bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BRAF V600E Mutation in Odontogenic Keratocyst: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cunha Jéssica da Silva , Ribeiro Lucas Nascimento , Martins-de-Barros Allan Vinícius , Severino-Lazo Raisa Jordana Geraldine , Anjos Raíssa Soares dos , Almeida Renata de Albuquerque Cavalcanti , Islam Mohammed N. , Carvalho Marianne de Vasconcelos
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess the frequency of the BRAF V600E mutation in odontogenic keratocyst, correlating the methods of evaluation and detection of the mutated protein. Material and Methods: This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD 42022379570). An electronic search was performed up to January 20th, 2024, in the databases of Medline, Scopus, Embase, and gray literature (Google Scholar, BDTD). One hundred and sixty-six cases in seven studies were included. The methodological quality of the studies was performed according to the Joanna Briggs Institute. Results: Only two of the seven studies reported positivity for the BRAF V600E mutation, both by molecular methods. In the remaining five studies, the BRAF V600E mutation was not present, one evaluated by RT-PCR, three by DNA sequencing, and one by IHC. Conclusion: Through analysis of the articles, the BRAF V600E gene mutation alone does not play a significant role in the pathogenesis of OKC. Further research and new studies are necessary.
Evaluation of the Effect of Diode Laser on Healing after Gingivectomy
Authors: Mehrotra Shalabh , Ahuja Amit , Chowdhary Zoya , Adhupia Kritika S. , Bajaj Aashima , Loitongbam Monika
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation of diode laser on the healing of gingiva following gingivectomy. Material and Methods: 15 patients with inflammatory gingival enlargement in the age group 18-65 years were enrolled for the study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were divided into two groups, i.e., control and test, with a total of 30 sites. Gingivectomy was performed with a scalpel, and the test site was irradiated with a diode laser, which was repeated after 7 days, finally, the patients were recalled after 21 days for re-evaluation. Soft tissue parameters were recorded at baseline and 21 days, and visual analog scale was recorded at 7 days. Also, tissue was excised and sent for histological analysis both at baseline and 21 days, and the data was subjected to statistical analysis. Results: A clinically significant improvement was observed in patient response to pain in the test group compared to the control group (p=0.001). There was an observable improvement in tissue color in the soft tissue analysis (p=0.001) and a significant reduction in the inflammatory component in the histological analysis in the test group as compared to the control group (p=0.001). Conclusion: Diode laser has a photobiomodulation effect on wound healing after gingivectomy, thus enhancing the rate of healing and decreasing post-operative pain.
DESEMPENHO DAS PME E CRIAÇÃO DE EMPREGO NA ÁFRICA SUBSAARIANA: PAPEL DA INOVAÇÃO DIGITAL
Authors: Solaja Oluwasegun Abraham , Oyedele Olusegun Ola , Olajugba Oluwapemi John , Abiodun Abolaji Joachim , Edewor Ogheneofejiro Jesujoba , Solaja Omobolanle Omotayo , Kehinde Oluwatimilehin Victoria , Akerele Faith Oluwatobiloba
Published: February 2025

RESUMO O presente estudo investiga a relação entre a inovação digital, o desempenho das pequenas e médias empresas (PMEs) e a criação de emprego na África Subsaariana (SSA). Examina também a forma como o desempenho das PMEs medeia a relação entre a inovação digital e a criação de emprego. Utilizando dados obtidos de 655 PMEs na SSA, descobrimos que a inovação digital tem potencial para ajudar as PMEs a criar empregos e melhorar o seu desempenho. Nossa análise confirmou o papel mediador do desempenho das PMEs na relação entre a inovação digital e a criação de emprego; constatamos que a inovação digital está significativamente associada à melhoria do desempenho das PMEs, o que, por sua vez, aumenta a sua capacidade de criação de emprego. Este estudo contribui para a literatura ao apresentar evidências empíricas sobre o papel da inovação digital na criação de emprego e no desempenho das PMEs e o papel mediador do desempenho das PMEs na relação entre a inovação digital e a criação de emprego.
National Digital Education Policy: literacy and citizenship for comprehensive education
Authors: Neves Ogaciano dos Santos , Spósito Marcos André Fernandes
Published: February 2025

Abstract The world was ravaged by the Covid-19 pandemic, causing: social isolation, school closures, increased educational and socioeconomic inequality and maintenance of structural duality. During this period, to reduce the impacts of the humanitarian crisis on Brasil education, non-face-to-face teaching was chosen. A fact that maintained educational regression, since most of the actors in the teaching-learning process were not familiar with techniques, tools and digital resources that mediate distance learning. In 2023, the National Digital Education Policy (PNED) was approved; therefore, we seek to identify how PNED can benefit digital literacy and the comprehensive training of high school students. To this end, a state-of-the-art qualitative integrative literature review was carried out, based on the concepts of Karl Marx, István Mészáros, Pierre Lévy, Ricardo Antunes, Ana Coscarelli, scientific research, PNED and others. The main conclusions of the research are that the policy in question is not the panacea for education in the information society, nor the solution to the unreformable, uncontrollable and incorrigible capital system in force; although its application can ensure contemporary rights necessary for the exercise of digital citizenship, it does not in itself lead to an integral human formation of the student if there is no action by a progressive teacher imbued with the transformative ethical-political function.
Characterization of C/C Composites Produced Using 3D-preforms by CVD/CVI Method for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Çamyurdu Cemalettin , Ateş Şahin , Öksüz Kerim Emre , Demirkıran Ayşe Şükran
Published: February 2025

In this study, carbon/carbon (C/C) composite structures were produced by depositing a pyrolytic carbon matrix around carbon fibers found in a three-dimensional (3D) preform using the Chemical Vapor Infiltration (CVI) method. The preforms used as starting materials were in orthogonal fiber geometry and 3D carbon fiber knitting structure. The CVI process performed in the CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) device was carried out at 1250 ℃, under 2 mbar pressure, with a methane gas flow rate of 2.0 lt/min, for a total period of 312 hours gradually applied in an inert atmosphere consisting of argon and nitrogen gases. The produced block piece was processed to obtain small test samples; tensile and three-point bending tests were applied to the pieces, and their densities were measured. Samples were subjected to in-vitro biodegradation tests in 0.9 % isotonic sodium chloride solution by weight at 37 °C for a total of 21 days. The density and apparent porosity of the produced samples were measured to be 1.395 g/cm³ and 13.424%, respectively. The tensile strength and bending strength of the produced C/C composites were determined to be 252.5±6.20 MPa and 236.6±25.7 MPa, respectively. At the end of 21 days, the biodegradation ratio of C/C composites was calculated as 0.0095%.
The possibilities of predicting and reducing the risk of breast cancer in women against the background of the use of assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Belotserkovtseva L.D. , Klimova N.V. , Kuznetsov A.A.
Published: February 2025

Objective. To study the possibility of predicting the development of breast cancer against the background of the use of assisted reproductive technologies and to develop measures to reduce the risk of its development. Material and methods. Data from 5000 protocols of assistive reproductive technologies in 4500 patients were analyzed. All 4500 patients who planned pregnancy were necessarily examined by a mammologist-oncologist. The main group consisted of 77 patients who had used the largest (5 or more) number of methods of assisted reproductive technologies in their anamnesis. The data of the patients of the main group were analyzed by six independent experts — mammological oncologists. The expert information was processed using ordinal regression. The control group included 50 patients in whom assisted reproductive technologies were not used. Results. The methods of assessing the risk of developing breast cancer are analyzed. A model for predicting breast cancer in women who have undergone assisted reproductive technology procedures has been developed. The calculation of individual risks of breast cancer development in the groups of patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology procedures and the control group was carried out. Conclusion. The incidence of breast cancer may depend on a large number of factors, the most significant of which is the initial condition of the breast according to sonography and mammography.
Ce que dictionnaires et plateformes en ligne (ne) nous disent (pas) du monde contemporain : le binôme langue-culture est-il encore actuel ?
Authors: Molinari Chiara
Published: February 2025

Dans cet article, nous nous proposons de réfléchir aux rapports entre nouvelles créations lexicales et supports
lexicographiques. Autrement dit, nous nous intéressons à la façon dont les nouvelles plateformes lexicographiques
(que ce soit des dictionnaires en ligne, des dictionnaires collaboratifs ou d’autres typologies d’outils
lexicographiques) intègrent et/ou reproduisent les néologismes, ceux-ci étant normalement considérés
comme un miroir des dynamiques socioculturelles. Pour ce faire, nous allons étudier un corpus hétérogène,
composé d’articles de la presse consacrés à la langue et d’articles lexicographiques proposés par les dictionnaires
collaboratifs et bases de données. La confrontation avec une ressource lexicographique traditionnelle,
Le Petit Robert, permettra d’évaluer les apports des outils en ligne.
Tätigkeiten mit krebserzeugenden aromatischen Aminen bei nasschemischen Analysemethoden in medizinischen Laboren – Modellierung der Exposition
Authors:   Berufsgenossenschaft für Gesundheitsdienst und Wohlfahrtspflege, Köln, Anhäuser Lea , Halsen Gabriele ,   Berufsgenossenschaft für Gesundheitsdienst und Wohlfahrtspflege, Köln, Gerding Johannes ,   Berufsgenossenschaft für Gesundheitsdienst und Wohlfahrtspflege, Köln
Published: February 2025

Activities with carcinogenic aromatic amines in wet-chemical analysis methods in medical laboratories – exposure modelling
Objective: In medical laboratories, exposure to the carcinogenic aromatic amine benzidine or the benzidine-releasing azo dye Congo red was previously and still is occasionally possible when carrying out certain laboratory analyses. These amines can be the cause of urinary bladder carcinoma. To determine the inhalation and dermal exposure in wet-chemical analysis methods, activities are described and the customary exposure is modelled.
Methods: Five exemplary wet-chemical analytical methods that have contained or still contain benzidine as an analytical reagent were identified. These include the benzidine test for the detection of blood in stool or urine, the determination of peroxidase-positive leukocytes and, in pathology, Congo red staining for the detection of amyloid. Inhalation exposure was determined using a physico-chemical deterministic two-zone model under steady-state conditions and dermal exposure using a model based on a permeation equation.
Results: Based on the modelling performed, the maximum amount of benzidine inhaled over a working life of 40 years is 2.77 ng for leukocyte detection (daily exposure of 1 h), otherwise the amount is in the picogram or femtogram range. The amount of benzidine ingested dermally for the benzidine test (daily exposure of 1 h) is a maximum of 8.97 mg for 10 working years and 71.72 mg for leukocyte detection (daily exposure of 1 h) and 84.76 μg for Congo red staining (annual exposure of six samples) for 40 working years in each case.
Conclusions: The description and the exposure calculations for the wet-chemical analysis methods with possible exposure to the aromatic amine benzidine directly or through the azo dye Congo red in medical laboratories or in pathology can be used for the retrospective determination of exposure in the context of BK 1301.
Keywords: aromatic amines – benzidine – Congo red – exposure – modelling
Resilience in Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: De Witt Patricia , Monareng Luther , Abraham Aaishah , Koor Safiyya , Saber Rizwana
Published: February 2025

At the University of the Witwatersrand, occupational therapy undergraduate students perceived their programme to be more stressful than similar health science education programmes, resulting in students experiencing mental health issues.
Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the level of resilience and stress, and health behaviours of students registered in the undergraduate Occupational Therapy programme.
A descriptive quantitative cross-sectional on-line survey design was used, replicating an American study of nursing students by Ahern. Permission was obtained from Ahern to use the same battery of data collection tools: demographic questionnaire, the resiliency scale; the perceived stress visual analogue scale and the health behaviours questionnaire. Once ethical clearance was obtained, the data collection battery plus an information sheet was mailed electronically to 205 students.
The three questionnaires were scored as prescribed and all other data were analysed descriptively. The Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA was used to test the significant difference between the variables and Spearman's rank order correlation coefficient to determine associations between the questionnaires as well as the subtests.
One hundred and seventeen questionnaires were analysed. Results indicated high stress levels within this cohort, with the major stressor being academic. Most students reported a medium level of resilience and the health behaviour questionnaire revealed a low risk. There was no significant difference between the different years and the only variables found to have a significant association was stress over the year increasing risk-taking behaviours.
It was concluded that all students could benefit from some resilience training. Those who lived away from home and had poor social support were the most vulnerable.
Key Words:Resilience, Stress, Occupational therapy students.
Upper limb mobility and personal management of stroke in patients attending occupational therapy at a tertiary hospital in Gauteng
Authors: Msengana Zukiswa , De Witt Patrica , Owen Antonette , Franzsen Denise
Published: February 2025

Introduction: This study described the outcomes for upper limb motor function after stroke and personal management of patientsattending occupational therapy at a tertiary hospital in Gauteng, up to two months' post-discharge.Methodology: A quantitative, descriptive correlation design used assessments of upper limb motor function and independence inpersonal management to collect the data. Forty-five participants received routine rehabilitation including occupational therapy at thehospital. The same measurements were administered on discharge and during out-patient follow up at one and two months.Results: Results indicated that of 45 participants only 33 were available for reassessment at discharge. These participants hadsignificant improvement in upper limb motor function and personal management. At discharge 48% of participants had >80% recoveryof upper limb function and 59% had achieved independence or modified independence in personal management. The correlation betweenupper limb function and 73% personal management at discharge was strong, indicating an association between return of upper limbfunction and independence in personal management. By two months post discharge the correlation between the variables was low, aswhile only 20% of the 15 participants who returned for therapy at month 2 were dependent for personal management and over 50%presented with no or poor upper limb function.Discussion and Conclusion: Rehabilitation including occupational therapy intervention contributed to participant's improvedperformance in personal management tasks, even when upper limb motor function recovery was suboptimal. The intervention forpersonal management and compensatory techniques taught to participants resulted in independent or modified independence twomonths after discharge.Key words: stroke; upper limb motor recovery; personal management
Occupational therapy services and perception of integration of these at primary healthcare level in South Africa
Authors: Jejelaye Anthony , Maseko Lebogang , Franzsen Denise
Published: February 2025

Background: Literature indicates that access to rehabilitation services in South Africa is limited. Recent policy documents by the National Department of Health related to disability and rehabilitation propose the integration of occupational therapy services in primary healthcare (PHC). However, the implementation strategies concerning integration are not clear as there is inadequate evidence locally on the occupational therapy service provision in PHC even though there is growing evidence internationally.Purpose: This study sought to determine the services provided by occupational therapists in PHC and to explore the perceptions of the occupational therapists on the integration of occupational therapy services within the PHC reengineering streams of the National Insurance (NHI).Method: A two-phase explanatory sequential mixed method strategy was utilised in this study. A quantitative survey was sent to members of the occupational therapy professional association and an organisation of professionals providing rehabilitation services in rural communities. Qualitative data were then collected using semi-structured interviews with five therapists who completed the survey.Findings: Findings from this study showed there is increasing alignment of occupational therapy services in PHC with the community-based rehabilitation (CBR), the Social Model, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) and the Medical Model using client self-management and case-management intervention approaches. The majority of occupational therapists are currently based in district hospitals (42%), community health centres (16%), community organisations (8%), and clinics (8%).Those working in the community indicated they work in a multidisciplinary team (MDT). They also use PHC service delivery models to manage people with disabilities (PWDs). Occupational therapists in PHC have a strong perception of their relevance in the PHC reengineering streams, despite the numerous barriers and few facilitators to the integration of occupational therapy services in the PHC reengineering streams of the NHI.Conclusion: The perception of the study participants is that occupational therapy service integration in the PHC reengineeringstreams will lead to improved healthcare. However, they are also of the opinion that integration will not happen without advocacy from occupational therapists or occupational therapy being adequately supported in PHC.
Key words: Occupational therapy, primary health care re-engineering, integration, National Health Insurance, universal health coverage.
The Clinical Impact of the Film Array (Biofire) Respiratory Panel Utilization on the Outcomes of Pediatric Patients with Acute Viral Respiratory Infections in Two Private Tertiary Hospitals in Cebu
Authors: Shajed Julasiri , Jonathan Lim , Karen Joy Kimseng
Published: February 2025

Background: Acute Respiratory tract Infections (ARI) are the most prevalent illness in people of all ages, and they are a leading cause of hospitalization and death. Molecular testing methods have significantly expanded the ability to diagnose respiratory infections. Rapid viral testing aims to prompt the diagnosis of viral infections that could lead to faster hospital discharge, and lower healthcare resource use, and clinicians are guided on the judicious use of antibiotics, as well as greater isolation precautions. The objective of this study was to determine the clinical impact of the Film Array (Biofire) Respiratory Panel utilization on the outcomes of pediatric patients with acute viral respiratory infection.
Methodology: This is a cross-sectional analytic study, conducted in two private tertiary hospitals. The study population includes admitted patients aged 1-18 years old with an acute respiratory infection and then divided into two groups: exposure group (with Biofire taken) and non-exposure group (without Biofire taken). Retrospective chart review was done on the admitted patients and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: A total of 220 samples were included. The majority of patients in both groups were female, aged 1-5 years old, lived in an urban locality, and with no influenza vaccination. The most common virus detected was hRV/hEV(n = 29%), while the most common codetection virus was hRV/hEV with influenza B (n = 23.5%). For those who underwent the test, patients were frequently admitted in the year 2021 (n = 90%) and the month of July (n = 28.2%). Utilization of the respiratory panel was associated with significant changes in medical management including decreased antibiotic usage (p = 0.001) and shorter length of hospital stay (p = 0.029), compared to those patients who didn’t undergo the test.
Conclusion: The Film Array (Biofire) respiratory panel is useful in assisting clinical judgment regarding the usage of antibiotics as well as the length of hospitalization among children affected by acute respiratory infections.
Quantitative Controls for Environmental and Agricultural Surveillance of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Producing Escherichia coli v1
Authors: M. Durso Lisa , C. Condon Justine , E. Wells James , G Frye Jonathan , Sharma Manan , M. Ibekwe Abasiofiok
Published: February 2025

The importance of standardized control strains for environmental antibiotic resistance (AR) efforts cannot be underestimated. Control strains are useful in standardizing the quality of testing across laboratories and are essential for quality control of experimental procedures and reagents. This protocol introduces two new agriculturally sourced Escherichia coli strains for use as environmental AR control strains in method development, surveillance, and research efforts. Both strains are fully characterized, and whole-sequenced, and are available through multiple public sources. ARS-C101 is a control strain that is extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) negative and tetracycline susceptible. ARS-C301 is a control strain that is ESBL positive, and tetracycline resistant. They are both compatible with the World Health Organization efforts: "WHO integrated global surveillance on ESBL-producing E. coli using a “One Health” approach: implementation and opportunities”(aka "Tricycle”). The current protocol describes how to make quantitative controls of ARS-C101 and ARS-C301 control strains using a modification of the WHO Tricycle protocol.
Stereotaxic Surgery for Viral Injection and Mild 6-OHDA Lesion Model in Mice v1
Authors: Graziano Marta
Published: February 2025

This protocol outlines the procedure for performing stereotaxic surgery for viral or drug injections and the establishment of a mild 6-OHDA lesion model in mice. The protocol ensures accurate targeting and minimal discomfort, while also detailing postoperative care and monitoring for effective recovery.
Neonatal hypoglycemia (Draft of clinical guidelines)
Authors: Ivanov Dmitry O. , Petrenko Yuriy V. , Tyrtova Ludmila V. , Ditkovskaya Liliya V. , Chumakova Galina N. , Olenev Aleksei S. , Parshina Natalia V. , Solodkova Irina V. , Maryina Olga I.
Published: February 2025

Neonatal hypoglycemia is one of the most common metabolic disorders in newborns, characterized by a high risk of developing neurological complications, including long-term ones, and, as a consequence, leading to a decrease in the quality of life of patients. As a rule, neonatal hypoglycemia is transient and is caused by the physiological characteristics of the infant’s body. The mechanism of development of transient neonatal hypoglycemia is based on transient hyperinsulinism and deficiency of alternative glucose sources in the neonatal period. In some cases, hypoglycemia can be caused by congenital metabolic disorders, enzymopathies and endocrine diseases. The frequency of neonatal hypoglycemia varies depending on the diagnostic threshold, the screening protocol used, the method of measuring blood glucose levels, and the population studied. According to the latest meta-analyses and systematic reviews, neonatal hypoglycemia is observed in 5–15% of healthy newborns and in 50% of children from the risk group. Despite the large number of clinical protocols for the management of patients with neonatal hypoglycemia, there is no single algorithm. This draft clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal hypoglycemia in children were prepared by a group of authors, leading domestic specialists in the field of neonatology, pediatrics and pediatric endocrinology. The information on the epidemiology, modern classification of neonatal hypoglycemia, methods of their diagnosis, screening and treatment, based on the principles of evidence-based medicine, is presented.
Anterior diffuse scleritis, map-like corneal ulcer, and hypopyon anterior uveitis associated with herpes zoster
Authors: Kovaleva Lyudmila A. , Balatskaya Natalya V. , Krichevskaya Galina I. , Baisangurova Albina A.
Published: February 2025

AIM: To analyze etiopathogenesis, clinical features, and a treatment algorithm for acute anterior diffuse scleritis, map-like corneal ulcer, and hypopyon anterior uveitis in order to increase medical awareness of herpes zoster in children.
RESULTS: Long-term exposure to rapid temperature changes contributed to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation in a child leading to herpes zoster rarely occurring in children, onset of anterior diffuse scleritis and hypopyon anterior uveitis. Corticosteroid therapy without causal treatment led to herpes virus reactivation in the patient’s cornea which contributed to herpes corneal ulcer.
CONCLUSION: Etiopathogenesis features were analyzed, characteristic clinical symptoms of anterior diffuse scleritis, herpes corneal ulcer, and hypopyon anterior uveitis caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation were described. Reactivation led to herpes zoster with skin eruption and herpes zoster ophthalmicus, such as injury of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve without extraocular (skin) symptoms of herpes infection. The VZV etiological role was established based on high titers of anti-VZV IgG antibodies, the presence of anti-VZV-gE IgG antibodies (markers of active viral replication), and the efficacy of anti-herpes therapy. The described clinical symptoms of combined ophthalmic pathology contribute to the early diagnosis of ocular herpes for timely antiviral herpes therapy to prevent chronic disease and complications and to preserve and/or recover visual acuity.
Investigation of the infection route of HIV-associated cytomegalovirus retinitis
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, Cai Jie , Tang Dong-Yong ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, Zuo Hui-Yi ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, Liang Hao ,   Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
Published: February 2025

AIM: To investigate the etiology of ocular pathogens and to establish the various pathogens present in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients with cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR).
METHODS: A total of 17 HIV-infected patients with concomitant eye disorders were enrolled. Patients were divided into CMVR group (10 patients, 18 eyes) and non-CMVR group (7 patients, 9 eyes) based on clinical manifestations and the presence of cytomegalovirus (CMV)-DNA in ocular specimens. The viral load of CMV was assessed using polymerase chain reaction in aqueous humor, vitreous fluid, and peripheral blood samples of patients in the CMVR group. Additionally, peripheral blood CD4+ T cell counts were measured in both groups.
RESULTS: In the CMVR group, the CMV-DNA load in the vitreous and aqueous humor samples was substantially higher than in the peripheral blood samples (P<0.01). CMV-DNA load in the aqueous humor and vitreous samples of the two eyes in the CMVR group was determined to be statistically significant (10 patients, 16 eyes, P=0.018, 0.012). Peripheral blood CD4+ T cell counts in the CMVR group were adversely linked with the CMV-DNA load in both the aqueous humor and peripheral blood (P=0.005, 0.048). Compared with the non-CMVR group, the peripheral blood CD4+ T cell count in the CMVR group decreased significantly (P=0.014). The peripheral blood CD4+ T cell count exceeded 300 cells/μL in 85.71% of non-CMVR patients, whereas it was below 100 cells/μL in 90.00% of the CMVR group. The intraocular specimens of the patients who underwent CMVR testing did not include any additional infections.
CONCLUSION: In HIV-associated CMVR patients, there may exist alternative, yet unidentified, infection pathways for intraocular CMV in addition to the conventional route. The substantial difference in CMV-DNA load between the eyes of most CMVR patients suggests that CMV may originate from different sources in each eye. The proportion of peripheral blood CD4+ T cells in HIV patients is negatively correlated with the quantity of CMV viruses in their eyes. The peripheral blood count of <100 cells/µL indicates a considerable increase in the risk of concurrent CMVR. Multi-ocular pathogen presentations are uncommon in HIV individuals with CMVR.
Potential immune involvement in cataract: from mechanisms to future scope of therapies
Authors:   Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China, Chen Lu , Fu Qiu-Li ,   Eye Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases, Zhejiang Provincial Engineering Institute on Eye Diseases, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China
Published: February 2025

The immune system is involved in many age-related pathological changes, also plays an important role in tissue regeneration after injury. But no immune involvement has been discussed regarding cataract since it is presumed that lens has no source of immune cells as an avascular zone. Latest research has challenged the longstanding view of the lens as an immune-privileged tissue, revealing the presence of resident immune cells and active immune responses within the lens. Thus, we summarized the immune involvement in maintaining lens homeostasis, which may be a deleterious role in the induction of lens opacification if inappropriately activated. Furthermore, bioengineer-based immunomodulatory therapies to fine-tune the micro immune environment within lens may be future strategies for in situ lens regeneration, as a novel treatment for cataract.
Using MULTISIM software as a replacement or supplement for physical labs
Authors: Hagigat Cyrus
Published: February 2025

MULTISIM is a computer simulation software that among other things simulates the performance of electric circuits. The article presented here demonstrates using MULTISIM as an educational tool to enhance student learning process by discussing the use of MULTISIM for teaching basic electrical circuits consisting of analysis of Series-Parallel Circuits, Superposition Theory, Thevenin Theory and Norton Theory. The traditional textbooks only demonstrate the final result of a circuit analysis using MULTISIM. However, the article presented here discusses using the software as an aid to check the intermediate steps of hand calculation techniques that must be used if no computer software were being used. By using the mixed approach of using a hand calculation technique and MULTISIM, the students have the opportunity to verify the accuracy of every step of the process which will improve their learning and will allow them to find and correct their own errors. The added student self-reliance is especially useful in a Distance Learning course.
Industrial Park as a Modern Form of Production Organization
Authors: Zaytseva А. I.
Published: February 2025

Aim. Identify the essence and typical forms of industrial park as a modern form of production organization, examine the prerequisites, experience and prospects of creating industrial parks in the Kemerovo region − Kuzbass.Methodology. Theoretical methods, including analysis and generalization of materials of regulatory and methodological documents, scientific publications, as well as information from official websites of companies on the subject of research are used. The location of industrial parks in the Kemerovo region – Kuzbass is clearly reflected by using the cartographic method.Results. The analysis of regulatory documents and scientific publications allowed us to formulate industrial park features as well as the types and advantages of industrial parks creation. The study found that there is a necessary infrastructure to create parks of different types in the Kemerovo region – Kuzbass. These measures will allow to diversify the economy and solve the problem of mono-dependence, which is urgent for the region.Research implications. The study allows us to analyze and summarize the features, types and advantages of creating industrial parks as a modern form of production organization, which is especially relevant for the typical industrial region, which includes the Kemerovo region − Kuzbass.
Chemical elements in the «soil – plants» system of floodplain landscapes in the city of Krasnoyarsk
Authors: Orban E.  S. , Sharafutdinov R.  A.
Published: February 2025

Aim. Identification of the distribution of chemical elements in the system «soil–plants» floodplain landscapes of the large industrial city of Krasnoyarsk.

Procedure and methods. In soil and plant samples by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectral analysis, the total content of chemical elements was determined. For the results obtained the accumulation coefficient showing the nature of the internal redistribution of chemical elements in the system «soil–plant» was calculated, a series of biological accumulation for 12 sites located within the low floodplain of the Yenisei River in Krasnoyarsk was compiled.

Results. A ecological-geochemical analysis of the floodplain landscapes of the city of Krasnoyarsk was carried out. The basic regularities of the distribution of chemical elements in vegetation and soil cover are determined, the contribution of exogenous elements is estimated. Hyperaccumulation of Hg, Mn, Mo, S, Se, Zn by representatives of the genus Salix was revealed. It is noted that S makes the most significant contribution to the pollution of soils and vegetation of floodplain landscapes.

Research implications. Significance of the study lies in identifying the quantitative ratio of chemical elements determining the level of technogenic load and stability of ecosystems functioning. The findings reflect the importance of preservation and role of floodplain landscapes in urban environment. The information obtained is also valuable for making possible management decisions when planning economic activities within the floodplain landscapes of an urbanized territory.
Scientific and methodological aspects of teaching courses on geoecological problems of plains and mountains areas in the permafrost zone
Authors: Zotova L. I. , Vikulina M. A.
Published: February 2025

Aim. To reveal scientific and methodological techniques for creating and teaching geoecological disciplines in bachelor's and master's programs based on long-term methodological developments of Cryolithology and Glaciology Department of the Faculty of Geography of Lomonosov Moscow State University.

Methodology. The author's methodology for studying, assessing and mapping the permafrostecological state of flat and mountainous permafrost areas is presented, based on landscape methods: landscape-indicative and landscape-structural. The advantages and disadvantages of the method of point expert assessments and one of the techniques for their improvement are shown. The conceptual provisions of the stability of cryogenic and high-mountain geosystems to mechanical disturbances of the surface are presented. The main assessment factors of avalanche danger and risk for recreational facilities in the mountains are listed.

Results. The concepts of "geoecology of the cryolithozone", "stability of northern geosystems", "crisis geoecological situation" necessary for the geosystem approach to geoecological problems are formulated. The factors of cryogenic processes activation at different mapping scales and hazard & risk factors for high mountain areas are analyzed. A graphic-analytical method for comparing factor scores against the background of an interval scale in “quality centers” is shown. Examples of original practical tasks are demonstrated. The procedure for the integrated assessment of the lithocryogenic stability factors of landscapes to the manifestation of undesirable cryogenic processes is disclosed along with the factors of their bioresource value in order to obtain quantitative indices for ranking landscapes according to the degree of vulnerability to development. A number of significant permafrost maps compiled on a landscape basis are listed.  Examples of original practical tasks are demonstrated.

Research implications. The multifactor integral assessment methodology is in demand in engineering-geographical research, particularly during pre-project stages of land development, ensuring the reliable operation of engineering structures in the cryolithozone while maximizing environmental preservation. The methodological techniques are of practical interest for training specialists in natural sciences on environmental studies of the cryolithozone and mountainous regions.
Contemporary changes in regional specialisation of farming in PRC (1990–2018)
Authors: Naumov A. S. , Chubarov I. G. , Dvoretskiy V. A.
Published: February 2025

Aim. Identifying the changes and factors in the allocation of China's major farming industries by analyzing statistical data for PRC provinces from 1990 to 2018.

Methodology. The analysis of data on the dynamics of the territorial concentration of agriculture is based on the calculation of the index of localization of sown areas of crops by provinces, autonomous regions and cities of central subordination. The dynamics of the sown area of China's main agricultural crops in 1990-2018 was analyzed: rice, wheat, corn, soybeans, rapeseed, peanuts, sunflower, sugar cane, sugar beet, tobacco and tea, as well as aggregated data on root and tubers, other vegetable and fruit crops.

Results. The analysis showed that the regions in the north and south-east of China differ in narrower specialization. In the whole country, the production of fruits, vegetables, cereals and peanuts was characterized by the lowest level of territorial concentration.

Research implications. The results of the study allow us to conclude that China is increasingly integrating into the global system of agricultural areas, while these changes in the location of the main branches of agriculture significantly affect the transformation of the entire global system. Changes in the specialization of PRC farming at the national and regional levels can in positive and negative ways effect China’s import of Russian agricultural products.
Tourism development of the Mediterranean city of Mersin (Turkey): local’s opinion
Authors: Kondrateva S. V.
Published: February 2025

Aim. This study seeks to identify both the opportunities and challenges for tourism development in the Mediterranean city of Mersin based on opinion of local residents.1

Methodology. The study is based on data of two sociological surveys, various literature sources, and the author’s own observations. The opinion of local residents is evaluated through two sociological surveys conducted among Turkish citizens and the Russian-speaking residents of the city of Mersin from December 18, 2022, to February 5, 2023, and from April 4, 2023, to July 16, 2023. The empirical data consists of 245 anonymous questionnaires: 143 were completed by Turkish citizens in Turkish, and 102 by Russian-speaking people in Russian.

Results. The findings indicate a generally positive view among locals regarding the prospects for tourism development in Mersin. Key potential benefits identified from tourism development include the creation of new jobs for locals (53.5% of respondents), enhancement of the city of Mersin's image (46.5%), and improvement of services available to both tourists and residents (46.5%). Despite this shared optimism, notable differences in opinions were observed between the Turkish citizens and the Russian-speaking community. The study revealed five main obstacles for tourism development in the city: infrastructural (underdeveloped tourism infrastructure), environmental (sea and beach pollution (especially with plastic); litter on the streets), economic (inflation; underinvestment of tourism; lack of a tourism development strategy), socio-cultural (language barrier, both Russian and English) aspects as well as legal challenges (changes in legislation, e.g., in requirements for getting a temporary residence permit for foreign citizens).

Research implications. The outcomes of this study offer valuable insights into the preferences of the Russian-speaking tourists and the factors impeding tourism growth in Mersin. These findings may assist in boosting both the inbound tourist flow and the local tourism market. Additionally, the results may be applicable to other tourist destinations aiming to enhance or maintain tourist traffic from Russian-speaking countries.
Influence of Foliar Spray of Nutrients and PGR on Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Blackgram under Partial Shade in Coconut Garden
Authors: Pooja A.P. , Ameena M. , Arunjith P.
Published: February 2025

Background: Blackgram is one of the important pulse crop which suits well in intercropping system like coconut garden. As the yield of pulses in general is low, it is necessary to increase the yield using effective nutrient management strategies. Hence an attempt was made to study the influence of foliar spray of nutrients and plant growth regulators on productivity of blackgram intercropped in coconut garden. Methods: An investigation was conducted at College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala, India during Rabi 2020 and summer 2020-21 to understand the effect of foliar nutrition on yield and nutrient uptake of Blackgram under partial shade in coconut garden. The experiment was laid out in split plot design, replicated four times with five varieties (v1 - Sumanjana, v2 - D B G V 5, v3 - V B N 5, v4 - V B N 6, v5 - C O 6) selected as the main plot treatments and six foliar sprays of nutrients and plant growth regulators as subplot treatments (f1: 19:19:19 (1%) at 45 and 60 DAS, f2: sulphate of potash SOP (0.5%) at 45 DAS and 15 days later, f3: NAA 40 mg L-1 and salicylic acid 100 mg L-1 at pre-flowering (30-45 DAS) and 15 days later, f4: f3 + f1, f5: f3 + f2 and f6: Control - KAU POP). Result: The study identified Sumanjana and DBGV 5 as shade adaptive varieties with foliar spray of 19:19:19 (1%) at 45 and 60 DAS + foliar spray of NAA 40 mg L-1 and SA 100 mg L-1 at pre-flowering (35 DAS) and 15 days later with 21.84 per cent and 21.76 per cent yield increase respectively over existing package of practices recommendations with higher nutrient uptake and improved soil nutrient status.
Quantification of Green Fodder Yield Losses Due to Diseases and Insect-pests Infecting Cowpea in North-Eastern and North-Western Regions of India
Authors: Atri Ashlesha , Bhardwaj N.R. , Banyal D.K. , Landge Sandip , Dhal Arabinda , Cheema Harpreet K. , Singh Devinder Pal
Published: February 2025

Background: Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] is a leguminous crop cultivated for pulse, feed and fodder in tropical and sub-tropical regions worldwide. Although the cowpea is adapted to most of the regions in India, the crop is threatened by diseases like root rot, cowpea yellow mosaic virus, leaf spot and anthracnose and pests such as aphids and defoliators. Methods: In this study, green fodder yield losses due to diseases and pests were quantified in fodder cowpea at five locations for three cropping seasons 2019-2021. There were two treatments one was protected with fungicides/biocontrol agents/biopesticides and another was unprotected. The incidence of diseases and pests was recorded in both treatments. Result: The mean root rot incidence was 1.39 to 50.24 per cent at three locations, the severity of cowpea yellow mosaic virus ranged between 0.69 to 14.49% and the disease severity of foliar diseases was 0.75 to 40.40 per cent. Whereas aphid population was in the range of 3.93 to 30.26 aphids per twig and infestation on cowpea by defoliators was observed in the range of 1.31 to 45.64 per cent. The average green fodder yield losses were ranged between 11.06 to 46.21 percent with highest losses were recorded at Palampur location and lowest were estimated at Ludhiana location. The crop loss models were also prepared for disease and pest damage to assess the relationship between disease severity, pest infestation and green fodder yield of cowpea. The correlation was found negative/positive and highly significant at p=0.01 and p=0.05 between disease severity, pest damage values and green fodder yield losses at all five test locations. Regarding the management of diseases and pests, the focus should be on the timely application of management measures.