bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological and sanitary safety of water supply sources of the Kyrgyz Republic
Authors: Karimov Tashmuhamed Khalmukhamedovich , Baigazy Kyzy Nazira , Karimova Malika Tashmukhamedovna
Published: May 2024

This article addresses the issue of environmental safety as well as the quality of drinking water and wastewater treatment. The problem of supplying clean water and sewage of settlements and cities of the Kyrgyz Republic is raised. Anthropogenic pollution of natural waters. Inadequate wastewater treatment and unsatisfactory condition of sewage treatment plants. This state of affairs in the water supply and sanitation system of the Kyrgyz Republic requires the development and implementation of new advanced technologies for the treatment of natural and waste waters. Also, the results of this article are aimed at the relevance of scientific research in the treatment of natural and wastewater in the Kyrgyz Republic. Creation and development of innovative technologies, optimization of pumps and pumping units in order to save energy, water treatment, wastewater and collector-drainage water treatment, creation of closed water use systems
Prospects for the use of cryptocurrencies in international maritime logistics
Authors: Gapurbaeva Shakhnos , Abdyldaeva Umut , Tulemysheva Bermet , Israilova Aida , Elenova Tolgonai
Published: May 2024

This article analyzes the trends in the development of cryptocurrencies and considers the main trends in their use in international water logistics. The use of cryptocurrencies in recent years has become one of the responses to the opportunities and challenges of the modern global economy, as nowadays the global digitalization being introduced everywhere affects the development of almost all spheres of the economy. As a result of digitalization, new markets, forms of communication, goods and services have emerged. Active digitalization has led to the formation of a digital profile of a person, the requests of participants in the global economy to form alternative savings instruments, not correlated with the dynamics of traditional financial markets, new money equivalents that meet the current requirements of the digital economy and are more independent of the actions of the issuing countries. The emergence of cryptocurrencies was an attempt at a technological response to the emerging problems and challenges. The main purpose of this study is to study the role and prospects of using cryptocurrencies in modern international water logistics.
Relationship between Demographic Potential Indicators and Climatic Aspects of Water Stress
Authors: Mukambaev Nurbek J. , Mukambaeva Irina B. , Akylbekova Nelli I. , Dzhenalieva Mariia A. , Imakeeva Alla E. , Maldybaeva Akiyan A.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine the characteristics of demographic potential, its relationship with demographic security, as well as to analyze the influence, including environmental processes on the components of demographic potential. The work methodically substantiates the selection of indicators for calculating demographic potential and demographic security. In accordance with this, integrated indices of demographic potential were calculated for the EAEU countries. In general, the demographic potential for the EAEU countries according to their indices can be assessed as follows: 1. Kazakhstan (5.75); 2. Kyrgyzstan (5.51); 3. Belarus (5.07); 4. Armenia (4.86). 5. Russian Federation (4.06). The analysis showed that each country has the potential for its further development by improving the indicators included in the integral index. As a result, the presented methodological approaches made it possible to calculate integral indices to determine the position of each EAEU country in terms of demographic potential, determine the indicator of demographic security in Kyrgyzstan, and link the processes of external migration from Kyrgyzstan with the shortage of water resources in the country. The methodology we presented for determining the state of demographic potential and demographic security allows us to carry out calculations of this phenomenon for any country.
Models for university sustainable development: Overview of international practices
Authors: Dziedik Valentin , Fadeeva Marina
Published: May 2024

This study focuses on the components of university sustainable development in the way of achieving global competitiveness of the national higher education system. The coordinating role of the university in promoting the principles of sustainable development is due to both its transforming agency as a subject of economic relations and complex activities within the framework of the implementation of the “third mission” in the region. International experience in the development of sustainable development indicators is based on an integrative approach in which subsystems of indicators including economic, environmental, social and institutional ones are distinguished within the framework of a common system. These indicators form the basis of international university ranking systems. The purpose of this study is to analyze the models of sustainable development of participating universities out of the Top 500 global rankings by comparing and systematizing ESG components. The existing classification of sustainable development models is updated by the authors. The concept of “sustainability” is characterized, a description of typical models of sustainable development underlying the activities of Russian and foreign leading universities is presented
Evaluation of the state of the civil engineering structures in the province of Fes-Moulay Yacoub-Morocco
Authors: Naaza Chaymae , El Barkany Abdellah , Elabassi Ikram
Published: May 2024

The management οf an engineering structures heritage is based οn mοnitοring, maintenance and repair. The detailed inspectiοn οf engineering structures is an impοrtant element οf asset management. Its adaptatiοn tο the specificities οf the assets play a majοr rοle in the effectiveness οf the management pοlicies. Indeed, the detailed inspectiοn οf a wοrk οf art cοntributes, thrοugh the visual assessment οf its cοnditiοn, tο defining and planning preventive maintenance οperatiοns and, where applicable, specific and special mοnitοring, cοmplementary investigatiοns οr additiοnal repairs. The detailed inspectiοn shall include a review οf the literature, visual surveys and measurements. The analysis οf all these elements cοnducts, οn οne hand, tο a lοgical evaluatiοn οf the present situatiοn οf the engineering structures and, οn the οther hand, tο prοpοsal fοr actiοns tο be taken in terms οf: user safety, maintenance: rοutine and specialized maintenance, additiοnal investigatiοns (geοmetric measurements, static and dynamic instrumentatiοn, material dynamic instrumentatiοn, sampling and analysis οf materials, mοdeling, recalculatiοns...), repairs, specific mοnitοring actiοns (reinfοrced mοnitοring, high surveillance); At the end οf this in-depth inspectiοn, twο cases may be presented:

- The causes οf the defects and the cοrrective actiοns tο be undertaken are clearly identified withοut the need fοr additiοnal investigatiοns; in this case, the detailed inspectiοn actually cοnstitutes a diagnοsis.

- In οther cases, the detailed inspectiοn represents a pre-diagnοsis. Carrying οut additiοnal diagnοstics, investigatiοns, implementing specific mοnitοring actiοns and develοping prοgrams are part οf the prοcess. These studies, which may be suggested after detailed inspectiοns, generally require different skills than thοse required fοr detailed inspectiοns.

The οbjective οf this article is tο demοnstrate the stages οf the inspectiοn missiοn carried οut οn the heritage οf wοrks οf art in the wilaya οf Mοulay Yacοub.
Identification of fish irradiation by EPR spectrometry: Signal intensity and stability
Authors: Medzhidov Ibragim , Vasileva Nailya , Polyakova Irina , Sanzharova Natalya
Published: May 2024

In this work, the application of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy for assessing the irradiation of fish is described. Pink salmon was chosen as the research object and irradiated at 3 and 6 kGy doses. A linear correlation was observed between the increase in EPR signal intensity and the radiation dose. It was demonstrated that the fish used in this study had previously been irradiated by the supplier for microbiological sterilization. To assess the signal decay kinetics, repeat spectroscopy of samples was conducted over the course of a year after irradiation. A decrease in EPR signal intensity is observed initially after irradiation, attributed to the decay of short-lived radicals. The results indicate that EPR spectroscopy is an accurate and sensitive way to determine whether fish has been irradiated.
Increasing efficiency of induction motor by predictive control system
Authors: Olimov Jasurjon , Ramazonov Bahodir , Sayfiyev Shaxzodbek
Published: May 2024

Standard squirrel-cage induction machine is widely used in industrial enterprises due to its advantages in terms of reliability, durability and economic efficiency. However, one of its disadvantages is that it suffers from a power dissipation factor due to its inability to balance active and reactive power consumption. Especially when the SCIM is running at no load condition or during the initial start-up, the power factor or useful operation and performance are drastically reduced. Therefore, improving the power factor of the induction machine is an actual topic for the following article, and has had some interesting solutions for several years. In this thesis, two different induction motor control algorithms (frequency converter and Predictive torque control) are included and a clear comparison between them is given. The main focus of this article is to design an induction motor control system using the two algorithms mentioned above, analyse the performance of different control methods, and experimentally verify these algorithms by comparing simulations and experimental results.
Study of subharmonic oscillation processes in ferroresonance circuits
Authors: Tovbaev Akram , Ibadullayev Muxtarxan , Davronova Mohinur
Published: May 2024

The article presents a general theory of the analysis of subharmonic oscillations at a frequency of 25 Hz in three-phase Ferro resonance circuits with common magnetic conductors. The abbreviated equations are obtained by averaging with the corresponding phases. From the condition of the existence of a periodic solution, the phase and amplitude ratios of the excited oscillations are determined, which differ from threephase circuits with a separate ferromagnetic element. In steady-state mode, the excitation conditions and the area of existence are determined depending on the parameters of the circuit, the bias current and the applied action. The stability of the solution of the initial system of nonlinear second-order differential equations is also studied by analysing the roots of the characteristic equation using a qualitative method. In the theory of nonlinear electrical circuits, the analysis of the physical processes occurring in threephase Ferro resonance circuits during the excitation of second-order subharmonic oscillations is of particular importance in the design and creation of various converter devices.
Analysis of patterns in the formation of phase composition during thermal and thermocyclic treatment of maraging steel
Authors: Juraeva Malokhat , Voroshilova Anna , Yarashov Shokhrukh , Juraev Toyir , Shodiev Sadir
Published: May 2024

The paper studies changes in the phase composition of typical maraging steel. The analysis performed made it possible to determine the amount of retained austenite depending on the modes of thermal and thermocyclic treatment with heating in the temperature range of α-γ transformation. The processes occurring during heating in the region of α-γ transformation are divided into two temperature regions. As a result, it is noted that the identified patterns in the formation of the phase composition during thermal and thermocyclic treatment with the temperature range of α-γ transformation make it possible to both control changes in the phase composition and properties of steel and predict these changes.
Leather squeezing efficiency analysis
Authors: Hurramov Shukhrat , Bektoshev Kuvondar , Buriev Eshmurod , Kurbanova Nigora
Published: May 2024

This paper presents the results of an efficiency analysis on the pressing of leather after dyeing, determined by the residual moisture content of the leather. The study establishes the law of changes in humidity during the leather pressing process. It was found that as the thickness and initial moisture content of the skin decreases, its final moisture content also decreases. An analytical dependence of the residual moisture content of the skin has been derived, which can be used to determine rational parameters for squeezing machines. The results show that reducing the skin thickness and increasing the roller radius lead to a decrease in the residual moisture content of the leather.
Concept for long-term geo-monitoring of the post-mining environment using the example of the Prosper-Haniel mine
Authors: Pawlik Marcin , Rudolph Tobias
Published: May 2024

The operation of a mining facility provides a wealth of data, starting from mining licenses, documentation of extracted deposits, tunnel reinforcement methods, to documentation regarding the termination of mining operations, which impacts the natural environment at the local, regional, and supra-regional levels. The results of projects conducted by the Research Center of Post-Mining at the Technical University of Georg Agricola in Bochum present the possibilities of integrating environmental geo-monitoring methods to understand the processes occurring both during and after mining operations. Among the research methods used, spatiotemporal multispectral analyses of satellite imagery and images from drone flights stand out, and these will be presented in this paper. Additionally, in-situ measurements using soil sensors, weather stations, the application of mobile GIS, and three-dimensional modelling of geological structures should be noted. A key aspect of mining process research is the implementation and integration of all available geospatial data, allowing the consideration of post-mining processes as a cycle of interconnected, independent values that, through data analysis and validation, enable a comprehensive understanding.
Le biofilm : un impact sur la santé animale
Authors: Jégou Laura , Héliez Sylvie
Published: May 2024

Le biofilm consomme une fraction du chlore libre résiduel à sa surface et protège ainsi les bactéries le constituant. Il retient également des nutriments qui, à terme, altèrent la qualité microbiologique et engendre le bouchage des canalisations ou des pipettes. Pour éviter les développements des biofilms, des traitements de l’eau existent, mais des nettoyages réguliers des canalisations sont également recommandés particulièrement quand les bâtiments sont inoccupés ou après un traitement par l’eau de boisson. Avant même de traiter le biofilm, il reste indispensable d’en connaître les différents facteurs favorisants afin d’identifier la fréquence de nettoyage des canalisations.
A needle in a haystack? The impact of a targeted epilepsy gene panel in the identification of a treatable but rapidly progressive metabolic epilepsy: CLN2 disease
Authors: Lourenço Charles Marques , Sallum Juliana Maria Ferraz , Pereira Alessandra Marques , Girotto Paula Natale , Kok Fernando , Vilela Daniel Reda Fenga , Barron Erika , Pessoa André , Oliveira Bibiana Mello de
Published: May 2024

Background Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCL) are a group of autosomal recessive, inherited, lysosomal, and neurodegenerative diseases that causes progressive dementia, seizures, movement disorders, language delay/regression, progressive visual failure, and early death. Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis type 2 (CLN2), caused by biallelic pathogenic variants of the TPP1 gene, is the only NCL with an approved targeted therapy. The laboratory diagnosis of CLN2 is established through highly specific tests, leading to diagnostic delays and eventually hampering the provision of specific treatment for patients with CLN2. Epilepsy is a common and clinically-identifiable feature among NCLs, and seizure onset is the main driver for families to seek medical care.

Objective To evaluate the results of the Latin America Epilepsy and Genetics Program, an epilepsy gene panel, as a comprehensive tool for the investigation of CLN2 among other genetic causes of epilepsy.

Methods A total of 1,284 patients with epilepsy without a specific cause who had at least 1 symptom associated with CLN2 were screened for variants in 160 genes associated with epilepsy or metabolic disorders presenting with epilepsy through an epilepsy gene panel.

Results Variants of the TPP1 gene were identified in 25 individuals (1.9%), 21 of them with 2 variants. The 2 most frequently reported variants were p.Arg208* and p.Asp276Val, and 2 novel variants were detected in the present study: p.Leu308Pro and c.89 + 3G > C Intron 2.

Conclusion The results suggest that these genetic panels can be very useful tools to confirm or exclude CLN2 diagnosis and, if confirmed, provide disease-specific treatment for the patients.
Forging the medieval on Wikipedia
Authors: Allfrey Fran , Moore Lucy , Nevell Richard
Published: May 2024

Wikipedia is a major source for public information. Wikipedia materials are proliferated across the Internet of Things, are reused in journalism and social media, and power search engines and digital assistants (Ribeiro et al. 2021; Miz et al. 2020). Yet Wikipedia’s impact on public understanding of the past, particularly our medieval pasts, is under-researched. This article argues for the significance of Wikipedia for medievalists in terms of how it may shape research, pedagogy, and public-facing work. We examine three case studies—articles for the ‘Black Death,’ the ‘Viking Age,’ and ‘Old English literature’—to explore how the medieval is forged, defined by us as crafted and created, ‘on-Wiki.’ We discuss what these forgings suggest about public understanding, desires, and interests, and the ideas about the past that emerge as a result. Our case studies demonstrate varied approaches to Wiki content, including citation review, readings of version histories, and pageview analysis. It is intended that this article provokes further discussion of Wikipedia as a site of medieval public history and inspires our colleagues to engage as critics, editors, teachers, or activists.
A critical examination of environmental public interest litigation in China - reflection on China’s environmental authoritarianism
Authors: Li Xin , Song Zongyue
Published: May 2024

Environmental public interest litigation is an innovative legal mechanism for humanity to address environmental crises. It not only addresses the tragedy of the commons in environmental crises but also serves as a crucial means for protecting the rights of environmentally vulnerable groups and upholding environmental justice. Over the past decade, the development of China’s environmental public interest litigation system has been promising. Thousands of such cases are filed each year, making a significant contribution to curbing the further deterioration of China’s environmental crisis. However, China still does not allow individual citizens to initiate environmental public interest litigation, and there are significant hurdles for environmental NGOs to file such lawsuits. As a result, the vast majority of environmental public interest litigation cases in China are initiated by procuratorates, which appears to be another important manifestation of China’s environmental authoritarianism. This institutional setup severely restricts the ability of China’s environmental vulnerable groups to protect their rights and masks many environmental issues that truly need improvement, hindering the realization of environmental justice. From a comparative perspective, compared to countries like the United States with more mature experiences in environmental public interest litigation, China’s system suffers from narrow subject qualifications, extensive restrictions on environmental NGOs, and excessive litigation costs. Even compared to India, another developing country, China’s environmental public interest litigation system appears conservative. Therefore, China’s environmental public interest litigation system urgently needs further reform and improvement.
Morpho-physiological adaptations to weed competition impair green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) ability to overcome moderate salt stress
Authors: Cirillo Valerio , Esposito Marco , Lentini Matteo , Russo Claudio , Pollaro Nausicaa , Maggio Albino
Published: May 2024

The two stresses of weed competition and salt salinity lead to crop yield losses and decline in the productivity of agricultural land. These constraints threaten the future of food production because weeds are more salt stress tolerant than most crops. Climate change will lead to an increase of soil salinity worldwide, and possibly exacerbate the competition between weeds and crops. This aspect has been scarcely investigated in the context of weed-crop competition. Therefore, we conducted a field experiment on green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) to investigate the combined impact of weed competition and salt stress on key morpho-physiological traits, and crop yield. We demonstrated that soil salinity shifted weed composition toward salt tolerant weed species (Portulaca oleracea and Cynodon dactylon), while it reduced the presence of lower tolerance species. Weed competition activated adaptation responses in green bean such as reduced leaf mass per area and biomass allocation to the stem, unchanged stomatal density and instantaneous water use efficiency, which diverge from those that are typically observed as a consequence of salt stress. The morpho-physiological modifications caused by weeds is attributed to the alterations of light intensity and/or quality, further confirming the pivotal role of the light in crop response to weeds. We concluded that higher yield loss caused by combined salt stress and weed competition is due to impaired morpho-physiological responses, which highlights the negative interaction between salt stress and weed competition. This phenomenon will likely be more frequent in the future, and potentially reduce the efficacy of current weed control methods.
Implementing new forms of collaboration and participation in primary health care: leveraging past learnings to inform future initiatives
Authors: Middleton Lesley , O’Loughlin Claire , Tenbensel Tim , Silwal Pushkar , Churchward Marianna , Russell Lynne , Cumming Jacqueline
Published: May 2024

Introduction Within primary health care policy, there is an increasing focus on enhancing involvement with secondary health care, social care services and communities. Yet, translating these expectations into tangible changes frequently encounters significant obstacles. As part of an investigation into the progress made in achieving primary health care reform in Aotearoa New Zealand, realist research was undertaken with those charged with responsibility for national and local policies. The specific analysis in this paper probes primary health care leaders’ assessments of progress towards more collaboration with other health and non-health agencies, and communities. Aim This study aimed to investigate how ideas for more integration and joinedup care have found their way into the practice of primary health care in Aotearoa New Zealand. Methods Applying a realist logic of inquiry, data from semi-structured interviews with primary health care leaders were analysed to identify key contextual characteristics and mechanisms. Explanations were developed of what influenced leaders to invest energy in joined-up and integrated care activities. Results Our findings highlight three explanatory mechanisms and their associated contexts: a willingness to share power, build trusting relationships and manage task complexity. These underpin leaders’ accounts of the success (or otherwise) of collaborative arrangements. Discussion Such insights have import in the context of the current health reforms for stakeholders charged with developing local approaches to the planning and delivery of health services.
Clustering of spermatozoa examined through flow cytometry provides more information than the conventional assessment: a resilience to osmotic stress example
Authors: Valencia Julian , Bonilla-Correal Sebastián , Pinart Elisabeth , Bonet Sergi , Yeste Marc
Published: May 2024

Context Conventional sperm quality tests may not be sufficient to predict the fertilising ability of a given ejaculate; thus, rapid, reliable and sensitive tests are necessary to measure sperm function. Aims This study sought to address whether a cluster analysis approach based on flow cytometry variables could provide more information about sperm function. Methods Spermatozoa were exposed to either isotonic (300 mOsm/kg) or hypotonic (180 mOsm/kg) media for 5 and 20 min, and were then stained with SYBR14 and propidium iodide (PI). Based on flow cytometry dot plots, spermatozoa were classified as either viable (SYBR14+/PI−) or with different degrees of plasma membrane alteration (SYBR14+/PI+ and SYBR14−/PI+). Moreover, individual values of electronic volume (EV), side scattering (SS), green (FL1) and red (FL3) fluorescence were recorded and used to classify sperm cells through cluster analysis. Two strategies of this approach were run. The first one was based on EV and the FL3/FL1 quotient, and the second was based on EV, SS and the FL3/FL1 quotient. Key results The two strategies led to the identification of more than three sperm populations. In the first strategy, EV did not differ between membrane-intact and membrane-damaged sperm, but it was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in spermatozoa losing membrane integrity. In the second strategy, three out of five subpopulations (SP2, SP3 and SP4) showed some degree of alteration in their plasma membrane with significant (P < 0.01) differences in EV. In both cluster analyses, SP5 (intact-membrane spermatozoa) presented the lowest EV. Besides, SP3 and SP4 (Strategy 1) and SP5 (Strategy 2) were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with sperm functional competence. Conclusions Cluster analysis based on flow cytometry variables provides more information about sperm function than conventional assessment does. Implications Combining flow cytometry with cluster analysis is a more robust approach for sperm evaluation.
Matriglycan maintains t-tubule structural integrity in cardiac muscle
Authors: Hord Jeffrey M. , Anderson Mary E. , Prouty Sally J. , Melton Shelly , Gastel Zeita , Zimmerman Kathy , Weiss Robert M. , Campbell Kevin P.
Published: May 2024

Maintaining the structure of cardiac membranes and membrane organelles is essential for heart function. A critical cardiac membrane organelle is the transverse tubule system (called the t-tubule system) which is an invagination of the surface membrane. A unique structural characteristic of the cardiac muscle t-tubule system is the extension of the extracellular matrix (ECM) from the surface membrane into the t-tubule lumen. However, the importance of the ECM extending into the cardiac t-tubule lumen is not well understood. Dystroglycan (DG) is an ECM receptor in the surface membrane of many cells, and it is also expressed in t-tubules in cardiac muscle. Extensive posttranslational processing and
O
-glycosylation are required for DG to bind ECM proteins and the binding is mediated by a glycan structure known as matriglycan. Genetic disruption resulting in defective
O
-glycosylation of DG results in muscular dystrophy with cardiorespiratory pathophysiology. Here, we show that DG is essential for maintaining cardiac t-tubule structural integrity. Mice with defects in
O
-glycosylation of DG developed normal t-tubules but were susceptible to stress-induced t-tubule loss or severing that contributed to cardiac dysfunction and disease progression. Finally, we observed similar stress-induced cardiac t-tubule disruption in a cohort of mice that solely lacked matriglycan. Collectively, our data indicate that DG in t-tubules anchors the luminal ECM to the t-tubule membrane via the polysaccharide matriglycan, which is critical to transmitting structural strength of the ECM to the t-tubules and provides resistance to mechanical stress, ultimately preventing disruptions in cardiac t-tubule integrity.
Effect of gas pre-decomposition device on the growth of GaN epitaxial layer
Authors: Li Yazhou , Yao Weizhen , Ma Zhanhong , Yang Shaoyan , Liu Xianglin , Li Chengming , Wang Zhanguo
Published: May 2024

In previous studies, the influence of gas phase and surface reactions on the growth of GaN was mainly calculated through simulations. In this study, a novel gas pre-decomposition device (GPDD) was designed to experimentally investigate the effects of gas phase and surface reactions on GaN growth by changing the length and height of the isolation plates (IPs). By varying the structure of the GPDD, the effects on the growth rate and thickness uniformity of the GaN films were studied. The growth rate of the GaN sample slowed with the extension of the IPs because the longer partition plates led to insufficient gas mixing and premature consumption of the precursor trimethylgallium (TMG). The use of GPDD simultaneously achieves high crystal quality and smooth surface morphology of the GaN film. Owing to the use of GPDD, the decomposition of TMG in the pyrolysis pathway was promoted, which suppressed Ga vacancies and C impurities, resulting in weak yellow luminescence bands in the photoluminescence. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the chemical reaction mechanism of GaN and plays an important role in promoting the development of metal-organic chemical vapor deposition equipment.
Superconductivity in Nb5Ir3N: a nitrogen-filled electride
Authors: Yang Qing-Song , Ruan Bin-Bin , Zhou Meng-Hu , Gu Ya-Dong , Zhao Kang , Shi Yun-Qing , Yi Jun-Kun , Chen Le-Wei , Ma Ming-Wei , Chen Gen-Fu , Ren Zhi-An
Published: May 2024

The hexagonal Mn5Si3-type compounds possess the capability to accommodate specific atoms in the interstices, thereby creating filled Mn5Si3-type structures. In Nb-based Mn5Si3-type system, interstitial atoms like carbon (C) or oxygen (O) have been identified to induce or enhance superconductivity. However, the compounds filled with nitrogen (N) are scarce, and the existence of a N-filled superconductor remains unknown. Here, we report the discovery of a novel ternary nitride superconductor, Nb5Ir3N, synthesized via incorporating N into the electride Nb5Ir3. The crystal structure of Nb5Ir3N conforms to the filled Mn5Si3-type, belonging to the P63/mcm space group (No. 193), with cell parameters a = b = 7.8398(2) Å and c = 5.1108(1) Å. Electrical resistivity and magnetic susceptibility demonstrate that Nb5Ir3N is a type-II superconductor with a T
c of 8.7 K. The estimated lower and upper critical fields are 11.0 mT and 12.16 T, respectively. Moreover, specific heat measurements confirm the bulk superconductivity with enhanced electron–phonon coupling in Nb5Ir3N, as demonstrated by the normalized specific heat jump ΔC
e/γT
c ∼ 1.59. First-principles calculations emphasize the strong spin–orbit coupling in Nb5Ir3N.
Scanning electrochemical probe microscopy investigation of two-dimensional materials
Authors: Adanigbo Pelumi , Romo-Jimenez Jorge , Zhang Kaidi , Maroo Sonal , Bediako Kwabena , Yu Yun
Published: May 2024

Research interests in two-dimensional (2D) materials have seen exponential growth owing to their unique and fascinating properties. The highly exposed lattice planes coupled with tunable electronic states of 2D materials have created manifold opportunities in the design of new platforms for energy conversion and sensing applications. Still, challenges in understanding the electrochemical (EC) characteristics of these materials arise from the complexity of both intrinsic and extrinsic heterogeneities that can obscure structure–activity correlations. Scanning EC probe microscopic investigations offer unique benefits in disclosing local EC reactivities at the nanoscale level that are otherwise inaccessible with macroscale methods. This review summarizes recent progress in applying techniques of scanning EC microscopy (SECM) and scanning EC cell microscopy (SECCM) to obtain distinctive insights into the fundamentals of 2D electrodes. We showcase the capabilities of EC microscopies in addressing the roles of defects, thickness, environments, strain, phase, stacking, and many other aspects in the heterogeneous electron transfer, ion transport, electrocatalysis, and photoelectrochemistry of representative 2D materials and their derivatives. Perspectives for the advantages, challenges, and future opportunities of scanning EC probe microscopy investigation of 2D structures are discussed.
Are generic dynamical properties stable under composition with rotations?
Authors: Bobok Jozef , Činč Jernej , Oprocha Piotr , Troubetzkoy Serge
Published: May 2024

In this paper we provide a detailed topological and measure-theoretic study of Lebesgue measure-preserving continuous circle maps that are composed with independent rotations on each of the sides. In particular, we analyze the stability of the locally eventually onto and measure-theoretic mixing properties.
Intraspecific variation in responses to extreme and moderate temperature stress in the wild species, Solanum carolinense (Solanaceae)
Authors: Chandler Emma K , Travers Steven E
Published: May 2024

Adaptation or acclimation to local temperature regimes has often been used as a proxy for predicting how plant populations will respond to impending novel conditions driven by human-caused climate change. To understand how plants may successfully respond to increasing air temperatures (extreme and moderate) in the future, we explored how temperature tolerance traits differ in populations of Solanum carolinense from northern (MN) and southern (TX) regions of the continental USA in a two-experiment study. In the first experiment, we compared the heat and cold tolerance in vegetative (sporophyte) and reproductive (male gametophyte) traits. In the second experiment, we studied if long-term heat influences plant development by examining how development in moderate heat affected reproductive structures and reproductive success. We found that temperature sensitivity differed between southern populations, which regularly experience extreme heat, and northern populations which do not. In contrast to our expectations, northern populations appeared more heat-tolerant than southern populations for vegetative traits such as chlorophyll stability and reproductive traits such as pollen germination. Our results are consistent with a heat-avoidance, rather than tolerance mechanism to mitigate extreme heat during pollen germination. In the second experiment, plants developing under the moderate heat treatment had significantly smaller reproductive structures and reduced seed production (27% fewer seeds on average than in the control treatment). Reproductive structures that developed in moderate heat were also reduced in size, particularly in the northern populations relative to populations from the south. We conclude that rising temperatures have the potential to incur substantial negative consequences for the reproductive success of individuals in this species and that some populations already mitigate stressful temperature conditions through phenotypic plasticity.
Two methods of isolation of rat aortic smooth muscle cells with high yield
Authors: Lotfollahzadeh Saran , Jose Asha , Zarnaab Shafiq Esha , El Sherif Nourhan , Smith Michael , Han Jingyan , Seta Francesca , Chitalia Vipul
Published: May 2024

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are an integral part of blood vessels and are the focus of intensive research in vascular biology, translational research, and cardiovascular diseases. Though immortalized vascular smooth muscle cell lines are available, their use is limited, underscoring the need for primary VSMCs. There are several methods for isolating primary cells from mice. However, the isolation method from rat blood vessels requires optimization, given the differences in the aorta of mice and rats. Here we compare two methods for VSMCs isolation from rats: enzymatic digestion and the “block” method. We observed a significantly higher yield of VSMCs using the enzymatic digestion method. We further confirmed that VSMCs expressed well-established VSMC-specific markers (calponin) with both methods and observed the persistence of this marker up to 9 passages, suggesting a continuation of the secretory phenotype of VSMCs. Overall, this work compares two methods and demonstrates a practical and effective method for isolating VSMCs from rat aorta, providing vascular biologists with a valuable and reliable experimental tool.
miR-125b-5p delivered by adipose-derived stem cell exosomes alleviates hypertrophic scarring by suppressing Smad2
Authors: Xu Chaolei , Zhang Hao , Yang Chen , Wang Ying , Wang Kejia , Wang Rui , Zhang Wei , Li Chao , Tian Chenyang , Han Chao , Li Mengyang , Liu Xu , Wang Yunwei , Li Yan , Zhang Jian , Li Yu , Luo Liang , Shang Yage , Zhang Lixia , Chen Yuxi , Shen Kuo , Hu Dahai
Published: May 2024

Background

Hypertrophic scarring is the most serious and unmet challenge following burn and trauma injury and often leads to pain, itching and even loss of function. However, the demand for ideal scar prevention and treatment is difficult to satisfy. We aimed to discover the effects and mechanisms of adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) exosomes in hypertrophic scarring.

Methods

ADSC exosomes were isolated from the culture supernatant of ADSCs and identified by nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy and western blotting. The effect of ADSC exosomes on wound healing and scar formation was detected by the wound model of BALB/c mice. We isolated myofibroblasts from hypertrophic scar tissue and detected the cell viability, proliferation and migration of myofibroblasts. In addition, collagen formation and fibrosis-related molecules were also detected. To further disclose the mechanism of ADSC exosomes on fibrosis in myofibroblasts, we detected the expression of Smad2 in hypertrophic scar tissue and normal skin and the regulatory mechanism of ADSC exosomes on Smad2. Injection of bleomycin was performed in male BALB/c mice to establish an in vivo fibrosis model while ADSC exosomes were administered to observe their protective effect. The tissue injury of mice was observed via hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining and related testing.

Results

In this study, we found that ADSC exosomes could not only speed up wound healing and improve healing quality but also prevent scar formation. ADSC exosomes inhibited expression of fibrosis-related molecules such as α-smooth muscle actin, collagen I (COL1) and COL3 and inhibited the transdifferentiation of myofibroblasts. In addition, we verified that Smad2 is highly expressed in both hypertrophic scar tissue and hypertrophic fibroblasts, while ADSC exosomes downregulated the expression of Smad2 in hypertrophic fibroblasts. Further regulatory mechanism analysis revealed that microRNA-125b-5p (miR-125b-5p) is highly expressed in ADSC exosomes and binds to the 3′ untranslated region of Smad2, thus inhibiting its expression. In vivo experiments also revealed that ADSC exosomes could alleviate bleomycin-induced skin fibrosis and downregulate the expression of Smad2.

Conclusions

We found that ADSC exosomes could alleviate hypertrophic scars via the suppression of Smad2 by the specific delivery of miR-125b-5p.
Vernacular classicism and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus: the architectural imaginary of a Danish interwar crematorium
Authors: Kristensen Troels Myrup
Published: May 2024

This article discusses a crematorium inaugurated in 1923 in the municipal Northern Cemetery (Nordre Kirkegård) of Aarhus as a case of vernacular classicism in interwar Denmark. While earlier works by its architect Sophus Frederik Kühnel (1851–1930) followed National Romantic, Renaissance, and Gothic models, the crematorium stands out because of its crowning feature, a stepped pyramid roof that emulates one of the most characteristic architectural elements of the mid-fourth-century BCE Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, described by Pliny the Elder (HN 36.31) and other ancient authors. This reference to one of the most famous funerary monuments from classical antiquity is both functionally and symbolically appropriate in a cemetery setting and also fits into a longer history of ‘Mausoleumania’, both in Denmark and internationally. Furthermore, it reflects a broader architectural movement of vernacular, ‘Nordic’ classicism during the interwar period, when local architects ‘translated’ classical elements into the vernacular, for example, through prominent use of brickwork and eclectic combinations of classical motifs with both medieval and National Romantic forms. Kühnel’s crematorium shows some of the creative ways in which Scandinavian architects freely adapted distinctive elements from the repertoire of classical architecture, in this case in response to the rise of cremation.
Analysis of meiotic recombination in Drosophila simulans shows no evidence of an interchromosomal effect
Authors: Man Bowen , Kim Elizabeth , Vadlakonda Alekhya , Stern David L , Crown K Nicole
Published: May 2024

Chromosome inversions are of unique importance in the evolution of genomes and species because when heterozygous with a standard arrangement chromosome, they suppress meiotic crossovers within the inversion. In Drosophila species, heterozygous inversions also cause the interchromosomal effect, whereby the presence of a heterozygous inversion induces a dramatic increase in crossover frequencies in the remainder of the genome within a single meiosis. To date, the interchromosomal effect has been studied exclusively in species that also have high frequencies of inversions in wild populations. We took advantage of a recently developed approach for generating inversions in Drosophila simulans, a species that does not have inversions in wild populations, to ask if there is an interchromosomal effect. We used the existing chromosome 3R balancer and generated a new chromosome 2L balancer to assay for the interchromosomal effect genetically and cytologically. We found no evidence of an interchromosomal effect in D. simulans. To gain insights into the underlying mechanistic reasons, we qualitatively analyzed the relationship between meiotic double-stranded break (DSB) formation and synaptonemal complex (SC) assembly. We found that the SC is assembled prior to DSB formation as in D. melanogaster; however, we show that the SC is assembled prior to localization of the oocyte determination factor Orb, whereas in D. melanogaster, SC formation does not begin until the Orb is localized. Together, our data show no evidence that heterozygous inversions in D. simulans induce an interchromosomal effect and that there are differences in the developmental programming of the early stages of meiosis.
Multi-agent reinforcement learning based algorithm detection of malware-infected nodes in IoT networks
Authors: Severt Marcos , Casado-Vara Roberto , del Rey Ángel Martín , Quintián Héctor , Luis Calvo-Rolle Jose
Published: May 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a fast-growing technology that connects everyday devices to the Internet, enabling wireless, low-consumption and low-cost communication and data exchange. IoT has revolutionized the way devices interact with each other and the internet. The more devices become connected, the greater the risk of security breaches. There is currently a need for new approaches to algorithms that can detect malware regardless of the size of the network and that can adapt to dynamic changes in the network. Through the use of a multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithm, this paper proposes a novel algorithm for malware detection in IoT devices. The proposed algorithm is not strongly dependent on the size of the IoT network due to the that its training is adapted using time differences if the IoT network size is small or Monte Carlo otherwise. To validate the proposed algorithm in an environment as close to reality as possible, we proposed a scenario based on a real IoT network, where we tested different malware propagation models. Different simulations varying the number of agents and nodes in the IoT network have been developed. The result of these simulations proves the efficiency and adaptability of the proposed algorithm in detecting malware, regardless of the malware propagation model.
Development of an evaluation and treatment strategy for olfactory neuroblastoma: a review of evidence from large-scale studies, including population-based and multicenter studies, and meta-analyses
Authors: Ariizumi Yosuke , Asakage Takahiro
Published: May 2024

Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare sinonasal malignancy arising from the olfactory epithelium that is characterized by skull base involvement and a modest natural history. Because of its rarity and long course, identification of independent prognostic factors is dependent on multivariate analysis of large, long-term data. In this review, we outline evidence for the evaluation and treatment of olfactory neuroblastoma obtained from recent large-scale population-based studies, meta-analyses and multicenter studies. Hyams grade is currently the only pathological grade system for olfactory neuroblastoma. The modified Kadish staging and Dulguerov classification are available for clinical staging. The results of large-scale studies have confirmed Hyams, the modified Kadish and Dulguerov as independent prognostic factors. Surgery followed by radiotherapy provides the best overall survival and recurrence-free survival for resectable disease. The question of whether postoperative radiotherapy should be administered for all cases or only for those at risk of recurrence remains unanswered. Exclusively endoscopic resection is indicated for modified Kadish A/B cases without any increase in the risk of death or recurrence, and is also indicated for modified Kadish C cases if a negative surgical margin is ensured. For more advanced cases, such as those with extensive brain infiltration, the open approach is indicated. Elective nodal irradiation prevents late nodal recurrence of N0 patients. Chemotherapy has failed to show a benefit in survival or disease control. Current needs for olfactory neuroblastoma include the development and validation of refined staging systems suitable for current practice; expansion of indications for endoscopic surgery; less invasive surgery; definitive radiotherapy and novel systemic therapy.
Erythrocyte membrane-camouflaged mesoporous silica composite nanoparticles for loading and controlled release of the hepatoprotective agent silibinin: A-synthesis and physicochemical characterization
Authors: Tayebi Khorrami Vahid , Raee Mohammad Javad , Abolmaali Samira Sadat , Abedanzadeh Mozhgan , Shafiee Mina , Tamaddon Ali Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Milk thistle has long been used in the treatment of liver and biliary disorders. In the present study, to make a long-acting delivery system for silibinin (SBN, a major active constituent of milk thistle seeds with antioxidant and hepatoprotective function), mesoporous silica composite nanoparticles (NC) were synthesized and coated with RBC membrane.

Methods

A modified Stöber method was used for NC synthesis, which was then characterized using FE-SEM, DLS, TEM, FTIR, and EDAX techniques. A suitable lysis buffer was used to prepare RBC-ghost, and sonication was used to coat SBN-loaded NC (SBN-NC). The RBC-ghost coated SBN-NC (SBN-NC-RBCG) was evaluated by SDS-PAGE, Bradford, TEM, EDAX, and DLS methods. SBN release was then compared for the SBN-NC and SBN-NC-RBCG samples.

Key findings

the RBC membrane proteins were recovered from the coating of SBN-NC-RBCG, and SBN release was sustained over 24 h when compared with the SBN-NC.

Conclusions

Overall, through prolonging circulation in the bloodstream and evading the immune system, the developed system can improve SBN bioavailability in liver inflammation and fibrosis conditions that need further research.