bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal stability of Na3-xV2(PO4)2F3-yOy: influence of F- for O2- substitution and degradation mechanisms
Authors: PABLOS Chloé , OLCHOWKA Jacob , PETIT Emmanuel , Minart Gaël , Duttine Mathieu , Weill François , masquelier christian , Carlier Dany , CROGUENNEC Laurence
Published: March 2023

The Na-ion battery technology appears as a reliable, sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to the Li-ion one, especially for stationary energy storage. As for the Li-ion technology, safety aspect is of high importance to ensure large-scale development. In this work, we studied the thermal stability and decomposition mechanisms of carbon-coated Na3V2(PO4)2F3 and two fluorine-rich phases belonging to the solid-solution Na3V3+2-yV4+y(PO4)2F3-yOy (y = 0.07 and y = 0.12), that family of compounds being often considered among the most promising positive electrode materials for Na-ion batteries. This study shows the good thermal stability of these polyanionic materials and reveals that a low O2- for F- substitution has a very limited effect on the thermal stability of fully re-intercalated materials recovered in the discharged state of the battery, whereas it has a beneficial impact for highly de-intercalated ones, obtained by in-depth charges. Furthermore, whatever the state of charge and the oxygen content in NaxV2(PO4)2F3-yOy (1<=x<=3 and y = 0, 0.07 and 0.12), the thermal degradation leads, quite unexpectedly, to the formation of crystalline Na3V3+2(PO4)2F3 in addition to an amorphous phase. The fluorination of the partially oxygen for fluorine substituted material was clearly demonstrated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and solid state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) on materials recovered after differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses. The formation of a fully sodiated crystalline phase from the thermal degradation of the material obtained in charged states of the battery, with or without presence of electrolyte, was never reported before.
A protocol for single nucleus RNA-seq from frozen skeletal muscle
Authors: Soule Tyler GB , Pontifex Carly S , Rosin Nicole , Joel Matthew M , Lee Sukyoung , Nguyen Minh Dang , Chhibber Sameer , Pfeffer Gerald
Published: March 2023

Single-cell technologies are a method of choice to obtain vast amounts of cell-specific transcriptional information under physiological and diseased states. Myogenic cells are resistant to single-cell RNA sequencing because of their large, multinucleated nature. Here, we report a novel, reliable, and cost-effective method to analyze frozen human skeletal muscle by single-nucleus RNA sequencing. This method yields all expected cell types for human skeletal muscle and works on tissue frozen for long periods of time and with significant pathological changes. Our method is ideal for studying banked samples with the intention of studying human muscle disease.
The Ukrainian Emigration in Interwar Czechoslovaczczyna and the issue of Personal Finance (1918 - 1939)
Authors: Zubko Olga
Published: March 2023

The aim of the study. Analysis of legal ways of solving financial issues by Ukrainian emigrants in interwar Czechoslovaczczyna; characteristics of the main financial emigration expenses.

The research methodology is based on the principles of a specifically historical, problem-chronological approach, methods of objectivity, integrity, analysis and synthesis.

The scientific novelty of the study consists in highlighting the topic of private finances of Ukrainian emigrants through the prism and perspective of the functioning of the Czechoslovak crown.

Conclusions. The issue of private finances was very important in the life of the Ukrainian emigration in interwar Czechoslovakia (this is approximately 20,000 people). The subsistence emigration minimum in interwar Czechoslovaczczyna was 1000‑1200 Czechoslovak crowns, i.e. an average of 29 dollars 60 cents ($30). And the «Russian Aid Action» was only one of the sources of legal income. Therefore, when the exchange rate of the Czechoslovak krone was stabilized in 1923 ˗ 1933, such as 100:2.96 or 100:3. Ukrainians had to earn money by exchanging currencies, thanks to their hobbies, working in restaurants (for musicians) and often had to be unskilled workers. A significant part of private finances was spent on paying for housing, food, clothes, shoes, transportation costs. Much less money was spent on buying books and cigarettes. Almost no money was spent on movies, theaters and excursions.
Can Geneva Survive Astana?
Authors:   ,   Lebanese American University, Tutkal Ferhat
Published: March 2023

Despite 12 years of violence and numerous attempts to end the conflict, the Syrian conflict stands among the largest humanitarian crises of the twenty-first century. Currently, there are two peacemaking interventions: the United Nations-backed Geneva process and Iran, Russia, and Turkey-sponsored Astana. By the initiation of the Astana process, the UN lost its monopoly in peacemaking, and its legitimacy as a mediator started to decrease gradually. Eventually, the UN's peacemaking in Syria became paralyzed, and UN mediation passed the point of credibility. This study focuses on the reasons for this state of paralysis by analyzing the structural challenges within and outside of the United Nations. This study defines four credibility-undermining indicators specific to the UN mediation in Syria, namely, a) fragmented Security Council, b) Geneva's sidelining by Astana and subsequent loss of leverage, c) parties' noncompliance with mediators' initiatives and minimal progress, and lastly, d) lack of accountability in the face of mass atrocity crimes. This research will examine all the factors causing the credibility loss of Geneva starting from the initiation of the Astana process in January 2017. The study aims to show that the initiation of the Astana format, which was the manifestation of geopolitical interest clashes between major powers, overshadowed and absorbed the UN's role in peacemaking.
The Contribution of Syrian Workers to Lebanon’s Agricultural Sector. (c2022)
Authors:   ,   Lebanese American University, El-Kadiri Inass
Published: March 2023

This research seeks to look into a different public perception of the large community of Syrian agricultural laborers in a northeastern Beqaa village, away from the populist perception. Too often issues of migration, economics, and nationality coalesce to produce an impression of Syrian labor as a burden and a cost to the economy, operating at the expense of the Lebanese. By focusing on the northeast Beqaa region as a prime example of Syrian labor participation, we notice that contrary to popular perceptions, Syrian labor and the regional economy are perceived by different population categories as intrinsically linked by historical and structural factors that long predate the Syrian war and the refugee crisis. Furthermore, an examination of the role of labor in the value chain of the Lebanese agricultural sector in the village of El-Qaa prompts us to re-assess conventional notions of borders, nationality, and the national economy in the Lebanese context.
Design and Implementation of an Automatic Electrical Motor Protection
Authors: Mtunzi Busiso , Gavhu Tinashe Shelton , Nyathi Zedekia Madumbu , Gonye Reginald , Mugarsanwa Fidelis Nhenga
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this paper was to design and implement an automatic motor protection system prototype. The system designed made use of sensors to measure and provide protection to the motors against temperature, overcurrent, overvoltage and under voltage using an arduino as the controller. Units to monitor temperature, overcurrent, overvoltage and under-voltages were designed and integrated. The temperature and current tolerance of the motor were set at 50ºC and 0.26A respectively. The system could respond accordingly to temperature and current changes by way of stopping the motor when set conditions were exceeded. The data measured was stored on a memory card and could be retrieved at any time to analyse the induction motor behaviour. The system if incorporated on motors, could minimize potential damages to electric motors’ windings, hence reducing electric motor maintenance costs for companies.
From Sustainable Engineering Education to Knowledge Transfer: A Preview
Authors: Bheekhun Nadiir , Talib Abd Rahim Abu
Published: March 2023

Science, as discovery, reminds us to praise the Creator for the divine, implausible, magnificent beauty and intricacy of His Creations. Engineering, as invention, helps us to unfold the creations further by developing products using the existing materials and the forces of nature to serve humanity. To do so without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, sustainable engineering concepts are required. Hence, the engineering education needs to anticipate and adapt itself to the socio-technological ever-evolving challenges in order to contribute towards the sustainability of the globe in an effective manner. A sustainable engineering curriculum would be one that is comprised of a good blend of engineering, scientific, technological knowledge, plus managerial, innovation, economic, communication, and more importantly ethical and moral knowledge and skills. This paper highlights the evolution of engineering education and emphasizes on the significance of ethics and moral values, managerial skills, emotional awareness, training and development, technopreneurship and knowledge transfer in engineering education.
Epistemic Injustice: Barrier to Articulation Management between Higher Education Institutions in South Africa
Authors: Lortan Darren Brendan , Maistry Savathrie
Published: March 2023

The call for free education and decolonization of higher education curricula in recent years by university students in South Africa has increased awareness of epistemological issues and the notion of epistemic justice in higher education. In national policies education is presented as a critical means for addressing inequality, poverty and unemployment and the need for integration of the various strands of the post-school education and training system is highlighted. Systemic articulation between institutions of learning and work is viewed as expanding access to education and training opportunities.A national articulation baseline survey involving all public universities and technical vocational education and training (TVET) colleges was undertaken in November 2016 in order to explore the existence and nature of articulation initiatives, and identify enablers and barriers to articulation between higher education institutions in South Africa. The report was completed in October 2017. This paper focuses on findings in the report related to articulation management between TVET colleges and universities. Although not explicitly stated, the findings revealed the prevalence of what we refer to as epistemic injustice, indicated by the extent to which individual and collective attitudes in academia perpetuate discrimination that impacts negatively on students’ progression from one institution to another higher learning institution. The need for epistemic justice to be included in the articulation lexicon on a national level is highlighted. One of the recommendations made in the report is that the South African Qualifications Authority should raise the level of awareness of epistemic injustice at institutional and individual levels.
Learning Hypothesis Test the Flipped Way: What Do Students Feel?
Authors: Krishnan Saras
Published: March 2023

The blended approach has been found to be more effective in enhancing learning because this method increases student engagement and involvement, and thus improves their performance. This approach is also more favored among the students of the twenty-first century because by leveraging on technology, blended learning gives more flexibility and autonomy to the students. This paper discusses students’ preference towards one of the blended learning techniques that is the flipped classroom method, in learning the hypothesis test. It was found that students preferred the flipped classroom method compared to the traditional teaching primarily because it enhances their understanding. However, a number of students have mixed feelings towards the flipped classroom because they feel the effectiveness of this technique depends on their group members and the contents of the lesson.
The Möbius Invariant QTH Spaces
Authors: Aljuaid Munirah
Published: March 2023

In this article, we introduce a new space of harmonic mappings that is an extension of the well known space QT in the unit disk D in term of non decreasing function. Several characterizations of the space QTH are investigated. We also define the little subspace of QTH. Finally, the boundedness of the composition operators Cϕ mapping into the space QTH and QTH,0 are considered.
Hubungan Kecemasan Sosial dengan Pengungkapan Diri dalam Hubungan Pertemanan
Authors: Sigarlaki Miryam Ariadne , Nurvinkania Ayu Aulia
Published: March 2023

Kecemasan sosial adalah suatu kondisi seorang individu yang mengalami ketakutan, disertai kecemasan dalam menghadapi interaksi dan performansi di lingkungan sosial. Pada penelitian ini ditemukan bahwa terdapat mahasiswa yang mengalami kecemasan sosial, padahal salah satu tugas perkembangan remaja akhir (mahasiswa) adalah menjalin hubungan yang matang dengan teman sebaya, dan pengungkapan diri menjadi salah satu faktor yang menunjang kelancaran hubungan tersebut. Namun belum dapat dipastikan apakah adanya hubungan antara kecemasan sosial dan pengungkapan diri. Oleh karena itu tujuan dari penelitian adalah menentukan hubungan antara kecemasan sosial dengan pengungkapan diri dalam pertemanan pada mahasiswi universitas “X”, melalui metode kuantitatif. Hipotesis penelitian adalah terdapat hubungan antara kecemasan sosial dengan pengungkapan diri dalam pertemanan. Sampel yang digunakan sebanyak 106 orang dengan menggunakan metode pengumpulan sampel accidental sampling. Peneliti menggunakan alat ukur SAS-A (Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents) oleh La Greca dan Lopez (1998) yang diterjemahkan ke dalam Bahasa Indonesia oleh Rizkadina (2016) dan alat ukur yang dibuat oleh Miranda (2021) berdasarkan teori pengungkapan diri Wheeless & Grotz (1976). Kedua alat ukur telah diuji reabilitasnya dengan koefisien 0,930 untuk skala kecemasan sosial dan 0,927 untuk skala pengungkapan diri. Melalui teknik analisis rank spearman ditemukan bahwa tidak ada hubungan yang signifikan antara kecemasan sosial dengan pengungkapan diri dalam pertemanan, penelitian selanjutnya diharapkan untuk dapat mempertimbangkan variabel lain yang mungkin memiliki hubungan dengan kedua variabel seperti kesepian atau tipe kepribadian.
Comparative Analysis of the Epidemiological Situation and Methods of COVID-19 Control in Some European Countries and Russia in 2020-2021
Authors:   S.I. Georgievsky Medical Academy of V.I. Vernadsky Krim Federal University, Simferopol, Russian Federation, Makhkamova Z. R. , Sanina G. N. ,   S.I. Georgievsky Medical Academy of V.I. Vernadsky Krim Federal University, Simferopol, Russian Federation, Simchin S. A. ,   S.I. Georgievsky Medical Academy of V.I. Vernadsky Krim Federal University, Simferopol, Russian Federation
Published: March 2023

The article provides a comparative analysis of certain epidemiological indicators of COVID-19 for the period 2020 and 2021 in certain countries of Western Europe and the Russian Federation. Indicators analyzed were the level of general morbidity, the rate of increase in cases per day, the level of hospitalization. the number of recovered and the mortality rate.
Green awareness of female consumers towards sustainable products in Indonesia
Authors: Dewi Wayan Weda Asmara , Syauki Wifka Rahma
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this research is to map how green awareness of female consumers on environmentally friendly products. The green product category can be seen from three indicators, namely; the usefulness of products for the environment, product expectations by consumer desires, and the use of raw materials that do not pollute the environment. Green products include a variety of products, ranging from food, beverages, garments/fashion, to household appliances. The research was conducted using quantitative methods in the form of quantitative surveys to map green consumers and female consumers about their decisions on environmentally friendly products. Based on the results of the quantitative descriptive analysis of the four main indicators of the green awareness variable, it is showing good results. Female consumers are interested in environmental issues and show their concern for the environment.
Implementation of Islamic Business Ethics in Persis Banjaran Jam'iyah Enterprises
Authors: Nurfahmiyati Nurfahmiyati , Lestari Rini , Nurcholisah Kania , Suangga Asri , Azizah Asyifa Nur , Handoyo Wijaya , Nurjaya Dimas
Published: March 2023

This study aims to determine the application of Islamic business ethics and dimensions based on four traits of the Apostle (Shiddiq, Amanah, fathonah, and Tabligh) to Jam'iyyah Persis Banjaran business actors. The research method is a descriptive qualitative analysis method carried out on independent variables without making comparisons or connecting with other variables to obtain an overview of the research variables. The results showed that the four qualities of the Apostle had been applied very well, especially in Shiddiq and Amanah. The results of processed data showed that the highest average score in Islamic business ethics was 4.58. Judging from the four qualities of the Apostle applied by business actors in Persis Banjaran, the Shiddiq dimension value is the highest, 4.68. Meanwhile, the value of the Amanah dimension is 4.59.
Effectiveness of Internal Audit Implementation at BPJS of Employment
Authors: Fachrurozy Muhammad Edly , Nurafiah Nunuy , Deliana Deliana , Hasibuan Raya Puspa Sari
Published: March 2023

Abstract This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of implementation of internal audit in BPJS Ketenagakerjaan. This study involved 8 informants consisting of the Assistant Head of the Internal Audit Department, Internal Auditor, and the Branch Head. Measurement of the effectiveness of internal audit in this study uses the IPPF Practice Guide: Measuring Internal Audit Effectiveness and Efficiency from the Institute of Internal Auditors which consists of basic measures, services to stakeholders, technical development, innovation, and human resource development. The results showed that in a basic measure, clients (auditees) felt satisfy with the services provided by SPI. Internal auditors also feel satisfied in terms of the field of work and salary or facilities provided by management. The findings obtained by internal auditors at this time are more on administrative errors and do not lead to fraud. The recommendations by the internal auditor are always followed up by the auditee and this is also the support of management. Repeated findings are still at a reasonable level and the numbers are not many. The existence of SPI greatly helps management in achieving organizational goals. SPI allocates a budget for internal auditor technical development, but this is done in turn because of budget constraints. Internal auditors are also involved in professional organizations, but their nature is only passive. All internal auditors already have certification and auditor rotation is carried out in accordance with the needs and management policies. Keywords: internal audit, effectiveness of internal audit, internal audit department
A RELEVÂNCIA DA HUMANIZAÇÃO NO CENTRO CIRÚRGICO
Authors: Andrade Aléxya Eduarda , Felício Mariana Fonseca Tavares , Silva Rafaella Almeida Da , Pereira Thays Inocencio
Published: March 2023

Introdução: Angústia, incertezas e medo são sentimentos frequentes em pacientes no ambiente cirúrgico, destacando a importância da discussão da humanização no atendimento, desde a admissão até a reabi
A CONSTRUÇÃO DO PROJETO POLÍTICO PEDAGÓGICO DE UMA ESCOLA NA PERIFERIA DE MANAUS - UMA CONSTRUÇÃO COLETIVA
Authors: Silva Eunilia Serra , Silva José Braz Serra
Published: March 2023

A Lei de Diretrizes e Base da Educação Nacional, Lei Nº 9.394/1996 traz no seu espírito e em vários artigos uma maior flexibilidade e autonomia para a escola desenvolver o seu processo de ensino aprendizagem. Para isso, determina no Artigo 12 que os estabelecimentos de Ensino, respeitadas as normas comuns e as de seu sistema de Ensino, terão a incumbência de: elaborar e executar sua Proposta Pedagógica. Ainda nos Artigos 13,14 e 15, enfatiza que o Projeto Pedagógico é forma de a escola trabalhar sua autonomia através de uma Gestão Democrática, com o envolvimento da comunidade escolar na elaboração desse Projeto. Desta forma, este artigo tem por objetivo geral analisar sobre o processo de construção do Projeto Político Pedagógico de uma escola na periferia de Manaus, além de verificar de verificar todo o aparato teórico que foi utilizado pela escola na construção de seu Projeto Político Pedagógico; identificar os processos de envolvimento da comunidade escolar na construção deste projeto; e, observar a aplicação do Projeto Político Pedagógico a partir de sua construção. Como metodologia de pesquisa, utilizou-se o método dedutivo de abordagem, com enfoque qualitativo, pois, há uma análise de conteúdo, e uma sistematização de forma descritiva, por intermédio da pesquisa documental, da observação direta e levantamentos bibliográficos, com a finalidade de evidenciar a qualidade das informações com trabalho de campo.
Palavras-Chave: PPP. Currículo. Proposta Pedagógica.
O ENSINO A DISTÂNCIA EM MEIO A COVID-19
Authors: Almeida Cleison Garrido de , Oliveira Marco Antônio de , Arruda Tatiane Deluque França , Souza Edgar Ferreira de
Published: March 2023

O presente artigo intitulado: O ensino a distância em meio a COVID-19, tem como objetivo geral: verificar de que modo a educação a distância em meio a COVID-19 influencia na vida dos alunos. Discutindo sobre algumas dificuldades e benefícios encontrado em meio ao estudo à distância para alunos do Ensino Fundamental, Médio e do Ensino Superior. Foi realizada uma pesquisa hermenêutica dialética interpretativa, descritiva, de revisão bibliográfica com método qualitativo. Como resultado do estudo apontou que a pandemia da COVID-19 gerou alterações e perturbações em amplos setores da atividade humana. A educação tem sido uma das mais afetadas em grande parte dos países do mundo. A modalidade de educação a distância (EAD), fundamentalmente em suporte digital, veio oferecer soluções emergenciais para esta crise. Neste estudo realizou-se uma análise sobre as percepções desta modalidade educacional. O artigo aborda a problemática mais recente, as consequências trazidas pala COVID 19 relacionada com os tempos pós-confinamento, tratou de apresentar sobre o trabalho docente, assim como procurou reafirmar a importância dessa modalidade de ensino, demostrando algumas dificuldades encontradas por professores e alunos em meio a COVID-19, uma vez que por muito tempo a EAD foi questionada pelos educadores, porém neste estudo pode afirmar que essa forma de ensino traz novas possibilidade de comunicação e informação, além de fazer com que seja repensada as práticas pedagógicas. Portanto as duas modalidades podem conviver em harmonia, aproveitando o que de melhor cada uma tem a oferecer.
Religiosos e o Mundo
Authors: Comblin José
Published: March 2023

Já vimos que os religiosos assumem o papel da Igreja, encarnando-o de certa maneira na própria vida (REB 1969, pp. 308-352). Resta ver qual é êsse papel da Igreja, e de que modo os religiosos o assumem...
Precursors, pathways of carcinogenesis and molecular markers of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Literature review
Authors: Pakharukova M. I. , Yushkov B. G. , Beikin Ya. B.
Published: March 2023

The review analyzes and summarizes the results of the studies on the pathogenesis of  vulvar squamous cell carcinoma and its diagnostic features, reviews precursors and  molecular subtypes of carcinomas. Despite the relatively low incidence of this tumor, over the past few decades, there has been an upward trend in its incidence, including the incidence among young women. According to the latest World Health Organization classification of lower genital tumors from 2020, vulvar squamous cell carcinoma is divided into human papillomavirus (HPV) associated and HPV-independent. While these carcinomas are often morphologically similar, their mechanisms of carcinogenesis, precursors, and clinical outcomes are different. Just the detection of virus DNA in a tumor is not enough to establish HPV status. Meanwhile immunohistochemical detection of the expression of p16 and p53 proteins allows not only to separate two pathogenetic pathways of carcinogenesis, but also to identify its molecular subtypes. The data on the possible use of p16 and p53 expression as the disease prognosis molecular markers have been obtained. Currently, the tactics of treatment and monitoring patients does not depend on the HPV status of carcinoma; however, the results of recent studies suggest that women with HPV positive vulvar cancer have significantly higher survival rates and a lower risk of recurrence. Understanding the mechanisms of carcinogenesis and improving its diagnosis will advance the assessment of the individual risk of the progression of precancerous lesions, as well as the outcome and the occurrence of tumor recurrence.
Features of the local cytokine profile of patients with bullous keratopathy by using personalized therapy with cellular technologies
Authors: Denisko M. S. , Zhigalskaya T. A. , Krivosheina O. I.
Published: March 2023

Background. Today we have active development of ophthalmic surgery, but the role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of bullous keratopathy of the cornea remains insufficiently studied at present.

The aim. To study the dynamics of the local cytokine profile in bullous keratopathy by using personalized treatment with suspension of autologous blood mononuclears.

Material and methods. Two groups of patients with bullous keratopathy were formed: the main group (30 people, 30 eyes), who received an intrastromal injection of a suspension of autologous blood mononuclears and comparison (28 people, 28 eyes), who received a course of pharmacotherapy. The level of interleukins (IL) – IL-10, IL-4, IL-6, IL-1ß, transforming growth factor beta-2 (TGF-β2), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) was determined in the lacrimal fluid of the patient’s eye by enzyme immunoassay.

Results. All patients before treatment showed an increase of IL-1ß in the lacrimal fluid by 3.3 times, IL-6 – by 4.2 times, TNF-α – by 2.0 times (p < 0.05); an increase in the level of IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-β2 by 1.1 times (p > ˂ 0.05). In the main group, after treatment, there was a decrease in IL-1ß by 2.0 times, IL-6 – by 2.1 times and TNF-α – by 1.8 times, and an increase in IL-10 by 1.5 times, IL-4 – by 1.9 times, TGF-β2 – by 1.4 times (p < 0.05), persisting for 12 months. There was a short-term decrease of IL-1ß by 1.7 times, IL-6 and TNF-α – by 1.2 times and an increase of IL-10, IL-4, TGF-β2 by 1.2 times (p >< 0.05) in the comparison group which then reached the initial values. Conclusion. There is an imbalance in the system of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in bullous keratopathy in the lacrimal fluid. Injection of autologous mononuclear cells in the stroma of the cornea reduces the severity of the imbalance of the local cytokine system compared to the course of pharmacotherapy. Key words: bullous keratopathy, cellular technologies, autologous mononuclear leukocytes, cytokines>˂ 0.05), persisting for 12 months. There was a short-term decrease of IL-1ß by 1.7 times, IL-6 and TNF-α – by 1.2 times and an increase of IL-10, IL-4, TGF-β2 by 1.2 times (p ˂ 0.05) in the comparison group which then reached the initial values.

Conclusion. There is an imbalance in the system of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in bullous keratopathy in the lacrimal fluid. Injection of autologous mononuclear cells in the stroma of the cornea reduces the severity of the imbalance of the local cytokine system compared to the course of pharmacotherapy.
Prevalence of malocclusions under conditions of prolonged introduction of systemic fluorides in variable concentrations: Literature review
Authors: Belyaev V. V. , Gavrilova O. A. , Belyaev I. V. , Myalo O. A. , El-Aydi M. A.
Published: March 2023

The pathogenesis of malocclusions, which are common among the population of  all  countries, is  well represented in the professional literature. The occurrence of  malocclusions is associated with genetic and various environmental factors. Among the latter, fluorides which affect the prevalence of some dental diseases are of particular interest. However, there are few publications reflecting the frequency of malocclusion among the population in the regions with different levels of fluoride in drinking water. This problem seems to be significant in the context of the increasing impact of fluorine compounds on human health, including dental health.

The aim of the study. To analyze the literature on the frequency of malocclusion among the population living in conditions of variable fluoride content in drinking water. A manual search of domestic and foreign literature was performed in the search databases PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar. From the initial list of publications, eighteen articles that met the inclusion criteria for the study were selected for analysis. We revealed significant variability of the research results. Some authors note a higher prevalence of malocclusions among the population under conditions of increased fluoride intake, others note a lower one, and still others did not reveal any differences between the values obtained in both samples. Most of the assessed publications did not methodologically meet modern international standards, and therefore were of little evidence.

The literature data do not provide grounds for an unambiguous assessment of fluorine compounds as an environmental factor that indirectly affects the process of occlusion formation in humans and animals.

The review did not allow to make a definitive conclusion on the possible impact of  systemic fluorides on the prevalence and pattern of malocclusion in humans and animals. It requires the implementation of studies that comply with the principles of evidence-based medicine.
Cell-mediated and humoral immunity during COVID-19 in the Republic of Crimea
Authors: Zyablitskaya E. Yu. , Kudlay D. A. , Kolesnik S. V. , Makalish T. P. , Maksimova P. E. , Kunitskaya Yu. E. , Gritskevich O. Yu. , Golovkin I. O. , Fomochkina I. I. , Kubyshkin A. V.
Published: March 2023

The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic has spurred the development of highly effective quantitative methods for assessing the adaptive immune response to the SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2) virus. In order to assess the humoral component of the immune response, various methods for detecting immunoglobulins A, M, G are widely used. ELISPOT seems to be the most accessible and effective method to assess the level of T cells that specifically respond to the SARS-CoV-2 virus antigens.

The aim. To assess cell-mediated and humoral immunity in COVID-19 in residents of the Republic of Crimea.

Methods. The study was performed on 24 volunteers: the presence of coronavirus antibodies was determined by ELISA method, and the presence of contact with coronavirus proteins – by the ELISPOT “TigraTest®  SARS-CoV-2” method (Generium, Russia). For retrospective study of  humoral immunity in the population, we assessed 10 000 ELISA tests (ECOlab IgM and IgG, Russia) performed in our laboratory for the period from July 2020 to January 2022.

Results. The results show the effectiveness of using the ELISPOT method to detect latent forms of coronavirus infection. It is important to note that there is statistically significant relationship between the timing of the disease and the number of spots in  both antigen panels. After vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, cell-mediated immunity lasts up to 6 months or more.

Conclusions. As a result of the study, it was found that during 2021, the level of  immunization of the population of the Republic of Crimea against COVID-19 has significantly increased; the proportion of residents who have positive IgG test has increased from 27 % to 87 %. The results of ELISPOT studies using a set of reagents for in vitro detection of blood T-lymphocytes that specifically respond to SARS-COV-2 virus antigens (“TigraTest® SARS-CoV-2”) showed that this method is more sensitive than ELISA in detecting latent diseases.
Pathological changes of the spleen in mice infected with influenza against the background of the use of saponin tauroside Sx1
Authors: Malygina V. Yu. , Sataieva T. P. , Makalish T. P. , Kalfa M. A. , Kubyshkin A. V. , Rybalko S. Yu. , Kirsanova M. A.
Published: March 2023

Background. It is well known that viral infections are able to cause an imbalance of the interferon system and inhibition of cellular and phagocytic reactions of the body. One of the possible solutions of the flu treatment problem may be the application of immunomodulators of native plant origin since the influenza virus possesses a suppressive effect on cellular immunity and the interferon system.

The aim. To evaluate the effect of saponin tauroside Sx1 obtained from Crimean ivy leaves on histological changes in the spleen of mice infected with influenza A/WSN/1/33(H1N1) virus.

Material and methods. We used 78 male BALB/c mice weighing 16–18 g which were divided into the groups: control (K; n = 12); healthy animals treated with saponin (KS; n = 22); animals infected with influenza virus A/WSN/1/33(H1N1) (V; n = 22); infected animals treated with saponin tauroside Sx1 twice a day for 3 days (SV; n = 22). Histological studies of the spleen were performed on the 4th (subgroups V, SV, KS) and 14th day (2V, 2SV, 2KS).

Results. The spleen tissue of the KS subgroup demonstrated hyperplasia of the white pulp in the form of lymphoid nodules expansion. On the 4th day in the KS subgroup a statistically significant increase in the total area of the lymphoid nodules by 3.9 times compared to the K subgroup was observed. In subgroup V, there was a sharp decrease in the area of white pulp and in 2V the lymphoid nodules zones were practically indistinguishable. Applied correction in the SV and 2SV subgroups significantly ceased the damaging effect of the virus: the lymphoid nodules area increased by 2.7 times in the 2SV subgroup compared to 2V.

Conclusion. Infection with the H1N1 influenza virus leads to compensatory activation of the immune response, however, on the 14th day, a pronounced depletion of the splenic white pulp occurred. The introduction of saponin tauroside Sx1 enhanced the functional activity of the spleen due to an increase of the white pulp area.
History of biomechanical research at the Ilizarov Centre (to the 100th anniversary of Academician G.A. Ilizarov)
Authors: Shchurova E. N. , Dolganova T. I. , Dolganov D. V. , Menshchikova T. I.
Published: March 2023

Background. Biomechanical studies of both the Ilizarov apparatus itself and the physiological system “apparatus – limb” occupy a significant place in the history of the formation and elaboration of the Ilizarov method, developed in the middle of the last century at the Kurgan Research Institute of Experimental Traumatology and Orthopaedics (nowadays – the world-famous Centre named after its creator). The analysis of the history of biomechanical research in the formation of Ilizarov method is not without interest.

The aim. To analyze the history and stages of development of biomechanical research in order to substantiate the effectiveness of the Ilizarov method of transosseous osteosynthesis.

Results. The national medical industry did not produce the appropriate equipment for biomechanical research in the early 1970s. That is why a group of engineers was included into the Laboratory of Clinical Physiology and Biomechanics (established in 1971) of the Ilizarov Centre, which created equipment for studying the processes in the tissues of the limbs and in the structure of the Ilizarov apparatus itself during its traction and compression impact on biological structures. The community of physicians, scientists and engineers made it possible to overcome a number of difficulties and problems. In their scientific publications and dissertations, the laboratory staff paid great attention to biomechanical research during transosseous osteosynthesis with the Ilizarov apparatus. At present, the staff of the Ilizarov Centre continues the traditions established by G.A. Ilizarov. For the first time in our country, a computer 3D video analysis of the kinematics and kinetics of orthopedic patients gait was introduced; it was supplemented with embedded software for the preparation of a clinical report of human gait biomechanics.

Conclusions. The initial stage of the biomechanical research at the Ilizarov Centre included the creation of the research equipment. Subsequently, the biomechanical studies carried out by the staff of the Centre for almost half a century have shown an applied and functional result of the realization of general biological regularities of the Ilizarov’s discovery. At present, the biomechanical research continues at a higher level with the use of modern high-tech equipment.
Prospects for using CRISPR-Cas9 system in the treatment of human viral diseases
Authors: Ziganshin A. M. , Mulyukov A. R. , Omarov M. A. , Mudrov V. A. , Khalitova R. Sh.
Published: March 2023

The aim. To analyze the possibility of using the genetic mechanisms of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in the prevention and treatment of certain viral diseases.

Materials and methods. The search for publications was carried out in Russian and foreign literature using the following search engines: RSCI, Cyberleninka, eLibrary, PubMed, Cochrane Library, etc. A review of domestic and international scientific papers on the research topic was carried out using search keywords: CRISPR, genetic engineering, genome editing, Cas9, sgRNA.

Results. A review of using CRISPR-Cas9 method (“genetic scissors”) as a gene therapy for some viral diseases was carried out, and its main advantages and disadvantages were revealed. An analysis of the data of scientific studies on genetic research methods over the past decade discovers the main aspects of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, modern classification and prospects for using this technology in clinical practice for the treatment and prevention of human viral diseases. The possibilities of creating a more versatile and stable version of the CRISPR-Cas9 technology are considered. Particular attention is paid to the technological difficulties and obstacles that scientists face when implementing this system for targeted use in clinical medicine.

Conclusion. One of the rapidly developing areas in science giving promising prospects for modern healthcare is genetic engineering, especially in cases where scientific developments are applied in clinical practice. The discovery of “genetic scissors” technology has revolutionized all medicine. Wide opportunities for developing new treatment methods for many viral diseases and creating conditions for their early prevention opened up for the medical community. In the future, with the introduction of this technology into clinical practice, it will become possible to treat diseases that have not previously responded to ongoing therapy and were considered incurable.
X-ray diagnostics of tuberculosis in the screening of patients with HIV infection
Authors: Borodulina E. A. , Kuznetsova A. N. , Borodulin B. E.
Published: March 2023

Background. The main method of screening of patients with HIV infection to detect pulmonary tuberculosis is X-ray diagnostics. A comparative assessment of changes in lung tissue in different methods of X-ray diagnostics and at different levels of CD4+ cells seems relevant.

The aim of the study. To compare plain radiography and computed tomography of the lungs as screening methods for detecting tuberculosis in patients with HIV infection at various stages of immunosuppression.

Materials and methods. 396  patients with HIV registered at the AIDS Center were  examined using plain lung radiography (PLR) and computed tomography (CT). To search for mycobacterium tuberculosis, we used bacterioscopy of a smear with Ziehl – Neelsen staining; HAIN-GenoType MTBDRplus technique; inoculation of BACTEC MGIT 960 liquid media; inoculation of Löwenstein – Jensen dense medium. Statistical processing of numerical material was carried out using the Statistica 5.5 program with a significance level p ≤ 0.05; Pearson χ2 criterion was used for the analysis of qualitative features

Results. When comparing the results of PLR and CT, the differences were found. When  using PLR, the focal lung lesions were described more often (χ2  =  40.79; p = 0.00001), according to CT data, they turned out to be fibrosis (χ2 = 2.33; p = 0.1269). When comparing the PLR and CT data, the differences were obtained in the description of pulmonary fibrosis (χ2 = 20.78; p = 0.00001), focal lung lesions (χ2 = 40.79; p = 0.00001), dissemination (χ2 = 9.16; p=0.0025).

Conclusion. When screening HIV-infected patients (at the standard of using plain radiography twice a year) it should be taken into account that CT provides more precise differentiation of focal lung lesions and pulmonary fibrosis, earlier detection of dissemination syndrome and ground-glass, especially at severe immunodeficiency with a decrease in CD4+ T lymphocytes down to 200 cells and less. Timely appointment of CT study will improve the effectiveness of tuberculosis detection at the stage of screening in AIDS centers.
The role of Toll-like receptor 4 gene polymorphism in the development of organ dysfunction in patients with severe pneumonia associated with A/H1N1 influenza
Authors: Malyarchikov A. V. , Shapovalov K. G.
Published: March 2023

The aim of the study. To identify the frequency of occurrence of TLR4 Asp299Gly (rs4986790) gene polymorphism and to establish its contribution to the development of organ dysfunction in patients with severe pneumonia associated with A/H1N1 influenza.

Materials and methods. The study included 55 patients with severe pneumonia associated with A/H1N1 influenza. Inclusion criteria: severe pneumonia; consolidation/ground-glass syndrome according to chest X-ray/CT. Exclusion criteria: unstable hemodynamics; body mass index > 30; diabetes mellitus; HIV; tuberculosis, oncopathology. Verification of the pathogen in the respiratory swab was carried out using PCR method: A/H1N1  influenza virus RNA was identified. The age of  the  patients was 47 [38; 62] years. Among all the patients the proportion of men was 47.8 %, of women – 52.2 %. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 included patients with SOFA scale (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) score ≥ 2 points; group 2 – patients with SOFA scale score ˂ 2 points. Gene SNPs were determined by PCR method using standard kits developed by Research and Production Company “Litekh” (Moscow). Amplification of the TLR4 gene fragments was carried out in a thermocycler Bis-M111 (Bis-N LLC, Novosibirsk). Genomic DNA isolated from whole blood leukocytes using the “DNA Express Blood” reagent was analyzed followed by an amplification reaction. The amplification product was detected in a 3% agarose gel.

Results. Multiple organ dysfunction (SOFA scale score ≥ 2 points) in patients with severe pneumonia associated with A/H1N1 influenza was registered in 24 (43.6 %) cases. When analyzing the frequency of occurrence of the minor Gly allele, according to genetic models, the differences were established between patients of the groups 1 and 2 in codominant (p = 0.023; odds ratio (OR) – 8.82 (0.95–81.89)) and dominant (p = 0.005; OR = 12.35 (1.40–109.07)) models.

Conclusion. Severe pneumonia associated with A/H1N1 influenza is accompanied by a high incidence of  organ dysfunction. The risk of organ failure development is  2.1  times increased in patients with severe pneumonia with identified TLR4 Asp299Gly gene polymorphism, which probably requires further study.
The effect of self-confidence levels of the students of the faculty of sports sciences and faculty of education on their decision-making skills
Authors:   Ministry of Education, Turkey, Yağci İhsan
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to determine whether the self-confidence levels and decision-making skills of the students at Kocaeli University's Faculty of Sport Sciences and Faculty of Education differed in terms of demographic characteristics and to make recommendations in line with the results. The population consisted of a total of 2,626 students studying at Kocaeli University's Faculties of Sport Sciences and Education, and the sample consisted of 316 students who participated in the study voluntarily in the 2020-2021 academic year. The “Self-Confidence Scale” developed by Akın (2007) and the “Decision-Making Skills” scale were used to collect data. While examining the distribution normality, the normal distribution curves and skewness-kurtosis values were examined through histograms, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test values used in cases where the number of participants was greater than 50 were examined, and it was determined that the data did not show a normal distribution and non-parametric tests were applied. The data do not show a normal distribution. For data analysis, frequency analysis was used to examine the demographic characteristics of the participants, skewness-kurtosis values to determine whether the data showed a normal distribution, and correlation analysis to determine the correlations. The analysis results revealed that the self-confidence levels and decision-making skills of students at Kocaeli University's Faculty of Sport Sciences and Faculty of Education were significantly high in all dimensions (p < 0.05). According to the study results, the decision-making skills of the students of the Faculty of Sport Sciences and the Faculty of Education have a direct and positive effect on their self-confidence levels.