bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex-specific role of epigenetic modification of a leptin upstream enhancer in adipose tissue
Authors: Müller Luise , Oelkrug Rebecca , Mittag Jens , Hoffmann Anne , Ghosh Adhideb , Noé Falko , Wolfrum Christian , Guiu Jurado Esther , Klöting Nora , Dietrich Arne , Blüher Matthias , Kovacs Peter , Krause Kerstin , Keller Maria
Published: February 2025

Objective

Maternal hormonal status can have long-term effects on offspring metabolic health and is likely regulated via epigenetic mechanisms. We elucidated the effects of maternal thyroid hormones on the epigenetic regulation of leptin (Lep) transcription in adipose tissue (AT) and subsequently investigated the role of DNA methylation at a Lep upstream enhancer (UE) in adipocyte biology.

Results

Pregnant mice treated with triiodothyronine (T3) produced offspring with reduced body weight, total fat mass, and gonadal white adipose tissue (gWAT) mass at 6 months of age (treatment: N = 8; control: N = 12). Compared with control offspring, exclusively female offspring of T3-treated mothers presented lower Lep mRNA levels and higher Lep UE methylation in gWAT. In murine preadipocytes, targeted demethylation of the Lep UE via a dCas9-SunTag-TET1 system reduced methylation by ~ 20%, but this effect was insufficient to alter Lep expression or lipid accumulation after differentiation. In human omental visceral AT (OVAT) samples from the Leipzig Obesity BioBank (LOBB, N = 52), LEP UE methylation was associated with body fat percentage, and mediation analysis indicated that leptin serum levels partially mediate this association exclusively in females.

Conclusion

Findings from the animal model suggest that maternal thyroid hormones influence offspring gWAT Lep expression in a sex-specific manner, potentially through changes in Lep UE methylation. However, in vitro experiments indicate that Lep UE methylation alone is not sufficient to regulate Lep expression or adipocyte lipid accumulation. In humans with obesity, LEP UE methylation is associated with body fat percentage, with leptin serum levels potentially acting as a mediator exclusively in females.
Bibliometric analysis on the research focus of otolaryngological surgery
Authors: Ren Liyan , Yin Yanli , Wang Fang , Zhu Hongbo , Han Li , Liang Tao , Ping Fumin
Published: February 2025

An investigation was carried out to assess the scholarly impact of scientific papers in otolaryngological surgery from 2010 to 2023 using their frequency of citations as a measure. The investigation focused on the 100 most cited papers, collecting data on the year of publication, country of origin, journal source, paper type, and research field. The publications were distributed across 55 out of the 160 journals in the field, and each piece received citations ranging from 131 to 1775. Most (54.1%) of these papers were classified within medicine. The United States became the primary source country for these papers, providing 68 publications. A peak of 20 papers were published in 2011, marking the highest amount. In the US, the journal “Otolaryngology Head And Neck Surgery” has the impact factor 7.8 and has significantly advanced the field. With nine publications, R.M. Rosenfeld was found to be the author with the most publications. Overall, the probability of a paper referenced on otolaryngological surgery is influenced by factors such as the language in which it is published, the country it originates from, and the journal it is sourced from. These factors demonstrate the complex nature of academic influence in this field.
Neuropathological stages of neuronal, astrocytic and oligodendrocytic alpha-synuclein pathology in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Otero-Jimenez Maria , Wojewska Marcelina J. , Binding Lawrence P. , Jogaudaite Simona , Gray-Rodriguez Sandra , Young Alexandra L. , Gentleman Steve , Alegre-Abarrategui Javier
Published: February 2025

Alpha-synucleinopathies are neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the spread of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates throughout the central nervous system in a stereotypical manner. These diseases include Lewy body disease (LBD), which encompass Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD), and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). LBD and MSA chiefly contain α-syn aggregates in neurons and oligodendrocytes, respectively, although glial α-syn pathology in LBD is increasingly being recognized. Semi-quantitative and machine learning-based quantifications of neuronal, oligodendrocytic and astrocytic α-syn pathology were implemented on a cohort of LBD and MSA post-mortem tissue samples. The neuroanatomical distribution of each cell-type specific α-syn pathology was evaluated using conditional probability matrices and Subtype and Stage Inference (SuStaIn) algorithm. We revealed extensive glial α-syn pathology in LBD, emphasizing the disease- and region-specific profile of astrocytic α-syn pathology, which was absent in MSA and minimal in the substantia nigra of LBD. Furthermore, we have described distinct morphologies of astrocytic α-syn pathology, which were found to correlate with the density of astrocytic α-syn inclusions. Astrocytic α-syn pathology was mainly centered in the amygdala and exhibited a unique stereotypical progression whilst oligodendrocytes displayed a distribution akin to the established neuronal progression pattern. SuStaIn modeling was further used to test for heterogeneity in the spatiotemporal progression, revealing that a subset of cases might follow an alternative pattern. Based on these findings, we introduce a novel multimodal progression framework that integrates, for the first time, the temporal and spatial progression of astrocytic and oligodendrocytic α-syn pathology alongside neuronal pathology in PD, providing further information regarding the role of neurons and glia in disease pathogenesis.
Microbial profiling of black soldier fly larvae reared on substrates supplemented with different mineral sources originating from phosphorus recycling technologies
Authors: Reyer Henry , Mielenz Manfred , Daş Gürbüz , Metges Cornelia C. , Wimmers Klaus
Published: February 2025

Background

Innovations to establish agricultural value chains utilising side streams and their reintegration into the feed and food supply are of great importance. Recyclates derived from biomass and waste are therefore becoming increasingly important as sources of nutrients. The larvae of the black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens) demonstrate considerable potential as livestock feed due to their ability to utilise a wide range of organic substrates. In this study, BSF larvae (BSFL) were reared on four different substrates: chicken feed diet (CD), high-fibre Gainesville fly diet (FD), or FD supplemented either with biochar (FD + BCH) or single superphosphate (FD + SSP) recyclates from sewage sludge processing. To validate the hypothesis that endogenous and substrate-associated microbiota significantly contribute to substrate conversion, the microbiota profiles of BSFL gut and frass were analysed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Results were associated to the different substrates as well as body composition, growth performance data, and mineral concentration of the larvae.

Results

The CD substrate was superior in terms of larval growth, although it caused a lower microbial alpha diversity in the larval intestine and frass compared to FD, with a dominance of Morganellaceae and families of Lactobacillales. The addition of the two sewage sludge derived products to the FD substrate significantly increased the calcium content of BSFL, while the phosphorus content was only increased by the addition of SSP. The shifts in the microbiota profiles of BSFL gut and frass indicated that BCH contributed to the regulation of the microbial milieu with suppressing the growth of potentially pathogenic microbes. The addition of SSP resulted in an enrichment of microorganisms with attributed phosphate-solubilising properties such as Pseudomonas and fungal species, likely being responsible for improving the bioavailability of phosphorus from the substrate.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate the high adaptability of the BSFL and its ability to change the substrate through specific microbiota in such a way that conditions are created for an optimal nutrient supply and thus growth of the larvae.
Depression, anxiety, stress, sleep quality, and life satisfaction among undergraduate medical students in the Gaza Strip: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Aldabbour Belal , Jaradat Roa , Aljbour Omar , Abdo Mahmoud , Aljbour Jumana , Dayya Alaa Abo , Dabbour Asad Mohammad , Abuabada Amal
Published: February 2025

Background

Medical students suffer above-average rates of depression, anxiety, stress, poor sleep, and life dissatisfaction, which impacts their performance. In addition to the demands of medical study, medical students in the Gaza Strip face coping with life in an area marred by chronic conflict and poverty.

Methods

This cross-sectional study assessed medical students at the two medical schools in the Gaza Strip. Students were randomized according to university, sex, and academic level. Screening employed the DASS21, PSQI, and SWLS instruments. Ordinal logistic regression was used to investigate predictors of anxiety, stress, depression, sleep quality, and SWLS stage. Potential predictors of poor sleep quality were assessed by binary logistic regression, and multivariable logistic regression was implemented to determine the effect of covariates.

Results

Three hundred sixty-two medical students participated. Different stages of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were prevalent in 69%, 77.3%, and 65.2% of students, respectively. Poor sleep quality was prevalent in 77.9% of students, and 46.1% of medical students were dissatisfied with their lives. Low income was associated with higher rates of extremely severe anxiety and with higher rates of moderate depression. Poor sleep quality was associated with higher rates of all-stage anxiety, stress, and depression in univariate regression and with higher odds of moderate anxiety and mild, moderate, and extremely severe depression in multivariable regression.

Conclusions

Medical students in the Gaza Strip suffer from high rates of depression and anxiety symptoms, stress, poor sleep, and life dissatisfaction compared to several other countries and the pooled global prevalence. Medical schools in Gaza should put forward strategies to limit the psychological burdens perceived by their students.
New Treatment Options for Non–Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Filon Mikolaj , Schmidt Bogdana
Published: February 2025

Non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) comprises 75% of newly diagnosed bladder cancer and poses significant clinical challenges because of high recurrence and progression rates. Despite the effectiveness of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy after transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), BCG fails nearly 40% of patients, requiring alternative treatments. Traditionally, radical cystectomy has been the standard for BCG-unresponsive disease, although it significantly affects quality of life. Recent advances have focused on bladder-preserving therapies that leverage immune checkpoint inhibitors, viral gene therapies, novel drug delivery systems, and targeted molecular agents. Emerging approaches such as TAR-200 and UGN-102 offer novel intravesical delivery systems that enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic adverse effects. Viral therapies, including nadofaragene firadenovec and CG0070, deliver immune-activating and oncolytic agents directly to urothelial tumor cells. Additionally, immune checkpoint inhibitors such as pembrolizumab and durvalumab have demonstrated potential for systemic treatments in BCG-unresponsive NMIBC and may show even more promise in combinations. Ongoing trials are expected to provide crucial data on these therapies' efficacy, particularly in high-risk and intermediate-risk populations. For low-grade NMIBC, efforts are underway to de-escalate care through active surveillance and novel adjuvant therapies, reducing the need for repeated TURBT procedures. Together, these advancements highlight a promising shift toward personalized, bladder-preserving strategies that prioritize patient quality of life while addressing unmet needs in NMIBC management.
What Is the Optimal Locoregional Approach for Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma?
Authors: Newman Neil B. , Court Colin M. , Parikh Alexander A.
Published: February 2025

The Oncology Grand Rounds series is designed to place original reports published in the
Journal
into clinical context. A case presentation is followed by a description of diagnostic and management challenges, a review of the relevant literature, and a summary of the authors’ suggested management approaches. The goal of this series is to help readers better understand how to apply the results of key studies, including those published in
Journal of Clinical Oncology
, to patients seen in their own clinical practice.
Virtual Second-Opinion Delivery for Oncology Patients
Authors: Shah Aadit P. , Shi Siyu , Sun Thomas Y. , Patel Manali I. , Shah Sumit A.
Published: February 2025

PURPOSE

Patients with cancer face increasing difficulty securing access to timely, quality oncologic care. A virtual consultation program at a tertiary academic center could eliminate physical barriers while providing treatment recommendations that could be executed locally.

METHODS

We evaluated an
Online Second Opinions Program
to increase access to expert care via a cloud-based platform through Included Health. This program was open to any patient globally who had a local treating physician. Patient records were compiled and sent to a disease expert at Stanford Healthcare. A report detailing an assessment and treatment recommendation was then returned within 3 days. We analyzed the characteristics of the patient base and the frequency with which treatment change was recommended.

RESULTS

Between November 2018 and August 2020, 657 patients participated in the program. The majority of patients were female (58.4%) with a mean age of 60 years. A majority lived out-of-state (62%, with 24.7% of total patients from outside the United States) and had advanced disease (77.2% diagnosed at stage III or IV). Breast cancer was the most common diagnosis (24.7%). Physicians providing the virtual service were primarily medical oncologists (67.6%) and reported to have recommended a treatment change in more than half of the cases reviewed (53.8%). A treatment change was most often recommended for patients with stage II disease (64%), and least often for stage I and III disease (both 45%).

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is one of the first studies to describe patients who use virtual second-opinion programs for oncology, showing that more than half of the patients were recommended to have a treatment change. Although patients most often had advanced disease, those with stage II disease most often received a treatment change recommendation.
Entanglement signatures of the small world transition in Heisenberg type models across network topologies
Authors: Solanki Payal D. , Ramkarthik M. S.
Published: February 2025

This paper, investigates the Heisenberg model across diverse network topologies, and studying the variation of entanglement measures across these network topologies. Various network types are introduced along with their properties. An algorithm for generating networks using the Watts-Strogatz small world model is presented,focusing on the transition from regular to random networks via the small world regime. The objective is to explore the entanglement landscape of the Heisenberg model across these network conﬁgurations, using extensive numerics. Insights into entanglement behaviour using graph theoretic properties such as local average clustering coeﬃcient and the number of edge cuts during bipartitioning are provided. This opens up ways to analyze such complicated network topologies using entanglement.
Jansen’s disease: bone abnormalities beyond chondrodysplasia
Authors: Pereira Renata C , Delany Anne M , Reyes Monica , Gales Barbara , Jüppner Harald , Salusky Isidro B
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to assess changes in bone microarchitecture, bone formation and bone protein expression in two pediatric patients with Jansen metaphyseal chondrodysplasia (JMC), harboring the H223R-PTHR1 mutation.

Methods

Bone histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry and histologic analyses were conducted on iliac crest biopsy samples from two male siblings affected by JMC (ages 6 and 8 years) and 9 healthy control males of similar age, with normal kidney function.

Results

Both JMC patients displayed irregular bone architecture, increased osteoid, and a prolonged osteoid maturation process. While trabecular volume remained normal, immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated increased in PTH1R expression in both osteoblasts and fibroblastic cells on the bone surface. Cortical bone displayed areas of intense osteoclast activity and scattered marrow fibrosis. Remarkably, osteocytes in JMC patient samples had osteoid buildup within their lacunae and canaliculi that were both shorter and less abundant. DMP1 immunohistochemistry highlighted the abnormal canalicular network in patients. FGF23 staining in osteocytes was enhanced while sclerostin was diminished.

Conclusion

The H223R-PTH1R mutation in JMC patients leads to bone structural irregularities, hypomineralization, abnormal osteocyte morphology, and altered expression of osteocyte-derived proteins. These findings underscore the multifaceted impact of the mutant PTH1R on bone physiology and focus attention on the osteocyte as a cellular target for therapeutic intervention. Whether normalizing gene expression in osteocytes is possible and can improve bone health in JMC patients remains to be seen. Assessment of osteocyte morphology and function may provide novel diagnostic endpoints for future clinical trials with JMC therapeutics.
The Role of Science in Democracy: John Dewey as a Foil to Frank Knight
Authors: Tauzin Dillon , Woltz Kaitlyn
Published: February 2025

Frank Knight—known primarily for his contributions to neoclassical economic theory—was, throughout his career, more concerned with expressing the boundaries of that theory. His preoccupation with democracy motivated his constant admonitions about the limitations of economic science for the purpose of social reform. It makes sense, then, that John Dewey's scientific conception of democracy elicited a strong reaction in Knight. Knight's foundational concerns, and some of his more enigmatic views, can be better understood with reference to his criticism of Dewey. The basic lesson Knight wanted to express to the economics profession, and to the public generally, is that the kind of intelligence that is relevant in addressing social problems is different from the kind embodied in the scientific method.
Older Women’s Health: Protocol for a Randomized Trial Involving Power Training and Resistance Training with Elastic Bands
Authors: Bavaresco Gambassi Bruno , Schwingel Paulo Adriano , Gomes Lucas Tavares , Rodrigues Cintia Sousa , Matos da Silva Antonio Ricardo , Filho Wellington Fernandes Maciel , Leite Thiago Gomes , Costa Chaves Luiz Filipe , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo
Published: February 2025

Context

Despite the benefits of exercise for older people’s health, there is little research on exercise with elastic bands and arterial stiffness and hemodynamic markers, specifically for older women. Such research is important because women tend to live longer than men and comprise most of the older adult population.

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different protocols with elastic bands on older women’s arterial stiffness, hemodynamic markers, functional parameters, and body composition.

Design

The study will be a randomized controlled trial.

Setting

This study focuses on the possibilities of low-cost and easily accessible training to improve arterial stiffness and hemodynamic markers in older women.

Participants

Participants will be 30 older women (≥65 yr).

Intervention

The women will be randomly assigned to either a dynamic power training plus endurance training group (DPTG) (n = 15) or dynamic traditional resistance training plus endurance training group (DRTG) (n = 15). Training will be performed twice a week over 12 wk using moderate-intensity elastic bands. Sessions will include seven exercises performed continuously in a circuit-like format. DRTG will use 2 s of movement velocity for both the concentric and eccentric phases of each exercise, whereas DPTG will perform the concentric phase as quickly as possible. DRTG will also perform a squat exercise, whereas DPTG will perform a countermovement jump. Both intervention groups will perform the same volume of moderate-intensity endurance training.

Main Outcome Measures

The outcome measures will be arterial stiffness and hemodynamic markers (primary outcome), and functional parameters and body composition (secondary outcome).

Conclusion

Because the intervention requires only elastic bands and a chair, this study protocol can be easily applied. In addition to being low cost, the intervention can be utilized almost anywhere (e.g., in public spaces and rehabilitation centers).
Damage and economic impact of wood-borers (Bivalvia, Teredinidae) on artisanal fishing in Morocco: a case study
Authors: EL JAMAAI JAZILA , TAHERI AHMED , EL AJJOURI BILAL , ADLAN MERINI MOHAMMED SAID , BORGES LUÍSA M. S.
Published: February 2025

This study presents the first comprehensive assessment of the economic impact of wood-boring bivalves from the family Teredinidae on artisanal fishing in Tangier, Morocco, following the establishment of a new fishing port that has seen a marked increase in infestations since its opening in 2018. We conducted a questionnaire survey with over 40 artisanal shipowners to evaluate the extent of damage and repair costs associated with teredinids. The results indicated that 77.5% of the fleet was affected, with a significant proportion reporting moderate damage. Analysis of wood samples revealed two dominant teredinid species: Lyrodus cf. pedicellatus, and Teredo bartschi, both recorded for the first time in Morocco, marking them as alien invasive species in the region. The vulnerability of wooden boats, particularly those constructed from softwoods (e.g., Picea sp. and Pinus sp.), was evident, while polyester boats remained unaffected. Annual repair costs due to shipworm damage were estimated to exceed Moroccan Dirham (MAD) 4.7 million (US$ 470,000), representing over 6% of the artisanal fishery annual value, significantly impacting the livelihoods of artisanal fishermen. Shipping activities through the Strait of Gibraltar likely facilitated the introduction of teredinids. Their adaptability and rising sea temperatures suggest teredinids’ range will continue to expand, threatening local fishing infrastructure. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted management strategies to mitigate the economic and ecological impacts of these invasive species on artisanal fishing communities.
Sexual dysfunction and other prolactin-related side effects of antipsychotic drugs in schizophrenia: Protocol for a systematic review with single-arm, pairwise, and network meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials and non-randomized studies
Authors: Schneider-Thoma Johannes , Dong Shimeng , Efthimiou Orestis , Siafis Spyridon , Hansen Wulf Peter , Scheuring Elfriede , Möhrmann Karl Heinz , Leucht Stefan
Published: February 2025

Introduction Sexual dysfunctions are common yet underreported side effects of antipsychotics for schizophrenia, affecting 30-80% of treated individuals. These side effects can severely impact social interactions and treatment adherence for individuals with schizophrenia, but comprehensive comparative evidence assessing the risk profiles of different antipsychotics is lacking. This study aims to address this gap using network meta-analysis that integrates data from both randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies (NRS). Protocol This systematic review will include both RCTs and NRS focusing on participants with schizophrenia or schizophrenia-like psychoses, without restrictions on symptoms, gender, ethnicity, age, or setting. For interventions, all second-generation antipsychotics will be included. The primary outcome will be the occurrence of at least one sexual adverse event of any kind. Secondary outcomes will be the occurrence of any sexual adverse event evaluated in men and women separately, and any adverse event related to the three phases of sexual response cycle separately: desire (e.g. libido, sexual thoughts), arousal (e.g. erection, lubrication) and orgasm (e.g. ejaculation, anorgasmia), and any adverse effect related to breast dysfunction and menstruation irregularities. Study selection and data extraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 1 and ROBINS-I will be employed to evaluate the risk of bias for RCTs and NRS, respectively. Single-arm meta-analysis of proportions will synthesize the average frequency of sexual adverse events in treated participants. Pairwise and network meta-analysis of RCTs and NRS will be used to evaluate comparative tolerability. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses will explore possible heterogeneity in results and validate the findings’ robustness. The quality of the evidence will be evaluated using GRADE. Discussion This study will provide vital insights into the sexual side effects of antipsychotics by combining evidence from clinical trials and real-world practice, facilitating better decision-making in choosing the optimal antipsychotic for individuals.
Effectiveness of an educational intervention in the integral care of patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Goicochea-Rios Evelyn , Otiniano Nélida Milly
Published: February 2025

Background To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention in the integral care of patients with diabetes mellitus. Methods A pre-experimental study was carried out with 103 patients with diabetes mellitus treated at Essalud, La Libertad, during the second quarter of 2024. Pre and post educational intervention information was collected about knowledge of the disease, complications, physical activity and diet, adherence to treatment and family support, number of medical and nursing controls per quarter, glycemia values, HbA1c and compliance with treatment after informed consent. The educational intervention included theoretical aspects of diabetes mellitus, self-care, physical activity, nutrition and family support in 2-hour workshops, once a week, for 2 months. Results Predominantly female, mean age 63.22 years, higher education, marital status married/cohabiting and main occupation employed/independent. The 97.1% had type 2 diabetes mellitus, 38.8% reported disease duration < 5 years, 72.8% were treated with metformin and the main comorbidity was hypertension (58.3%). The educational intervention improved knowledge about diabetes mellitus (p < 0.001), achieved a significant change in eating habits (p = 0.022) and family support (p = 0.043), and homogenized the level of support among families (p = 0.025). 51.5% of the participants were noncompliant with the prescribed treatment. A significant difference (p < 0.01) was observed in the proportion of patients complying with treatment before and after the intervention. 76.8% of patients who initially complied with treatment continued to do so after the intervention. The efficacy of the educational program on glycemic control was not evidenced. Regarding integral control, 83.5 % of the patients received quarterly medical care and 44.7 % received nursing care. Conclusion The educational program was effective in improving knowledge about DM2, adherence to healthy eating and significantly improved the level of family support and compliance with treatment.
Evaluate the Efficacy of Selected Microorganism and their Consortium for Degradation of Low-Density Polyethylene Bags Under Pot Conditions
Authors: Desalegn Asfaw Tadila , Muleta Atsede , Teshome Awlachew Zewdu
Published: February 2025

Background Plastic waste is becoming the most significant environmental pollutant because it is challenging to degrade naturally due to its composition of long hydrocarbon polymer chains. The present study aims to find out the biodegradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) using both pure microbial strains TA1 (Aspergillus tubignesis), TA2 (Aspergillus fumigatus), TA3 (Aspergillus niger), TA6 (Pseudomonas aeruginosa), TA7, and TA8 (Proteus mirabilis) and a consortium of these strains under pot conditions. Methods The experiment used sterilized dumpsite soil surface-sterilized with 5% sodium hypochlorite for 3 minutes, rinsed with distilled water, and dried pots. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used with 32 treatments submerged in low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic of two thicknesses: 25 microns and 40 microns. Each treatment was replicated three times and conducted over two intervals: 6 months and 9 months. Results The results showed that the maximum biodegradation of 25-micron-thick LDPE films was achieved using the pure fungal isolate Aspergillus niger (TA3) 13.69%, followed by Aspergillus fumigatus (TA2) 11.9% and Aspergillus tubignesis (TA1) 10.54% after 9 months. For 40-micron-thick LDPE films, the degradation rates were 7.8%, 5.8%, and 4.6% respectively. Using a consortium of three fungal species resulted in a maximum weight loss of 19.17% for 25-micron-thick LDPE bags and 9.8% for 40-micron-thick LDPE bags over the same period. FTIR analysis revealed changes in the functional groups on the LDPE surface, indicating hydrocarbon degradation. Conclusion The study found that pure microorganisms resulted in less weight loss compared to microbial consortia, and fungi were more effective than bacteria in degrading the LDPE plastic. Despite the differences, the current study suggested that microbial consortia provide an eco-friendly solution to address LDPE-related environmental issues with minimal adverse effects.
PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FEED ADDITIVES MARKET: THE USE OF SNAIL PRODUCTS
Authors: Golembovskii Vladimir V. , Marchenko Vyacheslav V. , Surov Alexander I. , Pashkova Larisa A.
Published: February 2025

Background. The relevance of the conducted research is justified by both industrial and scientific necessity of development of variants of utilization of protein-containing raw materials of snails of the genus Helix.
Purpose. The goal is to identify the possibility of developing new feed products from non-traditional protein-containing raw materials for use in animal husbandry.
Materials and methods. All studies were carried out according to generally accepted methods in accredited laboratories and on the basis of VNIIOK, a branch of the North Caucasian Federal National Scientific Center of the Stavropol Territory.
The starting raw materials were snails of the genus Helix in the process of industrial production of escargot, in which the resulting production waste, including liver, stomach, intestines, heart, lung and others, which had not previously found further technological application, are considered in this work as an alternative to traditional feed raw materials. The influence of several possible options for using processing stages (simmering in water at 60–70°C and freezing) in escargot technology on the quality of production waste has been studied. Several samples were examined: 1 – waste from the production of products from Helix pomatia, containing liver, stomach, intestines, heart, lung and others; 2 and 3 – the body of Helix lucorum in two variants of processing technology, including one of the stages of heat treatment – cooking and freezing, 4 – the body of Helix aspersa Muller, which was also frozen.
Results. We determined the chemical, amino acid, vitamin-mineral and fatty acid composition of samples produced by snails of the genus Helix.
The results demonstrated a high content of vital vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, which contribute to full metabolism in the body and ensure high productivity of farm animals. The given chemical composition demonstrates a maximum crude protein content of up to 85.9 %.
Conclusion. Thus, snails of the genus Helix represent a valuable feed material, which can be used in animal husbandry.
ASSESSMENT OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF THE SOIL UNDER SORGHUM X DRUMMONDII (STEUD.) MILLSP. & CHASE WHEN APPLYING MINERAL FERTILIZERS
Authors: Shuliko Natalya N. , Timokhin Artem Yu. , Tukmacheva Elena V. , Boyko Vasily S.
Published: February 2025

In this study (2020-2022), the effect of mineral fertilizers on the activity of the microbial pool and the enzymatic activity of meadow-chernozem soil under the sowing of sorghum-sudank hybrid (Sorghum х drummondii (Steud.) Millsp. & Chase), as well as the productivity of the culture. The experiment was carried out in a long-term stationary experiment of the laboratory of field feed production of the Omsk Agrarian Scientific Center. The highest population of microorganisms was observed with complex fertilization, an increase in relation to the non-maneuverable variant was 39%. The number of saprotrophic bacteria increased to 39,1 × 106 CFU/g of soil (30,0 × 106 CFU/g at the control), amylolytic microorganisms, including actinomycetes – up to 30,4 × 106 CFU/g (19,8 × 106 CFU/g at the control), cellulose–destroying - up to 97,0 × 103 CFU/g (66,6 × 103 CFU/g under control). It was found that microbiological processes in the soil proceeded more intensively on a fertilized (N60P60) background, the increase in the Pm coefficient was 15% compared to the control. The determination of the enzymatic activity of meadow-chernozem soil, depending on the application of the studied agricultural method, revealed an increase in the enzymatic processes of invertase and urease formation (up to 6%), inhibition of catalase (decrease to 34%) as a result of acidification of the soil by anions of mineral fertilizers. The improvement of the nutrient regime of the soil due to the integrated use of mineral fertilizers ensured the collection of 22,67 t/ha of green mass, 6,32 t/ha of feed units, 0,75 t/ha of digestible protein, 69,87 gj/ha of metabolic energy.
Sponsorship information. The work was carried out within the framework of the state research program FNUN-2022-0015.
FACTORS OF INTERREGIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASYMMETRY IN THE SOUTH OF RUSSIA
Authors: Medyanik Natalya V. , Harputlu Mustafa , Tlisov Azamat B. , Kiseleva Natalia N. , Mambetov Murat A.
Published: February 2025

Background. The importance of studying spatial environmental asymmetry determines not only the prospects for the placement of "nature-dependent" activities, but also the need for balanced spatial development of the country's regions, taking into account the uneven allocation of ecosystem benefits.
Goal. Substantiation of the critical influence of the space factor on the environmental parameters of the development of the regions of Southern Russia.
Methods. The study is based on a systematic methodology and a spatial approach that constitute the South of Russia as a meso-level environmental management formation within the borders of adjacent subjects of the Southern and North Caucasian Federal Districts.
Results. The complex orography of the terrain, the diversity of climatic factors and the variety of landscape characteristics in the South of Russia form the natural prerequisites for a high fragmentation and mosaic of the natural space. Thus, the difference in the provision of ecosystem goods between the southern regions is 18.1 times in the share of protected areas, 23 times in the density of the river network, 56.9 times in the number of deposits and mineral manifestations, 111.2 and 162.1 times in the availability of water resources and agricultural land, respectively, 183.5 times in the forested area, 329.4 times in the density of watercourses. Equally, the reasons for the high environmental interregional asymmetry are sectoral specialization and the architectonics of economic activity, concentrated in the most developed regions of the South of the Russian Federation, such as Krasnodar and Stavropol Territories, Volgograd and Rostov regions, which account for 71.1% of emissions and 79.0% of discharges of pollutants, 75.9% of production and consumption waste, 50.3% of sampling, 66.6% use and 50.0% of water losses, 80.4% of production and 69.5% of electricity consumption, 60.6% of farmland, 81.9% of arable land.
Conclusions. The main factors of high fragmentation, interregional asymmetry of the natural resource space of the South of Russia are the mosaic of landscape characteristics that affect the spatial distribution and typological polymorphism of ecosystem goods, as well as the industry specifics of the economy and the explication of the economic landscape on the southern borders of the country, which determine the parameters of regional nature management.
STAGES OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF HEALTHCARE: RESULTS AND PROSPECTS
Authors: Krylova Irina A.
Published: February 2025

The digitalization of healthcare has gone through a period of experimentation, systematization and the beginning of large-scale application in medicine. Modern medical care uses fundamentally new technologies and effectively solves the clinical, logistical and educational problems of the healthcare system, acts as a routine process and is in constant dynamic development, which requires timely assessment and summing up of threshold results.
Purpose. Based on a generalization of the experience of digital transformation of healthcare, highlight the main stages of the use of digital technologies in modern routine medical care practice and determine the basic trends in the development of remote medicine.
Results. An analysis of data on the use of digital technologies in practical medicine was carried out. Regulatory legal acts and their implementation in the field of distance medicine have been studied. For the first time, periods of introduction of digital technologies as a routine practice of modern healthcare have been identified. The main characteristics of each stage of implementation of remote technologies and the locus of their effective application are determined. Global prospects for remote technologies in medical practice are outlined.
Conclusion. Each period of digital transformation of medicine has been marked by fundamentally new technologies for providing medical care. The use of modern remote medicine techniques as a routine practice has gone through three stages of development: the creation and implementation of digital medical information systems, the introduction of telemedicine consultations and the creation of technologies for remote monitoring of health indicators. The global perspectives of each type of remote technologies in healthcare practice are highlighted.
PERFORMANCE OF CLONAL APPLE ROOTSTOCKS IN MOTHER PLANTATION AND ORCHARD UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF THE SOUTHERN CISBAIKALIA
Authors: Rachenko Maxim A. , Rachenko Anna M. , Kiseleva Elena N.
Published: February 2025

Background. The study of the performance of clonal apple rootstocks under the conditions of the Southern Cisbaikalia is of great importance for science and agriculture. It can expand our knowledge of plant adaptation to the specific climatic conditions of the region and provide valuable guidance for gardeners and nurserymen.
Purpose. To characterize the adaptive capabilities of clonal apple rootstocks of different geographical origins in the south of the Irkutsk region and assess the likelihood of their further use in horticulture of the region.
Materials and methods. All the studies were carried out in 2018-2021 at the collection plots of Siberian Institute of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences located in Irkutsk and in the Irkutsk district of the Irkutsk region.
The study of rootstocks in the mother plantation and variety/rootstock combinations in the orchard was carried out according to the Program and Methods for the Study of Varieties of Fruit, Berry and Nut Crops.
Results. The conducted fieldwork allowed assessing genotypes Arm-18 and K-2 as slightly winter-hardy. SCAC, Ural, Ural-2, 4-12, and E-56 were assessed as highly winter-hardy clonal rootstocks. The rest of the genotypes were assessed as winter-hardy.
All the clonal rootstocks used for grafting, except for the control (SCAC), were assessed as winter-hardy, SCAC - highly winter-hardy.
The Katyusha variety retained high winter hardiness when grafted onto all the genotypes of clonal rootstocks. The Prevoshodnoe variety retained high winter hardiness only when grafted onto SCAC; in other combinations it was rated as medium winter-hardy (onto clonal rootstock 70-6-8) and winter-hardy (onto the other rootstocks). The Raiskoe variety retained high winter hardiness on clonal rootstocks of genotypes 70-6-8, 62-396, and SCAC; on the other clonal rootstocks, it was assessed as winter-hardy. The Lada variety appeared to be winter-hardy on all the studied clonal rootstocks, despite the fact that this variety in the region is rated as highly winter-hardy.
Conclusion. The phenological observations showed that the climatic conditions of the studied region favour the complete passage of all phases of development of the studied genotypes of clonal rootstocks. The long-term study of field winter hardiness of clonal rootstocks showed that the majority of the studied genotypes were assessed as winter-hardy and promising for further study. The field tests were ensured by the artificial freezing experiments. All of that allowed identifying the most valuable clonal rootstocks for breeding in the Southern Cisbaikalia: E56, Ural, Ural 2, 4-12, and SCAC.
PREDICTIVE MODELS OF THE PROBABILITY OF REDUCING THE LATENCIES OF VISUAL EVOKED POTENTIALS FOR THE FLASH UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF SPELEOTHERAPY
Authors: Semiletova Vera A. , Prisny Andrey A.
Published: February 2025

Neurophysiological techniques are used as a means of monitoring the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions, including speleotherapy. A course of speleotherapy improves the speed of the visual signal, the speed of primary processing of information and the speed of analysis of visual information.
Purpose. To study the probability of reducing the latencies of visual evoked potential (VEP) waves to a flash under the influence of speleotherapy depending on the initial durations of VEP waves.
Materials and methods. 73 2nd year students of VSMU (18-21 years old) took part in our study: 49 students from the experimental group and 24 students from the comparison group. Each participant was informed about the purpose of the study, each signed an agreement to participate in the study. The course of speleotherapy consisted of 10 sessions of 60 minutes each and was carried out in a stationary ground speleochamber at a temperature of 18–22 °C. Before the start of speleotherapy and on the 10th day of speleotherapy at rest, visual evoked potentials to the right and left to the flash were recorded using the neuromyoanalyzer "Neuromian". The analysis of the obtained data was carried out using IBM SPSS Statistics 26.
Results. As a result of the study, three clusters of subjects were identified, which differ in the dynamics of the latency of the wEP waves under the influence of the speleoclimate. It has been established that this dynamics depends on the initial parameters of the wEP waves. The performed discriminant analysis made it possible to obtain three prognostic models for the probability of a decrease in the latency of the N2, P1, P2 of wEP waves to a flash on the left under the influence of speleotherapy, depending on the initial durations of the wEP waves. The sensitivity of the models is from 84,6-92,9%, the specificity is 93,8-95%.
Conclusion. The obtained data can be used for personalized selection of an algorithm for preventive measures using speleotherapy.
EVALUATION OF THE CONTENT OF MACRO- AND MICROELEMENTS IN THE LEAVES OF GARDEN STRAWBERRY (FRAGARIA ANANASSA DUCH.) UNDER DIFFERENT MINERAL NUTRITION SYSTEMS
Authors: Kotelnikova Anna D. , Shishkin Mikhail A. , Bamatov Ibragim M.
Published: February 2025

The use of mineral fertilizers is a necessary practice that contributes to realizing the yield potential of crops. However, the efficiency of nutrient utilization by plants remains low, which can lead to non-productive losses and negative environmental consequences. One of the possible solutions is the use of fertilizers of prolonged action, including modern Russian developments in the field of polymer-modified fertilizers (PMFs). In this work we evaluated the changes in the content of a number of elements (Ca, P, K, Mg, Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe) in the leaves of strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) cultivars Elizaveta-2, Profusion, Irma under the conditions of different nutrition systems – without fertilizers, with the application of traditional mineral fertilizers, the author's system with the use of PMF (with a polymer content of 5% and 10%) and with the use of a foreign analog of PMF. Strawberry plants were grown under greenhouse conditions, and leaf samples were taken at three vegetative stages – the stage of formation of white fruits, the stage of beginning of fruit ripening, and the stage of ripe fruits. Elemental analysis of the leaves was performed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Differences between strawberry cultivars and between nutrition systems for plants of the same cultivar were found.  At the same time, according to the results of the evaluation of the changes in the content of a number of macro- and microelements in the leaves of strawberry plants at different stages of vegetation under different nutrition systems, no striking regularities were observed that would be characteristic of each variety used in the experiment. However, the increase in the content of Ca, Mg, Cu and Fe observed in a number of cases when using the author's nutrition system may indicate the improvement in the conditions for the uptake of these nutritional elements when using PMF.
Funding. This work was supported by Russian Science Foundation grant No. 22-16-00092.