bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FROM RIVERSIDE HUB TO URBAN CENTER: UNDERSTANDING THE METAMORPHOSIS OF THE SULTANATE OF DELI'S CAPITAL LANDSCAPE
Authors: Affan Muhammad
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACTThe Sultanate of Deli is a sultanate located on the east coast of Sumatra that has been colonized by the Dutch since 1862. Before colonization by the Dutch, the capital of the Sultanate of Deli was located in a riverside town called Labuhan. A few decades after colonization, the Sultan of Deli moved his capital to Sultangrond in Medan Putri. The move has led to significant changes in the role of the capital of the Sultanate of Deli. The following study aims to explain the changing role played by the capital of the Sultanate of Deli before and after the move. The results of the study are expected to contribute positively to knowledge about the history of sultanates in the archipelago. The method used in this study is the literature research method. The results of the study show that the sultanate capital in Labuhan played a more complex role than the capital in Sultandgrond. Labuhan not only served as the center of the Deli Sultanate's government but also as an economic center where the Deli export and import ports were also located. Meanwhile, after the move of the capital to Sultangrond in Medan, the capital of the Sultanate of Deli no longer played the role of an economic center as before.Keywords: Deli Sultanate, history of Islam, Labuhan, Sultangrond, East Coast of Sumatra ABSTRAKKesultanan Deli adalah sebuah kesultanan yang berada di kawasan Pantai Timur Sumatera yang dikolonisasi oleh Belanda sejak Tahun 1862. Sebelum di kolonisasi oleh Belanda, ibukota Kesultanan Deli berlokasi di sebuah kota tepian sungai yang bernama Labuhan. Beberapa dekade setelah kolonisasi, Sultan Deli memindahkan ibukotanya ke Sultangrond di Medan Putri. Pemindahan tersebut telah menyebabkan perubahan yang signifikan pada peran ibukota Kesultanan Deli. Kajian berikut ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan perubahan peranan yang dimainkan oleh ibukota Kesultanan Deli sebelum dan sesudah perpindahan. Hasil kajian sendiri diharapkan dapat berkontribusi positif dalam menyumbang pengetahuan mengenai sejarah kesultanan-kesultanan di Nusantara. Adapun metode yang dipergunakan dalam kajian ini adalah metode penelitian literatur. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahwa ibukota Kesultanan di Labuhan memainkan peran yang lebih kompleks daripada ibukota yang berada di Sultandgrond. Labuhan bukan hanya berperan sebagai pusat pemerintahan Kesultanan Deli melainkan juga pusat ekonomi dimana pelabuhan ekspor dan impor Deli juga berada disana. Sementara itu, setelah perpindahan ibukota ke Sultangrond di Medan, ibukota Kesultanan Deli tidak lagi memainkan peran sebagai pusat ekonomi seperti sebelumnya. Kata kunci: Kesultanan Deli, sejarah Islam, Labuhan, Sultangrond, Pantai Timur Sumatera
Comprehensibility at a Discourse / Text Level
Authors: Tavakoli Parvaneh , Cooke Sheryl
Published: February 2024

Spoken texts and the features associated with longer turns of monologic speech are the focus of this chapter. These typically include monologues such as presentations or speeches, narration and extended turns that might include characteristics of argumentation or description. Potentially impactful elements identified in the literature (e.g. Isaacs & Trofimovich, 2012) and in research are examined and, as in chapter 2, analysed from three perspectives: a) reported impact on comprehensibility b) how the features are reflected in rating scales c) impact of L1 discourse conventions on comprehensibility.
Comprehensibility at a Pragmatic Level
Authors: Tavakoli Parvaneh , Cooke Sheryl
Published: February 2024

This chapter focuses on the pragmatic aspect of comprehensibility, i.e., when the speaker’s sounds and words are clear, but their intended meaning is not because of their limited pragmatic knowledge. The discussions of this chapter will include the speaker’s perspective and highlights the dynamic nature of comprehensibility. After defining comprehensibility from a communication and intercultural perspective, the chapter will discuss the key aspects of pragmatic knowledge that affect comprehensibility. Summarising research in this area (e.g., Purpura, 2004; Rover, 2011, Taguchi, 2005, 2007, 2012) we will discuss issues such as use of formulaic expressions, implicatures and indirect speech acts as some potential areas in which comprehensibility issues arise. We will also focus on cultural norms and differences in pragmatic aspects of language use, e.g., politeness and backchannelling, that affect comprehensibility. More importantly, we will argue that to have a full understanding of the effects of pragmatic knowledge on comprehensibility, it is necessary to examine the speaker’s participation in extended discourse during both monologic and dialogic types of performance (Tavakoli, 2016; Tavakoli, 2018).
Appendix 4: Example of a Test Task
Authors: Tavakoli Parvaneh , Cooke Sheryl
Published: February 2024

Appendix 4: Example of a Test Task
References
Authors: Tavakoli Parvaneh , Cooke Sheryl
Published: February 2024

References
Comprehensibility in Language Assessment: A Broader Perspective
Authors: Tavakoli Parvaneh , Cooke Sheryl
Published: February 2024

Comprehensibility is considered central to successful communication (Munro & Derwing, 1995a, 2007). Yet, despite the crucial role it plays in communication and the contribution it makes towards the assessment of spoken language ability, comprehensibility has occupied an ambiguous position in language testing. At times, it is feature-driven, taking a linguistically-atomistic approach with little reference to context or communicative purpose, treating comprehensibility as an abstract construct made up only of linguistic components. At other times, the assessment of comprehensibility is an intuitive action, relying on a holistic sense of understanding by the assessor and rarely going beyond the speaker’s utterances to include listener characteristics. The lack of a perspective that encompasses broader linguistic and socio-pragmatic factors that contribute to achieving meaning in spoken language has motivated us to propose the current manuscript as an approach to understanding, defining and assessing comprehensibility. In this monograph, we argue that conceptualising comprehensibility as a multidimensional construct and adopting a broader perspective to understanding and analysing it for communication purposes would benefit the fields of second language assessment and second language acquisition.
Al-Tajârib wa al-Taḥadiyyât ‘inda Muta’allimi al-Lughah al-‘Arabiyyah fî âdâi Ikhtibar al-Lughah al-Mi’yârîy (TOAFL)
Authors: Rahman Aulia , Supriani Ria Rafita
Published: February 2024

Purpose- This study aims to describe the experience of STAIN Mandailing Natal Arabic students in taking the TOAFL test, both when taking the TOAFL exam and when doing TOAFL questions. This study also describes the challenges faced by students in taking the TOAFL test.
 Design/Methodology/Approach- The study used a qualitative approach based on analytical descriptive methods and used two data collection methods, namely questionnaires and interviews.
 Findings- In this study, it can be seen that (1) the average Arabic student is very happy when taking the toafl exam because it can measure their Arabic language skills and not all students are selected in participating in the activity, (2) in doing toafl questions there are difficulties, namely the audio istima is very fast so they cannot hear well and long qiraah questions make students become bored and panic. (3) The challenges faced by students are regarding timing, lack of practice, inadequate facilities and infrastructure and the atmosphere of the exam.
 Research Limitation/Implications- With the research, it is expected that all TOAFL organizers will see and pay attention to the factors that are difficulties and challenges in the TOAFL test, especially non-linear factors so that the implementation of the exam can be maximized
Penyelenggaraan Manajemen Mutu Pendidikan dalam Meningkatkan Kepercayaan Publik (Studi Kasus di SMAN 11 Yogyakarta)
Authors: Fawwaiz Aiz Affwa , Ulhaq M. Naufal Daffa , Permatasari Devi , Assidiqi Ahmad Kamal , Alfido Kevin , Himawan Daffa Alif Umar , Jannana Nora Saiva
Published: February 2024

Tercapainya pendidikan yang unggul tergantung pada sekolah yang memenuhi standar tertentu agar dapat terus beroperasi sebagai lembaga pendidikan. Dalam upaya membangun sekolah unggul, sekolah telah menerapkan sistem penjaminan mutu. Penelitian dilakukan di SMA Negeri 11 Yogyakarta. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana SMA Negeri 11 Yogyakarta mengelola sistem penjaminan mutunya. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk memberikan gambaran dan analisis pengelolaan Sistem penjaminan mutu di SMA Negeri 11 Yogyakarta. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian lapangan dengan menggunakan metodologi deskriptif kualitatif. Penulis mengunjungi beberapa situs di SMA Negeri 11 Yogyakarta untuk mewawancarai responden yang sesuai dengan kriteria narasumber guna mengumpulkan data deskriptif berupa kata-kata tertulis maupun lisan. Pengamatan, wawancara, dan dokumentasi digunakan sebagai metode pengumpulan data. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sistem manajemen penjaminan mutu SMA Negeri 11 berada pada kategori cukup. Dalam hal ini, kita dapat membedakan antara dua jenis sistem penjaminan mutu internal dan eksternal. Menurut kelemahannya, kepemimpinan, sumber daya manusia, dan infrastruktur semua pendukung mendukung dalam administrasi dan pelaksanaan sistem penjaminan mutu di SMA N 11 Yogyakarta.
Implementasi Strategi Diversifikasi di Lembaga Pendidikan Diniyyah Al Azhar (DIAZ) Jambi
Authors: Fadli M. Haikal , Widodo Rochmad , Yani Rendi M.
Published: February 2024

Diniyyah Al Azhar (DIAZ) Jambi merupakan salah satu lembaga pendidikan terbesar dan terlengkap di Provinsi Jambi yang manajemennya di bawah naungan Yayasan Pondok Pesantren Diniyyah (YPPD) Al Azhar Jambi. DIAZ Jambi dikatakan sebagai lembaga pendidikan terbesar karena memiliki tiga cabang, yaitu di Kota Jambi, Kabupaten Muara Bungo, dan Kabupaten Tebo. Adapun disebut terlengkap, karena memiliki jenjang pendidikan dari paling bawah (playgroup) hingga pendidikan tinggi (sekolah tinggi). Jika sebuah perusahaan, DIAZ Jambi sudah setingkat perusahaan korporasi. Karena itulah, manajemen pengembangannya pun menerapkan strategi tingkat korporasi, yaitu Strategi Diversifikasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif yang bersifat deskriptif, dengan tujuan: 1) Menjelaskan bagamana implementasi strategi diversifikasi di lembaga pendidikan yang dilakukan DIAZ Jambi, 2) Menjelaskan faktor-faktor yang menghambat strategi diversifikasi yang dilakukan DIAZ Jambi, dan 3). Solusi yang ditempuh dalam menyelesaikan hambatan tersebut.
Manajemen Asesmen Nasional Berbasis Komputer (ANBK) Jenjang SMA/ SMK Dinas Pendidikan Jawa Timur
Authors: Ahmad Fauzi  , Milla Rohmatul Azizah  , Arina Ayu Fitrotin  , Dewi Tsamrotul
Published: February 2024

Pelaksanaan Asesmen Nasional Berbasis Komputer (ANBK) sebagai upaya proses evaluasi pendidikan diperlukan kontinuitas dalam peningkatan sistem manajemennya, terciptanya efektifitas dan efisiensi proses evaluasi pendidikan mampu meningkatkan kualitas pendidikan melalui proses penilaian yang komprehensif. Penelitian ini mengkaji implementasi ANBK di tingkat SMA/SMK Jawa Timur, mengidentifikasi manfaat, faktor penghambat dan pendukung, serta menganalisis potensi kendala yang mungkin muncul selama implementasi ANBK. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian deskriptif kualitatif, dengan penggalian data yang dilakukan melalui observasi langsung, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Manajemen pelaksanaan dalam ANBK di dinas pendidikan Jawa Timur menerapkan 4 sistem manajerial POAC (Planning, Organizing, Actuating dan Controlling) mulai dari persiapan tim di dinas Pendidikan, pengarahan kepada setiap daerah untuk pemrograman ANBK, pengarahan administrasi data dari peserta ANBK dan menyebarkan survey lingkungan belajar agar hasil dari diadakannya ANBK dapat dengan maksimal, serta adanya evaluasi atau pengontrolan dari dinas Pendidikan kepada sekolah yang menjadi sampling disetiap daerah. Sehingga, diketahui bahwa 75% sekolah-sekolah binaan dinas pendidikan Jawa Timur jenjang SMA/SMK tahun 2023 telah menyelenggarakan pelaksanaan ANBK dengan baik
TAREKAT AND THE ISLAMIC MODERATION CAMPAIGN ON DIGITAL MEDIA: A Critical Study of JATMAN’s Site at Jatman.or.id Site
Authors: Khodijah Khodijah
Published: February 2024

This article discusses the activity of Jam‘iyyah Ahli al-Tarīqah al-Mu‘tabarah al-Nahdiyyah (JATMAN) in promulgating Islamic moderation on digital media. Given the swift flow of narratives of radicalism that has spread to various corners of the archipelago, an alternative contribution from the Sufi order (tarekat) is necessary regarding the scheme and model of mainstreaming Islamic moderation on the digital realm in order to deal with this problem. This research focuses on the Islamic moderation found at JATMAN’s official website, namely jatman.or.id. The research employs a qualitative approach which examines documents, manuscripts, audio-visual, and other authoritative sources. The collected data is analyzed and described descriptively and narratively. To enrich the method, Marshall McLuhan’s mass media theory is also used. This study reveals that the mainstreaming model of Islamic moderation found at jatman.or.id. is formatted in the presentation of short articles and short video recordings that emphasize the insistence of moderate Islam and its applicability with the Sufism. In addition, viewed from Marshall McLuhan’s theory it is also found that JATMAN has creatively implemented certain formula to make the dissemination of Islamic moderation more efficient and attractive using its own website, i.e. Jatman.or.id. It seems that the existence of Islamic moderation campaign of JATMAN will continue along with the existence of the Jatman.or.id to deliver messages of peaceful Islam.
Islamic Pacifism: An Ethico-Theological Examination of Peace and Nonviolence in Islam
Authors: Abdulaev Sabina
Published: February 2024

Islam calls for the avoidance of violence, if possible, or at least its minimization and use only as the last resort. The purpose of this study is to highlight the roots of pacifism in Islam; the primary sources studied are the main Muslim theological texts—the Qur’an and Sunnah (the Prophetic tradition). After analyzing these two sources, I claim that Islam and ‘devout pacifism’ are compatible. Islam calls Muslims to be faithful, decent, and good human beings, who respect the life and property of others, Muslim and non-Muslim. A model of the devout Muslim pacifist is not different from the universal model, but similar to that found in other civilizations and cultures. According to both sources, Islamic pacifism derives from human obedience to Allah, just as in other monotheistic religions that promote peaceful solutions to internal and external crises, domestic and foreign. This paper offers a new perspective on nonviolence in Islam, ethico-theological justification of war, and applications of jihad and violence as factors in managing political relations among Muslims and between Muslims and non-Muslims.
Cytokine profile in patients with vibration disease, aggravated by hypertension and obesity
Authors: Chistova N. P. , Bodienkova G. M.
Published: February 2024

Comorbid diseases which include arterial hypertension (AH) accompanied by overweight, and vibration disease (VD) are known to contribute to the mutual aggravation of occupational and cardiovascular pathology. Despite numerous studies indicating that some changes of immune system are observed when exposed to vibration, the contribution of cytokines to the comorbid course of vibration disease has not been sufficiently studied. The aim of the work is to evaluate the role of inflammatory mediators in development of hypertension and obesity in vibration disease.

The cytokine profile parameters were determined by ELISA immunoassay using “Vector-Best” test systems. Some unidirectional changes in serum cytokine concentrations were found in patients with VD complicated

by AH, and those with VD without AH, being characterized by increase in pro-inflammatory IL-1β, TNFα, IL-17, anti-inflammatory IL-4 and IFNγ, and a decrease in multifunctional IL-2 cytokinem, relative to the comparison group. The groups with versus without AH differed in compensatory increase of anti-inflammatory IL-10 in the latter group. At the same time, all patients with combined VD and AH had excessive body weight, with grade 1 obesity in half of the cases, thus being significantly different from those with VD without AH. It is shown that IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, TNFα play an apparent role in the development of obesity. The greatest contribution is observed for IL-1β, as evidenced by the quantitative relationship of body mass index with its concentrations as assessed by logistic regression analysis. The limitation of this study may be a small sample size.

It was found that the unidirectional changes in cytokines when compared to the comparison group were revealed in patients with VD complicated by AH, and in patients with VD without AH. In the subjects with VD and AH, these changes were more pronounced, which may suggest the hypertension is an aggravating factor. The established relationship between individual cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, TNFα) and BMI indicates their participation in development of obesity. All these findings may provide a basis for development of preventive and therapeutic measures that reduce the risk of hypertension and obesity in the people working under permanent exposure of vibration.
Problems of applying inflammatory markers to diagnostics of anemia of chronic disease in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Musina N. N. , Prokhorenko T. S. , Saprina T. V. , Zima A. P.
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the severity of changes in the values of markers-candidates for the differential diagnosis of anemia of chronic diseases in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The total number of leukocytes, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, content of C-reactive protein, TNFa, ferritin and hepcidin were evaluated. 50 people with type 1 diabetes mellitus and 81 people with type 2 diabetes mellitus were examined. The diagnosis of anemia was established on the basis of data on the level of hemoglobin, the content of erythrocytes in the blood, ferritin and serum iron. Next, the type of anemic syndrome was determined. The patients were divided into groups: 14 patients with diabetes mellitus and anemia of chronic diseases, 15 people with diabetes mellitus and iron deficiency anemia, 38 patients with diabetes with latent iron deficiency and 64 patients with diabetes mellitus without anemia. The comparison group consisted of 17 healthy volunteers. It was shown that in the general sample of patients with diabetes mellitus anemia of chronic diseases was distinguished only by the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which was higher than in iron deficiency anemia, latent iron deficiency and in patients without anemia. The severity of inflammation in diabetic patients was analyzed depending on its type. The concentration of hepcidin in the blood of diabetic patients, regardless of type, exceeded its content in the blood of healthy individuals. Elevated serum concentrations of TNFα were characteristic of inflammation in type 1 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus type 2 was characterized by an increase in: erythrocyte sedimentation rate - relatively healthy individuals; concentrations of C-reactive protein - in comparison with healthy volunteers and patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus; ferritin levels compared with patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Taking into account the type of diabetes and the type of iron metabolism disorder, it was found that in type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, only the erythrocyte sedimentation rate in patients with anemia of chronic diseases was significantly higher than in patients with iron deficiency anemia and without anemia. The article discusses the reasons for the difficulties in using inflammatory markers (ferritin and hepcidin) as parameters for verifying anemia of chronic diseases in patients with diabetes mellitus. It is pointed out that it is necessary to take into account the differences in the mechanisms of inflammation development in type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus when trying to use cytokines and C-reactive protein as additional diagnostic markers in practice. The rationale is given for the prospects of determining the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, with the recommendation of a certain threshold value, for the detection of anemia of chronic diseases in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Effect of a pyrimidine derivative on the level of cytokines in conditions of streptococcal wound infection
Authors: Tsibizova A. A. , Yasenyavskaya A. L. , Tyurenkov I. N. , Ozerov A. A. , Samotrueva M. A.
Published: February 2024

Diseases caused by Streptococcus pyogenes are one of the significant problems of practical health care, due to the ability of this pathogen to cause morbidity in all age groups of the population with the development of different complications. The streptococcal infection is accompanied, along with infectious and inflammatory symptoms, by a pronounced immune response to Streptococcus pyogenes, which is mediated by the functional activity of monocytes and dendritic cells responsible for the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines that regulate the interaction, proliferation and functional activity of all participants in the cellular and humoral links of immunity. The purpose is to study the effect of a pyrimidine derivative on the level of pro- (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8) and anti-inflammatory interleukins (IL-4, IL-10) in conditions of experimental streptococcal wound infection. The study of the effect of the pyrimidine derivative 3-[2-[(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl) amino]-2-oxoethyl]quinazolin-4(3H)-one was carried out in vivo on the model streptococcal wound infection. The experiments were carried out on CBA mice 3 months old (20-22 g). Animals were divided into groups: control I–healthy animals, which were injected with water for injection; control II–infected untreated animals; experience I – animals that were treated intraperitoneally with a pyrimidine derivative at a dose of 36 mg/kg for 7 days, starting from the first day of infection; experiment II – animals that were treated intraperitoneally with the reference drug cefepime at an average therapeutic dose of 50 mg/kg in the same regimen as the test compound. The levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory interleukins in blood serum were determined by enzyme immunoassay. The study found that the pyrimidine derivative 3-[2-[(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl)amino]-2-oxoethyl]quinazolin-4(3H)-one under conditions of streptococcal wound infection has an immunoregulatory effect, manifested in a decrease in pro-inflammatory and an increase in anti-inflammatory interleukins.
Experience of cytokine therapy in the treatment of recurrent cervical cancer
Authors: Bykova E. A. , Falaleeva N. A. , Myalina S. A. , Shegai P. V. , Grivtsova L. Yu.
Published: February 2024

Cervical cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the female genital organs. In general, the prognosis in patients with advanced cervical cancer is unfavorable. The option of choice for stage IV of the disease and relapses is systemic platinum-containing chemotherapy. Its effectiveness is about 20-26%, life expectancy is 12 to 13 months. Undoubtedly, the search and development of new methods of treating this disease is an extremely urgent task. Immuno-oncology has emerged as a potential new strategy to improve the treatment outcomes of patients with malignant neoplasms. Much attention in research is focused on the opportunity of using interleukin-2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) for tumor immunotherapy, since these cytokines play a special role in antitumor protection. Due to the active search for new hybrid molecules based on TNFα, some domestically developed recombinant antitumor drugs are implicated into modern practice of clinical oncologists, in particular, “Refnot” (TNFα-thymosin-α1) and “Ingaron” (IFNγ preparation). We analyzed the result of combined treatment (standard polychemotherapy at the 1st line augmented with cytokinotherapy including Refnot + Ingaron therapy) in one patient with recurrent cervical cancer. According to the control examination, upon completion of the polychemotherapy course, a complete tumor response was registered according to the Recist 1.1 criteria. The patient continued to receive cytokines as supporting therapy. Currently, according to control quarterly examinations, a complete regression of recurrent tumor persists from the end of polychemotherapy to 28 months of observation. One should note that when monitoring the state of the immune system during therapy with Refnot and Ingaron, we noted an increase in absolute and relative numbers of T cells to normal levels along with higher cytotoxic and antitumor potential of NK cells without increasing their number. The patient well tolerates the therapy, improved quality of life is documented, and there are no clinically significant side effects. Hence, the therapy with “Refnot” (TNFα-thymosin-α1) and “Ingaron” (IFNγ) in this clinical case proved to be a safe method of maintenance therapy with a positive therapeutic effect thus allowing effective control of recurrent cervical cancer for more than 2 years, as well as significantly improve quality of life of the patient. This type of therapy may be recommended for usage in clinical oncology.
Features of innate immunity in children with hypertrophy of the palatine tonsils
Authors: Grankovsky V. A. , Karpova E. P. , Gankovskaya L. V. , Avalyan Ya. S. , Merkusheva E. D. , Zinina E. V.
Published: February 2024

Hypertrophy of pharyngeal lymphoid tissue is among the most common problems in pediatric otorhinolaryngology, in particular, hypertrophy of the palatine tonsils. This disorder is characterized by increased size of a single or both palatine tonsils combined with various clinical symptoms. The principles of treatment in children with this pathology remain debatable, since the long-term effects of bilateral tonsillotomy are still not fully understood. The aim of the study was to assess the expression levels of genes encoding the innate immunity molecules (TLR4, HBD1, HBD2, IL1β) in the mucous membranes of palatine tonsils in children with palatine tonsillitis before and after treatment.

We conducted a study of 78 patients divided into three independent groups. The 1st group (comparison) included 20 somatically healthy children. The 2nd group included 28 children with grade 2 palatine tonsil hypertrophy who underwent local treatment. The 3rd group included 30 children with grade 3 hypertrophy of the palatine tonsils, who, by clinical indications, underwent bilateral tonsillotomy. Determination and evaluation of innate immunity indices was carried out both before starting the treatment, and one month later, using the real-time PCR method.

In children with hypertrophy of palatine tonsils, the initial values of TLR4 gene expression and antimicrobial peptides differed from those of healthy children. A decreased expression of HBD1 and HBD2 genes, which provide immediate protection against pathogens, was revealed. The values of TLR4 gene expression differed in groups of children with varying degrees of palatine tonsillar hypertrophy. In patients with bilateral tonsillotomy, an increased expression of TLR4 gene and a decreased expression of antimicrobial peptide genes (HBD1, HBD2) were revealed, which may indicate a readiness for development of tonsillar inflammation in response to pathogens. One month after surgical treatment, the indices of innate immunity were comparable with those of healthy children thus confirming the validity of surgical treatment. In the 2nd group of patients, the TLR4 gene expression one month after conservative treatment remained reduced, the expression of β-defensin HBD1 gene increased and exceeded the indicators of the group of healthy children, the expression level of the IL-1β gene was reduced.

The revealed imbalance between the TLR4, HBD1 and HBD2 expression levels confirms an important role of innate immunity mechanisms in pathogenesis of palatine tonsillitis. The assessment of innate immunity indices may be used as an additional criterion in administration of therapy for hypertrophy of palatine tonsils and evaluation of its efficiency.
Features of the immune status and comorbidities in children with alopecia areata
Authors: Shtina I. E. , Osheva L. V. , Ermakova O. V. , Matyanina A. I.
Published: February 2024

Increased incidence of alopecia has been noted in children at the present time. Participation of autoimmune (immunopathological) mechanisms in pathogenesis of this disease necessitates additional study of immune status and characteristics of comorbid pathologies. The aim of our study was to specify the features of immune status and comorbidities in children with alopecia areata. The observation group consisted of children with various types of alopecia areata (n = 57), a comparison group included children without clinical manifestations of alopecia or a history of alopecia (n = 157). We performed a comparative evaluation of major lymphocyte subpopulations (CD3+, CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD8+, CD3+CD19+), interleukins (IL-4, IL-6), immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, IgG), parameters of phagocytic activity (absolute phagocytosis, percentage of phagocytosis, phagocytic number and phagocytic index) and IgE to house dust and cat hair. Analysis of comorbidities was also performed. Statistical processing was carried out with Jamovi software. We have found that the focal clinical form of alopecia prevailed over the subtotal and total forms by 1.8 times (p = 0.033) in the observation group rather than in comparison group, with common variable immunodeficiency being more often (1.4-fold), chronic tonsillitis (3.9-fold), allergic rhinitis (3.9-fold) and autoimmune thyroiditis, which was absent in the comparison group. Among the children with alopecia, disturbances of the T-cell link were revealed, i.e., a higher median levels of the relative and absolute numbers of CD3+CD4+ cells (p = 0.001 to 0.003), larger proportions of elevated values for IgA (4.1-fold), IgM (7.3-fold), IgG (13.2-fold) with p-levels of 0.0001 to 0.0008; increased IL-4 (8.1-fold) and IL-6 (4.6-fold), with p = 0.002-0.004, along with medium and relatively strong correlations with alopecia. In children with alopecia, we have determined a 3.3-fold proportion of reduced values of absolute phagocytosis and 3.7-fold reduced percentage of phagocytosis (p = 0.0012 to 0.028), with an sufficient correlation (weak to moderate strength) with alopecia, as well as lower values of the median phagocytic index and phagocytic number in the observation group (p < 0.001) associated with a average-strength correlation. Hence, an imbalance of the immune system components was revealed in children with alopecia which manifested with signs of immune hyperfunction, characteristic, e.g., of autoimmune and allergic processes, accompanied by more frequent registration of autoimmune thyroiditis and allergic rhinitis. Moreover, distinct signs of immune deficiency, are found, characterized by a decrease in phagocytic activity and higher incidence of common variable immunodeficiency and chronic tonsillitis.
Immunomodulatory and regenerative potentials of breast milk, prematurity and children’s heart
Authors: Pavlyukova E. N. , Kolosova M. V. , Neklyudova G. V. , Karpov R. S.
Published: February 2024

Recent expansion of fundamental knowledge on the physiology of lactation, and breast milk exosomes, stem cell biology, mother-child interactions from prenatal period to postnatal development requires a progressive, dynamic view from the scientific community and practicing physicians when analyzing known, generally accepted clinical phenomena and patterns (development of the immune system of infants and young children, natural and artificial feeding, features of postnatal development and growth of organs and tissues in children born prematurely). The components of the mother-breast-milk-infant triad are closely related to each other and influence developmental trajectory of the infant. According to modern concepts, breast milk of a nursing woman is a “living, metabolic / endocrine signaling system”, which may be considered an “immune organ” significant for postnatal growth and body programming of a premature baby. A valuable phenomenon of early postnatal development is actively discussed in the special literature, i,e., “microchimerism” caused by breastfeeding which, according to modern concepts, may play a key role in development of immune system and the whole body. Absence of protective (immunomodulatory and regenerative) effects of breast milk from a nursing woman on the spontaneous, uncorrectable impact of adverse factors of prematurity is likely predispose for remodeling and dysfunction of heart in prematurely born children, and, at longer range, in adults. The young children born prematurely show a unique cardiac phenotype characterized by reduced biventricular volume, relatively lower systolic and diastolic function, disproportionate muscle mass gain, clinically manifesting by increased risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and decreased exercise tolerance. Hence, the premature birth may be considered a chronic disease state. Therefore, the natural feeding which provides a natural evolutionarily protective mechanism for the child’s heart should be attributed to the fundamental factors that play a vital role in prevention of cardiovascular diseases in prematurely born children and at later life periods.
MicroRNA of extracellular vesicles as biomarkers and regulators of pathological and physiological processes
Authors: Markova K. L. , Zementova M. S. , Vashukova E. S. , Pereviazkina M. A. , Selkov S. A. , Sokolov D. I.
Published: February 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EV) are currently considered potential biomarkers of diseases, as well as “biological constructs” for targeted drug delivery. Extracellular vesicles represent a heterogeneous population of membrane vesicles formed by various cell populations, including immune cells. At present time, EV are divided into exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, depending on their size and formation manner. EV have been found in various human biological fluids. Therefore, the possibility of their usage as diagnostic biomarkers is under discussion. The vesicles have a diverse internal composition and express a wide repertoire of receptors on their surface, thus allowing them to participate in different intercellular communications by transferring to the cells various molecules, including genetic material. E.g., microRNAs transmitted via extracellular vesicles are evolutionarily conserved non-coding RNA molecules 18-25 nucleotides long. Their main function is to regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. MicroRNAs are synthesized by different cell types. However, some microRNAs are found ubiquitously, whereas others are present only in certain types of tissues. MicroRNAs are found both inside, and outside the cells (extracellular or circulating microRNAs). The microRNAs are resistant to RNases and stable in the extracellular environment, due to their secretion as protein complexes, or as part of extracellular vesicles. The variable microRNA profile in extracellular vesicles depends on the physiological conditions and presence of various pathological disorders. Multiple studies show that microRNAs can determine the functional activity of extracellular vesicles, e.g., therapeutic usage of microRNAs carried by EV as well as diagnostic applications in various pathologies. This review considers distinct populations of extracellular vesicles and their main properties, describes the characteristics of intra- and extracellular (circulating) microRNAs, mechanisms of their biosynthesis, and techniques for detection and assessing contents of microRNAs. The review describes microRNAs as a component of exosomes and microvesicles formed by various cells, including cells of the immune system in the course of physiological and pathological processes, with respect to functions of these microRNAs as well as their diagnostic and therapeutic potential.
Inducing role of thymus in the body’s ageing process
Authors: Kozlov V. A.
Published: February 2024

The ageing process should be considered with respect to all homeostatic systems of the body, their importance for the existence of the organism itself and different timing of their switching-on in the process of age-related changes. An attention should be paid to the literature data on age-related changes in the functional activity of immune system, which starts from almost zero at birth, reaches a maximum at the age of about 40-50 years and significantly decreases during the natural ageing process. The vast majority of most socially significant diseases of modern humans are reasonably associated with this last stage of age-related changes in the functional activity of the immune system. So far, there is probably no consensus on whether ageing is a disease, or not a disease, but just a kind of natural wear of the “biological machine”. In any case, one should emphasize that thymic gland is one of the first organs where negative age-related changes are revealed, one of the two central organs of the immune system. Bone marrow is the second central immune organ. Age-related changes in the thymus are not “all or nothing”, “now or never”, they are normally characterized by a gradual decrease of the cell production and changes in their qualitative characteristics, which undoubtedly result into some negative effects upon the indices of immune system activity. There is a need to develop new approaches towards the assessment of functional parameters of the thymus, highlighting the search for therapeutic approaches that would maintain functional activity of the immune system at a high level.
Shift in Marx and Engels’ historical materialism perspective
Authors: Shen Jirui
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Marx and Engels were not born as natural historical materialists, and their historical materialism arose on the basis of criticizing Hegelian idealism and Feuerbachian humanistic materialism. In The German Ideology, they first expounded the concept of historical materialism and systematically and elaborately discussed its basic principles, thereby realizing a great transformation in the history of philosophy. This paper selected Marx and Engels’ criticism of Feuerbachian humanistic materialism to illustrate their transcendence of Feuerbach and the birth of historical materialism, thus deepening our understanding of this issue.
Exploring the data turn of philosophy of language in the era of big data
Authors: Xu Shasha , Yang Qian
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Collection of data in our Information Technology age caused a revolution in knowledge. The unprecedented growth of data in the big data era has necessitated changes in the scale, nature, and status of data, leading researchers to adopt new paradigms and methodologies in philosophical research. In particular, the theoretical focus of philosophy of language shifted towards cognitive knowledge, with an emphasis on the proposition of data turn in cognitive cognition in the era of big data. The paper explores the potential scope for quantitative research on the data turn of philosophy of language by examining the need for transforming qualitative and quantitative research paradigms, by reconstructing the quantitative approach to philosophy of language, and by expanding human-data relations in the philosophy of big data. The paper concludes that there is the necessity for further research to examine the relationship between language, data and philosophy.
A study of Paul Lengrand’s philosophy of lifelong physical education
Authors: Weng Shiyang , Li Ang , Li Pengcheng
Published: February 2024

Abstract: By employing a combination of literature review and logical induction, Paul Lengrand’s lifelong writings regarding philosophy of physical education were methodically gathered, classified and synopsized. An astute analysis has indicated that Paul Lengrand’s lifelong perspective on philosophy of physical education was shaped, in no small measure, by his singular historical context, societal exigencies, and personal encounters. Moreover, it has been revealed that his outlook on philosophy of physical education was an extension of his ardent commitment to lifelong education philosophy, while simultaneously enhancing and refining it. Physical education and sports are important contents of lifelong physical education. Sports should not be seen as a muscle activity, but should be combined with the current situation, morality and art, and the period should be integrated with lifelong education. Centered unequivocally around embracing physical exercise across all junctures of human existence, physical education was regarded as an indispensable dimension of life that exemplifies the durability, gradual progression, and comprehensiveness of lifelong physical education philosophy.
Chinese cultural landscapes: from the ideal of a balanced bond between humans and nature to ecological forms of life
Authors: Xu Yan
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Thus far, human development has been achieved at the cost of the destruction of cultural landscapes. With advent of industrial civilization, people have gained happiness and conveniences, but also confronted various cultural landscape predicaments. Environmental philosophy, a contemporary philosophy that regards the relationship between humans and nature as a fundamental issue, has focused on the protection of cultural landscapes. An analysis of ancient Chinese environmental philosophy demonstrates that ancient thinkers cared about everything in heaven and earth, and explored issues, such as a harmonious development between humans and nature, offering a novel approach to the preservation of Chinese cultural landscapes. Using Taoist environmental philosophy as an exemplar, this article provides a preliminary analysis of the definition of cultural landscapes, development of environmental philosophy and Taoist environmental philosophy. Building upon this foundation, it explores the role of environmental philosophies, such as “unity of heaven and man” in construction of ecological civilization, providing fresh perspectives for cultural landscape conservation.
Artéria ulnar superficial diagnosticada por ultrassom vascular: relato de caso
Authors: França Mariana Jordão , Takahashi Luciana Akemi , França Graciliano José , Ferreira Luiz Fernando Tosi
Published: February 2024

Resumo O maior ramo da divisão terminal da artéria braquial é a artéria ulnar, que se origina após a fossa cubital. Essa artéria usualmente tem trajeto profundo aos músculos do antebraço anterior e é responsável pela vascularização da musculatura superficial e profunda da região ulnar do antebraço e hipotênar da mão, sendo a principal responsável pela formação do arco palmar superficial após o retináculo dos flexores. Reportamos uma variação anatômica após diagnóstico com ultrassom vascular na qual a artéria ulnar situava-se em posição superficial no antebraço. A ocorrência da artéria ulnar superficial é rara, porém de grande importância para clínicos, cirurgiões e profissionais de enfermagem.
Sexual dysfunction after open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: 16 years’ experience in a quaternary center and literature review
Authors: Schmid Bruno Pagnin , Muce Marcelo Vezzi , Bocos Rodrigo Gonzalez , Menezes Fábio Hüsemann
Published: February 2024

Abstract Background Open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair can lead to sexual dysfunction (SD) in men. Objectives To determine the prevalence of SD following open AAA repair, explore whether surgical techniques for aortic reconstruction can have a differential impact on the occurrence of SD, and summarize current knowledge in this field. Methods Retrospective review of 100 patients submitted to open AAA repair between 1995 and 2010 in a quaternary center. Sexual dysfunction was assessed according to questions from the modified International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), considering the condition before surgical repair and 3 months after surgery. The chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Student’s t test were used for statistical analyses. Results 100 patients were included (mean age = 66.4 years old). Normal sexual activity, no sexual activity, erectile dysfunction, and retrograde ejaculation with preserved erectile function were found in 36%, 21%, 18%, and 24% of patients, respectively. The group of patients with no sexual activity was older (mean age = 72.3 years old vs 64.5 years old, p < 0.001). Erectile dysfunction prevalence was higher in patients submitted to an aorto-bifemoral bypass (p = 0.032). Retrograde ejaculation was more frequent in patients submitted to an aorto-aortic bypass (p = 0.007). Conclusions Sexual function is a frequent condition intimately associated with the aortic reconstruction technique. The literature review found contradictory results regarding whether the endovascular approach is protective compared with open repair, but clearly demonstrated the importance of techniques targeting preservation of the internal iliac artery and the superior hypogastric plexus.
Uma medida do nível socioeconômico das escolas brasileiras utilizando indicadores primários e secundários
Authors: Soares José Francisco , Alves Maria Teresa Gonzaga
Published: February 2024

Este artigo apresenta uma medida do nível socioeconômico (NSE) de quase todas as escolas brasileiras. Indicadores primários – calculados com dados de questionários respondidos pelos estudantes nas avaliações educacionais – e indicadores secundários – que caracterizam o contexto social das escolas – foram agregados em uma escala de NSE por meio de um modelo da Teoria de Resposta ao Item. O NSE foi calculado para mais de 180 mil escolas. A metodologia deu visibilidade às escolas pequenas ou de áreas remotas que, até então, eram invisíveis para as políticas públicas, uma vez que elas não participam das avaliações educacionais. A relação entre resultados educacionais e o NSE representa as desigualdades do país. O NSE das escolas tem utilidade para a pesquisa acadêmica e potencial para contribuir com o aperfeiçoamento das políticas públicas que visam a reduzir as desigualdades educacionais.
Judicialização baseada em evidências? O uso do conhecimento científico nas decisões do STF durante a pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: Lui Lizandro , Madeira Lígia Mori , Camara Lilian Rita Macedo Zorzetti
Published: February 2024

Este artigo analisa como o uso de evidências científicas foi instrumentalizado pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF) no julgamento das ações sobre as políticas de combate à Covid-19. Conceitualmente, relaciona dois campos de estudos: judicialização das políticas públicas e políticas públicas baseadas em evidências. Partiu-se da coleta de ações de controle de constitucionalidade (ADIs e ADPFs) envolvendo os temas concorrentes da Covid-19 e de saúde, chegando a um universo de 46 ações, dentre as quais 25 são ADIs e 21 são ADPFs. Identificou-se que os ministros do STF, na tentativa de constranger as iniciativas levadas a cabo pelo Poder Executivo federal, passaram a utilizar o conhecimento científico como um operador argumentativo para legitimar suas decisões e se contrapor à postura entendida como negacionista do Presidente da República. Conclui-se a respeito da necessidade de mais estudos sobre como os ministros do STF fundamentam suas decisões e utilizam conhecimento científico de outras áreas, além do direito.