bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Tanggapan Siswa Terhadap Implementasi Ice Breaking dalam Pembelajaran dengan Kejenuhan Belajar Mereka di Sekolah
Authors: Fikri Miftahul , Yusuf Ksatria Leanugraha
Published: December 2024

Latar belakang dari penelitian ini berdasarkan permasalahan yang ditemukan saat kegiatan studi pendahuluan dilakukan, dimana meskipun sebagian besar siswa memberikan tanggapan yang positif terhadap implementasi ice breaking dalam pembelajaran masih ditemui beberapa siswa yang menunjukan rasa jenuh saat mengikuti kegiatan pembelajaran di kelas. Sedangkan tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui: (1) Tanggapan siswa terhadap implementasi Ice Breaking dalam pembelajaran PAI dan Budi Pekerti di kelas VIII SMP Negeri 2 Cileunyi Kab. Bandung (2) Tingkat kejenuhan belajar siswa kelas VIII SMP Negeri 2 Cileunyi Kab. Bandung di sekolah (3) Hubungan antara tanggapan siswa terhadap implementasi Ice Breaking dalam pembelajaran PAI dan Budi Pekerti dengan kejenuhan belajar mereka di sekolah. Jenis pendekatan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah pendekatan kuantitatif serta menggunakan metode korelasional. Sampel atau responden pada penelitian ini adalah 35 orang siswa kelas VIII SMP Negeri 2 Cileunyi yang dipilih menggunakan teknik random sampling, kemudian teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah observasi, wawancara, kuesioner/angket serta studi dokume serta menggunakan teknik analisis data berupa analisis parsial dan analisis korelasional. Penelitian ini menunjukan hasil: (1) Tanggapan siswa terhadap implementasi Ice Breaking dalam pembelajaran sangat positif karena skor rata-rata yang diperoleh sebesar 3,33 skor tersebut berada pada interval 3,25 – 4,00 (kategori sangat positif) (2) Tingkat kejenuhan belajar siswa berada pada kategori rendah karena skor rata-rata yang diperoleh sebesar 2,16 skor tersebut berada pada interval 1,75 – 2,49 (kategori negatif) (3) Hubungan tanggapan siswa terhadap implementasi Ice Breaking dalam pembelajaran dengan kejenuhan belajar siswa berdasarkan hasil perhitungan: Uji korelasi diperoleh nilai r sebesar (-0,997). Pada uji hipotesis diperoleh nilai t hitung (5,92) > t tabel (2,03) serta untuk besaran pengaruh dari variabel X terhadap variabel Y adalah sebesar 93% sedangkan untuk 7% sisanya dipengaruhi oleh faktor lain.
Improving Student Learning Outcomes on Forming Obidient Muslim Character Through Problem-Based Learning
Authors: Fauziah Ema , Hasanah Aan
Published: December 2024

This research aims to improve student learning outcomes on the material of forming a devout Muslim personality through the application of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model. The method used is classroom action research (PTK) which is carried out in three cycles, where each cycle consists of stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The results of the study showed a significant improvement in students' cognitive learning outcomes from cycle I to cycle III. In cycle I, the average class score reached 79 with a completion percentage of 78%. In the second cycle, there was an increase with an average class score of 85 and completeness reaching 100%. In cycle III, the average class score increased further to 93 with a fixed completeness of 100%. These findings show that the PBL model is effective in improving student learning outcomes, especially in Class XI IPS 3 SMA Negeri 1 Sumedang. This model not only succeeds in improving students' understanding of the material, but also ensures that all students achieve learning completeness.
Enhancing Children's Prayer Movements at Kindergarten Through Snake and Ladder Game Media
Authors: Febiyanti Irma , Ratnasih Teti
Published: December 2024

Education is the main key in developing individual potential, including spiritual strength, self-control, intelligence, and skills needed by society, nation, and state. Early childhood education is very important because it is at this time that the potential for intelligence and the basis of behavior begin to be formed. Based on Ministerial Regulation Number 58 of 2009 concerning Formal Early Childhood Education Standards, there are five aspects of development that need to be considered, one of which is the strengthening of religious values. This research aims to improve the ability of children's prayer movements in TKIT Anak Bintang through the use of snake and ladder media in Group B at the Imtaq Center, Baleendah District, Bandung Regency. With this media, children are encouraged to practice prayer movements in a more orderly manner. The results of the study showed an increase in children's ability to practice prayer movements, proving that snake and ladder media can be an effective means of learning religion for early childhood. This research is a Classroom Action Research (PTK) which is carried out in two cycles, each consisting of four stages: planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The subjects of the study were 15 children from Group B, consisting of 6 boys and 8 girls.
Editorial. Public Transformations: Infrastructure, Ecology, Law, and Management in Modern Society
Authors: Nesterak Janusz , Ziębicki Bernard
Published: December 2024

In this issue of our journal, we present five exceptional analyses that explore various dimensions related to infrastructure, ecology, governance, and legal regulations within the public sphere. These articles address issues such as transport exclusion, the role of telemedicine in environmental protection, integrated safety management of large-scale cultural events, the interpretation of legal norms for municipal companies, and the impact of urban transport infrastructure on the users’ sense of safety. Each of these topics contributes important insights and recommendations, which, while varied in focus, collectively create a cohesive picture of contemporary challenges and directions for development in public governance.
Help Me Develop Me
Authors: A. Lamont Williams  , Tobruk Blaine  , Annalisa Duarte
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this case study was to assess the effectiveness of practicum-based learning in college athlete development programming at a Division I institution. This case study featured a social cognitive career theory (SCCT) approach to understanding the experiences of 19 Division I collegiate athletes who participated in athlete-centric conferences for the first time. Athletes were interviewed both before and after the conferences. After data collection, the authors conducted a narrative analysis of their experiences to determine how well the athlete’s experiences fit within the SCCT model. The findings provide a case for developing a mandated policy for college athlete development frameworks featuring a practicum-based learning baseline and utilizing the SCCT framework for athlete development and advancement.
Beyond the Flutie Factor
Authors: Farah Ishaq  , Dominique Kropp
Published: December 2024

One of the effects of intercollegiate athletic success that has been commonly studied is the impact success has on the overall institution. The increase in the quantity and quality of applicants to higher education institutions is commonly referred to as the “Flutie factor.” This is a reference to Boston College’s Doug Flutie, whose famous pass in a 1984 football game contributed to a victory over University of Miami. To revisit and expand this phenomenon, a qualitative research design was implemented to determine the role of athletics success in student applications and attendance at North Dakota State University. An open-ended survey was sent to incoming, out-of-state freshmen at the university. Results were analyzed for themes beginning with awareness and then identifying other impacts athletics success had on their application and ultimately attending NDSU. The authors determined that athletic success played a role in initial awareness, decision to attend, and community and student engagement. The Flutie factor is a known effect of athletic success, and these results further the understanding of the phenomenon, resulting in key implications in utilizing athletic success to increase applications, enrollment, retention, and financial success.
A RETROSPECTIVE LONG-TERM ASSESSMENT OF ANTIBODY RESPONSE IN MELIOIDOSIS ANIMALS
Authors: Zakharova Irina B. , Tereshko Dmitrii L. , Chirskov Pavel R. , Bui Lan Anh T. , Thomson Shaun , Novitskaya Irina V.
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Melioidosis is an extremely fatal infection disease caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. The causative agent of melioidosis is an environmental saprophyte and has significant adaptive potential allowing it to undergo rapid adaptation to a wide variety of ecological niches. The bacterium is a facultative intracellular pathogen that can infect many animal species as well as humans. B. pseudomallei has no pronounced tropism for certain tissues of the infected organism, which explains the diversity and non-specificity of clinical manifestations, the most common of which are pneumonia with or without bacteremia and sepsis. Тhis diagnosis is established on the basis of laboratory test data; cultured pathogen isolation is considered the gold standard. The indirect hemagglutination test remains a popular method for rapid melioidosis diagnostics, and increased paired serum antibody titer is an important criterion for making a diagnosis. The purpose of this work was to conduct a retrospective analysis of the long-term dynamic antibody response in Asiatic black bears that died from melioidosis and contact animals from the Vietnam Bear Rescue Center as well as molecular genetic analysis of isolated B. pseudomallei strains. Bacterial cultures were isolated from dead animals and identified by PCR as B. pseudomallei as B. pseudomallei. Multilocus sequence typing showed that strains VP069 and VP044 had the same and hitherto undescribed sequence type (STnew), and strains VP161 and VP200 shared ST541. The pairwise strain identity with the same ST was confirmed by a core genome multilocus sequence typing. A retrospective analysis of 546 serum samples from 226 bears was carried out. All animals that died from melioidosis were seropositive for B. pseudomallei. Among the healthy bears studied, 24% were seropositive. It was found that in humans and bears there is a general trend in the dynamics of the antibody response. Similar to humans, bears with bacteriologically confirmed melioidosis were observed to have both higher and lower serum antibody titer, as well as a constant and fairly high titer, which shows the diagnostic ineffectiveness elevated paired serum antibody titer in melioidosis.
Blood anti-surface proteins Echovirus 30 (Enterovirus, Picornaviridae) antibodies in residents of the Nizhny Novgorod region
Authors: Melentev Dmitrii A. , Novikov D. V. , Lapin V. A. , Mokhonova E. V. , Tsiganova М. I. , Manakova E. A. , Novikov V. V.
Published: December 2024

Echovirus 30 (Е30) is an enterovirus that causes severe forms of serous meningitis. Over many years, E30 virus has caused serous meningitis outbreaks all over the world including Russia, but the status of anti-E30 population immunity remains unexplored. In 2022, the average percentage of all pediatric admission enterovirus cases in Russia was 97%; the most severe E30 infection cases were registered in children under 17 years of age. The virus capsid surface contains proteins VP1, VP2 and VP3 with homologous epitopes common to other enterovirus proteins, which allows them to be used as an antigen for antibody detection. The work was aimed at assessing frequency of different antibody classes specific to full-length recombinant E30 VP1, VP2 and VP3 proteins. 331 blood serum samples collected from 2 months-to 61 year-old residents of the Nizhny Novgorod region were used in the study. E30 VP1, VP2 and VP3 proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli, purified chromatographically and used antigenically for detection of IgA, IgG and IgM antibodies by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent immunoassay. Most study subjects had antibodies specific to only one or two of the E30 surface proteins. IgA, IgG and IgM antibodies to three recombinant proteins were detected simultaneously in 0.3%, 4.2% and 2.7% of cases. Totally, anti-E30 protein IgG antibodies were detected in 29.9% of cases. The maximum detection rate of antibodies (50.0%) was recorded in pediatric groups that decreased with age. IgG antibodies were found in 9.3% of the tested individuals. The detection rate (16.6%) peaked in the age group of children from 7 to 11 years. The IgM antibody-obtained data evidence that during the study period, almost one in every ten-study participant was infected with enteroviruses. The results of analyzing long-term immunity specific to enteroviral proteins showed the highest frequency of detected IgG antibodies in children that tended to decline with age as well as about continued E30 virus circulation in the Nizhny Novgorod region.
COMPARATIVE MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS FOR STABLE AND PROGRESSIVE PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS
Authors: Gimaldinova Natalia Evgenevna , Lyubovtseva Lyubov Alekseevna , Sergeev Alexander Vladislavovich
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Objective - to identify a leading link in local and lung neuroendocrine immune during tuberculosis.
Subject and methods. 60 cases of stable and progressive tuberculosis were studied. The study was conducted in 2 anatomical zones: tuberculoma capsule and adjacent areas. A comparison (apparently healthy) group contained resected samples of the upper lobes in the right lung collected from 10 men died in an accident lacking tuberculosis over lifespan. An immunohistochemistry with monoclonal antibodies against CD8 and CD4 markers was used to assess local immune response. Lung catecholamine level was analyzed by the Falk-Hillarp luminescent histochemical method.
Results. When assessing localized lung expression of the studied markers in " apparently healthy group, the number of CD4+ and CD8+ cells was observed mainly in the interstitial space: the former prevailed over the latter. In stable tuberculoma, higher lymphocyte number in the capsule was revealed that dominated by T-killers vs. T-helpers. In the perifocal zone of stable tuberculoma vs. apparently healthy group, the number of immune cells decreased, but at the same time zones where CD4-positive lymphocytes form contacts with interstitial macrophages were detected. In the capsule of progressive tuberculosis, the number of CD4+ and CD8+ cells increased, containing more T-killers than T-helpers. In the perifocal zone, there is a decrease in CD4+ T lymphocyte numberparalleled with increase in CD8+ cells. The number of intraalveolar and interstitial macrophages sometimes contacting CD4+ lymphocytes increases. Cytotoxic lymphocytes concentrate around blood vessels. When studying catecholamine level, it was found to increase in mast cells in all studied areas during stable and progressive tuberculosis. In macrophages, the catecholamine level decreases in stable disease, and increases sharply in progressive progressive course.
Conclusion. The regulation of the phases of tuberculous inflammation course is carried out by various cellular interactions, depends on mycobacteria load in lung tissue and macrophage catecholamine level.
3D cell cultures: prospects for use in virology
Authors: Kuznetsova Tatyana A. , Aliev M. R. , Mikhalko A. А. , Shchelkanov M. Yu.
Published: December 2024

As a rule, traditional methods of cell cultivation in vitro using monolayer cell lines (2D cultivation) are unable to simulate the structural organization of a three-dimensional (3D) cell network in vivo and are insufficient for modeling living tissues to study intercellular signaling, proliferation, differentiation, gene and protein expression, reactions to various stimuli and drug metabolism. Using 2D cultivation, it is impossible to adequately reproduce a virus-host cell interaction and disease pathogenesis at the level of individual tissues. The technological platform for obtaining the most reliable results is 3D cell cultivation. Based on the analysis of scientific literature contained in the main databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Elsevier, Google Scholar and RSCI), our review provides a brief description of various types of 3D cultures, as well as methods for their production and viability maintenance. The modern prospects of their use in virological research are discussed. The main aspects for application of 3D-cultures are analyzed: isolation, cultivation and study of mechanisms for virus reproduction, virus-host interaction, the study of immunopathogenesis and epidemiological prognosis of viral infections. The possibilities of 3D cultures for production and testing of vaccines, antiviral drugs, and, generally, for choosing a treatment strategy of viral infections are analyzed. In addition to the advantages and prospects of using 3D-cell cultures in virology, their disadvantages are also assessed. Special attention is devoted to such ex vivo 3D systems, as organoids and “organ-on-a-chip”, which largely meet the requirements of laboratory models in virological research. The hallmark characteristics of organoids is imitation of tissue organization, functionality and genetic specificity in a specific tissue or part of an organ. This approach allows to markedly increase model sensitivity for virus isolation. The review analyzes the data from numerous studies concerning the use of organoids to examine human and animal viruses, which display affinity for certain tissues and the data on assessing the features of immunopathogenesis behind respiratory viral infections.
Experience of using the preparation Glucaferon within a combination therapy of moderate SARS-CoV-2-caused novel coronavirus infection
Authors: Bezrukova Evgeniya V. , Vorobeychikov E. V. , Konusova V. G. , Simbirtsev A. S. , Artyushkin S. A. , Shaty N. O.
Published: December 2024

Here, we present the results of a limited, blind, placebo-controlled study examining the effect of the multi-component preparation Glucaferon consisting primarily of beta-glucans obtained from the edible Oyster mushroom, and biologically active substances with verified antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity on the effectiveness of routine therapy for moderate-to-severe acute SARS-CoV-2-caused infection. There were enrolled 60 subjects (males and females) aged 18 to 75 years, who received a 10-day-long therapy in accordance with the “Prevention, Diagnostics and Treatment of new coronavirus infection (COVID-19). Temporary Guidelines. Version 11”. Inclusion criteria were as follows: males and females aged 18 to 75 years, with positive PCR SARS-CoV-2 result, body temperature ≥ 38.5°C for 3 days; presence of typical CT scan confirmed coronavirus pneumonia; patients’ consent to hospitalization and participation in the study. Patients included in the study were randomized into 2 groups per 30 subjects. In control group, subjects received routine treatment and placebo; in comparison group — routine treatment combined with the preparation Glucaferon. By the end of treatment, all patients in both groups showed positive dynamics. An X-ray examination revealed significantly decreased intensity and size of pre-identified “ground glass” areas of compaction in lung tissue. Residual effects manifested as reticular changes, low-intensity areas of compaction without clear contours. Blood oxygen saturation was also restored to normal levels. Anosmia in both groups was noted by no more than 6% of patients. Patients’ assessment of the intensity of the two most severe symptoms, cough and shortness of breath, using visual analogue scales, also revealed positive dynamics. Despite that the majority of study patients had prerequisites for a complicated COVID-19 course as well as critical levels of laboratory parameters detected in some patients upon admission, the use of Glucaferon caused no negative or adverse reactions, nor stimulated an immune response, while the preparation Glucaferon demonstrated a clinically significant anti-inflammatory effect.
Nosocomial Klebsiella pneumoniae infection in a cardiac surgery hospital: clinical and microbiological features
Authors: Kuznetsova M. V. , Mihailovskaya V. S. , Kudryavtseva L. G. , Sergevnin V. I.
Published: December 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae dominates among the pathogens that cause healthcare-associated infections and closely associated with high mortality of patients undergoing heart surgery. K. pneumoniae spp. are classified into classical (cKp) and hypervirulent (hvKp): cKp causing nosocomial infections often exerting a multidrug resistance phenotype (MDR-cKp), whereas hvKp are sensitive to antibiotics, but have high virulence. Earlier, we presented the molecular genetic characteristics of K. pneumoniae bacteria isolated from patients at the cardiac surgical hospital. Here, clinical and microbiological risk factors as well as thoase underlying infection development and adverse outcome of nosocomial infection caused by K. pneumoniae were evaluated. Along with initially severe comorbidities, the most significant risk factors were the following: female gender, age over 65 years, length of stay at the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care as well as other detected comorbidities. The average length of stay was 1.7 times longer among MDR-cKp vs hvKp patients. Complications (multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, bloodstream infections), as well as mortality rate were recorded only in MDR-cKp patient group. Thus, in hospital period, K. pneumoniae multidrug resistance rather than hypervirulence turned out to be a more contributing risk factor. It should be noted that one convergent MDR-hvKp isolate has been detected, which may pose a serious problem in treatment of patients upon further spread of such K. pneumoniae bacteria.
Phenotypic and genetic analysis of Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from community-acquired pneumonia patients in Rostov-on-Don in 2021–2023
Authors: Rykova Violetta A. , Podladchikova O. N. , Anisimova A. S. , Aronova N. V. , Vodopyanov A. S. , Temyakova S. Yu. , Gudueva E. N.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. Here, we present a study of 33 Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated in Rostov-on-Don in 2021–2023 from patients with community-acquired pneumonia. The bacterial strains were analyzed according to the traits known to be linked to hypervirulence. The aim of the study was to compare of the strains by analyzing phenotypic (siderophore activity, hypermucoviscosity, bacteriophage sensitivity) and genotypic (presence of plasmids, siderophore genes, and rmpA and rmpA2 genes) properties. Materials and methods. Assessment of bacteriophage sensitivity, hypermucoviscosity using “string test”, siderophore activity on chrome azurol S containing plates, high-molecular weight plasmids content, and whole-genome sequencing. Results. Sequencing of 11 strains differing in mucoviscosity allowed to establish that all hypermucoviscous strains contained the rmpA gene, whereas the rmpA2 gene was either absent or contained single nucleotide insertions or deletions, leading to a reading frame shift. The same mutations in rmpA2 were observed in non-mucoviscous strains, all of which lacked the rmpA gene. The strains differed by the presence of four siderophore clusters, the number of which did not correlate with the siderophore activity. The lack of rmpA and salmochelin biosynthesis genes but presence of its receptor gene in the non-mucoviscous strains suggest that they have deletions, leading to the loss of the hypermucoviscous phenotype. A study of 33 strains showed that they were able to dissociate, forming dark and light colonies, which were observed in both hypermucoviscous and non-hypermucoviscous strains. In dark but not light clones obtained from hypermucoviscous strains, this property was preserved. In contrast, both clone variants of non-hypermucoviscous strains retained this property. An analysis of different clones of 17 strains showed that dark vs light clones had reduced siderophore activity and bacteriophage sensitivity. The clone genomes did not differ in the siderophore clusters, but rmpA was revealed only in the dark clones of hypermucoviscous strains. In non-mucoviscous strains, this gene was not found in both clones, whereas differences in siderophore activity and bacteriophage sensitivity were preserved. Conclusion. K. pneumoniae hypermucoviscosity phenotype is associated with the presence of at least the rmpA, while intact rmpA2 is not required. The differences in the colony morphology, clone siderophore activity, and bacteriophage sensitivity are not related to rmpA and rmpA2, but rather result from an unknown yet mechanism.
REVIEW OF ACTUAL RISKS ON AGGRAVATING INFECTIOUS DISEASES EPIDEMIOLOGICAL SITUATION IN THE INDO-WEST-PACIFIC REGION IMPORTANT FOR SANITARY PROTECTION OF THE TERRITORY OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors: Ivanova Aleksandra Vasil'evna , Zubova Anastasija Alekseevna , Kas'jan Zhanetta Andreevna , Dmitrieva Ljudmila Nikolaevna , Chumachkova Elena Arnol'dovna , Pospelov Mihail Valer'evich , Zimirova Anastasija Aleksandrovna , Shilova Lidija Dmitrievna , Jarulina Svetlana Aleksandrovna , Shcherbakova Svetlana Anatolievna , Kutyrev Vladimir Viktorovich
Published: December 2024

Here, we review summarized epidemiological data and analyze the situation on infectious diseases in the countries of the Indo-West-Pacific region that require measures for sanitary protection of the territory of the Russian Federation. The main source of relevant information was the official websites and periodicals of the WHO, Ministries of Health of the respective countries. The data from other international organizations (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, World Organization for Animal Health), electronic aggregators of operational information (ProMED-mail, EpiSouth, arbo-zoonet, etc.), data from articles published in peer-reviewed journals covering epidemiological issues were used. In recent years, due to a set of reasons, the risk of infectious diseases entering Russia from the Indo-West-Pacific region has increased manifold: actively developing tourism to Asian countries, higher number of trade and economic ties, increased number of direct flights with the countries of the region. The paper systematizes data on morbidity and territorial distribution of diseases in the Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions by assessing potential risks for persons visiting it. During the analysis, it has been established that the epidemiological situation currently developing in the Indo-Pacific region poses a significant threat to the sanitary and epidemiological welfare of the population primarily due to the increasing risks for spread of dangerous infectious diseases into the territory of the Russian Federation. The most probable is the risk of spreading of infectious diseases such as cholera, malaria and dengue fever, the unfavorable epidemiological situation on which has developed in recent years in the region. At the same time, the presence of direct transportation links between Russian regions and a number of countries in the region (Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Maldives, India, Mongolia, China, Myanmar) multiplies the risk of spreading for such diseases. According to the previously developed methodology for calculating the risk of infectious diseases entering the territory of the Russian Federation, it was established that there is a high risk of dengue fever entry from Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, Thailand and the Philippines.
SEROPREVALENCE, RISK ASSOCIATIONS, AND TESTING COST OF SCREENING FOR HCV, HBV, AND HIV INFECTIONS AMONG A GROUP OF PRE-OPERATIVE EGYPTIAN PATIENTS
Authors: Hanna Hany William Z. , Shahin Rasha Mohamad Hosny , Samy Lamees Ahmed
Published: December 2024

Background: Routine pre-operative testing for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and other blood-borne viruses, Hepatitis B Virus, Hepatitis C Virus (HBV, HCV) has been stated as a strategy to reduce the risk of healthcare workers' infection by preventing and reducing their infection. However, the argument that screening is essential or not is strong. Aim: This study aims to determine the incidence of HBV, HCV, and HIV infections identified during pre-operative screening in a cohort of Egyptian individuals, along with the associated risk factors and the subsequent testing costs. Methods: This study comprised 138 patients, with 92 (66.7%) males and 46 (33.3%) females. All patients scheduled for surgical procedures underwent testing for HCV Ab, HBsAg, and HIV Ag/ Ab by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay conducted with the ARCHITECT i2000SR Immunoassay (Abbot Japan CO., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan). Among the participants, 23 out of 138 (16.7%) tested positive for HCV, while 5 out of 138 (3.3%) showed equivocal results for HCV, and 110 out of 138 (79.7%) tested negative for HCV. Additionally, 2 out of 138 (1.4%) were positive for HBsAg, while 136 out of 138 (98.6%) tested negative for HBsAg. Furthermore, 1 out of 138 (0.7%) was found to be HIV-positive, while 137 out of 138 (99.3%) tested negative for HIV. Results: The prevalence of each infection detected through pre-operative testing of HCV,HBV and HIV and a questionnaire was compared. Furthermore, we calculated the screening cost per confirmed infection by assessing the incidence of infections linked to different risk factors, ages, genders, and levels of HBV vaccination. Conclusions: Age markedly impacted HCV and HBV rates. There was no link between viral infections and gender. The expenses associated with each affirmative result were 1763 LE for HCV, 5520 LE for HBV, and 22080 LE for HIV. While self-assessment through questionnaires can be partially efficacious, it lacks sufficient screening accuracy.
SURGICAL SITE INFECTION IN HIV-POSITIVE PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC SPONDYLITIS
Authors: Aitova Yana Alexandrovna , Goncharov Artemiy Evgenievich , Zhuravlev Vyacheslav Yuryevich , Dmitriev Kirill Alexandrovich , Aslanov Batyrbek Ismelovich , Krasnov Ilya Mikhailovich , Mushkin Aleksandr Yuryevich , Yablonskiy Pyotr Kazimirovich
Published: December 2024

Introduction. The epidemic process of medical care-related infections complies to the general laws for development of epidemic process, although it has specific features. The probability for development of surgical site infection becomes precipitated by risk factors, which contribute to emergence of surgical site infection based on traits of pathology, patient populations and the specifics of hospital facility. The aim of the study was to evaluate HIV-related effect on developing surgical site infection in patients with chronic spondylitis.
Materials and methods. A retrospective cohort epidemiological study was conducted. The inclusion criteria were met by 809 examined patients including 119 HIV-positive patients who underwent 192 surgical interventions. At admission, a patient provided a discharge summary describing the disease profile as well as HIV-positive status verified by infectious disease specialist through a comprehensive data assessment, no more than a month prior to admission. HIV-infected and HIV-free patients comprised exposed and unexposed cohort, respectively.
Results. Tuberculous spinal lesions prevailed in HIV patients (p≤0.001; RR=4.864; 95% CI [3.070- 7.707]). Almost all patients were at stage 4 HIV, and one patient – stage 3. The incidence of surgical site infection in patients with chronic infectious spondylitis was 5.01 per 100 operations (49 cases per 978 operations), in HIV patients it developed only in 2 cases of tuberculous spondylitis (the incidence was 1.04 per 100 operations). HIV-infection did not increase the risk of surgical site infection (p=0.009; RR=0.174; 95% CI [0.043 - 0.711]. surprisingly, it turned out to observe higher risk of revision interventions in HIV-free patients (p=0.007; RR = 1.783; 95% CI [1.149 - 2.768]).
Conclusions. HIV-positive patients had higher risk of developing a tuberculous than a nonspecific lesion. The HIV status of patients with chronic infectious spondylitis did not significantly affect development of surgical site infection and increased incidence of revision operations. A potential reason for the final result is the long-term use of anti-tuberculosis drugs acting, in this case, as a preventive measure against developing surgical site infection.
THE ETIOLOGICAL PROFILE AND ALTERATIONS IN CEREBROSPINAL FLUID CHARACTERISTICS IN PATIENTS WITH BACTERIAL MENINGITIS
Authors: Chernysheva Olga O , Potemkina Maria S , Gadzhikulieva Madina M , Davydova Irina V , Smirnova Tatyana Yu , Partilkhaeva Irina Ch , Shutko Svetlana A
Published: December 2024

Currently, bacterial meningitis (BM) remains a form of life-threatening infectious pathology, with a mortality rate ranging from 4% to 35% and poor prognosis often accompanied by diverse specific and non-specific complications, including infectious toxic shock, cerebral edema, ventricular inflammation, hydrocephalus, acute cerebrovascular accidents, venous sinus thrombosis, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) syndrome, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) syndrome, inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone, and systemic inflammatory response syndrome. In clinical practice, the early identification of the causative microorganism and the implementation of proper antibiotic treatment, as well as a comprehensive assessment of the patient's status and management, are crucial for minimizing a risk of related severe complications and mortality. The BM etiology is characterized by a highly variable nature, contingent upon a multitude of factors such as geographic location, temporal context, patient age, immunological status, and other variables. Over the past two to three decades, advancements in conjugate vaccines and the use implementation of antibiotic treatment have brought about alterations in the spectrum of pathogens responsible for meningitis. The objective of this study was to delve into the etiological profile and prognostic implications of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) parameters among patients with diagnosed meningitis admitted to the Neuroinfectious Diseases Division of the Infectious Clinical Hospital №2 (Moscow) between 2022 and 2023. A retrospective analysis of medical records of meningitis patients admitted to the Infectious Clinical Hospital №2 during 2022–2023 was conducted. The data were analyzed using the k-means clustering algorithm implemented in the Loginom analytics software to create a scenario, as well as OLAP cubes. The study involved the analysis of medical records for 110 patients aged 18-89 years old. Among the BM pathogens identified, Neisseria meningitidis emerged as the most prevalent in this patient cohort, accounting for 68.2% of cases. Within the group of meningococcal meningitis cases, serovariants A and W135 were the most frequently detected, accounting for 49.3% and 33.3%, respectively. Significant alterations in cerebrospinal fluid parameters, characterized by elevated cell counts and lowered glucose levels, were observed among patients with purulent meningitis resulting from serogroup A Neisseria meningitidis infections. A combination of elevated baseline cell level along with high concentrations of proteins, and lactate, coupled with the presence of D-dimer in cerebrospinal fluid, has been associated with a severe disease progression and the emergence of critical and life-threatening sequelae.
TIME SERIES ANALYSIS FOR MODELING AND PREDICTING CONFIRMED CASES OF INFLUENZA A IN ALGERIA
Authors: Seba Djillali , Benaklef Nesrine , Belaide Karima
Published: December 2024

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Abstract
Influenza A is a subtype of the influenza virus that primarily infects birds and mammals, causing respiratory illness. It is characterized by its ability to mutate rapidly, leading to various strains and occasional pandemics.
Objective: This paper is dedicated to studying the distribution behavior and predicting confirmed cases of Influenza A within the Algerian context, a highly infectious dis- ease that causes widespread illness and deaths both in Algeria and globally.
Methods: To predict confirmed cases of Influenza A, we implemented several statistical models, including ARIMA, Seasonal ARIMA (SARIMA), ETS, BATS, and the machine learning technique RNN, which is widely recognized in the literature. We then conducted a comparative study using performance measures to evaluate these models.
Results: We used RMSE to determine the best-performing model. Our findings indicate that RNN outperformed the others due to its ability to handle complex patterns, including seasonal components and memory. SARIMA and BATS also performed well, thanks to their capacity to manage seasonal patterns. In contrast, ARIMA and ETS showed the poorest performance.
Conclusion: This study employed a comprehensive approach to develop a model for predicting confirmed cases of Influenza A in Algeria. The results enhance our understanding of the potential future behavior of this disease and contribute to effective risk management strategies.
Urinary tract infection by Streptococcus equinus: a pediatric case presentation
Authors: Seitopoulou C. , Stamouli M. , Kalliora G. , Mourtzikou Antonia
Published: December 2024

Streptococcus equinus is a non-enterococcal group D Streptococcus, Gram positive, non-hemolytic, lactic acid bacterium. The incidence of colonization in humans increases in rural areas, where there is high risk of exposure to animal feces and fermented food products. It is associated with specific diseases, such as osteoarticular infections, meningitis, biliary infections, infective endocarditis and colorectal cancer. A male 10-year-old patient, asymptomatic, without underlying medical conditions, was referred for routine check-up at the Outpatient Pediatric Clinic of the Nikea General Hospital, Piraeus, Greece. According to patient history, he had spent two weeks at a summer camp, where he had direct contact with horses, such as horse riding, horse feeding, watering, horse care, etc. His brother, although he had the same contacts and activities, did not present an infection. Examinations of the eyes, mouth, ears, nose, throat and abdomen were normal. Laboratory tests showed mild leukocytosis (12 000/mm3, with 80% neutrophils) and slightly increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (30 mm/h). Urinalysis and microscopy revealed bacteriuria by nitrite test and pyuria, so urine cultures were performed (Multistix 10 SG Reagent Strips, Siemens Healthineers). The urine culture grew monomicrobial S. equinus 105 CFU/ml. The bacterium was identified by the RapID™ REMEL ONE identification system (Thermo Fisher Scientific). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed resistance to Clindamycin, Tetracycline, Cefotaxime and high susceptibility to Erythromycin. The patient received treatment with Erythromycin. Streptococcus equinus has been isolated from the bowel in approximately 7% of the general population. Urinary tract infections are less common. Risk factors for human colonization are considered living in rural areas and having contact with animal feces. The patient, during his stay at the summer camp, had probably contact with horse feces during the relevant activities and therefore infected.
First principle study of the physical properties of actinide oxides. A review
Authors:   Institute of High Temperature Electrochemistry of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Galashev Alexander Y.
Published: December 2024

Reprocessing spent nuclear fuel creates the conditions for converting nuclear energy to a clean and sustainable energy. Thermal conductors in reactors are molten salts, the safe use of which is based on an accurate knowledge of their thermophysical properties. Due to the difficulty of experimentally measuring these properties, computational methods are coming to the fore. The main component of SNF is uranium dioxide, the change in the structure, energy and electronic properties of which when oxygen is removed from the system and plutonium is added to it was studied using DFT + U calculations. The influence of noble metals present in spent fuel on the process of direct reduction of irradiated nuclear fuel is considered. This work also examines the effects of doping thorium with uranium when Th-U fuel is used in a nuclear reactor. The paper presents data on the calculation of heat capacity, thermal conductivity, elastic moduli and phase transitions occurring in UO2 at high pressures. The thermodynamic stability of actinide oxides is discussed in detail. The ways of improving DFT calculations to increase the accuracy of determining the properties of these nuclear materials are analyzed.
Revealing the effect of local structure on phase equilibria in binary molten salts
Authors:   Institute of High Temperature Electrochemistry of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Kobelev Mikhail A.
Published: December 2024

Liquidus curves for LiF-KF and LiF-KCl mixtures are calculated from the two-phase technique in the framework of molecular dynamics simulation. The calculated topology of the solid-liquid equilibria is in excellent correspondence with the experimental data. The local structures in liquid LiF-KF and LiF-KCl mixtures are analyzed by the partial structure factors (PSFs) calculations. For the reciprocal mixture LiF-KCl of equimolar composition, the appearance of a significant intensity peak in the region of small k and only a decrease in the height of the principal peaks of the PSFs for lithium-lithium, fluorine-fluorine, and lithium-fluorine pairs is observed. An intermediate range ordering appears for the Li+ and F– ions, which is associated with clustering of these species and is reflected in the s-shape form for the liquidus curve for LiF-KCl mixture.
The Role of Carbon Taxing and Green Innovation in Achieving Decarbonization Goals in Global South
Authors:   Ghazi University, Punjab, Pakistan, Rahman Zia Ur , Khan Wajid ,   University of Baltistan Skardu, Skardu, Pakistan,   University of Religions and Denominations, Qom, Iran, Hussain Dostdar ,   Lobachevsky State University, Nizhni Novgorod, Russian Federation
Published: December 2024

Environmental degradation, pollution, and rising temperatures pose a hazard to the world. A carbon-free economy requires policies to preserve sustainability, development, and the environment. Carbon taxing has emerged as a new hope for low-carbon sustainable economic growth after its successful trial in the developed and developing world. Implementing carbon taxation, energy transition, and green innovation can provide effective answers for defending the globe from environmental challenges. Therefore, both developed and developing economies focus on carbon taxing and green innovation to cope with carbon neutrality targets. The objectives of this study were to examine carbon taxing, green innovation, energy transition, digital infrastructure, sustainable mineral extraction and gross domestic product in acquiring carbon neutrality in Global South (China, India and Pakistan). For this purpose, the global south dataset from 1990–2022 was analyzed. Novel econometric methods Cross-sectional augmented autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) were used for estimations. The results reveal that carbon taxing, green innovation (GI), energy transition (EN), digital infrastructure (DI), sustainable mineral extraction (MN) and gross domestic product (GDP) significantly affects carbon neutrality. Furthermore, carbon taxing, energy transition, and green innovation significantly assist in attaining carbon neutrality in the long run. Green innovation has a coefficient of 4.3156 with a p-value of 0.000, indicating a highly significant impact on decarbonization. Energy transition, digital Infrastructure, mineral extraction, and GDP also show statistically significant effects with p-values all below 0.01. Policy measures are required in carbon taxation, energy transition, green innovation, and digital infrastructure usage in achieving carbon neutrality. The governments should encourage the use of green energy solutions through subsidies and support technology that reduces carbon emissions. This study contributes a novel framework of carbon taxing and green innovation policies for carbon neutralization in the global south.
The Impact of Blocked Credit and Unavailability of Input Tax Credit on MSMEs in India: An Empirical Study
Authors:   Assam Don Bosco University, Azara, India, Sureka Anchit , Bordoloi Nabasmita ,   Assam Don Bosco University, Azara, India
Published: December 2024

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India has brought about significant changes in the way businesses operate, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). One of the key challenges faced by MSMEs under GST is the issue of blocked credits and non-availability of input tax credits (ITC). This study aims to examine the impact of these challenges on MSMEs in India and provide empirical evidence to support the findings. Identifying the specific provisions under GST that lead to blocked credits and non-availability of ITC for MSMEs, assessing the financial implications of these provisions on MSMEs and exploring potential solutions or policy recommendations to address these challenges are the main objectives of this particular research study. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques. A comprehensive survey was conducted among a representative sample of 400 MSMEs across various sectors and regions in India, comprising 55% respondents from small enterprises, 30% micro-enterprises and the remaining 15% from medium enterprises. The results reveal that a significant proportion of MSMEs face challenges in claiming ITC due to provisions such as blocked credits for specific goods and services, compliance requirements, and lack of clarity in certain GST regulations. These challenges have led to increased working capital requirements, cash flow constraints, and higher operational costs for MSMEs, potentially impacting their competitiveness and growth prospects. Furthermore, the findings of this study highlight the need for policy interventions and regulatory reforms to streamline the GST regime for MSMEs.
Organizational and applied aspects of follow-up monitoring of patients with prediabetes by a primary care physician. Expert council resolution
Authors: Drapkina O. M. , Lavrenova E. A. , Abdulganieva D. I. , Gomova T. A. , Livzan M. A. , Sanina N. P. , Sharapova Yu. A. , Shepel R. N. , Yafarova A. A.
Published: December 2024

The steady increase in the prevalence of carbohydrate metabolism disorders worldwide, with the vast majority of type 2 diabetes (T2D), specifies the need to improve disease prevention measures. A special niche in the preventive continuum is occupied by early carbohydrate metabolism disorders, the treatment of which makes a significant contribution to T2D prevention. The absence of a characteristic clinical performance, inadequate apprehensive attitude of healthcare professionals contributes to unnoticed development of carbohydrate metabolism disorders, while progressive disorders lead to micro-, macrovascular complications and the manifestation of T2D. On September 16, 2024, under the chairmanship of Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences O. M. Drapkina and under the aegis of the Russian Society for the Prevention of Noncommunicable Diseases, the Expert Council was held  on  Organizational  and  Applied  Aspects  of  Follow-up  Monitoring  of  Patients  with  Prediabetes  by a General Practitioner. The meeting was attended by the main external experts in internal medicine of regional health protection executive authorities, leading experts of the National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine and regional branches of the Russian Society for the Prevention of Noncommunicable Diseases, who presented current related problems and proposals for their solution. The Expert Council resolution is presented in this article.