Development Issues Research Articles

Special Issue “Zebrafish: A Model Organism for Human Health and Disease”

In 1996, a special zebrafish (Danio rerio) issue of the journal Development, with a 481-page volume containing 37 papers from four different laboratories, published genetic and phenotypic details of hundreds of different mutants, obtained through chemical mutagenesis screening [...]

Linking Dietary Patterns to Autism Severity and Developmental Outcomes: A Correlational Study Using Food Frequency Questionnaires; The Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition; And Developmental Profile 3

Background/Objectives: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by social communication challenges and repetitive behaviors. Children with ASD often exhibit selective eating habits that may result in nutritional deficiencies and exacerbate developmental issues. While food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) are effective for dietary assessment, the links between food preferences, ASD severity, and developmental outcomes remain underexplored, particularly in Bulgaria. This study examines these relationships using validated tools. Methods: The present report constitutes a pilot, hypothesis-generating substudy of the broader NutriLect project. This substudy involved 49 children aged 2–12 years diagnosed with ASD. Dietary patterns were evaluated with a modified FFQ, while ASD severity and developmental profiles were assessed using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition (CARS-2) and the Developmental Profile 3 (DP-3). Results: Among 49 ASD children (mean age = 6.89 ± 2.15 years; 86% boys), 73.4% consumed grains/potatoes daily. Only 34.7% met combined fruit and vegetable recommendations. Only 36.7% met the recommendation for daily milk or other dairy product consumption. Fish was consumed at least twice weekly by only 22,4%. Furthermore, children with more severe autism were approximately 9.4 times more likely to consume grains daily (χ2 = 14.319, p = 0.006). Logistic regression analyses indicated that higher cognitive scores were strongly associated with lower grain (OR ≈ 0.044) and other dairy products consumption (OR ≈ 0.337), yet with greater fish intake (OR ≈ 3.317). In contrast, better communication skills corresponded to increased milk consumption (OR ≈ 5.76), and higher physical development scores predicted more frequent egg consumption (OR ≈ 4.40). Conclusions: The pronounced preference for grain and meat products, which are frequently ultra-processed, and avoidance of nutrient-dense foods in children with severe ASD symptoms underscore the need for tailored dietary interventions. These interventions must address sensory sensitivities, nutritional inadequacies, and the risks that selective nutrition can have on the nutritional status and development of the children.

Специфика кадастровой деятельности в сфере автомобильных дорог на территории новых субъектов Российской Федерации

The article presents the results of research into the practice of cadastral activity in the road sector in the territory of new subjects of the country. Existing and planned for construction highway networks play a crucial role in the development of any modern state. For the Russian Federation, which occupies the first place in the world in terms of length, the issue of development of the road sector is of particular importance and the issues concerning it are always on the agenda. More and more attention should be paid to the road sector due to the expansion of the borders of the Russian Federation, due to the annexation of new territories. This event entailed the reconstruction of old road network facilities, their accounting in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation, as well as the construction of new roadways. The development, maintenance and quality service of the road network increases the safety of traffic on the highway, reducing the risk of road accidents, providing lower costs for the restoration of damaged infrastructure, reducing the percentage of mortality as a result of accidents, also, provides a minimum number of traffic jams and congestion on the way, reduces travel time. Creation of a correct, in terms of normative parameters, transportation and logistics framework in new regions can improve the standard of living of citizens, increase the carrying capacity and ensure the connection of new regions with the main part of the Russian Federation. The article considers the adaptation of the system of cadastral registration of real estate objects and the principle of cadastral activity in new territories. It also analyzes the theoretical legislation in force on the territory of the country and individual regulatory legal acts of the new subjects and their practical application.

Drosha: a new tumor suppressor in pineoblastoma.

To investigate the pathogenesis and target the vulnerability of human pineoblastoma, researchers have developed multiple genetically engineered mouse models that represent distinct molecular subtypes of the disease. In this issue of Genes & Development, Fraire and colleagues (doi:10.1101/gad.352485.124) examined the roles of key microRNA (miRNA) processing components Drosha and Dicer1. Loss of either Drosha or Dicer1 partially mimicked the tumorigenic effects of Rb1 deletion by promoting cell cycle progression through the derepression of Plagl2 and cyclin D2. This work reveals a novel mechanism of pineoblastoma development driven by disrupted miRNA processing and highlights a potential therapeutic strategy targeting downstream proliferative drivers.

Problems of Ensuring Balanced Socio-Economic Development of Regions Under Sanctions

The purpose of the study is to identify and analyze problems and develop recommendations to ensure a balance of social, economic, budgetary, credit and other aspects of the integrated development of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation under sanctions. The relevance of the study is due to the need to resolve issues of a rational relationship between ensuring social stability in society and the dynamism of investment and technological renewal of the territory’s economy as the basis for its sustainable long-term development in the current conditions of sanctions pressure from unfriendly countries on the economy of Russia and its regions. In accordance with the results obtained of this study, the following conclusions were formulated: 1) based on the results of a review of scientific publications of domestic and foreign authors on the issues of balanced development of territories, the differences and interrelationships between balanced and sustainable development were highlighted, and the use of an approach to assessing balance based on criteria of economic security was justified; 2) a system of 26 indicators of economic security is proposed, characterizing the development of constituent entities of the Russian Federation in terms of social, economic, innovative and environmental components. Based on the use of methods of statistical analysis, standardization, spectrum-score and expert methods, an assessment and grouping of the regions of the Volga Federal District was carried out according to the level of balance, which made it possible to identify the presence of significant heterogeneity when comparing individual components of development and their distinctive features (problem areas) in different periods (pre-pandemic, pandemic, post-pandemic, sanctions); 3) based on the results of the study, the main problems of balanced regional development were identified and recommendations were proposed to improve it based on the principle of complementarity (mutual complementarity) of components as the basis for ensuring sustainable socio-economic development of territories and improving the quality of life of the population.

Faktor Determinan Pengangguran di Indonesia: Apakah Program Kartu Prakerja Menjadi Katalisator Penurunan Pengangguran?

Unemployment remains a major issue in Indonesia's development, especially among vocational education graduates. This study examines the effect of the Pre-Employment Card Program in reducing the unemployment rate. This study uses data from the 2023 National Labor Force Survey (Sakernas) with logistic regression model analysis. The number of samples used was 1,481, consisting of 201 unemployed groups and 1,280 employed groups. Results show that apprenticeship experience and vocational education background significantly reduce the risk of unemployment, while the Pre-Employment card program and certified training show no significant impact. Higher education and income are negatively correlated with unemployment, while women are more at risk of unemployment. The findings emphasize the importance of practical experience and vocational education strategies that match labor market needs. This study provides insights for labor policies in developing countries.

ESG Ratings and Corporate Total Factor Productivity: A Perspective on Technological Innovation and Efficiency Improvement

In recent years, with the increasing public attention to environmental and sustainable development issues, green development has become a key driver of high-quality economic growth. Based on data from Chinas Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2019, this study employs a two-way fixed effects model to empirically investigate the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings on firms' total factor productivity (TFP) . The results show that ESG ratings significantly promote TFP, and the conclusion holds after multiple robustness tests. Mechanism analysis reveals that ESG ratings promote TFP through firms' technological innovation and improve efficiency. Further analysis shows that two control zones and perception of economic policy uncertainty have significant positive impacts on ESG ratings. However, the presence of dual-role positions in corporate governance structures inhibits the effect of ESG ratings. This study provides policy recommendations for the environmental external supervision system to promote high-quality corporate development.

Upaya Pembebasan Hak Atas Tanah di Pasar Pagi Samarinda: Tinjauan Hukum Berdasarkan UU No. 2 Tahun 2012

The acquisition of land rights is a crucial issue in public infrastructure development in Indonesia, including in Samarinda City, where the revitalization project of Pasar Pagi requires the acquisition of land with ownership certificates. This study aims to analyze the efforts of the Samarinda City Government in acquiring land rights and the obstacles faced in the process. Employing an empirical juridical method with a qualitative approach, this research involves interviews with landowners and related institutions. The findings indicate that the government's efforts in land acquisition are not optimal, with the main obstacles being the rejection of landowners regarding compensation deemed insufficient and the lack of community involvement in planning. Therefore, the Samarinda City Government needs to enhance communication and transparency in the land acquisition process to achieve mutually beneficial agreements.

The impact of maternal health and prenatal care on childhood disabilities: A systematic review

This systematic review examines the impact of maternal health and prenatal care on childhood disabilities, with a particular focus on the effects of opioid, alcohol, and drug use during pregnancy. Maternal health during pregnancy plays a crucial role in fetal development, and poor prenatal care or substance use can lead to a range of childhood disabilities. The review explores how maternal opioid use during pregnancy, including prescription painkillers and illicit opioids, leads to Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and long-term developmental delays in children, such as cognitive impairments, attention deficits, and motor development issues. It also delves into the harmful effects of alcohol consumption, particularly in the form of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which cause a spectrum of disabilities, including physical malformations, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral challenges. In addition, the review discusses the impact of illicit drug use, such as marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamines, on child development, highlighting an increased risk of low birth weight, congenital defects, and long-term neurological and behavioral issues, including learning disabilities and attention disorders. The review emphasizes the critical role of early and consistent prenatal care in mitigating these risks. Prenatal care can help identify maternal health issues and substance use early, allowing for appropriate interventions and the prevention of adverse outcomes. The review also discusses the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies to support mothers who struggle with substance use, including medication-assisted treatments for opioid use and behavioral therapies for alcohol and drug dependencies. Ultimately, this review underscores the necessity for better public health policies, more accessible prenatal care, and targeted interventions to reduce the incidence of childhood disabilities linked to maternal health factors, particularly substance use during pregnancy. Keywords: Maternal Health, Prenatal Care, Childhood Disabilities, Systematic Review.

High spatio-temporal resolution dynamic water monitoring using multi-source Chinese Gaofen imagery: a case study in the Eastern Nile Basin

The East Nile Basin (ENB) is a major water source for several African countries, and the supply, distribution, and management of water resources in the basin are directly related to the survival and development of millions of people. However, most of the basin falls within arid or semi-arid regions, and the uneven distribution of water resources severely limits the development of the countries within the basin. Achieving accurate monitoring and effective management of water resources has become a critical issue for sustainable development in this region. A robust adaptive threshold method considering boundary optimization was proposed to accurately extract water body information from GF-1and GF-6 WFV imagery. The study analyzed the spatio-temporal dynamic changes of six key lakes in basin countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan from 2019 to 2024. The findings were as follows: (1) The proposed water extraction method effectively addressed the issue of uneven spectral index gradients, with an overall accuracy of over 97.67% and a Kappa value exceeding 95.24%. It was able to accurately and efficiently extract lakes in arid regions. (2) High spatiotemporal resolution monitoring revealed the variation patterns of the lakes. The interannual changes of Tana, Roseires, Merowe, and Nasser were not significant, with notable seasonal variations, the low-water-level period occurring in July and the high-water-level period in September or October. For GERD and Toshka, the interannual variation was large, with each increase occurring between July and October. (3) The variation in lake areas was primarily attributed to precipitation in the upstream Blue Nile, artificial water storage by dams, and other factors. Tana was mainly affected by precipitation, while GERD’s changes were primarily related to precipitation and its own water storage, Roseires, Merowe, and Nasser, as artificial reservoirs, were influenced by their own water storage and the storage in upstream reservoirs, while Toshka’s changes were related to overflow from Nasser’s high water levels. The current research findings could provide scientific guidance for water resources assessment and management in the ENB.

Esketamine ameliorates prenatal stress-induced postpartum depression and sex-related behavioral differences in adolescent progeny.

Esketamine ameliorates prenatal stress-induced postpartum depression and sex-related behavioral differences in adolescent progeny.

Assessment of Soil Science in European Higher Education to Meet Growing Soil Awareness Needs

ABSTRACTHumanity is facing a number of global challenges coupling soils and essential ecosystems, biodiversity, food production, and climate change. Hence, knowledge and expertise in soil science and soil management are increasingly needed to address these issues for sustainability and development. Soil science in higher education (HE) will be one essential vehicle to provide a new generation with skills and expertise. The aim of this study was to assess the current state of soil science in European higher education by assessing the existing degrees offered, teaching and learning approaches (TLAs) used, and exploring collaborations in internationalisation among higher education institutions (HEIs) in Europe. A survey was conducted in 2020–2021 and 94 responses were received from HEIs teaching soil science in 25 European countries. Results showed that only 16% of HEIs hosted a dedicated soil science department. In most cases, soil science was embedded in departments with other academic topics, mainly environmental sciences and agronomy. Full degree programs in soil science were offered in 28% (BSc), 37% (MSc) and 37% (PhD) of the HEIs (N = 75). Regarding internationalisation of HEIs, only 6% responded that they had international joint programs in place at all levels of education. Twenty‐five HEIs (37%) expressed aspirations to establish international programs while 24 (35%) saw no need for joint programs. The top three priorities among the HEIs were to attract students from abroad, develop strategic research partnerships, and provide more opportunities to send students abroad. Traditional lectures dominated TLAs in most soil science courses, especially at BSc level, where 40% of the HEIs responded that more than half of a soil course is delivered as lectures. Several respondents claimed curricula had not changed significantly in the last 5 years. Computer/modelling was either not included or included as a small share in teaching according to 96% (BSc) and 98% (MSc) of the HEIs. We conclude based on the sample, soil science at European HEIs appears conservative, but with scope to strengthen to deliver better soil science expertise for the future. More diverse TLAs and updated teaching materials are needed to provide the next generation of experts with the skills needed to address local and global sustainability challenges related to soils.

Characteristics of Young Adults Admitted to Intensive Care Units at an Academic Health System.

Young adults in intensive care units (ICUs) are a subgroup of patients who have not been adequately studied. Their health and developmental issues differ from those of children and older adults, but little is known about their specific critical care needs. To describe the characteristics of a cohort of young adults (18 to 39 years of age) receiving care in specialty ICUs, examine differences in this population before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore associations among clinical and demographic variables and advance directives. Analysis of a deidentified data set of 3401 young adults who were admitted to ICUs at one academic health system from 2018 through 2021. The mean age of the young adult group was 29.7 years (SD, 6.0 years). A disproportionately higher number were male and Black compared with the catchment area and older adult groups. Most of the young adults were single with commercial or government health insurance. One-third had diagnoses of injury, poisonings, and trauma; other common diagnoses were infections and endocrine, circulatory, and digestive disorders. The patients' mortality rate was 6.6%, and more than 70% were eventually discharged to home. One-third had an advance directive. Over the COVID-19 pandemic years, there was a trend toward more Black young adults in the ICU and increased severity of illness and mortality rate. Most young adults survived their ICU admission and were eventually discharged to home, highlighting needs for research into posthospitalization support.

Nutritional Status of Children under Five Years in the Tharu Community

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in shaping every individual's cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains. One of the most important markers of one's general health is one's nutritional status. The most active stage of a child's growth occurs during school age. Kinds of literature shows that childhood malnutrition is one of the main reasons why child mortality rates are greater in developing countries. People's quality of life is negatively impacted by chronic malnutrition in children, which has been associated with delayed cognitive development and serious health issues later in life. It is thought that the Tharu community faces social and economic disadvantages. Therefore, the goal of this study is to assess the nutritional status of children under five in Nepal’s Dang District within the Tharu community. It employed a quantitative research design involving 200 randomly selected households. Each household contributed one child for anthropometric evaluations, while mothers provided data on their children’s food habits. The findings revealed important levels of underweight and low BMI, alongside average or overweight rates, indicating poor nutritional status among the children. Policymakers and healthcare professionals can use this research as a valuable reference to enhance maternal and child health outcomes in Nepal.

On the effectiveness of the national system for combating the legitimization of proceeds of crime and terrorism financing, and its technical compliance with the FATF recommendations

Subject. This article discusses the issues of development of the National System of the Russian Federation for combating laundering of proceeds of crime and the financing of terrorism. Objectives. The article aims to assess the effectiveness of the national anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing system and its technical compliance with the FATF recommendations. Methods. For the study, I used analysis, synthesis, comparison, and graphic methods. Results. Based on the analysis of the effectiveness of the National System of the Russian Federation of combating money laundering and terrorist financing, the article proposes the author-developed approach to the graphical presentation of the consolidated ratings of countries published by FATF, which helps percept assessment results in a comprehensive way. Conclusions and Relevance. Focusing on the best international practices taking into account the structural features of Russia's economy and financial system, transition to the digital ruble and application by all subjects of the national anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing system of the results of the national money laundering risk assessment will contribute to the stability of Russia's financial and economic systems in the context of the geopolitical crisis. The results obtained can be used by the participants of the national system of anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism in order to improve its efficiency and ensure technical compliance with the FATF recommendations.

Conceptual framework of the quality of railway services provided to consumers: Evidence from the Siberian Federal District

Subject. This article discusses the issues of development of the transport system of Russia and improvement of the quality of life of the population in the regions of the country. Objectives. The article aims to analyze the changes in railway services in the Siberian Federal District. Methods. For the study, we used a morphological analysis. Results. The article finds that due to the lack of alternative communication routes in the Siberian Federal District, still there is a demand for passenger railway services. Trends in investment in the development of the transport infrastructure are negative, so this is one of the reasons for the economic inequality of the regions. Conclusions. The level of quality of services for the transportation of passengers and goods by rail depends on the socioeconomic situation in the country in general.

Research on Crop Planting Scheme in North China Based on Agricultural Production Efficiency Model

This paper addresses the key issues in agricultural economic development within the context of the rural revitalization strategy in North China, proposing an agricultural production efficiency model aimed at maximizing economic benefits through optimized planting strategies. The article reviews the shortcomings of existing research, poses three research questions, and builds a model based on these questions. By introducing Monte Carlo simulation and the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm, it resolves the uncertainties in agricultural production. Utilizing data preprocessing and visualization techniques, an optimal planting plan for the period from 2024 to 2030 is formulated. The research results demonstrate that the proposed model effectively copes with the uncertainties in production, providing a scientific basis for the sustainable development of agricultural economies in the mountainous areas of North China, while also offering important references and guidance for the implementation of the rural revitalization strategy in the region.

БИРСКИЙ УЧИТЕЛЬСКИЙ ИНСТИТУТ (1939-1952 ГГ.) В ОТЕЧЕСТВЕННОЙ ИСТОРИОГРАФИИ

This article is devoted to the current issues of development of domestic historiography of Birsk Teachers' Institute (BUI) as a higher pedagogical education in the USSR in the middle of the 20th century. The authors of the article considered all aspects of studying the formation and development of the Birsk university in 1939-1952 by domestic historians. The article notes that during the Soviet period, information about the history of BUI was pub-lished extremely rarely and was of a reference nature. At the beginning of the 21st century, the history of BUI be-gan to be studied from a professional point of view. The pioneer of the study of the topic was the reference manual by Yu. N. Sergeyev "Birsk Teachers' Institute: structural divisions and teaching staff (1939-1952)", dedicated to the structural divisions and teaching staff of BUI. The main role in creating a complete picture of the history of the initial stage of the history of BUI is played by historians-employees of the Birsk university Yu. N. Sergeev, R. R. Khamidullin, A. P. Alexandrov and others. They devote their works to both general aspects of the history of BUI and consider the history of structural divisions. Some of the scientific works are devoted to the pedagogical path of the university staff, and in recent years, to graduates of individual faculties. The role of BUI is noted in a number of candidate dissertations by M.Sh. Shagieva, E.D. Khadimullina. The result can be considered the publication of a monographic study "History of the Development of Higher Pedagogical Education in the City of Birsk (On the 75th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Birsk Teachers' Institute)", in which BUI is considered as an integral part and a special stage in the development of higher pedagogical education in a small town in Bashkortostan.

Climate change and health in Africa: perspectives on effect on malaria and dengue fever

This paper explores the intersection of climate change and African public health, focusing on its impact on vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever. While climate change is increasingly recognized as a critical issue for sustainable development, its effects on health, mainly through the spread of these diseases, remain under-explored. As climate conditions shift, so do disease transmission patterns, creating new challenges for already strained healthcare systems. This paper advocates a more integrated approach to understanding the relationship between climate, society, and health in Africa by reviewing existing literature and databases. It highlights the urgent need for policies that strengthen disease surveillance, improve vector control, build climate-resilient health systems, and support community engagement and research. Addressing these interconnected issues is essential for mitigating the health impacts of climate change, particularly concerning malaria and dengue fever.

Research on the Relationship Between Structural Characteristics of Corporate Social Networks and Risk-Taking Levels: Evidence from China

The complex market environment places unprecedented pressure on business decision-making processes. Effectively utilizing existing social resources to establish risk prevention mechanisms and accurately assess an enterprise’s risk-taking capacity has become a core issue for corporate survival and development. This paper examines 1810 listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A-shares markets from 2010 to 2022, constructing comprehensive social networks based on multiple corporate governance entities. It investigates the influence and transmission mechanisms of corporate social networks on risk-taking levels. The results reveal that (1) enhanced corporate social network centrality, structural holes, and connectivity significantly and positively affect corporate risk-taking levels; (2) information transparency and corporate governance quality serve as important mediating mechanisms through which social networks influence corporate risk-taking; (3) significant heterogeneity exists regarding executives’ backgrounds and industry attributes—specifically, in firms with executives possessing financial backgrounds and in high-tech industry enterprises, network characteristics play a more pronounced role in promoting risk-taking. This research not only enriches the literature on factors influencing enterprise risk-taking but also provides theoretical foundations and practical insights for improving corporate risk management capabilities through optimized social network structures.