bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substantiation of the application rates of mineral fertilizers at the cultivation of winter wheat in the conditions of the Western Ciscaucasia
Authors:   I.T. Trubilin Kuban State Agrarian University, Onischenko L.М. , Khodorovskaya S.А. ,   I.T. Trubilin Kuban State Agrarian University, Gnoevskaya K.А. ,   I.T. Trubilin Kuban State Agrarian University
Published: July 2023

The influence of rates of mineral fertilizers on the yield and grain quality of soft winter wheat on leached chernozem in the conditions of the Western Ciscaucasia is considered. The effect of foliar fertilization with a polycomponent fertilizer Aqualis of a type 18 : 18 : 18 + 3MgO + ME on winter wheat crops in the fourth rotation of grain-grass-rowed crop rotation was studied. An agrochemical analysis of leached chernozem was carried out according to the vegetation phases of soft winter wheat: spring tillering, budding and flowering. According to the research results, the average yield of winter wheat in the control variant was 5.08 t/ha, at the application of a single rate of a complete mineral fertilizer (N40P30K20), the yield was 6.0 t/ha. The increase to the control amounted to 0.92 t/ha (18.1%). The application of double (N80P60K40) and triple rates of the mineral fertilizer (N120P90K60) increased the yield to 6.75 and 6.85 t/ha, respectively. The increase relative to the control is 1.67 t/ha (32.9%) and 1.77 t/ha (34.8%), respectively. The protein content in grains in the control variant was 10.9%, the protein yield was 553.72 kg/ha. The application of single (N40P30K20), double (N80P60K40), and triple rates (N120P90K60) of the complete mineral fertilizer increased the protein content in grains and amounted up to 11.6, 12.2, and 12.2%, protein yield – 696.0, 823.5, and 835.7 kg/ha, respectively. The gluten content in the control was 20.1%; the maximum gluten content was found in the variant when applied the water-soluble polycomponent fertilizer Aqualis at the application of a triple rate of the complete mineral fertilizer (N120P90K60) – 23.8%, which is 3.7% more than in the control variant. Foliar fertilizing with water-soluble polycomponent fertilizer Aqualis at the application of single (N40P30K20), double N80P60K40), and triple (N120P90K60) rates of the complete mineral fertilizer provided a significant in-crease in winter wheat yield, which amounted to 1.60, 2.67, and 2.82 t/ha. This is higher than the control by 31.5, 52.6, and 55.5%. The protein content in grains and protein yield when applying Aqualis at the application of the complete mineral fertilizer ranged from 12.4–12.8% and 976.5–1011.2 kg/ha, respectively.
Sterile body fluids infections: Profile of bacteria and their antimicrobial resistance pattern in a tertiary care hospital from Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Singh Peetam , Pandey Anita , Bisht Arjun Singh
Published: July 2023

Objectives:

Infections of sterile body fluids are important and significant causes of mortality and morbidity, especially healthcare-associated infections. Species-level identification and antimicrobial resistance profile of bacteria are important determinants while selecting appropriate antimicrobials for empirical and targeted therapy. We conducted this study to observe the distribution of various bacteria and their antimicrobial resistance profile isolated from sterile body fluids.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted this study in a tertiary care teaching hospital from western Uttar Pradesh for a period of 2 years. All sterile body fluid samples were processed by conventional aerobic bacterial culture followed by their identification up to species level by conventional biochemicals following standard microbiological procedures. The antimicrobial susceptibility of the bacterial pathogens grown in culture was tested by Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method and interpretation of susceptibility testing was done according to CLSI guidelines 2020.

Results:

A total of 1980 sterile body fluid samples were collected during the study period and 192 samples were found positive on culture for bacterial pathogens. Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) were predominantly isolated, comprising 83.33% in comparison to 16.67 % of Gram-positive cocci. Among Staphylococcus aureus isolates, 75% were methicillin-resistant S. aureus. All S. aureus isolates were sensitive against vancomycin and linezolid. Among GNB, 25% were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producers while 62.5% were carbapenemase producers. All GNBs were sensitive to colistin.

Conclusion:

From this study, we concluded that the pathogenic bacteria implicated in infections of sterile body fluids are predominantly multidrug-resistant. There is a huge variation in data on the distribution of bacterial species isolated from sterile body fluids and their antimicrobial resistance patterns from different geographical locations and healthcare settings. Thus, data from a particular healthcare setting are important for empirical treatment in that healthcare setting.
TREATMENT STRATEGY OF ACUTE PANCREATITIS DEPENDING ON THE DEGREE OF PANCREAS DAMAGE IN GENERAL SURGERY UNIT
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Masyukevich A. I. , Garelik P. V. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Marmysh G. G. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Mileshko M. I. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Hilmonchik I. V. ,   City Clinical Hospital №4, Grodno, Belarus, Cilindz I. I. ,   City Clinical Hospital №4, Grodno, Belarus
Published: July 2023

Acute pancreatitis (AP) still remains an urgent problem of emergency abdominal surgery. In severe forms of this disease, there are a lot of complications, that lead to high mortality rate. There are many, often conflicting, opinions about surgical approach to AP. That is why, it’s important to find the optimal algorithm for AP treatment. The purpose of the study: to analyze the surgical approach to AP treatment in general surgery unit depending on the severity of AP and the extent of pancreatic damage. Material and methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 347 case reports of the patients of Grodno City Clinical Hospital №4 with regard to the surgical approach used for the established diagnosis of AP. Results. Conservative treatment was the final strategy in 291 cases (83.86%). Minimally invasive interventions were effective in 37 out of 56 patients (66.07%); mortality at this stage was 1 patient (1.79%). There were open, mostly programmed interventions in the last stage of AP. They were performed in 19 patients, of these 4 patients (21.05%) died. Conclusions. The step-up approach (conservative treatment – minimally invasive interventions – open surgical interventions) permitted to reduce the number of open operations, as well as the overall mortality rate in the analyzed group.
THE EFFECT OF SHORT-TERM GENERAL COOLING ON THE BIOELECTRICAL ACTIVITY OF THE OCCIPITAL AND PARIETAL REGIONS OF THE BRAIN
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Miklashevich O. S. , Salauyou A. V. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Kavalchuk A. A. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Zinchuk V. V. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
Published: July 2023

Background. When exposed to cold in individuals, depending on the individual typological features of the EEG rhythm, various neurophysiological mechanisms of mobilization of functional systems are activated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of short-term general cooling on the stress resistance of the body and the bioelectrical activity of the occipital and parietal regions of the brain. Material and methods. The analysis of stress resistance and bioelectrical activity of the occipital and parietal regions of the brain in males aged 20 to 23 years after a short-term general cooling was carried out. Results. The cryotherapy procedure increased the stress resistance of the subjects, which persisted for 15 days after its termination. By the end of cold exposure, there is an increase in the bioelectrical activity of the brain in the parietal region, most pronounced for the amplitudes of β1- and θ-rhythms, and 15 days after the cessation of short-term general cooling, an increase in θ-, δ1-activity is noted. Changes in the electroencephalogram of the occipital region after exposure to cold were characterized by an increase in the amplitude of δ1- and β1-rhythms, and this trend persisted 15 days after the course of cryotherapy. In the subjects under study, interhemispheric asymmetry is noted, manifested by a more pronounced value of the amplitudes in the left hemisphere along δ1-, δ2-rhythms, and in the right hemisphere along β1 and θ-rhythms. Conclusions. The increase in the adaptive resource of the subjects caused by the influence of this factor is obviously associated with the identified changes in the bioelectrical activity of the brain in the occipital and parietal regions.
DIFFERENTIATED APPROACH TO THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF OBSTETRIC BLEEDING IN ECTOPIC PREGNANCY: A CASE FROM CLINICAL PRACTICE
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Smalei N. A. , Chvorik N. V. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Zhurun Ju. A. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
Published: July 2023

Ectopic pregnancy is a pathological condition in which the implantation of a fertilized egg occurs outside the uterine cavity. According to statistics, the most common localization of ectopic pregnancy is the fallopian tubes (98-99% of cases), while the cervix is a rare implantation site (0.1-0.4%). At the same time, analyzing the complications of the gestational process, we can say that it is cervical pregnancy that increases the risk of bleeding leading to the need for emergency surgery. The article presents a case from clinical practice that characterizes the tactics of diagnosis and treatment in case of suspected cervical pregnancy. The analysis of the management of this pregnancy proved the need for a differentiated approach to each case of ectopic pregnancy. This algorithm contributes to the rapid and accurate diagnosis and development of tactics for management pregnancy with bleeding.
A COLLECTION OF TERRACOTTA FIGURINES FROM MARGIANA (THE YuTAKE MATERIALS)
Authors: Двуреченская Н. Д.
Published: July 2023

В научный оборот вводится коллекция из восьми терракотовых статуэток, найденных в подъеме с территории столичных городов Маргианы Эрк-калы и Гяуркалы. Большая часть статуэток относится к известным и наиболее распространенным в Маргиане археологическим типам I и VIII. Остальные представлены как известными иконографическими образами, так и новыми, не находящими прямых аналогий в регионе. На примере новой коллекции отрабатывается использование разработанной ранее археологической типологии антропоморфных статуэток Бактрии, Согда и Маргианы. Несмотря на подъемный характер статуэтки из коллекции ЮТАКЭ внесли существенные дополнения в понимание развития отдельных археологических типов антропоморфных статуэток. С другой стороны, вновь подтвердилась высокая степень стан дартизации и узкий ряд иконографических образов, бытовавший в регионе в 1–3 вв. н. э. Новый иконографический образ, представленный в женской статуэтке № 8 в башнеобразной короне впервые вводимый в научный оборот, только подчеркивает этот вывод.

A COLLECTION OF TERRACOTTA FIGURINES FROM MARGIANA (THE YuTAKE MATERIALS)

This is the publication of eight terracotta figurines from chance finds at the capital cities of Margiana, Erk-qala and Gyaur-qala. Most of them belong to the most common types I and VIII. The rest include both well-known types and new ones, which find no direct parallels in the region. The classification of anthropomorphic figurines of Bactria, Sogd and Margiana developed previously has been applied to this new collection. Even though the YuTAKE1 figurines come from chance finds, they add much to our understanding of the development of several archaeological types of anthropomorphic figurines. On the other hand, they confirm a high level of standardization and a small variety of iconographic types used in the region in the 1st–3rd centuries A.D. The new iconographic type of a female in a tower-shaped crown (figurine no. 8) only strengthens the abovementioned conclusion.
Disclosing Environmental Ligands of hL-FABP and PPARγ: Should We Re-evaluate the Chemical Safety of Hydrocarbon Surfactants?
Authors: Gong Yufeng , Yang Diwen , Liu Jiabao , Barrett Holly , Sun Jianxian , Peng Hui
Published: July 2023

Chemical contaminants can cause adverse effects by binding to the liver - fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP) and peroxisome proliferator-activated nuclear receptor γ (PPARγ), which are vital in lipid metabolism. However, the presence of numerous compounds in the environment has hindered the identification of their ligands, and thus only a small portion have been discovered to date. In the present study, protein Affinity Purification with Nontargeted Analysis (APNA) was employed to identify the ligands of L-FABP and PPARγ in indoor dust and sewage sludge. A total of 83 nonredundant features were pulled-out by His-tagged L-FABP as putative ligands, among which 13 were assigned as fatty acids and hydrocarbon surfactants. In contrast, only six features were isolated when His-tagged PPARγ LBD was used as the protein bait. The binding of hydrocarbon surfactants to L-FABP and PPARγ was confirmed using both recombinant proteins and reporter cells. These hydrocarbon surfactants, along with >50 homologues and isomers, were detected in dust and sludge at high concentrations. Fatty acids and hydrocarbon surfactants explained the majority of L-FABP (57.7 ± 32.9%) and PPARγ (66.0 ± 27.1%) activities in the sludge. This study revealed hydrocarbon surfactants as the predominant synthetic ligands of L-FABP and PPARγ, highlighting the importance of re-evaluating their chemical safety.
Theoretical study and wavefunction analysis of cyclo[18]carbon-benzene dimer
Authors: Peng Fu
Published: July 2023

The structural optimization and vibration analysis of a bimolecular composed of cyclo[18]carbon and benzene are carried out by using the density functional theory based ωB97X-D3/def2-TZVP. Then based on the optimized structure, interaction energy with counterpoise correction were calculated at the ωB97X-V/def2-QZVPP level. Analyze Mayer bond order, orbital composition and weak interactions, drawn infrared spectrum, Raman, Density-of-States(DOS) and weak interaction diagram. The PSI4 software used to characterize the nature of intermolecular interaction. For the first time, we have theoretically studied the interaction between the cyclo[18]carbon and the benzene ring, providing theoretical guidance for the practical application of the cyclo[18]carbon in reality.
Water-soluble ionic carbon nitride as unconventional stabilizer for highly catalytically active ultrafine gold nanoparticles
Authors: Elnagar Mohamed M. , Liessem Johannes , Im Changbin , Mitoraj Dariusz , Kibler Ludwig A. , Neumann Christof , Turchanin Andrey , Leiter Robert , Kaiser Ute , Jacob Timo , Krivtsov Igor , Beranek Radim
Published: July 2023

Ultrafine metal nanoparticles (NPs) hold promise for applications in many fields, including catalysis. However, ultrasmall NPs are typically prone to aggregation, which often leads to performance losses, such as severe deactivation in catalysis. Conventional stabilization strategies (e.g., immobilization, embedding, or surface modification by capping agents) are typically only partly effective and often lead to loss of catalytic activity. Herein, a novel type of stabilizers based on water-soluble ionic (K+ and Na+ containing) polymeric carbon nitride (i.e., K, Na-poly(heptazine imide) = K,Na-PHI) is reported that enables effective stabilization of highly catalytically active ultrafine (size of ~2-3 nm) gold NPs. Experimental and theoretical comparative studies using different structural units of K,Na-PHI (i.e., cyanurate, melonate, cyamelurate) indicate that the presence of functionalized heptazine moieties is crucial for the synthesis and stabilization of small Au NPs. The K,Na-PHI-stabilized Au NPs exhibit remarkable dispersibility and outstanding stability even in solutions of high ionic strength, which is ascribed to more effective charge delocalization in the large heptazine units, resulting in more effective electrostatic stabilization of Au NPs. The outstanding catalytic performance of Au NPs stabilized by K,Na-PHI is demonstrated using the selective reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol by NaBH4 as a model reaction, in which they outperform even the benchmark “naked” Au NPs electrostatically stabilized by excess NaBH4. This work thus establishes ionic carbon nitrides (PHI) as alternative capping agents enabling effective stabilization without compromising surface catalysis, and opens up a route for further developments in utilizing PHI-based stabilizers for the synthesis of high-performance nanocatalysts.
Novel Optimization of Photocatalytic Degradation of Wastewater Pollutants Using Ferroelectric Materials
Authors: Rao Amrutha
Published: July 2023

Wastewater pollution has a detrimental impact on the environment, including harming aquatic ecosystems, causing eutrophication, and posing risks to human health. Existing catalysts commonly used for pollutant degradation in wastewater can demonstrate a low percent degradation of pollutants, have a high acting time, only work under limited conditions, work on a large or small scale, or possess a combination of these limitations. Piezoelectric and ferroelectric materials have been shown to have catalytic activity in degrading pollutants. Lead zirconate (piezoelectric) and strontium titanate (ferroelectric) are examples of materials that possess these properties. The purpose of this study was to utilize multiple ferroelectric and piezoelectric materials such as zirconate and strontium titanate to develop a novel catalyst to degrade pollutants in wastewater. In the conducted experiment, different ratios and combinations of lead zirconate, strontium titanate, and titanium dioxide powders were mixed and added to wastewater samples obtained from various sources. These wastewater samples included three different industrial wastewater samples and one solution of methylene blue and water. Each sample of wastewater and catalyst mixed together was left to sit under both visible and UV light under controlled conditions times and reaction times. The absorption of the wastewater was recorded at the beginning and end of the reaction periods and compared. The catalyst with a 1:1 ratio of strontium titanate to lead zirconate mixed into the third industrial wastewater sample had a 19.57% greater percent degradation efficiency than the traditionally used catalyst, titanium dioxide mixed with the same wastewater sample under the study’s experimental conditions. The different catalysts’ percent degradation efficiency was assessed through calculations with absorption levels, with a decrease in absorption indicating the breakdown of pollutants into smaller, potentially less harmful particles. The developed catalysts achieved pollutant degradation within 12 minutes as compared with existing catalysts, which typically require 90-150 minutes for wastewater treatment. These findings underscore the potential of the catalyst developed in this study, strontium titanate and lead zirconate in a 1:1 ratio, for safeguarding the environment, improving public health, preserving aquatic ecosystems, and mitigating eutrophication when used as a wastewater treatment solution.
Protein network centralities as descriptor for QM region construction in QM/MM simulations of enzymes
Authors: Brandt Felix , Jacob Christoph
Published: July 2023

The construction of a suitable QM region is the most crucial step in setting up hybrid quantum mechanics / molecular mechanics (QM/MM) simulations for enzymatic reactions. The QM region should ideally include all important amino acids residues, while being as small as possible to save computational effort. Most available methods for systematic QM region construction are based either on the distance of single amino acids to the active site or on their electrostatic effect. Such approaches might miss non-electrostatic and long-range allosteric interactions. Here, we present a proof of concept study for the application of protein network analysis to tackle this problem. Specifically, we explore the use of the protein network centralities as descriptor for QM region construction. We find that protein network centralities, in particular the betweenness centrality, can be a useful descriptor for systematic QM region construction. We show that in combination with our previously developed point charge variation analysis, they can be used to identify important residues that are missed in purely electrostatic approaches.
Reversible Hydration Enabling High-Rate Aqueous Li-ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Leiting , Kühling Franziska , Mattsson Agnes-Matilda , Hou Xu , Ek Gustav , Dufils Thomas , Zhang Chao , Brant William R. , Edström Kristina , Berg Erik J.
Published: July 2023

Two-dimensional TiS2 has been proposed as a versatile host material for various battery chemistries. Nevertheless, its compatibility with aqueous electrolytes has not been thoroughly understood. Herein, we report on a reversible hydration process to account for the electrochemical activity and structural evolution of TiS2 in a dilute electrolyte for sustainable aqueous Li-ion batteries. Solvated water molecules intercalate into TiS2 layers together with Li+ cations, forming a hydrated phase with a nominal formula unit of Li0.38(H2O)2 δTiS2 as the end product. We unambiguously confirm the presence of two layers of intercalated water by complementary electrochemical cycling, operando structural characterization, and computational simulation. Such a process is fast and reversible, delivering 60 mAh g-1 discharge capacity at a current density of 1250 mA g-1. Our work provides further design principles for high-rate aqueous Li-ion batteries based on reversible water co-intercalation.
Fast determination of weak protein-ligand affinities by STD NMR: The Reduced Dataset STD NMR approach (rd-STD NMR)
Authors: Rocha Gabriel , Ramírez-Cárdenas Jonathan , Walpole Samuel , Nepravishta Ridvan , Ortiz Carmen , Angulo Jesús , Muñoz-García Juan C.
Published: July 2023

STD NMR is a powerful ligand-based tool for screening small molecules and low molecular weight fragments for their interaction with a given macromolecule, and it has become the spectroscopic technique of choice for the study of medium/weak affinity protein-ligand interactions. In the pharmaceutical industry, there is a great interest in the accurate and fast determination of protein-fragment binding affinities, typically low. STD NMR is a uniquely suited technique to accurately determine weak proteinligand affinities. However, a drawback of the technique is that, in order to gain quantitative structural or affinity information from STD NMR experiments, long series of experiments at increasing values of the saturation time of the protein must be carried out, to get the full analysis of the so-called STD NMR build-up curve (“initial slopes approach”). To resolve this limitation, we have developed a protocol that allows to get accurate initial slopes using STD NMR data acquired at only 2 saturation times. We demonstrate that our protocol, called the Reduced Dataset STD NMR approach (rd-STD NMR), allows the very fast determination of dissociation constants of low affinity protein-ligand interactions.
Silver-Catalyzed Dearomative [2π+2σ] Cycloadditions of Indoles with Bicyclobutanes: Expedient Access to Indoline Fused Bicy-clo[2.1.1]hexanes
Authors: Tang Lei , Xiao Yuanjiu , Wu Feng , Zhou Jin-Lan , Xu Tong-Tong , Feng Jian-Jun
Published: July 2023

Bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes (BCHs) are becoming ever more important in drug design and development as bridged scaffolds that provide underexplored chemical space, but are difficult to access. Here a novel silver-catalyzed dearomative [2π+2σ] cycloaddition strategy for the synthesis of indoline fused BCHs from N-unprotected in-doles and bicyclobutane precursors is described. This strain-release dearomative cycloaddition operates under mild conditions, tolerates a wide range of functional groups and is capable of forming BCHs bearing three quaternary carbon centers with up to 99% yield, a longstanding challenge in the field. In addition, a scale-up experi-ment and the synthetic transformations of the cycloadducts further highlighted the synthetic utility.
Development of an Al-Zn-Bi alloy sacrificial anode for the protection of steel in artificial Seawater: An electrochemical analysis
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Haris , Farooq Ameeq , Wasim Muhammad , Deen Kashif Mairaj
Published: July 2023

The Al-Zn sacrificial anodes are widely used for cathodic protection in marine steel structures. This study evaluates the impact of bismuth addition on the electrochemical properties of the Al-Zn sacrificial anode in artificial seawater. The microstructure analysis confirms the presence of uniformly distributed intermetallic β-AlFeSi and spherical Bi particles within the α-Al matrix. The open circuit potential (OCP) comparison between Al-Zn-Bi and carbon steel reveals a potential difference of approximately 400 mV, indicating sufficient cathodic protection for the steel. Electrochemical impedance measurements indicate the initial hindered dissolution of the anode due to surface film formation, which later dissociates due to the aggressive attack of Cl– species in the electrolyte. The sufficiently negative surface potential (-0.875 V vs. Ag/AgCl) observed at 10 mA/cm² demonstrates the suitability of anode for fulfilling the cathodic protection criteria of steel structures.
Flavin-Cytochrome Complexes Transfer Electrons among Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 Cells
Authors: Tokunou Yoshihide , Tongu Hiromasa , Okamoto Akihiro , Toyofuku Masanori , Nomura Nobuhiko
Published: July 2023

The metabolic activity of microorganisms in multicellular assemblages is limited by structural constraints and resource availability. To overcome these limitations, some bacteria utilize electron conduction in their communities to drive their metabolism, which has led to the development of various biotechnologies, such as electrochemical microbial systems and anaerobic digestion. However, measuring the conductivity among bacterial cells is difficult when they scarcely form stable biofilms on electrodes, which renders it difficult to identify the biomolecules involved in electron conduction. In the present study, we aimed to identify the proteins involved in electron conduction in Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 and examine the molecular mechanisms. We established a colony-based current–voltage measurement system that quantifies bacterial electrical conductivity, without the need for biofilm formation on electrodes. This assay enabled the quantification of the conductivity of gene deletion mutants that scarcely form biofilms on electrodes, demonstrating that c-type cytochromes, MtrC and OmcA, are involved in electron conduction. Furthermore, the use of colonies of gene deletion mutants demonstrated that flavins participate in electron conduction by binding to cytochromes on their outer membrane, providing insight into the electron conduction pathways at the molecular level. Furthermore, the conductivity of Bacillus subtilis 3610 colonies was determined to be approximately 23 times lower than that of MR-1 colonies, indicating that this approach can be used for various bacteria, including weak electricigens. The present assay provides a platform for rapidly identifying conductive bacterial colonies and components, linking bacterial energy conservation with electron transfer in multicellular communities.
STUDY OF INTERFACIAL INTERACTIONS AND DYNAMICS IN NANO-PARTICLES WITH POLYMER SHELL BY IR SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: Рыжов В.А.
Published: July 2023

Межфазные взаимодействия и цепная динамика были изучены в четко охарактеризованных наночастицах ядро-оболочка с ядрами из аморфного кремнезема и кристаллического оксида алюминия и оболочками из не кристаллизуемого поли-(винил-1-пирролидона) (ПВП) и кристаллизуемого поли(этиленгликоль) (ПЭГ). Варьирующийся состав частиц вызывал закономерные изменения толщины оболочки от 1-2 нм (мономолекулярный слой) до 90 нм. Спектроскопия в дальнем и среднем ИК-диапазоне позволила выявить водородные связи и межфазные взаимодействия Льюиса/Бренстеда (Л-Б) в изученных системах, а также изменения динамики и конформационного состояния полимерных цепей в зависимости от толщины нанооболочки. Наиболее выраженные особенности были обнаружены для мономолекулярных полимерных слоев. Взаимодействия Л-Б были более сильными с подложкой из оксида алюминия, чем с кремнеземом. В отличие от объемного полимера монослой ПВП характеризовался необычайно неоднородностью. Монослой ПЭГ, адсорбированный на кремнеземе, был полностью аморфным, тогда как слой с аномально тонкими ламелями толщиной до 3 нм, адсорбированный на поверхности оксида алюминия, был высоко кристаллическим.

Interfacial interactions and chain dynamics were studied in well-characterized core-shell nanoparticles with cores of amorphous silica and crystalline alumina and shells of noncrystallizable poly-(vinyl-1-pyrrolidone) (PVP) and crystallizable poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). The varying composition of the particles caused regular changes in the shell thickness from 1–2 nm (monomolecular layer) to 90 nm. Spectroscopy in the far and mid-IR ranges made it possible to reveal hydrogen bonds and Lewis/Brønsted (L-B) interfacial interactions in the studied systems, as well as changes in the dynamics and conformational state of polymer chains depending on the thickness of the nanoshell. The most pronounced features were found for monomolecular polymer layers. LB interactions were stronger with the alumina substrate than with silica. In contrast to the bulk polymer, the PVP monolayer was characterized by unusually inhomogeneity. The PEG monolayer adsorbed on silica was completely amorphous, while the layer with abnormally thin lamellae up to 3 nm thick adsorbed on the alumina surface was highly crystalline.
METHODS FOR CELLULASE IMMOBILIZATION ON NANOSTRUCTURED SUPPORTS
Authors: Сульман А.М. , Балакшина Д.В. , Гребенникова О.В. , Филатова А.Е. , Матвеева В.Г.
Published: July 2023

Целлюлаза катализирует переработку отходов целлюлозной биомассы. В этом кратком обзоре анализируются основные способы иммобилизации этого фермента на наноструктурированные носители. Такие носители обеспечивают большую площадь поверхности, повышенную ферментативную нагрузку и благоприятную среду для повышения эффективности целлюлазы и ее стабильности, что приводит к созданию нанобиокатализаторов для получения различных химических соединений. В работе обсуждаются такие способы иммобилизации как адсорбция, инкапсуляция, ковалентное связывание и сшивка ферментов.

Cellulase catalyzes the processing of waste cellulosic biomass. This brief review analyzes the main ways of immobilizing this enzyme on nanostructured supports. Such carriers provide a large surface area, an increased enzymatic load, and a favorable environment for improving the efficiency of cellulase and its stability, which leads to the creation of nanobiocatalysts for the production of various chemical compounds. The paper discusses such methods of immobilization as adsorption, encapsulation, covalent binding and crosslinking of enzymes.
INFLUENCE OF THE SUPPORT AND THE SYNTHESIS METHOD ON THE ACTIVITY OF Ru-CONTAINING CATALYSTS IN THE LIQUID-PHASE FISCHER-TROPSCH SYNTHESIS
Authors: Маркова М.Е. , Степачёва А.А.
Published: July 2023

Синтез Фишера-Тпроша – важный процесс получения синтетических углеводородов из синтез-газа. Однако, на данный момент он применяется в промышленности в ограниченных масштабах, что связано с низкой активностью катализаторов, их быстрой дезактивацией, а также высокой экзотермичностью реакции. Разработка новых активных и стабильных катализаторов синтеза Фишера-Тропша является важной задачей для исследователей. В данной работе проведено сравнение методов синтеза рутенийсодержащих катализаторов, а также используемых носителей, в процессе жидкофазного синтеза Фишера-Тропша.

Fischer-Tprosch synthesis is an important process for obtaining synthetic hydrocarbons from synthesis gas. However, at the moment, it is used in industry on a limited scale due to the low activity of catalysts, their rapid deactivation, as well as the high exothermicity of the reaction. The development of new active and stable Fischer-Tropsch synthesis catalysts is an important task for researchers. In this paper, the methods of synthesis of ruthenium-containing catalysts, as well as the catalyst supports used, were compared in the process of the liquid-phase Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.
A Guide to State-Level Estimates of Labor Force Participation Rates
Authors: Elvery Joel A. , Brizuela Isabel A. , Gerring Jayme V.
Published: July 2023

Changes in the US labor force participation rates (LFPRs) have brought attention to state-level estimates. This brief discusses state-level estimates of the LFPR and what they can - and cannot - tell us about recent LFPR trends in our region.
The Anchoring of US Inflation Expectations Since 2012
Authors: Naggert Kristoph N. , Rich Robert W. , Tracy Joseph
Published: July 2023

The stabilization, or anchoring, of inflation expectations at a target can help a central bank meet its goals. This paper develops a measure of expectations’ anchoring that combines the deviation of a consensus forecast from an inflation target with forecaster disagreement. We apply the measure to survey-based forecasts of PCE price inflation at medium- and longer-run horizons. Following the FOMC’s 2012 announcement of a 2 percent inflation target, the anchoring of both forecast series steadily improved through 2020:Q4. Recently, while longer-run expectations have remained well-anchored, the anchoring of medium-run expectations weakened significantly during the pandemic before strengthening in 2023:Q1.
Giving Up on Someone
Authors: Bhardwaj Kiran
Published: July 2023

We usually think nothing of our practice of ‘giving up’ on someone who has behaviors or attitudes that are morally criticizable—after all, it is my prerogative to choose with whom I will associate, and exclusion seems to be an unobjectionable part of my toolkit of social sanctions. However, this paper will argue that it is in many cases impermissible to give up on a morally unpleasant person—in fact, it would be to make an unjustified exception for oneself.
Personalized itinerary planning using an adaptive genetic algorithm
Authors: Madhuravani  , Kakkurla Vivek , Mohammed Sammer Khan , Chinthapally Rishitha Reddy , Kodiganti Shiva Prasad
Published: July 2023

Planning an itinerary for travelling can be tedious, time-consuming, and challenging. This is especially true for tourists who have limited time budgets and are unfamiliar with a wide range of Points-of-Interest (POIs) in a city. To address this challenge, this paper proposes an Adaptive Genetic Algorithm (AGA) for personalized itinerary planning. This approach considers travelers' preferences, such as mandatory POIs, total number of POIs, POI popularity, POI cost, and POI rating. It views the itinerary planning problem as a multi-objective optimization problem and proposes an Adaptive Genetic Algorithm (AGA) to solve this problem. The results show that the AGAM algorithm is a promising approach for personalized itinerary planning. It is able to find itineraries that meet the traveler's preferences that are efficient in terms of time, cost, and overall rating.
Improving the performance and reliability of RPL networks through security analysis and QoS support
Authors: Viju Prakash Maria John
Published: July 2023

This review presents the integration of security analysis with Quality of Service (QoS) support in the Routing Protocol for Low power and Lossy networks (RPL). This study highlights the importance of the security and QoS. A methodology for security analysis and evaluation of QoS support was proposed. An algorithm for integrating security analysis and QoS support in RPL is presented, addressing the vulnerability assessment and dynamic adaptation of route selection. This review highlights the significance of research on enhancing security and QoS support in RPL and its potential to contribute to the field of low-power and lossy networks.
Relationship Between Transformational Leadership and Organizational Learning Support Employee Creativity: Evidence from Vietnamese SMEs
Authors: Nguyen Thi-Trang-Nhung , Vu Manh-Cuong
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The current study aims to investigate the mediating role of organizational learning (OL) on the relationship between transformational leadership (TFL) and employee creativity (EC) in Vietnamese SMEs.
 
Theoretical framework:  The world underwent enormous and ongoing changes in SMEs after the Covid-19 pandemic. Leaders and employees must be more effective and adaptive to enhance systems and processes and meet client requests. Recently, SMEs in Vietnam have struggled to improve CEOs and staff with the professional credentials necessary to compete in the market and integrate.
 
Design/methodology/approach:  The framework and hypotheses were examined using SEM on SPSS and AMOS software to analyse the data after receiving 397 valid responses from SMEs in Vietnam.
 
Findings: Findings confirmed that TFL positively affects EC and OL. The role of individual motivation on individual consideration outweighs those of the other characteristics of TFL. OL played a partly mediator role in the relationship between TFL and EC.
 
Research, Practical & Social implications: This study provides an inventory of knowledge about the reality of OL and its mediating role on the relationship between TLF and EC, which contributes to enriching the library in overall and Vietnamese in specific in this subject.
 
Originality/value: This paper is one of the first papers in the Vietnamese SMEs context to address the mediating effect of OL between TLF and EC.
Heritage Tourism and Cultural Identity in China: Challenges and Opportunities for Development
Authors: Ma Sun Nuo Zhu , Mohame Badaruddin Bin
Published: July 2023

Purpose:  Being culturally rich and historically significant, China is seeing a growth in heritage and cultural tourism. From being seen as a country with a singular national identity, local communities are increasingly marketing their local heritage and culture for heritage tourism.
 
Theoretical framework:  These activities include the generation of money and the facilitation of the development of infrastructure. The advantages are mutually beneficial; for example, travelers report feeling psychologically better after participating in heritage tourism activities because they are motivated by feelings of nostalgia and a sense of cultural connection.
 
Design/methodology/approach: In this regard, authenticity becomes a state driven effort, where values in communities are expected to change as needed. For example, in Lijiang the local Dongba religious rituals which had been included into the UNESCO Memory of the World Register had been reinvented to be more suited for tourist consumption.
 
Findings:  These activities include the generation of money and the facilitation of the development of infrastructure. The advantages are mutually beneficial; for example, travelers report feeling psychologically better after participating in heritage tourism activities because they are motivated by feelings of nostalgia and a sense of cultural connection. Despite this, the advantages come with certain negatives, which manifest themselves as physical and cultural harms that are incurred as a result of the situation.
 
Research, Practical & Social implications: To begin, it paves the way for specific historic places to become a ritualized channel via which collective social memory may be conveyed and gathered together. To elaborate, heritage tourism enables a person to validate their membership in a nation based on the imagined reality that has been established through the course of their history.
 
Originality/value: Mentioned three perspectives in authenticity in China, namely spatial separation, value shifting and emotional banishment. In this regard, authenticity becomes a state driven effort, where values in communities are expected to change as needed.
The Impact of Monetary Policy on Economic Stability in Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Oil-Producing Countries: the Case Of Iraq
Authors: Murad Estabraq Ismael Hama , Mahfoudh Slim
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The rapid spread of the COVID-19 Pandemic had significant effects on the global and local economy alike, represented in the decline in economic growth rates and the decline in international oil prices as a result of the decrease in global consumption of it, and then its greatest impact on the local economy was the rule of economic instability.
 
Theoretical framework: This is as a result of the decline in oil revenues and the increase in the size of the financial deficit in the general budget, which led to the financing of that deficit by decreasing the exchange value of the dinar, and then the rise in inflation rates in the country.
 
Design/Methodology/Approach: the decline in dollar revenues in light of this crisis and the prevailing impact of the struggle stock exchange on the exchange rate contributed to the widening of the gap between the two prices in the economy.
 
Findings: the fluctuation of the parallel exchange rate and its reaching 1240 dinars per dollar.
 
Research, practical & social implications: work should be done to establish sovereign funds in which to be saved in times of high oil prices, to be resorted to in times of crisis.
 
Originality/ Value: this experience is applicable in many oil countries as the Public Revenue Control Fund In Algeria and the Kuwaiti Fund for Future Generations.
A Conceptual Framework for Studying Factors that Influence Digital Technology Adoption Among Manufacturing Sector: Leadership Effectiveness as a Mediating Variable
Authors: Arumugam AJayandaran , Bhaumik Amiya , Khazaei Hamed
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The objective of this study was to explore the current literature on the adoption of digital technology and emphasized the importance of leadership effectiveness in the E&E Manufacturing sector context.
 
Theoretical framework:  To examine how organizations will respond to introducing new technologies in manufacturing firms, this study established two mainstream management theories, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Diffusion of Innovation (DOI), to develop a conceptual framework.
 
Design/methodology/approach: this study extensively reviewed the literature  to identify the important factors influencing digital technologies adoption in the E&E manufacturing sector.
 
Findings:    This study sought to develop a conceptual framework within the context of E&E manufacturing companies and to identify the factors that influence the adoption of digital technology. This research indicates that leadership style and psychological traits appear to play a significant role in an organization's openness to new technologies.
 
Research, Practical & Social implications:  The study's findings may contribute to the manufacturing management practices in performing a more significant strategic role toward Industry Revolution 4.0 requirements. 
 
Originality/value:  Considering the digital transformation, the leadership field needs more sensitive research in institutional and cultural contexts, focusing on how leadership effectiveness may mediate digital technologies adoption among organizations.
Classroom Learning Management Using Component Display Theory in Islamic Education Courses
Authors: Wantu Hasyim Mahmud , Djafri Novianty , Lamatenggo Nina , Umar Masri Kudrat
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To analyze the effect of using CDT in classroom learning management in Islamic Education courses.
 
Theoretical framework:  The CDT is a learning theory that integrates aspects of humanism, behaviorism, and cognitive theory. The CDT produced a taxonomy that has the potential to be beneficial in the process of determining learning objectives since it makes use of two dimensions. The content and capability dimensions are the names given to these two categories of consideration.
 
Design/methodology/approach: The research was carried out for two semesters (one academic year), namely the 2021/2022 academic year, for research activities ranging from problem determination, title, proposal, data collection, data analysis, validation, and research reports. The method used in this research is developed as proposed by Borg and Gall.
 
Findings: This research shows that using CDT in classroom learning management in Islamic Education courses positively impacts students' understanding and skills. The practical recommendations from this research can provide helpful guidance for lecturers and instructors in improving classroom learning management and student learning experiences. Thus, this research has important implications for improving the effectiveness of learning and development of Islamic education.
 
Research, Practical & Social implications:  This study recommended being able to apply the CDTs learning model to courses with Islamic characteristics whose learning materials are sourced from the Quran and Hadith. It can also be tested in courses that instill values, such as the Pancasila Education course or the Civic Education course.
 
Originality/value: This research provides a better understanding of the effectiveness of using CDT in classroom learning management in Islamic Education courses. The results of this study provide empirical evidence on the positive influence of this approach on students' understanding and skills. Thus, the benefits of this research are to improve the effectiveness of learning and optimize the teaching-learning process in Islamic Education courses.
Low-Level Bank Managers: Factors that Affect Ethical Decision-Making (The Indonesian Case)
Authors: Rimbano Dheo , Andrinaldo Arisky , Sardiyo  , Sari Tri Agriana , Gunadi
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To find out the factors that influence ethical decision-making in low-level bank managers
 
Theoretical framework: Research findings emphasized that the theory of McCosh in 1999 is certainly still relevant to use if the perception of the ethical meaning is not more to the application of ethics in the standard operating procedure is true but more to the fulfillment of a lending activity that really.
 
Design/methodology/approach: The study also took a step with a positivistic epistemological approach in the process of answering research questions by following the deductive logic of parts and phenomena and their relationships; The research strategy used in the completion of this study was to use confirmation data analysis (CFA) of this research conducted with a single cross-sectional.
 
Findings: The results of the research with the use of analysis of confirmatory factor (CFA) indicate that when a lending activity takes place, ethical ideology, financial attitudes, and financial ethics give a guarantee that the manager will be able to make an ethical decision.
 
Research, Practical & Social implications: We suggest a future research agenda and highlight the contribution a low-level bank manager makes in making ethical decisions
 
Originality/value: The results show that ethical ideology, financial attitudes, and financial ethics have a significant influence on ethical decisions in lending activities by low-level bank managers, and financial ethics have a significant role in mediating the effect of ethical ideology and financial attitudes on ethical decisions, in lending activities by lower-level bank managers.