bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tropical thermocline helps power Pacific equatorial upwelling
Authors: Brizuela Noel , Lee Chia-Ying , Sobel Adam , Seager Richard , Camargo Suzana , Zhuo Jingyi
Published: October 2024

Upwelling in the equatorial Pacific Ocean exerts a primary influence on the Earth’s climate, but there is great uncertainty on whether this influence will intensify or weaken under global warming. The dominant dynamical theory of equatorial upwelling argues that the easterly trade winds ’pull’ water up towards the surface via Ekman suction. In contrast, studies of decadal variability suggest that the subtropical cells ’push’ equatorial upwelling from below. Therefore, it is unclear whether upwelling is ’pulled from above’ by Ekman divergence or ’pushed from below’ by geostrophic convergence. Here, we use a framework of local available energetics to study the Pacific shallow overturning circulation and find that at least 20-50% of equatorial upwelling cannot be powered directly by winds along the equator, as commonly understood. Instead, this fraction of upwelling is powered by potential energy that is transferred to the thermocline via off-equatorial downwelling and diabatic processes. Water parcels holding excess potential energy in the equatorial thermocline are able to upwell without additional energy input, such that equatorial upwelling can in fact be pushed from below. The strength of this push is largely set by the trade winds, but may also be influenced by energy sources across the subtropical ocean. Unlike previous available energetics analyses of the equatorial region, our study uses complete local conservation laws that allow us to trace all energy sources and pathways. This makes our dynamical formulation particularly useful to explain variations in equatorial Pacific upwelling at interannual and decadal timescales alike.
The Art of Sleep: Examining sleep strategies in the general population with a focus on the use of music for sleep
Authors: Buus Rasmus Møller , Genovese Silvia , Jespersen Kira Vibe
Published: October 2024

Background: Insomnia is highly prevalent and associated with serious health issues. Despite the negative impact of poor sleep on mind and body, most people do not seek treatment. This study aimed to examine the strategies used to improve sleep in the general population and investigate the characteristics of individuals using music as a sleep aid.Methods: A survey was distributed via Facebook advertisements to Danish adults aged 18 and above. Among 3667 responders, a representative subsample of 1195 participants was randomly selected based on age and sex. Insomnia symptoms were assessed using the Bergen Insomnia Scale. Data analysis involved chi-square tests and logistic regression with adjustments for age, sex, education and insomnia status. Results: This study found that nearly all participants utilized strategies to aid their sleep, with the most common strategies being “following a routine” (73%), “reducing caffeine in the afternoon/evening” (65%) and “lowering the temperature in the bedroom” (62%). Individuals with insomnia utilized significantly more strategies compared to those without insomnia. Among the participants, 29% reported using music for sleep, with 4.5% using music almost daily. Music users tended to be younger and more likely to suffer from insomnia.Conclusions: By evaluating a broad range of sleep strategies, this study shows that people do several things to promote sleep in their daily lives. More strategies are used by people with insomnia, but people without insomnia consider specific behaviours to facilitate sleep as well. This research enhances our understanding of sleep behaviour, providing an important fundament for targeting future public health interventions to improve sleep in the general population.
Goal-directed navigation strategies in humans and deep meta-learning agents
Authors: Lan Denis C. L. , Hunt Laurence , Summerfield Christopher
Published: October 2024

Much has been learned about the cognitive and neural mechanisms by which humans and other animals navigate to reach their goals. However, most studies have involved a single, well-learned environment. By contrast, real-world wayfinding often occurs in unfamiliar settings, requiring people to combine memories of landmark locations with on-the-fly information about transitions between adjacent states. Here, we studied the strategies that support human navigation in wholly novel environments. We found that during goal-directed navigation, people use a mix of strategies, adaptively deploying both associations between proximal states (transitions) and directions between distal landmarks (vectors) at stereotyped points on a journey. Deep neural networks meta-trained with reinforcement learning to find the shortest path to goal exhibited near-identical strategies, and in doing so, developed units specialised for the implementation of vector- and transition-based strategies. These units exhibited response patterns and representational geometries that resemble those previously found in mammalian navigational systems. Overall, our results suggest that optimal navigation in novel environments relies on an adaptive mix of transition- and vector-based strategies, supported by different modes of representing the environment in the brain.
Inconclusive evidence for associations between adverse experiences in adulthood and working memory performance
Authors: Vermeent Stefan , DeJoseph Meriah Lee , Schubert Anna-Lena , Denissen Jaap J. A. , van Gelder Jean-Louis , Frankenhuis Willem
Published: October 2024

Decades of research have shown that adversity tends to be associated with lower working memory (WM) performance. This literature has mainly focused on impairments in the capacity to hold information available in WM for further processing. However, some recent adaptation-based studies suggest that certain types of adversity can leave intact, or even enhance, the ability to rapidly update information in WM. One key challenge is that WM capacity and updating tasks tend to covary, as both types of tasks require the creation and maintenance of bindings in WM; links between mental representations of information in WM. To estimate the associations between adversity and different processes in WM, we need to isolate variance in performance related to WM capacity from variance in performance related to updating ability. In this Registered Report, participants from the Dutch Longitudinal Internet studies for the Social Sciences (LISS) panel completed three WM tasks: two complex span tasks and a task measuring both binding and updating of information. In addition, we estimated participants’ exposure to neighbourhood threat, material deprivation, and unpredictability. We estimated associations between the three types of adversity and latent estimates of WM capacity and updating using structural equation modeling. We did not find consistent associations between adversity and WM capacity or updating, nor did we find evidence that the associations were practically equivalent to zero. Our results show that adversity researchers should account for overlap in WM tasks when estimating specific WM abilities.
Atypical Tactile Preferences in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Reduced Pleasantness Responses to Soft Objects Resembling Human Body Parts
Authors: Kitada Ryo
Published: October 2024

Touching an object can elicit affective sensations. Because these sensations are critical for social interaction, tactile preferences may be adapted to the characteristics of the human body. Our group has demonstrated that compliance (a physical correlate of softness) increased the tactile pleasantness of a deformable surface until it reaches around the same level as those of human body parts. However, individuals such as those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often avoid being touched by others. Does ASD have atypical affective response patterns to soft objects like human body parts? Herein, adults with ASD and typically developed (TD) adults numerically estimated the perceived pleasantness or softness while lightly pressing urethane rubbers with their right index fingers. The results revealed that pleasantness increased as a function of compliance, but this increase was smaller for ASD than TD, particularly at compliance levels including human body parts. However, the perceived softness increased as a function of compliance similarly between the ASD and TD groups. This result demonstrates an atypical preference of ASD individuals for soft objects, which may explain the avoidance of ASD to social touch.
Predicting preventative effects of cognitive control training in remitted depressed individuals: A machine learning approach
Authors: Vander Zwalmen Yannick , Koster Ernst H. W. , Demeester David , Baeken Chris , Verhaeghe Nick , Hoorelbeke Kristof
Published: October 2024

Background: Residual cognitive complaints are frequently observed in remitted depressed individuals (RMD), which can impair full recovery and increase the likelihood of recurrent episodes of depression. Cognitive control training has shown potential as a preventative intervention in RMD with small to moderate effect sizes, but substantial heterogeneity in effects between individuals exists.Objective: This study aimed to identify individual characteristics associated with treatment response to CCT in RMD participants using machine learning models.Methods: A sample of 227 RMD participants underwent a CCT regimen of at least 10 sessions. Three machine-learning models were evaluated: logistic regression, random forest, and XGBoost, alongside one random classifier benchmark. Performance metrics, including accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and AUC-ROC were computed. The importance of individual features in predicting preventative effects was assessed using SHAP values.Result: All models demonstrated low performance, despite different machine learning methodologies and robust analyses. The random forest model scored the highest performance, although this was still considered low (accuracy: 0.52; AUC-ROC: 0.46). Exploratory feature importance analysis revealed that age, sense of well-being, and life satisfaction were important variables in the models, while current use of psychotherapy, number of prior depressive episodes, and a history of inpatient treatment were not.Conclusion: All models performed poorly, indicating that baseline characteristics did not confidently predict CCT preventative effects in this RMD sample. Exploratory feature analysis proposed some variables that increase the likelihood of benefiting from CCT, as well as indicated that most demographical variables did not strongly affect treatment effects, suggesting that CCT may be suitable for a broad range of RMD individuals.
When the days are(n’t) numbered: Calendar calculations in transparent and opaque systems
Authors: Zhuang Ziyi , Vanek Norbert
Published: October 2024

Calendar calculations, the process of computing the target day or month, exhibit peculiar differences across languages. In systems like English, calendar labels are largely opaque (Tuesday, August), which invites calculations to rely more heavily on verbal listing. In transparent systems, like Chinese, habitual labeling of calendar terms numerically (Tuesday = day two, August = month eight) facilitates fast numerical operations instead of verbal listing. This study examines the effects that different levels of transparency of the calendar naming system may have on calculations in the speakers’ first and second language. Chinese-English bilinguals were tested alongside English and Chinese controls. Forced-choice calendar calculations (day, month, hour, and year) and self-reported strategies were used as tasks to tap into participants’ calculation speed, accuracy, and temporal reasoning. In the calculation questions we manipulated Distance (short/long), Direction (forward/backward), Input (linguistic/numerical) and Boundary (within/across). More complex Month calculations significantly differed across groups while easier day calculations did not. The English group reported reliance on verbal listing, while the Chinese and the bilingual groups preferred numerical reasoning. These findings bring new evidence for linguistic relativity in the form of modulations of calendar processing speed changing as a function of linguistic transparency, input type and task demand.
The Afterglow Inventory (AGI) – validation of a new instrument for measuring subacute effects of classic serotonergic psychedelics
Authors: Majic Tomislav , Schmidt Timo Torsten , Gröticke Anna , Gasser Peter , Richards William A , Riemer Thomas Günther , Evens Ricarda
Published: October 2024

Background: Classic psychedelics such as psilocybin and LSD are anecdotally associated with the phenomenon of "psychedelic afterglow," a set of predominantly pleasant, temporary psychological effects reported after the acute effects have subsided. Since post-acute effects are crucial for the therapeutic use of psychedelics, an instrument to systematically assess subacute "afterglow" effects is needed.Aims:To create and validate a questionnaire to quantify subacute "afterglow" effects of psychedelics.Methods: An international online survey was conducted in English and German. Participants who had consumed a psychedelic (N = 1,323) or another non-psychedelic substance (control group, N = 157) within the past four weeks were included. An initial list of 97 items was progressively reduced to 24 items.Results: A 5-factor structure best fit the data and showed high internal consistency. The factors included 1) Vitality, 2) Transpersonal Aspects, 3) Inspiration/Creativity, 4) Interpersonal Relationships, and 5) Relationship to Nature. The final 24-item version of the Afterglow Inventory (AGI) effectively differentiated between the psychedelic group and the control group. The overall AGI score positively correlated with the intensity (r = 0.165; p < 0.001) and positive valence (r = 0.251; p < 0.001) of the acute psychedelic effects.Conclusions: The AGI is a novel scale for quantifying positive subacute ("afterglow") effects of psychedelics. The use of the AGI could lead to a better understanding of the interplay between acute, subacute, and long-term effects of psychedelics. Insights could also be gained into how different substances, dosages, and extra-pharmacological factors, such as psychotherapy, might influence outcomes.
Reducing the Burden of Psychological Questionnaire Measures Through Selective Item Re-Weighting
Authors: Wise Toby , Sidarus Nura
Published: October 2024

Questionnaire measures are central to many areas of study within the psychological sciences. However, they often place a heavy burden on participants; questionnaires are frequently lengthy and unengaging, and with participants often required to complete multiple measures within a single study this results in lower data quality, increased cost, and a poor participant experience. Here, we introduce a straightforward method for creating short versions of existing measures that are able to accurately determine participants’ sum scores, subscale scores, or factor scores. Our method, referred to as Factor Score Item Reduction with Lasso Estimator (FACSIMILE) uses lasso regularised regression to select items and weight them such that true scores can be predicted accurately from a reduced item set. We demonstrate the performance of this method on an example dataset, and provide code and guidance for implementing the approach.
The night before or the morning after: Coup risk, failed coup attempts, and minister removals in autocracies
Authors: Oswald Christian , Walterskirchen Julian , Häffner Sonja , Binetti Marco Nicola , Dworschak Christoph
Published: October 2024

When do autocrats replace their ministers? Research suggests that failed coup attempts lead autocrats to remove disloyal ruling elites. While this is an important and intuitive finding, failed coup attempts are very rare events and hence leave large amounts of variation in minister removal unexplained. It also portrays autocrats as reactionary, whereas previous work suggests that they are anticipatory and survival-seeking. We argue that autocratic leaders are strategic actors who take preemptive action against potentially disloyal elites, rather than risking a coup attempt being realized. Using structural coup risk as a lower estimate of a leader's own perception of coup risk, we find that it significantly contributes to the prediction of minister removals. Contrasting its effect to that of failed coup attempts, we find that it substantially improves predictive performance across a number of metrics. Our findings contribute to nascent research on government stability and autocratic leader survival.
Community Engagement in Local Governance
Authors: Guragain Govinda Prasad
Published: October 2024

Community engagement in local governance is crucial for effective and inclusive decision-making. Lack of Awareness and Information has been found that limited knowledge can have its community members may not fully understand the governance processes or their rights and responsibilities. Information gaps have been found that the insufficient information about local issues and decision-making processes can hinder meaningful participation. Low Participation Rates have been found that apathy and disinterest is that some community members may be disengaged due to a lack of trust in the system or a perception that their participation will not make a difference. Barriers to access has been found that the physical, economic, or social barriers may prevent certain groups from participating, such as the elderly, disabled, or economically disadvantaged.
During the initial phase (2008-2013) of the Local Governance and Community Development Program (LGCDP) in Nepal, social mobilization emerged as one of its most effective components. Approximately 1 million citizens actively influenced local government decisions, leading many local bodies to develop annual plans that more accurately addressed the needs of citizens, particularly marginalized and disadvantaged groups. However, there remain several lessons to be learned in addressing the challenges of implementation. It is crucial to harmonize local social mobilization efforts and enhance the quality and support of social mobilization initiatives across Nepal. Addressing the challenges of community engagement in local governance involves a multifaceted approach that includes enhancing communication, building capacity, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring accountability. Public education campaigns have been found to Conduct outreach programs to educate community members about their rights, governance processes, and how they can participate. Workshops and training have been identified to offer workshops and training sessions to increase understanding of local governance and decision-making procedures. Diverse engagement channels have to utilize multiple platforms for engagement, including town hall meetings, online forums, surveys, and community events, to reach a broader audience. Inclusive scheduling has to schedule meetings and events at times that are convenient for different community groups, including evenings and weekends.
Factors Affecting Investment Decisions in Nepali Stock Market: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lamichhane Baburam
Published: October 2024

The study examines factors influencing investment decisions in the Nepali stock market. It employs a thorough review methodology, drawing on past research across various stock market conditions. By analyzing relevant concepts, findings, and conclusions from these studies, it provides insights specific to the Nepali context. Key factors identified include market environment, investment motives, information availability, third-party opinions, the company's reputation, and herding behavior. The study highlights the importance of aligning investment strategies to achieve both long-term gains and short-term profits. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for diversification by building an investment portfolio to mitigate risks and enhance returns in the Nepali stock market.
The Death Knell for Joy?
Authors: Trojanowska Tamara
Published: October 2024

The essay explores the puzzling relationship between joy and the problems of postmodern culture, which affect the quality of our being in the world. Reflection on the precarious status of joy and its uncertain position in contemporary culture allows for a unique perspective on this relationship. The higher the political, economic and social stakes, the more the search for joy becomes a search for meaning, an essential nourishment for cultural forms. Such joy, filtered through our struggles with life’s challenges, compels us to examine the consequences of its absence (pain, suffering, joyless existence) and its manifestations in art (music), religion (Christianity), and philosophy (freedom). The power of joy lies in recognizing the inevitable imperfection of all solutions to our problems that do not include it as a fundamental component of life.
Research of the regulator of an expander-generator unit
Authors: Кulinchenko Heorhii , Panych Andrii , Masliennikov Andrii , Leontiev Petro
Published: October 2024

The relevance of research is determined by the tasks of increasing the efficiency of alternative and renewable energy power plants. The purpose of the work is to develop a method of coordinating the settings of the automatic excitation regulators and the speed of rotation of the rotor of the generator from the vortex installation of the expander-generator unit, which is part of the autonomous power consumption network. To achieve the goal, the methods of mathematical modelling in the MATLAB environment, physical modelling, processing of experimental data, theory of automatic control, theory of magnetic field, theory of electric machines, programming of microprocessor devices were used. Considering the need to expand the base of alternative energy sources, the task of controlling the energy plant for the utilization of excess pressure of gas transportation networks was considered. The study of the regulator of the expander-generator unit was based on a model reflecting the interaction of mechanical and electrical processes. A set of nonlinear differential equations corresponded to the description of these processes. Accurate consideration of nonlinearities of the considered control object complicates the implementation of the corresponding microprocessor control systems. Modelling is aimed at achieving a compromise between the required accuracy of object control and the possibilities of simplifying the object control structure. The use of experimental and datasheet data of the devices made it possible to evaluate the dynamics of turbine rotation and voltage generation, forming the factors for the untying of the control circuits. The use of MATLAB with the Lookup Table option made it possible to perform a multi-point linearization of the nonlinear description of the process, speeding up the modelling and adjustment of the regulator. This is important to incoordinate the settings of the frequency control loops and the output voltage, given the trade-off between the speed of the regulator and the minimization of oscillations in the generation frequency. Based on the obtained results, a regulator of the expander-generator unit was developed, which ensures the stabilization of the initial parameters of the unit under the conditions of electrical load disturbances. In practice, the obtained data can be used in the integration of renewable energy sources into the general energy system through the optimization of the operation of generators
Features of multi-agent evaluation of of microgrid systems efficiency in parallel operation with the power system according to the reliability criterion
Authors: Gai Oleksandr , Novoseltsev Oleksandr , Vorushylo Anton , Khomyak Olga , Gai Hanna
Published: October 2024

Ensuring reliable electricity supply to consumers in the face of destruction of critical energy infrastructure and shortage of generating capacities in Ukraine requires the development of distribution systems and their management systems. The purpose of the study was to substantiate the development of models for ensuring the optimal structure of electrical distribution networks under the conditions of connecting micro-networks according to the reliability criterion in conditions of limited investments. The paper uses a method for assessing the structural reliability of complex electrical systems with microgrid structures and forms a rational power distribution of such structures according to the criterion of optimising the reliability indicators of the studied electric power system. A mathematical optimisation model based on a computational system was proposed, designed to solve non-convex problems with minimising integral reliability indicators, considering financial constraints and the investment efficiency curve. Based on the research, the possibilities of optimisation using the BARON solver available on the NEOS server were examined. The results of the model’s performance are demonstrated using examples, considering the parameters of distribution system objects and their limitations on network components. An algorithm and programme for solving the problem of targeting power flows of microgrid structures in multi-node regional power systems are proposed. Algorithms and scenarios for the response of dispatching services are developed, provided that investments are limited, which will ensure the survivability of the power system as a whole. It is established that the development of rational electricity flows of microgrid structures will minimise the under-supply of electric energy by specific load nodes and determine their shares in covering the demand of the energy island in conditions of power shortage. The findings can be used in the operational management of power systems
MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF EROSION PROCESSES IN THE NORTH CAUCASIAN REGION
Authors:   Kabardino-Balkarian State Agrarian University, Aslan K. Apazhev , Yuri A. Shekikhachev ,   Kabardino-Balkarian State Agrarian University, Taimira Kh. Pazova ,   Kabardino-Balkarian State Agrarian University, Vyacheslav B. Dzuganov ,   Kabardino-Balkarian State Agrarian University, Ruslan A. Balkarov ,   Kabardino-Balkarian State Agrarian University, Amur G. Fiapshev ,   Kabardino-Balkarian State Agrarian University
Published: October 2024

Erosion processes are commonly found on the sloping lands of the North Caucasus region during crop growing operations. The processes are caused by a particular combination of natural conditions. Climatic conditions, topography, geological structure, soil features and vegetation cover are of equal significance. The effect of climatic conditions on erosion processes is diverse, but the precipitation and wind are crucial in the case. Thus, the study was conducted to substantiate the main analytical patterns that characterise soil erosion. The basic principles of higher mathematics, theoretical mechanics and strength of materials were the basis for the study. Analytical dependencies were identified to establish the final velocity of a falling raindrop, taking into account the influence of the wind on the trajectory of raindrop movement since rains are often accompanied by winds with a high speed. The study also established a dependence of the angle of incidence for a raindrop on its diameter at different wind speeds. A mathematical expression was obtained to calculate the time of raindrop fall depending on the height of the rain clouds. The trajectories of movement for a raindrop with a diameter of 5 mm were plotted at various wind speeds (5, 10, and 15 m/s).
INCREASING THE BIOLOGICAL VALUE OF PROCESSED CHEESES BY ADDING WILD-GROWING PLANT RAW MATERIALS
Authors:   Arctic State Agrotechnological University, Eliseeva Lyudmila I.
Published: October 2024

The paper is devoted to the wild-growing plant raw materials used to increase the biological value of processed cheeses. Wild plants of Yakutia are a valuable source of food products. Adding food plants to dairy products enriches them with vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and improves their taste qualities. The most commonly used plant is wormwood (Artemisia vulgaris). Wormwood is harvested before flowering in June. Another plant is flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus), which is often called “Yakut bread” by Yakuts. Studies have shown that introduction of flowering rush into food has a positive effect on human health. Particularly, it is effective for disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Rose hips have a hematopoietic effect; they improve the body’s resistance to harmful environmental impacts, accelerate healing of wounds and bones, regulate the gallbladder and liver, perfectly fight spring vitamin deficiency and exhaustion. The described plants and rose hips are of great interest as an additional source when creating compound products with balanced protein. They are good for improving the organoleptic characteristics of processed cheeses. The study examined wild-growing plants that were added to the recipe of the processed cheese: Dutch cheese, milk powder, wild-growing plant raw materials (wormwood leaves, flowering rush, rose hips). The study established the balanced amino acid composition and examined the quality of dairy raw materials (Dutch cheese, milk powder) and wild-growing plants. The digestibility of the product was 96–98 %. The use of wild-growing plant raw materials for processed cheese production balanced the amino acid composition, increased the product value, enriched the product with minerals, vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, and diversified the product range.
OPERATING MODES OF EQUIPMENT IN THREE-PHASE FOUR-WIRE ALTERNATING SINUSOIDAL CURRENT CIRCUITS
Authors:   Tyumen Industrial University, Kizurov Anatoly S. , Basumatorova Ekaterina A. ,   Tyumen Industrial University
Published: October 2024

When substantiating the relevance of the development of non-contact switching devices that provide the redistribution of single-phase loads in three-phase four-wire AC sinusoidal power supply systems. Attention was paid to the modes of operation of the equipment and methods of their calculation. The results of the analysis of operating modes encountered in real electrical installations and having a negative impact on the quality of power supply are presented. The need to apply the data obtained during the development of measures to improve the quality and reliability of power supply was revealed as a result of the analysis of the operating modes of four-wire power supply systems with single-phase consumers.
PALINOLOGICAL RESEARCH OF HONEY IN THE REPUBLIC OF BURYATIA
Authors:   Buryat State Agricultural Academy named after V.R. Filippov, Radnaeva Gerelma S. , Tomitova Elizaveta A. ,   Buryat State Agricultural Academy named after V.R. Filippov, Ochirova Luiza A. ,   Buryat State Agricultural Academy named after V.R. Filippov
Published: October 2024

In recent years, agricultural production has been given the strategic task of intensifying and strengthening the production of a quality food product. Many experts testify that indicators regulated by documents, although providing sufficient information about the quality of honey, they do not allow characterizing some properties, for example, its botanical origin. The botanical type of honey is substantiated by the nectar collection area. In practice, examples are given when natural honey is falsified by introducing various impurities into it. For example, they falsify with sugar, flour, starch, sugar syrup, starch and sugar syrup, artificial honey. Palynological analysis is the most objective method for assessing the botanical origin of honey, on which many of its value and quality characteristics depend. The goal is to study the palynological composition of honey obtained in the conditions of the Republic of Buryatia, identify falsification and confirm naturalness. The studies were carried out using a Carl Zeiss Primo Star microscope. The morphometric study was carried out on a Carl Zeiss Primo Star microscope at a magnification of about 10, volume 5 in the program Zeiss Efficien tNavigation (ZEN). Results: Microscopic examination revealed crystals of various shapes in the samples: needle-shaped, star-shaped, irregular and regular geometric shapes. In natural honey, crystals should only be needle-shaped and star-shaped. According to the results of the research, it was revealed that crystals were found in 40 % of the studied samples, namely, regular and irregular geometric shapes. This indicates that honey samples are falsified and made by bees using sugar syrup or sugar. Based on a palynological study, pollen grains were found in all 20 samples studied, corresponding to their botanical origin. Solitary pollen grains of other associated plants were also found. This method of analyzing honey allows you to detect falsification of a product with sugar or powdered sugar under a microscope, as well as fungal spores, pollen grains of plants.
EFFECT OF THE SEEDING RATE ON YIELD AND GRAIN QUALITY OF CORN HYBRID SHIKHAN
Authors:   Bashkir State Agrarian University, Akhiyarov Bulat G. , Alimgafarov Rail R. ,   Bashkir State Agrarian University, Abdulvaleev Rishat R. ,   Ufa State Petroleum Technical University, Akhiyarova Luiza M. ,   Bashkir State Agrarian University, Valitov Azat V. ,   Bashkir State Agrarian University
Published: October 2024

The article examines the yield and grain quality of the Shikhan corn hybrid with varietal characteristics in the conditions of the Republic of Bashkortostan. For a trial, a new hybrid, ‘Shikhan’, was taken. The hybrid was selected in the conditions of the republic by the All-Russia Research Institute of Maize and Bashkir State Agrarian University. In 2021, the Shikhan hybrid (FAO 170) was included in the State Register of Selection Achievements. The objective was to develop an adapted technology of corn cultivation for this variety. Studies were conducted in 2021–2023 in the conditions of the southern forest-steppe of the Republic 12 of Bashkortostan. The studies have shown that the plant density has an effect on the yield of green mass, grain and the corn grain quality. The research has revealed that the seeding rate (80 thousand units per hectare) ensures the highest yield of green mass and corn grain per unit area. Applying the grain technology in cultivation of corn hybrid Shikhan can yield 6.51 t/ha of corn grain and 38.71 t/ha of green mass.
MICROPLASTIC CONTAMINATION OF BOTTLED ICED TEA
Authors:   South Ural State University (national research university), Lukin Aleksandr A. , Kaluzhina Olesya Yu. ,   South Ural State University (national research university)
Published: October 2024

Due to the increase in plastic production and use around the world in recent years, the amount of microplastics accumulating in the environment has also increased. This dangerous pollutant has penetrated 129 not only into all ecosystems, but even into food and water. This study focused on the presence and prevalence of microplastics in seven iced tea brands. Using FT-IR spectroscopy and microscopic examination, microplastic particles were detected in all iced tea samples studied. It was found that not only water, but also the production process itself and auxiliary raw materials can be sources of microplastic pollution. The chemical components of these microplastic polymers were polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene and polyamide, and fibers were the predominant particle form. Preliminary data from the study on microplastic contamination in soft drinks may be useful for further assessing the health risks of microplastics.
THE EFFECT OF NEW PREBIOTIC FEED ADDITIVE ON LARGE WHITE BREED PIGS NATURAL RESISTANCE
Authors:   Volga Region Research Institute of Manufacture and Processing of Meat-and-Milk Production, Gorlov Ivan F. , Slozhenkina Marina I. ,   Volga Region Research Institute of Manufacture and Processing of Meat-and-Milk Production, Mosolov Alexander A. ,   Volga Region Research Institute of Manufacture and Processing of Meat-and-Milk Production, Nikolaev Dmitriy V. ,   Volga Region Research Institute of Manufacture and Processing of Meat-and-Milk Production, Mironova Irina V. ,   Bashkir State Agrarian University,   Ufa State Petroleum Technological University, Shakhbazova Olga P. ,   Don State Agrarian University, Radjabov Rasim G. ,   Don State Agrarian University
Published: October 2024

In the presented article, the effectiveness of the influence of new feed additives “Lactuvet-1” and “Lactu-Super” in feeding large white piglets in the conditions of the Lenin Surovikinsky district of the 49 Volgograd region on the formation of their meat productivity has been studied and the level of natural immunity of animals in a comparative aspect has been assessed. Large white ruminants at the age of 2 months were distributed into three groups of pairs of analogues of 30 heads to conduct the experiment. Experimental young animals included in the control group received a classic diet (KR); analogues of group I – KR + “Lactuvet-1” in a dose of 0.5 % of the mass of concentrated feed; group II – KR + “Lactu-Super” in an amount of 0.5 % of the mass of concentrated feed. It was found that over the entire period of the experiment, the animals of groups I and II exceeded the control group by an average daily increase of 31.7 g, or 4.41 % and 55.00 g, or 7.42 %. Studies have shown that the blood of piglets of groups I and II contained more erythrocytes, leukocytes and hemoglobin by 0.05 · 1012/l, or 0.72 % and 0.12 · 1012/l, or 1.72 %; 0.17 · 109 /l, or 1.37 % and 0.41 · 109 /l, or 1.08 %; 2.01 g/l, or 1.55 % and 2.33 g/l, or 1.80 % compared to animals of the control group. In the course of the experiment, a high natural resistance was established in the body of animals receiving the tested feed additives “Lactuvet-1” and “Lactu-Super” in comparison with analogues of the control group. In general, lactulose-containing feed additives “Lactuvet-1” and “Lactu-Super” had a rather significant positive effect on the increase in live weight, the content of shaped blood elements, the level of natural resistance and the composition of immunoglobulins. The feed additive “Lactu-Super” has the greatest efficiency
COMPARATIVE EFFECTIVENESS OF COMPLEX TREATMENT OF BRONCHOPNEUMONIA OF YOUNG ANIMALS WITH THE USE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS
Authors:   Bashkir State Agrarian University, Ilyasova Zuleikha Z. , Andreeva Alfia V. ,   Bashkir State Agrarian University
Published: October 2024

Among the many diseases of young animals that can be caused by housing and feeding conditions, the majority are non-communicable diseases. Thirty percent of these are diseases associated with respiratory diseases. According to statistics, they rank second among respiratory system diseases. The wide spread of this disease is often associated, first of all, with a decrease in the resistance of animals. Resistance can be reduced due to improper housing, feeding, dampness and gas pollution in the premises where animals are kept, overcrowding, in which diseases are easily transmitted by airborne droplets. As a result of the studies, it was established that bronchopneumonia is widespread among young animals. Sick calves present with lethargy, depression, signs of damage to the respiratory system, an increase in body temperature by 1–2 °C, increased respiratory movements and heart contractions. A blood test reveals erythrocytosis, anemia, leukocytosis, eosinophilia and basophilia. For effective treatment, it is recommended to use a 5 % glucose solution, a vitamin complex - Vitam, Streptomycin sulfate, Calcium gluconate and inhalation of resorcinol with lactic acid.
ENZYME-LINKED IMMUNOSORBENT ASSAY FOR ASSESSING POST-VACCINAL IMMUNITY TO CLASSICAL SWINE FEVER VIRUS
Authors:   Federal Center for Toxicological, Radiation and Biological Safety, Nasyrov Shamil M. , Ahunova Alsu R. ,   Federal Center for Toxicological, Radiation and Biological Safety, Samerkhanov Ilnur I. ,   Federal Center for Toxicological, Radiation and Biological Safety, Gorbunova Mariya E. ,   Federal Center for Toxicological, Radiation and Biological Safety, Galeeva Antonina G. ,   Federal Center for Toxicological, Radiation and Biological Safety, Andreeva Alfia V. ,   Bashkir State Agrarian University
Published: October 2024

Classical swine fever (CSF), being a particularly dangerous transboundary disease of pigs of all breeds and ages, remains one of the most important threats to the global pig industry. An urgent task is the development of new recombinant vaccines that meet the requirements of the DIVA strategy. No less important is the issue of equipping preventive means with accurate and rapid diagnostic test systems that allow assessing the intensity of post-vaccination immunity in target animals. The purpose of this study is to construct an enzyme-linked immunosorbent test system for indicating antibodies to the CSF virus based on a recombinant antigen. Specific components of the test system were obtained using genetic engineering and biochemical methods. Optimization of the ELISA protocol was carried out on a sample of immune and normal pig sera with variations in parameters (time and temperature of sensitization, working concentrations of specific components, reaction time). Determination of the analytical characteristics of the test system included tests for specificity, sensitivity limit, positive-negative threshold, and intra-laboratory reproducibility. It was found that the following parameters are optimal for performing ELISA: sensitizing antigen concentration – 50 ng per well, sensitization time – 3 hours at 37 °C or 12 hours at 4 °C; dilution of the antispecies conjugate is 1:50000, binding time to the enzymatic label is 45 min. The analytical sensitivity limit of the test system was 190 ng/ml for protein, the intra-laboratory reproducibility of results between wells of one plate was no less than 95 %, between individual plates was no less than 93 %. The developed ELISA test system, which has high sensitivity and specificity, can be recommended for assessing the effectiveness of vaccination against CSF.
Expert consensus on the clinical application of cortical bone trajectory for lumbar pedicle screws: results from a modified Delphi study
Authors: Zhang Yiqi , Liu Jingwei , Yang Honghao , Wang Qiang , Hai Yong , Liu Yuzeng
Published: October 2024

Study Design: A modified Delphi study.Purpose: This study sought to establish expert consensus on the use of cortical bone trajectory (CBT) for lumbar pedicle screws.Overview of Literature: The CBT technique is widely used in the treatment of various degenerative lumbar diseases because it reduces surgical time, soft tissue exposure, and blood loss; improves biomechanical stability; and allows for faster patient recovery. However, as an emerging surgical technique, CBT remains controversial in terms of preoperative evaluation methods, key surgical techniques, complication prevention and treatment, postoperative follow-up, and other aspects, resulting in unclear indications and contraindications for some doctors and posing great challenges to the steady promotion of this technique.Methods: From May 2021 to August 2021, panelists were chosen to collect expert feedback using the modified Delphi method, and 74 spine surgeons from across China agreed to participate. Four rounds were conducted: one in-person meeting and three subsequent survey rounds. Each question received at least 70.0% agreement, indicating a consensus. The grade A, B, and C recommendation were defined as having ≥90.0%, 80.0%–89.9%, and 70.0%–79.9% agreement on each question, respectively.Results: The panelist group consisted of 74 experts, and 72, 70, and 69 questionnaires were collected in three rounds, respectively. In total, 24 questions with 59 options reached consensus after the Delphi rounds, including indications (adjacent vertebral diseases after lumbar internal fixation) and contraindications (previous surgery or bone destructive diseases lead to the destruction or absence of bone in the lamina or isthmus); advantages (intraoperative traction of paravertebral soft tissue is small) and disadvantages (not three-column fixation.); preoperative evaluation; complications; and postoperative follow-up evaluation, of CBT.Conclusions: The modified Delphi method achieved expert consensus on the clinical use of CBT for lumbar pedicle screws. This consensus document establishes clear guidelines for indications, contraindications, surgical techniques, and postoperative management, thereby enhancing clinical decision-making and promoting the safe and effective use of CBT. While the initial study focused on Chinese surgeons, future research will seek to validate and expand these findings from a broader international perspective.
Robotic spine systems: overcoming surgeon experience in pedicle screw accuracy: a prospective study
Authors: Kanhangad Madhava Pai , Srinivasa Vidyadhara , Thirugnanam Balamurugan , Soni Abhishek , Kashyap Anjana , Vidyadhara Alia , Rao Sharath Kumar
Published: October 2024

Study Design: Prospective single-center study.Purpose: To compare the accuracy of pedicle screws placed by freehand and under fluoroscopy and robotic assistance with intraoperative image acquisition.Overview of Literature: Pedicle screws are the most commonly used spinal anchors owing to their ability to stabilize all three spinal columns. Various techniques such as freehand, fluoroscopy-assisted, and navigation-assisted pedicle screw placements have been used with varying degrees of accuracy. Most studies on robotic-assisted pedicle screw placement have utilized preoperatively acquired computed tomography scans. To our knowledge, this is the only study in the literature that compared freehand with fluoroscopy-guided and robotic-assisted pedicle screw insertion with freehand and fluoroscopy.Methods: In this prospective study, a total of 1,120 pedicle screws were placed in the freehand group (n=175), 1,250 in the fluoroscopyassisted group (n=172), and 1,225 in the robotic-assisted group (n=180). Surgical parameters and screw accuracy were analyzed between the three groups. The preoperative plan overlapped with the postoperative O-arm scan to determine if the screws were executed as planned.Results: The frequency of clinically acceptable screw placement (Gertzbein-Robbins grades A and B) in the freehand, fluoroscopy-assisted, and robotic-assisted groups were 97.7%, 98.6%, and 99.34%, respectively. With robotic assistance, an experience-neutralizing effect implied that surgeons with varying levels of experience achieved comparable pedicle screw accuracy, blood loss, O-arm time, robot time, and time per screw. No significant difference in these parameters was found between surgeries commencing before and after 2 PM. No significant differences were noted between the planned and executed screw trajectories in the robotic-assisted group irrespective of surgical experience.Conclusions: The third-generation robotic-assisted pedicle screw placement system used in conjunction with intraoperative threedimensional O-arm imaging consistently demonstrates safe and accurate screw placement with an experience-neutralizing effect.