bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IDENTIFICATION BY SSR AND SRAP MARKERS AND HETEROSIS ANALYSIS OF F1 HYBRIDS (Medicago ruthenica L.)
Authors: YANG Yanting , GU Rui , DONG Jiaqi , ZHANG Yutong , SHİ Fengling , TANG Fang
Published: December 2021

Medicago ruthenica L. could be used as the crossbreeding material in forage crops to provide rich resistance gene resources based on its strong resistance to adversity stress. This study aimed to identify the authenticity and analyze heterosis of the intraspecific hybrids acquired from two Medicago ruthenica L. materials. The results showed 85 true hybrids in 118 F1 progenies identified by one SSR marker and five SRAP markers. Besides, the SRAP markers (13.89%) indicated higher identification efficiency than SSR markers (7.69%), and the rate of true hybrids in HZ population (100%) was higher than that in ZH population (36.54%). The six agronomic traits varied to different degrees, and their variation coefficients ranged from 18.53% to 45.72% in 13 hybrids of ZH population in 2019 and 2020. Moreover, ZH7 and ZH8 presented excellent agronomic performance, which could be used as candidate materials for further research. The mid-parent heterosis (Hm) of all agronomic traits was between -20.55% and 36.46%, and heterobeltiosis (Hh) showed negative values of 13 hybrids.
Взаимоотношения между технологией и культурой: эстетический и культурологический аспекты
Authors:   Всероссийский государственный институт кинематографии имени С. А. Герасимова, Хренов Н.А.
Published: December 2021

Данная статья посвящена истории возникновения разных средств медиа, смысл которой приоткрывается лишь в наше время, когда появляются постсовременные средства медиа в виде интернета. Автор предлагает рассматривать поздние средства медиа, а именно, фотографию, кинематограф, телевидение и т.д. не только как виды искусства, а именно так они до сих пор изучались, и не только как самостоятельные эстетические феномены, а как последовательно возникающие формы единого гештальта, под которым следует подразумевать виртуальную реальность. С этой точки зрения историю медиа можно представлять как состоящую из таких фаз процесса виртуализации, как фотографическая, кинематографическая, телевизионная и т.д. фазы. Процесс виртуализации уходит глубоко в историю, когда возникает язык, письменность и книгопечатание. Основное внимание в статье уделяется тем средствам медиа, которые начались с возникновения в ХIХ веке фотографии, что стало важной вехой в возникновении знаковых систем уже не в вербальных, а в визуальных формах. В связи с этим автор доказывает, что изучение виртуальной реальности предполагает использование семиотического подхода. Обращаясь к известному в философии техники принципу органопроекции, автор однако приходит к выводу, что телесные формы органопроекции необходимо дополнить духовными, что требует уже философского и эстетического подходов. В связи с этим автор обращается к феноменологии Гегеля, в которой принцип проекции внутреннего на внешнее, предметно-чувственное, в чем заключается смысл гегелевского принципа, предполагает овнешнение уже не телесного, а духовного начала. Как доказывает автор, для эстетического освоения технологий гегелевский принцип является наиболее эффективным. Правда, Гегель не прибегал к понятию «проекция». Этот механизм овнешнения он обозначал как опредмечивание. Последующее обращение к этому понятию привело к выявлению оборотной стороны принципа опредмечивания, связанного с феноменом отчуждения. По мнению автора, более глубокое осмысление развертывающегося с ХIХ века процесса виртуализации неизбежно подводит к необходимости рассматривать медиа в ракурсе отчуждения, что является оборотной стороной их функционирования.
Methodological Problems of Measuring Values and Value-Oriented Human Behavior
Authors: Kiselnikova N.V.
Published: December 2021

Objectives. To review studies and consider the advantages and limitations of the current scientific practices for measuring values and value-associated behavior.
Background. The methodological problems of measuring values and a value-oriented value-associated behavior reflect a number of difficult questions relevant for modern psychology: 1) the possibility of constructing predictive models of human behavior based on self-report data (survey methods); 2) problems with replication; 3) the use of mathematical tools for data analysis that are adequate to the specifics of the subject of social research. Key contradictions in research on values are connected with the topic of the conditions in which values influence behavior. Another important question is about the suitability of the survey method and, in particular, the ranking for measuring values, taking into account the likelihood that they are nontransitive, poorly aware and context-dependent. Russian-speaking readers are familiar with a very limited set of studies and translated methodological tools nowadays. It makes difficult to study values, taking into account the latest data on the theoretical validity of value models and value-associated behavior and on the reliability and validity of the corresponding diagnostic instruments.
Methodology. The paper is a scientific review which includes a comparative analysis of the advantages and limitations of the current scientific practices for measuring values and value-associated behavior.
Conclusions. It is shown that the currently widespread questionnaires for the measurement of values are based on the theoretical models, not all of which find empirical confirmation of suitability for use. Sh. Schwartz’s Survey is characterized by fairly good validity and reliability, including cross-cultural validity, but it has drawbacks common to all self-reporting survey methods. In particular, it does not allow to confidently predict the manifestation of the values in behavior. Supplementing survey data with self-reports on behavior, or reconstruction of past experience gives a slightly more complete picture, however such studies are performed in a correlation design, and therefore they do not allow one to draw causal conclusions and build reliable predictive models. The prospect for the study of values is the construction of complex models which include personal and situational variables, and the development of research procedures that measure values both in everyday life situations and in a complex multicultural context. Progress in this area will be impossible without a methodological reflection of the properties of values — transitivity, degree of awareness, universality/specificity. These are ideas which underlie the design features of research procedures and the choice of a data analysis method.
Researches on Social Capital in a Multicultural Society: Theoretical and Methodological Problems and Key Results
Authors: Tatarko A.N.
Published: December 2021

Objective. Review a key theoretical developments of the concept of social capital, review of socio-psychological approaches to the nature of social capital, and discuss the problem of social capital in a multicultural society based on existing research. Background. Despite of a large number of empirical studies, there are currently no common views on the structure of social capital, as well as generally accepted methods for measuring it. The phenomenology of social capital is considered at three levels: macro-, meso -, and micro-level. The article considers not only various theoretical approaches to the phenomenon of social capital, but also the advantages of having this socio-psychological resource by society. Special attention is paid to the review of research on social capital in a multicultural society. The article discusses the influence of ethnic diversity of society on its social capital, as well as the influence of various aspects of integration immigration policy on the social capital of society, which is of particular interest and relevance for multicultural Russia. Methodology. Systemic approach, comparative analysis method. Conclusions. The concept of social capital remains rather “umbrella”, combining a set of a number of phenomena that satisfy certain characteristics. Indicators of social capital at the group level and at the individual level are different. Social capital in a multicultural society is one of the resources for mutual adaptation of ethnic groups. Concerning the relation between ethnic diversity and social capital, although most foreign studies indicate a decrease in social capital in the context of ethnic diversity, we did not find this in Russia. The relationship of ethnic diversity to social capital depends strongly on the context.
The Study of the Narrative Identity of Russian and Chinese Students
Authors: Suvorova I.Y. , Glebov V.V. , Wang H.
Published: December 2021

Objective. The article is devoted to the analysis of the narrative identity of Chinese and Russian students. It was assumed that the reflection of the socio-political situation is more obvious and manifests itself in the main themes and attitudes, reflecting both the content side of the narrative and its structure, while the identification of cultural influence requires additional analysis.
Background. Cross-cultural studies point to the need to analyze the narrative at the individual, political, social, economic and cultural level. In theory, each of the levels has its own influence on the structure and content of the narrative. Nevertheless, there is an extremely small amount of practical data on the comparison of various types of analysis and the peculiarities of their manifestation in narrative.
Study design. The article analyzed the features in the presentation of fragments of biography, the manner of presenting information and mentioning the main topics of the citizens of countries with a different socio-political system.
Participants. The sample consisted of 80 people: 35 narratives of students from the PRC (19 male and 16 females from 19 to 26 years old) and 45 narratives of students from the Russian Federation (PFUR) (17 male and 28 females from 20 to 23 years old). All participants were born between 1997 and 2000.
Measurements. The article used the analysis of narrative identity of K. McLean and D. McAdams both as a theory and as research method. Statistical analysis included the calculation of differences between the two samples (Mann-Whitney U test) and hierarchical cluster analysis.
Results. The narratives of Russian and Chinese students reflect inconsistency and a high degree of uncertainty of the socio-political situation in Russia, as well as great social pressure and high competition in China.
Conclusions. The structure of narrative identity primarily reflects the socio-political situation as related to the direct experience of students. Cultural experience affects more fundamental personality constructs and is not read in ordinary narrative analysis.
Cross-Cultural Differences in Love Attitudes of Belarusians and Chinese
Authors: Fourmanov I.A.
Published: December 2021

Objectives. Study of cross-cultural differences in love attitudes of Belarusians and Chinese.
Background. A large number of cross-cultural studies focus on comparing the psychological characteristics of representatives of two polar cultures — individualistic and collectivist. At the same time, little attention is paid to the study and explanation of the differences within each of these cultures. Although it is quite obvious that countries belonging to the same culture may differ significantly due to their cultural-specific features, traditions, state structure, and religions. In this regard, the study was aimed at identifying differences in such a cultural universal as love, namely, in the love attitudes of Belarusians and Chinese, who are representatives of collectivist culture.
Study design. The study was conducted using a survey method. For data processing and analysis, descriptive statistics and Student t-test were used.
Participants. The respondents were 1344 people, representatives of the Belarusian (men, N=544; women, N=560) and Chinese (men, N=120; women, N=120) samples, aged 17-30 years.
Measurements. Love Attitudes Scale by C. Hendrik, S. Hendrik.
Results. Chinese men differ from Belarusian men with higher scores of attitudes Agape, Pragma, Mania, Storge and Ludus. Belarusian women differ from Chinese women with higher Eros attitudes. In turn, Chinese women in comparison with Belarus, have higher rates of Pragma, Storge, and Ludus. At¬titudes Eros and Agape occupy the top position in the hierarchy of love attitudes of Belarusian men and women, and attitudes Agape and Pragma — in Chinese. Ludus, regardless of gender and nationality, has the least power.
Conclusions. The results of the study contribute to the understanding of differences in love styles depending on belonging to Western and Eastern collectivist subcultures.
To the 100th Anniversary of Lev Ilyich Umansky. Kostroma Social-Psychological Scientific School: Traditions and Development Trends
Authors: Kryukova T.L. , Samokhvalova A.G.
Published: December 2021

October 29th, 2021 marks the 100th anniversary since the birth of Lev Ilyich Umansky (1921— 1983), a Soviet scientist, social psychologist, mental teacher and a leader who left behind a scientific school of social psychology in Kursk and Kostroma in the 60—80s XX century. The article examines the stage of formation of the scientific social psychology school in Kostroma, associated, first of all, with the activities of the famous researcher L.I. Umansky. The main directions of scientific research of Kostroma psychologists in the XX century, as well as the current state of the scientific psychological school, chang¬ing in connection with the new challenges of our time, are shown.
The Right to Choose Non-Law: How to Open Pandora’s Box with Lex Voluntatis
Authors: Mazhorina M. V.
Published: December 2021

The autonomy of the will of the parties (lex voluntatis) is one of the central institutions of private international law that, in the context of proliferation of non-legal subject matter, multiplying sources of non-state regulation, and also due to the conceptualization of the institution of “rules of law” in the practice of world arbitrations, acquires a new methodological meaning and requires its rethinking. The paper examines the institution of the autonomy of the will of the parties from different angles: as a principle of conflict of laws, as a substantive law institution, and as a mechanism for legitimizing the norms of non-state regulation. The autonomy of the will of the parties today acquires a visible potential of a legal basis for the construction of a special, possibly “hybrid,” regulatory regime for cross-border private law, for mainly contractual relations, it becomes a form of expression of the right to choose non-law. Interpreting the autonomy of the will through the prism of the substantive law theory and in the context of admitting the choice of non-state regulation as the applicable law can pose a serious risk both for the parties to cross-border agreements and for the law-enforcer in terms of conflicting law and non-law. The author concludes that acknowledgement that the institution of autonomy of the will authorizes the right to choose non-law, in fact, means that a fragmented legal space, which itself differs significantly from state to state, can collide with a rapidly scalable, even more heterogeneous non-state array of norms emanating from non-state actors. This state of the normative superstructure can be characterized as a conflict of law and non-law and requires the development and adjustment of an appropriate methodology of private international law.
Reasons Why Inﬂicting Harm is not a Suﬃcient Indicator of Abuse of the Right
Authors: Musarskiy S. V.
Published: December 2021

One of the most difficult issues of civil law is the determination of the criteria for abuse of rights prohibited by Article 10 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. Among numerous points of view on this issue, the following has become very widespread in judicial practice: an abuse of the right can be established based on the negative consequences that have occurred for third parties as a result of the exercise of the right. Since these consequences are evident, then the exercise of the right constituted an abuse. Substantial support for this approach is provided by the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation opining that the rule of Art. 10 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation is aimed at implementing the principle enshrined in Part 3 of Art. 17 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation. Having studied the origins of this point of view and its legal foundations, the author noted a number of inherent shortcomings. In particular, this point of view does not distinguish between inflicting unacceptable harm and admissible actions causing harm to another person; it does not take into account the competition of legal norms; it does not take into account that causing harm prohibited by law is an offense and, therefore, it is not an act of exercising subjective rights. These and other shortcomings of the concept of causing harm, noted by the author of the paper, lead to the conclusion that the feature of “causing harm” in itself is insufficient to qualify the act as an act of abuse of the right and the application of Art. 10 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. In addition to the indicated feature, which is a prerequisite for the application of Art. 10 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, the court must establish another (key) factor, namely: the fact that, in its opinion, allows to distinguish between legal abuse and other lawful and unlawful phenomena.
Crohn’s Disease and Membranous Glomerulonephritis Case Report
Authors: HÜZMELİ Can , GÜLLÜ Murat , ÖZTÜRK Kazım , CANIM Yılmaz , KILINÇ Yasin , YILMAZ İbrahim
Published: December 2021

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are two different types of chronic noninfectious gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases, namely Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis. Renal involvement exists among the extraintestinal involvements of IBD. IBD renal involvements are in the form of glomerulonephritis, tubulointerstitial nephritis, nephrolithiasis, and renal amyloidosis. In this article, a 79-year-old male patient who presented with nephrotic proteinuria was diagnosed with membranous glomerulonephritis by renal biopsy. In addition, this article aims to discuss the patient who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in intestinal biopsy taken with colonoscopy while also referring to relative literature.
Bir Tıp Fakültesi Öğrencilerinin Yaşlı Ayrımcılığına İlişkin Tutumlarının Belirlenmesi
Authors: KARABEKİROĞLU Büşra , KUŞ Celal , GÜMÜŞTAKIM Raziye
Published: December 2021

Amaç: Bu araştırma tıp fakültesi öğrencilerinin yaşlı ayrımcılığına ilişkin tutumlarını ve bu tutumlarının sosyodemografik değişkenlerle ilişkisini belirlemek amacıyla yapılmıştır.

Gereç ve Yöntem: Tanımlayıcı ve kesitsel tipteki bu çalışmanın evrenini, 2019-2020 eğitim-öğrenim dönemi Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi öğrencileri oluşturmaktadır. Çalışmaya 224 tıp fakültesi öğrencisi katılmıştır. Araştırmacı tarafından geliştirilen 22 soruluk anket ve Yaşlı Ayrımcılığı Tutum Ölçeği (YATÖ) gönüllü hekim adaylarına yüz yüze ya da internet aracılığıyla uygulanmıştır.

Bulgular:Öğrencilerin YATÖ toplam puan ortalaması 68.28±7.54 olarak bulundu. YATÖ toplam puan ve alt boyut puanları ile en uzun süre yaşanılan yer, anne eğitim düzeyi, yaşlı bireyle yaşama öyküsü, ileride ebeveynle yaşama isteği, yaşlı bireylere sağlık hizmeti sunma isteği, yaşlı hastalar ve hastalıkları hakkında eğitim alma durumları arasında anlamlı fark bulunmuştur (p
The Prediction of the Isoelectric Point Value of Peptides and Proteins with a Wide Range of Chemical Modifications
Authors: Skvortsov V.S. , Voronina A.I. , Ivanova Y.O. , Rybina A.V.
Published: December 2021

The scale of virtual pKa values for calculating the isoelectric point of peptides and proteins with chemical and post-translational modifications (PTM) is presented. The learning set of pKa values is based on data from 25 experiments of isoelectric focusing of peptides with subsequent mass spectrometric identification (ProteomeXchange accession codes: PXD000065, PXD005410, PXD006291, PXD010006 and PXD017201). In order to enrich the resulting sets with peptides containing modifications the identification of peptides was repeated using raw mass spectrometry data of all datasets. In the final learning set have included peptides satisfying the following conditions: the peptide was found in the fraction with scoring function maximum and maximum peptide abundance; the peptide was found in more than one experiment, and differences of the pI value between experiments was less than 0.15 pH unit. Two variants of the scales were created. In the first variant, pKa values depended only on the residue position relative to the ends of the sequence (N- or C-terminal residue or inside the chain). In the second variant, the effect of neighboring residues was also taken into account. The prediction accuracy of the second variant was higher. The comparison with other methods of pI prediction was carried out. Although the scale was calculated from set containing only peptides, it would be applicable for pI prediction of proteins with and without PTM. The software for prediction of pI values using the resulting pKa scales is available at http://pIPredict3.ibmc.msk.ru.
The Ecological Theology of the Indonesian Gayo Tribe: The Integration of Tawhīd Values into their Trade Tradition
Authors: Sukiman Sukiman
Published: December 2021

This study analyzes the process of integration of tawhīd  (believing in one God) values with trade tradition among the Gayo tribe, which helped to improve their economy and create a more prosperous way of life. This tribe is domiciled in the central region of Aceh, whose origins are Old Malays, and they have lived for a long time in the highlands of Gayo. Thus, they were involved in typical economic activities such as farming, gardening, fishing,  rearing of livestock, as well as household businesses and tourism, which were carried out systemically and periodically by the government and jointly supervised by agricultural experts. However, every work carried out had monotheism values with an emphasis on faith and worship because all natural resources were believed to be owned by Allah SWT. This study uses a qualitative approach in which the data collected were in the form of words, images, and not numbers. Results revealed that by capitalizing on faith and piety, the Gayo tribe believes that they can achieve happiness and blessings like the people of Gayo Land who strictly practice Islam in their daily lives and have a blessed, prosperous and dignified life from God.
Santri Perception to Islamic Bank: Are there no Differences with Conventional Banks?
Authors: Hadziq M. Fuad , Mardoni Yosi , Anam Moh. Khoirul
Published: December 2021

Several studies show no difference in practice and academics in general between Islamic banks and conventional banks. However, they are both very different. This research analysed the perceptions of santri/students of Islamic boarding schools regarding no differences between Islamic banks and conventional banks. This research was quantitative with an in-depth descriptive analysis. The research sample used a blend of purposive and judgment techniques applied to santri from several large Islamic boarding schools in Banyuwangi. The analytical method used a two-way causative relationship using multiple regression. The research used a structured questionnaire with a Likert scale and in-depth interviews with santri. Santri's view of Islamic banks differed from that of regular banks. Santri strongly believes in Islamic banking, while the majority is not traditional but represents Islamic ideals. Islamic bank workers, nevertheless, have shown Islam's greater identity than standard banks and imply that no disparities in Islamic banks are shown to be stigmatic.
Pengaruh Tingkat Keseriusan Pelanggaran, Reporting Channel, dan Retaliasi Terhadap Niat Melakukan Whistleblowing
Authors: Nurhalizah Karinna Heydy , Saud Ilham Maulana
Published: December 2021

Latar Belakang:Saat ini telah banyak terjadi kecurangan seperti korupsi, pemalsuan laporan keuangan, suap menyuap, dan lain sebagainya. Adanya kasus kecurangan ini menimbulkan banyak kerugian. Oleh sebab itu maka dibutuhkan suatu kebijakan untuk mencegah maupun mengungkap adanya kecurangan salah satunya yaitu dengan menerapkan kebijakan whistleblowing. Kebijakan whistleblowing sudah diterapkan di berbagai perusahaan seperti perusahaan Telkom, Pertamina, Astra Group, Direktorat Jenderal Pajak, dan lain-lain. Namun untuk melakukan whistleblowing seseorang akan dipengaruhi oleh berbagai faktor seperti tingkat keseriusan pelanggaran, reporting channel, dan retaliasi.Tujuan:Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh tingkat keseriusan pelanggaran (rendah dan tinggi), reporting channels (anonymous reporting channel dan non-anonymous reporting channel), dan retaliasi (rendah dan tinggi) terhadap niat melakukan whistleblowing.Metode Penelitian:Pendekatan pada penelitian ini menggunakan eksperimen 2x2x2 between subjects effects dengan 165 subjek penelitian. Subjek dalam penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa S1 Program Studi Akuntansi Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta. Sampel dalam penelitian ini dipilih menggunakan metode purposive sampling. Alat analisis yang digunakan adalah Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).Hasil Penelitian:Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tingkat keseriusan pelanggaran tidak berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap niat melakukan whistleblowing, adanya anonymous reporting channel lebih efektif untuk meningkatkan niat seseorang melakukan whistleblowing, dan retaliasi rendah lebih efektif untuk meningkatkan niat seseorang melakukan whistleblowing. Dalam kondisi tingkat keseriusan pelanggaran tinggi, anonymous reporting channel, dan retaliasi rendah lebih efektif dalam meningkatkan niat seseorang untuk melaporkan tindakan pelanggaran.Keterbatasan Penelitian:Responden pada penelitian hanya terbatas mahasiswa akuntansi FEB UMY angkatan 2018 di mana mahasiswa belum memahami kondisi sesungguhnya yang terjadi dalam dunia kerja.Keaslian/Novetly Penelitian:Penelitian ini merupakan replikasi dari penelitian terdahulu dengan mengganti variabel financial reward dengan tingkat keseriusan pelanggaran dan mengubah subyek serta lokasi penelitian.
Study on the efficacy of ceftriaxone versus azithromycin for the treatment of uncomplicated enteric fever among the patients admitted in a tertiary level hospital
Authors: Mitra Sougata , Khanam Masuma , Hossain M. Iqbal , Quadir Rukhsana
Published: December 2021

Background: Typhoid fever is a severe debilitating and potentially life threating illness. In Bangladesh, typhoid fever is a round the year problem which sometimes take epidemic proportions. The reasons behind such occurrences are unsafe water supply, defective sewage system and unhygienic food handling practice. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of ceftriaxone and azithromycin in the treatment of uncomplicated enteric fever.Methods: An observational study was conducted at the department of pharmacology in Dhaka medical college, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Data were collected from blood culture positive patients for Salmonella typhi and Salmonella paratyphi, who admitted in the Dhaka medical college and hospital, Dhaka during the period of July 2015 to June 2016. Data was collected by using a structured questioner, face to face interview, physical examination and investigation reports. Patients were hospitalized during the entire treatment period and at admission evaluation was made by history and physical examination in a structured format. Subjects ware asked regarding changes in symptoms and possible adverse effects of the study drugs. All patients were asked to return two weeks after completion of treatment for follow up. Blood culture of Salmonella typhi or Salmonella paratyphi were done in all cases. Total 91 patients were culture positive for either S. typhi or S. paratyphi which were finally studied.Results: During the study period out of 91 patients, 51 were receiving ceftriaxone and 40 were receiving azithromycin. Clinical cure was achieved in 46 patients (90%) of ceftriaxone group and in 31 patients (78%) in the azithromycin group. There were no significant differences of clinical cure between both treatment groups (p>0.05). Mean fever clearance time in ceftriaxone group was 3±1.4 days and was 4±1.6 days for azithromycin group. Difference in fever clearance time was statistically significant (p<0.05). No clinical relapses were detected in any study subject. No major side effects of both drugs occurred in any subject.Conclusions: These results indicated that both ceftriaxone and azithromycin were effective against enteric fever caused by sensitive organisms and multi drug resistant S. typhi and S. paratyphi. It is concluded that ceftriaxone is more effective and can be a convenient alternative for the treatment of enteric fever, especially in developing countries like us where medical resources are scarce.
Potential role of adjuvant micronutrient therapy in the management of respiratory tract infections: a narrative review
Authors: Gaonkar Pratyusha P. , Purohit Vinay
Published: December 2021

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are highly prevalent and variable in nature, and are accountable for considerable morbidity and mortality. Acute respiratory tract infections (ARIs) are the third leading cause of death worldwide and the most common cause of antibiotic prescription among adults. It is common knowledge that inappropriate or overuse of antibiotics for RTIs is a crucial contributing factor with respect to the emergence of microbes that are resistant to the drug’s effects. Overuse of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance is a global issue that is becoming a serious concern. There is a growing need for novel approaches and adjuvant therapies for such infections, particularly in the setting of worsening antibacterial resistance. The strategy of supporting the immune system of the host in advance of infection exposure would decrease the number and severity of infections and thus decrease antibiotic use. Micronutrients have varied roles throughout every stage of the immune system and help in strengthening and maintaining immune function. Deficiencies of micronutrients are associated with varied health outcomes and can impact both innate and adaptive immunity profoundly, causing immunosuppression and thus leading to increased susceptibility to infections. Moreover, in view of the COVID-19 pandemic situation, the factors that help the proper functioning of the immune system have garnered much interest and hence the maintenance of an optimal status of certain micronutrients could be particularly beneficial.
Current criteria for selecting cochlear implant in deaf patients: a review
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: December 2021

Cochlear implantation is indicated in patients with severe to profound hearing loss that cannot be adequately treated by other auditory rehabilitation measures. The definitive indication of cochlear implantation is made on the basis of an extensive interdisciplinary clinical, audiological, radiological, and psychological diagnostic work-up. There are numerous changes are happening in cochlear implant candidacy. These have been associated with concomitant changes in surgical techniques, which enhanced the utility and safety of cochlear implantation. Currently, cochlear implants are approved for individuals with severe to profound unilateral hearing loss rather than previously needed for bilateral profound hearing loss. Studies have begun using the short electrode arrays for shallow insertion in patients with low-frequency residual hearing loss. The advancement in designs of the cochlear implant along with improvements in surgical techniques reduce the complications and result in the safety and efficacy of the cochlear implant which further encourages the use of these devices. This review article aims to discuss the new concepts in the candidacy of the cochlear implant, cochlear implant in younger children and hearing preservation, a cochlear implant for unilateral deafness, bilateral cochlear implant, and cochlear implant with neural plasticity and selection of patients for the cochlear implant.
An increase in cases of complicated chronic otitis media: an indirect impact of COVID pandemic
Authors: Deva Faizah A. L.
Published: December 2021

Background: Chronic otitis media is the most common disease dealt by an otologist, the cases of complication of which are remarkably low. The use of antibiotics and mastoidectomies have resulted in the fall of the fatal complications. COVID-19 pandemic called for restrictions which lead to medical care delay.

Methods: This study was conducted in the department of otolaryngology of GMC and associated hospitals, Jammu from June 2020 and May 2021. The data was retrospectively collected the data from March 2018 to June 2020. The study group included the patients diagnosed with Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) on otoscopy and the patients with complications of CSOM were evaluated for the symptoms of complication, type of complication, bacteriology, treatment and hospital stay.

Results: The 38 (7.5%) patients among these were diagnosed with one or other complication, out of which 29 (76.3%) cases occurred during the COVID pandemic. The extra-cranial complications were more common and young to middle age group was more commonly involved.

Conclusions: COM is a common otological disease, the occurrence of which should not be taken lightly. Without timely and accurate treatment, the complications ensue which are difficult to treat and require expertise.
The role of magnesium supplement in laryngopharyngeal reflux disease
Authors: Gobind Adhira
Published: December 2021

Background: Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) is one of the most prevalent upper gastrointestinal disorder encountered in clinical practice and its optimal treatment is not standardized. The role of magnesium in the human body functions is often underestimated. Since magnesium (Mg) plays a major role in the regulation of smooth muscle contractionby relaxing the pyloric sphincter and enhancing gastric emptying, thereby decreasing the pressure on the LES, it was hypothesized that adding magnesium supplements along with the regular treatment for LPRD, can improve LPRD symptoms. Magnesium has a neutralizing action on the gastric acid and therefore, it may be pertinent to achieve optimal Mg intakes in patients with LPRD.

Methods: This is a prospective study done over a period of 1 year conducted in a tertiary care hospital in central India in patients presenting with LPRD of the age group 18-65 years.  

Results: The study patients were divided into two groups-one treated with esmoprazole 40 mg capsules and alginate syrup and the other with esmoprazole capsules, alginate syrup and magnesium glycinate (250 mg) supplement. Both the groups showed appreciable improvement in their mean reflux symptom index (RSI) and reflux finding score (RFS) at 1 month and 3 months follow-up. Females showed a higher preponderance than males in the disease, symptoms and the mean RSI and RFS score.

Conclusions: Addition of magnesium supplements along with the regular treatment for LPRD, can improve LPRD symptoms and should be considered in the treatment protocol of LPRD.
Clinicopathological study of non-malignant lesions of larynx: a prospective observational study
Authors: N. Shivaram Gautaam , P. Gopakumar K. , M. Suresh Kumar , Krishnan Ragitha Binu
Published: December 2021

Background: Non-malignant lesions of the larynx constitute an interesting array of lesions. The significance of non-malignant lesions lies in the fact that it cannot only cause change in voice but, at times, can lead to breathing difficulty or life-threatening stridor.

Methods: This was a prospective observational study done between November 2019 - July 2020. All the details were filled up by the principal investigator in a structured study proforma. This proforma contains data regarding essential demographic details, clinical features, ENT examination, flexible video laryngoscopy findings, stroboscopy findings, voice handicap index, diagnosis and management. Statistical method and data analysis in this study we tried to describe the analysis process with appropriate methods and principles of statistics, using the data collected from the patients, participated in this study.  

Results: The most common non-malignant lesion among the 50 patients studied was vocal cord polyp; second most common being the vocal cord cyst. The relation of hoarseness of voice, difficulty in breathing, smoking or alcohol intake with non-malignant lesions showed a statistically significant result. On interpreting the stroboscopic findings of various lesions, all cases of vocal nodule showed an hourglass-shaped glottic closure.

Conclusions: These lesions can create a lot of mental and emotional tension in the patient and the family. Early diagnosis of the lesions can lead to effective management and functional recovery. Stroboscopy is valued for its excellent ability to examine the structure and the function of the glottis during phonation.
A clinical study of skin manifestations in diabetes at a tertiary hospital in Kerala
Authors: Antony Anju
Published: December 2021

Background: Though extensive data is available on diabetes and its systemic manifestations, research about the skin lesions in those afflicted with diabetes is scarce. The aim of this study was to understand dermatological manifestations in diabetes.

Methods: A hospital based cross sectional study was carried out among 100 randomly selected diabetic patients afflicted with skin lesions due to diabetes.

Results: Out of 73 patients having cutaneous infections, 71.2% were having fungal infections. Out of 18 having bacterial infections, 38.9% were having furuncles. Out of 52 having fungal infections, 63.5% were having dermatophytosis. Out of 14 cases of candidal infections, the most common was intertrigo in 35.7%. Out of 33 cases of dermatophytosis, T. cruris was the most common in 54.5%. Out of 82 patients in whom we suspected dermatoses strongly associated with diabetes, the most common condition was pruritus in 36.6% of the cases.

Conclusions: Bacterial skin infections and dermatophytosis were the most common diabetic dermatological lesions in the present study.
Clinicopathological, trichoscopic and biochemical parameters in females with patterned hair loss
Authors: Varma Krishnendra , Mahadik Aishwarya , Kumar Ujjwal , Agrawal Somya
Published: December 2021

Background: Hair has no vital functions in humans but its loss from the scalp can create a sense of negative body image and anxiety. The term ‘female pattern hair loss’ is explained by decrease in hair fiber production and their eventual miniaturization. To evaluate the clinicopathological, trichoscopic and biochemical parameters in females with patterned hair loss.

Methods: 37 females in age group of 18-45 years complaining of reduction in hair volume with diffuse thinning over the crown were included in our study after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Detailed history was taken and clinical examination was done. Written consent and ethical clearance from Institutional Ethical Committee was taken. Ludwig grading, evaluation of other clinical signs of hyperandrogenism and trichoscopy was done. These females then underwent histopathological examination. 10 ml blood was withdrawn to assess anemic, thyroid and hormonal profile in these females.

Results: Out of 37 females examined majority of the females had Ludwig grade 1 hair loss. Serum levels of testosterone were found significantly related to clinical signs of hyperandrogenism. Hair diameter variability and peri pilar sign formed the majority in trichoscopy (62.2% each). The most common histopathological finding was perifollicular infiltrate (70.3%).

Conclusions: FPHL can contribute to severe psychological distress. Despite its high prevalence, its diagnosis and treatment still impose several difficulties in clinical practice. Although hormonal factors are believed to contribute, its pathogenesis still remains elusive.
Dermoscopy as a diagnostic tool to differentiate between tinea pedis and plantar psoriasis
Authors: Manoharan Roshan , Narasappa Raghavendra B. , Jayaprasad Sandhaya
Published: December 2021

Background: Clinical differentiation between tinea pedis and plantar psoriasis may sometimes be challenging, with consequent diagnostic delays and unnecessary therapies; in such cases histopathological analysis helps to differentiate the 2 conditions. In this study we used a dermoscope as a non-invasive tool to investigate the significance of specific dermoscopic features and to improve their non-invasive differentiation.

Methods: A clinical diagnosis of plantar psoriasis/tinea pedis was made on basis of accepted literature and proved by histopathology. Image capturing was performed using a dermoscope. Based on combination of history, clinical, and dermoscopic examination conclusive diagnosis with specific dermoscopic features for each disease was achieved.

Results: The 15 patients of biopsy proven tinea pedis and 17 patients of biopsy proven plantar psoriasis were selected. We found that the presence of whitish powdery scales located in the furrows with apparently uninvolved skin in between was significant in tinea pedis whereas the presence of silvery white scales on a pinkish red erythematous background with regularly distributed red dots was significant in plantar psoriasis.

Conclusions: Dermoscopy showed significant patterns in tinea pedis and plantar psoriasis due to their well-known different histological and physio pathological background, with white diffuse scales reflecting the dry and hyperkeratotic nature of plantar psoriasis and the red dots signifying the pin point blood vessels seen clinically as Auspitz sign. The peculiar scaling in tinea pedis might result from the predilection of dermatophytes to proliferate in moist environment, such as the furrows.
Shampoo, conditioner and hair washing
Authors: George Neethu Mary , Potlapati Amruthavalli
Published: December 2021

Modern shampoos are much more than just cleansing agents. With rising demands for new milder and ‘greener’ products, the developments in the field of shampoo and conditioners are moving at a faster pace than ever before. Soaps were initially used to clean scalp but are not recommended for hair cleansing because they leave behind a soap scum when mixed with hard water that is difficult to rinse from the hair and scalp. There are different types of shampoos. Besides “normal” cleaning shampoo, there are “specific” shampoos that have additional ingredients targeting some hair problems. Dermatologists most frequently prescribe shampoos but little is taught in medical schools about the hair cosmetics. Most of the prescriptions are based only on the treatment of the scalp and usually disregards the hair fibre health. Hence it is imperative for dermatologists to known about the mechanism of shampoos, different surfactants and where to choose which shampoo.
Inclusive practice, personhood and co-production to promote person centred care for people living with dementia: A review on approaches of two countries regarding care of people living with dementia
Authors: Desai Sachin
Published: December 2021

This article attempts to describe a case study of a person living with dementia, a senior citizen, who is staying with her children at home, who are her caregivers. We will critically evaluate and analyse the strengths and weaknesses of the services that have been provided to her by the Health Care Providers and will highlight the topic of Person-centred Care provided to her by her caregivers. We will be highlighting her case scenario wherein we will enlist and elaborate the details, about dementia care from the moment of receiving the diagnosis to challenges faced both by the people living with dementia (PLWD) and their caregivers, in providing care. In this article, we will compare the details about the various studies and findings in discussion and compare the caregiving practices in India and the UK.
Role of cholesterol in cognitive function in the elderly
Authors: Deshpande V K , Doda Vishwin
Published: December 2021

The role of cholesterol in Cognitive Decline is less known as compared to other pathologies linked with dyslipidaemia. However, Cholesterol is well-known to have multiple functions in normal functioning of the brain and the aging process. This study therefore aimed at finding a co-relation, if any, between Cholesterol and age-related cognitive decline.

To assess Cognitive Function of subjects and compare it with respective blood cholesterol levels.

The study included 50 elderly subjects from Maharashtra (females: 12%) assessed using Marathi version of Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and their cholesterol blood concentrations obtained using a Lipid Profile investigation. Cholesterol levels and cognitive function was then co-related using statistical analysis.

The subjects with a higher Total Cholesterol & LDL Cholesterol had slightly less scores on the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) Test. However, the difference was found to be significant.

Based on the results obtained, no relevant co-relation could be found between Blood Cholesterol Levels and Cognitive Function
The 100 most influential articles in myopia: a bibliometric analysis
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China, Wang Xue-Jiao , Jiang Yang ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China, Chou Yu-Yu ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China, Luo Yan ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China, Li Ying ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China, Ma Jin ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China, Zhong Yong ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
Published: December 2021

AIM: To identify and characterize the 100 most influential articles in the field of myopia over the last decades.
METHODS: Articles on myopia published between January 1975 and March 2020 were searched through the Web of Science Core Collection database. Two independent authors reviewed and determined the 100 most cited articles. The characteristics of each eligible article were recorded, including authors, institutions, countries, journals, publication date, total citations (TCs), annual citations (ACs), research focus and article type.
RESULTS: The top 100 most influential articles were published between 1983 and 2016, with 1999 as the most prolific year. The mean number of TCs was 288 (range: 193-537) and the mean number of ACs was 19 (range: 7-109). Treatment and epidemiology of myopia were the most important research focus. These articles were published in 21 journals led by Ophthalmology (29%) followed by Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (23%). The number of ACs for articles published in the last ten years was significantly higher than that for the other most-cited articles (44 vs 16, Mann-Whitney U test P<0.01). There is no difference in the number of TCs between original articles and review articles, while the number of ACs for review articles was significantly higher than that for original articles (22 vs 17, Mann-Whitney U test P<0.05).
CONCLUSION: This bibliometric analysis can provide us with concise information about the development trend of research in the field of myopia in the past few decades, and provide an important reference for researchers to guide future research.