bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rice crop insurance scheme to protect farmers from natural disaster risks: Field application experience
Authors: Anugrah Iwan S. , Hestina Juni , Pasaribu Sahat M.
Published: July 2024

Climate change has caused severe agricultural risks, especially rice as the staple food of Indonesians. Production system disruptions result in crop failure due to various natural disasters, such as floods, droughts, and intensified pest and disease attacks, which not only cause a decrease in production, productivity, and grain quality but also affect the national food security program. The Ministry of Agriculture launched a rice crop insurance (AUTP) scheme in 2015 to protect farmers from natural disasters. This study aimed to describe the implementation performance of the AUTP scheme. The method used was a descriptive analysis based on previous research results and in-depth literature reviews. As stipulated in Law No. 19 of 2013 on farmer protection and empowerment, stakeholders have widely accepted the scheme with enthusiasm. This also indicates that this instrument effectively supports farmers from risks. The dynamics of its implementation revealed the need to prepare the insurance program for other schemes and expand similar mechanisms to different strategic crops. The application of technology, such as electronic registration and payments and specific tools is highly encouraged. The government’s role and insurance companies’ involvement in the implementation should improve the performance of rice crops.
Overview of the X International Conference on Advanced Agritechnologies, Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Development (AGRITECH-X 2024)
Authors: Abrorov Akbar , Beshimov Yusuf , Kadirov Yorkin , Kovalev Igor , Urozov Mustafo
Published: July 2024

The Volume presents the proceedings of the 10th Anniversary International Conference on Advanced Agritechnologies, Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Development – AGRITECH-X-2024, held in Termez, Uzbekistan on April 29-30, 2024. This milestone event brought together leading experts in the fields of high-tech geochemical, geological, geophysical, and information technologies in agriculture; energy, oil, and gas engineering; environmental management and engineering; mining and soil processing technologies; biodiversity research and conservation methods for sustainable development; the influence of food production on the environment and sustainable systems of food technologies; agroforestry, environmental safety, green technologies, and natural resources. The conference featured a diverse representation of more than 400 participants from over 10 countries. The proceedings of AGRITECH-X 2024 are poised to have a profound impact on the agricultural technology sector, driving innovation and sustainability in the years to come. The future outlook for the Scientific Conference AGRITECH is bright, with ongoing innovation and investment driving growth and adoption.
Experimental study of the igbing properties of hydratic formation of sodium salt solutions
Authors: Gimaltdinov Ilyas K. , Stolpovskij Maxim V. , Shayakhmetov Airat F. , Kochanova Ekaterina Yu. , Gaysin Aydar R.
Published: July 2024

The paper presents some experimental studies of the process of the formation of methane gas hydrate in a cell containing in the initial state of methane and a solution of table salt. On the obtained dependencies of temperature and pressure in the cell, areas that correspond to the process of gas hydrate formation are allocated from time to time. Experimentally investigated the dependence of the start of hydratic formation on salt concentration. It is shown that with an increase in the concentration of salt in the solution, the start of hydratic formation increases according to the linear law.
ESG business transformation as a way to mitigate corporate risks
Authors: Blagova Irina , Romanishina Tatiana , Bobovnikova Alice , Kushelev Ivan , Myagkova Yuliya
Published: July 2024

In today's dynamic corporate landscape, businesses are confronted with an array of multifaceted risks. This article offers an in-depth analysis of how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles serve as a transformative approach to both address and mitigate these challenges. Beginning with a comprehensive exploration of diverse corporate risks, from operational to reputational, the research delves into the intricate ESG transformation process, detailing its stages and broader implications. Real-world case studies from prominent companies like Unilever, Tesla, and Microsoft provide tangible evidence of the profound impact of ESG integration, showcasing not only improved financial performance but also enhanced operational efficiency, stakeholder trust, and brand value. The article further presents quantifiable results, emphasizing the tangible benefits that ESG-driven companies experience, including increased market share, resilience, and innovation. In concluding, the research underscores ESG not merely as a moral imperative but as a core strategic directive, pivotal for guiding businesses towards sustainable success in the challenging 21st-century landscape.
Improving the operation process of a vane type vacuum pump for milking machines
Authors: Globin Andrey , Nesmiyan Andrey , Krasnov Ivan , Scherbakov Alexander , Vanzha Vladimir , Akhtyamova Leisan
Published: July 2024

A description is given of the improved design of a pump with a rotating casing and flexible plates, used to create vacuum in milking machines. As a result of theoretical and experimental studies, the influence of its main parameters and operating modes on the volumetric flow was revealed. The most significant factors under consideration include: the rotation speed of the rotor and pump housing, the eccentricity of the rotor installation in the housing, the ratio of the width and diameter of the rotor, the size of the gaps at the ends. An analysis of the dynamics of air pressure in the working cell of the vane pump under consideration allowed us to conclude that the proposed modernization has a small impact directly on its distribution. It has been established that the most rational value for the end gaps is 70...90 microns. Within the given dimensions of the installation, the maximum of its specific productivity was achieved at a rotation speed of the working pair of about 1750 rpm, an eccentricity of about 23 mm and a ratio of width to rotor diameter of about 1.5.
Influence of oligomeric surfactants on the strength of hard rock formations: Experimental Insights and implications
Authors: Sunnatulloev Shokirjon Sh. , Buriev Shukurullo U. , Sharipov Lazizjon O. , Zhiyanov Abdunor B.
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the influence of oligomeric surfactants on the physical properties of hard rock formations, pivotal for optimizing tunneling operations. Our findings reveal temperature-dependent solubility trends for seven surfactants in tap water, with exceptions noted for certain types. By examining adsorption-induced strength reduction mechanisms using surfactant solutions, significant potential for energy and material savings in rock disintegration processes is identified. Additionally, the study explores water absorption in various rock types and elucidates the adsorption-induced strength reduction mechanism of hard rock formations using oligomeric surfactants. Overall, our research provides valuable insights into chemical interactions between surfactant solutions and rock surfaces, offering implications for industrial applications and guiding future research endeavors.
Influence of protein feeding when growing carp in ecological conditions
Authors: Khoroshailo Tatiana , Svistunov Sergey , Kozubov Alexey , Bondarenko Nina
Published: July 2024

The article describes the results of a study on increasing the proportion of protein in feed for Parsi carp by adding rapeseed meal. In order to determine the effect of rapeseed meal as a source of additional protein for carp, it was added to the feed of the experimental group, followed by comparison of growth results with the control group, where it was not added. As a result of the research, it was established that the experimental group was ahead of the control group in terms of average weight gain by 14.61% by the end of the study. The fish selected for the study had the same weight at the beginning of the experiment, but during the experiment, individuals receiving food with a protein content of 45% at each weighing were ahead in growth of their counterparts from the control group, receiving food with 35% protein. The average weights of fish from group I were more than those from group II by 2.29, 4.98, 7.57, 9.92, 11.52, 14.13, 14.61%, respectively.
Biosorption of zinc and copper ions by immobilized yeast under aerobic and anaerobic conditions
Authors: Garanin Roman , Lykov Igor
Published: July 2024

Studies have been conducted to evaluate the efficiency of biosorption of zinc and copper ions by brewing yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae immobilized on alginates. The studies were carried out under aerobic and anaerobic conditions using calcium, calcium, magnesium, and aluminum alginates. Under aerobic conditions, when live yeast was immobilized in calcium alginate, the concentration of zinc ions in an aqueous solution decreased within 2 hours by 99.76%, and copper ions by 91.7%. Biosorbents based on a mixture of calcium and magnesium alginates work less effectively (reducing the concentration of zinc ions by 99.3%, and copper ions by 75.8%). Under anaerobic conditions, a biosorbent based on calcium alginate decreased its efficiency in the presence of zinc ions by 0.8%, and that based on aluminum alginate - by 5.4%. In the presence of copper ions, the biosorption efficiency under anaerobic conditions decreased by 2.1%–9.9%, depending on the alginate. This work demonstrates the potential of the brewing yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a calcium alginate-based biosorbent.
Prospects for obtaining new primocane-fruiting raspberry varieties in the Southern Cisbaikalia
Authors: Rachenko Maxim , Kiseleva Elena , Rachenko Anna
Published: July 2024

Studies were carried out in 2019-2022. The varieties successfully adapted to the conditions of the region were selected as parental forms. Over 170 primocane-fruiting raspberry seedlings were obtained from open pollination during the years of research, 105 of which showed primocanefruiting capacity. The selection was carried out according to the following characteristics: thorniness, early ripening, stampiness, damageability by fungal infections, the weight and size of the fruits. The overwintering of the seedlings obtained from open pollination of such varieties as Gerakl, Oranzhevoye chudo, as well as form 1-220-1 was 100%. The largest number of early ripening samples was noted among the seedlings obtained from open pollination of the Zolotyye kupola variety (26%). The largest number of stamp plants was found in hybrid progenies of the Yevraziya and Pingvin varieties (50 and 53.3%, respectively). More than 50% of the seedlings of such varieties as Gerakl, Rubinovoye ozherel’ye, Pingvin, Yevraziya, and forms 37-15-4 and 32-151-1 had hard thorns on the stems. Slightly more than 19% of the varieties had a smooth stem. As a result of the selection, early and mid-ripening genotypes of primocane-fruiting raspberry that are promising for use in breeding in the Irkutsk region were obtained.
Method of user identification based on dynamic characteristics of mobile device hardware
Authors: Salomatin A.A.
Published: July 2024

The paper considers a method of user identification based on dynamic characteristics of mobile device hardware. The characteristics include battery state, battery charge level, battery charging status, memory utilization and device orientation. All indicators can change their values over time and allow to form data sets from them for processing and analyzing in the task of user identification. The correctness of identification is determined by testing statistical hypotheses based on three criteria: one-sample Student's t-criterion, one-sample criterion for testing the hypothesis about the numerical value of variance, Kolmogorov-Smirnov criterion, as well as calculating the resulting probability, which depends on the probabilities of correct identification for each of the criteria and selected significance levels. The application of the method can improve the efficiency of user identification, which is confirmed in the experiment. For generated 100 samples of 3600 values for each investigated dynamic indicator and one data set, user identification with high value of the resulting probability was successfully performed. The results of the work are useful for their analysis and practical application, as well as the development of new methods of identification and authentication.
Research of technology for tranesterification of oils and fats on efficient catalysts
Authors: Oltiev Azim , Majidova Nargiza , Majidov Kakhramon , Maxmudov Kuvondik
Published: July 2024

The state and prospects for the development of technology for transesterification catalysts are analyzed. The technological processes of transesterification of vegetable oils and solid fats using new modifications of effective catalysts have been studied. The main changes in triglycerides in intra- and intermolecular transesterification technology have been established. The optimal technology modes have been determined to ensure the production of edible fats with the desired properties. Intra- and intermolecular transesterification of oils and fats was carried out using a standard installation. Transesterification of the fat mixture was carried out at a temperature of 55-60°C in the presence of 0.15-0.25% sodium ethoxide for 20-30 minutes. Deactivation of the catalyst, after achieving the desired degree of transesterification, was carried out with softened water introduced in an amount of 2-3% by weight of fat. The transesterification was washed with water at a temperature of 60-90°C until a negative reaction to soap. It has been established that mixtures of triglycerides, similar in molecular composition to partially transesterified fats, can be obtained by mixing the original and transesterified fat mixtures in certain proportions. This option is also feasible from an economic point of view, since it reduces waste and fat loss during the transesterification process.
Developing information security competencies of applied informatics students of agrarian universities
Authors: Titovskaia Natalia , Titovskii Sergei , Pushkareva Tatyana , Titovskaya Tatyana
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the theory and experimental verification of methods that ensure the quality of training of information security specialists for agro-industrial enterprises. Effective study of information security can be achieved through a spiral approach in the theoretical part and a practice-oriented approach in the laboratory-practical assignments, which ensures the formation of competencies in the field of study. The spiral approach implies a gradual study of theory, from the simplest to the most complex, with simultaneous consolidation of the acquired knowledge in practical classes. The practice-oriented approach consists of three stages. The first stage is the completion of educational practice at agricultural enterprises. The second stage is the mastering of laboratory practice using virtual machines for which students are given administrator rights. The third stage is a complex laboratory work to create recommendations for improving the security policy of the object under study (real enterprise of agro-industrial complex), and the development of a program containing various methods of cryptographic information protection. The approach described above has greatly improved the quality of understanding of issues related to information technology security in agriculture.
GERT method and simulation modeling for probabilistic resource analysis in agricultural processes
Authors: Ikonnikova Mariya , Kovalev Igor , Kovalev Dmitriy , Djumaeva Nozima
Published: July 2024

The article presents the results of a probabilistic analysis of resources in agricultural processes. The authors performed a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of using the GERT method for assessing the probabilistic-time characteristics of processes with simulation modeling in the Anylogic environment. For the study, the process of “Approval of an application for the purchase of agricultural products” is described. This process is first presented in the ARIS eEPC notation, and then it is translated into the GERT network. Based on the obtained model, the process completion time was predicted. The mathematical expectation and variance of the process execution were calculated. Based on the results obtained, conclusions were drawn regarding labor intensity and accuracy. It is shown that the GERT network and the simulation model are close in accuracy. However, for the given task, the GERT method is a less labor-intensive and more accurate method. This study is important for managing and optimizing processes in agricultural enterprises to improve the efficiency of decision making.
The G-pel method for determining the degree of greening of the area using the city of Penza as an example
Authors: Fedoseev Oleg , Khurnova Ludmila , Krinochkina Olga , Mamina Dinya
Published: July 2024

The possibility of using publicly available software and a satellite map to determine the extent of vegetation coverage has been studied. It is suggested to apply an express method for determining the proportion of a green area from the total area with an average error for P=0.95 12.4±3.25% using the GIMP software (G-pel method). To assess the reliability of the method, similar results obtained by the overlay grid technique were compared with those of determining the forest cover of the Volga region cities using neural networks with satellite images made by a group of Canopus-V satellites. The deviation of the G-pel method results from the results of determining the forest cover of Volga region cities using neural networks averaged 11%. The difference between the results of the overlay grid technique and the G-pel method turned out to be unreliable.
Features of silicon saturation of austenite pipe steel samples with different operating time
Authors: Lemeshko Nikita V. , Rubtsov Aleksey V. , Shermatov Jamshed N. , Chertovskikh Sergei V. , Tazetdinov Ruslan M.
Published: July 2024

In the oil refining and petrochemical industries, the problem of premature failure of furnace equipment operating at high operating temperatures due to diffusion saturation of metal with structural elements with carbon is quite acute. Sections of coils of reaction furnaces operating under severe temperature conditions are especially often rejected due to carburization. The carbon saturation of the surface layers of the metal of the pipes to different depths leads to a change in the chemical composition and mechanical properties, and as a result, to a significant deterioration in plasticity, which increases the tendency to crack. One of the most significant causes of carburization of the metal of furnace tubes is coco-deposition along the inner surface of the tubes and this leads to a more intensive rotation of the mechanism of diffusion of carbon into the metal from coke. The rate and degree of carburization can be reduced or in some cases even prevented from forming surface modified silicon-based layers since it is silicon that is a carbon antagonist. In this regard, the current topic is the study of the features of silicon saturation of the surface layer of samples of austenitic pipe steel with different operating time.
Numerical solution of differential games with electric potential distributions in some domain
Authors: Mamatov Mashrabjon , Ibragimov Nodir
Published: July 2024

Various applications of the problem of electrostatics are considered. It is shown that the Poisson equation describes the electrostatic field at the points where free charges are located. Assuming that the value of the free charge is a function controlled by two opposite sides, it is shown that for any control of the evader, the pursuer, having some advantage, can construct his control so that the potential distribution remains within certain predetermined limits. The problem of continuous pursuit by finite difference methods has been transformed into a discrete game. Using the formula for the obtained solution of a discrete equation with boundary conditions, theorems are proved on the possibility of completing the pursuit in the sense of getting into a small neighborhood of the terminal set of a discrete game. The method of normalization of the potential distribution is indicated.
Solubility of components in the system MgSO4 - HNO3∙NH(C2H4OH)2 - H2O
Authors: Mirzaolimov Akmaljon , Khamdamova Shokhida , Ergashev Dilmurod , Turdiboyev Ilxomjon , Abdrakhimova Rano , Tojiyev Ergashali
Published: July 2024

This article presents research on the study of the phase equilibrium of the physicochemical new liquid fertilizer with physiologically active substances that improve the quality and properties of fertilizers. The solubility of components in the MgSO4- HNO3·NH(C2H4OH)2-H2O system was studied using the visual-polythermal method in a wide range of temperatures and concentrations. The phase diagram delineates the crystallization fields of ice, hexahydrate, hexahydrate and anhydrous magnesium sulfate, and diethanolammonium nitrate. Solubility in aqueous systems involving magnesium sulfate and diethanolammonium nitrate has been studied, from their eutectic freezing points to -30 °C. Their solubility diagrams are plotted, at the liquidus of which the crystallization fields are delimited. As a result of studying the interaction of components in systems, it was revealed that they are of a simple eutonic type. The formation of neither new compounds nor solid solutions is observed in them. The physicochemical properties of solutions containing magnesium sulfate, diethanolammonium nitrate, and water have been studied. By identifying the optimal rheological and agrochemical properties of solutions, a basic technological scheme for obtaining a new composition of a complex fertilizer was developed.
Study of the structure and physical-chemical properties of polystyrene compositions filled with secondary kaolin
Authors: Kamalova Dilnavoz , Mardanova Yulduz , Kuvvatova Mokhinur
Published: July 2024

This article discusses the study of the structure and physicochemical properties of polystyrene compositions filled with secondary kaolin. Physicochemical processes were studied by thermo graphic analysis. The article also talks about thermo graphic studies of experimental masses, which made it possible to establish the temperature ranges of exothermic and endothermic effects, the rate of sintering processes and the nature of its course over time. In this article, a study of the thermal conductivity of soot-filled compositions based on polystyrene and polyvinylidene fluoride. Also presented are the experimental results of studies of the dependences of the thermal conductivity of compositions based on polystyrene on the concentration of soot and on temperature. The presence of reversible structural rearrangements in polymer soot-filled compositions was found.
Search for motifs, associated with response to abscisic acid in promoters of genes of Quercus robur and Populus trichocarpa plants
Authors: Malov Vsevolod , Derevshchikova Ludmila
Published: July 2024

Climate changing and increasing anthropogenic impact put more and more fertile lands under treat of degradation. To counteract this process, diverse methods, including agroforestry, should be applied, which, regarding changing environmental condition, requires development of new drought resistant tree forms and varieties. Quercus robur and Populus trichocarpa are actively used for this cause on the territories of southern Russia, their genomes are sequenced and annotated automatically, which facilitates search for potential genes of interest, which impact drought tolerance. Abscisic acid is a key participant of water deficiency and other abiotic stress response regulation, so genes, which expression is activated by it, are of interest as targets for further molecular selection and expression regulation researches. Promoter elements determining gene expression in response to this signal are already known. In the absence of experimental data about certain genes and their products, discovering such elements in their promoters allows to predict promising genes of interest with high probability. In this research, we conducted search for abscisic acid response elements ABRE and CE1 in promoters of genes of Quercus robur and Populus trichocarpa, and potential genes of interest were found.
Study of the possibility of reducing diesel exhaust gas smoke engine bio additives into fuel
Authors: Normurodov Akbarjon , Markov Vladimir , Oripov Zayniddin , Tukhtaev Bobirjon
Published: July 2024

One of the modern ways to reduce the technogenic impact of the transport sector on the environment is the expansion of the use of biofuels. The article discusses computational studies of the flow of these fuels in a sprayer using the Ansys Fluent software package. The stationary flow of the specified fuels into the sprayer of a diesel nozzle of the FDM-22 type Plant was simulated which was manufactured by the Noginsk Fuel Equipment Plant with a sprayer of the Altai Precision Products Plant was simulated. The sprayer had five spraying holes with a diameter of 0.35 mm. At the same time, the pressure at the entrance to the design area was 51.5 MPa, and the back pressures were 0.1 and 8.9 MPa. While comparing the flow of rapeseed oil, to the flow of the emulsion of rapeseed oil and ethanol has a higher injection rate. However, compared with the flow of petroleum diesel fuel, it has a lower injection rate.
Increasing the efficiency of a mining and processing enterprise based on an automated system for monitoring the lower position of the crushing cone
Authors: Taranenko Maksim , Ermolaev Denis , Minakova Irina , Bukreeva Tatiana , Parkhomchuk Marina
Published: July 2024

The article presents the automated control system developed by the authors for monitoring the lower position of the crushing cone in the KKD-1500/180-GVP (gyratory-cone crusher with hydraulic upper suspension) based on a non-contact inductive position sensor. The proposed system allows timely informing personnel about the non-regulatory lowering of the crushing cone to the lower level with prompt adoption of measures to eliminate or repair the crusher hydraulic unit, as well as constantly maintain the optimal mode of ore crushing with specified grain size. Implementation of this automated control system for monitoring the lower position of the crushing cone will reduce concentrate losses at the enterprise and increase production efficiency by minimizing specific energy consumption.
Purification of model solutions from copper(2+) ions with aqueous extracts from hydrolysates of protein-containing keratin
Authors: Aliev Togaymurot , Raximova Feruza , Husenov Kakhramon , Karimov Zokir , Akhtamov Dilshod , Bakhranova Ozoda
Published: July 2024

A hydrolysate based on keratin-containing raw materials (sheep wool) was obtained by alkaline hydrolysis. The optimal conditions of the hydrolysis process have been established. IR spectroscopic studies have shown that the assumed structure of the samples corresponds to the content of amino acids with a peptide bond in them. The experiments have determined that the greatest degree of removal of copper ions from model solutions, with a concentration of these ions of 1 mol/l, is observed when an aqueous extract from sheep wool keratin hydrolysate is added. It was found that the greatest decrease in the concentration of Cu2+ ions was observed when the extract was added to the 4 cm3 model solution and the removal of ions was 82%. The formation of amino acids with copper ions by internal complex compounds was revealed, in which the Cu(II) atom is associated with oxygen and nitrogen atoms of amino groups. In this case, chelate structures consisting of five-membered cycles arise.
Radiation assessment of the loparite ore enrichment tailings from the Umbozero mine
Authors: Krasavtseva Eugenia , Ikkonen Petr , Semushin Vasilii
Published: July 2024

The development of the mining industry inevitably has a negative impact on the environment. Sources of pollution of soils, air and water bodies can come from both operating enterprises and abandoned mines and tailings ponds. Samples of the surface layer (0-8 cm) of the loparite ore enrichment tailings, stored in the tailings of an abandoned processing plant in the Murmansk region, were collected and studied. The effective specific activity of natural radionuclides of less than 1500 Bq/kg allows the tailings to be classified as waste category I. Most of the samples belong to class II building materials. At the same time, almost all samples - 0.071 mm are characterized by an Aeff value above 740 Bq/kg, which means they belong to mineral raw materials and materials with a high content of natural radionuclides (II class of mineral raw materials and materials, III class of building materials). The established features should be taken into account when developing environmental protection measures in the zone of influence of the tailings dump and technologies for processing technogenic raw materials.
Weediness of agrocenoses in grain-fallow crop rotation depending on agrotechnological methods
Authors: Shabalkin Alexey , Vorontsov Victor , Skorochkin Yuri
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this research was to study the influence of basic tillage systems and chemicalization options on the weed infestation of agrocenoses in a grain-fallow crop rotation. The experiment was conducted at the Tambov Research Institute of Agriculture on typical, heavy loamy chernozem soil with a humus content of 6.8-7.0%. Five systems of basic tillage were studied. Three levels of mineral nutrition and two levels of plant protection were also investigated. The agrocenoses were characterized by a mixed type of weed infestation with a predominance of annual weed species. The surface treatment system led to an increase in agrocenosis infestation in terms of weed numbers by 27.6% and air-dry mass by 41.4%. Combined treatment systems helped reduce the number of weeds by 27.6 and 37.9%, and their biomass by 23.4 and 32.4%. The application of mineral fertilizers decreased crop infestation, while chemical weeding of crops reduced the number of weeds by 53.6-71.7% and the air-dry mass by 62.0-72.1%. Ploughless cultivation systems significantly reduced the productivity of arable land in the crop rotation. Traditional moldboard and combined systems provided equal output from 1 hectare of arable land.
The reliability impact of N doping on the HfO2 charge-trapping layer: a first-principles study
Authors: Ye Fengyu
Published: July 2024

This study employs first-principles calculations to investigate the defect characteristics of nitrogen impurity and oxygen vacancy coexistence within HfO2 material. We calculate the total energies of various No–Vo models at different nitrogen impurity-oxygen vacancy distances to determine the lowest energy structures. Furthermore, we compute the formation energies of oxygen vacancies in HfO2 when nitrogen impurities are present, revealing that nitrogen impurities facilitate the formation of oxygen vacancies. In addition, we conduct defect level and carrier capture energy calculations for these coexisting defects. Our defect level analysis results indicate that the No4–Vo4 coexisting defect possesses the deepest electronic defect level, suggesting its superior electron retention capability. Furthermore, our carrier capture energy calculations demonstrate that nitrogen doping enhances the carrier capture energy of HfO2 material with oxygen vacancies, thereby improving the data retention capability of the device. The findings of this study contribute valuable insights to the understanding and design of coexisting defects in experimental settings, offering potential applications in device performance enhancement.
DE SECNUM : former les futurs experts des systèmes embarqués sécurisés
Authors: Bruguier F. , Pradarelli B. , Torres L. , Benoit P.
Published: July 2024

Dans un monde de plus en plus digitalisé, le nombre d’objets connectés ne cesse de croitre. Afin d’assurer la sécurité de ce type d’objets, il est nécessaire d’en maitriser la sécurité tant au niveau matériel que logiciel. L’objectif de ce papier est de présenter une formation dispensée par le pôle CNFM de Montpellier. Ce diplôme d’établissement de niveau BAC+6 spécialisé en sécurité des systèmes embarqués allie à la fois cours théorique, mise en pratique à l’Université mais aussi en entreprise.
Nouvelles pratiques pédagogiques : Développement d’un serious game en réalité virtuelle pour la formation au risque chimique en salle blanche
Authors: Harmel J. , Briens A. , Tlili M. , Tan R. , Lincelles J-B. , Seitier Ph. , Belhaj I. , Soto-Romero G. , Auffret K. , Respaud M.
Published: July 2024

Cet article présente le projet de développement d’une application en réalité virtuelle pour la formation au risque chimique lors de la manipulation de produits chimiques en salle blanche. L’utilisation de la réalité virtuelle (VR) en enseignement et notamment préalablement aux sessions de travaux pratiques peut permettre d’améliorer l’apprentissage de la gestuelle et de la gestion du risque chimique en amont de leur entrée en salle blanche, en plaçant les étudiants dans un espace virtuel, jumeau numérique de l’espace de travail, simulant les dangers.
Du silicium au circuit CMOS. Pédagogie active par Apprentissage Par Projet
Authors: Tap H. , Tan R.P. , Bernal O. , Calmon P-F. , Rouabhi C. , Capello C. , Schauber J. , Lincelles J-B. , Gessinn F. , Caron M. , Harmel J. , Respaud M.
Published: July 2024

L’objectif de cette formation est de proposer à des étudiants de niveau Master ou Ingénieur en Electronique un module complet allant de la modélisation d’une technologie CMOS 6 µm jusqu’au test d’un circuit analogique fabriqué en salle blanche, après une étape de conception et de simulation. En s’appuyant sur les méthodes d’Apprentissage Par Projet (APP) et de pédagogies actives, cette formation favorise l’apprentissage des outils et des méthodes de conception des circuits CMOS autour de la conception et de la réalisation concrète d’un amplificateur CMOS à 2 étages répondant à un cahier des charges précis. Tout au long de ce projet d’une durée totale de 10 journées, les étudiants organisés en groupe de 4 devront analyser et confronter leurs résultats de mesures à leur étude théorique et de conception assistée par ordinateur tant pour la partie technologique (caractérisation des capacités MOS, diodes, transistors MOS) que sur les performances des circuits CMOS (bande passante, gain, slew rate, offset, consommation, plage d’entrée, de sortie).
The role of PGMs in decarbonizing the atmosphere: additive manufacturing in perspective
Authors: Dzogbewu Thywill Cephas , de Beer Deon Johan
Published: July 2024

Platinum Group of Metals (PGMs) has been at the forefront of emission control in autocatalysts and could be the driving force behind the net-zero agenda, by providing emission-free energy sources. The literature has revealed that the versatility of additive manufacturing (AM) could be used to produce intricate hierarchical structures that increase the active catalytic sites of PGMs in autocatalysts, fuel cells (FCs), and batteries with improved operational efficiency. FCs and batteries with lower PGM loads have proven to perform better than conventional manufactured energy devices with higher PGM loads. The inherent hyperlocal-on-demand nature of AM could be used to disrupt the conventional multiple energy-consuming carbon-intensive supply chain to decarbonize the atmosphere. The synergy between AM and PGMs has contributed greatly to the increase in operational performance of FCs and batteries, compelling several nations to start migrating their energy systems to eco-friendly energy systems.
Parvovirose : importance de la biosécurité dans la prise en charge d’un cas en clinique vétérinaire
Authors: Humblet Marie-France , Burnotte Priscillia , Saegerman Claude
Published: July 2024

Les maladies infectieuses sont un problème majeur pour une structure vétérinaire, surtout lorsqu’elles sont transmissibles. Il convient de mettre en place un maximum de mesures afin de réduire le risque de contamination des autres animaux, des personnes (en cas de maladie zoonotique) et de l’environnement. C’est dans un tel contexte que le concept de biosécurité prend tout son sens, par l’implémentation de mesures adéquates et adaptées.

Les infrastructures et procédures opérationnelles décrites dans cet article sont transposables à toute clinique vétérinaire dédiée aux animaux de compagnie. Elles visent à prévenir la propagation des maladies infectieuses aux autres animaux, à l’homme (en cas de zoonose) et la contamination de l’environnement.

Ces mesures reposent généralement sur :
- des aménagements et une bonne gestion des infrastructures ;
- la gestion adéquate du matériel réutilisable et de l’équipement ;
- une gestion correcte des déchets ;
- des mesures organisationnelles avec une adaptation des flux des patients et des personnes ;
- mais aussi et surtout l’adoption de comportements adéquats permettant de limiter les risques. L’implémentation de la biosécurité dans un tel environnement à risque passe aussi par la rédaction de procédures claires devant être connues de toute personne concernée par ces animaux infectieux, et consignées dans un manuel de biosécurité.
Molecular characterization of EcCLP1, a new putative cathepsin L protease from Echinococcus canadensis
Authors: Naidich Ariel , Gutierrez Ariana M. , Camicia Federico
Published: July 2024

Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato is a platyhelminth parasite and the etiological cause of cystic echinococcosis (CE), a zoonotic and neglected disease that infects animals and humans worldwide. As a part of the biological arsenal of the parasite, cathepsin L proteases are a group of proteins that are believed to be essential for parasite penetration, immune evasion, and establishment in the tissues of the host. In this work, we have cloned and sequenced a new putative cathepsin L protease from Echinococcus canadensis (EcCLP1). The bioinformatic analysis suggests that EcCLP1 could be synthesized as a zymogen and activated after proteolytic cleavage. The multiple sequence alignment with other cathepsin proteases reveals important functional conserved features like a conserved active site, an N-linked glycosylation residue, a catalytic triad, an oxyanion hole, and three putative disulfide bonds. The phylogenetic analysis suggests that EcCLP1 could indeed be a cathepsin L cysteine protease from clade 1 as it grouped with cathepsins from other species in this clade. Modeling studies suggest that EcCLP1 has two domains forming a cleft where the active site is located and an occluding role for the propeptide. The transcriptomic analysis reveals different levels of cathepsin transcript expression along the different stages of the parasite life cycle. The whole-mount immunohistochemistry shows an interesting superficial punctate pattern of staining which suggests a secretory pattern of expression. The putative cathepsin L protease characterized here may represent an interesting tool for diagnostic purposes, vaccine design, or a new pharmacological target for antiparasitic intervention.
Gesundheitsschädliche Wirkungen von Aromen in E-Zigaretten
Authors: Sommer Natascha , Franzen Klaas , Andreas Stefan , Pankow Wulf , Kunstmann Wilfried , Hanewinkel Reiner
Published: July 2024

Hintergrund Fast alle E-Zigaretten enthalten Aromastoffe, die das Produkt attraktiver machen. Bei der Bewertung von E-Zigaretten in Bezug auf die Gesundheit spielten Aromen bisher eine untergeordnete Rolle.

Methode Selektive Literaturrecherche in PubMed, ergänzt durch rechtliche Bestimmungen zur Nutzung von Aromen in E-Zigaretten.

Ergebnisse Aromen erleichtern den Einstieg in den E-Zigarettenkonsum und haben eine konsumfördernde Wirkung. Durch tieferes Inhalieren werden die Nikotinaufnahme und die Aufnahme toxischer Substanzen aus dem E-Zigaretten-Liquid gesteigert. Für einige Aromen wurden pathologische Wirkungen, additiv zu anderen toxischen Bestandteilen der E-Zigarette, nachgewiesen. Für die große Mehrzahl der in E-Zigaretten enthaltenen Aromen liegen bisher keine toxikologischen Analysen vor.

Schlussfolgerungen Die nachgewiesene konsumfördernde Wirkung und die aus präklinischen Daten extrapolierbaren Gesundheitsrisiken sind bedeutsam für die politische Diskussion eines Verbots von Aromen auch für E-Zigaretten, analog zu dem bereits geltenden Verbot von Aromen in Tabakerzeugnissen.
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of the Neonatal Sepsis Risk Calculator in a Tertiary Referral Center in Lebanon
Authors: Neaimeh Yara , Ard Natasha , Daher Darine , Abourjeili Joseph , Makki Maha , Tamim Hani , Maalouf Faouzi I.
Published: July 2024

Objective Early onset sepsis (EOS) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the newborn period. This has led to overinvestigation and antibiotic overuse, which remains a concern in EOS management. Sepsis risk calculator (SRC), a tool validated in American and European populations, aids physicians in sepsis risk stratification and has been shown to decrease antibiotics overuse for EOS. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the SRC in a tertiary referral center in Lebanon.

Methods This was a single-center retrospective cohort study, conducted at a tertiary medical center in Beirut, Lebanon, that included infants born at more than 34 weeks' gestational age between January 1, 2017 and January 1, 2019. Data was collected on risk factors for neonatal sepsis and the clinical management performed on each newborn. The SRC was used to calculate a sepsis risk score for each patient. Comparison between actual management performed and SRC recommendation was measured.

Results We reviewed 3,085 charts, out of which 257 charts were excluded. Patients were stratified into two groups: high sepsis risk and low sepsis risk. Out of the 2,828 patients included, 81 infants (2.9%) had high risk of sepsis, out of which 2 patients had positive blood cultures. There were no patients with a low SRC score who had positive blood cultures. There were no patients who were supposed to receive antibiotics per the SRC recommendation who did not undergo workup for sepsis. Implementing SRC would have prevented antibiotics administration in 42 (1.5%) patients.

Conclusion SRC was adequately capable of detecting neonates with sepsis without missing actual cases of EOS, providing initial support for its safety in the population studied. Implementing the SRC would result in reduced usage of antibiotics, laboratory tests, and admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit.
Role of Textural Analysis Parameters Derived from FDG PET/CT in Diagnosing Cardiac Sarcoidosis
Authors: Kote Rutuja , Ravina Mudalsha , Thippanahalli Ganga Rangnath , Singh Satyajt , Reddy Moulish , Prasanth Pratheek , Kote Rohit
Published: July 2024

Introduction Texture and radiomic analysis characterize the lesion's phenotype and evaluate its microenvironment in quantitative terms. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of textural features of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) images in differentiating patients with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) from patients with physiologic myocardial uptake.

Methods This is a retrospective, single-center study of 67 patients, 17 diagnosed CS patients, and 50 non-CS patients. These patients underwent FDG PET/CT for the diagnosis of CS. The non-CS group underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT for other oncological indications. The PET/CT images were then processed in a commercially available textural analysis software. Region of interest was drawn over primary tumor with a 40% threshold and was processed further to derive 92 textural and radiomic parameters. These parameters were then compared between the CS group and the non-CS group. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were used to identify cutoff values for textural features with a p-value < 0.05 for statistical significance. These parameters were then passed through a principle component analysis algorithm. Five different machine learning classifiers were then tested on the derived parameters.

Results A retrospective study of 67 patients, 17 diagnosed CS patients, and 50 non-CS patients, was done. Twelve textural analysis parameters were significant in differentiating between the CS group and the non-CS group. Cutoff values were calculated for these parameters according to the ROC curves. The parameters were Discretized_HISTO_Entropy, GLCM_Homogeneity, GLCM_Energy, GLRLM_LRE, GLRLM_LGRE, GLRLM_SRLGE, GLRLM_LRLGE, NGLDM_Coarseness, GLZLM_LZE, GLZLM_LGZE, GLZLM_SZLGE, and GLZLM_LZLGE. The gradient boosting classifier gave best results on these parameters with 85.71% accuracy and an F1 score of 0.86 (max 1.0) on both classes, indicating the classifier is performing well on both classes.

Conclusion Textural analysis parameters could successfully differentiate between the CS and non-CS groups noninvasively. Larger multicenter studies are needed for better clinical prognostication of these parameters.
Quality of Life before and after Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer Patients Measured Using an Updated Head-Neck Specific EORTC QLQ-H&N43 at a Rural Tertiary Cancer Care Center
Authors: Waghmare Chaitali M. , Pawar Hemant J. , Bhalwar Rajvir
Published: July 2024

Background Quality of life (QOL) in head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) patients from rural area is sparsely studied. Aim of this study was to evaluate the QOL before (pre-) and at first follow-up after radiotherapy (RT) (post-RT) in patients of HNSCC at a rural tertiary cancer care center (RTCCC).

Materials and Methods This analytical study commenced after an institutional ethics committee approval included HSCCC patients registered at a RTCCC from June 2019 to January 2022. Marathi version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ), EORTC QLQ-C30 (v3.0), and an updated head-neck specific EORTC QLQ-H&N43 were served to the eligible patients pre- and post-RT. Clinicodemographic details were collected from prospectively maintained hospital records. Graph-Pad, Instat-3 (California Inc) was used for statistical analysis. Effect size and minimal important change were noted.

Results A total of 100 patients completed both the pre- and post-RT (6–18 weeks post-RT) QLQ. Median age was 53 years (range: 30–78 years) and man to woman gender ratio was 4.56:1. Majority of the patients were farmer (46%), tobacco users (92%), and from middle socioeconomic class (57%). Oral cavity was the most common subsite involved (62%) and majority presented in locally advanced stage (82%) of disease.

Global health status improved significantly after treatment with a large effect size (ES = –0.84). QOL was significantly improved after treatment except for parameters depicting treatment-related toxicities, that is, dryness of mouth and sticky saliva (ES = –1.75), problem with senses (ES = –1.31), and skin (ES = –1.38).

Coronavirus disease pandemic and limitations of QLQ were few shortcomings of this study.

Conclusion There is considerable improvement in QOL in HNSCC patients post-RT except for the treatment-related toxicity domains.
The OBR and the unintended economic consequences of Mr Osborne
Authors: O’Donovan Nick
Published: July 2024

The creation of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) was heralded as a major change in UK economic governance, purporting to offer objective analysis insulated from partisan politics. In the tumultuous years since the OBR’s foundation, however, its neutrality has been disputed by critics of diverse political persuasions. Ben Clift’s new book, The Office for Budget Responsibility and the Politics of Technocratic Economic Governance, offers a nuanced evaluation of these criticisms, illuminating the subtle ways in which the OBR favours certain policy choices over others. Building on Clift’s work, this symposium article considers whether the OBR is inherently biased towards austerity and fiscal conservatism, or whether OBR scrutiny is compatible with more radical changes in the UK’s political economy.