bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of herbicidal anions on chemical shifts in NMR, phytotoxicity and surface properties of pyrrolidinium surface-active ionic liquids
Authors: Wojcieszak Marta , Syguda Anna , Materna Katarzyna
Published: February 2024

Six surface-active ionic liquids (SAILs) with herbicidal anions were synthetized (with a yield of ≥ 88 %) and their structure was confirmed by NMR spectra. Subsequently, their surface properties, phytotoxicity and bulk aggregation behavior in aqueous solution investigated. The compounds studied have an amphiphilic structure and, due to the presence of two long alkyl chains in the cation, they displayed surface activity (CMC values, ranging from 0.13 mmol L−1 to 1.36 mmol L−1). Our results provide explanations for the role of counterions in the physical and chemical properties of SAILs. Indeed, the aromatic anion affects the hydrophilic charge of the surface-active compounds. The SAILs containing the [MCPA]− and [MCPP]− anions were the most phytotoxic to representatives of dicotyledonous plants compared to the other compounds. By analysis of the structure of SAILs, we demonstrate that counterions play an important role in self-assembly and adsorption processes in aqueous solutions, and therefore, in the potential biological application of these compounds.
Enhancing charge transport and photoluminescence characteristics via transition metals doping in ITO thin films
Authors: Nowsherwan Ghazi Aman , Ahmad Muhammad , Bhuttee Rub Nawaz , Tahir Maryam , Azhar Muhammad , Haider Sabah , Anwar Nadia , Bilal Muhammad , Ameen Sabeen , Hussain Syed Sajjad , Riaz Saira , Naseem Shahzad
Published: February 2024

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of pristine and transition metal (Co, Fe, and Zr)-doped indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films fabricated via RF magnetron sputtering. The effect of transition metal doping on ITO thin films properties was comprehensively examined using numerous spectroscopic and microscopic methods such as XRD, FTIR, and SEM coupled with EDX, UV–visible and PL spectroscopy, and four-probe and J–V measurements. The cubic crystal structure of the materials was confirmed through XRD spectroscopy, while FTIR results validated the existence of chemical bonds, signified by sharp peaks at 608 cm−1 and 667 cm−1 in the fingerprint region. SEM imaging revealed a granular-like agglomerated structure, with EDX confirming the elemental composition of the samples. The incorporation of Co, Fe, and Zr ions into ITO is aimed at improving photoconductivity and the optical bandgap, with the ultimate objective of enhancing performance in photovoltaic applications. Our findings showed a significant decrease in optical transmission in the visible spectrum. The bandgap also experienced a minor decrease from 3.67 eV to 3.53 eV. Analysis of the photoluminescence spectra exhibited the majority of emission peaks in the UV region, ascribed to electronic transitions occurring via band-to-band and band-to-impurity interactions within the ITO. Electrical measurements indicated lower resistance, higher current flow, and increased carrier concentration in transition metals–doped ITO compared to the undoped ITO, with Zr-doped ITO exhibiting the highest conductivity and optimal charge flow among all dopants. These promising findings in terms of optical, structural, and electrical attributes signal the potential of these materials for photovoltaic system applications.
Investigations on the EPR parameters and local structures for the substitutional Ti3+ and W5+ centers in stishovite
Authors: Chen Fu , Zhou Zifa , Zhang Jin , Feng Cuidi
Published: February 2024

Local structures and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) parameters (g factors g

x
, g

y
, and g

z
) for the substitutional Ti3+ and W5+ centers in stishovite are theoretically investigated by using the high-order perturbation formulas of these parameters for a d1 ion in rhombically compressed octahedra. In the calculation formulas, the related molecular orbital coefficients are obtained from the cluster approach, and the relevant crystal-field (CF) parameters are determined from the superposition model, which enables to connect these CF parameters and, hence, the studied g factors with the local structures of the Ti3+ and W5+ centers in stishovite. Based on the calculations, the impurity–ligand bond lengths parallel and perpendicular to the C
2-axis are found to be R′|| (≈1.751 and 1.717 Å) and R′⊥ (≈1.788 and 1.806 Å) with the planar bond angles θ′ (≈89.0° and 88.2°) for the studied [TiO6]9− and [WO6]7− clusters, respectively. The calculated results are in good agreement with the experimental data, and the validity of the results is discussed.
E. E. Constance Jones on Existence in a Region of Supposition
Authors: Caplan Ben
Published: February 2024

In “On the Nature of Logical Judgment” (published 1893) and A New Law of Thought and Its Logical Bearings (published 1911), E. E. Constance Jones developed a view on which we can think and talk about the round-square. On her view, the round-square has a kind of existence; otherwise, sentences about it wouldn’t be meaningful. But it doesn’t exist in space, since it’s both round and square, and nothing in space is both. Although it has a kind of existence in what she calls “a Region of Supposition,” we can truly say that it “doesn’t exist,” if what we mean is that it doesn’t exist in space. It plays a role in reasoning, since we need to be able to reason about it to conclude that it doesn’t exist in space. And, although the round-square is both round and square, the Law of Contradiction needn’t be violated, provided that it’s understood in light of Jones’s distinction between two kinds of negation.
Evidence of the intentional use of black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) in the Roman Netherlands
Authors: Groot Maaike , van Haasteren Martijn , Kooistra Laura I.
Published: February 2024

The remains of black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) are relatively common at archaeological sites as it grows naturally around settlements in north-western Europe. All parts of the plant may be used as a medicine or a narcotic but its natural prevalence in built environments makes it difficult to interpret any intentionality behind its presence in the archaeological record. Evidence of the deliberate collection and use of black henbane seeds in the Roman Netherlands is presented here for the first time. Examination of Classical texts and interrogation of the archaeobotanical data allow the authors to place the discovery at Houten-Castellum of a hollowed bone containing hundreds of black henbane seeds within the context of the wider Roman understanding of the plant and its properties.
Fuzzy Image Target Recognition Algorithm Based on Visual Similarity in the Internet of Things Environment
Authors: Xu Lijuan , Xu Xuemiao
Published: February 2024

Because of the low accuracy of fuzzy image target recognition, an algorithm of fuzzy image target recognition based on visual similarity was researched. First, the method of adaptive weighted mean threshold was used to deal with fuzzy images, and then the adaptive threshold was obtained by a full scan of a fuzzy image. Second, the pixel point enhancement equation was established. Moreover, the new gradient operator used the points after filtering enhancement to reconstruct pixels and obtain the deblurred image. In addition, the visual similarity method was used to extract target features of the deblurred image, and then the color image was converted to a relatively uniform color space. On the basis of visual spatial response characteristics, brightness, contrast function, and chroma were used to adjust the image and thus to obtain the structure similarity index of each dimension image. By comprehensively considering the information of each dimension in color space, the structure similarity index was used to extract the image target features. Finally, the support vector machine model learned the target feature samples. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively identify the fuzzy image target.
Cross-Modal Interactions Between Auditory Attention and Oculomotor Control
Authors: Zhao Sijia , Contadini-Wright Claudia , Chait Maria
Published: February 2024

Microsaccades are small, involuntary eye movements that occur during fixation. Their role is debated with recent hypotheses proposing a contribution to automatic scene sampling. Microsaccadic inhibition (MSI) refers to the abrupt suppression of microsaccades, typically evoked within 0.1 s after new stimulus onset. The functional significance and neural underpinnings of MSI are subjects of ongoing research. It has been suggested that MSI is a component of the brain's attentional re-orienting network which facilitates the allocation of attention to new environmental occurrences by reducing disruptions or shifts in gaze that could interfere with processing. The extent to which MSI is reflexive or influenced by top–down mechanisms remains debated. We developed a task that examines the impact of auditory top–down attention on MSI, allowing us to disentangle ocular dynamics from visual sensory processing. Participants (N = 24 and 27; both sexes) listened to two simultaneous streams of tones and were instructed to attend to one stream while detecting specific task “targets.” We quantified MSI in response to occasional task-irrelevant events presented in both the attended and unattended streams (frequency steps in Experiment 1, omissions in Experiment 2). The results show that initial stages of MSI are not affected by auditory attention. However, later stages (∼0.25 s postevent onset), affecting the extent and duration of the inhibition, are enhanced for sounds in the attended stream compared to the unattended stream. These findings provide converging evidence for the reflexive nature of early MSI stages and robustly demonstrate the involvement of auditory attention in modulating the later stages.
Recasting Uncle Billy
Authors: Jenkins Benjamin
Published: February 2024

Social media have become platforms for attaching new meanings to the past. On Reddit, the community known as r/ShermanPosting has critically reexamined General William Tecumseh Sherman and the political meanings of the American Civil War, a conflict in which he played a major role. Content on r/ShermanPosting positions the general as a unionist and an accidental champion of civil rights. Redditors have employed this image to combat far-right rhetoric from other corners of social media. This article analyzes the content of r/ShermanPosting, particularly the user comments and popular memes that circulate on this site, to argue that netizens are reinterpreting the past and using digital history to make sense of the highly partisan political environment of the 2020s. Deeper collaboration with modern scholarship on the Civil War could enhance the meanings of content produced on this platform to offer an even more robust form of digital history. Above all, r/ShermanPosting demonstrates that memes, images paired with humorous captions, can make the past accessible online in humorous but meaningful ways.
Video Game Development as Public History
Authors: Reid Darren
Published: February 2024

Public historians have recently directed significant attention toward video games as a media form for engaging diverse audiences with participatory historical representations and arguments. Yet despite the availability of easy-to-use game creation tools, historians have been slow to adopt game development. I developed a video game, Ab Uno Sanguine, based on my PhD research to assess the practicality of game design as a venue for public history practice. This article reflects on my experiences in historical game development along the ADDIE (Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate) process of game production. This paper connects game studies, historical game studies, and digital public history scholarship to demonstrate how historians can become historian-developers to disseminate their research without a large budget or a professional game design team.
Preparation and tribological properties of Ti3C2Tx/TiO2 composite material
Authors:   School of Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou 213001, Jiangsu Province, China, Hou Z. P. , Li H. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou 213001, Jiangsu Province, China, Zhang X. H. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou 213001, Jiangsu Province, China
Published: February 2024

Ti3C2Tx/TiO2 composite materials were successfully prepared by hydrothermal reaction method. The phase structure and morphology of the samples were analyzed by X-ray diffractometer and scanning electron microscope. The results show that TiO2 particles are evenly distributed between the layers and on the surface of Ti3C2Tx nanosheets. The prepared composite materials were added to PAO6 base oil, and the MDW-02 friction and wear testing machine was used to study the effects of material addition concentration, working load and working speed on the tribological properties of lubricating oil. The friction test results show that the introduction of Ti3C2Tx/TiO2 composite material can reduce friction, and the maximum reduction of friction and wear was achieved under additive concentration of 1.0 wt%. By scanning electron microscopy analysis of the wear scars, it was confirmed that the prepared nanocomposites repaired the scratched surface and formed a uniform lubricating film, which helped to improve the tribological properties of the base oil.
pH/redox-responsive self-assembling nanoparticles for combinatorial delivery of 5 fluorouracil and methotrexate in colon cancer therapy
Authors:   Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, China, Guo H. , Zhang J. J. ,   Department of Neurology, Qiqihar First Hospital, China, Liu J. H. ,   Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, China, Wang Y. M. ,   Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, China, Fan S. J. ,   Research Institute of Medicine and Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, China
Published: February 2024

To fulfil the synergistic delivery and on-demand drug release of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and methotrexate (MTX) at tumor sites, we innovatively synthesized pH and redox responsive self-assembling nanoparticles based on ZIF-8 frameworks as the 5-FU vehicle decorated with hyaluronic acid-MTX bioconjugates linked with a redox-responsive disulfide bond. The constructed HA-SS-MTX/5-FU@ZIF-8 nanoplatform exhibited monodisperse and spherical shape with a mean hydrodynamic diameter of 161.0nm and loaded about 0.345 g of 5-FU and 0.0508 g of MTX per gram. The preliminary in vitro experiments showed that the as-prepared HA-SS-MTX/5-FU@ZIF-8 nanoparticles (NPs) displayed high inhibiting proliferation and promoting apoptosis performance towards the colon cancer cells.
Physical properties of mixed TiO2-CdO thin films for gas sensor applications
Authors:   Department of Physics- College of Education for Pure Sciences-University of Tikrit, Iraq, Ali H. S. , Abd Ali H. R. ,   Department of Physics- College of Education for Pure Sciences-University of Tikrit, Iraq, Habubi N. F. ,   Department of Physics- College of Education for Pure Sciences-University of Tikrit, Iraq
Published: February 2024

TiO2-CdO thin films were grown by Nd: YAG pulsed laser deposition (PLD) at different laser energies of (500-900) mJ. According to the findings of the XRD analysis, each film possessed a cubic polycrystalline crystal structure with a predominant peak along the (111) plane. The average crystallite size was corrected using Warren-Scherrer's corrections, and their values were found to lie between (12.23 and 83.40) nm. The AFM images indicate that the average particle size reduced as the laser energy increased, while surface roughness and root mean square values were raised as the laser energy increased. Optical properties showed that the bandgap decreases from 2.09- 1.8 eV with increasing laser energy. The increment in laser energy results in a rise in particle size and the average roughness. The maximum Sensitivity of TiO2-CdO films towards H2 gas was 72.3%, and the response time was within 24– 67.9 sec.
Mechanical and antibacterial properties of praseodymium and PLA codoped hydroxyapatite nanobiomaterials
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Chikkaiah Naicker College, Erode 638 004, Tamilnadu, India, Shanmugapriya P. , Bhuvaneshwari N. ,   Department of Chemistry, Chikkaiah Naicker College, Erode 638 004, Tamilnadu, India, Veerasamy R. ,   Department of Chemistry, K.S.R College of Engineering, Tiruchengode, Tamilnadu, India, Saranya G. ,   Department of Chemistry, Chikkaiah Naicker College, Erode 638 004, Tamilnadu, India, Sangeetha T. V. ,   Department of Chemistry, Chikkaiah Naicker College, Erode 638 004, Tamilnadu, India
Published: February 2024

In this research, chemical precipitation technique used to create a novel Pr/HA and Pr/PLA codoped nanohydroxyapatite composite and characterized using like TEM, SAED, SEM, AFM, XRD and FTIR techniques. Sample binding strengths for Pr/HA and Pr/PLA were extremely similar to 17.65 MPa and 24.65 MPa, respectively. Hv values of 322 and 332 were obtained from the Vickers micro-hardness test on samples of as-developed Pr/HA and Pr/HA/PLA, respectively. Antibacterial activity against K.pneumoniae and S. epidermidis aureus was tested using the synthesized Nano biomaterials. These results show that HA/Pr/PLA with improved antibacterial activity and mechanical qualities may be useful in medical settings.
Innovative use of pomegranate peels and chitosan as a bio-flocculant for heavy metal removal from wastewater
Authors:   Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction, Ministry of Science and Education, AZ1073 Baku, Azerbaijan, Khankishiyeva R. F. , Maharramova L. S. ,   Landau School, Ministry of Science and Education, 1110 Baku, Azerbaijan, Musayeva A. S. ,   Landau School, Ministry of Science and Education, 1110 Baku, Azerbaijan
Published: February 2024

This research explores the potential of using pomegranate peels and chitosan as a natural flocculant for pre-treating wastewater to enhance sand filtration and remove heavy metals (Ni2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+) effectively. Active compounds like tannin are extracted and purified from the pomegranate peels, then chitosan and tannin are modified to create a novel flocculant. The synthesized flocculant is characterized and its performance is evaluated through laboratory experiments, analyzing factors such as dosage, pH, and heavy metal concentration. The results of this work can provide a safe, easy, eco-friendly and cheap method of wastewater treatment.
Transformation of G1-G2 neuroendocrine tumors to neuroendocrine carcinomas following peptide receptor radionuclide therapy
Authors: Cordero-Hernandez Igryl S , Ross Alicia C , Dasari Arvind , Halperin Daniel M , Chasen Beth , Yao James C
Published: February 2024

We observed that some patients with well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NET) who received peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with Lutetium-177 (177Lu) DOTATATE developed rapid disease progression with biopsy-proven histologic transformation to neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC), an outcome that has not been previously described. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective review of all patients with well-differentiated G1-G2 NET who received at least one cycle of PRRT with (177Lu) DOTATATE at our center from January 2019 to December 2020. Among 152 patients, we identified 7 patients whose NET transformed to NEC. Median time from start of PRRT to transformation was 8.2 months (range: 2.6–14.4 months). All patients whose tumors underwent transformation had pancreatic tail as the primary site and had prior chemotherapy with temozolomide. No differences in the incidence of transformation were observed according to gender, race, original tumor grade, or number of prior therapies. Six patients received treatment with platinum and etoposide after transformation with two patients having partial response as best response. All patients with transformation died from progressive disease with median overall survival (OS) after transformation of 3.3 months (95% CI 2.1–4.4). Molecular testing of transformed NEC identified mutation(s) in TP53 and/or ATM in all cases. Transformation of NET to NEC following PRRT is associated with aggressive course and dismal prognosis. Patients with pancreatic tail as the primary site who had prior therapy with temozolomide may be at a higher risk. Further investigation is necessary to determine the best treatment sequence in this patient population.
Formation and Properties of Fibre Networks
Authors:   Paper Technology Department, Swedish Forest Products Research Laboratory, Stockholm, Steenberg B. , Thalén N. ,   Paper Technology Department, Swedish Forest Products Research Laboratory, Stockholm, Wahren D. ,   Paper Technology Department, Swedish Forest Products Research Laboratory, Stockholm
Published: February 2024

When elongated particles such as fibres are dispersed in water, they form a continuous network, provided the fibre concentration is above a certain level. A measuring technique utilising a concentric cylinder elasto-viscometer has been developed and used for studies of the mechanical properties of such networks. Networks generally exhibited the same characteristic properties as solid visco-elastic bodies, hence should be characterised by methods used for such materials rather than by hydrodynamic methods. Nevertheless, a close connection was found between the mechanical properties of fibre networks as measured by quasi-static methods and the hydrodynamic behaviour of the same material, then considered as a fibre suspension. A mechanism for the formation of fibre networks is proposed, in which the network is considered to derive its strength from the energy stored in the fibres when, after being bent in a turbulent shear field-such as is produced during agitation of the fibre suspension-they are prevented from straightening out by their interaction. A mathematical model of random three-dimensional fibre networks of low concentration has been evolved. The fibre concentration, the length-to-radius ratio and the modulus of elasticity on bending are shown to be the most significant of the parameters determining the rigidity of the network. Experimental study of the shear modulus of model fibre networks substantiated the qualitative validity of the fibre network model.
Structure and Properties of Heterophase Solids
Authors:   Wiggins Teape Research and Development Ltd., Beaconsfield, Bucks, Corte H. K.
Published: February 2024

A classification of the wide variety of solids according to physical, structural and chemical characteristics shows the category of heterophase solids to be the largest group of natural and artificial substances. Most manufacturing and manufactured materials fall in this category. The structure of such materials can be described by the shape, size, concentration, orientation and topology of the constituent phases. Statistical methods in particular, geometric probability sometimes supplemented by certain physical ortopological restrictions, provide adequate tools for the description of naturally grown or artificially mixed systems. Mechanical modulus properties as well as thermal and electrical properties can be treated in a fairly general manner,based either on field distortion of one phase by the presence of another phase or by means of phase models that give upper and lower limits for the property. The problem of strength properties can be seen in terms of fracture mechanisms or as a statistical one, in which case extreme value theory provides a suitable method.
Measurement and Significance of the Water Retention Properties of Papermaking Fibres
Authors:   Physical Chemistry Division, Pulp and Paper Research Institute of Canada, Montreal, Robertson A. A.
Published: February 2024

Equilibrium water retention isotherms have been determined for papermaking fibres through the range of moisture contents that is of greatest papermaking interest. The experimental method provides not only a measure of the swelling of the fibres and the equilibrium water retention at any force of water removal, but, conversely, the method measures the force with which the water is held and the force with which fibres or fibre elements are held together by residual water. Factors affecting the mechanism of water retention and the amount of water held by fibres are demonstrated by the isotherms of model and papermaking fibres of widely varying properties and treatments. The part played by the mechanism and extent of water retention on the development of wet web properties during drying is discussed and the need is demonstrated for more information than is provided by the isotherm. Finally, consideration is given to the role of swelling and water retention in pulp evaluation and some general principles are suggested by which the running and papermaking properties of a pulp might be predicted.
Accelerating the screening and development of drugs for the treatment of breast cancer
Authors: Jiang Xia , Zhao Bin
Published: February 2024

Breast cancer is one of the most lethal cancers, estrogen receptor α Subtype (ERα) is an important target. The compounds that able to fight ERα active may be candidates for treatment of breast cancer. The drug discovery process is a very large and complex process that often requires one selected from a large number of compounds. This paper considers the independence, coupling, and relevance of bioactivity descriptors, selects the 15 most potentially valuable bioactivity descriptors from 729 bioactivity descriptors. An optimized back propagation neural network is used for ERα, The pharmacokinetics and safety of 15 selected bioactivity descriptors were verified by gradient lifting algorithm. The results showed that these 15 biological activity descriptors could not only fit well with the nonlinear relationship of ERα activity can also accurately predict its pharmacokinetic characteristics and safety, with an average accuracy of 89.92~94.80%. Therefore, these biological activity descriptors have great medical research value.
Challenging the safety and efficiency of homeopathy: investigating a step further for “placebo-like” effect on ants as model organisms
Authors: Cammaerts David , Cammaerts Marie-Claire
Published: February 2024

Working on ants as biological models, we previously showed that Ignatia amara 5CH could decrease the adverse effect of onion odor (used as a stressing factor) on these insects’ locomotion, tactile perception, social relationships, stress, cognition, learning and memory. We here examined if this beneficial effect may be due to a “placebo-like” effect, caused by the sugared compound used in homeopathic drugs. To do so, we studied, again on ants as model organisms, the effect of Ignatia amara Mk, the drug-free preparation of Ignatia amara homeopathic drug, on ants maintained in the presence of onion and thus impacted by its odor. The Ignatia amara Mk homeopathic product did not improve any of the physiological and ethological traits of ants affected by the stressing factor. As a control, we assessed all the examined traits in ants maintained under normal conditions and found that none of the considered traits was affected (i.e. was different from their usual valor, the ants being thus initially in good, usual health). Consequently, Ignatia amara Mk appears as being without any effects, while Ignatia amara 5CH appeared to be efficient as a drug. Therefore, it seems that the effect we observed in our previous study using Ignatia amara 5CH cannot be explained by the sugared compound used as a support for the 5 CH dilution of the drug. As ants are not affected by the placebo effect, this later being a psychological bias, our results suggest that our previous work indeed revealed some effects of Ignatia amara homeopathic drug.
Recent advancements in nano sensors for air and water pollution control
Authors: Grozdanov Anita , Dimitrievska Iva , Paunovic Perica
Published: February 2024

Increased environmental pollution is becoming one of the greatest problem the world is facing nowadays causing irreparable damage to the earth. Because of their novel and tunable physicochemical properties, nano materials have attracted great attention among researchers as promising materials to combat environmental challenges. Developing nanotechnology have triggered a great deal of interest in these structures for pollution monitoring and treatment, enabling new technologies for identifying and addressing environmental problems. Even though achieving environmental pollution control is a challenging task using conventional materials, revolutionary progress has been observed with the advancements in nanotechnology, showing that precisely modified nano materials can be used for purposes such as treatment of polluted atmosphere, industrial and domestic wastewater, natural water, and soil. In this paper we review and discuss the environmental applications of nano materials as nano sensors employed for combating atmospheric and aquatic pollution. Keywords: enviro
Drug delivery in thermo-responsive silicone catheters by grafting of N-vinylcaprolactam using gamma radiation
Authors: Ramirez-Fuentes Manuel U. , Duarte-Peña Lorena , Bucio Emilio
Published: February 2024

Radiation-induced graft polymerization of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) onto silicone catheters by direct irradiation method was studied. The effects of the irradiation dose, as well as the monomer concentration, on the grafting efficiency were studied. The conditions for achieving maximum grafting yield were observed at 30% of monomer concentration in toluene at 50 kGy. The graft polymerization was examined by different characterization methods, including measurements such as thermogravimetric analysis, infrared, water contact angle, and swelling. The temperature-responsive behavior of smart grafted copolymer was studied by swelling at different temperatures. Differently from pristine silicone catheter, the N-vinylcaprolactam-grafted catheters were able to load vancomycin and sustain the release for 30 h.

Graphical abstract
The Use of Splinted Versus Nonsplinted Prosthetic Design in Dental Implants: A Literature Review
Authors: AL-Juboori Mohammed Jasim , AL-Attas Mohammed Ahmed , Minichetti John , Akhikar Joseph
Published: February 2024

The choice of a splinted or nonsplinted implant-supported prosthesis should be based on solid scientific evidence that considers the conditions and needs of each patient. This review elaborates on the factors that directly influence clinical decisions between splinted or nonsplinted dental implants. Digital and manual searches of the published literature were conducted to identify studies that examined splinted prostheses (SPs) and nonsplinted prostheses (NSPs). The search terms used, alone or in combination, were “splinting prosthesis,” “nonsplinting prosthesis,” “prosthetic design,” “stress distribution in dental implant,” “implant loading,” “implant occlusion,” and “crestal bone resorption.” Ninety-four studies were selected to compare and address the details emphasized in this study. Thirty-four reported articles were not directly related to restoration design but were reviewed to better understand the influence of mechanical risk factors, finite element analysis limits, and criteria for implant survival and treatment success. There are advantages and disadvantages of splinting implants together. NSPs are the ideal choice because they resemble natural teeth. Splinting a restored implant will cause the implant to appear as part of one unit and is indicated in more compromised situations, unfavorable conditions, or when pontic spaces and cantilevers are needed in implant prostheses.
Phillygenin Alleviates Arthritis through the Inhibition of the NLRP3 Inflammasome and Ferroptosis by AMPK
Authors: Wang Jianghui , Ni Shufang , Zheng Kai , Zhao Yan , Zhang Peihong , Chang Hong
Published: February 2024

We investigated the potential arthritis-inducing effects of Phillygenin and its underlying mechanisms. RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide to induce inflammation. Phillygenin was found to reduce arthritis score, histopathological changes, paw edema, spleen index, and ALP levels in a dose-dependent manner in a model of arthritis. Additionally, Phillygenin was able to decrease levels of inflammation markers in serum samples of mice with arthritis and also inhibited inflammation markers in the cell supernatant of an in vitro model of arthritis. Phillygenin increased cell viability and JC-1 disaggregation, enhanced calcien-AM/CoCl2, reduced LDH activity levels and IL-1a levels, and inhibited Calcein/PI levels and iron concentration in an in vitro model. Phillygenin was also found to reduce ROS-induced oxidative stress and Ferroptosis, and suppress the NLRP3 inflammasome in both in vivo and in vitro models through AMPK. In the in vivo model, Phillygenin was observed to interact with AMPK protein. These findings suggest that Phillygenin may be a potential therapeutic target for preventing arthritis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and Ferroptosis through AMPK. This indicates that Phillygenin could have disease-modifying effects on arthritis.
CHARACTERIZATION OF SEPARATED SHEAR LAYER OF ELEVATED JET IN CROSSFLOW AT LOW-VELOCITY RATIO
Authors: Gupta Jyoti , Singh Malkeet , Saha Arun K.
Published: February 2024

The present study reports an experimental investigation of the flow dynamics of separated shear layers of an elevated jet-in-crossflow (EJICF). The current work aims to enhance the understanding of the downwash of jet fluid into the stack-wake region, akin to plume downwash in chimney flows, particularly at a low-velocity ratio. One end of the square stack with the aspect ratio of 9.0 is kept on a flat plate while the jet emerges from the free-end open to crossflow. Flow visualization and particle image velocimetry (PIV) experiments are conducted in a recirculating, low-speed water tunnel for three Reynolds numbers, namely Re = 1000, 2000, and 4000, based on the side of the square stack (D) and the freestream velocity (U∞). The study mainly focuses on the jet shear layer characteristics and the downstream wake near the free-end formed by the interaction of crossflow and the jet shear layer. The instantaneous flow behavior includes the analysis of the shedding of the jet shear layer in a symmetric plane (z = 0) at a constant velocity ratio of R = 0.5. On the windward side, the jet shear layer reveals the formation of small-scale vortices due to the Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) instability for Re ≥ 2000. Also, it is found that at a high Reynolds number (Re = 4000), an unstable vortex appears above the jet exit on the upstream side, mentioned as a hovering vortex. The mean and fluctuating flow behavior are investigated using streamline and contour plots of mean velocity and fluctuating components.
Comparison of Roughness, Wettability, and SEM Features between Sandblasted Acid-Etched and Oxidized Titanium Dental Implants
Authors: Chhabra Kshitiz , Rajasekar Arvina
Published: February 2024

The surface of dental implants has undergone multiple modifications across the timeline to enhance osseointegration, thereby enhancing the success of dental implants. This study compared the surface roughness, wettability and topography of sandblasted acid-etched, and oxidized titanium dental implants. Three commercially available implants-namely, SLA, SLActive, and TiUnite-were evaluated for surface roughness in terms of Ra, Rq, and Rz; wettability in terms of contact angle (CA); and topography using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Roughness and wettability values were compared between the three surfaces by ANOVA and pairwise comparison by Tukey's HSD post hoc testing using SPSS Software. A p value of < 0.01 was considered to be statistically significant. The TiUnite surface exhibited the highest roughness values (Ra = 1.91 ± 0.006 μm, Rq = 2.99 ± 0.005 μm, Rz = 8.37 ± 0.003 μm) followed by the SLA and SLActive surfaces. The contact angles of the SLA, SLActive, and TiUnite dental implants were 98.44 ± 0.52°, 9 ± 0.03°, and 94.39 ± 0.08°, respectively. These data demonstrated statistically significant differences between the three surfaces (p < 0.01). There were no distinct differences in SEM features between the SLA and SLActive surfaces. However, the TiUnite surface exhibited a distinctly porous morphology. Oxidized dental implants differ from sandblasted acid-etched implants in terms of roughness, wettability, and surface topography.
TRAINING BUSINESS STYLE IN THE KYRGYZ LANGUAGE UNIVERSITIES (ON THE EXAMPLE OF SPECIALTY INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS)
Authors:   Kyrgyz State University named after Ishenaly Arabaev, Musaeva Venera , Akmatova Baktygul ,   Kyrgyz National University, named after Jusup Balasagyn
Published: February 2024

This article discusses some of the issues of teaching the Kyrgyz language to students of international relations in universities that have not been previously studied. The article describes the origin of documents in the history of the Kyrgyz people using the historical and chronological method, for example, the appearance of the first written documents in the Kyrgyz language in antiquity with the appearance in antiquity of public diplomacy for communication with other peoples. In order to improve the teaching of office work in the Kyrgyz language in higher educational institutions, scientific and theoretical literature, works, and curricula of scientists were analyzed with the provision of detailed information to students, as well as methods, forms, methods and of teaching office work. presented.
DIGITALIZATION OF EDUCATION AS A PROCESS OF UNITY OF OPPOSITES
Authors:   Kyrgyz State University named after I. Arabaev, Uturov Kytaibek , Kokombaev Kubatbek ,   Kyrgyz State University named after I. Arabaev
Published: February 2024

The Digital Transformation Concept “Digital Kyrgyzstan 2019-2023” dated December 14, 2018 No. 2 laid the foundation for digital development, which aims to form an open digital society and transition to digital management. "Digital Transformation" will open up many opportunities for Kyrgyzstan, contributing to the creation of new jobs, increasing access to quality education and health care. Digital technology has become a leading and decisive factor in progressive dynamics, a determining link in the country's economic growth, healthcare and education, public administration, and the quality of services provided. The digitalization of education enriches and improves the technologies of training and education and in connection with this, there are numerous definitions of concepts associated with the transformation of digital technologies and the informatization of education.
FOLKLORE MOTIVES IN THE KYRGHIZ TRADITIONS OF THE GENEALOGICAL CYCLE
Authors:   Kyrgyz National University named after J. Balasagyn, Ismailova Gulbarchyn
Published: February 2024

The genealogical legends are permeated with numerous folklore motives that still await special research. The legends of the genealogical cycle, which in their content are at the intersection of the interests of historical science, ethnography, and folklore studies, are the object of preliminary consideration in this article. In the legends about the origin of the Kirghiz, folklore motifs of a fairy-tale-mythological and totemistic origin are clearly revealed. In this sense, the genealogical traditions of the Kyrgyz go back to a very ancient tradition. In general, the ancestors of a number of Kyrgyz tribes or their subdivisions turn out, according to legends, found under different circumstances in the cradle, and at first, a camel, a white horse, argali, or a roe deer was seen in this place, and then the animal disappeared and instead of it, they found a baby in the cradle. And here one cannot fail to see the echoes of totemistic ideas. Even the genealogies of some historical figures, the real ancestors of certain tribal divisions, sometimes become overgrown with legends, in which traditional folklore motives are easily found. In the legends about the origin of the Kirghiz, folklore motifs of a fairy-tale-mythological and totemistic origin are clearly revealed. In this sense, the genealogical traditions of the Kyrgyz go back to a very ancient tradition.
GIVING MORAL EDUCATION THROUGH THE "MANAS" EPIC OF THE KYRGYZ AS AN OLD TURKIC SPEAKING PEOPLE AND FOLK DANCES
Authors:   National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, Murzaliyeva Zina
Published: February 2024

The article raises the question of next-generation education based on the epic "Manas" aimed at reviving the spiritual heritage, national roots, ancestral wisdom, and values of the Kyrgyz people. Epic is a special epopea vividly describing Kyrgyz’s life. Accordingly, special national programs were elaborated. In addition, the subject "Manas studies" has an important role in the education system. At schools, general education institutions, universities make up academic hours, curriculum, working plans, teaching guidelines. The author also refers to scientific research and its serious problems. The last two points are the special role of the epic "Manas" in world culture and its recognition by UNESCO.
WORLD EXPERIENCE OF STATE REGULATION OF THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
Authors:   I. Abdraimov Kyrgyzstan Aviation Institute, Abdykadyr kyzy Gulzada
Published: February 2024

This study examines the main issues of the features of the global experience of state regulation of the agricultural sector and their effectiveness. The research is based on the fundamental work of foreign scientists and determines the mechanisms of regulation of the agricultural sector with the direct participation of the state. The experience of developed countries shows the need to regulate agricultural production. The “invisible hand” of the market does not create the necessary conditions for the full-fledged operation of enterprises in the agricultural sector, therefore, a purposeful state policy is needed to distribute a significant part of the national income to support agriculture and its further development. Studies show that neither in economically developed countries with a high level of development of the agricultural sector nor in the implementation of agricultural policy, there are no countries where the development of the agricultural sector is ensured without the participation of the state. In developed countries, the agricultural sector is given special attention, despite the fact that it does not play a significant role in the structure of the economy. The entire sphere of agricultural policy (economic, technical, investment) is aimed at ensuring the competitiveness of the agricultural sector, for such a level can be achieved only through the balanced development of all sectors of the agricultural sector.
New species and genera of Pinwheel Snails from the brigalow lands of south central Queensland (Gastropoda: Eupulmonata: Charopidae)
Authors:   Queensland Museum, Stanisic John
Published: February 2024

Six new genera and 15 new species of Charopidae are described from the brigalow lands of south central Queensland (SCQ) as follows: Rhophodon moffatt sp. nov., Tristanoropa saddler sp. nov., Tristanoropa crowman sp. nov., Tristanoropa palmgrove sp. nov., Brigaloropa costulata gen. et sp. nov., Arcadiaropa sunnyholt gen. et sp. nov., Eddiea carnarvon gen. et sp. nov., Eddiea waddybrae gen. et sp. nov., Eddiea oakwells gen. et sp. nov., Eddiea bigge gen. et sp. nov., Platyumbiropa grafton gen. et sp. nov., Platyumbiropa tabor gen. et sp. nov., Carnaropa racecourse gen. et sp. nov., Carnaropa salvatorosa gen. et sp. nov. and Cineropa roma gen. et sp. nov. Elsothera hewittorum Stanisic, 1996 previously only known from Mt Rose Station, via Taroom, SCQ is given a slightly expanded range and reassigned to Cineropa gen. nov.; the range of Spiraliropa carnarvon Stanisic, 2010 described from the Carnarvon Ranges is greatly expanded to cover more of the SCQ area; and additional new SCQ locality records are provided for the continentally widespread Discocharopa aperta (Möllendorff, 1888).
Bulk tissue RNA-sequencing - hiPSC-derived astrocytes, neurons and co-cultures v1
Authors: D'Sa Karishma
Published: February 2024

Bulk tissue RNA-sequencing of hiPSC-derived astrocytes, neurons and co-cultures using the Illumina TruSeq Stranded mRNA Library Prep kit
Technologies for Designing Professional Educational Training Programs for the Digital Economy
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education ", Martynov V. V. ,   Ufa University of Science and Technology",   , Ufa, 450000, Russian Federation, Makarova S. Yu. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education "Ufa University of Science and Technology", Ufa, 450000, Russian Federation
Published: February 2024

In this article, the authors consider the issues of training qualified personnel for the digital economy at the present stage of higher education development. The article describes the relationship between the emergence of new technologies and high-tech industries and the emergence of new directions and specialties in the field of higher education, requiring students to master new competencies. The concept of "competence" and the problems of implementing the competence approach in the system of higher professional education are investigated. The main definitions and principles of the competence approach to the design of educational outcomes in higher education are outlined. The analysis of published studies and presented software products devoted to the design of curricula is given. An important analytical conclusion is that one of the important points in the development of educational programs is to focus on the needs of production in young professionals with a certain set of competencies, but now most programs of higher and secondary vocational education do not have time to take into account the latest achievements in the technological and industrial spheres. The development of students’ competencies is the goal of educational programs, therefore they should be structured in such a way as to ensure the consistent and systematic development of the necessary skills and knowledge. The authors note that the competence approach in higher professional education is implemented in the form of an approximate basic educational program that forms a model of a specialist whose competencies must meet production standards to perform specific labor functions. The article sets the task to form a set of disciplines that is optimal in terms of labor intensity and levels of competence formation, allowing the most effective implementation of the competencies of a student in the bachelor’s degree direction, taking into account the level of formation and limitations of the curriculum set by the employer. The mathematical model of solving the problem and the technology of designing the optimal competence model of the graduate, taking into account the requirements of the employer, are presented.
Modified Seasonal Decomposition Variations of Earth Magnetic Field Induction Module
Authors:   Research Station of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Bishkek, Bishkek, 720049, Kyrgyz Republic, Imashev S. A. , Parov S. V. ,   Research Station of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Bishkek, Bishkek, 720049, Kyrgyz Republic
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present a modification of the classic method of seasonal decomposition of the time series, in particular its application for the analysis of geomagnetic data. Seasonal decomposition is a powerful tool for time series analysis, but its classic implementation does not always provide accurate results when the time series contains amplitude outliers and prolonged gaps. We propose a modified approach to solve this task of seasonal decomposition, by applying an average daily profile. This ensures the extraction of various anomalies in the residual component of the decomposition, in particular, global and contextual outliers, as well as disturbances due to magnetic storms in the variations of geomagnetic field induction module. Keywords: geomagnetic field, seasonal decomposition, data gaps, autocorrelation function, residual component, outliers, magnetic storm, DST index