bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid droplet formation induced by icaritin derivative IC2 promotes a combination strategy for cancer therapy
Authors: Wu Guosheng , Ying Liang , Zhang Qian , Xiong He , Wang Jie , Chen Sitao , Yang Chen , Jin Yiyuan , Lai Zengwei , Feng Ninghan , Ge Yunjun
Published: December 2024

Background Lipid metabolism is crucial in cancer progression. Lipid droplets (LDs) generated in cancer cells can act as protective mechanisms through alleviating lipotoxicity under stress conditions. We previously developed IC2 from the Chinese medicine icaritin as an inhibitor of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1). IC2 has been shown to disrupt lipid metabolism and inhibits cancer cell proliferation. However, the impact of IC2 on intracellular LDs and the potential of targeting LD formation for combination cancer therapy remain unexplored.Methods LD formation in cancer cells was analyzed with oil red O or BODIPY staining by microscopy. LD quantification was normalized to the cell number. IC2-induced cellular responses were revealed by transcriptional analysis, real-time PCR, and immunoblotting. Mitochondrial functions were assessed by measuring ATP production and oxygen consumption. The lipid source for LD formation was studied using lipid transporter inhibitors or lipid deprivation. The effect of inhibiting LD formation on IC2's anti-tumor effects was evaluated using MTT assays and apoptosis assays, which was subsequently validated in an in vivo xenografted tumor model.Results IC2 exerted anti-tumor effects, resulting in LD formation in various cancer cells. LD formation stimulated by IC2 was independent of extracellular lipid sources and did not result from increased de novo fatty acid (FA) synthesis within the cancer cells. Transcriptional analysis indicated that IC2 disturbed mitochondrial functions, which was confirmed by impaired mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reduced capacity for ATP production and oxygen consumption. Moreover, IC2 treatment led to a greater accumulation of lipids in LDs outside the mitochondria compared with the control group. IC2 inhibited the proliferation of PC3 cells and promoted the apoptosis of the cancer cells. These effects were further enhanced after inhibiting the diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1), a key intracellular enzyme involved in LD formation. In PC3-xenografted mice, the DGAT1 inhibitor augmented the IC2-induced reduction in tumor growth by modulating LD formation.Conclusion LD formation is a feedback response to IC2's anti-tumor effects, which compromises the anti-tumor actions. IC2’s anti-tumor efficacy can be enhanced by combining it with inhibitors targeting LD formation. This strategy may be extended to other anti-tumor agents that regulate lipid metabolism.
Profiling the Nasopharyngeal Microbiome in Patients with Community- Acquired Pneumonia Caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae: Diagnostic Challenges and Ecological Insights
Authors: Zubiria-Barrera Cristina , Yamba Linda Yamba , Klassert Tilman E. , Bos Malena , Ahl Jonas , Wasserstrom Lisa , Slevogt Hortense , Riesbeck Kristian
Published: December 2024

Background
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a significant health threat for adults. Although conjugate vaccines have reduced pneumococcal CAP incidence in children, Streptococcus pneumoniae-related CAP remains prevalent among older adults. The nasopharynx acts as a reservoir for S. pneumoniae, yet the interplay between this pathogen and the nasopharyngeal microbiome during and after pneumonia remains poorly understood.
Materials and Methods
This study included 61 adult patients diagnosed with pneumococcal CAP and 61 matched healthy controls. An S. pneumoniae-specific PCR, urine antigen tests and bacterial cultures were performed. Nasopharyngeal swabs collected at admission and three months post-infection were analyzed for microbiome dynamics through 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing.
Results
16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing revealed Streptococcus spp. in the majority of all nasopharyngeal samples during infection compared to the other diagnostic test performed. While overall bacterial biomass did not differ between groups, patients exhibited higher alpha diversity (p = 0.012) and lower microbiome stability post-infection. Beta diversity analysis distinguished infection from healthy status (p = 0.002). Taxonomic analysis showed similar core microbiota across groups, but Streptococcus spp. was significantly more abundant during infection, particularly in those patients with viral co-infections. Notably, unique significant bacterial interactions were identified both during and after infection, as well as in healthy states. A negative correlation was observed between Corynebacterium and Streptococcus spp. in infected patients, suggesting a potential antagonistic interaction between these taxa.
Conclusions
The nasopharyngeal microbiome in patients with pneumococcal CAP demonstrates persistent disruption post-infection, characterized by lower resilience three months after acute illness. Additionally, we identified specific bacterial interplays during and after infection that differed from those in healthy donors. These bacterial dynamics might play critical roles in pathogen colonization resistance and infection prevention. Thus, our findings highlight the need for further investigation into microbial interactions and potential microbiome-based therapies for respiratory infections, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Simulating non-ideal AB5 Metal Hydride Pressure-Concentration- Temperature Isotherms in MATLAB
Authors: DG Faurie , Premlall Kasturie
Published: December 2024

Hydride-forming metal isotherms are complex due to the inherent multi-dimensional pressure-concentration-temperature dependencies. Hydrogen adsorbs to the surface of the hydride forming metal, then dissociating and diffusing into the metal. So doing boding with the metal, a further increase in pressure causes the hydride to undergo a change from low-pressure hydrides to high-pressure hydrides. Naturally, desorption is considered a reverse of the mechanism. These unique phenomena combined pose a challenge to modelling non-ideal gas-metal isotherms with hydrogen concentration as a function of pressure and temperature. This article reports the simulation of non-ideal hydride-forming metals, focusing on AB5-type hydride-forming metals. This was done as a numerical simulation in MATLAB, using a non-ideal gas-metal isotherm model after which the simulations were experimentally validated. The semi-empirical non-ideal model requires numerical methods to solve, making a simulation key for the widespread use of the model. The numerical simulation produced can predict pressure-concentration-temperature isotherms with high accuracy.
Explainable deep learning improves human mental models of self-driving cars
Authors: Kenny Eoin , Dharmavaram Akshay , Lee Sang , Phan-Minh Tung , Rajesh Shreyas , Hu Yunqing , Major Laura , Tomov Momchil , Shah Julie
Published: December 2024

Self-driving cars increasingly rely on deep neural networks to achieve human-like driving [1, 2]. However, the opacity of such black-box motion planners makes it challenging for the human behind the wheel to accurately anticipate when they will fail [3–5], with potentially catastrophic consequences [6–8]. Here, we introduce concept-wrapper network (i.e., CW-Net), a method for explaining the behavior of black-box motion planners by grounding their reasoning in human-interpretable concepts. We deploy CW-Net on a real self-driving car and show that the resulting explanations refine the human driver’s mental model of the car, allowing them to better predict its behavior and adjust their own behavior accordingly. Unlike previous work using toy domains or simulations [9–11], our study presents the first real-world demonstration of how to build authentic autonomous vehicles (AVs) that give interpretable, causally faithful explanations for their decisions, without sacrificing performance. We anticipate our method could be applied to other safety-critical systems with a human in the loop, such as autonomous drones and robotic surgeons. Overall, our study suggests a pathway to explainability for autonomous agents as a whole, which can help make them more transparent, their deployment safer, and their usage more ethical.
Potosia opaca Fabricius 1787 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae, Cetoniinae): A new pest on date palm (Phoenix dactylifera l.) from Algerian Oases
Authors: Mehaoua Mohamed Seghir , Bedjaoui Hanane , Mimeche Fateh , Matallah Adlen , Boubakeur Nabil , Hadjeb Ayoub
Published: December 2024

In Algeria, date palm cultivation is the most important speculation in the South-East of the country. Since 2012, the Ziban oases have been attacked by a new pest detected on palm trees of the Deglet Nour variety. The xylophagous larvae of this insect destroy the fibrillium commonly called “Lif” in the axils of the palms. This damage is responsible for the phenomenon of palms subsidence observed in palm groves. Based on sampling of L2 and L3 larvae, a mass rearing was conducted to characterize and identify this pest after adult’s emergence. The results of this study allowed the identification of a new species of beetle dependent on the date palm Potosia (Protaetia) opaca Fabricius, 1787 belonging to the Scarabaeidae family and the Cetoniinae subfamily. The morphometric measurements carried out on the different stages of development allowed the characterization of the second and third larval stages, the nymph, the cocoon and the adult of P. opaca. More in-depth studies are needed on the bioecology and the extent of the damage of this pest in order to establish an adequate control program.
A Theory-Based Ferritin-Procalcitonin Ratio Differentiates COVID-19 Pneumonia vs Bacterial Pneumonia
Authors: Shapiro Leland , Salinas Jorge L , Rodriguez-Nava Guillermo , Shen Sa , Chastain Daniel B. , Franco-Paredes Carlos , Connelly Patrick , Bastias Alfonso G. , Scherger Sias , Henao-Martínez Andrés F.
Published: December 2024

Background: Rapid and inexpensive biomarker-based clinical instruments that can diagnose infectious diseases are desired, but developing clinical instruments has proved challenging. Proliferation of large clinical databases and expansive computational capability risks uncovering spurious associations that cannot be reproduced.
Objectives: We present an approach to biomarker instrument creation that may enhance clinical applicability. We prospectively derived a biomarker instrument from a theoretical model of infection pathogenesis. Our theory-derived ferritin/procalcitonin (ferritin/PCT) ratio was designed to differentiate Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia from bacterial pneumonias.
Materials and Methods: We assessed this ratio in over 30,000 patients in the TrinetX global database containing over 200 million patients.
Results: Ferritin/PCT was significantly increased in COVID-19 pneumonia patients compared to bacterial pneumonia pateints. Ferritin/PCT accuracy for separating pneumonia due to COVID-19 vs Pneumococcus was assessed by calculating area under Receiver Operating Characteristic curve, which revealed a value of 0. 812.
Conclusions: The ferritin/PCT ratio may have clinical use for differentiating COVID-19 pneumonia vs Pneumococcal pneumonia. Calculating the ferritin/PCT ratio is easy, rapid, and inexpensive. Clinical utility in resource-poor locations is an especially attractive application. Moreover, the conceptual model of infection pathogenesis that underlies this ratio may have broad applicability to differentiate other viral from bacterial infections.
Supervised and unsupervised analysis of feature drift in a new type of detector
Authors: Porwik Piotr , Orczyk Tomasz , Japkowicz Nathalie
Published: December 2024

Data stream analysis is a rapidly growing field driven by the prevalence of massive, dynamic datasets across various domains, including science, medicine, biometrics, and technology. Many data streams are inherently non-homogeneous, highly variable over time, and non-stationary, presenting unique challenges for machine learning applications. This paper addresses the underexplored phenomenon of feature drift—a type of drift where the importance of certain features diminishes while others become more relevant for predictive modeling. Feature drift necessitates continuous monitoring and adaptation of classification models to ensure high-quality predictions. We propose a novel feature drift detection algorithm that operates flexibly in supervised and unsupervised modes. The algorithm is evaluated using synthetic and real-world datasets, demonstrating its ability to effectively detect and adapt to feature drift. Additionally, we investigate various drift scenarios and assess the algorithm’s performance across multiple features. Comparative analyses with state-of-the-art methods highlight the strengths of our approach in maintaining robust classification accuracy and reducing false detections. This research contributes to advancing adaptive machine-learning techniques for dynamic, real-world environments.
The real costs of financial fragility shocks in the Italian regions
Authors: Frangiamore Francesco
Published: December 2024

In this study, I focus on the dynamic effects of financial fragility shocks on unemployment using a Bayesian vector autoregression (VAR). The contribution to the existing literature is threefold. First, I use quarterly data covering an extensive period for the 20 Italian regions, ranging from 1997-Q1 to 2023-Q3. In particular, the regional time series considered are two already available, namely the bad loans rate and the unemployment rate, and the interest rates that I reconstructed from the Bank of Italy. Moreover, the extensive regional time series dataset allows to estimate region specific effects of financial fragility on the unemployment rate. Finally, I identify a financial fragility shock as one that increases both the bad loans rate and bank interest rates. The results show that sudden increases in financial fragility have important negative effects, and the least developed regions are the hardest hit. I also show that that the regional heterogenous negative effects on unemployment are positively associated with regional credit risk, unemployment rate levels and the regional share of temporary workers, and negatively correlated with regional economic and financial development levels, regional competitiveness, labour market efficiency and education levels.
JEL codes: A10; C32; E00; R10.
Artificial Induction of Polyploidy in Blueberry Breeding: A Review
Authors: Chu Ye , Lyrene Paul M.
Published: December 2024

Blueberry planted acreage has increased rapidly during the past four decades, and blueberry consumption has kept pace. The environments across blueberry growing regions are highly heterogeneous. Variable factors include weather, soils, cultivation practices, biotic stress, and abiotic stress. Broadening the genetic diversity of the blueberry breeding gene pool will enable the development of blueberry cultivars adapted to specific growing regions. The primary gene pool for blueberry breeders includes cultivated tetraploids and hexaploids. The tetraploids include cultivars and advanced selections of northern highbush, southern highbush, lowbush, and half highbush; the hexaploids are the rabbiteye cultivars. The secondary gene pool encompasses diploid, tetraploid, and hexaploid wild blueberries in Vaccinium section Cyanococcus. The tertiary gene pool consists of 300 to 400 Vaccinium species in sections other than Cyanococcus. These are native to many parts of the world. Blueberry breeding began with interspecific hybrids in section Cyanococcus. Subsequent breeding has used diploid, tetraploid, and hexaploid Cyanococcus species with limited use of species from other Vaccinium sections. A strong triploid block and partial to total sterility in progeny from heteroploid crosses have limited the use of some species in breeding. Unreduced gametes allow the production of tetraploid hybrids from diploid × tetraploid crosses and hexaploid hybrids from triploid × hexaploid and triploid × triploid crosses. Production of polyploids by in vitro and in vivo treatments with antimitotic agents can expedite interspecific and intersectional hybridization. This review addresses the contribution of artificial induction of polyploidy to blueberry genetic improvement and discusses additional possible applications of artificial induction of polyploidy for blueberry breeding.
Studi Elemen Struktur Rumah Tradisional Mbaru Niang
Authors: Zulkarnain Mentari Murti Lasarasi , Arifin Lilianny Sigit , Damayanti Rully
Published: December 2024

Title: Study of Structural Elements of Traditional Mbaru Niang House
TraTraditional houses are built using natural materials and environmentally friendly construction techniques, taking into account climate, topography, and local culture. The connection structures in traditional houses are closely related to responding to local climate conditions. For example, the connections in the traditional house of Mbaru Niang in Wae Rebo, NTT, can withstand wind and earthquake loads due to its location in the mountains, which are prone to earthquakes and tornadoes. This study aims to analyze the connection structure in the Mbaru Niang traditional house using Iwamura's sustainability theory. The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative, collecting data from previous literature. The results show that the structure of Mbaru Niang is formed by the material characteristics sourced from the environment by the Wae Rebo community, which are used according to their natural properties, such as worok wood and bamboo, which are flexible materials, allowing the building structure to adapt to the flexibility of the materials. Flexibility can also be seen in the connection techniques that withstand earthquake loads and wind forces. This finding will produce a design proposal for connection techniques in contemporary buildings inspired by the local wisdom of connection techniques in Mbaru Niang houses.
Employees’ perception of green corporate social responsibility and green behavior in nonprofit organizations: The case of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alharthi Sager , Alghamdi Amirah
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the perception of green corporate social responsibility (GCSR) among employees and its consequent effects on sustainability behaviors within nonprofit organizations (NPOs). Additionally, it examines how engagement in environmentally responsible behaviors influences organizational elements such as communication strategies, leadership support, and the implementation of sustainability initiatives. Through questionnaires, data were gathered from 355 NPO employees in Saudi Arabia to quantitatively survey their perceptions, attitudes, and engagement related to environmental sustainability practices within their organizations. The information was examined using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. Employee perception of GCSR was found to have a positive and significant impact on awareness of environmental sustainability, attitudes toward environmental sustainability, and engagement in environmentally responsible behaviors, with a high coefficient. Moreover, engagement in environmentally responsible behaviors was discovered to exert a positive and significant impact on communication strategies, leadership support, and implementation of sustainability behavior, with a high coefficient. These findings have practical implications for NPO managers aiming to enhance their GCSR strategies, promote environmental sustainability among employees, and integrate sustainability into their core operations.
Microbiota of the ocular surface in infectious/ inflammatory eye diseases
Authors: Bikbov M. M. , Orenburkina O. I. , Babushkin A. E.
Published: December 2024

The review article presents current data on the microbiota (MBT) of the ocular surface in infectious and inflammatory eye diseases. Saprophytic MBT increases the resistance of the ocular surface to pathogenic bacteria. Commensal microorganisms regulate host metabolism, immune system development, and defense of the host against pathogen invasion. Meanwhile, ocular surfaces can change due to various environmental factors, processes in the human body, and in particular, due to ophthalmological diseases. Damaged epithelium of the cornea and conjunctiva (e. g. caused by dryness, the use of contact lenses, antibiotics, etc.) can lead to an increase in the number of bacteria on the ocular surface and disruption of the protective film containing antimicrobial compounds that lubricates the epithelium. In recent years, a connection has been shown between changes in the composition of the ocular MBT and a number of infectious and inflammatory ophthalmological diseases. In particular, it turned out that factors influencing the formation of tear fluid can change the MBT of the ocular surface, and when its composition deteriorates, ocular surface may become dry. An increase in the number of pathogenic microorganisms when wearing contact lenses, especially gram-negative ones, can lead to changes in the MBT and the development of keratitis. In inflammatory eye diseases, gram-positive microflora is most often isolated (in 94 % of cases), of which coagulaze negative staphylococci are most often recorded. In bacterial eye infections. conditionally pathogenic microflora often occurs (44.5 %). Apparently, intestinal MBT plays a very significant role in the development of some inflammatory eye diseases such as anterior and posterior uveitis.
Micropulse cyclophotocoagulation in the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma and congenital glaucoma. Part 1: hypotensive effect mechanisms, modern procedure protocol
Authors: Ermakova O. V. , Ragozina E. A.
Published: December 2024

Micropulse cyclophotocoagulation (MP-CPC) refers to interventions that reduce intraocular pressure by laser exposure on the ciliary body, while the term “coagulation” in its name does not reflect the essence of the procedure, but is inherited from the previous continuous laser version. Unlike other methods that target ciliary body, MP-CPC is considered the safest procedure due to its special laser action mode and the absence of a coagulative effect. In the first part of our review, we would like to focus on the history, mechanisms of action and procedure protocol of micropulse cyclophotocoagulation.
Immunologic and clinical features of bacterial uveitis
Authors: Kleshcheva E. A. , Kochergin S. A. , Arzhimatova G. Sh. , Kleshchev A. E. , Mel'nikova N. V. , Shirshova E. V.
Published: December 2024

Bacterial infection is one of the etiologic factors of inflammation of the uvea. Bacterial agents capable of provoking the development of uveitis are numerous and diverse (Gram-positive and Gram-negative; bacilli, cocci, and flagellates; aerobic and anaerobic). It is important to note that bacterial infection can cause uveal inflammation through several pathogenetic pathways. Direct exposure to microorganisms and products of their vital activity is only one of the realized pathological influences. The pathogenetic mechanisms of uveal inflammation development are not completely clear, but the leading role is currently attributed to activation of Toll-like and Nod-like receptors by bacterial antigens with subsequent triggering of a cascade of reactions leading to the production of inflammatory cytokines. In addition, a significant role is given to autoimmune processes, as a result of which cross-reactivity to bacterial antigens and similar antigens of the ocular vasculature develops. The peculiarities of pathogenesis provide the peculiarities of the clinical picture of bacterial uveitis, which is characterized by granulomatous type of inflammation. The exception is uveitis developing due to the predominance of autoimmune component in the development of the disease, which determines pathomorphological nongranulomatous type of inflammation. In this review immunologic mechanisms of bacterial uveitis development are given, pathogenesis of syphilitic, tuberculous, post-streptococcal uveitis is considered in more detail. Pathomorphologic and clinical features of bacterial uveitis are described. The role of modern drugs in the treatment of bacterial inflammation of the ocular vasculature is evaluated.
Neuroinflammation as a factor of pathogenesis of glaucomatous optic neuropathy
Authors: Pavlenko T. A. , Petrov S. Yu. , Iomdina E. N.
Published: December 2024

The modern pathogenesis of the neurodegenerative process in glaucoma identifies several key risk factors for its development: ischemia/hypoxia, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. An analysis of recent studies shows that in glaucomatous optic neuropathy, as in other neurodegenerative diseases, the immune system is involved in the pathological process, and immunoregulation is carried out mainly by retinal glial cells, microglia, astrocytes, Müller cells and the complement system. Chronic activation of glial cells caused by increased intraocular pressure in glaucoma can provoke a pro-inflammatory state at the retinal level, causing disruption of the blood-retinal barrier and death of retinal ganglion cells. The review presents pro-inflammatory markers of glaucoma, immunomodulatory and pro-inflammatory mediators, shows the role of a number of metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines in the development of glaucoma.
Latanoprost in the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Petrov S. Yu. , Markelova O. I.
Published: December 2024

Latanoprost, an analogue of class F2α prostaglandins, has been on the glaucoma hypotensive treatment market for almost 30 years, being the drug of first choice due to its high efficiency, good tolerability and minimal dosage. The drug is effective in all ages and is approved in pediatric practice from 1 year. According to numerous studies, latanoprost monotherapy can reduce IOP by an average of 22–39 % from the initial level over several years; a decrease in the hypotensive effect over time has not been noted. Latanoprost is compatible with all other groups of antiglaucoma drugs, demonstrating an additive effect.
Quantitative assessment of the inflammatory reaction in the anterior chamber of the eye according to optical coherent tomograrhy data in standard cases of routine cataract surgery and in patients with concomitant ophthalmological and systemic pathology
Authors: Kulikov A. N. , Danilenko E. V. , Tulin D. V. , Dzilihov A. A. , Nevin N. V. , Kuznetsov A. R.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: to determine the risk factors of the inflammatory reaction in the anterior chamber aqueous humor in routine cataract surgery of patients with concomitant ophthalmological and systemic pathology based on a quantitative assessment of the eye anterior segment optical coherent tomography (OCT) data.

Material and methods. The study enrolled 60 patients aged 38 to 85 years, 45 % of them were men. Before planned phacoemulsification, a standard ophthalmological examination, the eyelids status assessment, parameters of the lacrimal meniscus, calculation of cell in the anterior chamber using OCT were performed, also general clinical data were analyzed. 2 groups were analyzed: group 1 — risk group — 30 patients with symptoms of inflammatory reaction according to a blood test, paraocular foci of chronic infection and diabetes mellitus, as well as those who had chronic blepharitis, group 2 control — 30 patients without these signs. Biomicroscopy and anterior segment OCT were performed before and 4 hours after the surgery, as well as on days 1, 7, and 14.

Results. Group 1 patients had cytosis of 2.5 cells (0-20) in the anterior chamber humor at the preoperative stage. Cells were detected in 57.58 % of cases (p = 0.000), but in no case in group 2. In the first hours after surgery, the same frequency of humor opalescence fibrinoid reaction and ophthalmohypertension was observed in the groups, but the frequency of corneal tunnel edema in group 1 was significantly higher (p = 0.048). In the first hours after the intervention, the cell suspension in the aqueous humor was more intense in patients of the risk group; in all cases the number of cells progressively decreased and leveled out between the groups. Correlation analysis showed the relationship between the severity of cell suspension and opalescence of the anterior chamber humor with the presence of cytosis at the preoperative stage (R = 0.88, p = 0.002), the type of IOL chosen (R = 0.74, p = 0.021) and the presence of diabetes mellitus in history (R = 0.82, p = 0.007).

Conclusions. Usage of precise imaging techniques to assess anterior chamber humor cytosis is a convenient, objective, and reliable method. The presence of cell suspension in the anterior chamber aqueous before surgery, especially in elderly patients with diabetes mellitus, is a prognostic factor for a more expressed inflammatory reaction of the anterior segment in uncomplicated phacoemulsification.
The alternative approach to epiretinal fibrosis surgery
Authors: Lyskin P. V. , Makarenko I. R. , Chucanin O. A.
Published: December 2024

Purpose. To evaluate the possibility of removal of epiretinal fibrosis (ERF) with complete saving of the internal limiting membrane (ILM) to reduce the risk of iatrogenic intraoperative trauma associated with the procedure of ILM removing, and postoperative complications associated with retinal nerve fiber layer damage developing as a result of ILM removing.

Material and methods. The study included 54 patients with ERF, whose average age was 69.5 years. In the course of surgical treatment, it was planned to remove the epiretinal membrane (ERM) with an attempt to completely ILM saving. In all cases, after removal of the vitreous, epiretinal structures were stained with MembranBlue Dual and ERM was removed, trying to completely ILM saving. The anatomical result was evaluated according to optical coherence tomography. The functional result was evaluated according to the indicators of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). The maximum follow-up period was 12 months.

Results. It was possible to remove the ERM with complete ILM saving in 26 (48.14 %) patients, in 28 (51.86 %) the ERM was removed in a single unit with the ILM. In all cases, the postoperative period proceeded without peculiarities and complications. At a follow-up examination after 3 months, all 54 patients showed an increase of BCVA compared to preoperative value. There was no BCVA decrease in any case during this follow-up period. In cases of the ERM removal with the ILM saving in the long-term postoperative period (12 months), no recurrence of ERF was recorded, as in cases where the ILM was removed.

Conclusions. It was possible to reduce intraoperative retinal injury due to the ILM saving during the ERM removal in 48.14 % of cases, using standard vitreoretinal instruments and techniques. According to the study, the ILM saving does not lead to a recurrence of ERF in the long-term postoperative period.
Efficacy and safety of 0.1 % brimonidine as a starting monotherapy and when added to combination therapy of glaucoma
Authors: Semenov E. D. , Antonov A. A. , Hadiri Kh. , Aghajanyan T. M.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: to analyze the efficacy and safety of Santabrim® as a starting monotherapy and when added to combination therapy for glaucoma.

Material and methods. The study was conducted on 60 patients (60 eyes), including 21 (35 %) men and 39 (65 %) women, with initial or advanced primary open-angle glaucoma with moderately elevated IOP. The average age of patients was 63.4 years. The first group (30 eyes) consisted of patients who were prescribed Santabrim® 2 times a day as a starting monotherapy. The second group consisted of patients (30 eyes) who had an enhanced regimen using Santabrim® 2 times a day as a third drug. To analyze the hypotensive effect, the data of corneally compensated IOP were compared at the first visit and 1 month after the appointment or enhancement of the local hypotensive regimen. Safety was assessed by comparing the degree of fluorescein staining of the cornea, conjunctival hyperemia, OSDI questionnaire indicators and the level of adherence to treatment at the appropriate time in two groups of patients.

Results. Santabrim® significantly reduces the level of IOP. The use of the drug as monotherapy allows to reduce IOP by 26.3 % of the initial level. Strengthening combination therapy by adding Santabrem® as a third drug allows reducing the level of IOP by an additional 15.9 %. Objective indicators of the condition of the tissues of the anterior surface of the eye have not changed significantly. Based on the results of the assessment of the main signs of dry eye syndrome (OSDI) and the degree of patient adherence to treatment, no significant changes were revealed.

Conclusion. Brimonidine 0.1 % (Santabrim®) can be recommended for the hypotensive treatment of glaucoma both in monotherapy and in combination with other groups of local instillation drugs, and its direct neuroprotective effect additionally contributes to the stabilization of glaucoma opticoneuropathy.
Long-term results of treatment of amblyopia in children with impaired fixation mechanism using biofeedback
Authors: Tarutta E. P. , Stalmakhova R. R. , Milash S. V. , Apaev A. V.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: to evaluate the long-term results (1 year) of a new method of treating amblyopia in children with unstable central and eccentric fixation using microperimetric biofeedback, as well as to develop a protocol for patients monitoring after treatment and clear criteria for prescribing repeated courses of treatment using microperimetric biofeedback.

Material and methods. The study included 21 patients (21 eyes) aged from 5 to 15 years (ave 8.28 ± 3.08) who were able to perform training sessions on the MP-3 microperimeter (MP, Nidek, Japan). Treatment was carried out on the MP using visual (flickering checkerboard pattern) and sound (sound signal) biofeedback: 10–15 sessions, 10–12 minutes each. All patients were examined before treatment, immediately and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the treatment. Dynamic observation of patients and prescription of repeated courses of treatment were carried out in accordance with the developed protocol.

Results. After 1 course of treatment, a significant increase in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was detected in 90.4 % of patients, as well as an improvement in all fixation parameters: a significant increase in density by 2° and 4°, a decrease in amplitude by ≈ 50 %; a tendency to increase the functional parameters of the retina in the macular area. During follow-up (1 year), 13 patients (1 patient with central fixation and 12 patients with eccentric fixation) underwent additional courses of biofeedback therapy in accordance with the developed protocol. In 4 patients with eccentric fixation, mainly peripheral, despite improvement in fixation parameters, no additional positive dynamics in visual acuity were noted after a repeated course of biofeedback therapy. In 8 patients, after a repeated course of treatment of amblyopia using biofeedback therapy, positive dynamics were noted, namely: an increase in density and a decrease in the amplitude of fixation, and an increase in BCVA.

Conclusion. The effectiveness and safety of a previously developed method of treating amblyopia with impaired fixation mechanism using biofeedback therapy has been demonstrated. A protocol for dynamic monitoring of patients with amblyopia after biofeedback therapy and criteria for prescribing additional courses of training sessions have been developed.
Evaluation of the efficacy of surgical treatment of cataracts in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Fursova A. Zh. , Dmitrieva E. I. , Vasil’eva M. A. , Derbeneva A. S. , Karlash Yu. A. , Nikulich I. F. , Atamanenko A. A. , Tarasov M. S.
Published: December 2024

Purpose. To study of the effectiveness of cataract surgery based on the results of a comprehensive evaluation, including the patient's opinion about the state of visual functions, when assessed using a questionnaire before and after surgery.

Material and methods. 117 patients (117 eyes) diagnosed with nAMD and cataract (LOCS I — 56 patients, 47.9 %; LOCS II — 57 patients, 48.7 %, LOCS III — 4 patients, 3.4 %), mean age 76.2 ± 5.7 years were included in the study. All patients received angiogenesis inhibitor therapy (aflibercept 2 mg), in Treat&Extend regimen. Cataract surgery was performed if disease activity is controlled. A questionnaire including 10 questions was developed to interview patients, 9 of which were assessed before, 1 and 6 months after cataract surgery, and a 10th question on patient satisfaction with the results of surgery — 1 and 6 months after cataract surgery.

Results. There was a significant improvement in functional (increase in BCVA by 0.31 units from the baseline) and anatomical parameters (significant decrease in CRT, height of neuro- and pigment epithelium detachment), as well as in patients' assessment of vision-related quality of life. The most compromised aspect before surgery was the ability to read text in newspapers, books, and magazines. After surgery there was a significant improvement of the indicators characterizing the patient's adaptation to navigation and outside activities. There were minimal changes in central vision loss and metamorphopsia as assessed by patients (on average, by 0.02 b. and 1.21 b.). 99 patients (84.0 %) reported satisfaction with the results of the surgery. The strongest correlations (r = 0.94 and 0.81, p < 0.05) characterized the relationship between patients' evaluation of the effect of surgery and the presence of central vision spotting/loss of central vision, double vision.

Conclusion. The results of surgery significantly contribute to the patient's assessment of his/her daily activities requiring clearer vision, primarily in the middle and far distances. Cataract surgery does not worsen the course of nAMD and, on the contrary, cataract surgery and continuation of antiangiogenic therapy contribute to a significant improvement in BCVA and anatomical improvement.
On the difficulties of diagnostics and tactics of removing a giant foreign body from the orbit
Authors: Filatova I. A. , Tishkova A. P.
Published: December 2024

A clinical case of removal of a giant foreign body (FB) from the orbit one year after a traumatic pistol injury simultaneously with enucleation of the eyeball is described. Particular attention is paid to the difficulties of diagnosis and surgical technique in removing giant FBs. Computed tomography (CT) is the main method of examination for such injuries, but it should be borne in mind that FBs, especially bullets from traumatic pistols, can consist of various materials, including X-ray negative ones. In addition, large metal fragments produce significant artifacts that complicate the interpretation of the CT image.
Evaluación de competencias digitales en estudiantes de educación: un estudio en la Universidad de Bolonia
Authors: Fernández Scagliusi Mª Victoria , Llorente-Cejudo Carmen
Published: December 2024

Este estudio evalúa las competencias digitales de los estudiantes de la Universidad de Bolonia, destacando la importancia creciente de la alfabetización digital en la educación moderna. Se emplea un cuestionario validado y adaptado para medir las competencias digitales de estudiantes inscritos en Pedagogía, Ciencias de la Educación Primaria y Ciencias de la Infancia. La recolección de datos se realiza a través de la plataforma Qualtrics y mediante técnicas presenciales, siendo los datos analizados posteriormente con el software SPSS. Los resultados indican que los estudiantes muestran alta competencia en alfabetización digital y comunicación, aunque las habilidades en creatividad e innovación son significativamente más bajas, sin que se observen diferencias significativas basadas en el género o la edad de los participantes. Estas observaciones sugieren la necesidad de integrar más profundamente las competencias digitales en los currículos universitarios para preparar adecuadamente a los estudiantes para los desafíos del entorno profesional, subrayando la importancia de fomentar el uso creativo de la tecnología en la formación docente.
Aprendizaje conceptual de las leyes de Newton mediante secuencias didácticas con simulaciones en realidad aumentada
Authors: Aguilar Acevedo Francisco , Flores Cruz Jesús Alberto , Pacheco Bautista Daniel , Dueñas Reyes Efraín
Published: December 2024

La redefinición de experiencias de aprendizaje a través de la tecnología de realidad aumentada, requiere de una visión amplia del proceso, que particularmente en el caso de la enseñanza de las ciencias, permita vincular las posibilidades de visualizar fenómenos de difícil observación o reproducción con actividades que respondan a objetivos didácticos específicos. Así, en este artículo se presentan los pormenores de una intervención apoyada con simulaciones en realidad aumentada orientadas a la enseñanza de las leyes de Newton, en el marco de dos secuencias didácticas propuestas. Bajo un esquema cuasi-experimental y un diseño pre-test y post-test, se hizo uso de un cuestionario sobre el concepto de fuerza para valorar el aprendizaje conceptual. Se muestran los resultados de la estimación del índice de dificultad de los ítems y la ganancia relativa de aprendizaje, obteniendo una diferencia favorable para el grupo experimental, particularmente en la equidad en el aprendizaje. Finalmente, se presentan algunos hallazgos notables sobre el uso de las secuencias didácticas propuestas.
Estudio exploratorio de autopercepción docente sobre robótica y labor educativa en educación primaria: aportes a la innovación y el emprendimiento
Authors: Vera-Sagredo Angélica , Constenla-Núñez Jaime , Jara-Coatt Pilar
Published: December 2024

La innovación emprendedora y la robótica educativa están transformando el ámbito educativo. El estudio realizado en la región del Biobío, Chile, con 252 profesores de dieciséis establecimientos, tuvo como propósito analizar la percepción de los docentes sobre la innovación, el emprendimiento y el uso de la robótica educativa, identificar las diferencias de género, los años de servicio y la capacitación de los docentes y examinar las relaciones entre estas variables y con características sociodemográficas. El estudio, con un enfoque cuantitativo, transversal, descriptivo y correlacional, utilizó un cuestionario de 43 ítems denominado "Percepción sobre Emprendimiento, Innovación y Robótica Educativa en Educación (EIRE)". Los resultados muestran que los docentes valoran la innovación pedagógica y la promoción de competencias emprendedoras desde una edad temprana, sin embargo, enfrentan desafíos en su formación. Existe debate sobre la integración de la robótica en el currículo, a pesar de reconocer su utilidad en el proceso educativo.
Enhancing Chemistry Education Through The Integration of Rote Ndao Cultural Practices: An Ethnographic Exploration of Ethnochemistry
Authors: Ardyansyah Ananta
Published: December 2024

This study explores how integrating local cultural practices into chemistry education through ethnochemistry can provide a practical and relevant solution to these challenges. Conducted in Oeseli Village, a seven-day ethnographic study employed observations, interviews, and documentation to identify culturally significant products, such as Rote sugar, sopi (a traditional alcoholic beverage), and fried milk. These products were found to align with key chemistry concepts, including organic chemistry, fermentation, and particle interactions. By embedding these cultural assets into the chemistry curriculum, educators can enhance student engagement, contextualize learning, and overcome barriers imposed by the lack of traditional laboratory resources. The findings highlight the potential for using local traditions to foster a deeper understanding of chemistry while promoting science education that is both accessible and culturally relevant in remote regions like Rote Ndao. This approach encourages the development of a sustainable, localized educational model that can be adapted to other marginalized communities facing similar educational constraints.
Combinations of Verbal and Non-Verbal Message Codes on Reddit
Authors: Fomin Andrey , Smakotina Natalia
Published: December 2024

Reddit.com provides an excellent example of interactive digital communication. Reddit comments and posts organize information in line with certain rules of coding and decoding. They convey meanings by semiotically heterogeneous verbal and non-verbal means. The article describes various combinations of communication codes that act as a communication tool, i.e., verbal, linguistic, verbal-visual, verbal-auditory, and verbal-kinesthetic. The research objective was to identify the structural and communicative organization of semiotically heterogeneous texts in the dynamics of interpersonal Internet communication. The research involved standard methods and covered publications on Reddit.com connected with the activities of the SpaceX corporation. The combinatorics of message codes formed a set of modes and modalities. They were actualized as a model of Internet communication with speech events in a communicative act subjected to regulation and modification, i.e., confirmation / refutation, approval, accusation, ignoring, etc., depending on the channel of perception and understanding. The combinatorics of verbal and non-verbal communication codes made it possible to model and classify the information and communication organization of online publications of the SpaceX business subreddit. The integration of the language system into complex semiotic systems helps to describe mental processes and human cognitive activity. It shapes new views and beliefs, as well as increases the effectiveness of communication.
Hydrological drought vulnerability assessment in Ethiopia using multi-criteria decision-making
Authors: Beyene Tegegn Kassa , Agarwal Ankit , Jain Manoj Kumar , Yadav Brijesh K.
Published: December 2024

Drought significantly impacts the livelihoods of communities over extensive regions, with Ethiopia being particularly prone to frequent and persistent occurrences. Hydrological drought analysis necessitates spatially distributed data, a challenge faced in Ethiopian studies. We employed remote sensing and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to assign weightage values to nine hydrological drought-influencing factors, namely land use and land cover, soil texture, population density, elevation, drainage density, aridity index, slope, rainfall departure, and water storage deficit index. Our results identify spatial diversity of hydrological drought vulnerability, with six categories of extreme and very high vulnerability areas covering over 22% of the country from January to June, primarily in the northeast and southeast lowlands. The majority of the country falls within high and medium vulnerability areas, emphasizing the prevalence of hydrological drought, particularly from June to October, while some southwest regions experience low vulnerability. Overall, a substantial portion of the country is susceptible to severe hydrological drought throughout most months.