bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetry of upper eyelid after unilateral blepharoptosis repair with minimally invasive conjoint fascial sheath suspension technique
Authors:   Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, China; Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin 300020, China, Liu Yianzhu , Chen Xia ,   Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin 300020, China; Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin 300020, China
Published: December 2023

AIM: To investigate the symmetry of upper eyelid in patients with unilateral mild and moderate blepharoptosis who underwent unilateral minimally invasive combined fascia sheath (CFS) suspension.
METHODS: A retrospective study of patients who underwent unilateral minimally invasive CFS suspension surgery between January 2018 and December 2021. Inclusion criteria included unilateral mild and moderate ptosis, good levator muscle function (>9 mm) and follow-up of at least 6mo. Pre- and post-operative symmetry was graded subjectively for marginal reflex distance 1 (MRD1), tarsal platform show (TPS) and eyebrow fat span (BFS). A t-test was used to evaluate MRD1, TPS and BFS asymmetry by calculating delta values. The Bézier curve tool of the Image J software was used to extract the upper eyelid contours, where the symmetry was measured by the percentage of overlapping curvatures (POC).
RESULTS: Totally 105 patients (105 eyelids) were included (mild group, n=84; moderate group, n=21). Postoperatively, all patients increased MRD1 and decreased TPS in the ptotic eye while maintaining unchanged BFS. The asymmetric delta value for MRD1 was measured to be 1.48±0.86 preoperatively, and it decreased to 0.58±0.67 postoperatively in all cases (P=0.0004). In patients with mild ptosis, the asymmetry value of TPS fell significantly from 1.15±0.62 to 0.68±0.38 (P=0.0187). The symmetry of the upper eyelid contour increased in all subgroups of patients, with a POC of 59.39%±13.45% preoperatively and POC of 78.29%±13.80% postoperatively.
CONCLUSION: Minimally invasive CFS suspension is proved to be an effective means of improving the symmetry of unilateral ptosis in terms of MRD1 (all subgroups), POC (all subgroups) and TPS (only mild group), whereas BFS is unaffected.
Silicone oil as a corneal lubricant to reduce corneal edema and improve visualization during vitrectomy
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; College of Health Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China, Che Dan-Yang , Zhou Ji-Bo ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; College of Health Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China, Zhu Dong-Qing ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China; College of Health Science and Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
Published: December 2023

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of silicone oil (SO) as a corneal lubricant to improve visualization during vitrectomy.
METHODS: Patients who underwent vitreoretinal surgery were divided into two groups. Group 1 was operated on with initial SO (Oxane 5700) as a corneal lubricant. Group 2 was operated on with initial lactated ringer's solution (LRS) and then replaced with SO as required. Fundus clarity was scored during the surgery. Fluorescein staining was performed to determine the damage to corneal epithelium.
RESULTS: Totally 114 eyes of 114 patients were included. Single SO use maintained a clear cornea and provided excellent visualization of surgical image. In group 1, the fundus clarity was grade 3 in 41/45 eyes and grade 2 in 4/45 eyes. In group 2, corneal edema frequently occurred after initial LRS use. The fundus clarity was grade 3 in 19/69 eyes, 2 in 37/69 eyes and 1 in 13/69 eyes (P<0.05). SO was applied in 29 eyes of initial LRS use with subsequent corneal edema, which eliminated the corneal edema in 26 eyes. Corneal fluorescein staining score in group 1 was 0 in 28 eyes, 1 in 11 eyes and 2 in 6 eyes, and 40, 20 and 9, respectively, in group 2 (all P>0.05).
CONCLUSION: The use of SO as a corneal lubricant is effective and safe for preserving and improving corneal clarity and providing clear surgical field during vitrectomy.
Caracterización sociodemográfica y clínica de pacientes con pie diabético y sus complicaciones, en la Clínica Universitaria Bolivariana, Medellín, Colombia, 2018 – 2020
Authors: Cerón-Luna Sebastian , Saavedra-Valencia Miguel Eduardo , Martínez-Sánchez Lina María , Hernández-Martínez Alejandro , Coronado-Magalhães Gabriela , Yepes-Saldarriaga Juan Pedro
Published: December 2023

Introducción: el pie diabético es una complicación crónica de la diabetes que consiste en la infección o destrucción de los tejidos del pie; que puede terminar en amputación de la extremidad si no es tratada adecuadamente. Objetivo: caracterizar los pacientes con pie diabético y sus complicaciones asociadas, identificando diferencias relacionadas con las características sociodemográficas, clínicas y de laboratorio con sus exacerbaciones. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional descriptivo transversal que incluyó pacientes mayores de edad con diagnóstico clínico de diabetes que presentaron pie diabético entre 2018 y 2020 en la Clínica León XIII y Clínica Universitaria Bolivariana, Medellín, Colombia. La fuente de información fueron historias clínicas. Resultados: se incluyeron 39 pacientes con enfermedad de pie diabético, 38,5% estaban entre 61 a 70 años, 59% eran hombres. La diabetes tipo 2 fue la más prevalente con 92,3%. El tiempo entre el diagnóstico de diabetes y la enfermedad de pie diabético tuvo una mediana de 8 años; mientras que el tiempo entre diagnóstico de enfermedad de pie diabético y exacerbación tuvo una mediana de 4,2 años. El 85,7% tuvieron recurrencia de exacerbaciones, siendo la úlcera superficial la más frecuente con un 23,8%. 38,5% de los pacientes con exacerbaciones requirieron cirugía. Conclusión: el pie diabético se presenta en el 38,5% de los pacientes entre 61 a 70 años, este puede presentar exacerbaciones hasta en un 85,7% que incrementen el riesgo de complicaciones y amputación. Por esto es importante impactar y valorar a estos pacientes.
Tumor de células germinales extragonadal de tipo seminoma en mediastino. Reporte de caso
Authors: Alquichire-Luna Camilo Andrés , Otero-Álvarez Andrea Carolina
Published: December 2023

La presentación extragonadal de los tumores de células germinales constituye un 5-7 % de los mismos, principalmente en varones jóvenes. Debido a su escasa incidencia a nivel global, representa un reto diagnóstico en la práctica clínica. Se presenta el caso de un paciente adulto joven masculino sin antecedentes asociados, quien consultó a institución de III nivel por exacerbación de sintomatología de cuatro meses de evolución caracterizada por dolor torácico, síndrome de vena cava superior, adenopatías cervicales y síndrome constitucional. Mediante imagenología se identificó una masa mediastinal que fue sometida a estudios histopatológicos por muestras de toracotomía, permitiendo realizar el diagnóstico de seminoma mediastinal y eventualmente iniciar tratamiento con quimio-radioterapia. Se destaca la importancia del trabajo interdisciplinario a nivel hospitalario vinculando hallazgos clínicos determinantes como la presencia de síndrome de vena cava superior, las ayudas paraclínicas, radiológicas e histopatológicas, para identificar adecuadamente este tipo de neoplasias por presentar un reto diagnóstico.
Propiedades psicométricas del Child Behavior Checklist 4-18 (CBCL/4-18) en una muestra semiurbana y rural de Caldas en el 2021
Authors: Agudelo-Hernández Felipe , Vélez-Botero Helena , Guapacha-Montoya Marcela
Published: December 2023

Introducción: la alta prevalencia de problemas internalizantes, como ansiedad, depresión, síntomas somáticos, y externalizantes, como trastornos de conducta, problemas sociales y problemas atencionales, en la niñez y la adolescencia demanda métodos prácticos para detección oportuna. El CBCL/4-18 ha sido usado para la identificación de problemas emocionales, conductuales y sociales en niños y adolescentes. Objetivo: analizar las propiedades psicométricas del CBCL/4- 18 en una muestra colombiana de población semiurbana y rural. Materiales y métodos: estudio cuantitativo, correlacional, realizado en instituciones educativas de cuatro municipios de Caldas durante el segundo semestre del 2021. Se realizó la validez de contenido por juicio de expertos, la cual se aplicó a una muestra de 859 cuidadores de niños o adolescentes con edades entre 6 y 18 años que vivían en área semiurbana (47,62 %) y rural (52,38 %). Se realizaron análisis univariados para determinar medidas de tendencia central, análisis bivariados para explorar la validez de constructo y análisis multivariados para analizar el grado de dificultad y discriminación, además de la consistencia interna. Resultados: se encontró una alta confiabilidad (Cronbach: 0.94) en toda la escala. En la prueba t todos los ítems obtuvieron significación estadística de p ≤ 0.05, se correlacionan positiva y significativamente con la escala a la cual pertenecen. Conclusión: el CBCL 4-18 muestra características psicométricas adecuadas para ser empleado como un instrumento de apoyo diagnóstico para la identificación y valoración de problemáticas mentales en población pediátrica rural y semiurbana en entornos colombianos similares al estudiado.
Halal tourism sector and tax allowance policy: a case study observed from normative problems to effective implementation
Authors: Abdul Kadir Jaelani  , Resti Dian Luthviati  , Muhammad Jihadul Hayat  , Abdur Rohim
Published: December 2023

Various tax allowance policies have been established by the government to revive the Indonesian tourism sector. However, it is crucial to examine whether the tax allowance policy can enhance the tax and tourism revenue in the halal tourism sector in West Nusa Tenggara. This research aims to provide a prescription for the Tax Allowance Policy in West Nusa Tenggara by employing a normative legal study with a statute approach and conceptual approach. This research suggests that the tax allowance policy has not effectively contributed to the recovery of the halal tourism sector in West Nusa Tenggara. The factors contributing to the situation include the disharmony between policies promoting halal tourism and the provisions outlined in Article 18B, paragraph (5) of the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia and the principles of "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" (Unity in Diversity). In addition, this disharmonious Tourism Policy has resulted in a rise in the poverty levels in West Nusa Tenggara, thereby designating it as Indonesia’s poorest region. In practical terms, the finding of this research serves as a theoretical basis for the government to implement tax allowance policies to aid in the recovery and development of the halal tourism sector. This includes considerations for both legal substance and legal structure. For instance, in terms of substance, this guidance offers directives for local regulations, focusing on  attribution and delegation, fostering equal business opportunities and benefits, as well as enabling the adaptation to challenges arising from local, national, and global changes.
The Jejuluk in Komering tribe weddings in the globalization from a siyasa perspective
Authors: Yusdani  , Ahmad Arifai  , Januariansyah Arfaizar
Published: December 2023

This article discusses jejuluk as the bestowing of traditional titles to the bride and groom in the Komering tradition after the wedding. This tradition is still preserved in the Komering community today. This article looks at the reason why it is important for the Komering people to bestow titles at a wedding ceremony, and how this tradition is maintained. This article is based on a study conducted in Tanjung Lubuk District, Ogan Komering Ilir Regency, South Sumatra. The study used symbol theory that integrated an ethical approach with the meaning of symbols based on the researcher's perspective. This study also used an emic perspective, which is a cultural understanding based on the owner of the culture. Data collection was carried out using three techniques: observation, in-depth interviews, and secondary data. In this research, two levels of analysis were used: interpretive qualitative analysis because this research is cultural research and analysis from the perspective of siyasa. This research shows that jejuluk is a tradition inherited from the ancestors to support the building of a sakinah, mawaddah, and rahmah family because it has the values ​​of harmony and nobility. From the perspective of siyasa, jejuluk can be interpreted as a strategy for the Komering community to preserve local wisdom and values ​​in marriage, so their traditions and cultural roots of their ancestors are not lost amidst the strong currents of globalization.
Rahmatan lil Alamin Islamic Value Education Model based on Muhammadiyah School Culture
Authors: Parjiman Parjiman , Sutarman  , Muhammad Ragil Kurniawan  , Sutrisno  , Kun Hidayat
Published: December 2023

This research is prompted by the prevalence of child delinquency cases, encompassing issues such as bullying, lack of manners, and early-age smoking.  Concerns arise regarding the potential implications of these juvenile delinquencies on subsequent behaviors in adolescence.  The primary objective of this study is to delve deeper into the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Islamic values education model based on Muhammadiyah school culture at the Muhammadiyah Flagship Elementary School.  The focus is on understanding the role of schools in instilling character values and exploring the benefits of the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Islamic values education model within the context of Muhammadiyah school culture, particularly in strengthening character values at the Lemahdadi Muhammadiyah Leading Primary School. This research employs a qualitative methodology with a descriptive analysis approach.  Data collection, analysis, and description occur simultaneously to address the formulated problem.  The research findings reveal that programs rooted in Muhammadiyah school culture,  including strengthening students' daily worship, Hizbul Wathan training, sacred footprint training, leadership training, market day, Tahfidz Qur'an, and language strengthening in foreign and regional languages, effectively instill the Islamic values of Rahmatan Lil Alamin in students. Teachers play a crucial role in this process through integration into school culture and internalization in religious activities. The various models of Rahmatan Lil Alamin Islamic values education, grounded in Muhammadiyah school culture, significantly contribute to the transformation of students' character and behavioral values. The outcomes indicate a positive shift towards humanist, tolerant, friendly, and democratic attributes among students.
Improving Student Well-Being Aspects through Teacher's Instructional Creativity in Islamic Elementary School
Authors: Martanti Fitria , Fatkhuronji Moch , Husna Asma’ul , Maskur
Published: December 2023

Ensuring student well-being has become a pivotal aspect  that directly impacts learning outcomes, physical health, and the development of spiritual life.  A key avenue for achieving student well-being lies in the ability of both the headmaster to manage the school effectively and the teacher to create a comfortable learning environment.  This qualitative research focuses on delineating the efforts undertaken by the Islamic Elementary School of Mangunsari Semarang in realizing  student well-being and assessing the creativity of teachers in this pursuit.  The research seeks to provide a detailed description based on the real situation at the research site. Data collection techniques involve observation, documentation, and interviews.  The findings reveal that the school's efforts in achieving  student well-being encompass effective school administration management and the development of understanding, knowledge, values, attitudes, and skills through both intracurricular and co-curricular programs. Furthermore, the school employs special assistance in various fields to ensure student education and support their well-being.  The aspects of student well-being are considered comprehensively, encompassing cognitive, emotional, social, spiritual, physical, and personal aspects. Teachers contribute to achieving  student well-being through creative approaches , utilizing various media and tailoring learning methods, resources, and materials to suit the students’ needs.
The Role of Scout Extracurriculars in Shaping The Character of Social Care
Authors: Aqodiah Aqodiah , Hasanah Niswatun , Humaira
Published: December 2023

This research seeks to comprehend the implementation of Scout extracurricular activities in shaping social awareness in the era of globalization.  Employing a qualitative descriptive research method, the study draws primary data from students and the Scout Leader School Principal.  Data were collected through interviews and documentation, employing a creative source triangulation test for ensuring data validity. Following Miles and Huberman's process, the study encompasses data collection, reduction, presentation, and inference.  The findings reveal that scout extracurricular activities have the potential to cultivate social awareness among students, fostering empathy and a sense of ownership towards the nation and patriotism.  Notably, students' social awareness and character exhibit significant improvement over time with consistent participation in scout activities.  This research holds relevance for adoption by other schools in Indonesia, particularly in the context of extracurricular activities such as scouting.  Given the prevalence of scout groups in nearly all schools in Indonesia,  from primary to tertiary levels, the findings of this study can be broadly applied.
Hubungan antara Self Awareness dan Self Efficacy dengan Pengambilan Keputusan Karier Siswa Kelas XI SMA Negeri 1 Banyudono
Authors: Cahyaningtyas Dita , Kholili Ma`rifatin Indah , Dewantoro Adi
Published: December 2023

Tujuan penelitian ini untuk: 1) mengetahui tingkat self awareness, self efficacy, dan kemampuan pengambilan keputusan karier, 2) menganalisis hubungan self awareness dengan pengambilan keputusan karier, 3) menganalisis hubungan self efficacy dengan pengambilan keputusan karier, 4) menganalisis hubungan antara self awareness dan self efficacy dengan pengambilan keputusan karier. Pendekatan penelitian menggunakan kuantitatif dengan metode korelasional. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan propotional random sampling, dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 72 siswa. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan instrumen skala psikologi. Hasil penelitian ini adalah 1) Rata-rata siswa memiliki self awareness di tingkat sedang, self efficacy di tingkat sedang, dan pengambilan keputusan karier di tingkat tinggi 2) terdapat hubungan positif dengan tingkat korelasi sedang antara self awareness dengan pengambilan keputusan karier, diperoleh nilai sig. (2- tailed) 0,000 dan nilai koefisien korelasi 0,407. 3) tidak terdapat hubungan antara self efficacy dengan pengambilan keputusan karier, diperoleh nilai sig. (2- tailed) 0,751 dan nilai koefisien korelasi 0,038. 4) secara simultan terdapat hubungan signifikan positif dengan tingkat korelasi sedang antara self awareness dan self efficacy dengan pengambilan keputusan karier, diperoleh nilai sig. (2- tailed) 0,002 dan nilai R 0,409. Kesimpulan penelitian ini adalah semakin tinggi self awareness dan self efficacy, maka akan semakin tinggi pula pengambilan keputusan karier siswa, begitupun sebaliknya.
Application and Development of Embedded Systems with IoT Components: Aspect of Safety and Reliability
Authors: Rahmanović Adis , Hakić Ergin , Saračević Muzafer , Međedović Enver
Published: December 2023

We will present the possibilities of application and development, especially in the field of embedded systems, its interaction with other IoT components, the security aspects of individual components, as well as the domain of their interaction. In embedded systems, we will present new technologies such as fuzzy logic, application possibilities in embedded systems, and machine learning, as application possibilities through the implementation of machine learning. Then we will describe some more examples of the application of fuzzy logic, the automatic control of certain functions in cameras, as well as the defuzzification process, and the possibility of application in security cameras. In embedded systems, we will present the basic aspects of optimization and security, both in everyday applications and in interaction with other components of IoT technologies. The paper shows how security, reliability, and cost estimates affect the implementation phases and the final use of embedded systems, through examples of their application in industry. Security and data protection is shown through the construction of the mentioned devices, their application, but also different encryption methods, permissions, security devices at the network level, as well as implemented IoT technologies. Application examples are focused on the real segment, both in the field of transport, multimedia, design, and in the field of industrial application possibilities.
The Impact of Information System and Information Technology on Work Effectiveness: The Mediating Role of Communication
Authors: Wahjoedi Tri , Harjanti Wulandari , Fatchurrohman Mochamad
Published: December 2023

This study analyses the influence of information systems and information technology on work effectiveness, with communication as a mediator. The research was conducted on 35 warehouse employees at an SME AKR Food Company in Gresik, East Java, Indonesia. The research results show that information systems do not significantly influence communication, but have a significant direct influence on work effectiveness. Information technology also has a significant direct influence on communication and work effectiveness. Communication mediates the influence of information technology on work effectiveness. Optimizing communication through intelligent management control and reporting systems, short interval control and escalation procedures can increase work effectiveness. This study introduces additional contributions in linking information systems, information technology, communication, and work effectiveness in SME companies, and emphasizes the importance of formulating clear information systems to overcome communication limitations in order to achieve optimal work effectiveness.
Entrepreneurial Marketing in Village Owned Enterprises (VOEs): A Qualitative Study of Village Owned Enterprises in Indonesia
Authors: Makmur M , Mohamad Norhidayah , Binti Yahaya Siti Norbaya
Published: December 2023

This study explores the main dimensions of the entrepreneurial marketing concept in village-owned enterprises and assesses how far marketing strategies are currently consistent with the entrepreneurial marketing approach. This research method is qualitative with a semi-structured in-depth interview approach based on seven elements of the entrepreneurial marketing concept with twelve directors of selected village-owned enterprises. Data were collected and analyzed using thematic analysis facilitated by ATLAS.ti software. The findings from this research show that village-owned enterprises have succeeded in adapting and implementing the entrepreneurial marketing concept, which is essential for their business. The main motivation for this research is that empirical investigation of entrepreneurial marketing from the perspective of village-owned enterprises has received little attention.
Corporate social responsibility practices and enterprise risk management of the GCC Islamic banks
Authors: Alsalami Tamader , Low Soo-Wah , Nor Shifa Mohd , Alsheikh Awatif Hodaed
Published: December 2023

This study intends to investigate the impact of CSR practices on ERM implementation, focusing on Islamic banks operating in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Following the banking industry’s collapse during the 2008 financial crisis, there has been a notable rise in the enactment and literature of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Although the influence of CSR practices on performance, trust, and reputation has been extensively researched, limited research studies have examined their impact on enterprise risk management (ERM). The study uses secondary data obtained from the annual reports of 23 Islamic banks between 2011 and 2020. CSR practices and ERM implementations were scored using content analysis. Using panel regression techniques, we find a significant positive relationship between CSR practices and ERM implementation for listed Islamic banks over the sample period. The relationship remains intact across two distinct ERM measures and various estimation methods. The findings of the study contribute to the literature by offering valuable empirical evidence of the effect of corporate social responsibility practices on enterprise risk management implementation in the GCC Islamic banks. The study suggests that executives, policymakers, and regulators of Islamic banks in the GCC should support and endorse socially related initiatives to aid in the successful implementation of ERM.
The impact of corporate social responsibility on the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises can be mediated by innovation ability and learning orientation
Authors: Handayati Puji , Hermawan Agus , Rochayatun Sulis , Ratnawati  , Nastiti Ratna Dwi , Palil Mohd Rizal
Published: December 2023

Every company will face complexity, change, and increasingly fierce business competition that occurs not only in large companies but also in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Achieving competitive advantage for MSMEs requires assistance and guidance from external parties, both government and private, through the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. This study examines the effect of CSR programs on the innovation ability, learning orientation, and performance of MSMEs. The ability of Innovation and learning orientation to mediate the relationship between CSR programs and the performance of MSMEs. This study's population is the MSME owners receiving CSR program assistance from the government (BUMN) and the private sector in Tulungagung, Blitar, Malang, Batu, and Sidoarjo districts, with a research sample of 165 MSME owners. Based on Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the study results show that companies or governments that provide CSR program assistance to SMEs contribute to increasing innovation capabilities. For companies or governments, it is necessary to have a model of CSR assistance. Assistance is related to providing training on how to improve product quality, providing understanding on compliance with legal standards in business management, providing understanding on the formation of a comprehensive code of ethics in business management, and providing understanding about the contribution of SMEs to charity. MSME owners are expected to maximize innovation by adopting new products and developing new product variations. In addition, SME owners need to find solutions to improve the production process and start adopting other MSME production processes to be better than their competitors.
Inactivation of xenobiotics and their mixtures
Authors:   Belgorod State University, Ustinova Maria N. , Zolotukhina Kseniya A. ,   Belgorod State University
Published: December 2023

The problem of environmental pollution by human waste products is currently critically relevant. Organic fragments undergo degradation slowly and as a result accumulate in ecosystems. Many studies confirm the presence of various pollutants in rivers, soils, atmosphere. Despite a large body of work on the search for methods of inactivation and purification of such pollutants, there is no universal method, applicable to various classes of xenobiotics. The purpose of this work has been to study the destructive processes of model systems of xenobiotics of various nature. UV irradiation has been used as a method of destruction. The destruction of model substances has been studied in the work: two dyes, two pharmaceuticals and two nitro derivatives of phenol. Destructive processes of model systems of various pollutants have been studied. It is shown that many substrates undergo photodestruction within the first hour. Kinetic characteristics of these processes are calculated. The results obtained indicate that UV irradiation can be considered as a promising method of inactivation of various pollutants.
Structure and supramolecular ordering of chitosan L- and D-aspartates
Authors:   Saratov State University, Shipenok Xenia M. , Shipovskaya Anna B. ,   Saratov State University
Published: December 2023

Chitosan (CS) with a viscosity-average molecular weight of 200 kDa and a deacetylation degree of 82 mol%, produced by Bioprogress Ltd. (RF) has been used in this work. Aqueous solutions of enantiomeric salt complexes of CS with L- and D-aspartic acid (AspA) have been obtained at an equimolar CS:AspA ratio, in terms of amino groups. Powders of CS·L-(D-) AspA salts have been isolated from the corresponding solutions by evaporation of water and stored in a desiccator at zero humidity. It has been established that under such conditions a water-soluble salt form of the polymer with lamellar light beige particles 0.05–1.0 mm in size is formed. Using the methods of elemental analysis, IR and NMR spectroscopy, and X-ray diffractometry, the chemical interaction of CS with L-(D-)AspA in aqueous solution and condensed state has been evaluated, and the chemical structure and supramolecular ordering of these enantiomeric salts have been studied. It has been established that, according to the classification of K. Ogawa et al., the formula unit CS·L-(D-)AspA corresponds to non-hydrated salts of type I, in which water molecules are replaced by acid anions. IR spectroscopy confirmed the donor--acceptor polymer–acid interaction and revealed a developed system of intermolecular and intramolecular contacts. One- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy showed the interaction of pairs of atomic nuclei between H3–H6 of the polymer and 2Hβ or Hα of the acid, H1 or H2 and Hα, H1 and H3–H6, due to the spatial proximity of protons in repeating monomer units, in the “bend” chain segments removed along the chain, and in neighboring macromolecules. For CS·L-AspA, additional resonances have been identified between H2 and H3–H6 of the polymer, for CS·D-AspA these have been between H1 or H 2. X-ray diffractometry has revealed a highly ordered orientation of macrochains and a high crystallinity degree, untypical for CS salts. The salt complex CS·D-AspA, in contrast to CS·L-AspA, is characterized by a smaller amount of crystallization water, a more ordered supramolecular structure, and a more developed system of intermolecular and intramolecular contacts.
Biological properties of soils of the "Nadedzhdinsky" and "Severo-Kamyshansky" oil fields located in the territory of the "Mekletsky" reserve
Authors:   Kalmyk Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Buluktaev Aleksey A.
Published: December 2023

The most acute environmental problem in many regions of Russia and other countries is environmental pollution with oil and oil products. Soil pollution with oil products can occur in various emergencies in areas of oil production and processing, when oil pipelines break, which causes leakage and spills on the soil surface, as well as in places where oil products are distributed. The purpose of this study is to study the biological properties of soils in Kalmykia under conditions of oil and oil products pollution. The soils of the Nadezhdinskoye and Severo-Kamyshanskoye oilfields located on the territory of the Mekletinsky nature reserve were chosen as the objects of study. Laboratory and analytical studies, as well as sampling, were carried out using methods generally accepted in biology and soil science. The content of oil products in the soils of the oil field is in a wide range: from 0.4 to 12.5%. A negative correlation was established between the content of oil products in the soil and the activity of catalase and phosphatase. Oil products have a negative impact on the growth and development of radishes. The exploitation of oil fields in specially protected natural areas leads to the flow of oil and oil products into the environment. In the soils of Kalmykia on the territory of oil fields, under the influence of pollution with oil and oil products, the activity of soil enzymes is inhibited, in addition, the soils exhibit a high degree of phytotoxicity with respect to test plants.
The practical component of early Greek philosophy
Authors:   National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Maslov Vadim M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction. The relevance of «practical philosophy» is contrasted with «traditional philosophy», detached from life. The final perspective sees the harmonization of theoretical-practical and practical-theoretical activity of philosophers, based on the appropriate historical and logical rethinking of the history of philosophy. The classical beginning is to emphasize the practical component of early Greek philosophy. Theoretical analysis. The direct connection to life unites Thales as a sage with Thales as a philosopher (the widespread idea of the remoteness of Thales' philosophy from practice is criticized as being engaged by the dominant theoretical-practical paradigm of philosophy). The expert model of the practical component of Thales' philosophy generally characterizes the Milesian school and the Eleates. The absence of effective philosophical practice contributes to the skepticism of Xenophanes and the tragic nature of Heraclitus' work. Political activity of Pythagoreans is the objective maximum of the practical component of philosophy (political model of the practical component of philosophy). The problematic nature of philosophers' political activity, the growth and complication of theoretical research lead the ancient atomists towards the formation of a theoretical-practical model of philosophical activity. Conclusion. The problem of connection with life was positively solved in the work of Thales and was significant for all early Greek philosophy. This should be taken into account in the further study of the history of philosophy; the latter is in essence the school of thought that contributes to the harmonization of theoretical and practical activities of modern philosophy.
Phenomenon of a therapeutic misconception: Bioethical aspect
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Nartova Maria A.
Published: December 2023

Introduction.The obligatory study of medical drugs during clinical trials conduction can be named as one of the fundamental principles of evidence-based medicine. The article deals with the phenomenon of a therapeutic misconception occurring in volunteers participating in such experiments, who failed to understand the scientific goals of clinical trials and incorrectly expect the therapeutical advantages linked with such a participation. It is analyzed which methodological decisions can cause a therapeutic misconception, and also the main bioethical risks associated with this phenomenon are indicated. Theoretical analysis. It is shown that the procedure of the receipt of informed consent form is the main problematic aspect for an adequate understanding of clinical trials’ goals by its volunteers, and violation of the principle of patient autonomy can be named as a primary bioethical risk. During the COVID-19 pandemic there has been a heterogeneity of therapeutic strategies fixed because of the lack of knowledge about the new pathogen. As a result, the inability to adequately assess the risks of the intended treatment both by a patient and a doctor became a new factor that caused the therapeutic misconception. Conclusion. The procedure for obtaining informed consent form is supposed to be revised, the additional analysis of the methodology of clinical trials should be done to reduce the risk of a therapeutic misconception.
Socialism vs Christianity: Ideological reasons for the confrontation
Authors:   Krasnodar Cooperative Institute, Novikov Ivan A.
Published: December 2023

Introduction. The object of research carried out in the article is the consciousness of modern society, which is an internally contradictory conglomerate, including both Christian and anti-Christian moments. The subject of the study is the religious content of the socialist program for the reorganization of society. The methodological basis of the study is the works by Russian authors, who are defined as representatives of Russian religious philosophy. Theoretical analysis. Socialism is an alternative to Christianity religious position (not a doctrine, since it does not recognize itself as a religion, but a position) which is specified by the fact that it is a rebellion against God. Socialism does not deny God (that is why it rebels against Him), but it denies religion, the connection between God and a man, its forms and content, and claims to create its own surrogate religion. Whereupon socialism must be qualified as anti-Christianity, but not as atheism. The essence of the socialist “religion” is disappointment in man, denial the right of a man to freedom as a result, and the assertion of the need for total control by society and the state over a man and people. Conclusion. The religion can be denied only by the religion. Therefore the ideology of socialism that denies Christianity must be qualified as a religion sui generis.
Personality’s emotional ecological safety: Phenomenological analysis and research prospects
Authors:   Saratov State University, Frolova Svetlana V.
Published: December 2023

The introduction describes intrascientific and sociocultural factors that determine the difficulties of studying research problems of psychology of a personality’s emotional sphere, and highlights its insufficiently studied issues. The solution to these issues may offer new prospects of the development of fundamental and applied knowledge of the essence of human nature. The author suggests examining a personality’s ecological safety in expressing and controlling feelings as one of the heuristic objectives. The theoretical analysis aims at the phenomenon of a personality’s emotional ecological safety. Its description is based on the ideas of personality ecology that have recently emerged in the field of psychology. The author introduces and defines the notion of a personality’s emotional ecological safety as a complex ability to generate and express psychologically safe for a personality and other people, eco-sensitive, proactive reaction to the events and emotional behavior of other people. The research identifies the components of emotional ecological safety connected with the ways of expressing empathy, interest and trust in another person’s feelings, giving him or her freedom of emotional experience, and readiness to neutralize other people’s negative emotions, regulation of one’s own emotional expressiveness, the locus of control over emotions. The conclusion outlines the prospects for designing psychodiagnostic tools to find the ability of a personality’s emotional ecological safety and application of the results of further empirical research in the positive psychological counseling.
Modern aspects of teaching a foreign language to schoolchildren and students of secondary vocational education in Finland
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Parshina Maria M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Within the framework of this article, the author made an attempt to consider some features of teaching a foreign language in Finland at school and in institutions of secondary vocational education, which allow the Finns to speak a foreign language at a fairly good level. Theoretical analysis. Consideration of the reasons for these results made it possible to reveal the fact that in recent years a system of early learning of a foreign language has been introduced in Finnish education. Much attention is paid to the formation of communication and interaction skills. The study of a foreign language in the secondary school is aimed at familiarizing the student with the culture of the language being studied. When teaching a foreign language to students of secondary vocational education institutions, there is an active integration of general education and vocational training. Conclusion. When studying their native language, students consider general linguistic concepts that are also inherent in other languages and contribute to a common understanding of the language structure. Finnish teachers in their professional activities rely on the teachings of L. S. Vygotsky about the zone of proximal development. Language learning is seen as a lifelong process that aims to develop multilingual competence.
Will the zombie box eat your brains for breakfast?
Authors:   Saratov State University, Tikhonova Sophia V. , Artamonov Denis S. ,   Saratov State University
Published: December 2023

Introduction. The review is devoted to the publication of the book “Cyberhumanism. How communication technologies transform our society” by Nizhny Novgorod researcher A. N. Fortunatov – the Doctor of Philosophy, specialist in the field of communication studies, media philosophy and the history of television. Theoretical analysis. In the book by A. N. Fortunatov, methodological principles of communicative theory, media philosophy and humanism as a philosophical trend were combined. The result was the emergence of the term "cyberhumanism", which serves as a characteristic of the aggressive nature of communication technologies aimed, according to the author, at subordinating a person to digital means of communication and media. The author claims that the digital transformation of society is a natural phenomenon that arose as a result of the development of scientific and technological progress, however, the “callousness” of the digital sphere negatively affects the personality, that becomes only a reflection of the media. A. N. Fortunatov shows how digital media reality is constructed, where the subject and the object change places. A person ceases to be a subject in interaction with the media, since it is not he who influences them, but, on the contrary, the means of communication subordinate him to their will and the logic of existence. Conclusion. Such an ambiguous approach to the consideration of the phenomenon of media constitutes the research value of the book, which may be of interest to a wide range of readers dealing with the problems of digital society.
Evaluation of risk factors for recurrence of cutaneous adverse reactions due to anti-seizure medications in children: A retrospective study
Authors: Günay Çağatay , Uzan Gamze Sarıkaya , Asilsoy Suna , Uzuner Nevin , Kangallı Özge , Kurul Semra Hız , Yiş Uluç
Published: December 2023

Background: Cutaneous adverse reactions (CARs) are one of the most important reasons for anti-seizure medication (ASM) discontinuation in epilepsy. However, such discontinuations can cause an increase in seizures. This study investigates the risk factors for ASM-related rash recurrence in children.
Methods: This retrospective case-control study consisted of the patient group with a single rash due to ASMs (group 1), the patient group with rash recurrence (group 2), and the control group. While the demographic and clinical features of group 1 and the control group were compared in terms of a single rash, group 1 and group 2 were compared for rash recurrence.
Results: Group 1, group 2, and control group consisted of 112, 33, and 166 patients, respectively. Female gender was a risk factor for a single rash (P < 0.001) but not for recurrence (P = 0.439). Presence of atopic disease [odds ratio (OR): 9.5, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.8-23.1, P < 0.001], family history of drug allergy (OR: 26.3, 95% CI: 9.6-72.1, P < 0.001), and polytherapy (OR: 23.5, 95% CI: 8.7-62.9, P < 0.001) were risk factors for rash recurrence. Aromatic nature of both the ASMs associated with the first rash (OR: 14.4, 95% CI: 3.2-63.2, P < 0.001) and rash recurrence (OR: 11.3, 95% CI: 4.6-27.5, P < 0.001) were determined as risk factors separately.
Conclusion: Careful use of aromatic drugs may prevent recurrence of ASM-related CAR in children, particularly in cases of personal history of allergic disease and family history of drug allergy.
Plasma neurofilament light chain associated with impaired regional cerebral blood flow in healthy individuals
Authors: Nabizadeh Fardin , T. Ward Richard , Balabandian Mohammad , Kankam Samuel Berchi , Pourhamzeh Mahsa
Published: December 2023

Background: Recent findings suggest that the plasma axonal structural protein, neurofilament light (NFL) chain, may serve as a potential blood biomarker for early signs of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Given the need for early detection of neurodegenerative disorders, the current study investigated the associations between regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in brain regions associated with neurodegenerative disorders and memory function with plasma NFL in AD, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and healthy controls (HCs).
Methods: We recruited 29 AD, 76 MCI, and 39 HCs from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database in the current cross-sectional study. We used Pearson’s correlation models adjusted for the effect of age, sex, and APOE genotype to investigate the association between plasma NFL and rCBF.
Results: We found non-significant differences in age (F(2, 141) = 1.304; P = 0.275) and years of education (F(2, 141) = 0.013; P = 0.987). Additionally, we found significant differences between groups in terms of MMSE scores (F(2, 141) = 100.953; P < 0.001). Despite the observation of significantly reduced rCBF in AD and MCI groups versus HCs, we did not detect significant differences in plasma NFL between these groups. We found significant negative associations between plasma NFL and rCBF in various AD-related regions, these findings were only observed after analyses in all participants, and were observed in HCs alone and no significant associations were observed in the AD or MCI groups.
Conclusion: These outcomes add to our current understanding surrounding the use of rCBF and plasma NFL biomarkers as tools for early detection and diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases. A conclusion might be that the association between NFL and impaired rCBF exists before the clinical symptoms appear. Further longitudinal studies with a large sample size should be performed to examine the correlation between plasma NFL and rCBF in order to understand these complex relationships.