bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Academic achievement in obstetrics and gynecology clerkships amongst medical students: Gender difference and importance of simulation in women’s health
Authors: Akhund Shahid Akhtar
Published: December 2024

Background
This study examines Pakistan’s high maternal death rate, attributing it to cultural sensitivities such as gender segregation, which impacts patient care and medical education. Obstetrics and gynecology are specialties for female physicians, resulting in male trainees’ restricted exposure and underperformance in clinical skills. This study investigates the influence of these barriers on clerkship evaluation outcomes for male and female students and proposes employing simulations to promote learning.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the University of Wollongong in 2021. It used obstetrics and gynecology and internal medicine end-of-year clerkships assessment scores of students from Pakistan. Data of 795 male and 777 female students were compared.
Results
In the obstetrics and gynecology assessment, the mean percentage scores of male students (M = 70.46, SD = 6.32) was higher for written components than that of female students (M = 68.69, SD = 7.28; p < 0.001). However, in the practical component, female students scored higher (M = 69.05, SD = 10.39) than male students (M = 65.98, SD = 10.47; p < 0.001). Both groups had almost the same total scores. No significant difference was observed in internal medicine clerkship scores.
Conclusion
Incorporating high-fidelity simulation during obstetrics and gynecology clerkship training may improve male trainees’ performance and motivate them to pursue the specialization.
Altered bacterial community composition is associated with the development of hepatogenous diabetes in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Zhang Yin , Tao Na , Li Meichuan , Liu Yujuan , Hu Han , Zhang Ping , He Qiuyi , Wu Xiaohuan , Shang Min , Li Ying , Yang Fangwan , Yang Ping , Wang Yanlin , Liu Jun , Lin Shide
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of gut microbiota with hepatogenous diabetes (HD) in patients with cirrhosis.
Methods
The composition and diversity of the gut microbiota were detected via 16S rRNA gene sequencing in 80 cirrhotic patients. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed to evaluate glucose disturbances. The associations of gut microbiota with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and HD were analyzed.
Results
Among the 80 cirrhotic patients, 21 patients had normal glucose tolerance (NGT), 26 patients had IGT, and 33 patients had HD. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratios in patients with IGT and HD (2.225 and 2.232, respectively) were lower than those in patients with NGT (3.286). At the genus level, patients with HD had a significantly lower richness of Faecalibacterium, Clostridium, Gemmiger and Roseburia and a significantly greater richness of Lactobacillus and Enterococcus than did those with NGT (P < 0.05). Patients with HD also had significantly lower abundances of Clostridium, Faecalibacterium, Gemiger and Lactobacillus than did those with IGT (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the LEfSe analysis revealed that patients with HD were enriched for Enterococcus and Enterobacteriaceae.
Conclusion
In patients with liver cirrhosis, seriously altered bacterial community composition, characterized by decreased richness of short-chain fatty acids-producing bacteria and increased richness of Enterococcus and Enterobacteriaceae, was associated with the development of HD. These finding unveil a novel mechanistic insight into HD pathogenesis and suggest targeting the modulation of gut microbiota may offer a promising strategy in the management of HD.
Biodegradable Tracer Particles for Underwater Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Xu Nicole , Su Yunxing , Jovchevska Mija
Published: December 2024

This study introduces biodegradable particles as a sustainable, low-cost, and effective alternative to synthetic tracers for flow visualization of biological and underwater systems using particle image velocimetry (PIV). Biodegradable alternatives address critical challenges associated with conventional synthetic tracers, e.g. silver-coated glass beads, such as potential environmental impact, toxicity Raffel et al. [1], and high costs [2]. We characterized various biodegradable particles to determine their density, size, and light scattering properties. Corn and arrowroot starch emerged as the most promising candidates, with densities closely matching deionized (DI) and artificial seawater (35 ppt), minimizing buoyancy effects. Both particles exhibited uniform size distributions, with mean diameters of 10.9 (corn) and 8.7 µm (arrowroot). Laser scattering tests demonstrated comparable performance to commercial tracers in both DI and saltwater environments. PIV experiments using a translating airfoil, live brine shrimp, and live jellyfish confirmed that starch particles accurately visualized velocity and vorticity fields, effectively capturing flow structures in brine shrimp and jellyfish swimming. The nontoxic, digestible nature of starch makes them ideal for biological and ecological studies, minimizing risks to live organisms and the environment. Thus, we highlight the potential of natural starchas an eco-friendly replacement for synthetic tracers in PIV experiments, promoting sustainable and frugal practices in flow visualization without compromising performance.
The role of pkcι in yap 1 signaling in cervical cancer and its relationship with prognosis
Authors: chen shengmin , wang guoping , lin zhiren , yuan feng
Published: December 2024

To explore the role of Protein Kinase Cι(PKCι/PRKCI) in yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) signaling in cervical cancer and its relationship with prognosis.Select normal cervical tissue(NCT)low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions(LSIL),high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions(HSIL)and cervical squamous cell carcinoma(SCC)in 80 cases each.PKCι and YAP1 were analyzed by immunohistochemistry(IHC)and analyzed for correlation,clinical pathology and prognosis.Cervical cancer SiHa cell lines were transfected with PKCι gene overexpression,transfection efficiency was evaluated by inverted fluorescence microscope,viability was treated with PKCι inhibitor aurothiomalate,which was measured by CCK-8,and cell migration was measured by transwell experiments.The PKCι gene expression was measured by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR)and verified by transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR. The positivity rates for PKCι and YAP1 varied in patients with NCT,LSIL, and HSIL (P < 0.05). Both PKCι and YAP1 expression showed statistically significant differences between different degrees of SCC differentiation and the presence of vasculoma plugs(P < 0.05). Univariate analysis of the survival prognosis of patients with SCC showed that protein expression,differentiation,lymph node metastasis, and vasoma metastasis were independent factors affecting overall survival(P < 0.05). The expression level of PKCι transfected PKCι mRNA in SiHa cells was significantly higher than that in empty-loaded liposomes(P < 0.05). Patients with cervical lesions are often accompanied by abnormal expression of PKCι and YAP1,which may have synergistic effects between each other to affect the occurrence and development of SCC and its prognosis,promote the proliferation and migration of SCC cells,and provide a possible basis for the pathogenesis study of SCC and its diagnosis and treatment to determine the prognosis.
Effect of Computer-based Cognitive Remediation Therapy on Neurocognitive Functioning of Patient with Schizophrenia
Authors: Singh Geetesh Kumar , Gupta Mahima , Mishra Jyoti , Bajaj Manoj
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Schizophrenia patients often suffer from cognitive impairments that affect their social and occupational functioning. Computer-based cognitive remediation therapy (CCRT) has shown potential in improving neurocognitive function. This study evaluated the effectiveness of CCRT in improving neurocognitive function in schizophrenia patients.
Methods: In this study, ten individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and aged between 30 and 50, hospitalized for minimum six months and had up to eighth-grade education, were included. Neurocognitive assessments using the NIMHANS Neurocognitive Battery were conducted at baseline and after the intervention. CCRT sessions conducted twice weekly for six months alongside standard treatment.
Results: Neurocognitive function improved significantly: mental speed by 36%, focused attention by 17.93%, sustained attention by 59.24%, response inhibition by 82.76%, comprehension by 42.99%, verbal learning by 193.62%, immediate recall of logical memory by 66.83%, and delayed recall by 50.23%. Effect sizes suggested clinically significant changes across domains, with a positive correlation between CCRT session quantity and cognitive functioning.
Conclusion: These findings indicate CCRT as a promising intervention for enhancing cognitive function in schizophrenia patients. The significant improvements in multiple cognitive domains highlight its potential. Further research with larger samples and longer follow-up periods is required to validate these results and optimize CCRT protocols.
Impacts of Climate Change on Lepidoptera Biodiversity in Iran: Insights from Long-Term Climate Data and GBIF Records
Authors: Shojaaddini Mohammad
Published: December 2024

This study examined the impacts of climate change on Lepidoptera biodiversity across Iran’s ecoregions using Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), observational records, and long-term climate data from 1993 to 2022. Biodiversity metrics were analyzed, and Generalized Linear Model (GLM) analysis were used to identify key climatic and ecological drivers of family richness. Spatial analysis revealed a mean family richness of 5.89 (SD=7.13) and a mean Shannon-Wiener Index of 0.83 (SD=0.93) across ecoregions. Biodiversity hotspots, such as the Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests, Zagros Mountains forest steppe, and Elburz Range forest steppe, exhibited consistently high family richness (19, 17, and 16 families, respectively) and balanced family compositions. In contrast, arid ecoregions, including the Registan-North Pakistan sandy desert and Baluchistan xeric woodlands suffered from insufficient sampling, limiting biodiversity assessments. Temporal analyses revealed forested regions had relatively complete accumulation curves while arid and semi-arid regions displayed uneven and incomplete sampling. Comparative analyses demonstrated that GBIF documented 27 unique families out of 70 families in observational records. Negative Binomial GLM showed that temperature positively influenced family richness, while higher precipitation negatively impacted family-level distribution. Comparative analysis between GBIF data and observational records revealed complementary strengths. GBIF provided broad-scale trends, while localized surveys uncovered specialist families often overlooked in global datasets. These findings emphasize the need to prioritize conservation efforts in biodiversity-rich ecoregions and addressing sampling gaps in underrepresented areas to mitigate climate change impacts on Lepidoptera in Iran.
The distribution of sport performance gene variations through COVID-19 disease severity
Authors: Yenmis Guven , Kallenci Ilayda , Dokur Mehmet , Koc Suna , Yalinkilic Sila Basak , Atak Evren , Demirbilek Mahmut , Arkan Hulya
Published: December 2024

Background
Since its emergence in 2020, researchers worldwide have been collaborating to better understand the SARS-CoV-2 disease’s pathophysiology. Disease severity can vary based on several factors, including comorbidities and genetic variations. Notably, recent studies have highlighted the role of genes associated with athletic performance, such as ACE, ACTN3, and PPARGC1A, in influencing muscle function, cardiovascular health, and the body's metabolic response. Given that these genes also impact oxidative metabolism, inflammation, and respiratory efficiency, we hypothesized that they might play a critical role in the host’s response to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Aims
This study aimed to investigate the association between disease severity and genetic polymorphisms in these sports performance-related genes, specifically ACE rs4646994, ACTN3 rs1815739, and PPARGC1A rs8192678.
Methods
A total of 422 COVID-19-positive patients were included in the study. The participants were divided into three groups: a severe group (77 patients) requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission, a mild group (300 patients) exhibiting at least one symptom, and an asymptomatic control group. Genotyping was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism PCR.
Results
The D allele and DD genotype of ACE and the T allele and TT genotype of ACTN3 were found to confer protective effects against severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conversely, the PPARGC1A TC genotype and the ACE-PPARGC1A ins/ins + TC combined genotype were associated with increased disease severity (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Although vaccination has reduced the severity of SARS-CoV-2, the virus continues to impact human health. Interindividual differences due to these genetic variations will broaden the horizon of knowledge on the pathophysiology of the disease.
Leveraging key-points Motion History Maps for Human Activity Recognition
Authors: Minutillo Luca , Altilio Rosa , Chirico Francesco , Foglia Goffredo
Published: December 2024

There has been a great interest in investigating machine learning techniques for rec-ognizing human activities from video sequences or images. The task is particularlychallenging due to potential problems that could appear related to clutter, partial oc-clusion, changes in scale, viewpoint, lighting, and appearance. Additional, many fieldsof applications could require an activity recognition tool including video surveillancesystems, human-computer interaction, e-health applications, and robotics. In this pa-per, we present a novel two-phase approach for extracting and learning knowledgefrom a subset of possible human actions, working in a multi person scenario. Ourapproach first employs a deep neural network to perform the pose estimation and theskeleton key-points extraction of a subject. Successively, the key points are used tofirstly track each subject in the scene and secondly build the motion history images.These ones represent the inputs of a convolutional neural network able to recognizeand correctly classify seven different possible human actions. Despite every sub-blockof our machine learning pipeline being an off-the-shelf solution by itself, the wholesystem represents a pretty impactful innovation. In fact, it enables fast and efficientreal-time multi-target activity recognition, which is something seldomly investigatedin literature, but of great importance for real world applications. Experimental evalu-ations demonstrate that the solution is competitive with existing approaches, reachingan accuracy near to 90% on a real world-dataset.
Clinical Insights of Honeybee - Propolis Extract: Identification of Biochemical Compound using GC-MS and FTIR Analysis
Authors: Selvaraj Jothi
Published: December 2024

Propolis, a natural resinous substance collected by honeybees from various plant sources, has garnered significant interest for its diverse pharmacological properties. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of propolis, focusing on its extraction, biochemical characterization, and detailed identification of its bioactive compounds using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The optimized extraction techniques to identify propolis compounds were followed by a thorough biochemical analysis to identify key constituents. GC-MS analysis revealed a complex mixture of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenes, which are known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. FTIR spectroscopy complemented these findings by providing detailed insights into the functional groups present in the propolis extract. The study underscores the potential of propolis in clinical applications, highlighting its rich biochemical profile that can be harnessed for therapeutic purposes. The integration of GC-MS and FTIR analyses offers a robust framework for the precise identification and characterization of propolis compounds, paving the way for future research and development in medical and pharmaceutical fields.
The role of Agglomeration on export survival in the context of weak institutions: Evidence from Malawi using a Survival Analysis
Authors: Banda Tadala , Chigaru Farai
Published: December 2024

Increased exports have the potential to spur economic growth and augment the trajectory of poverty in sub-Saharan Africa. A Plethora of literature has explored trade creation or the introduction of new export products as the sources of increased export performance. While this is so, many developing countries still face the challenge of having short-lived export spells. The identification of the drivers of these short-lived export spells has however been ignored. Increasing the lifespan of the existing exports is a cost-effective and viable way to maintain export contribution to economic growth, especially for countries with weak institutions. We investigate the determinants of export survival, with a specific focus on the role of agglomeration. We hypothesize that strategically identifying trade partners based on their level of agglomeration has the potential to boost export survival for the exporter countries. Using Malawi as a case study, we analyze export data from 117 trading partners over 20 years (2003–2022). The Kaplan-Meier analysis reveals a first-year export survival rate of 38%, with a median duration of just one year. To further explore the role of agglomeration economies on export survival, we employ a multivariate parametric inverse Gaussian frailty survival model using a proportional hazard Weibull distribution. Our findings indicate that agglomeration economies significantly enhance the survival of Malawi’s exports. These findings are timely and important as they provide evidence for policy formulation for countries with export-oriented growth, especially with institutions where hurdles to export growth exist.
JEL Codes: C41, C14, F14, R12
INFECTIONS BY OXA-48-PRODUCING ENTEROBACTERIACEAE IN SEVERE BURN PATIENTS: CASE REPORT AND LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors:   High Care Burn Unit, Mohamed V Military Teaching Hospital, Rabat, Morocco., El Alaoui Amine , El Bouti Anas ,   Anesthesiology and intensive care Unit, Mohamed V Military Teaching Hospital, Rabat, Morocco., Walid Atmani ,   Anesthesiology and intensive care Unit, Mohamed V Military Teaching Hospital, Rabat, Morocco., Bensghir Mustapha ,   Anesthesiology and intensive care Unit, Mohamed V Military Teaching Hospital, Rabat, Morocco., Hicham Balkhi ,   Anesthesiology and intensive care Unit, Mohamed V Military Teaching Hospital, Rabat, Morocco.
Published: December 2024

Burn patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) are particularly vulnerable to infections, which are the leading cause of death, whether bacterial or fungal. Prognosis is further compromised when the causative pathogens are multidrug-resistant bacteria, a growing global threat that limits therapeutic options, especially due to the lack of progress in the development of new antibiotics. Among these pathogens, carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), particularly those producing the OXA-48 enzyme, are a leading cause of both community-acquired and nosocomial infections, with OXA-48 being the most prevalent carbapenemase gene in Morocco. We report the case of a 12-year-old child admitted for severe thermal burns who developed colonization by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacter aerogenes (OXA-48) during hospitalization. Based on this case and a review of the literature, we discuss the profile of healthcare-associated infections in severe burn patients, the diagnosis, and the therapeutic management of infections caused by CPE.
Micellar Casein Concentrate in Hard Cheese Production
Authors: Mel'nikova E. , Bogdanova Ekaterina , Stanislavskaya Ekaterina , Rudnichenko Elena , Chekmareva Mariya
Published: December 2024

New technologies provide comprehensive processing of raw materials, increase the yield of the finished product, and improve the marketability of dairy products. For instance, microfiltration is popular in cheese production. It makes it possible to obtain micellar casein concentrate, as well as to change the ratio between casein and whey proteins from 80:20 to 90:10 or even 95:5. This article introduces some technological recommendations for hard cheese production from a standardized mix with a micellar casein concentrate.
The authors used standard research methods to study the chemical composition and properties cheese raw milk, micellar casein concentrate, standardized mixes, and hard Gruyere cheeses.
Casein micelles were destroyed faster at pH = 6.1 in the test sample. The standardized mix with micellar casein concentrate developed a more elastic gel. It happened as a result of rennet coagulation due to a change in the ratio between calcium and phosphorus ions associated with casein. It was 0.54 in the standardized mix with 10% micellar casein concentrate and 0.46 in the control sample. The yield of the finished product increased by 17% due to a more active protein involvement in the rennet curd. The test sample demonstrated a longer lag phase in the development of lactic acid microorganisms. The nonfat substance in the experimental cheese sample had a 15% lower moisture content than the control sample. This variable indicated a less intensive development of starter microflora during ripening. The experimental standardized mix had a higher content of plasmin (327 nmol AMC/cm3) than the control (149 nmol AMC/cm3). The ratio indicated that the cheese sample with micellar casein concentrate ripened without starter cultures due to primary proteolysis.
In this study, the optimal share of micellar casein concentrate to be added to standardized mix was 10%, and the experimental cheese was of high-quality.
Food Risks as an Indicator of the Quality of Life in the Region
Authors: Morozova Elena , Kotov Roman , Pastukhova Elena , Egorova Natal'ya
Published: December 2024

The quality of life is a complex characteristic of the level and conditions of people’s life. This indicator reflects the degree of satisfaction, as well as the subjective perception of life and its individual aspects. In this regard, the quality of life is the most important indicator of the socio-economic development for separate communities and the nation as a whole. However, science has no unified system of indicators to determine the quality of life or its correlation with various threats, i.e., downside risks. Food consumption is an important element in assessing the quality of life, and food risk is a component of the overall downside risks. The research objective was to develop a methodology for determining food risks as an indicator of the quality of life. The authors studied the level of food consumption by the population of Russia as a whole and the population of the Kemerovo Region. The consumer food price index served as an indicator of food risks in the system of the quality of life. The study relied on standard research methods and involved a review of scientific sources and official documentation. Statistics for 2012–2022 underwent a comparative analysis of regional vs. federal data to determine the degree of deviation, which reflected the food risks to the quality of life.
The Kemerovo Region proved to lag behind the Russian average in five out of nine food products, i.e., vegetables and melons, vegetable oil, fruits and berries, dairy products, and sugar. The regional deviation was smaller in the case of meat and meat products. The consumption of bread products and eggs approximated the federal level. Potato consumption was above average. Food prices appeared to grow at a slower pace than in the country as a whole. The comparative analysis of actual vs. standard food consumption in the region demonstrated a severe long-term shortage of fresh fruits, berries, vegetables, melons, dairy products, oil, and meat in the diet of local residents, who try to compensate for this shortage with potatoes, eggs, bread, and bakery products, not to mention sugar. The estimated level of food risks for the quality of life proved to be 10–11%, i.e., a stable lag behind the all-Russian indicators of food availability.
Food risk assessment is an important indicator of the quality of life. It reveals problems in the regional food security and makes it possible to develop the necessary measures. Food risks can be reduced by increasing the local agricultural production, improving the trade logistics for specific goods, optimizing the regional food supply management, and promoting the healthy lifestyle.
Effect of Diet Supplements on Rumen Microbiome in Young Ram
Authors: Giro Tatiana , Ilina Larisa
Published: December 2024

The gastrointestinal microbiome of ruminants is a complex ecological system. It ferments feed components and protects the body from opportunistic and pathogenic microflora. The interaction between the microbiota and the host organism depends on the diet, which complicates the scientific understanding of their impact on digestive processes, immunity, and yield. The article describes the composition and functional profile of microbiome in the rumen of young Edilbay rams fed with organic additives based on essential microelements.
The samples were obtained from seven-month-old Edilbay rams, which received Ioddar-Zn and DAFS-25 feed additives. The study involved four groups of animals: control (no additives), experimental group I (Yoddar-Zn), experimental group II (DAFS-25), and experimental group III (Yoddar-Zn + DAFS-25). The composition and functional profile of the microbiome were studied using the NGS sequencing. The bioinformatics data analysis involved Qiime2 ver. 2020.8 and standard statistical methods.
The feed additives had a positive effect on the growth and development of the rams. The highest live weight indicators belonged to experimental group III, which received Yoddar-Zn and DAFS-25. The ratio of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phylum changed, indicating a potential shift in metabolic processes towards an increase in the ratio of volatile fatty acids (acetate / propionate). The greatest changes were observed in animals that consumed the selenium additive DAFS-25, both separately and with Ioddar-Zn. The additives did not increase the count of Proteobacteria, Mycoplasma, and Escherichia-Shigella, which are associated with inflammatory processes.
The feed additives affected the functional profile of rumen microbiome in young rams: they improved the carbohydrate and energy metabolism, as well as the synthesis of vitamins and cofactors. In addition, the research revealed some patterns of microbiome modification, which indicated a positive effect of the additives on metabolic processes, resulting in a more efficient digestion of feed ingredients and, eventually, in increased meat yield.
Prediction of groundwater levels using a long short-term memory (LSTM) technique
Authors: Thakur Abhinav , Chandel Abhishish , Shankar Vijay
Published: December 2024

The precise prediction of groundwater levels is a challenging task due to the complex relationships between hydrological parameters and the lack of in situ climate data. The present research proposed an integrated machine learning model for groundwater level prediction based on long short-term memory (LSTM) along with principal component analysis (PCA) and discrete wavelength transform (DWT), i.e. PCA–DWT–LSTM model. The proposed model was developed using 23 years (2000–2022) of seasonal groundwater level data and climatic variables for nine wells in the district of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh, India. The proposed model attains higher ranges of R2 (0.8253–0.8828) and lower ranges of root mean square error (RMSE) (0.1011–2.0025) than the alternative model (PCA–LSTM), having R2 and RMSE values in the range of 0.7019–0.8005 and 0.2662–2.9565, respectively. Moreover, when compared to the hybrid models, the accuracy of the DWT-based models is much higher. The developed model (PCA–DWT–LSTM) improves the accuracy and interpretability of groundwater level prediction and has the potential to estimate the accurate groundwater level, particularly in the regions where obtaining the hydrogeological data is difficult.
The main approaches to inter-budgetary regulation and financial support of the subjects of the Russian federation from the federal budget in 2025–2027
Authors: Shabel'nikova S. I.
Published: December 2024

The main source of financial support for the budgets of the country’s regions is the federal budget, which for the coming three years has become even more voluminous, ambitious and ambitious in solving the tasks set. It is projected to grow by 4 trillion in its revenue, it is planned to provide financial resources for new national projects that will be launched next year and significant funds are provided for their implementation - this is more than 40 trillion rubles in the six-year horizon. Federal funding has been almost doubled compared to existing national projects. The issue of balancing regional budgets and the development of inter-budgetary relations also remains in the focus of attention of the federal government. In order to ensure transparency and convenience of work, indicators characterizing the volume of budget allocations allocated for the provision of all types of inter-budgetary transfers are allocated in a separate appendix to the law on the federal budget. In total, about 222 interbudget transfers will be distributed in 2025, including 8 grants, 168 subsidies, 32 subventions, 14 other interbudget transfers. In subsequent years, 202 and 201 interbudget transfers, respectively, including 8 grants annually, 152 and 151 subsidies respectively, 33 subventions and 9 other interbudget transfers annually. The article considers the main types and volumes of inter-budgetary transfers to the budgets of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation for 2025–2027, and concludes on the sufficiency and effectiveness of financial support provided for the sustainability of regional budgets and the achievement of the goal of reducing regional differentiation.
The development of stronghold settlements in the context of the spatial development of the russian federation
Authors: Gligich-Zolotareva M. V. , Lykjanova N. I.
Published: December 2024

The development of support settlements has been proclaimed as one of the priority directions of spatial development in Russia. Currently the state is working on legal and methodological support for the creation of support settlements, a list of more than 2 thousand settlements has been formed. Long-term plans for the socio-economic development of key settlements are being developed in the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. Long-term plans for the integrated socio-economic development of 22 agglomerations and cities located in the Far Eastern Federal District, as well as a list of key settlements in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation, have been approved. The regulations on the Unified List of Reference Settlements are incorporated into the Strategy of Spatial Development of the Russian Federation for the period up to 2030 with a forecast up to 2036. These processes have highlighted a number of problems in the field under consideration, so the concept of anchor settlements needs further elaboration, theoretical understanding, analysis of information on the practical implementation of this tool and the appropriate regulatory consolidation of the necessary innovations.
Geopolitical guidelines of Russia’s spatial development strategy
Authors: Druzhinin A. G.
Published: December 2024

The formation of a strategy for Russia’s spatial development involves a full-scale account of “tectonic shifts” in the modern world order and related geopolitical contradictions and challenges. The purpose of the article is to take stock of the multidimensional manifestations of the consideration of the geopolitical factor in the “Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation for the period up to 2025”, as well as in the “Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation for the period up to 2030”, to highlight the remaining problematic areas in the domestic spatial development strategy, as well as promising directions for its correction, taking into account the dynamics of global changes. In particular, the need to ensure a combination of the currently dominant “centralist” (federal) approaches with greater consideration of regional (municipal) specifics, as well as the ethnogeographic factor, is emphasized. The geopolitical expediency of combining the “shift” to the East and South with ensuring the actual multi-vector spatial development of Russia is shown. The necessity of shifting the emphasis from “geostrategic territories” in favor of multi-scale problem-target zoning, linked to the expansion and consolidation of the network of reference settlements, identified, inter alia, in connection with the ethnogeographic features and geopolitical interests of the country, is substantiated.
Profitability of agriculture in Russia and measures to regulate it
Authors: Petrikov A. V.
Published: December 2024

After 2021, there has been an alarming downward trend in the profitability of agricultural production, which negatively affects the investment attractiveness of the industry and creates risks for its growth in the medium term. In addition, as the analysis conducted in the article shows, there is a significant differentiation in the profitability of agriculture by regions of the country, large and small farms, as well as by individual sub-sectors of agricultural production. The task of creating equal income-generating conditions in agriculture with other industries is one of the main tasks of agricultural policy. A significant factor determining the decrease in profitability of agricultural enterprises is outstripping growth (disparity) the prices of resources and services for agriculture compared to the prices of agricultural products. The author of the article suggests a number of measures to mitigate this disparity.
Decomposition of reasons influencing the utilization of multiple voting shares on the financial market
Authors: Voskanian R. O.
Published: December 2024

Multiple voting shares are a relatively new financial instrument for the global financial market and a completely new one for the Russian one, which is confirmed by the fact that in Russia the regulatory regulation of multiple voting shares appeared in 2022 and so far only for international companies. In view of this, a set of reasons is of interest, encouraging financial market regulators to allow the circulation of multiple voting shares. This article focuses on dissecting the factors that contribute to the use of multiple voting shares in the financial market, with the goal of exploring their potential for addressing strategic challenges in the Russian economy. Identifying four blocks of reasons is essential for achieving this goal, including financial, spatial, technological, and corporate factors. The largest block is formed by corporate reasons related to risk management in the implementation of the company's financial policy and the formation of invested capital. The block of financial reasons is related to the need to develop the financial market and increase the level of stability of the financial system. The concept of spatial zoning is linked to the potential for economic growth in specific regions of the Russian Federation through the augmentation of tax income from companies registered as IPJSC, particularly through the utilization of multiple voting shares. The block of technological reasons is associated with the development of a competitive economy, high-tech production and a decrease in the level of dependence on high-tech imports. The author's decomposition supported the idea that multiple voting shares can contribute to financial stability by reducing stock volatility in the corporate sector of the Russian market.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine Aids in Preservation of Cholinergic Neurons and Memory in the Drosophila melanogaster Model of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Bolshakova Olga I. , Slobodina Alexandra D. , Slepneva Elizaveta E. , Sarantseva Svetlana V.
Published: December 2024

Background:

The lack of effective therapy for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease demands
both the search for new drugs and the reconsideration of already known substances currently
used in other areas of medicine. Drosophila melanogaster offers the potential to model features
of Alzheimer's disease, study disease mechanisms, and conduct drug screening.

Objectives:

The purpose of this work was to analyze the neuroprotective properties of the drug
“carnicetine”, which is an acetylated form of the natural low molecular weight compound L-carnitine.
The drug is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and is currently used as a means of improving
cellular metabolism.

Methods:

Using tissue-specific drivers, direct expression of amyloid beta peptide (42 amino
acids) was exhibited in certain groups of neurons in the Drosophila melanogaster brain, namely in
dopaminergic and cholinergic neurons. The effect of acetyl-L-carnitine (carnicetine) on the death
of these neurons and the memory of flies was analyzed.

Results:

The expression of amyloid beta peptide in dopaminergic or cholinergic neurons resulted
in neurodegeneration of cholinergic neurons in the Drosophila brain and memory impairment.
The use of carnicetine added to animal food made it possible to treat these disorders. At the same
time, no effect on dopaminergic neurons was noted.

Conclusion:

The data obtained confirmed the neuroprotective properties of the drug under study,
demonstrating its participation in the restoration of the cholinergic system and the feasibility of using
carnicetine for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Recent Updates on Alzheimer’s Disease: Pathogenesis, Pathophysiology, Molecular Approaches and Natural Bioactive Compounds Used in Contemporary Time to Alleviate Disease
Authors: Mishra Arun Kumar , Srivastava Alankar , Raj Varsha , Saini Vipin , Khan Gyas , Singh Harpreet , Mishra Amrita , Paliwal Sarvesh
Published: December 2024

:

Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterised by gradual memory loss and neurodegeneration,
is an important risk to global health. Despite the recent advances in the field of neuroscience,
the complex biological mechanisms underlying the aetiology and pathology of AD have not
been elucidated yet. The development of amyloid-beta plaques, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein,
oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation have been identified as important components. The
genesis of AD has been illuminated by advances in molecular techniques, which have shown the
contributions of environmental, genetic, and epigenetic variables.

:

Ongoing research is focused on the potential of bioactive compounds as therapeutic agents. Quercetin,
epigallocatechin gallate, huperzine A, ginsenosides, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, zinc,
bacosides from brahmi, and withanolide A from ashwagandha are among the compounds that
have demonstrated encouraging effects in modifying disease pathways. These bioactive substances
demonstrate their potential for symptomatic relief by providing neuroprotective, antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-enhancing properties. The present review presents the recent
findings on AD pathogenesis, molecular mechanisms, and the impact of natural compounds, offering
a comprehensive perspective on current and emerging strategies for managing this debilitating
condition.
A Multivariate Intuitionistic Fuzzy Grey Model for Forecasting Electricity Consumption
Authors: Yörür Bahadır , Erginel Nihal , Şentürk Sevil
Published: December 2024

Background:

Whether in the short, medium or long term, forecasting electricity consumption has always been an essential study area. In the literature, many methods are used for future forecasting and are being improved daily to achieve better results.

Objective:

The main objective of this study is to make the most accurate long-term electricity consumption forecast, which is the basis for optimal future planning in the energy sector. Electric consumption forecasting is performed regionally since planning at the regional level is essential for more precise planning.

Methods:

There may be different variables that affect electricity consumption. This study ex-tends the multivariate grey model for electricity consumption prediction to intuitionistic trian-gular fuzzy numbers for nine regions. In the grey model, population, export, and gross domes-tic product variables were used as independent variables, and future predictions for these vari-ables were obtained through the univariate intuitionistic triangular fuzzy grey model.

Results:

The results of the proposed method are compared with those of the classical univari-ate grey model, univariate intuitionistic triangular fuzzy grey model, and classical multivariate grey model. The results show that the error values of the proposed method are lower.

Conclusion:

The study contributes to the development of the grey model. More accurate pre-diction results are obtained with the proposed method compared to similar methods
Evaluation of Functional Properties and the Lipase Inhibitory Activity of Proteins from Amaranthus cruentus Seeds
Authors: Nair Arya , Suvarna Vasanti , Mallya Rashmi
Published: December 2024

Aims/Background:

Obesity is characterized by excessive body fat and is a chronic and complex disease. The medications used to date for the treatment of obesity have exhibited various side effects. Thus, new substances must be sought from alternative sources as anti-obesity drugs. Recently, there has been increased interest in the study of bioactive peptides generated from plant proteins for functional food development. Plant proteins have exhibited pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity and can be potentially studied as sources of anti-obesity drugs for long-term use. Amaranthus cruentus seeds are very nutritious, with high protein con-tent and medicinal properties. Hence, this study focuses on pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity and functional properties of Amaranthus cruentus seed protein isolates.

Materials and Methods:

Proteins were isolated using conventional and thermal isoelectric pre-cipitation methods. The protein's ability to inhibit lipases was assessed using both synthetic and natural substrates. The functional properties, such as nitrogen solubility, foaming test, emulsi-fication test, and water and oil holding abilities, were evaluated. The protein isolates were char-acterized by SDS-PAGE and DSC. Cell line studies were performed on 3T3-L1 cell lines to determine the cytotoxicity and anti-adipogenic activity of protein isolates.

Results:

Proteins 1, 2, 3, and 4 were found to have high protein yield and protein content. SDS-PAGE characterization showed protein bands at different molecular weights (kDa). Protein iso-lates demonstrated good functional properties and antilipase activity as compared to flour. In the cell line experiments, protein 1 exhibited a dose-dependent reduction in the lipid content.

Conclusion:

A. cruentus seed protein could pave the way for the development of nutraceutical formulation in the treatment of obesity.
STUDY ON VACCINE COLD CHAIN MANAGEMENT ROUTINE IMMUNIZATION IN THE SERIBU ISLANDS DKI JAKARTA 2024
Authors: Huriyati Huriyati
Published: December 2024

Vaccines are biological components with special characteristics and are important products in immunization programs, which are efforts to prevent diseases, disabilities, and deaths caused by vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD) in children and adults. This research study aims to benefit the advancement of immunization programs and pharmacy programs in vaccine management so that the immunization goal of enhancing the immunity of the Thousand Islands community against VPD can be achieved. Qualitative research method with a phenomenological research design, structured observation of ongoing management accompanied by interviews and document review. The research variables are cold chain equipment, temperature management, and vaccine inventory. The results of the cold chain equipment study show that 5 community health centers have conducted routine maintenance, while 2 community health centers have not conducted routine maintenance. Temperature management is carried out according to guidelines, but one health center does not record temperatures regularly. In the vaccine inventory, all health centers stored vaccines longer than the duration specified in the guidelines, and vaccines with VVM C were found in one health center. The cold chain management for routine immunization vaccines in the Thousand Islands has adequate cold chain equipment readiness.
Preparing Anti-Racist Educators through Critical Transformative Emotional Praxis
Authors: Molyneux Tonje
Published: December 2024

In settler-colonial countries like Canada, Whiteness—the customs, beliefs, values, and so on that comprise White culture—is the standard to which all others are compared. Whiteness is woven into the very fabric of our society, working to uphold White supremacy and systemic racism. Education, as part of this system, is also fraught with Whiteness, and its deleterious effects are evident in the persistent inequities experienced by students of Colour. Dismantling Whiteness in education is a daunting task, but one promising solution is to develop anti-racist educators capable of embodying and enacting culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies. However, this requires directly addressing Whiteness in teacher education programs, an endeavour that has proven challenging. As an entry into this topic, this paper explores Whiteness writ large including how it is studied both broadly and within the field of education. Then, approaches to addressing Whiteness in teacher education are reviewed, including what is and is not working. Next, other approaches to teacher education that could ameliorate current efforts to develop anti-racist educators are introduced: transformative learning and critical emotional praxis. Finally, these are woven together in a theory of change to address Whiteness in teacher education and support preservice teachers’ anti-racist development.
Does stillness bring wisdom?
Authors: McClarty Bridget
Published: December 2024

Three vignettes illustrate my journey towards human-body-nature intercorporeality. Nature as co-teacher has guided me for decades, as both teacher and student. Sense-making through re-engaging intercorporeality and eco-centric, slow pedagogical practices is the learning that endures.