bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges and Opportunities for a Local Government Implementing a Human Rights Policy in Australia
Authors: Dekker Karien , Lewis Abigail , Luo Yingyi , Ciaffaglione Alexandra
Published: October 2024

This article considers how a human rights culture in urban policymaking fits within wider theories of human rights cities. Specifically, it considers practical ways to bring together what local government officers consider the most important initiatives to enhance human rights in the city, and which initiatives are feasible to implement in the context of complex urban governance structures. It argues that principles of leadership, accountability, and operational capability are all integral to the successful implementation of a human rights approach in the city. This account is informed by empirical data from a research project undertaken in a city council located in Melbourne, Australia. This study used a mixed-methods approach combining conversations, focus groups, and a co-designed workshop with local government officers working in various departments in the city, local politicians, and community representatives. The workshop collected ideas on how to work successfully towards the implementation of a human rights policy in the city council and to understand how obstacles to implementation can be overcome by changing the culture in the organisation. The findings show that a lack of leadership, an overreliance on quantitative monitoring, and diffused operational capability hamper the implementation of a local human rights culture in this local government council. Recommendations are for councillors and CEOs in local governments to take a stronger leadership role and for residents to be more involved in the co-design of human rights initiatives in the community.
O expressivo principio da insignificância e alguns aspectos da lei de drogas
Authors: Oliveira Lúcia Helena Silva Barros de
Published: October 2024

Reflete-se, aqui, sobre a possibilidade de incidência do princípio da insignificância em algumas hipóteses de em algumas hipóteses do crime de tráfico ilícito de entorpecentes, previsto na Lei nº 11.343/06. Isso porque, caso reconhecido esse expressivo princípio, acreditamos que acarretará em efetiva diminuição do efetivo carcerário, problema que há muito aflige a sociedade brasileira
Clinical and laboratory profile, disease activity and outcome of childhood systemic lupus erythematosus - A retrospective study in a tertiary care hospital in Assam
Authors: S Dhrubajyoti , DP Kumar , D Jolly , S Sreejana , NM Meetei
Published: October 2024

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus in children (cSLE) represents 10-20% of all cases of SLE. However, this is still underreported from Assam. In this study, we report our experience with 25 patients of cSLE over the last 3.5 years. Materials and methods: This retrospective study was carried out at the Department of Pediatrics, Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati, Assam. Data of patients with cSLE in the records of pediatric rheumatology and immunodeficiency clinic from April 2018 to October 2021 were collected and analysed. Results: In our cohort, the median age at presentation was 10 years (range, 4.6-14 years). The female-to-male ratio was 7:1. Hematological involvement, 21 (84%) was the most common manifestation followed by cutaneous, 19 (76%), and renal involvement, 17 (68%). Five patients also had associated HbE hemoglobinopathy. We had performed renal biopsy in 12/17 patients. Class IV lupus nephritis was the most common type in our patients. Twenty-four out of 25 patients had active disease at the time of the first presentation. There were four deaths in our cohort including two deaths that occurred due to congestive cardiac failure in patients with suspected myocarditis. Seventeen patients in our cohort had completed a median of 10 months (range, 2 – 30 months) follow-up and 6/9 biopsy-proven proliferative nephritis were in remission after a median of 9.5 months (range, 2-27 months) follow-up. Conclusion: Hematological involvement was the commonest manifestation in cSLE at our center. The majority of patients with proliferative LN were in remission with standard treatment. Keywords: hemoglobin E; lupus nephritis; myocarditis; vasculitis
Trends in co-morbidities during COVID-19 waves: A study of prevalence and dynamics in India
Authors: VK Verma , S Manchala , SS Beevi , AS Mohod , RC Darapuneni , SG Reddy , P Upendram
Published: October 2024

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its variants have instigated the global COVID-19 pandemic, which unfolded in waves over nearly three years since its emergence in 2019. Variances in host immune responses have resulted in a spectrum of symptoms ranging from asymptomatic to mild, moderate, severe pneumonia-like, or critical conditions. For many individuals, symptomatic conditions exacerbated and posed life-threatening risks, particularly when co-morbidities such as diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular diseases (CVD), hypertension, malignancies, and HIV were present. This study was aimed to ascertain the co-morbidity trends across the two major waves of COVID-19. Method: In India, COVID-19 patients from the first wave (April 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021) and the second wave (March 1, 2021 to October 1, 2021) were categorized into asymptomatic, moderate, severe, and critical groups, with 100 patients in each category. These patient groups were further subdivided based on co-morbidities and subjected to data analysis. Results: Diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and lung complications were identified as common co-morbidities significantly impacting the quality of life for COVID-19 patients. Conclusions: Our data analysis has highlighted the influence of co-morbidities or multi-morbidities in exacerbating severe and critical conditions during both waves 1 and 2 of COVID-19 infections. Keywords: co-morbidities; COVID-19; diabetes mellitus; hypertension; lung complications
Optic nerve head and retinal nerve fiber layer changes by spectral domain optical coherence tomography in glaucoma suspects at tertiary care hospital
Authors: PB Wagganavar , A Shreenivasa , K Adappa , KK Deshpande
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by functional loss or optic nerve dysfunction which is one of the leading causes of irreversible but preventable blindness. The aim of the study was to determine which of the retinal nerve fiber layer and optic nerve head parameters are reliable markers of optic nerve damage in glaucoma suspects. Methods: Observational cross-sectional study of 250 patient’s including147 glaucoma suspect eyes, 103 normal eyes. All subjects underwent complete eye examination and imaging with the spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) cirrus-TM OCT (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA). Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and optic nerve head (ONH) OCT protocols were used to evaluate all study participants. The main outcome measures were the difference in OCT parameters among groups. Results: Study shows statistically significant difference in the average RNFL thickness, superior, nasal, inferior, temporal quadrants, rim area, cup volume, average cup to disc ratio (CDR), vertical CDR with P value <0.001 between the two groups. Average CDR, vertical CDR and cup volume had significantly greater AROC values (ROC: 0.99, 0.98, 0.95) than RNFL parameters for discriminating glaucoma suspects from normal eyes. Conclusion: Assessment of RNFL, macular and ONH damage with SD-OCT has been proven useful for diagnosing the disease at different levels of severity, as well as for quantifying risk in glaucoma suspects. In our study ONH measurements, as provided by the SD OCT, have more diagnostic value than RNFL parameters in the diagnosis of glaucoma suspects from normal. Keywords: glaucoma suspects; optic nerve head; retinal nerve fiber layer; optical coherence tomography
Efficacy of conservative treatments for anterior knee pain with chondromalacia patella
Authors: AR Anand , K Naveen , MA Kumar , S Rauniyar , HK Kalyan
Published: October 2024

Chondromalacia of patella (CMP) is a condition in which cartilages under patella and underlying surface soften and tear resulting in anterior knee pain that worsens especially while flexing and climbing stairs. Conservative treatments can delay or prevent the need of surgical interventions. The prime objective of this paper is to demonstrate the efficacy of certain conservative treatments for symptomatic relief from anterior knee pain due to CMP on a single case. A 45-year-old male diagnosed to have symptomatic CMP of grade-IV with anterior knee pain in both the legs sequentially and difficulty in flexion and climbing stairs has been treated conservatively with nutraceutical supplement, physical rehabilitation, and combined platelet rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) intra-articular (IA) injections. Knee flexion angle (KFA) and kneeling ability score (KAS) are considered as clinical evaluation parameters for demonstrating the efficacy of the conservative treatments. The conservative treatments with collagen peptide nutraceutical supplement and rehabilitation exercises for the right knee and the same along with combined PRP and HA IA injections for the left knee sequentially are found to be effective in symptomatic relief from the knee pain to a great extent with significant improvement in the knee joint flexibility as demonstrated on a single case. Thus, the treatments are remarkable for significant alleviation of the knee pain and improvement in the knee joint flexibility. Keywords: Chondromalacia patella; anterior knee pain; conservative treatments; kneeling ability; knee flexion
Exploring the predictor of teaching quality using the job demands-resources model
Authors: Rafsanjani M. A. , Prakoso A. F. , Wahyudi H. D. , Samin S. M. , Prabowo А. Е. , Wijaya S. А.
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Maintaining teaching quality in higher education in Indonesia is challenging due to the significant job demands placed on lecturers, who are expected to fulfill multiple roles as educators, researchers, and mentors. Aim. The present research aimed to explore the potential of using the job demands-resources (JD-R) model to evaluate the quality of teaching in higher education. Methodology and research methods. This study employs structural equation modelling (SEM) using SmartPLS 3.0 software to analyse the research model based on a random sample of 285 lecturers from nineteen universities in Indonesia. Results. It has been established that role conflict among lecturers negatively impacts teaching quality, whereas self-efficacy positively influences it. The paper presents methods for utilising the JD-R model to examine factors related to the performance of higher education teachers. Scientific novelty. This study, utilising the capabilities of the JD-R model, identifies factors that influence teaching quality and presents mechanisms that underlie the relationship between role conflict and the level of self-efficacy in teaching performance among high school educators in Indonesia. Practical significance. The paper out-lines the opportunities available to university administrations and the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology for making critical management decisions related to teaching quality. This includes restructuring the educational process to reduce the burden on teachers and expanding the methods used to assess their performance. These goals can be accomplished through the development of innovative organisational support systems.
Head of the Tax Office – the Most Widely Empowered Administrative Enforcement Authority
Authors: Żeżawski Arkadiusz
Published: October 2024

The article discusses the regulations relating to enforcement authorities contained in the Administrative Enforcement Proceedings Act. The study aims to indicate the special role of the head of the tax office in administrative enforcement proceedings. Analyzing the applicable regulations, the author points to the broad powers and practical consequences associated with this type of enforcement authority. He proves that administrative enforcement authorities are differently and unequally equipped in the application of enforcement measures.
Epidemiological Characteristics of Patients with
Plantar Warts: a Single-center Retrospective Study
Authors: Choi Hoon , Kwak Jun Ho , Shin Bong Seok , Kim Min Sung , Na Chan Ho
Published: October 2024

Background: Plantar wart is a common dermatologic disease encountered in outpatient clinics. Clinical trials for the treatment of plantar warts have been conducted, but only a few studies have focused on the epidemiological factors of plantar warts.
Objective: This study aims to analyze the epidemiological factors for plantar warts in Korean individuals at a single institution.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of patients with plantar warts at Chosun University Hospital from January 2019 to December 2022.
Results: A total of 176 patients were included in this retrospective study. Plantar warts are more common in younger ages, and men tend to have higher rates of plantar warts than women (M:F = 3:1). The patients showed a higher incidence of plantar warts during winter (29.0%), of which 74.4% were urban residents. 6.3% of patients had warts after trauma. Plantar warts were also observed in 66 of the 504 household members of the patients. The most common locations of wart lesions were in the forefoot (73.3%), followed by the toes (60.8%), midfoot (22.2%), and heel (18.2%). Moreover, the location of the lesions was almost equal, most often on the right side (34.7%), followed by the bilateral (33.5%) and left sides (31.8%).
Conclusion: This study offers valuable information about the epidemiological factors of plantar warts in South Korea. These contents will be used for lifestyle education to prevent the recurrence of plantar warts.
Cutaneous Manifestations of COVID-19 Vaccination
and COVID-19 Infection: a Questionnaire-based,
Multi-center Study in Korea
Authors: Moon Ik Jun , Lee Woo Jin , Ko Hyun Chang , Kim Hyojin , Na Chan Ho , Park Joonsoo , Park Jin , Seo Hyun-Min , Shin Min Kyung , Lee Young Bok , Jang Yong Hyun , Jung Hye Jung , Lee Yangwon
Published: October 2024

Background: Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can cause various cutaneous complications, including dermatologic adverse reactions to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines reported by several studies.
Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of cutaneous complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection and adverse reactions to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, and to determine the risk factors for cutaneous manifestations.
Methods: A questionnaire-based survey in 12 hospitals in Korea.
Results: After receiving SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations, 20.23% and 5.94% of the respondents reported new-onset cutaneous lesions or aggravation of preexisting cutaneous conditions, respectively. Respondents who developed new cutaneous lesions after COVID-19 were significantly older than those who did not (p = 0.001). Systemic
symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination (fever, chill, cough, sore throat, and myalgia) were associated with higher risk for new-onset cutaneous lesions (p < 0.05). Myalgia was the only systemic symptom of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination that was associated with higher risk for the aggravation of preexisting cutaneous conditions (p = 0.011). Following coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis, 13.3% and 9.7% of the respondents reported new skin lesions and aggravation of preexisting cutaneous conditions, respectively. Respondents with new cutaneous lesions were significantly older than those without new cutaneous lesions (p = 0.046). Systemic COVID-19 symptoms were significantly more common in respondents who developed new cutaneous lesions than in those who did not (p < 0.001). The proportion of respondents with underlying autoimmune diseases was significantly higher in those with cutaneous COVID-19 complications than in those without such complications (p = 0.038).
Conclusion: This study offers insights into the characteristics of cutaneous manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and infection in Korea.
How national political culture shapes international relations: the case of Japan
Authors: Chugrov S.V.
Published: October 2024

Political culture presupposes going beyond national borders to the outside world, it implies comparing oneself with other cultures in the mirror of socio-political values (“I am the other for the other”). Japan is a testing ground with an exceptionally rich texture for analyzing the influence of a specific political culture on the country’s foreign policy. The author conducts such an analysis based on the methodological arsenal of comparative political science along the “modernity-postmodernity- neomodernity” axis. The author critically examines the concept of the political analyst Andrey Kortunov who focuses on the transition of a number of countries from the postmodern development track, which, within the framework of globalization, led them to nowhere, to a more distinct neo-modern track with its pragmatic transactionalism and orientation to their original values. According to the author, Japan under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe tried to break the postmodern deadlock, but then a breakdown ensued caused by the indecisive and reactive policies of weak leaders. Japan is ’’astride on the fence” with one foot in the globalist postmodernity, blindly following the lead of the United States, and the other in neo-modernity, trying to rely on national foundations and values. Using concrete examples from the current reality of Japan, the article shows how the constants of political culture transform the trends that determine the key vectors of international relations, including the negotiations with Russian leaders on the highest level.
“Büyük Birader”in Panoptikonu Bağlamında The Capture Dizisinin Analizi
Authors: Basmacı Pınar
Published: October 2024

Cezalandırmadan daha faydalı olduğu ve bu bağlamda da kullanımının arttığı gözetim mekanizmasıyla, bireylerin özdenetim yapmaları sağlanmaktadır. Bu mekanizma içerisinde, Fouacault’un ifadesiyle gözün iktidarı haline gelen iktidar ise yalnızca kendi çıkarlarını gözetmekte ve gerçekliği de bu perspektifle inşa etmektedir. Sistemin kusursuz işlemesi noktasında ise yurttaşların bilgilerini depolamak önem arz etmektedir. Bu da enformasyon toplumuyla gözetim toplumunu birbirine bağımlı kılmaktadır. Gözetlemede ve enformasyon elde etmede, iktidarlar panoptik aygıtlardan faydalanmaktadır. Bu aygıtlarda bireyler görülmekte, ancak görememektedir. Tüm bunlar doğrultusunda The Capture dizisinin, 1984 romanıyla kıyaslanarak ele alındığı bu çalışmanın konusunu, dizi bağlamında gözetim, enformasyon ve iktidar kavramları ile romandaki ortak söylemleri ortaya koymak oluşturmaktadır. Bu perspektifle, dizinin ele alınan kavramlara ve romanla ortaklıklara sahip olup olmadığını ortaya koymak çalışmanın amacını, söz konusu kavramların nasıl işlendiğini ve romanla ne gibi ortaklıkların bulunduğunu tespit etmek ise problemini oluşturmaktadır. Çalışma, distopik bir romanla, günümüzün teknolojisini ve işleyişini ortaya koyan dizideki ortaklıkları sunduğundan dolayı önemlidir. Söylem analizinin kullanıldığı çalışmada, iktidarın çıkarlarının ve gerçeklerinin her şeyin üzerinde olduğu, bireylerin her an gözetlenmekle birlikte, suça meyilli dahi olmaması gerektikleri, yani romandaki gibi yalnızca fiziksel suç değil, düşünce suçunu da işlememesi gerektiği tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca, dizideki ve günümüzdeki “Büyük Birader”in, romandaki “Büyük Birader”den daha sorunlu bir yerde durduğu sonucuna varılmıştır.
Özel Sektör Çalışanlarının Algılarına Göre Örgüt İçi İletişim Dinamiklerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Okan Yusuf Taha , Kaçar Ferhat , Taşiyan Mustafa
Published: October 2024

Bu çalışma, Şanlıurfa ilindeki otellerde çalışan 19-55 yaş arası 21 kişiden elde edilen veriler üzerinden gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın amacı, örgüt içi iletişim dinamiklerini anlamak ve çalışanların bu dinamikleri nasıl algıladığını ortaya koymaktır. Bu kapsamda, nitel görüşmeler gerçekleştirilmiş ve elde edilen veriler Maxqda 20 paket programı yardımıyla içerik analizine tabi tutularak incelenmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda, özel sektör çalışanlarının örgüt içi iletişim algılarını şekillendiren çeşitli faktörlerin olduğu belirlenmiştir. İletişimde kullanılan dil, liderlik tarzı, iletişim kanalları ve kurumsal iletişim stratejileri gibi unsurlar, çalışanların örgüt içi iletişimini etkilediği tespit edilmiştir. Bu çalışmada elde edilen veriler doğrultusunda geliştirilen “örgüt içi iletişim gelişim modeli”, çalışanların algılarına dayanarak örgüt içi iletişimin nasıl iyileştirilebileceğini göstermektedir. Ayrıca elde edilen bu model, yöneticilere ve insan kaynakları uzmanlarına, iletişim stratejilerini geliştirmek ve çalışan memnuniyetini artırmak için bir rehberlik sunmaktadır. Dolayısıyla, bu çalışma özel sektördeki örgüt içi iletişim dinamiklerini anlamak ve geliştirmek için önemli bir adım olmuştur. Elde edilen bulgular, gelecekteki araştırmalara ve uygulamalara ışık tutacak niteliktedir. Bu çalışmanın sonuçları, örgütlerin iletişim stratejilerini iyileştirmelerine ve çalışanların memnuniyetini artırmalarına yardımcı olabilir.
Çevrim İçi Kullanıcı Yorumları Üzerine Netnografik Bir Araştırma
Authors: Özer Beril , Akdağ Mustafa
Published: October 2024

Yeni medyanın önemli bir parçası olan YouTube, kullanıcılarına video paylaşma, diğerlerinin videolarını görüntüleme, beğenme ve bu videolara yorum yazma gibi imkânlar sunar. Bu araştırma Yeniliklerin Yayılması ile Kullanımlar ve Doyumlar teorileri ekseninde YouTube’deki teknolojik ürün temalı videolara yazılan yorumları netnografik araştırma yaklaşımı ışığında incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Çalışmada, son zamanların en popüler ev teknolojisi ürünlerinden birisi olan airfryer incelenmiştir. Araştırmada, yukarıda bahsi geçen teorilerin kendi kodları ve teoriler doğrultusunda araştırmacılar tarafından geliştirilen kodlar kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen bulguları şu şekilde sıralamak mümkündür: Kullanıcılar bilgiye ulaşma amacıyla YouTube platformunu kullanmakta, bir şeyin nasıl kullanılacağı ya da tamir edileceği hakkındaki sorularını diğer kullanıcılara ya da içerik üreticisine yönelterek YouTube’yi etkileşim ortamına dönüştürmektedir. Bireyler parasosyal etkileşim doyumu amacıyla bu platformları kullanmaktadır. YouTube kullanıcısı bireyler ürüne, içerik üreticisine ya da videoya yorum yazan diğer kullanıcılara yönelik yazdıkları yorumlarla eleştirme ve linçleme doyumuna ulaşmayı amaçlamaktadır. Ürünü ve içerik üreticisini savunmaya yönelik yorumlar yazarak aynı zamanda diğer kullanıcıların sorularına da cevap veren bireyler diğerlerini bilgilendirmek istemektedir. Kullanıcılar teknolojik bir yeniliğin benimsenme sürecinde ürünün karmaşıklık, göreli avantaj, denenebilirlik, uygunluk ve gözlenebilirlik gibi unsurlarını dikkate almakta; bir yenilikten ise onu deneyimleyip daha sonra vazgeçebilmektedir. Bu vazgeçmedeki ana etkenlerin uygulamadaki olumsuzluk ve karmaşa durumu olduğundan, yenilik karmaşık ise kullanımının kolay olmadığından, karmaşıklık ile uygulamanın olumsuzluğu arasında doğru orantı olduğundan, bireylerin yeni bir teknolojiyi keşfederken doyuma ulaştığından ve bu keşfin içsel bir haz sağladığından, airfryerlerin yeni bir ürün olarak algılandığından fakat ürüne yönelik karmaşanın hâlâ sürdüğünden de bahsetmek mümkündür.
On ways to reduce the energy supply costs in Russia
Authors: Nekrasov S. A. , Klimenko V. V.
Published: October 2024

Purpose: is to research of ways to reduce the energy supply costs for Russian consumers.

Methods: the analysis of the transformation of the electric power industry was carried out using the tools of tectology and system economic theory.

Results: the key reason for the constant increase in the cost of energy supply has been identified, which is the transition from a systematic approach to energy development aimed at increasing general economic efficiency to maximizing the economic performance of independent energy companies. The need to adjust the basic principles laid down in the concept of electric power industry development is substantiated.

Conclusions and Relevance: the result of the successful completion of the reform of the Russian electric power industry is a steady influx of significant investments into the industry over the course of decades. But despite the increase in power system capacity, which is outstripping the dynamics of electricity demand, the need for the most expensive peak power sources and energy storage systems is growing, which leads to an increase in electricity prices in addition to the investment component. A positive feedback has been identified that reduces the structural stability of the energy sector, namely: between rising electricity prices; reduction of electricity consumption from the network as a result of the installation of their own generation by some consumers; increasing costs of generating and network companies; more intensive growth in electricity prices and increased motivation to install their own generation for that part of consumers who continue to use grid electricity. The ways are proposed and the solutions are considered aimed at forming new connections between participants in the single technological process of production, transmission and consumption of energy resources, with the aim of reducing the energy supply costs and improving the specific performance indicators of the energy system, and in the future reducing the costs of integrating renewable energy sources into it.
Methodology for extracting narratives from social media big data
Authors: Petrov E. Yu. , Sarkisova A. Yu. , Dunaeva D. O. , Voronov A. S. , Myagkov M. G.
Published: October 2024

Purpose: of the article is to present the experience in developing and testing the methodology for extracting a system of narratives on a socially significant phenomenon from authentic social network big data (using the example of narratives about COVID-19 vaccination in the Russian social network VKontakte during the pandemic).

Methods: of automated data analysis were used by the tools of the PolyAnalyst analytical platform: topic modeling (PLSA method), text indexing algorithms with the sentence identification stage, clustering, data aggregation, data normalization, calculation of a quantitative index. The calculation of the measure of proximity of keywords using the Python, partial manual markup and data validation were also carried out.

Results: 4.5 million messages relevant to the topic of COVID-19 vaccination published in VKontakte from 01.01.2020 to 01.03.2023 were reduced to 237 stable narratives. A popularity index was calculated for each narrative. For example, the following narrative turned out to be the most popular: “Employers put pressure on people to get vaccinated” (it was supported by 76,118 texts). As a result of the study, a dataset was obtained, including 237 narratives.

Conclusions and Relevance: the developed toolkit is universal: the methodology can be adapted to any relevant topic, requiring only adjustments to the input parameters of thematic modeling. The obtained dataset is planned to be introduced into scientific circulation as an up-to-date material for studying public opinion on vaccination in Russia. The results contribute to international research on public opinion and communication in crises and can serve as a basis for practical actions aimed at improving the quality of public communications and decision-making at all levels of government.
Development of the global competitiveness of Russian regions: the concept and configuration of the "smart" complementarity
Authors: Kurnikova M. V.
Published: October 2024

Purpose: is to work out the scientifically sound theoretical and methodical framework for the «smart» complementarity of trade flows, aimed at selecting and substantiating potential commodity niches in trade of Russian regions with foreign countries.

Methods: the general methodological basis of the study is the critical analysis of the scientific literature that forms the theoretical and methodological basis for the global competitiveness of individual regions of a country presented in the theories of regional and spatial economy. The study has been carried out by methods of system, structural-logical and abstract-logical analysis.

Results: the research resulted in some fundamental scientific novelties such as: the scientifically grounded theoretical concept of “smart” complementarity, which makes it possible to identify the presence of specific foreign trade niches in a geographical (country, region) and commodity contexts, based on an analysis of the complementarity of trade flows at the level of a Russian region and a foreign country, and assessment of the global competitiveness of the regional economy, as well as “fine” criteria that determine the activity of participants in foreign economic activity. The applied results included a specific configuration of "smart" complementarity – the algorithm for determining promising economic specializations of the region, allowing to combine trade statistics of  a foreign country with data regional statistics, indicating the presence of foreign trade potential, taking into account regional economic specializations. The developed algorithm is intended for the use in an information and analytical system to support management decisions in the field of foreign economic activity of the region.

Conclusions and Relevance: the concept and configuration of «smart» complementarity in their practical implementation in the form of an information and analytical system are proposed in the article to provide the participants of foreign economic activity with data on promising export groups for selected countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. This approach allows moving the «center of gravity» of building trade and economic relations with foreign countries from the federal to the regional level.
Perceptions and attitudes toward digital dentistry among dental professionals: a questionnaire survey study
Authors: Katkade Akanksha Sanjay , Rajguru Vilas L , Mahale Kishor M , Khalikar Smita A , Mahajan Sonali V , Tandale Ulhas E
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, digital technologies have become increasingly essential in dentistry, continuing the field's long-standing necessity of cutting-edge technology and innovation.

The objective of the study was to determine the perception and attitude of dentists towards the use of digital technology.

A Questionnaire study was conducted amongst 400 dental professionals. The questionnaire was sent electronically to all participants. The data from the filled forms was then compiled in a spreadsheet. The data was analyzed using IBM-SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Studies) Version 22. P value was taken as statistically significant (P-Value < 0.05).

58% dental professionals did not receive any training. 42% dental professionals have received formal training or education in digital dentistry during their professional career while 58% didn’t receive any training. 62% of professionals have noted changes in treatment outcomes or patient satisfaction since integrating digital dentistry technologies into their practice. 77% of participants expressed a willingness to adopt CAD/CAM systems in their practices. More than 75% were optimistic about bright future of digital technologies in dentistry in improving patient care and treatment outcomes.

The majority of dental professionals were in the favor of incorporation of digital dentistry into clinical practice. Initial high cost of equipment’s and lack of formal training were the major barrier for incorporating digital technologies in routine clinical practice.
Management of Necrotic Transmetatarsal Amputation with Argania Honey Dressing: A Case Report
Authors: Dakkach Mohamed , Khattabi Leila , Raghay Kawtar , Allouch Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Chronic wounds represent a significant global health concern, accounting for a considerable proportion of amputations. Recent advances in healthcare have highlighted the importance of effective wound healing and the prevention of bacterial infections, as these factors are crucial contributors to elevated morbidity rates. Selecting an appropriate wound dressing has presented a significant challenge for healthcare professionals, particularly in developing countries. Honey, a traditional remedy with a long history of use, has been employed in wound care for centuries. This report presents a case study of effective management in a 74-year-old patient with a 28-year history of type II diabetes. This individual experienced a complication related to diabetic foot issues, necessitating toe amputation. This procedure subsequently resulted in difficulties involving necrosis. The treatment protocol included the application of a dressing based on pure Argania honey (Argania spinosa, an endemic tree of southwestern Morocco), without additives, pasteurisation or manipulation. A sharp debridement procedure was previously performed to facilitate the impregnation of honey in the affected area of necrosis. At the end of the treatment all symptoms, including pain, exudates, odour, burning sensation and itching, were fully alleviated. Moreover, a considerable decrease in swelling and wound size was evident, suggesting significant healing in the injured area. The administration of natural remedies for the treatment of this kind of injury may prove an efficacious strategy for the enhancement of quality of life for diabetic patients.
The Nexus between Polyphenols and Gut Microbiota and Their Interplay in Human Health: A Brief Review
Authors: Albin K. J. , Nimith Noble P. N. , Prem Kumar N. , Imran Khalid
Published: October 2024

Polyphenols are a broad class of naturally occurring substances in plants and have drawn extensive attention as they may possess promising health-promoting benefits. Recently, gut microbiota and polyphenol interactions have been directly linked to the well-being of humans. The classification, sources, and interactions of polyphenols with the gut microbiota are presented in this review, highlighting their key health benefits in humans. Polyphenols undergo complex transformations within the gastrointestinal tract and interact with the gut microbiota, a varied collection of bacteria living in the digestive system. The interactions substantially influence the composition, functioning, metabolic activity, and gut microbiota diversity. Research indicates that polyphenols may possess prebiotic-like properties, favouring Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria growth, among other beneficial bacteria. The fermentation of polyphenols is aided by these bacteria, which produce bioactive metabolites that may improve human health and well-being in various ways. Moreover, the alteration of gut microbiology caused by polyphenols has been linked to improvements in several health outcomes, including enhanced metabolic health, fortified immunological function, and a decreased susceptibility to chronic conditions like heart disease and certain forms of cancer. In summary, the intriguing relationship between polyphenols and gut microbiota has significant health implications for humans. Understanding these relationships can open the door to tailored dietary treatments and the development of functional foods to support a balanced gut microbiota and general well-being.
High Performance Thin Layer Chromatographic Method for Simultaneous Estimation of Vitamin C, Thymoquinone and Thymol in Plant Extracts
Authors: Patel Sweta , Tandel Falguni , Chakraborthy Guno
Published: October 2024

Background: Lack of an effective HPTLC simultaneous estimation method for vitamin C, thymoquinone and thymol in plant extracts. Aim: The present study involves the development of an accurate, precise, specific, and specific HPTLC method for the identification and quantification of three phytomarkers thymol and thymoquinone in Nigella sativa (kali jiri) seed extract and vitamin C in Hylocereus polyrhizus (dragon fruit) extract. Methods: Using an aluminum plate pre-coated with silica gel 60 F254 and methanol-n hexane-ammonia (15%) (8.5:1.5:0.2 v/v/v) as the mobile phase, thin layer chromatographic development was performed. Results: For each of the three markers, densitometric quantification was carried out at the isobestic point of 271 nm. Vitamin C, thymol, and thymoquinone bands were separated chromatographically at Rf values of 0.66, 0.35, and 0.19, respectively, by using developed mobile phase. For thymol, thymoquinone, and vitamin C, linearity range was 2000-8000 ng/band. The three markers showed 99.39%–99.91% recovery for thymol, 99.22%–99.89% recovery for thymoquinone, and 99.19%–99.69% recovery for vitamin C. Conclusion: The optimized method was used to quantify three thymol and thymoquinone in N. sativa (kali jiri) seed extract and vitamin C in H. polyrhizus (dragon fruit) extract.
Validated HPTLC Method for Detection of Kaempferol in Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract and Investigation of its Antidiabetic Potential by In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Patil Sneha B. , Jalalpure Sunil S. , Kunchanur Mahantesh G.
Published: October 2024

Background: Exploring traditional treatments offers valuable foundations for the innovation of new pharmaceuticals for the management of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Validation of plant extract by suitable chromatographic techniques is a part of standardization procedures. Moringa oleifera is one such traditionally used plant to be explored. Aim: The study explores the antidiabetic potential of M. oleifera through both in vitro and in silico explorations along with HPTLC method development and validation for estimation of kaempferol in M. oleifera extract. Method: Plant extract was prepared by maceration method using ethanol: water (70:25) and followed by Soxhlet(95% ethanol). Pharmacognostical analysis was conducted. In silico and in vitro antidiabetic and antioxidant studies were conducted, as well as quality control analysis was done using HPTLC method the mobile phase used was toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid: methanol: (6:3:0.3:1v/v/v/v). Results: HPTLC analysis showed the presence of kaempferol, and the method was validated as per ICH guidelines. According to reports on molecular docking studies, several phytocompounds inhibited when porcine pancreatic α-amylase (PPA) complexed with a carbohydrate inhibitor (PDB ID: 4W93).The hydroalcoholic extract was discovered to have the ability to inhibit α-amylase, with IC50 values of 57.38588±1.92 μg/mL and 32.51564±1.59 μg/mL for standard acarbose, respectively. Conclusion: Overall, this research provides comprehensive data for the estimation of kaempferol in Moringa oleifera by HPTLC and presents valuable evidence on its antidiabetic potential both in vitro and in silico.
PASS Assisted Prediction and Meta-analysis of Active Phytoconstituents of Guggul for the Treatment of Chronic Prostatitis: A Gateway to Cure Prostate Cancer
Authors: Bhushan Vinayak , Sindhu Rakesh K.
Published: October 2024

Background: Mostly men are particularly prone to prostate cancer as well as chronic prostatitis the underlying causes behind prostate cancer as well as chronic prostatitis are multifaceted as well as diverse a spike in serum prostate-specific antigen characterises both diseases. Chronic prostatitis is prostate inflammation independent of the source inflammation and is linked to a variety of malignancies in general along with prostate inflammatory reactions that are thought to have a contributing influence on the advancement and growth of prostate cancer. Aim: This study aims to identify different phytoconstituents of Guggulu for treating chronic prostatitis along with meta-analysis. Meta-analysis is used as an analytical technique to aggregate results of separate inferential statistics investigations of clinical data on chronic prostatitis. Methods: Phytochemical ingredients were analyzed using PASS estimates. Canonical SMILES were identified to determine Pa values. PASS software was then used to forecast activities. Doxycycline, a conventional drug for chronic prostatitis, was selected for comparison. Data was collected using the PASS online program to estimate physiological and biochemical parameters. The activities of all constituents were then compared against doxycycline. Results: The results indicate that Guggul sterone Z shows promise as a candidate for further investigation in medication therapy for chronic prostatitis. A meta-analysis aims to identify clinical trials for this phytoconstituent, which has yielded the highest number of results. PASS prediction findings reveal that Guggul sterone Z, followed by Mansumbinone, 16-dehydroprogesterone, and alpha-pinene, exhibit the most significant activities. Conclusion: The study forecasted that Guggul sterone Z, Mansumbinone, 16-dehydroprogesterone and alpha-pinene are the potential phytoconstituents that can play a vital role in the development of novel treatments for chronic prostatitis-induced prostate cancer.
Formulation and In Vitro Evaluation of Aceclofenac Orally Disintegrating Tablets using the Natural Superdisintegrants
Authors: Prakash S. , Kareem S. Abdul , Kiruthika S. , Gayathri K. , Saravanan G.
Published: October 2024

Background: Oral disintegrating tablets are engineered to dissolve in saliva extremely quickly, typically within a matter of seconds. Aim: The aim of the research was to develop and assess aceclofenac Oral Disintegrating Tablets (ODT) through wet granulation, employing natural super disintegrants in different concentrations. Methods: The chitosan was isolated from the prawn shell using different concentrations of formulated trails, including F1, F2, F3, F4, and F5. Aceclofenac orally disintegrating tablets were prepared and characterized for various parameters including hardness, friability, weight uniformity, drug content, disintegration time, and in vitro dissolution studies. Results: Among the formulations, F5 exhibited superior performance in terms of rapid disintegration with 29 sec and the highest percentage of drug release with 98.91% compared to the others. Conclusion: Increasing the concentration of isolated chitosan from prawn shell results in an increased dissolution profile and a decrease in disintegration time.
Stability Indicating HPTLC Method for Estimation of Cubebin in Crude Drug and Marketed Formulations
Authors: Patel Mansi , Dodiya Tanvi , Prajapati Disha
Published: October 2024

Background: Cubebin is a naturally occurring lactone lignan isolated from the plant species Piper cubeba. It exhibits a range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. This compound has garnered significant interest for its potential therapeutic applications in traditional and modern medicine. Aim: This study aimed to develop a novel stability-indicating High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) technique that is simple yet precise in estimating cubebin in crude drug and marketed formulations. Method: Cubebin was estimated using precoated TLC silica gel 60 F254 plate as a stationary phase and n-hexane: ethyl acetate: formic acid: methanol (6:3.5:0.5:0.3 v/v/v/v) as a mobile phase with the chamber saturation time of 20 mins. Key Findings: Cubebin was detected and quantified at the wavelength of 283nm. The Rf value of cubebin in standard solution, Piper cubeba extract, Dhanwantari Vati, and Khadiradi Vati was found to be 0.494±0.0015, 0.492±0.002, 0.490±0.0020, 0.499±0.001 respectively. The calibration curve exhibited linearity within the range of 3000-13000 ng per band with a correlation coefficient (r2) of Cubebin was 0.9968. The method developed was utilized for the quantitation of cubebin in Piper cubeba and both the marketed formulations. Conclusion: A novel HPTLC method was developed and validated in accordance to ICH guidelines for the analysis of cubebin in crude drug and marketed formulations. The method was found to be simple, precise, accurate, and specific. This method is suitable for quality control and stability testing of cubebin-containing formulations.
Role of Natural Products in Combatting Rheumatoid Arthritis: Phytochemical Strategies and Antioxidant Defences
Authors: Varghese Leemol , Banu Shanaz
Published: October 2024

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a persistent inflammatory autoimmune illness that damages bones by causing joint discomfort, edema, and stiffness. In RA, inflammatory cell infiltration and synovial hyperplasia lead to the generation of proinflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-1. To find phytochemical substances utilised in RA treatment, SciELO, Virtual Health Library, and PubMed databases were searched for rheumatoid arthritis, herbal remedies, and medicinal plants. One of the predominant transcription factors is NF-κB, in regulating inflammatory response. Translocation of active NF-κB into the nucleus leads to gene transcription that produces proinflammatory cytokines. Oxidative stress changes transcription factors, which affects inflammatory gene expression. Phytochemicals have treated various diseases, blocking NF-κB translocation mitigates proinflammatory cascade activation (Withanolides, Gugglosterone, Epigallocatechin-3-gallate, O-glucosylcimifugin, Andrographolide, Curcuminoids, and Resveratrol), Flavonoids (Quercetin, Hesperidin, Kaempferol, Liquirin). Their therapeutic potential aids in creating safe and effective medicines for NF-κB-driven immune-inflammatory disorders like RA. This study emphasises the involvement of NF-κB in a series of events of inflammation, highlighting the role of phytochemicals in regulating its activity. It also discusses the effectiveness of polyphenols in relieving RA by blocking the signalling pathways and suggests a further study to support their usage.
СТВОРЕННЯ ЗНОСОСТІЙКИХ КОМПОЗИЦІЙНИХ ПОКРИТТІВ НА ОСНОВІ ПОРОШКІВ САМОФЛЮСУЮЧИХ СПЛАВІВ ЕЛЕКТРОКОНТАКТНИМ ПРИПІКАННЯМ
Authors: Лопата Лариса , Качинська  Ірина , Солових Андрій , Катеринич Станіслав
Published: October 2024

У роботі розглядається процес підвищення функціональних властивостей покриттів із порошків сплавів, що самофлюсуються, шляхом використання методу електроконтактного припікання. Показано, що найвища міцність зчеплення покриттів. з основою забезпечується за рахунок  створення з боку основи широкої дифузійної зони. На межі покриття – деталь не має місця наявність рідкої фази. Це свідчить про те, що, на відміну від наплавлення, при електроконтактному припіканні немає місця перегрів і зона перемішування матеріалу покриття з металом деталі. Рентгенографічне вивчення фазового складу покриттів, показує, що при оптимальних режимах електроконтактного припікання в спеченому шарі в основному зберігаються карбіди, присутні в вихідному порошку, що свідчить про збереження спадкових властивостей матеріалу покриття при електроконтактному припіканні. Ефект подрібнення карбідної фази дозволяє отримувати спечені шари з рівномірно розподіленими карбідними включеннями, що сприяє збільшенню зносостійкості покриттів. Карбідні частинки мають специфічну гострокутну форму, що свідчить про збереження вихідних властивостей та структури матеріалу покриття при електроконтактному припіканні.