bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Transcriptome of BT-20 Breast Cancer Cells Exposed to Curcumin Analog NC2603 Reveals a Relationship between EGR3 Gene Modulation and Cell Migration Inhibition
Authors: Nishimura Felipe Garcia , Sampaio Beatriz Borsani , do Couto Gabrielly Oliveira , da Silva Aryane Dias , da Silva Wanessa Julia , Peronni Kamila Chagas , Evangelista Adriane Feijó , Hossain Mohammad , Dimmock Jonathan R. , Bandy Brian , Beleboni Rene Oliveira , Marins Mozart , Fachin Ana Lucia
Published: March 2024

Breast cancer represents a critical global health issue, accounting for a substantial portion of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Metastasis, the spread of cancer cells to distant organs, is the primary cause of approximately 90% of breast cancer-related fatalities. Despite advances in cancer treatment, conventional chemotherapeutic drugs often encounter resistance and demonstrate limited efficacy against metastasis. Natural products have emerged as promising sources for innovative cancer therapies, with curcumin being one such example. However, despite its therapeutic potential, curcumin exhibits several limitations. Analogous compounds possessing enhanced bioavailability, potency, or specificity offer a promising avenue for overcoming these challenges and demonstrate potent anti-tumor activities. Our study investigates the antimetastatic potential of the curcumin analog NC2603 in breast cancer cells, utilizing BT-20 cells known for their migratory properties. Cell viability assessments were performed using the MTT reduction method, while migration inhibition was evaluated through scratch and Transwell migration assays. Transcriptome analysis via next-generation sequencing was employed to elucidate gene modulation and compound mechanisms, with subsequent validation using RT-qPCR. The IC50 of NC2603 was determined to be 3.5 μM, indicating potent inhibition of cell viability, and it exhibited greater specificity for BT-20 cells compared with non-cancerous HaCaT cells, surpassing the efficacy of doxorubicin. Notably, NC2603 demonstrated superior inhibition of cell migration in both scratch and Transwell assays compared with curcumin. Transcriptome analysis identified 10,620 modulated genes. We validated the expression of six: EGR3, ATF3, EMP1, SOCS3, ZFP36, and GADD45B, due to their association with migration inhibition properties. We hypothesize that the curcumin analog induces EGR3 expression, which subsequently triggers the expression of ATF3, EMP1, SOCS3, ZFP36, and GADD45B. In summary, this study significantly advances our comprehension of the intricate molecular pathways involved in cancer metastasis, while also examining the mechanisms of analog NC2603 and underscoring its considerable potential as a promising candidate for adjuvant therapy.
Nitrosyl-Heme and Heme Iron Intake from Processed Meats in Subjects from the EPIC-Spain Cohort
Authors: Rizzolo-Brime Lucía , Farran-Codina Andreu , Bou Ricard , Luján-Barroso Leila , Quirós Jose Ramón , Amiano Pilar , Sánchez María José , Rodríguez-Barranco Miguel , Guevara Marcela , Moreno-Iribas Conchi , Gasque Alba , Chirlaque María-Dolores , Colorado-Yohar Sandra M. , Castaño José María Huerta , Agudo Antonio , Jakszyn Paula
Published: March 2024

Background: The consumption of processed meats (PMs) and red meats are linked to the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. Various theories have been proposed to explain this connection, focusing on nitrosyl-heme and heme iron intake. We hypothesized that differences in nitrosyl-heme and heme iron intakes will be associated with various sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. Methods: The study included 38,471 healthy volunteers (62% females) from five Spanish regions within the EPIC-Spain cohort. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) determined nitrosyl-heme and heme iron levels in the 39 most consumed PMs. Food intake was assessed using validated questionnaires in interviews. Nitrosyl-heme and heme iron intakes, adjusted for sex, age, body mass index (BMI), center, and energy intake, were expressed as geometric means due to their skewed distribution. Variance analysis identified foods explaining the variability of nitrosyl-heme and heme iron intakes. Results: The estimated intakes were 528.6 µg/day for nitrosyl-heme and 1676.2 µg/day for heme iron. Significant differences in nitrosyl-heme intake were found by sex, center, energy, and education level. Heme iron intake varied significantly by sex, center, energy, and smoking status. “Jamón serrano” and “jamón cocido/jamón de York” had the highest intake values, while “morcilla asturiana” and “sangrecilla” were key sources of nitrosyl-heme and heme iron. Conclusions: This is the first study to estimate levels of nitrosyl-heme intake directly in PMs for a large sample, revealing variations based on sex, BMI, smoking, and activity. Its data aids future exposure estimations in diverse populations.
A New Journal Focusing on Companion Animals—A Welcome Message from the Editor-in-Chief
Authors: Suchodolski Jan S.
Published: March 2024

More than half of US and European households own one or more pets [...]
Pharmacy Students’ Perceived Ability to Implement the Pharmacist’s Patient Care Process before and after a Redesigned Case Study Series in the United States
Authors: Henneman Amy , Axtell Samantha
Published: March 2024

Since the incorporation of the Pharmacist’s Patient Care Process (PPCP) into the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy standards, the process has been integrated in a variety of ways across curriculums. A two-semester case-based course was redesigned as a four-semester case-based course formally integrating the PPCP. Pharmacy students completing the original, two-semester course series and those completing the first two semesters of the redesigned course were given a voluntary survey to assess their perceived ability to integrate the PPCP into practice after the completion of each course. A total of 107 pharmacy students, 61 students completing the original series and 46 students completing two semesters of the redesigned series, completed the survey. The pharmacy students completing the redesigned, four-semester course series had a significantly higher perception of their ability to integrate the PPCP into patient care compared to the students completing the original series. This included the perceived ability to ask appropriate questions, identify medication-related problems (MRPs), document MRPs, and develop a plan for addressing MRPs. A significant difference was found in the students’ perceived ability to ask pertinent questions in an appropriate manner, identifying and documenting MRPs, managing and solving MRPs, and documenting patient interactions. No significant difference was identified regarding the students’ perceived ability to document the interaction or ensure that treatment-related plans were implemented. The students’ perception regarding the importance of asking pertinent questions, identifying MRPs, and documentation in patient care did not differ between the cohorts. The case-based course series redesigned from two to four semesters with formal integration of the PPCP resulted in an increase in the students’ perceptions of their ability to integrate the PPCP into patient care.
Dynamics of Fluids in the Cavity of a Rotating Body: A Review of Analytical Solutions
Authors: Gurchenkov Anatoly A. , Matveev Ivan A.
Published: March 2024

Since the middle of the 20th century, an understanding of the diversity of the natural magnetohydrodynamic phenomena surrounding us has begun to emerge. Magnetohydrodynamic nature manifests itself in such seemingly heterogeneous processes as the flow of water in the world’s oceans, the movements of Earth’s liquid core, the dynamics of the solar magnetosphere and galactic electromagnetic fields. Their close relationship and multifaceted influence on human life are becoming more and more clearly revealed. The study of these phenomena requires the development of theory both fundamental and analytical, unifying a wide range of phenomena, and specialized areas that describe specific processes. The theory of translational fluid motion is well developed, but for most natural phenomena, this condition leads to a rather limited model. The fluid motion in the cavity of a rotating body such that the Coriolis forces are significant has been studied much less. A distinctive feature of the problems under consideration is their significant nonlinearity, (i.e., the absence of a linear approximation that allows one to obtain nontrivial useful results). From this point of view, the studies presented here were selected. This review presents studies on the movements of ideal and viscous fluids without taking into account electromagnetic phenomena (non-conducting, non-magnetic fluid) and while taking them into account (conducting fluid). Much attention is payed to the macroscopic movements of sea water (conducting liquid) located in Earth’s magnetic field, which spawns electric currents and, as a result, an induced magnetic field. Exploring the processes of generating magnetic fields in the moving turbulent flows of conducting fluid in the frame of dynamic systems with distributed parameters allows better understanding of the origin of cosmic magnetic fields (those of planets, stars, and galaxies). Various approaches are presented for rotational and librational movements. In particular, an analytical solution of three-dimensional unsteady magnetohydrodynamic equations for problems in a plane-parallel configuration is presented.
Augmenting the Efficacy of a Polyvinyl Alcohol Selective Layer Coated on Polyvinylidene Fluoride Support Membranes with Kaolinite Introduction for Improved Pervaporation Dehydration of Epichlorohydrin/Isopropanol/Water Ternary Systems
Authors: Chaudhari Shivshankar , Jeong YeWon , Shin HyeonTae , Jo SeWook , Shon MinYoung , Nam SeungEun , Park YouIn
Published: March 2024

Composite membranes with a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) selective layer composed of well-dispersed hydrophilic kaolinite particles coated on a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) support were developed. They were applied to the pervaporation dehydration of the industrially important epichlorohydrin (ECH)/isopropanol (IPA)/water ternary mixture. In comparison with raw kaolinite (RK), hydrophilic kaolinite (HK) enhanced the mechanical properties, hydrophilicity, and thermal stability of the PVA selective layer, as confirmed by universal testing, the contact angle, and TGA analyses, respectively. The pervaporation results revealed that the addition of HK particles significantly enhanced the separation factor (3-fold). Only a marginal reduction in flux was observed with ECH/IPA/water, 50/30/20 (w/w %) at 40 °C. An HK particle concentration of 4 wt.% with respect to PVA delivered the highest flux performance of 0.86 kg/m2h and achieved a separation factor of 116. The PVA–kaolinite composite membrane exhibited pronounced resistance to the ECH-containing feed, demonstrating a sustained flux and separation factor throughout an extended pervaporation stability test lasting 250 h.
Characterization of Ceria Nanoparticles as Abrasives Applied with Defoaming Polymers for CMP (Chemical Mechanical Polishing) Applications
Authors: Hwang Sohee , Kim Woonjung
Published: March 2024

Chemical mechanical polishing/planarization (CMP) is an essential manufacturing process in semiconductor technologies. This method combines chemical and mechanical forces to smooth the surfaces of wafers. The effectiveness of CMP relies on a carefully chosen slurry, demanding a sophisticated manufacturing technology. This technology must seamlessly integrate both chemical composition and mechanical elements, highlighting the intricate synergy required for successful semiconductor fabrication. Particularly in milling processes, if agglomerated particles due to slurry particle corrosion are present during polishing, uneven polishing, numerous fine scratches occur, leading to an increase in roughness and a deterioration in the quality of the finished surface. In this study, to overcome the issue of particle agglomeration and uneven polishing in commonly used ceria nanoparticle slurries during CMP processes, we investigated the ceria nanoparticle behavior based on styrene–maleic acid (SMA) dispersant polymer applied with three types of defoaming polymers. The investigations are expected to open up the possibility of utilizing ceria nanoparticles with applied defoaming polymer as an abrasive for advanced CMP applications. All samples were characterized by DLS (dynamic light scattering), SEM-EDX (scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy), pH, conductivity, viscosity, a 10-day stability test at 60 °C, the AF4 test, and the polishing rate efficiency test. Our research demonstrates a significant improvement achieved through the use of SMA dispersant polymer, resulting in a polishing selection ratio exceeding 80 for oxide and nitride films. The G-336 defoaming polymer utilized here is expected to serve as a viable alternative in CMP processes by providing stable uniformity.
New Die-Compaction Equations for Powders as a Result of Known Equations Correction: Part 2—Modernization of M Yu Balshin’s Equations
Authors: Laptiev Anatolii V.
Published: March 2024

Based on the generalization of M. Yu. Balshin’s well-known equations in the framework of a discrete model of powder compaction process (PCP), two new die-compaction equations for powders have been derived that show the dependence of the compaction pressure p on the relative density ρ of the powder sample. The first equation, p=w(1−ρ0)(n−m)·(ρ−ρ0)n(1−ρ)m, contains, in addition to the initial density ρ0 of the powder in die, three constant parameters—w, n and m. The second equation in the form p=H1−ρ0b−c·ρ−ρ0b1−ρ0c−aρ−ρ0c also takes into account the initial density of the powder and contains four constant parameters H, a, b, and c. The values of the constant parameters in both equations are determined by fitting the theoretical curve according to these equations to the experimental powder compaction curve. The adequacy of the PCP description with these equations has been verified by approximating experimental data on the compaction of various powders, including usual metal powders such as iron, copper, and nickel, highly plastic powders such as tin and lead, a mixture of plastic powder (Ni) with non-plastic powder (Al2O3), nickel-plated alumina powder, as well as powder of a brittle compound, in particular titanium carbide TiC. The proposed equations make it possible to describe PCP with high accuracy, at which the coefficient of determination R2 reaches values from 0.9900 to 0.9999. The four-constant equation provides a very accurate description of PCP from start to finish when the density of the samples stops increasing once the pressure increases to an extremely high level, despite the presence of porosity.
Marangoni Convection Velocity in Nonlinear Hanging-Droplet Vibration Phenomena
Authors: Onoda Koutaro , Nanzai Ben
Published: March 2024

The Marangoni effect involves a mass transfer along an interface between two phases owing to the gradient of the interfacial tension. The flow caused by this phenomenon is called Marangoni convection, a complex phenomenon that involves mass transfer processes, such as surfactant adsorption/desorption processes, solvent dissolution phenomena, and viscous dissipation processes. Therefore, the strength of the convection depends on the various thermodynamic and physical properties of the fluids. In this study, we experimentally investigated the relationship between the Marangoni convection generated inside a hanging oil droplet and the interfacial tension of the oil droplet in an aqueous phase by the particle image velocimetry method. This convection velocity depended on the initial value of the interfacial tension in the oil–water interfacial tension oscillation phenomenon accompanied by the expansion and contraction of the hanging drop. Additionally, the droplet oscillation frequency decreased as the Marangoni convection velocity increased. Furthermore, continuous convection, which is unlike Marangoni convection, was observed within this spontaneously expanding and contracting hanging-droplet system. This buoyant convection was caused by the mutual dissolution of the hanging-droplet oil phase and the surrounding aqueous phase.
The Impacts of Deformed Fabry–Perot Interferometer Transmission Spectrum on Wind Lidar Measurements
Authors: Zhao Ming , Chen Jianfeng , Xie Chenbo , Li Lu
Published: March 2024

The Fabry–Perot interferometer (FPI) plays a crucial role as the frequency discriminator in the incoherent Doppler wind lidar. However, in the practical receiver system, reflections occurring between optical elements introduce non-normal incident components in the light beams passing through the FPI. This phenomenon results in the deformation of the FPI transmission spectral lines. Based on that, a theoretical model has been developed to describe the transmission spectrum of the FPI when subjected to obliquely incident light beams with a divergence angle. By appropriately adjusting the model parameters, the simulated transmission spectrum of the FPI edge channels can coincide with the experimentally measured FPI spectral line. Subsequently, the impact of deformations in the transmission spectrum of the two edge channels on wind measurements is evaluated. The first implication is a systematic shift of 30.7 m/s in line-of-sight (LOS) wind velocities. This shift is based on the assumption that the lidar echo is solely backscattered from atmospheric molecules. The second consequence is the inconsistency in the response sensitivities of Doppler frequency shift between Rayleigh signals and Mie signals. As a result, the lidar system fails to fully achieve its initial design objectives, particularly in effectively suppressing interference from Mie signals. The presence of aerosols can introduce a significant error of several meters per second in the measurement of LOS wind velocity.
RETRACTED: Embedded Sensors with 3D Printing Technology: Review
Authors: Bas Joan , Dutta Taposhree , Llamas Garro Ignacio , Velázquez-González Jesús , Dubey Rakesh , Mishra Satyendra
Published: March 2024

Embedded sensors (ESs) are used in smart materials to enable continuous and permanent measurements of their structural integrity, while sensing technology involves developing sensors, sensory systems, or smart materials that monitor a wide range of properties of materials. Incorporating 3D-printed sensors into hosting structures has grown in popularity because of improved assembly processes, reduced system complexity, and lower fabrication costs. 3D-printed sensors can be embedded into structures and attached to surfaces through two methods: attaching to surfaces or embedding in 3D-printed sensors. We discussed various additive manufacturing techniques for fabricating sensors in this review. We also discussed the many strategies for manufacturing sensors using additive manufacturing, as well as how sensors are integrated into the manufacturing process. The review also explained the fundamental mechanisms used in sensors and their applications. The study demonstrated that embedded 3D printing sensors facilitate the development of additive sensor materials for smart goods and the Internet of Things.
Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Drones in Solar Photovoltaic Energy Applications—Safe Autonomy Perspective
Authors: Olayiwola Olufemi , Elsden Miles , Dhimish Mahmoud
Published: March 2024

While there is evidence of substantial improvement in efficiency and cost reduction from the integration of Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Drones (RAID) in solar installations; it is observed that there is limited oversight by international standards such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in terms of the hazards and untapped potentials. This is partly because it is an emerging application and generally burdened with social acceptability issues. Thus, the safety regulations applied are adaptations of device-specific regulations as deemed fit by individual companies. Also, due to the fast-paced technological development of these platforms, there is huge potential for applications that are not currently supported by the device-specific regulations. This creates a multi-faceted demand for the establishment of standardized, industry-wide polices and guidelines on the use of RAID platforms for Solar PV integrations. This work aims to address critical safety concerns by conducting a comprehensive high-level system examination applicable to the monitoring and maintenance of Solar PV systems. Standard safety assurance models and approaches are examined to provide a safe autonomy perspective for Solar PVs. It is considered that, as RAID applications continue to evolve and become more prevalent in the Solar PV industry, standardized protocols or policies would be established to ensure safe and reliable operations.
Humane Entrepreneurship in the Circular Economy: The Role of Green Market Orientation and Green Technology Turbulence for Sustainable Corporate Performance
Authors: Aboalhool Tariq , Alzubi Ahmad , Iyiola Kolawole
Published: March 2024

The modern business world is confronted with growing social and environmental issues, which pose a serious challenge to pursuing sustainable growth. Drawing from the natural resource base view and stakeholder theory, this study examines the effect of humane entrepreneurship on sustainable corporate performance through the mediating mechanism of green market orientation and the moderating role of green technology turbulence. Cross-sectional data were obtained from Turkish small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across various sectors. This research adopts a quantitative approach. In total, 393 valid responses obtained from managers of SMEs were utilized to examine the above relationships. The results indicate that humane entrepreneurship has a positive effect on sustainable corporate performance. Humane entrepreneurship has a positive effect on green market orientation. Green market orientation has a positive effect on sustainable corporate performance. The relationship between humane entrepreneurship and sustainable corporate performance is partially mediated by green market orientation. The relationship between humane entrepreneurship and sustainable corporate performance is further strengthened in a highly green technology turbulent environment. The indirect positive effect of humane entrepreneurship on sustainable corporate performance through green market orientation is the strongest when green technology turbulence is high. Simultaneously examining the mediation and moderation relationships, we provide novel insights that extend traditional entrepreneurial vision to a more environmentally conscious humane entrepreneurship approach. The study provides a comprehensive picture of how green market orientation and green technology turbulence are involved in using humane entrepreneurship to achieve superior sustainable corporate performance in the circular economy context.
Performance Assessment of Different Sustainable Energy Systems Using Multiple-Criteria Decision-Making Model and Self-Organizing Maps
Authors: Dash Satyabrata , Chakravarty Sujata , Giri Nimay Chandra , Ghugar Umashankar , Fotis Georgios
Published: March 2024

The surging demand for electricity, propelled by the widespread adoption of intelligent grids and heightened consumer interaction with electricity demand and pricing, underscores the imperative for precise prognostication of optimal power plant utilization. To confront this challenge, a dataset centered on issue-centric power plans is meticulously crafted. This dataset encapsulates pivotal facets indispensable for attaining sustainable power generation, including meager gas emissions, installation cost, low maintenance cost, elevated power generation, and copious resource availability. The selection of an optimal power plant entails a multifaceted decision-making process, demanding a systematic approach. Our research advocates the amalgamation of multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) models with self-organizing maps to gauge the efficacy of diverse sustainable energy systems. The examination discerns solar energy as the preeminent MCDM criterion, securing the apex position with a score of 83.4%, attributable to its ample resource availability, considerable energy generation, nil greenhouse gas emissions, and commendable efficiency. Wind and hydroelectric power closely trail, registering scores of 75.3% and 74.5%, respectively, along with other energy sources. The analysis underscores the supremacy of the renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind, in fulfilling sustainability objectives and scrutinizing factors such as cost, resource availability, and the environmental impact. The proposed methodology empowers stakeholders to make judicious decisions, accentuating facets that are required for more sustainable and resilient power infrastructure.
Analysis of Carrier Aggregation as a Diversity Technique for Improved Spectral Efficiency and Secrecy Performance in Mobile Communications
Authors: Adamu Paul Ushiki , López-Benítez Miguel
Published: March 2024

Carrier aggregation (CA) was introduced in mobile communication systems in response to the demand for higher network capacity. CA was conceived as a technique to achieve higher data rates by aggregating multiple blocks of spectrum from the same or different frequency bands. This work explores a different point of view, where CA is employed not as a way to increase capacity through using more bandwidth, but as a diversity technique in order to increase the spectral efficiency of the existing spectrum, and therefore, achieve higher capacity without needing additional spectrum. A mathematical model and set of closed-form expressions are provided, which can be used to characterise the performance of CA as a diversity technique (in terms of both ergodic capacity and secrecy capacity) and determine the impact of various relevant configuration parameters. The numerical results obtained by evaluating the mathematical expressions derived in this work are in line with our previous simulation studies and demonstrate that CA can be effectively exploited as a diversity technique to improve the capacity and performance of mobile communication systems compared to the case of single-carrier transmission over the same amount of bandwidth.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Dust in Vilnius Schools: Source Identification, Pollution Levels, and Potential Health Risks for Children
Authors: Unsal Murat Huseyin , Ignatavičius Gytautas , Valiulis Arunas , Prokopciuk Nina , Valskienė Roberta , Valskys Vaidotas
Published: March 2024

The main objective of this study is to thoroughly evaluate the diversity and sources of heavy metals in the school environment. Specifically, this study examines the presence of heavy metals in the dust found and collected from 24 schools in Vilnius. Employing hierarchical cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and positive matrix factorization, we identified combustion-related activities as primary contributors to elevated metal concentrations, notably zinc, scandium, and copper, with PM2.5/PM10 ratios indicating a combustion source. They reveal significant differences in the levels of elements such as arsenic (4.55–69.96 mg/kg), copper (51.28–395.37 mg/kg), zinc, and lead, which are affected by both local environmental factors and human activities. Elevated pollution levels were found in certain school environments, indicating environmental degradation. Pollution assessment and specific element pairings’ strong positive correlations suggested shared origins or deposition processes. While this study primarily assesses non-carcinogenic risks to children based on a health risk assessment model, it acknowledges the well-documented carcinogenic potential of substances such as lead and arsenic. The research emphasizes the immediate necessity for efficient pollution management in educational environments, as indicated by the elevated hazard index for substances such as lead and arsenic, which present non-carcinogenic risks to children. This research offers important insights into the composition and origins of dust pollution in schools. It also promotes the need for broader geographic sampling and prolonged data collection to improve our understanding of pollution sources, alongside advocating for actionable strategies such as environmental management and policy reforms to effectively reduce exposure risks in educational settings. Furthermore, it aims to develop specific strategies to safeguard the health of students in Vilnius and similar urban areas.
Towards Design Principles for Good Multi-Level Drought Risk Governance: Some Lessons from the Rhine Basin
Authors: Jalink Heleen , Dieperink Carel
Published: March 2024

In times of climate change, periods of drought will occur more frequently. This causes challenges for water use, ranging from limitations on the navigability of water courses, limited availability of water for irrigation and drinking water supply, reduced hydropower production, increasing concentrations of pollutants, deteriorating water quality, and ecosystem degradation. Dealing with droughts, however, is a complex puzzle due to the multi-level governance characteristics of international river basins and the need to meet the freshwater demands of all sectors involved. This increases the need to address drought issues in a coordinated way, along all levels of decision making. Thus far, the way this must be executed has been under-researched. This paper addresses this knowledge gap as it aims to provide design principles for good multi-level drought risk governance in international river basins. In order to meet our aim, we first reviewed literature on multi-level and good governance and established an assessment framework. This framework was applied in a case study on drought risk governance in the international Rhine basin. Policy documents were analyzed and key informants interviewed. We found that although the governance practice in the basin meets most of our framework criteria, differences between the international level, the Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland also occurred. We have synthesized our findings into a list of 10 design principles for good multi-level drought risk governance, which could function as a starting point for the analysis and improvement of other multi-level drought risk governance practices.
Characteristics of Dry and Wet Changes and Future Trends in the Tarim River Basin Based on the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index
Authors: Li Yansong , Chen Yaning , Chen Yapeng , Duan Weili , Wang Jiayou , Wang Xu
Published: March 2024

Global changes in drought and wetness and their future trends in arid regions have recently become a major focus of research attention. The Tarim River Basin (TRB) in Xinjiang, China, is among the most climate-sensitive regions in the world. This study uses data from the past 60 years (1962–2021) to analyze the spatial and temporal features of drought and wetness conditions in the TRB, calculating the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). Trend detection for SPEI is performed using the BEAST mutation test, identification of drought events using the theory of operations, and spatial and temporal analyses of dry and wet changes using Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) decomposition. Additionally, the CMIP6 dataset is used to estimate future changes. The study results indicate the following: (1) From 1962 to 1998, the TRB exhibited a “warm and wet” trend that suddenly shifted from “wet-to-dry” in 1998 and subsequently transitioned to a pronounced “warm and dry” trend. (2) After the “wet-to-dry” shift, the frequency of drought events noticeably increased. The northern section of the basin witnessed more frequent drought events, albeit with lower severity, while the southern part had fewer occurrences but with higher severity. The spatial distribution of drought event frequency and severity is inconsistent. (3) The EOF decomposition results for SPEI-variable fields at 1-, 3-, and 6-month time scales show that the cumulative variance contribution rate of the first three principal spatial modal feature vectors exceeds 70%. The spatial distribution of the modes includes a consistent pattern across the entire basin, a north–south opposite pattern, and an east–west opposite pattern. (4) The future trend of drought in the TRB is expected to intensify, manifesting a spatial pattern characterized by dryness in the middle of the basin and wetness around the periphery. These research findings can provide support for decisions addressing regional drought risks.
Exploring and Enhancing Community Disaster Resilience: Perspectives from Different Types of Communities
Authors: Zhai Linpei , Lee Jae Eun
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to explore the differences in various aspects of community disaster resilience and how to enhance disaster resilience tailored to different community types. The evaluation results were validated using the flood event that occurred in Zhengzhou on 20 July 2021 (hereinafter referred to as the “7.20” rainstorm disaster). The main results of the analysis showed that the respondents’ overall evaluation of their community’s resilience to the “7.20” disaster was relatively high. Commercial housing communities performed the best, followed by urban village communities, and employee family housing communities performed the worst. Specifically, commercial housing communities scored highest in three dimensions: human capital, physical infrastructure, and adaptation. Urban village communities scored highest in the three dimensions of social capital, institutional capital, and community competence, while employee family housing communities consistently ranked the lowest in each dimension. The most significant disparities were found in human capital, followed by community competence and social capital, adaptation, and, lastly, institutional capital and physical infrastructure. Targeted improvement strategies and measures are suggested for each type of community, offering valuable recommendations for relevant government agencies aiming to enhance community disaster resilience and disaster risk reduction.
Festivals and Youth: An Educational Cultural Route to Festivals
Authors: Gómez-Ullate Martín , Saraiva Sofia Silveira
Published: March 2024

Festivals have emerged as a compelling subject of study within the realm of the social sciences, with disciplines like popular musicology showcasing festivals as a prominent area of investigation. These cultural events have demonstrated a profound and enduring impact on various generations, solidifying their significance in contemporary history. In the ever-evolving landscape of rapid social change, festivals have evolved into both traditions and heritage. Our research centered on the musical landscape in the city of Cáceres has culminated in the creation of a Festival Route rooted in the pertinent facets of its history and unique sociocultural context. The methodology employed in this study revolves around the development of comprehensive databases that encompass various parameters, principles, and elements. These databases are instrumental in crafting adaptable musical itineraries tailored to the individual participant’s characteristics, including age, educational background, place of origin, and explicit or intrinsic interests. Moreover, they factor into the duration of the route. These databases draw upon the findings of historiographic and ethnographic research, shedding light on the music performed and cherished within the city of Cáceres throughout its rich history. This paper primarily delves into the educational aspects derived from the socio-cultural phenomenon of festivals, specifically in the realms of music pedagogy and value-based education. Our Festival Route is designed with a particular focus on youth engagement, weaving together key locales within the city to create an enriching and educational experience.
Production and use of glucose-maltose-amino acid feed additive from cereal grains
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Novosibirsk State Agrarian University”, Russia, Novosibirsk, Motovilov K. Ya.
Published: March 2024

One of the important issues in domestic livestock farming is the production of high-quality and environmentally friendly poultry products. Currently, technology and technological means have been developed for processing cereal grains into easily digestible sugars and amino acids using elements of nanotechnology such as cavitation, ionization and fermentation. Technical documentation has been developed for this technology. The technology was introduced at the Berdskaya poultry farm LLC in the Novosibirsk region. A distinctive feature of this technology is that the resulting new glucose-maltose-amino acid feed additive, which has high digestibility and biological value. Easily digestible sugars: glucose, maltose and amino acids obtained using new technology at low temperatures are better digested and absorbed by the poultry’s body. The purpose of the work was to analyze the production and use of glucose-maltose-amino acid feed additive from cereal grains and its use in feeding of boiler chickens. Testing of the new feed additive was carried out at the Berdskaya poultry farm LLC on broiler chickens of the 4-line cross Sibiryak. It was found as a result of research of a new glucose-maltose-amino acid feed additive when feeding broiler chickens that its introduction into the diet of broiler chickens had a positive impact on economic performance. Thus, in the control group the profi t was 7919 rubles, and in the experimental group it was 10 034 rubles. The level of profitability in the experimental group was higher than in the control group by 5,7 abs.%. Feeding broiler chickens by the new feed additive helped reduce the content of lead and cadmium in muscle tissue, so this product can be used for dietary nutrition.
THERMAL DEGRADATION OF STEMS OF BORSCHTIA SOSNOVSKII MODIFIED WITH MONOETHANOLAMINE (N→B)-TRIHYDROXYBORATE
Authors:   National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, STEPINA I.V. , SODOMON М. ,   National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, KRUK A.A. ,   National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, SOLOVYEVA E.S. ,   National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering
Published: March 2024

In the presented work, the process of thermodegradation of unmodified and borazote-modified crushed stems of Sosnovsky's Heracleum by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was investigated. The general purpose of the study is to determine the decomposition temperature of the main chemical components and the values of mass loss of unmodified and modified crushed stems of Sosnovsky's heracleum to establish the conditions for the production of thermal insulation materials based on modified crushed stems. The concentration of the used modifier was 10%, 30% and 50% of monoethanolamine(N→B)trihydroxyborate (MEATHB). The data obtained allowed us to conclude that the use of 30% and 50% MEATHB modifier reduced the magnitude of mass loss compared to the control samples. Thus, the optimal concentration of the modifier different 30% was established for the manufacture of composites from modified crushed stems of Sosnovsky's heracleum with the possibility of processing and/or drying at temperatures less than 100°C.
APPROXIMATION OF DEFLECTIONS OF PLATES LYING ON WINKLER BASE
Authors:   Orel State University named after I.S. Turgenev, KOROBKO A.V. , PROKUROV M.Yu. ,   Bryansk State Technological University of Engineering
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this research is to develop the method of shape factor interpolation for calculating the maximum deflection of thin plates on an elastic Winkler base, which are widely used in modeling the operation of elements of building constructions of buildings and structures. The above calculation method allows to obtain solutions based on direct analytical dependences, the argument of which is an integral characteristic of a flat convex one-connected area - the shape factor. This characteristic has applications in a number of problems of mathematical physics and is known from the works of scientists G. Polia and G. Szegö. The shape factor was first applied to the calculation of plates by Professor V.I. Korobko. The method of interpolation by shape factor was developed by Professor A.V. Korobko. When determining the maximum deflection of thin plates on an elastic base, some parameters of the problem are considered as functions of the shape factor of the plate in consideration and are determined by the type of boundary conditions on its contour. The present study is devoted to the construction of approximating functions for continuous sets of plates of characteristic outlines and boundary conditions. The paper presents functions for calculating the maximum deflection of elastic plates in the form of isosceles triangles, rhombuses and rectangles. The plates with various combinations of hinged support and rigid pinch along their individual sides, loaded with a continuous uniformly distributed load, are considered. The established functional dependences are intended for direct use in the calculation of plates of the specified outlines, as well as for obtaining reference solutions during interpolation of the values of maximum deflections of plates of more complex outlines.
STRENGTH AND DEFORMABILITY OF WOODEN STRUCTURES REINFORCED WITH WASTE BAND SAW BLADES
Authors:   Vladimir State University named after Alexander and Nikolay Stoletovs, KORSHAKOV A.V. , LISYATNIKOV M.S. ,   Vladimir State University named after Alexander and Nikolay Stoletovs, LUKIN M.V. ,   Vladimir State University named after Alexander and Nikolay Stoletovs, ROSHINA S.I. ,   Vladimir State University named after Alexander and Nikolay Stoletovs
Published: March 2024

In Russia, the volume of sawn products produced by cutting large-sized logs on band saws is increasingly expanding. The blades of band saws work from 20 to 500 hours and the technology of their secondary use is currently not provided. The creation of an effective method of reinforcing wooden structures with spent band saw blades will increase their load-bearing capacity, rigidity and operational reliability. It is assumed that in terms of the combination of strength indicators and manufacturability, the new reinforced wooden structures will correspond to existing analogues, and in terms of economic indicators they will surpass them. The conceptual novelty consists in the secondary use of man-made waste from woodworking industries in the construction of buildings and structures, which for the first time will allow to justify the effectiveness of the method of reinforcing wooden structures with treated band saw blades at a high theoretical level. The article examines beams made of solid wood with a length of 6 meters with a cross section of 100 × 200 mm, bending tests are performed. Numerical simulation of the plane stress state by the finite element method is performed. The load-bearing capacity of a beam reinforced with spent band saw blades increased by 1.5 times in comparison with an unreinforced beam.
CREEP BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL-REINFORCED CONCRETE SPECIMENS
Authors:   GORPROJECT, TRAVUSH V.I. , ARLENINOV P.D. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction NIIZHB named after A.A. Gvozdev; National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, DESYATKIN M.A. ,   Inforsproekt, IVASCHENKO A.N. ,   Inforsproekt, KALMAKOVA P.S. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction NIIZHB named after A.A. Gvozdev; National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, KAPRIELOV S.S. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction NIIZHB named after A.A. Gvozdev, KONIN D.V. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction TSNIISK named after V.A. Koucherenko, KRYLOV A.S. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction TSNIISK named after V.A. Koucherenko, KRYLOV S.B. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction NIIZHB named after A.A. Gvozdev, CHILIN I.A. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction NIIZHB named after A.A. Gvozdev, SHEINFELD A.V. ,   JSC Research Center of Construction NIIZHB named after A.A. Gvozdev
Published: March 2024

The paper presents the results of investigation of creep and shrinkage of steel-reinforced concrete specimens. For this purpose, parallel tests of specimens made of the same class of concrete but with different reinforcement were carried out. Concrete specimens, specimens reinforced with bar reinforcement frames and steel reinforced concrete specimens with external sheet reinforcement were investigated. The tests were carried out in climatic rooms using spring setups to maintain a constant load acting on the specimens over time. The load on the specimens was selected based on the equality of stresses in the concrete in all series of specimens. The specimens were tested both waterproofed and non-waterproofed, and the effect of waterproofing coating on shrinkage and creep strains was evaluated for different series of specimens. A system was developed to capture information. which allows, in addition to longitudinal shrinkage and creep deformations, to determine transverse deformations, longitudinal deformations along the faces of the specimen to determine the influence of reinforcement and steel of the outer plate, to evaluate the change in longitudinal deformations from the center of the specimen to its edges, to evaluate separately the deformations of concrete and steel plate in steel-reinforced concrete specimens. The analysis of the results allowed a comparative assessment of the influence of conventional bar reinforcement as well as steel sheet of steel-reinforced concrete specimens on creep and shrinkage deformations; the influence of waterproofing coating on the test results in different series was also assessed. Based on the results of this work, extended requirements for experimental and theoretical studies of steel-reinforced concrete specimens with external sheet reinforcement to determine their design stiffnesses were formulated.
STRAIN PARAMETERS OF LOADED CONCRETE UNDER TRANSIENT HEATING CONDITIONS
Authors:   Russian University of Transport, LEVITSKY V.E.
Published: March 2024

The theory of damage accumulation in concrete as a heterogeneous-brittle material, as applied to conditions of high-temperature, abrupt heating, is supplemented by the premise of the invariance of ultimate structural stresses, which makes it possible to imagine the development of a nonlinear component of deformation and a decrease in strength as a single process. A characteristic of this process is the elasticity coefficient (secant modulus coefficient) of concrete, which in the formulation under consideration acquires the character of an entropy parameter of material damage. The consequences of this premise are formulated in the form of basic thermomechanical relationships, thanks to which it becomes possible to consider the reaction of concrete to the action of temperature and load as a result of the action of two degradation mechanisms: evaporation of moisture from the gel of cement stone and destruction of structural bonds with increasing temperature, which are realized respectively in the form of linear and nonlinear components of force deformation. A method of normalization (representation in a form relative to the initial value) of the development curves of force deformations of concrete is proposed, which allows us to reasonably separate these components when analyzing the deformation curves and find the temperature parameters necessary for their description under heating conditions in a loaded state. It was revealed that at the same load and temperature, an increase in deformability when heating concrete in a loaded state compared to loading after heating occurs due to an increase in the linear component while maintaining its share in the total deformation, characterized by the elasticity coefficient, constant. It is shown that the assumptions made in existing models of deformation of loaded concrete during unsteady heating are partial solutions, and the conditions under which their use becomes possible are determined.