bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The institutional structure of the soviet economy and its role in the formation of Ukraine’s economic heritage
Authors:   Institute for Economics and Forecasting, NAS of Ukraine, Gorditsa Karolina
Published: December 2024

The article is devoted to the historical and economic analysis of the key determinants of the institutional structure of the planned and distributed economy and their influence on the formation of the economic heritage of Ukraine. The purpose of the study is to summarize the main trends in the evolution of the institutional structure of the Soviet economy and to determine its role in the formation of the «track effect» in the economic development of Ukraine. The article reveals the historical prerequisites of the institutional breakdown and the formation of the Soviet socialist economy, and characterizes the peculiarities of its institutional structure at various historical stages. The author reveals the mechanism of interaction between formal and informal institutions and their role in the economic development of the planning and distribution system of management. Defined the institutional features of the formation and functioning of the mobilization economy and the system of centralized state management of economic processes. The impact of the economic reforms of the 1950s and 1960s on the strengthening of the communicative value of horizontal economic ties and the formation of the «administrative market» as a matrix of the shadow economy has been established. Revealed the main distortions of the institution of property, the essence of power-property relations, the reasons for their rooting, and the economic consequences of its functioning. The author identifies the role of the Soviet institutional heritage in the distortions of the Ukrainian business environment and the risks of the emergence of the «historical rut» effect in the institutional development of the Ukrainian economy. Substantiated the conclusion about the advisability of a limited application of mobilization methods of economic management in the post-war economic revival and the need to develop state policy measures aimed at strengthening the institution of private property, protecting the rights of owners, overcoming corruption and establishing social control over the distribution of economic power and responsibility.
The role of the public sphere of science in the context of the development of cities and communities: a blueprint for the future
Authors:   Dobrov Institute for Scientific and Technological Potential and Science History Studies of the NAS of Ukraine, Karmadonova Tetiana
Published: December 2024

The article investigates the role of the public sphere of science in fostering the sustainable development of cities and communities, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine. The full-scale war has led to severe disruptions, including the displacement of large numbers of people, which has strained local economies, and infrastructure. In this context, the article explores how science, through research, communication, and education, can address these challenges by driving innovation and fostering community resilience. The study draws attention to the significance of scientific literacy and public engagement in building trust between citizens, scientists, and policymakers, which in turn supports sustainable development and informed decision-making. Author of the research highlights the potential of the public sphere of science to enhance the quality of life by promoting innovation in urban management, infrastructure development, and community integration. This emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, the use of smart technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration for effective city management and growth. The paper reviews recent literature and case studies, noting positive examples of how scientific communication and engagement contributed to economic development in regions. Despite the progress in recognizing the role of science, the study identifies several critical gaps, particularly the need for a more nuanced understanding of local cultural and social contexts, and a lack of empirical research on the integration of science into community decision-making. Moreover, the role of technology in facilitating public engagement with science and improving transparency in governance seems underexplored. The article concludes by providing recommendations for enhancing the impact of science on urban and community development, with a focus on increasing public engagement, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and leveraging technological solutions to drive sustainable growth.
Estilos de vida da “Geração Alfa”
Authors: Vianna Köche Paula
Published: December 2024

O artigo apresenta bases epistemológicas da abordagem reconstrutiva de narrativas biográficas, adotada pela pesquisa em andamento, sobre as experiências de membros da “Geração Alfa” (nascidos a partir de 2010), para compreender seus estilos de vida, especialmente quanto à prática da leitura. Explora-se conceitos da obra de Schütz (1979) para a compreensão da interpretação dos agentes sobre a vida cotidiana, tarefa principal da sociologia do autor, base para a abordagem reconstrutiva de narrativas biográficas. O texto expõe desdobramentos da pesquisa baseados em resultados preliminares de entrevistas narrativas com adolescentes de 12 a 14 anos. Um desdobramento da pesquisa é a proposição de uma ferramenta para estimular a leitura nos anos finais do Ensino Médio. A ferramenta, Visual Interactive Reading (VIR), está em desenvolvimento pela Agência Experimental de Engenharia de Software da Escola Politécnica da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (AGES-PUCRS). Argumenta-se, ainda, que a abordagem reconstrutiva de narrativas biográficas pode subsidiar ações de instituições voltadas ao público jovem.
Testing the acceptability and feasibility of the lower-risk gambling guidelines in Finland
Authors: Palomäki Jussi , Latvala Tiina , Salonen Anne H. , Marionneau Virve , Hodgins David , Young Matthew M. , Castrén Sari
Published: December 2024

Background

The lower risk gambling guidelines (LRGG) represent an evidence-based collaborative effort to provide clear advice to people on the limits of safe gambling consumption. The guidelines are as follows: 1) Gamble no more than 1% of household income per month; and 2) Gamble no more than 4 days per month; and 3) Avoid regularly gambling at more than 2 types of games.

Methods

In an online survey study (N = 778), we evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the LRGG among different subpopulations in Finland.

Results

We found that the guidelines were generally evaluated positively as understandable, sensible, clear, and “just right” in terms of their content. There were some notable differences between subpopulations: Individuals who were at risk of gambling problems evaluated the LRGG more negatively than others, while professionals working in the field of gambling prevention were the most optimistic about the guidelines. Thus, increased level of potentially harmful gambling engagement was linked with a somewhat more pessimistic attitude towards the guidelines. On the other hand, those who had not gambled in the past year viewed the guidelines as too permissive compared with those who had gambled, or those working in gambling prevention.

Discussion

Overall, our results show clear differences of opinion between the various subpopulations, which appear to be associated with the individuals' level and nature of gambling experience. We conclude that the LRGG can likely be adopted into wider use in Finland.
Electric vehicle adoption in Generation Z: Drivers of Hungarian higher education students' attitude
Authors: Kovács Tamás , Wolf Gábor
Published: December 2024

The transition to electric vehicles has become an urgent priority due to their lower environmental impact. The automotive industry has already developed solutions for zero-emission vehicles to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, this transition heavily depends on the evolution of consumer demand. This paper focuses on Generation Z, as they will soon become a determining consumer segment in the automotive market. Our research aims to analyze Generation Z's attitude toward electric vehicles. Their attitude provides valuable insights for industry leaders regarding future consumer behavior. We analyzed the relationship between selected adoption factors (environmental concern, perceived risk, ease of use, and enjoyment) and Generation Z's attitude toward electric vehicles (measured by perceived relative advantage). Our research is based on data from Hungarian Generation Z respondents, and our findings conclude that environmental concern is less relevant than enjoyment and ease of use, which are the most impactful factors.
Developments in caloric measurements, materials, and devices at Calorics 2024
Authors: Moya Xavier , Guo Mengfan , Mathur Neil D.
Published: December 2024

Heating and cooling combined constitute the world’s largest form of end-use energy and the largest source of carbon emissions. It is therefore interesting to explore heat pumps based on caloric materials, which offer promising and environmentally friendly alternatives to gas combustion and vapor compression. The possibility of replacing these traditional methods of heating and cooling motivates the current research on caloric materials and devices. Here, we report the latest developments from the second biennial Calorics conference.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

Caloric materials offer environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional heating and cooling technologies, addressing global energy and carbon emission challenges. The latest developments on caloric measurements, materials and devices were presented at the second biennial Calorics conference in Cambridge (UK).

Discussion

How can caloric technologies be made more energy efficient to ensure they outperform traditional vapor-compression systems?

What are the most significant barriers to scaling caloric materials and devices from lab-scale prototypes to commercial applications?

Could integrating caloric technologies with renewable energy sources, such as solar or waste heat recovery, offer sustainable solutions for heating and cooling?
Prediction of postoperative adhesives intestinal obstruction and its recurrence in children
Authors:   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ukraine, Fofanov O.D. , Diduh I.M. ,   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ukraine, Fofanov V.O. ,   Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ukraine
Published: December 2024

It is known that the expressiveness of the adhesion process (AP) depends on the individual characteristics of the connective tissue metabolism. In recent years, the role of acetylation processes in predicting pathological adhesion formation has been actively studied. A genetically determined fast type of acetylation is an unfavorable background for the development of peritoneal adhesion disease (PAD).
Aim - to study the effectiveness of predicting postoperative adhesive intestinal obstruction (AIO) and its recurrence in children based on determining the acetylation phenotype (APh).
Materials and methods. In order to reveal the prognostic value of the acetylation phenotype in the formation of postoperative (AIO), we studied the activity of acetylation in 30 children aged 4-16 years, operated on for appendicular peritonitis (the main group). The control group consisted of 30 somatically healthy children. In addition, a study of APh was conducted in 42 children aged 3-17 years, who underwent surgery for postoperative AIO, to study the informativeness of this test as a prognostic factor for AIO recurrence. APh was established in children by determining the biochemical activity of the enzyme N-acetyltransferase (NAT).
Results. It was established that in children operated on for appendicular peritonitis, in which postoperative AIO occurred, rapid acetylation phenotype (RAP) prevailed (57.14% of children), and in children without signs of AIO, RAP was detected in only one case (6.25%). Among the children operated on for postoperative AIO, the proportion of patients with RAP was even higher (63.64%). Opposite results were noted regarding slow acetylation phenotype (SAP). Among children with recurrent AIO, RAP was detected in 57.14% of cases, and among patients without relapse RAP was diagnosed in 25.0% of children. The opposite pattern was observed in patients with SAP. A direct correlative relationship between NAT activity and the value of the peritoneal adhesion index (PAI) was noted - the higher level of NAT activity, the higher PAI.
Conclusions. Determination of APh in children based on the biochemical activity of the NAT enzyme allows to establish the degree of risk of AIO. AIO and its recurrence are significantly more common in patients with RAP. Detection of RAP in a patient can serve as a prognostic criterion for the severity of AP.
The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. The research protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of all institutions mentioned in the work. Informed consent of the women was obtained for the research.
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Improving Teacher Competence in Blended Learning-Based Technology from a Gender Perspective
Authors: Halimatussakdiah Halimatussakdiah , Azwar Alfi Julizun , Sartika Eka
Published: December 2024

This research discusses efforts to increase teacher competency in blended learning-based technology through a gender approach. Blended learning, which combines online and face-to-face learning methods, has the potential to increase interaction and learning accessibility, but requires adequate technological skills from teachers. By considering a gender perspective, this research explores the differences and gaps that may arise between male and female teachers in adopting blended learning technology. Data was collected through a survey of a number of teachers from various school levels who had access to blended learning training. The research results show that there are disparities in the use of technology, where gender, age and experience factors influence teacher competence in implementing learning technology. This research recommends gender-based training that supports all teachers in developing their technology skills, to create more inclusive and effective learning environments. Thus, increasing this competency not only supports teacher career development, but also improves student learning outcomes through the use of more adaptive and responsive technology.

Penelitian ini membahas upaya peningkatan kompetensi guru dalam teknologi berbasis pembelajaran campuran (blended learning) melalui pendekatan gender. Blended learning yang menggabungkan metode pembelajaran daring dan tatap muka memiliki potensi untuk meningkatkan interaksi dan aksesibilitas pembelajaran, namun memerlukan keterampilan teknologi yang memadai dari guru. Dengan mempertimbangkan perspektif gender, penelitian ini mengeksplorasi perbedaan dan kesenjangan yang mungkin muncul antara guru pria dan wanita dalam mengadopsi teknologi blended learning. Data dikumpulkan melalui survei terhadap sejumlah guru dari berbagai tingkatan sekolah yang memiliki akses terhadap pelatihan blended learning. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya disparitas dalam penggunaan teknologi, di mana faktor gender, usia, dan pengalaman mempengaruhi kompetensi guru dalam penerapan teknologi pembelajaran. Penelitian ini merekomendasikan pelatihan berbasis gender yang mendukung seluruh guru dalam mengembangkan keterampilan teknologi mereka, guna menciptakan lingkungan belajar yang lebih inklusif dan efektif. Dengan demikian, peningkatan kompetensi ini tidak hanya mendukung perkembangan karir guru, tetapi juga meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa melalui penggunaan teknologi yang lebih adaptif dan responsif.
Development of 3D Printed Scaffolds Containing Decellularized Plants and Investigation of Their Basic Cell Interactions
Authors: Odabaş Sedat , Ertuğrul Melek İpek , Özdemir Fulya , Çakmak Zeliha Esra , Çakıcı Süveydanas , Konaklı Şükrü Kaan , Kılıç Melissa
Published: December 2024

The decellularization process fundamentally removes the cellular content of the tissue (nuclear material and other nucleic acid components) without disrupting the structural integrity of the tissue. It is an effective approach, especially for obtaining three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials composed of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides tissue biomechanical support. In the literature, studies have shown that after the decellularization process, animal-derived decellularized tissues have been combined with various biopolymers to prepare composite scaffolds using different techniques. In recent years, due to their structural features, decellularization studies of plant-derived tissues have also gained prominence alongside animal tissues. In this study, succulent plants were chosen as the plant tissue, and the purpose was to prepare hybrid scaffolds by combining decellularized succulent tissues with alginate structures. The study aimed to investigate the fundamental cell-material interactions and cartilage-specific differentiation parameters using mesenchymal stem cells. Succulent plant leaves were decellularized using a solution containing Triton X-100 and SDS. The water-retaining parts were separated from other tissues, lyophilized, and turned into a powder. This approach was employed to preserve biomolecules with water-retaining capacity in powdered form. To determine the efficiency of the decellularization process, the quantities of DNA and proteins were assessed and compared. Due to their high water-absorbing capacity, the succulent plants' water-retaining structures were combined with alginate biopolymer at various viscosity levels to prepare an ink suitable for 3D printing. After printing, the resulting scaffolds' degradation and swelling behavior, chemical composition, structural characterization, and thermal properties were examined. In the final phase, a fundamental investigation was carried out on cell-material interactions using L929 mouse fibroblast cells and human mesenchymal stem cells on 3D printed scaffolds. The interactions within the prepared hybrid scaffolds were analyzed through basic cytotoxicity tests.
ASSESSMENT OF INFLUENZA AND COVID-19 VACCINE EPIDEMIOLOGIC EFFICACY IN THE 2020-2021, 2021-2022, 2022-2023 SEASONS IN NOVOSIBIRSK
Authors: Saroyan Tereza A. , Kurskaya Olga G. , Solomatina Maria Vladimirovna , Sharshov Kirill Alexandrovich , Shestopalov Аlexandr M. , Erofeeva Mariana K. , Stukova Marina A. , Buzitskaya Zhanna V. , Lioznov Dmitry A.
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Vaccination prevents the development of disease and severe complications, as well as reducing economic losses and expenditure on costly treatments and rehabilitation. Goal. The goal of this study is to assess the epidemiological effectiveness of domestic influenza and COVID-19 vaccines during the epidemic seasons 2020-21, 21-22, and 22-23 in Novosibirsk. Materials and Methods. We conducted prospective cohort studies to evaluate the effectiveness of domestic influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. A total of 9,000 men and women were selected to participate in the study based on inclusion criteria. Nasopharyngeal samples were collected to verify the presence of relevant causative agents. Vaccines were administered during pre-epidemic seasons from September to December in 2020, 2021, and 2022. During the first period (2020-21), no cases of influenza disease were reported in the Novosibirsk district, so it was impossible to compare the effectiveness of influenza vaccines. However, during the second period (21-22), influenza incidence among unvaccinated individuals was 2.6%. No cases were detected among vaccinated individuals, which also not allowed to assess vaccination preventive effect. During the study period, COVID-19 incidence was 21.9% and 3.1% among unvaccinated vs. vaccinated people, respectively. When evaluating the effectiveness of domestic COVID-19 vaccines during this period, the incidence of infection (IE) was 7.06 and the clinical effectiveness (CE) was 85.8%. In the third period of the study (the 2022-2023 season), influenza incidence was 8.8% among unvaccinated subjects and 0.3% among vaccinated subjects. The incidence of COVID-19 infection among unvaccinated and vaccinated subjects was 3.6% and 0.25%, respectively. Conclusion. When analyzing the epidemiological effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines, it was found that adults vaccinated against COVID-19 in the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 seasons were 7.1-14.4 times less likely to become infected. The protection rate ranged from 85.8% to 93.1%, indicating the effectiveness of the vaccines. The study also revealed significant changes in the etiological pattern of acute respiratory viral infections during the COVID-19 pandemic. These results may indicate a loss of the dominant role for SARS-CoV-2 in acute respiratory infections in 2023 and a gradual return to the active circulation of other viruses, such as influenza and other pathogens.
A PRELIMINARY STUDY: FIRSTLY OPTIMISATION OF THE IN VITRO BIOFILM FORMATION METHOD IN TRICHOSPORON ASAHII STRAINS ISOLATED FROM PATIENTS IN TÜRKİYE
Authors: Ayaz Sinem , Ergin Sevgi
Published: December 2024

Aim: Trichosporon asahii, a fungus found in nature and human microbiota, has recently emerged as the most common cause of disseminated and deep-seated trichosporonosis, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Biofilm formation, one of the important virulence factors of T. asahii, facilitates its colonisation and proliferation, providing the fungus with antifungal and environmental stress's resistance. In this study, we aimed to develop a reproducible T. asahii biofilm model for our future research by optimising the inoculum concentration, adhesion-time, biofilm maturation-time, static and shaking parameters.
Methods: We included two clinical isolates obtained from urine samples and a reference strain in the study. For each strain, we applied 36 different experimental parameters, including, 105, 106 and 107 CFU/mL inoculum consentrations, 60, 90, and 120-minutes adhesion-times, 48 and 72-hours maturation-times, and static versus shaking. We determined the biofilm formation of fungus using the most commonly used crystal violet method. We determined standard deviation values with three replicates within each experiment, and we compared all the graphs obtained by repeating these experiments twice.
Results: After applying 36 different experimental parameter combinations, we determined the most optimised and reproducible parameters as 107 CFU/mL inoculum concentration, 120-minute adhesion-time, 72-hour maturation-time and static.
Conclusion: In optimisation studies conducted worldwide on this subject, it has been reported that biofilms formation varies in terms of quantity and duration across different countries, but there isn't any optimisation study in Turkey. We believe that the optimisation conditions we have firstly identified in our country will shed light on our future research and other studies to be conducted in the future.
A relation between chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and COVID-19 course
Authors: Lyubimova E. V. , Savlevich Elena L. , Zurochka A. V. , Mitrofanova Е. S.
Published: December 2024

The data on impact of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) on SARS-CoV-2 virus susceptibility and COVID-19 course were reviewed. CRS heterogeneity is determined by different types of inflammatory response. A heterogeneous CRS is divided into CRS without polyps and with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is accounted for by diverse underlying immune responses. Hypersecretion of interleukins (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13 in eosinophilic CRSwNP downmodulates angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 receptor expression that should reduce SARS-CoV-2 infection risk because ACE2 is a main cellular tropism factor for SARS-CoV-2. In neutrophilic CRS type 1 immune response predominates, with activation of Th-1 cells, hypersecretion of interferon (IFN)-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α to increase ACE2 expression. However, another data also show that hypoxemia level and pulmonary system damage did not differ between patients with CRS and CRS without polyps. Literature contradictions may be related to differences in availability of medical care, treatment of bronchial asthma (BA) as well as coverage of PCR testing. Regarding use of local or systemic glucocorticosteroids (GCS) effect on SARS-CoV-2 infection risk, some authors believe that GCS may increase COVID-19 severity and mortality, probably by downmodulating local innate immune response factors. According to other data, GCS may reduce ACE2 expression, or there is no relationship between previous GCS use, the incidence of COVID-19 and the frequency of treatment in the intensive care unit. Biological therapy of CRSwNP and BA with monoclonal antibodies did not aggravate COVID-19 severity and mortality risk. Although such data are currently limited, authors recommend not to interrupt such treatment during the epidemic, as well as continue taking leukotriene receptor blockers that can further inhibit major protease (Mpro) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, according to international guidelines on COVID-19 treatment, using CRSwNP and asthma biological therapy should be discontinued until the patients recover completely. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) should be interrupted in the case of confirmed COVID-19 due to a probability of developing severe COVID-19. After COVID-19, disturbances in the immune system may persist and possibly change the course of CRS, therefore requiring to modify therapeutic approaches for such patients. At the same time, the worldwide literature has been gradually accumulating information on pathogenesis underlying alterations in such patients including those with CRS, which requires development of new therapeutic approaches.
Antimicrobial resistance patterns and virulence determinants of clinical enterococcus isolates in Pakistan
Authors: Ullah J. , Aziz A. , Ullah A. , Ullah I. , Jabbar A. , Umair M. , Ullah M. , Ullah H. , Ullah M. , Ali Ihsan
Published: December 2024

Background. The current study was designed to determine antibiotic resistance profile,detection of antimicrobial resistance and virulence-related genes among enterococcus species. Materials and methods. Altogether, one hundred fifty enterococcal isolates were collected from various clinical specimens and identified by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiotic susceptibility testing and MICs of vancomycin were carried out as per CLSI guidelines. A series of PCR reactions were used to screen vancomycin-resistant genes (vanA, vanB, and vanD) and virulence-related genes (esp, ace, asa1, gelE cylA) among VRE enterococcus species. Results. The isolated enterococcal strains comprised 62.6% E. faecalis, 33.4% E. faecium, and 4% of other species. Overall enterococcus showed a high level of resistance; 94% to erythromycin, followed by ciprofloxacin 82.6%, levofloxacin 70%, and vancomycin 16%. The 57.4% of the isolates were recovered from hospitalized patients and 96% of the enterococcus isolates were multi-drug resistant. The MICs of vancomycin-resistant strains remained in the range of 32 µg/ml to 256 µg/ml for the majority of the isolates. The vancomycin-resistant phenotypes vanA, vanB, and vanD were found in 29.2%, 37.5%, and 33.3% isolates respectively. Regarding virulence determinants the observed percentages were as follows; esp: 16.6%, asa1: 70.8%, gelE: 25%, ace: 33.3%, and cylA: 25%. Conclusion. The majority of the isolates were E. faecalis and multi-drug resistant. The VRE isolates carried antimicrobial resistance and virulence-related genes, and vanA, B, D phenotypes were the most common among VRE isolates.
Biosynthesis of novel MnO2 nanocapsules via C. spinosa extract and honeybee-derived chitosan: exploring antibacterial and anticancer properties
Authors: Elharrif Mohamed Гамаль , Hassan N. A. , Sharaf M.
Published: December 2024

This investigation delves into the integration of Capparis spinosa extract (CSLe) onto manganese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2NPs) and chitosan derived from honeybees (CSH) in a nanostructured configuration. The resultant nanocomposites, namely CSLe@MnO2NPs and CSH/CSLe@MnO2NPs, underwent thorough characterization through various analytical techniques. UV-Vis spectroscopy unveiled distinctive features, such as ligand-to-metal charge transfer and photoluminescence, affirming the successful chitosan-functionalization of the MnO2NPs, thereby differentiating them from their pristine counterparts. FTIR spectra corroborated the binding of chitosan and identified crucial molecular functional groups. SEM-EDX analysis revealed the morphological properties, addressing non-uniform sizes in the as-calcined MnO2NPs by the uniform coating of CSH on CSLe@MnO2NPs, while EDX confirmed the presence of essential elements. TEM and SAED provided insights into the spherical morphology, crystalline structure, and lattice planes of these nanoparticles. Size distribution measurements highlighted distinctions between CSLe@MnO2NPs and CSH/CSLe@MnO2NPs. The nanomaterials underwent evaluation for their antimicrobial properties against a spectrum of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains, with CSH/CSLe@MnO2NPs exhibiting the highest bactericidal activity. Additionally, they demonstrated low minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, especially against S. aureus (MIC as low as 12.5 µg/ml). Their efficacy extended to anti-biofilm formation, significantly diminishing biofilm development in a dose-dependent manner, a pivotal factor in addressing biofilm-related infections. The study also scrutinized their cytotoxicity against normal Vero and PC3 prostate cancer cells, revealing potential anticancer properties. Dose-dependent reductions in cell viability were observed for both normal and cancer cells. In conclusion, these findings underscore the versatility and promise of CSH/CSLe@MnO2NPs in diverse biomedical applications, including antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anticancer therapies.
BIOMEDICAL PARAMETERS ASSESSED IN PREGNANT MICE RECEIVING ORAL COMMERCIAL NANOSILVER PREPARATIONS
Authors: Gapon Marina , Ivanova Elena , Tverdokhlebova Tatiyana , Kantaria Avtandil , Tagirov Zagir , Loginov Igor , Gapon Eduard
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The aim of the work was to determine the safety of oral commercial colloidal nanosilver preparations during mouse pregnancy by assessing microbiota and local colonic nonspecific resistance; pregnancy course and outcome; morphology of vital organs - kidneys, liver, brain in pregnant mice and paired offspring. Microbiological, biochemical, and histological research methods were used in the work. Empirically selected commercial colloidal nanosilver preparations ("Ajenta", "Vitargol") recommended for internal use in humans at a therapeutic dose were used in an in vivo experiment by 30-day watering of pregnant mice. As a result, the large intestine microbiome balance was restored due to decreased in number of pathogens: enterobacteria, Staphylococcus and candida. In the coprofiltrates of both groups of mice receiving both "Adjenta" and "Vitargol", the state of local nonspecific resistance showed impaired local antiradical protection. If after Adjenta therapy there was an imbalance in antioxidant enzyme system, when the activity of superoxide dismutase was 1,5 times higher than control level, and catalase activity was 2 times lower contributing to higher level of peroxidation product - malondialdehyde by 2,6 times, then after Vitargol therapy activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase was only 43% and 25%, and the amount of malondialdehyde peaked reaching 431%. Microscopic examination of all organ biopsies from mice receiving commercial colloidal nanosilver preparations "Ajenta" and "Vitargol" revealed no fundamental differences. At the same time, morphological changes in tissues were found in all animals: granular dystrophy of hepatocytes, nephrocytes of the proximal and distal tubules, perinuclearly in liver preparations there is a cytoplasm enlightenment in some liver cell types. In all brain samples, there is moderate perivascular-pericellular edema, vascular fullness, neuron dystrophy. However, breast-fed mouse pup liver histological examination from paired female mice after oral Vitargol intake revealed no negative changes.
Despite the fact that the processes of gestation and childbirth in mice proceeded normally, the results of the study indicate insufficient safety of the selected drugs for oral use during pregnancy.
Current perspectives of virotherapy as a cancer treatment strategy
Authors: Vlasova Lyubov D.
Published: December 2024

Analysis of scientific literature presented in the main databases (PubMed, CyberLeninka, Google Scholar, Scopus) evidence that after cardiovascular diseases malignant tumors hold the second place among the most common causes of mortality in both developed and developing countries, with therapy of oncological diseases requiring to seek out for new approaches, since many types of malignant tumors are resistant to traditional treatment methods. The review was aimed at assessing a potential of virotherapy application for treatment of oncologic diseases in modern conditions. The review evaluates one of treatment methods for oncologic diseases based on using oncolytic viruses, including 9 families (Herpesviridae, Adenoviridae, Picornaviridae, Parvoviridae, Reoviridae, Poxviridae, Paramyxoviridae, Togaviridae, Rhabdoviridae) — a virotherapy, and briefly outlines its development, including Russia. The described mechanisms of action for oncolytic viruses are divided into two groups: i) recognition by oncolytic viruses of specific receptors on tumor cells, their infection and destruction via autophagy, necrosis, apoptosis, pyroptosis or blast pathway; ii) activation of antitumor immunity. Molecular basement of oncolytic virus action is discussed including types of virotherapy application, opportunity to combine oncolytic virus therapy with other means of oncologic diseases treatment. Some drugs based on such approaches are described, particularly talimogene laherparepvec (TVEC) that was approved in 2015 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Clinical trials with oncolytic virus-based drugs and their results are presented. It is concluded that virotherapy is a promising direction in treatment of oncologic diseases, which has a number of advantages over traditional methods of treatment, but at the same time has a number of disadvantages and requires further investigation.
Heterogeneity of virulence factors among Porphyromonas gingivalis clinical isolates from patients with chronic generalized periodontitis
Authors: Koroleva I. V. , Mikhailova Ekaterina S. , Privalova K. A. , Ermolaeva L. A. , Tumanova S. A. , Suvorov A. N.
Published: December 2024

The development of chronic generalized periodontitis occurs due to a combination of a several causes, among which the leading role is assigned to periodontal pathogens, which include P. gingivalis. Among P. gingivalis virulence factors, the polysaccharide capsule, fimbria proteins, cysteine proteases, and hemagglutinins are of special importance. The study was aimed to investigate the prevalence of specific virulence genes and identify a virulent genotype among P. gingivalis isolates found in patients with severe chronic generalized periodontitis (CGP). 41 patients (27 women and 14 men, average age 43.9±1.5 years) were examined, of which main and control group consisted of 22 patients with severe CGP and 19 patients without inflammatory periodontal diseases, respectively. The PCR data allow to consider type II fimbria (FimA II), arginine-dependent type A protease (RghA) and lysine-dependent protease (Kgh) as specific markers for the detection of more virulent P. gingivalis strains. It was found that in St. Petersburg, the following P. gingivalis genotypes predominate among patients with severe CGP: fimA II:kg:rghA, fimA II:kgh and fimA II:rghA. In addition, it has been demonstrated that virulent genotypes are detected to a small extent in P. gingivalis isolates from healthy control group patients. The identification of P. gingivalis strains with a more prominent pathogenic potential and the detection of their virulent genotypes is of great practical importance, in the future allowing to develop advanced effective methods for disease prevention to be used in a personalized medicine strategy. The results obtained are also of high importance due to the recorded variability in the circulation of P. gingivalis strain genotypes in various worldwide regions.
Expression of CCR6 on Helicobacter pylori-specific circulating CD4+ T cells
Authors: Talayev Vladimir Yu. , Zaichenko I. Ye. , Svetlova M. V. , Voronina E. V. , Babaykina O. N. , Neumoina N. V. , Perfilova K. M.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. Helicobacter pylori can infect human gastric mucosa and cause various pathological conditions. In the blood of H. pylori-infected patients, the level of mature CD4+CCR6+ T-lymphocytes, especially pro-inflammatory CCR6+ T-helper types 1 and 17, significantly increases. Chemokine receptor CCR6 can direct cell migration from the blood into the inflamed gastric mucosa. In this work, we assessed the in vitro response of circulating CD4+CCR6+ and CD4+CCR6– T cells against H. pylori antigens in infected and intact individuals. Materials and methods. Monocytes and lymphocytes were isolated from blood samples. Monocytes were incubated with or without H. pylori. Monocyte expression of CD14, CD80 and CD86 was assessed, and monocytes were also used to stimulate syngeneic lymphocytes. Antigen-specific lymphocyte response was assessed by proliferation and expression of the activation marker OX40 on CD4+CCR6+ and CD4+CCR6– T cells. Results. Preliminary experiments have shown that incubation of monocytes with H. pylori causes a modestly increased expression of the costimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86 on monocytes and a slightly higher level of monocyte potential to stimulate syngeneic lymphocyte proliferation. Evaluation of OX40 expression in an in vitro antigen presentation model showed that blood CD4+ T lymphocytes from infected patients contain cells that are activated by H. pylori antigens. In patients with H. pylori infection, the CD4+CCR6+ vs CD4+CCR6– lymphocyte subset contains a larger number of H. pylori antigen-specific cells. In the comparison group without H. pylori infection, the presentation of H. pylori antigens in blood cell cultures did not have a significant effect on the average rates of CD4+ T-lymphocyte activation. Conclusion. The blood of patients with H. pylori infection contains CD4+ T cells that are activated in the presence of H. pylori antigens. Blood CD4+CCR6+ vs CD4+CCR6– T cells from patients with H. pylori infection contain a greater number of antigen-specific lymphocytes.
Influenza B virus evolution: diversity of biological properties through the prism of genetic variability
Authors: Kiseleva Irina V. , Larionova N. V. , Zheltukhina A. I.
Published: December 2024

Although the history of the influenza virus existence goes back thousands of years, the first human influenza A virus was discovered only in 1933, when proper models and substrates for virus isolation became available; then the influenza B virus was isolated and, some later, the influenza C virus. Influenza A viruses evolve most rapidly. Influenza B viruses mutate 2–3 times slower, with influenza C viruses being most conservative. From the moment of isolation until the end of the 1970s, the antigenic evolution of influenza B viruses proceeded smoothly; the isolates were genetically quite homogeneous. In the 1970s–1980s, influenza B viruses diverged into two genetic lineages, “B/Victoria/2/87-like virus lineage” and the “B/Yamagata/16/88-like virus lineage”. For some time, B/Yamagata lineage viruses were widespread throughout the world, while the circulation area of B/Victoria viruses was limited to East Asia. Then the Victorian lineage began its triumphal march across the globe. From this moment on, both lineages of influenza B virus circulated together, with dominance of one or the other lineage in different geographic regions and different epidemiological seasons. Later, the B/Yamagata lineage dominated in many countries, but by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Victorian viruses were already dominant. At the same time, the last representatives of the B/Yamagata lineage were identified. Today, the B/Yamagata lineage has disappeared from circulation and the WHO has concluded that its inclusion in influenza vaccine strains is no longer necessary. Antigenic variability undoubtedly plays a decisive role in the virus evolution. It is accompanied by changes in biological characteristics that, to one degree or another, determine the virus’s ability to self-preserve. No matter how antigenically new a next influenza virus variant is, it will bear a certain set of biological properties, the combination of which will allow the pathogen to best survive in sensitive host. In this review, we have summarized information on the most striking biological properties of influenza B viruses, such as sensitivity to nonspecific blood serum inhibitors, hemagglutinin receptor specificity, its thermostability, sensitivity to low pH values, and temperature sensitivity of reproduction.
Importance of virological surveillance after migrants from polio high-risk territories for poliomyelitis monitoring in the Russian Federation
Authors: Kanaeva Olga I. , Romanenkova N. I. , Evseeva V. A. , Tolstykh N. A. , Pogrebnaya T. N. , Blokhinova M. A. , Antonenkov K. A.
Published: December 2024

The results of virologically examined biological material collected from children and poliovirus-specific immunity arrived in the Russian Federation from polio high risk territories were analyzed. Over a ten-year period (2014–2023), more than 3.300 samples were examined at the Subnational WHO Laboratory in St. Petersburg. Most of the examined children arrived in different regions of the Russian Federation from the Republics of Tajikistan (56.5%) or Uzbekistan (6.2%) and from Ukraine (5.8%). Children who arrived from the North Caucasus were also examined comprising 22.2% examined cases. Polioviruses (65 PV) were isolated from 55 children during virological study. Most isolated strains were classified as types 1 and 3 polioviruses, with six strains classified as type 2. Only vaccine polioviruses were found, including type 2 polioviruses according to the ITD results. One PV2 strain was isolated from a child from Kyrgyzstan in 2014, and five PV2 strains from the new nOPV2 vaccine were isolated from Tajik children in 2021 after using nOPV2 vaccine to suppress cVDPV2 circulation in Tajikistan. Analysis of vaccination status in children arrived from high polio risk territories revealed problems poor immunization coverage in relevant place of residence. More than a third of children had no vaccination records, about 9% children had no polio vaccination for various reasons including medical exemptions and refusals of parents to vaccinate, another 12% were vaccinated incompletely. A comparatively analyzed effectiveness of polio vaccination for children resident in the Russian Federation and those who arrived from Tajikistan also evidenced poor polio immunization coverage in the latter. Many children from Tajikistan had no antibodies specific to polioviruses of different types, and 11–12% of children did not have antibodies to all three or two vaccine poliovirus types (according to the 2006–2010 or 2014–2020 vaccination schedules). The data obtained confirm the importance and need for epidemiological and virological surveillance for residents arrived from polio high risk territories in Russia within poliomyelitis control programme in the Russian Federation.
IMMUNOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC OPISTHORCHIASIS COUPLED TO MUTANT GENES ASSOCIATED WITH PREDISPOSITION TO ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Grigorieva Svetlana , Stepanova Xenia , Stepanova T.F. Tatyana , Ozerova Anastasia , Bakshtanovskaya Irina , Kalgina G.A Galina , Kurlaeva Lyubov
Published: December 2024

To identify the features of immune system functioning in patients with chronic opisthorchiasis coupled to mutant gene loci associated with arterial hypertension predisposition, comprehensive studies on innate and adaptive immunity were conducted. The state of neutrophil engulfment and bactericidal activity was assessed. The phenotype of lymphocytes was determined by flow cytometry. The humoral arm of the immune system was assessed by quantitating total immunoglobulins of classes M, G, A and E. Gene polymorphisms were detected by pyrosequencing. The predisposition to arterial hypertension development was assessed by assessing polymorphisms in the gene loci: ARDB2 rs1042713; AGT rs4762; AGT rs699; AGTR1 rs5186; NOS3 rs1799983. In patients with chronic opisthorchiasis with and without polymorphisms AGT rs4762 and AGTR1 rs5186, had no difference in immune response. Patients with vs. without ARDB2 rs1042713 had suppressed humoral (reduced total IgE) along with activated innate immune response in chronic opisthorchiasis (increased absolute count of leukocytes and monocytes). In the group with the rare AGT rs699 vs. common allele there was a decrease in the percentage of lymphocytes, a lower total IgM level and increased percentage of B lymphocytes. Immune indicators in patients with chronic opisthorchiasis with vs. without rs1799983 mutation in the NOS3 gene had higher neutrophil bactericidal potential (stimulated nitrosine tetrazolium test (NST test)) along with percentage of T-helper cells (CD4+).
LEUKOCYE PHAGOCYTIC ACTIVITY AND NTB TEST IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTRITIS DURING VACCINATION WITH PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE
Authors: Batozhargalova Bairma Ts. , Kostinov Mikhail P. , Bisheva Irina V. , Kurbatova Ekaterina A. , Shmitko Anna D. , Lukina Galina V , Murtazalieva Jamilya A. , Skhodova Svetlana A. , Blagovidov Dmitry A.
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an joint autoimmune inflammatory disease characterized by systemic destructive and progressive inflammatory synovitis caused by chemokines, reactive oxygen species, and proinflammatory cytokines produced by neutrophils and macrophages in the synovial membrane.
Objective: to study the indices of leukocyte phagocytic activity and factors of leukocyte oxygen-dependent bactericidal activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving methotrexate (MT) and tofacitinib (TOFA), vaccinated with a conjugate pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13).
Objective: to study indicators of leukocyte phagocytic activity and factors of leukocyte oxygen-dependent bactericidal activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving methotrexate (MTX) and tofacitinib (TOFA), vaccinated with pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13).
Materials and methods: the study included 151 patients with RA (78.1% women and 21.9% men aged 26-69 years). PCV13 vaccination was carried out once in a dose of 0.5 ml intramuscularly in subjects receiving TOFA and MTX; TOFA was initiated 10-14 days after vaccination; those in comparison groups received same drugs. At the time of inclusion in the study, and during control visits 3 months and 12 months later, leukocyte phagocytic activity and NCT test were carried out.
Results: Before the study, patients had minor quantitative and functional changes in leukocyte phagocytic activity and a decrease in the reserve capacity of oxygen-dependent bactericidal activity. In PCV13 vaccinated patients receiving TOFA (Group II), a minor decrease in the phagocytic activity of neutrophilic granulocytes was determined. In unvaccinated patients from group V receiving TOFA therapy, an increase in monocyte absorptive activity was observed both 3 months and 12 months later. In PCV13 vaccinated RA patients from group II receiving TOFA, similar changes were noted. Methotrexate therapy in PCV13 vaccinated and unvaccinated patients did not affect leukocyte phagocytic activity.
Conclusion: In patients with RA, PCV13 caused a slight decrease in neutrophil absorptive capacity, which was restored one year post-vaccination accompanied by higher leukocyte oxygen-dependent bactericidal activity in the form of ROS production, which helps to strengthen immune defense in patients encountering potential pathogens.