bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bloodstream infections at a tertiary hospital in the Gambia - a one-year retrospective study
Authors: Rahden Paul , Barrow Ebrima , Bah Haddy , Bittaye Sheikh Omar , Nygren David , Badjan Abdoulie
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Antimicrobial resistance is a significant global health concern, particularly in western Sub-Saharan Africa. This study describes causes of bloodstream infections and antimicrobial resistance at a tertiary hospital in The Gambia.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included all blood cultures performed at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul, The Gambia, from September 2022 to August 2023. Blood culture positivity-rates and pathogens were described. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using disk diffusion following the Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.

Results

A total of 645 patients had blood cultures drawn during the study period with 260 (40%) positive results. Contaminants were identified in 28 cases (4%). The majority were drawn from neonatal or paediatric patients (360/645, 56%) and overall primarily in intensive care units (406/645, 63%). The median age was 3 years (interquartile range 0–31 years) and 46% were female. The most common pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus 106/260 (41%), Klebsiella spp. 41/260 (16%), other bacteria within the Enterobacterales order 33/260 (13%), Pseudomonas spp. 22/260 (8%) and Acinetobacter spp. 19/260 (7%). Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) was seen in 34/58 (59%) tested. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) were seen in 36/40 (90%) of Klebsiella spp. and in 16/28 (57%) of other bacteria within the Enterobacterales order. Acquired antibiotic resistance, beyond wild-type, was reported in 17/20 (85%) of Pseudomonas spp. and 16/19 (84%) of Acinetobacter spp.

Conclusion

Overall, blood culture positivity rates were high, indicating restrictive testing suggesting that sample collection were restricted to mainly critically ill, neonatal or paediatric patients. Nonetheless, our data suggests a high proportion of bloodstream infections due to multi-drug resistant pathogens, including MRSA and ESBL-Enterobacterales. Importantly, generalisability of findings beyond this tertiary hospital setting remains restricted. However, our findings demonstrate a need for improved diagnostic stewardship and ongoing surveillance to provide robust evidence-based data to inform antimicrobial resistance interventions.
Chitosan-covered tamponade for the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage: a registry-based cohort study assessing outcomes and risk factors for treatment failure
Authors: Leichtle Clara , Aigner Annette , Biele Carolin , Hermann Paulina , Dangli Teresa , Waldner Charlotte , Braun Thorsten , Henrich Wolfgang , Dückelmann Anna Maria
Published: February 2025

Background

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Intrauterine hemostatic devices are recommended when PPH does not respond to medical treatment. The objective of this study was to assess the factors leading to unsuccessful intrauterine therapy with a chitosan-covered tamponade (CT) for the treatment of PPH and to evaluate clinical outcomes based on real-world data.

Methods

This registry-based cohort study included all women treated with CT for PPH between January 2017 and June 2022 at a university clinic’s perinatal department. The endpoint was defined as the failure of CT, indicated by the requirement of further invasive procedures for ongoing hemorrhage after CT application. Medical records were reviewed and binary logistic regressions used to evaluate delivery mode, placenta previa, and placenta accreta spectrum as potential risk factors for CT treatment failure.

Results

The cohort consisted of 230 women, with successful CT treatment in 91.3%. The success rate for mild PPH was 100.0%, for moderate 95.5%, and for severe 84.2%. Five hysterectomies were performed in total. Placenta previa in cesarean sections was identified as the primary risk factor for CT treatment failure, increasing the odds about 7.5-fold (Odds Ratio: 7.48; 95% CI: 1.87–33.15) compared to cesarean sections without placenta previa. Furthermore, delays in CT insertion may also contribute to treatment failure.

Conclusion

CT serves as an intrauterine treatment for medically intractable PPH. Placenta previa significantly increases the risk of CT treatment failure in cesarean sections. Obstetricians should be particularly vigilant in managing patients with placenta previa and consider early use of CT or a combination of procedures.

Trial registration

This study was approved by the local Ethics Committee on 11/10/2021 (EA4/231/21).
The impact of death and caring for the dying and their families on surgeons - an AI assisted systematic scoping review
Authors: Tan Jun Rong , Ong Yun Ting , Fam Victoria Jia En , Sinnathamby Annushkha , Ravindran Nila , Ng Yaoyi , Krishna Lalit Kumar Radha
Published: February 2025

Context

Surgeons are taking central roles in caring for patients leaving them prone to the emotional turmoil and grief of patients and families and the moral, psychological and existential distress of members of the interprofessional team and trainees. This has implications on patient safety and surgeon welfare.

Objectives

A systematic scoping review was carried out to address the primary research question “what is known of the effects of caring for the dying and the impact of patient’s death on surgeons?”. It is hoped that the insights gained will better guide support and assessment of surgeons in their evolving roles.

Methods

Guided by the Systematic Evidence-based Approach (SEBA), we conducted a systematic scoping review (SSR). This review included articles published between 1st January 2000 and 2nd September 2024 on Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, ERIC databases. To enhance trustworthiness and enhance the comprehensiveness of our review the articles identified were also evaluated using ChatGPT 4o and Notebook LM. The findings of these assistive processes were compared with the independent thematic and content analysis carried out by the two research teams.

Results

In total, 4966 titles and abstracts were identified, 174 full-text articles were reviewed, and 26 full-text articles analysed. With the findings of the assistive analysis by the AI tools echoing the findings of the research teams- two key domains were identified: (1) the impact on personhood, (2) predisposing factors.

Conclusion

This AI assisted SSR in SEBA confirms that surgeons do suffer from the cumulative effects of caring for dying patients and their families and from the death of the patient and supporting the family and members of the interprofessional team and trainees. Without timely and personalized support surgeons are prone to depression, burnout, and substance abuse, and compromises to patient and family experiences, outcomes, safety and satisfaction. The need for effective longitudinal and personalized assessment tools is clear.
The influence of thermal tempering on the fracture resistance, surface microstructure, elemental surface composition, and phase analysis of four heat-pressed lithia-based glass ceramic crowns
Authors: Nasser Khaled , EL-Etreby Amr , Nabih Soha Osama
Published: February 2025

Background

This in-vitro study aimed to evaluate the impact of thermal tempering and ceramic type on the fracture resistance, surface microstructure, elemental surface composition and phase analysis of four heat-pressed glass ceramics.

Methods

A total of 84 glass-ceramic crowns were pressed and randomly allocated into four equal groups (n = 21) according to the ceramic type: Group (E): IPS e.max Press, Group (L): GC initial LiSi Press, Group (C): Celtra Press and Group (A): VITA Ambria. The crowns of each group were equally allocated into three subgroups (n = 7) regarding the subsequent thermal tempering temperature. Subgroup (T0): No tempering. Subgroup (T1): Tempering at 9% below pressing temperature. Subgroup (T2): Tempering at 5% below pressing temperature. Samples were tested for fracture resistance using a universal testing machine. A scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, and Energy Dispersive x-ray analysis were utilized to disclose the microstructural features.

Results

When there is no tempering, IPS e.max press showed a significant elevated fracture resistance (P-value = 0.002). There was an insignificant difference between other ceramics. While with tempering (T2) as well as (T1), Lisi press (L) showed a significant elevated fracture resistance. There was an insignificant difference between other ceramics (P-value = 0.004).

Conclusions

Incorporation of zirconia oxide into the lithium disilicate glass matrix did not show improvement in the fracture resistance. Thermal tempering procedure had significant effect on fracture resistance. Thermal tempering technique had no influence the elemental surface composition and phase analysis yet T2 samples showed changes in crystal size and orientation.
The influence of uterine leiomyomatosis on the onset of psoriasis: a nationwide population-based study of 2.5 million Korean females
Authors: Kim Yeong Ho , Kim Hyun Jee , Doh Jee Yun , Han Kyung Do , Lee Ji Hyun
Published: February 2025

Background

Uterine leiomyomatosis and psoriasis are prevalent conditions and shared pathophysiological factors indicate a potential association. However, a direct correlation has not been established. We investigated the relationship between uterine leiomyomatosis and the risk of new-onset psoriasis in Korean females of reproductive age.

Methods

This nationwide population-based study used data from the Korean National Health Insurance System database. Data from 2,755,790 Korean females 20–39 years of age who underwent health check-ups from 2009 to 2012 were analyzed. Monitoring began at the initial national health assessment within the time frame and continued until either the diagnosis of emerging psoriasis or until December 2018.

Results

Among 2,503,769 females included, 1.96% were diagnosed with psoriasis and 0.72% with uterine leiomyomatosis. The incidence ratio for new-onset psoriasis was higher in uterine leiomyomatosis patients (3.13 per 1,000) than in subjects without uterine leiomyomatosis (2.72 per 1,000). The hazard ratio for psoriasis occurrence was 1.18 (1.07–1.31) in uterine leiomyomatosis patients, 1.22 (1.08–1.37) in subjects who did not undergo myomectomy, and 1.12 (0.94–1.33) in patients who underwent myomectomy.

Conclusions

Uterine leiomyomatosis patients, especially those not undergoing myomectomy, showed an increased risk of psoriasis. Lifestyle modifications and surgical intervention for uterine leiomyomatosis may also be beneficial for psoriasis occurrence.
Impact of school salad bars on fruit and vegetable selection, intake, and waste in Mid-Atlantic elementary schools
Authors: Bean Melanie K. , Mazzeo Suzanne E. , de Jonge Lilian , Thornton Laura , Raynor Hollie , Mendoza Ashley , Farthing Sarah , Moore Bonnie
Published: February 2025

Background

Few studies have empirically examined the impact of school salad bars on elementary students’ fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption within the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). This natural experiment evaluated the impact of salad bars on FV selection, intake, and waste within elementary schools.

Methods

Seven school pairs, matched on Title I status and percentage of students from ethnic or racial minority backgrounds, were randomly selected. All schools served pre-portioned FV at baseline. One school within each pair received a salad bar; the other continued to serve pre-portioned FV (Control). Digital imagery plate waste methods were applied at baseline and 4–6 weeks after schools installed salad bars (post). Images were rated in the laboratory (ICCs = .94-.99) to determine FV selection, intake, and waste (servings [1 NSLP serving = ½c]). Multilevel modeling evaluated group (Salad Bar vs Control) and time (baseline vs post) differences and group-by-time interactions. Differences in outcomes by Title I status were also examined.

Results

Across schools, mean NSLP participation was 54%. N = 6,623 trays were included (n = 3,273 Salad Bar; n = 3,350 Control). Students in Salad Bar schools selected (+ .44c) and consumed (+ .36c) more FV at post, compared to baseline. Control students decreased FV selection (-.05c) with no change in intake from baseline to post. Group, time, and group-by-time interactions were significant (ps < .0001). When examined separately, results suggest that these effects are driven by fruit. Salad Bar students increased fruit selection (+ .45c), intake (+ .36c), and waste (+ .09c) from baseline to post; no significant changes were observed in Controls. There was no significant change in vegetable selection, intake or waste for either group. Findings did not differ based on Title I status.

Conclusions

Salad bars were effective in increasing elementary school students’ fruit selection and intake, yet did not increase vegetable selection or intake. Additional efforts are needed to increase vegetable intake and minimize fruit waste from salad bars. Consistent findings across schools, regardless of Title I status, suggest potential for salad bars to yield increased fruit intake across socioeconomic groups. Findings can inform policies designed to increase FV intake within the NSLP.

Trial registration

This investigation reports results of a systematic evaluation of school salad bars and does not meet criteria for a clinical trial, yet was retrospectively registered (10/28/22) in clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05605483) as an observational study.
NIR-activated catechol-functionalized nanodiamond nanofibers for accelerating on-demand MRSA and E. coli biofilm eradication
Authors: Park Hyeonseo , Patil Tejal V. , Lee Jieun , Kim Hojin , Cho Seong-Jun , Lim Ki-Taek
Published: February 2025

The rise of antibiotic resistance has made bacterial infections a persistent global health issue. In particular, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) secreted by bacteria limit the effectiveness of conventional antibiotics, making biofilm removal challenging. To address this, we created ND@PDA nanoparticles by coating the surface of nanodiamonds (ND) with polydopamine (PDA). These nanoparticles were then integrated into polyvinyl alcohol to fabricate PVA/ND@PDA nanofiber scaffolds, resulting in an innovative platform with enhanced photothermal, antibacterial and antibiofilm properties. Upon exposure to near-infrared (NIR) light, the scaffolds exhibited a significant photothermal activity, oxidative stress and effectively damaging key bacterial components, such as biofilm, bacterial membranes, and proteins. Additionally, the catechol groups in PDA provided strong cell adhesion and high biocompatibility on the nanofiber surface. Our research proposes a platform that not only effectively addresses antibiotic-resistant infections but also contributes to advancements in wound healing therapies by enabling controlled antibacterial action with minimal toxicity.
First detection and molecular characterization of Jingmen tick virus with a high occurrence in Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus collected from livestock in Cameroon (2024)
Authors: Kiwan Paloma , Lopez Eva , Gasparine Morena , Piorkowski Geraldine , Colmant Agathe , Paguem Achille , Mvodo Stephanie , Thirion Laurence , de Lamballerie Xavier , Charrel Remi , Falchi Alessandra
Published: February 2025

Background

Jingmen tick virus (JMTV) is a novel tick-borne virus detected for the first time in Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus in China. To date, there is no information regarding the circulation of JMTV in ticks collected from livestock in Cameroon. As part of the surveillance for arboviral circulation, this study aimed to assess the presence of JMTV in ticks collected from livestock (cattle and sheep) in an area of the Akonolinga health district, Center Region, Cameroon.

Methods

A cross sectional study was carried out during the dry season between 5 and 14 March 2024. Ticks were collected from cattle and sheep in six sampling sites in an area approximately 30 km long and 18 km wide along the Nyong River, in central Cameroon. Ticks were identified morphologically and molecularly. Total RNA/DNA was extracted from tick pools and screened for JMTV RNA using a segment 2 RT-qPCR system. Positive JMTV pools were sequenced for partial JMTV-Segment 1 and full genome analyses.

Results

A total of 622 ticks, organized into 251 pools were collected from 155 cattle and nine sheep. They consisted of five species covering three genera: R. (B.) microplus (472; 75.9%), Amblyomma variegatum (118; 19.0%), Hyalomma truncatum (13; 2.1%), Hyalomma rufipes (2; 0.3%), and other Rhipicephalus spp. (17; 2.7%). The quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) screening of 251 tick pools yielded 61 JMTV-positive pools, of which 58 corresponded to R. (B.) microplus. Multiple sequence analysis revealed that JMTV from the Akonolinga area shared > 95% identity with strains from Guinea, and that these strains clustered phylogenetically together.

Conclusions

We provide molecular evidence of the presence of JMTV in R. (B.) microplus and A. variegatum collected from cattle and sheep from an area not yet recognized as endemic for this virus, confirming its wide geographical distribution.

Graphical Abstract
Enhancing the quality of low-light images via the coefficient bounds derived for a subclass of Sakaguchi-type function
Authors: Sundari K. Sivagami , Keerthi B. Srutha
Published: February 2025

This paper introduces a new approach for enhancing low-light images by utilizing coefficient bounds from a specific subclass of analytic functions, a concept rooted in geometric function theory. Our method is designed to adapt dynamically to different lighting conditions, ensuring effective image enhancement in both uniformly and non-uniformly illuminated environments. Specifically, we apply a convolution process for images that are evenly illuminated, while a power-law transformation is employed when illumination is non-uniform. This dual-method strategy allows us to overcome common challenges such as over-enhancement and under-enhancement, which are frequently encountered in traditional approaches. By adjusting to varying lighting conditions, our approach guarantees superior image quality across a range of scenarios. Through extensive experiments and rigorous comparisons using performance metrics, we demonstrate that our method consistently outperforms existing techniques, yielding significant improvements in both image clarity and contrast. These results confirm the effectiveness and adaptability of our approach in enhancing low-light images.
Linearity of natural versus laboratory-imparted remanence demagnetization diagram and reliability of relative paleointensity estimation
Authors: Yamazaki Toshitsugu , Li Jiaxi
Published: February 2025

Information on geomagnetic field intensity in the past is essential for understanding the behavior and mechanism of the geodynamo. A fundamental unresolved problem of relative paleointensity (RPI) estimations from marine sediments is that changes in the constituents of magnetic mineral assemblages may influence RPI estimations, called lithological contamination. A negative correlation between RPI and the ratio of anhysteretic remanent magnetization (ARM) susceptibility to saturation isothermal remanent magnetization (k
ARM/SIRM), which is a proxy for the proportion of magnetofossils to detrital magnetic minerals, was previously reported from deep-sea sediments. This could be caused by lower RPI recording efficiency of the magnetofossil component than the detrital component. To elaborate further this issue, we have conducted a paleo- and rock magnetic study of a sediment core taken from the central north Pacific. RPI estimated from a slope in a diagram plotting a pair of natural remanent magnetization (NRM) and ARM at each alternating-field demagnetization step (NRM-ARM demagnetization diagram) has a negative correlation with k
ARM/SIRM. Principal component analysis of first-order reversal curve diagrams indicates a downcore increase of the magnetofossil proportion with increased k
ARM/SIRM. These results reinforce the lower RPI recording efficiency of magnetofossils. In this core, the magnetic coercivity ranges of the magnetofossil and detrital components overlap, which produces a linear NRM-ARM demagnetization diagram. This hinders a possibility of obtaining uncontaminated RPI from a coercivity window representing the magnetofossils or detrital magnetic components, which was tried by some previous studies. A linear NRM-ARM demagnetization diagram, which was sometimes used as a criterion of reliable RPI estimations, does not necessarily mean the absence of lithological contamination to the RPI. In sediments with changing proportion of magnetofossils, normalization with IRM may work better than ARM.

Graphical Abstract
Outcomes of COVID-19 in the Omicron-predominant wave: large-scale real-world data analysis with a comparison to influenza
Authors: Miyashita Koichi , Hozumi Hironao , Furuhashi Kazuki , Nakatani Eiji , Inoue Yusuke , Yasui Hideki , Suzuki Yuzo , Karayama Masato , Enomoto Noriyuki , Fujisawa Tomoyuki , Inui Naoki , Ojima Toshiyuki , Suda Takafumi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Studies on COVID-19 mortality during the Omicron-predominant wave have focused primarily on the inpatient/emergency room setting, and real-world data including both inpatients and outpatients are lacking.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 (n = 27,440,148) or influenza (n = 8,179,641) from January 2020 to April 2023 were identified using nationwide claims data in Japan. Patients with COVID-19 in the Omicron-predominant wave were compared with their counterparts in earlier waves, and a subset of the former group (May 2022–April 2023) was compared with patients with influenza as controls.

Results

The mortality rates (average number of deaths/cases per week) of COVID-19 decreased over time, being 2.7% (169/6312), 2.1% (397/18,754), 0.7% (195/28,273), and 0.4% (1613/378,848) in the wild-type–, Alpha-, Delta-, and Omicron-predominant waves, respectively. However, the number of deaths increased substantially in the Omicron-predominant wave, especially among the elderly (e.g., in the Delta- and Omicron-predominant waves, the average numbers of deaths/cases per week were < 1/5527 (< 0.01%) and 4/105,763 (< 0.01%) respectively, in patients aged 0–19, versus 101/925 (10.9%) and 1212/20,771 (5.8%), respectively, in patients aged ≥ 80). The mortality rate was lower for patients with COVID-19 than in those with influenza among those aged ≤ 39 years but higher among those aged ≥ 40 years.

Conclusions

In the Omicron-predominant wave, the mortality rate of COVID-19 decreased, but the number of patients increased, leading to a substantial increase in the number of deaths, especially among the elderly. The mortality rate of COVID-19 was higher than that of influenza in the elderly but not in the young, highlighting the need for age-specific interventions.
Numerical simulation of fluid–structure interaction for solid rocket engine nozzle ablation
Authors: Wang Donghui , Cao Dehua , Zhou Zhitan , Liang Ranhui
Published: February 2025

When a solid rocket engine is ignited, the throat lining of the nozzle is prone to chemical ablation owing to high-temperature gas erosion, resulting in thrust loss. In this paper, a coupled fluid–solid model for thermochemical ablation on the nozzle wall is established based on the multi-component Navier–Stokes equations, SST k-ω turbulence model, finite-rate chemical reaction model on the nozzle wall, variable transport properties of the nozzle material, and the heat conduction equation. Compared with the experimental data, the maximum error of the calculated ablation rate was 4.37%, validating the effectiveness of the model. Subsequently, the effects of different combustion chamber components, pressures, and temperatures on the ablation rate of the carbon–carbon (C/C) throat lining were studied. The results indicate that the temperature at the nozzle throat was the highest, resulting in the maximum ablation rate. As the Al mass fraction at the nozzle inlet increased, the thermochemical ablation rate of the nozzle decreased with a lower oxidizer mass fraction. The inlet pressure and temperature of the nozzle were positively correlated with the ablation rate, with the temperature having a more significant impact than the pressure. These findings provide theoretical guidance for the thermal protection design of rocket engine nozzles.
Sarcoidosis: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Xu Danfeng , Tao Xiaohua , Fan Yibin , Teng Yan
Published: February 2025

Sarcoidosis, a multisystemic granulomatous disease with unknown etiology, is characterized by formation of noncaseating granulomas, which can affect all organs. Recent studies have made outstanding achievement in understanding the pathology, etiology, genetics, and immune dysregulation involved in granuloma formation of sarcoidosis. Antigen stimulation in genetically predisposed individuals enhances the phagocytic activity of antigen-presenting cells, including macrophages and dendritic cells. CD4 + T cells initiate dysregulated immune responses and secrete significant quantities of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-2 and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), which play a crucial role in modulating the aggregation and fusion of macrophages to form granulomas. The current therapeutic strategies focus on blocking the formation and spread of granulomas to protect organ function and alleviate symptoms. The efficacy of traditional treatments, such as glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants, has been confirmed in the management of sarcoidosis. Promising therapeutic agents encompass inhibitors of cytokines, like those targeting tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, as well as inhibitors of signaling pathways, such as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which exhibit favorable prospects for application. Although there has been progress in the identification of biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, activity and severity of sarcoidosis, specific and sensitive biomarkers have yet to be identified. This review outlines recent advancements in the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for the sarcoidosis.
Prenatal Care, Son Preference, and the Sex Ratio at Birth
Authors: Echavarri Rebeca , Beltrán Tapia Francisco
Published: February 2025

The sex ratio at birth (SRB) in Spain jumped abruptly in the late 1970s and temporarily reached values of more than 109 boys per 100 girls in the early 1980s. This article shows that health care system expansion increased the likelihood of male births in Spain between 1975 and 1995. By facilitating the delivery of preterm and dystocic babies and improving overall maternal conditions, these developments increased the survival chances of male fetuses, who are biologically weaker than females. However, biological factors alone cannot explain the biased SRB. Our analysis shows that the availability of prenatal sex determination technologies and a strong son preference nurtured by the Francoist dictatorship fostered gender-biased behaviors that resulted in an excessively high SRB. The lack of evidence on sex-specific abortions suggests that women took better care of themselves when carrying a son. The spread of gender-egalitarian values brought about by the end of the dictatorship and the transition to democracy undermined son preference and returned the SRB to normal levels.
Social distancing between personal belongings during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Guo Wen , Ikeda Ayumi , Takashima Kaito , Masuda Yoshitaka , Ueda Kohei , Ariga Atsunori , Sasaki Kyoshiro , Yamada Yuki
Published: February 2025

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has led to instructions and suggestions from governments and experts to maintain social (physical) distance between people to prevent aerosol transmission of the virus, which is now becoming the norm. Thus, we examined whether the pandemic extended the distance between personal belongings. Methods We recruited 68 university students and instructed them to place their belongings on a long table following another participant (i.e., confederate). We measured the physical distance between the two belongings (i.e., the participant’s and the confederate’s). We collected data between June 10, 2022 and January 23, 2023. Pre-pandemic data was from Ariga (2016). Analysis was completed with one-tailed t-tests. Results Compared with the pre-pandemic results, via one-tailed t-test, the distance between the two belongings during the pandemic was significantly longer. Our results supported the hypothesis that the psychological framework for processing people’s belongings has dramatically changed during this pandemic. Conclusion This change may have been driven by social distancing practices or an increase in perceived vulnerability to disease. Our results provide new implications for future public spatial design, in other words, not only the distance between people, but also the distance between their belongings.
Engaging Sustainable Reforestation and Forest Protection in the Wallacea Line, Indonesia
Authors: Ngongo Yohanis , Njurumana Gerson N. , Sallata Markus Kudeng , Allo Merryana Kiding , Muin Nurhaedah , Isnan Wahyudi , Najib Nardy Noeman , Hak Bisjoe Achmad Rizal , Putri Indra A. S. L. P. , Siappa Hariany , Hutapea Ronald T. P. , Andalina Yelin , Suhartati Suhartati , Seran Yohanes Leki , Tampubolon Agustinus Panusunan
Published: February 2025

The Wallacea region of Indonesia has high biodiversity and highly unique and endangered species. Its terrestrial ecosystems have unique flora and fauna found nowhere else. Nevertheless, the strategy for protecting and conserving the Wallacea ecosystem is like that in other parts of Indonesia, since it refers to the national forest and environmental regulations. The uniqueness of the Wallacea ecosystem does not reflect the extraordinary efforts of protecting and conserving the region’s pristine ecosystem. The continuing decline of the forestland and expansions of agricultural lands have indicated the need for a more fundamental and integrative approach to conserving and protecting the Wallacea ecosystem, particularly forestlands. We use the actor-centered power (ACP) approach or ideas and use the Wallacea Line to highlight how this idea is contested and confronted with the dynamics of complex societies and ecosystems. The ACP approach is the most widely used one in the implementation of the community forest (CF) program in Indonesia. The CF program is one of Indonesia’s community-based forest management schemes that empowers local communities to manage state forests sustainably. We chose two national parks established in the Wallacea region, Mutis on Timor Island and Matalawa on Sumba Island, to elaborate further on the development, conservation, and changes that occurred within that landscape. The ACP approach, in line with the spirit of the decentralization era, has mixed consequences for forest management and the biodiversity of the Wallacea region. Regarding the specific characteristics of the Wallacea region and lessons learned from the ACP approach implementation in the CF program, we then propose a sustainable model of reforestation and forest protection that applies the principle of “unity in diversity,” where all actors involved have space for the growth of creativity and positive contributions to sustainable forest protection.
Work-Nonwork boundaries in academia: A problematizing review
Authors: Čingienė Jūratė , Batuchina Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

The interplay between work and non-work in academic settings has been the subject of extensive research, particularly in relation to work-life balance and work-nonwork conflict. However, much of this literature has tended to overlook the specific dynamics of work-nonwork boundaries. Moreover, while prior research has explored general patterns of conflict and balance, it has not sufficiently addressed the unique pressures that academics face, such as high autonomy, irregular working hours, and competing demands. This review critically examines how the specific nature of academic work shapes the boundaries between work and non-work, advancing the conversation beyond traditional approaches. The central research question guiding this review is: How do the aspects of academic work shape the blurring of work-nonwork boundaries? Through a problematizing approach, this review relies on 41 articles to broaden and enhance our understanding of the boundary challenges academics encounter. Findings reveal that blurred work-nonwork boundaries in academia are driven by work-life demand overload, work-family conflicts, and a lack of organizational support, compounded by digitalisation and neoliberal practices. Heightened managerialism, careerism, and precarity exacerbate the blurring of these boundaries, affecting academics' well-being and identity work. By addressing these gaps, this review offers a nuanced understanding of how academics construct, navigate, and negotiate boundaries within a complex environment shaped by these pressures. The review challenges the limitations of conventional approaches to work-nonwork interface advocating for a more context-sensitive, experiential perspective.
FINANCIAL STABILITY OF AN ECONOMIC ENTITY AS A RESULT OF ADAPTATION TO THE CONDITIONS OF A VOLATILE MARKET ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Chilimova Tatyana A.
Published: February 2025

The analysis of the current state of the Russian economy has shown the increased role of business adaptation to external threats and risks in order to achieve financial stability. Due to its relevance, the problems of financial stability of an business entity are in the focus of attention of both foreign and domestic researchers. In the scientific literature, there are several conceptual points of view on the content of the concept of "financial stability". The presented author's understanding of financial stability is based on the relationship between risks, financial stability and financial stability. The main indicators used to assess the financial condition of an economic entity that meets or does not meet the signs of stability have been identified. The conclusions about the need to calculate individual norms of evaluation indicators reflecting the peculiarities of the functioning of each business entity are formulated in the conclusion.
Purpose:  analyzing the relationships between risks, financial stability and financial sustainability
Methodology:  A set of research methods was used, in particular such as systematic, formal-logical, and statistical methods of analysis
Results. The essential characteristics of the concepts of "financial stability" and "financial sustainability" were considered, and their relationship with factors affecting market volatility and risks was indicated. The most informative parameters showing selected  aspects of determining financial stability are highlighted.
Practical implications.  It is advisable to apply the obtained results to business entities of real business operating in a highly volatile economy.
IMPROVEMENT OF THE SYSTEM OF FINANCING AND STIMULATION OF RESEARCH WORK OF UNIVERSITIES
Authors: Mezdrikov Yuri V. , Belova Olga V.
Published: February 2025

Today, one of the main goals of development of the system of higher education is making universities more globally competitive based on a rating assessment of their activities. The present criteria and indicators do not make it possible to fully assess the quality of universities’ work in general and the quality of their research work in particular. The paper is devoted to the problem of methodological support for risk assessment, organization of the internal control system and the formation of rating assessment of universities’ research work with the purpose of improving efficiency of its financing and stimulating research work of academic staff. Analysis of the current assessment system of higher education institutions’ work and financing.  Measures are offered to enhance the quality of research activity in higher education institutions, effectiveness and efficiency of research work, stimulate scientific research of academic staff and wider implementation of research results into the real sector of the economy. 
The purpose of the research is to develop methodological support for risk assessment of the internal control system for financing and stimulating research work in universities.
The method and methodology of the work. The article used methods of analysis and synthesis, grouping and comparison, logical analysis, testing, methods of statistical data analysis, which allow the most complete investigation of the problems posed and assess the risks of the internal control system for financing and stimulating research work of universities and generate information for university administration to make managerial decisions.
Results. The critical analysis of the modern system of evaluating research activity of academic staff and the effectiveness of the research work of universities was made, the most informative parameters were identified, allowing to work out methodological support for the risk assessment of the internal control system for financing and stimulating the research activity of universities, it was proposed, along with quantitative indicators, to more fully use qualitative indicators for evaluating the performance of academic staff of research work. 
Scope of application of the results. The results obtained can be used when monitoring the quality of research work of universities by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the management and administration of higher educational institutions for internal control over the implementation and evaluation of research work of university academic staff.
The Analysis of the Current State of the Tula IT-Industry
Authors: Lomovcev D. , Lomovceva S. , Kiselev A.
Published: February 2025

The development trends of the Tula IT-industry, leading in the Russian digitization rating, are considers in the article. The authors explore the influence of the National program «Russian digital economy» to the branch and it’s overcoming of the external economic sanctions pressure.
Internal Audit As a Key Management Tool: Goal Setting, Assessment and Risk Management
Authors: Vakhorina Marina
Published: February 2025

The article reveals the role of internal audit in the process of goal setting and risk management assessment as an integral element of modern management. Companies in modern business conditions and a rapidly changing business environment face many challenges related to potential threats. Internal audit helps management achieve its goals by using a systematic and consistent approach to evaluating and improving the effectiveness of risk management, control and corporate governance processes, which makes it an essential tool for achieving the company's strategic goals.
The author updates the modern functions of internal audit in accordance with the International Professional Standards of Internal Audit (IASB), complementing the factors that may affect their content. Highlights the impact of the principles of internal audit, showing their complex impact on the company, ensuring a balance between efficiency, evaluation and rationality. This makes internal audit a key tool for achieving management's goal setting. The research is based on universal scientific methods – observation, practical methods of generalization and professional judgment, the method of critical assessment.
The element of scientific novelty is determined by the practical method of generalizing a more in-depth understanding of the role of internal audit to changing market conditions and the business environment. Using professional judgments, the author focuses on the impact of business risks on the risks of distortion of accounting (financial) statements.
Internal audit contributes to the creation of a risk management culture where risk management becomes an integrated element in business processes. Revealing the content of the stages of risk assessment and management, the role of internal audit in creating a culture of risk management within the company is assessed, which, in turn, contributes to its sustainable development and competitiveness.
The article will be useful for both practicing internal auditors and managers seeking to improve the level of risk management in the organization.
The Impact of Education of Employed Workers on the Economy of Modern Russia
Authors: Basovskiy Leonid , Basovskaya Elena
Published: February 2025

The paper attempts to assess the impact of levels and forms of education of employed workers on the level of per capita production based on econometric methods using Rosstat data. It has been established that in regions with a high level of per capita GRP, the use of labor of workers with higher education and secondary vocational education in programs for training mid-level specialists has a positive effect on the value of GRP. The use of labor of workers with secondary vocational education in programs for training skilled workers and employees with basic general education has a negative effect on the value of GRP. In regions with an average level of per capita GRP, the use of labor of workers with various levels and forms of education does not have a significant effect on the level of per capita GRP. In regions with a low level of per capita GRP, only the use of labor of workers with secondary vocational education in programs for training skilled workers and employees has a significant positive effect on the value of GRP. This can be explained by the fact that the country's economy combines the spread of both industrial and post-industrial technological structures.
Features of the Formation of Digital Business Ecosystems in Modern Conditions
Authors: Shishkin Andrey , Savina Irina , Bykova M.
Published: February 2025

The article discusses issues related to the development of digitalization at both the state and business levels. The analysis of the impact of the degree of digitalization on the creation of business ecosystems and their development is carried out. The characteristics of open and closed business ecosystems are given. The models of business ecosystems and the features of their formation are described. The issues of the structure of business ecosystems are considered. The components of the internal structure of business ecosystems are determined with the possibility of their integration into the external environment. The main challenges in which business ecosystems are currently functioning and possible prospects for their development and formation are determined. The forecast of the development of business ecosystems in the current economic and political situation in the world is given.
Analysis of the Drivers of Digitalization in the Banking Sector
Authors: Shishkin Andrey
Published: February 2025

The article discusses issues related to the development of the banking sector of the Russian Federation in the context of digitalization. The main drivers of the development of the banking sector using digital technologies and the degree of their influence on the formation of digital infrastructure are analyzed. The factors influencing the digital transformation of the banking sector are considered. The analysis of the data obtained during the study of the digital maturity of retail banks at the time of 2023 is carried out. The main directions of development of financial institutions on the way to self-improvement in the field of introduction and use of digital technologies in the provision of various types of financial services are formulated. The trends related to the formation of business ecosystems in the banking sector are analyzed. The main risks that a financial institution may face when forming digital business ecosystems that allow working with clients within a single digital window are formulated.
Energy Efficiency of the Russian Economy: Assessment and Forecast
Authors: Sorokina Natalia , Korostelev A.
Published: February 2025

The relevance of the study is determined by the fact that the current geopolitical situation makes the problem of ensuring energy efficiency of the Russian national economy particularly significant. The indicator "energy intensity of GDP" is used as a key indicator characterizing the efficiency of using energy resources. It is shown that in the period 2012-2022, there was a positive trend towards reducing the energy intensity of GDP due to energy conservation and increased energy efficiency. The regression analysis method was used to evaluate and predict the energy efficiency of the Russian economy. The formed regression model, which includes eight factor indicators, shows that the technological factor is a key driver of reducing the energy intensity of the GDP of the Russian Federation. The performed forecast estimates allow us to state that in the medium term, we should expect a return to the positive downward trend that took place in the period 2012-2022. Current and prospective estimates of the energy intensity of GDP suggest a likely increase in the efficiency of the Russian economy in terms of the use of energy resources.
The use of Focused-Attention Meditation Combined with Muscle Relaxation (MR Therapy) in the treatment of Recurrent Isolated Sleep Paralysis (RISP)- two case reports
Authors: Wróbel-Knybel Paulina , Wołkowski Leszek , Karakuła-Juchnowicz Hanna
Published: February 2025

Recurrent isolated sleep paralysis (RISP) belongs to the parasomnias of the REM sleep. Currently, there are few treatment options for this disorder. Pharmacotherapy is reserved only for the most severe cases of RISP. The first-line treatment is cognitive-behavioural therapy, the availability of which is limited. A new treatment option is meditation-relaxation therapy (MR therapy), the effectiveness of which is supported by preliminary studies.
Method: This article describes two case reports of the use of a new treatment technique for RISP, MR therapy, over an 8-week period.
Results: In patient 1, there was a significant improvement in the form of a reduction in the number and severity of episodes of sleep paralysis, as well as worry and stress related to RISP. In patient 2, who was simultaneously diagnosed with an emotionally unstable personality and an eating disorder, there was no improvement in RISP, though a significant decrease in the severity of depressive symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorder, and normalisation of cortisol levels were observed.
Conclusions: MR therapy appears to be a promising form of treatment. Both patients benefited from its use, although the effect may be limited if other psychiatric disorders coexist.