This study aims to optimize media selection for MBBR systems to improve wastewater treatment. Methods: Three biofilm media types-K3, MB3, and K5-were evaluated based on key properties such as specific surface area (SSA), porosity, buoyancy, and economic feasibility. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was employed to assess and prioritize these criteria. Expert Choice software facilitated the analysis, followed by a laboratory-scale investigation to assess pollutant removal efficiency. Results: K5 media outperformed K3 and MB3 in terms of nitrogen removal (90%), chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction (90%), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) elimination (95%), and TSS removal (89%). K5 also demonstrated superior efficiency in pollutant removal while maintaining consistent pH regulation. K3 and MB3 displayed relatively lower performance, especially in nitrogen and COD removal. Conclusion: The study confirms that K5 media, selected using the AHP method, provides the highest treatment efficiency in MBBR systems. The AHP-based media selection process enhances the decision-making process, ensuring that economic and performance factors are adequately considered. Future studies should focus on scaling up the MBBR system with K5 media to further evaluate its long-term performance in real-world conditions.
Occurrence and Assessment of Human Exposure to Microplastic Particles in Bottled Water From Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Shokunbi Oluwatosin Sarah , Akinbile Ebunoluwa Elizabeth , Jegede David Olaoluwa , Oyedele Oluwawapelumi Adejoke , Shokunbi Olutayo Sunday
Published: February 2025

Background: The investigation of microplastics (MPs) in different environmental media is well documented; however, the prevalence and possible human health risks of MPs in bottled water are not fully understood. Methods: This study was designed to (a) determine the quantity, form, color, and size of MPs, (b) evaluate the influence of physicochemical properties on the release of MPs in bottled water, and (c) estimate the daily intake (EDI) of MPs in eight distinct varieties of bottled water from Southwest Nigeria. The Rose Bengal staining method and microscopic analysis were employed to identify, quantify, and characterize the MPs. Results: The bottled water brands from Southwest Nigeria contained MPs of various shapes, colors, and sizes. The average abundance of MPs was 15.2±2.9 particles/L, with the highest abundance being 21.3±1.8 particles/L. Fibers (82%) were the most detected shape of MPs, followed by fragments (18%), with transparent and blue being the two colors observed. Particle sizes ranged from 0.2 to 2.5 mm. The concentrations of MPs in the bottled water were strongly correlated (r=0.789, P<0.01) with the pH of the water samples. Adults had an estimated EDI of 0.31 to 0.66 particles/kg bw/day, while children’s EDI ranged from 1.13 to 2.36 particles/kg bw/day. Conclusion: These findings provide insights for scientists to better understand the contamination of bottled water by MPs and help regulatory bodies formulate appropriate regulations for the production and bottling of drinking water.
Reading Experience of Russian Memoirists of the Second Half of the 18th – Early 19th Centuries as a Determining Factor in Creating the Text of Memories
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Pedagogical University (Novosibirsk, Russian Federation), Farafonova O.A.
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to a systematic analysis of all currently known and published Russian memoir texts of the second half of the 18th - early 19th centuries. from the point of view of identifying and describing the reading repertoire of the authors of memoirs. The works of memoirists act both as sources and as research material. A conclusion is drawn about the specifics of the formation and characteristic features of the reading circle of the second half of the 18th - early 19th centuries. The reading range of memoirists is of interest as a determining condition for creating the text of memoirs and guides the author of memoirs in choosing the style, manner and structure of the narrative, understanding the causes and consequences of events, and revealing character. “Having become a reader,” Russian person of the 18th century. gains access to a wide range of ways of understanding, models and languages for describing both the life of society and the state, as well as private life and personal history. The experience of reading gives the author of memoirs the opportunity to choose a genre tradition in the context of which he comprehends himself and his life, develops the logic of selecting events and the way of presenting them, and chooses the style and manner of narration.
Ways to Depict Character in Works of M. Zoshchenko of the 1930s
Authors:   the Institute of Literature of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Pushkin House), St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, Kolesnikova E.I.
Published: February 2025

The article considers the methods of depicting characters in the stories of M. M. Zoshchenko "Retribution", "Inglourious End" and "Before Sunrise". The typology of personality during its formation and self-realization is analyzed. The estimated role of naming the heroine of the story "Retribution" is revealed. Cinderella's plot archetype correlates with the Soviet ideology "a new person". As a detail of the portrait characteristic, the naming of the heroine "Retribution" is considered. The role of block allusions and quotes from verses by A. Block present in all the texts under consideration is analyzed. The role of references to the musical background of the early century era (romances and songs of the early twentieth century) is shown to characterize the nobility as an endangered class. The essay "Inglourious End" reveals a typological resemblance to Blok's essay "The Last Days of Imperial Power". It is concluded that the Blok intertext expands the semantic potential of the works, clarify the author's position of Zoshchenko. In addition, subtext currents help the writer give a voluminous picture of Soviet society during the 1930s.
History of Perception of G. N. Vladimov's Novel "Three Minutes of Silence"
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State University of Industrial Technologies and Design (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation), Koznova N.N. , Safronova S.S. ,   Saint-Petersburg State University (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation)
Published: February 2025

The article attempts to explicate the hybrid character of G. N. Vladimov’s novel "Three Minutes of Silence" on the basis of the analysis of the literary-critical reception recorded in the "Chronicle of Reviews" for 1970-1972. The reconstruction of the logic of the ideological, cultural and publishing policy of the regime of those years reveals the heterogeneity of public consciousness even in the official space of literature. The variability of the allowable topics predetermined the «ambivalent» strategy of the official writers, which allows in their works a partial deviation from the prescribed ideology, but does not imply a complete rejection of it. The policy of the Soviet periodicals was based on the similar ambivalence represented by the ideological opposition of the "conservative" and "liberal" wing. The existentialist genesis of the novel "Three Minutes of Silence" was noted by critics of that time, which made it possible to substantiate the conclusion that G. N. Vladimov’s novel combines the characteristics of a “Soviet” and “dissident” text.
Reception of Soviet Vozhdism in Russian Prose of the Second Half of the Twentieth Century (Yuz Aleshkovsky, A. Solzhenitsyn, D. Andreev)
Authors:   the Romodanovo Secondary School (Saransk, Russian Federation), Maksinyaev R.I.
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to analyzing the reception of the image of the leader in the novels of Yuz Aleshkovsky ("Kangaroo"), A. I. Solzhenitsyn ("In the Circle of the First"), and D. Andreev ("The Rose of the World") as in three different narrative modus operandi - phantasmagoric, realistic, and metahistorical, respectively. The aim of the study is to identify the specifics of the reception of the phenomenon of vozhdizm as the most important aspect of the theme of power and power structures and the comprehension of the period of Stalin's reign. The author applies comparative-historical, socio-cultural methods, as well as the method of holistic analysis of the artwork. It is established, firstly, that while Solzhenitsyn's image of Stalin is as down-to-earth as possible (the leader is portrayed not paradoxically, but as a lonely old man with his fears and concerns). Andreev's images of the leaders are presented through their bodily otherness, as a mockery of the atheistic views and agitations of Marxism-Leninism, which becomes a way of comprehending the absurd reality, the discrepancy between the public and the backstage, the theatrical and the existential. Secondly, Yuz Aleshkovsky, addressing the theme of vozhdism, desacralizes the main sovietological mythologemes: the sacredness of the leader's body, his superhuman qualities with the help of conceptualism, as well as grotesque and absurd techniques. The writer reproduces the archetype of the grotesque-cosmic body of the leader as an extended allegorical technique of desacralization of Stalin's regime. Finally, in "Kangaroo" by Yuz Aleshkovsky, Stalin is depicted through an exaggerated image of a grotesque body.
Mask as a Technique of Auto-interpretation in A. Kabakov's Novel "The Last Hero"
Authors:   National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University (Saransk, Russian Federation), Osmukhina O.Yu. , Kadeeva R.A. ,   National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University (Saransk, Russian Federation)
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to the analysis of A. A. Kabakov's novel "The Last Hero". A. Kabakov's novel in the aspect of the correlation between the author and the hero. The research is undertaken to reveal the functions of the author's mask as an auto-interpretation in the novel space. The authors apply comparative-historical, socio-cultural methods, as well as the method of holistic analysis of the artwork. It is established, firstly, that the technique of the author's mask becomes a means of self-identification of the author of the real within the textual space: Kabakov consciously erases the boundaries between the author "real" and the hero-mask - the writer "dissects" himself and his character in the process of multi-stage self-reflection, demonstrating the "underside" of the creative process. Secondly, the author "real" deliberately makes his text a field of literary play and creative experiment, appearing in the novel simultaneously in several hypostases: in the role of the author and in the role of the character, split in turn into several separately existing personalities-masks. Thirdly, the intertwining of the speech of the author, the narrator and the hero generates the permeability of the boundaries of the author's consciousness and the consciousness of the character, emphasizing the appearance of their delimitation in the text of the novel. Therefore, the subject of the image is the author's reflection on the fate of the artist himself.
The Cult of the "Invincible Sun" and the Concept of Carlos Castaneda as Elements of the Secondary Reality of Victor Pelevin's Novel "The Invincible Sun"
Authors:   Secondary School No. 57, Bryansk, Russian Federation, Lubarsky R.V.
Published: February 2025

The secondary artistic convention in the literature of postmodernism is reproduced using unrealistic artistic means. One of these tools is a myth. Since most of Victor Pelevin's works create a postmodern space based on the author's transformation of the mythological vision of the world of various peoples ("Batman Apollo", "Empire V", "Transhumanism Inc.", etc.), the author tends to depict a mythological secondary artistic convention. This article is devoted to the study of the occult and mythological secondary reality of the novel "The Invincible Sun". The article examines the specifics of the author's understanding of the cult of Sol Invictus and the mythical features of the cult object - the black stone. The ideological and mythological originality of the cult of the "Invincible Sun" ("Sol Invictus") as artistic models of the author's vision of the world surrounding the characters is considered. The interpretation of Castaneda's ideas in combination with the solar cult is investigated. It is concluded that occult-mythical components combine Castaneda`s shamanism and solar cult into a syncretic postmodern art space.
Pragmatics of Code-Switching in Memes With Different Degrees of Creolization
Authors:   Cherepovets State University, Cherepovets, Russian Federation, Chirsheva G.N. , Emelyanova A.S. ,   Cherepovets State University, Cherepovets, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

Within the framework of Internet communication, a new element representing a creolized text - an Internet meme - is increasingly attracting attention. The Internet meme is interesting for linguistics because it is a polycode formation: the combination of verbal and non-verbal components within one text increases the intensity of its pragmatic and semantic functions. An Internet meme can convey content using a minimal amount of linguistic and visual means. Code-switching on Internet communication is certainly an intriguing phenomenon under-researched in texts of different types and formats. The aim of the paper is to identify the pragmatic functions of code-switching in Russian memes functioning in the Vkontakte social network. The novelty of this work is that the study of pragmatic functions of code-switching in memes as specific creolized texts from social networks has not been considered. The research methodology includes both qualitative (pragmatic, contextual and cultural-linguistic analysis) and quantitative methods (descriptive statistics). The data for the study are 158 code-switches, which fulfill four main pragmatic functions: nominative, emotive, addressee-oriented, and that of a language game. The results of the study prove that code-switching in memes is most often used for language game. The identified types of creolization of memes as a polycode text show that the most frequent in the Internet space is a complex polycode meme with code-switching, while media-centric polycode texts with code-switching are not represented in the sample.
Bilingualism in the Theory of Text Linguistics
Authors:   Pushkin Leningrad State University, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation), Denisova E.A.
Published: February 2025

This article provides a theoretical overview of the bilingualism phenomenon in the theory of text linguistics along with the equivalent terms bilingualism / multilingualism / duality of languages / polylingualism. Based on the material of the main provisions of the theory of language contacts, contact linguistics, contact-literary studies and contact variantology of text linguistics, the essence of one of the relevant issues is revealed. Bilingualism is considered as a linguistic phenomenon expressed by various foreign language components in the structure of a bilingual text and forming the construct of the canvas of the storyline. Linguistic variability performs a textual function, the nature of which is to materialize languages in the form of speech and writing, to organize coherent segments of speech determined pragmatically. The bi-lingual content of a literary text, the peculiarities of its construction, the attitude of the writer to the described cultures reflect the speech-creating function of a bi-lingual writer, and the use of two or more languages is more the norm than the exception.
Metamodern "Hieroglyphic" Novel "With a Key" ("ZIL Rejuvenator for Storing Food in Timelessness" by Vitaly Zakhartsov)
Authors:   Moscow Pedagogical State University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Merkushov S.F.
Published: February 2025

Vitaly Zakhartsov’s first novel «ZIL rejuvenator for storing food in timelessness» (2022) is not easy for readers to perceive due to its general avant-garde solution combining intertextual / intermediate / transmedia principles associated with genre-generic diffusion, ritual-gaming, performance, participatory modality, bringing textual, linguistic and receptive attribution to the meta level. At the same time, narratology, which is too diverse at first glance, does not indicate the disintegration of an utterance, and even more so does not serve its internal destruction, but on the contrary, “works” to create semantic and lexical super-integrity. Therefore, it is advisable to consider the work in a metamodern perspective, on the one hand, excluding the destructive intentions of postmodernism, and on the other hand, through symbolic meanings and forms referring to hieroglyphics and special novelistic practices, returning to the original, original domestic modernist tradesmen.
The Motif of "Werewolf" in the Ballads "The Gypsy Song" by J. V. Goethe and "Wolves" by A. K. Tolstoy
Authors:   Kaluga State University n.а. K.E.Tsiolkovsky (Kaluga, Russian Federation), Korbankova D.S.
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to the analysis of the specifics of the representation of the thanatological motifs in the A. K. Tolstoy’s ballad "Wolves" and I. V. Goethe’s "Gypsy Song". The presence of A. K. Tolstoy's literary contacts with the representatives of the German culture suggests an influence on the poet's poetic work at the ideological-thematic, plot, character, genre, latent-semantic and spatial-temporal levels. The hypothesis is put forward about the tendency in the writer's appeal to the thanatological motifs and images, both original and culturally and historically conditioned. The main purpose of the article is to analyze the specifics of the representation of thanatological motifs in the ballad work of A. K. Tolstoy from the perspective of the literary contact connections and typological cohesions in order to detect the interaction and mutual influence of literature. Special attention is paid to the consideration of the motif of "werewolf". The novelty of the study lies in the fact that the ballads "Wolves" by A. K. Tolstoy and "Gypsy Song" by I. V. Goethe have never been considered in this context before.
The Discourse of Power and the Power of Discourse in Isaac Asimov’s Foundation: Seldon’s Trial
Authors: Simó Ferenc Zoltán
Published: February 2025

Isaac Asimov is the father of the Three Laws of Robotics and the author of the Foundation
sci-fi series. This study will analyze Dr. Seldon’s trial in Part I of Foundation, which marks the
inception of the disciplinization of psychohistory. This analysis will focus on the trial as an
“event” in the sense Michel Foucault uses the term, to highlight how discursive power(s) is (are)
exercised in the disguise of “legal procedure,” that is, what kind of rhetorical maneuvers are performed by the authorities (i.e., the Commission of Public Safety, the psychohistorians and
the encyclopedists of the Encyclopedia Galactica) to simultaneously condemn and legitimize
psychohistory.
Third party funding: fiend or friend
Authors: Simó Ferenc Zoltán
Published: February 2025

The third party funding rooted in common law - which permits that a third party finances the
expenditures of the litigant - offers resolution to this dilemma consistent with the
requirements of the market economy. These days one can realize that TPF is gaining more
and more significance, even in civil law countries; even though its normative regulation has not
yet been established or at least, it is being formed. Thus, TPF agreements are concluded with
no (or insignificant) regulations and control across Europe, which might give way to abuse and
application of unfair/unjust terms for litigation financiers/investors.
What Samsung teaches us about antifragility in the AI era
Authors: Sultanova Malokhat
Published: February 2025

The paper integrates an in-depth analysis of one of the leading technology companies
Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. through the financial performance and marketing strategies to
illustrate how antifragile Samsung as a business organization is in the fast-changing AI era.
In order to evaluate the current financial performance of the company, the vertical and
horizontal analyses are conducted, which illustrate liquidity, solvency and profitability ratios
over the period 2022-2023. Moreover, SWOT analysis demonstrates internal and external views
of the company in the AI-driven period. The analysis of Ans-off matrix is conducted to evaluate
the growth strategies and risk management, while the BCG matrix estimates the resource
allocation within product lines.
Despite the high equity performance, Samsung faces declines in profitability, liquidity and
increases in manufacturing costs. The company's marketing strategies effectively applies market
segmentation, targeting and positioning, relying on a diverse range of products and a brand
focused on innovation and accessibility. The main challenges are product innovation and market
leadership, while the weaknesses are declines in mobile phone sales and increased competition.
Notwithstanding Samsung faces challenges, the company illustrates adaptability and antifragility
through consistent innovations and adjustments strategies to be a leader in the changing
markets. The paper suggests recommendations to strengthen its business stability and
maintaining its competitive edge in the evolving tech industry.