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Aims. To identify the difference between adult patients with septal defects and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) and patients without a history of arrhythmia using the left atrial (LA) volume and function parameters, to reveal the parameters associated with AF development. Methods and results. In this prospective study, 81 patients with septal defects and left-to-right shunts were enrolled between 2021 and 2023 and divided into two groups: with paroxysmal AF and without AF. Left atrial function was analyzed based on the indexed left atrial volumes (LAVI and preA-LAVI), ejection fraction (LAEF), expansion index (LAEI), reservoir (LAS-r), conduit (LAS-cd) and contractile (LAS-ct) strain, and stiffness index (LASI) using a Philips CVx3D ultrasound system (Philips, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) and corresponding software. In total, 26 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (mean age: 59.6 ± 11.7 years, female: 80.8%) and 55 patients with septal defects without any history of arrhythmias (mean age: 44.8 ± 11.6 years, female: 81.8%) were included. All patients were in the NYHA class I or II at baseline. Our findings demonstrated a significant difference between all LA function parameters in the two groups. Upon univariable analysis, the LAVI, preA-LAVI, LASI, LAEF, LAEI, LAS-r, LAS-c, LAS-ct, age, cardiac index, E/A, and RV pressure were found to be associated with AF. The multivariate analysis identified LAVI (OR 1.236, 95% CI 1.022–1.494, p = 0.03), LAS-r (OR 0.723, 95% CI 0.556–0.940, p = 0.02), and LAS-ct (OR 1.518, 95% CI 1.225–1.880, p < 0.001) as independent predictors of AF development. The proposed model demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity with an adjusted classification threshold of 0.38 (AUC: 0.97, 95% CI 0.93–1.00, sensitivity 92% and specificity 92%, p < 0.001). Conclusions. The assessment of LA function using speckle-tracking echocardiography demonstrated significantly different values in the AF group among patients with congenital septal defects. This technique can therefore be implemented in routine clinical management. The key message. Atrial fibrillation development in adult patients with congenital septal defects and a left-to-right shunt is associated with the changes in left atrial function under conditions of an increased preload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was established that the surface functionality of nanoglobular carbon (NGC) can be effectively altered by treatment at temperatures of 573 – 1173 K in an inert atmosphere, without affecting the structure and morphology of the material as a whole. The destruction and loss of surface oxygen groups occurs as a result of this treatment, which is accompanied by a decrease in the concentration of paramagnetic centers. At a temperature of 1173 K, a restructuring and "smoothing" of the carbon surface apparently takes place, which is expressed by annealing of defects (sources of EPR signal). It was found that changes in the surface functionality of NGC affect the reducibility of supported palladium precursor and the formation of palladium nanoparticles, without causing changes in palladium dispersion state. The study of the obtained Pd/NGC catalysts in the practically important hydrogenation of 4-nitrobenzoic acid ethyl ester and furfural showed that thermal pre-treatment of the support affects the catalytic performance in these reactions. It is important that varying temperature of such pre-treatment over a fairly wide range, which has a significant impact on the functionality of the support surface, leads to only relatively small changes in the activity and selectivity of the resulting catalysts. In this regard, thermal pre-treatment of carbon support should be considered as an approach to fine tune the performance of carbon-supported palladium catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrenophora tritici-repentis is the causative agent of tan spot in wheat. Among the necrotrophic effectors produced by the fungus, the most studied is the necrosis-inducing protein toxin Ptr ToxA, encoded by the ToxA gene. Previously, we identified ten strains of P. tritici-repentis from Kazakhstan and Russia, the amplified fragment of which with ToxA-specific primers turned out to be larger than expected. Sequencing of these fragments of three P. tritici-repentis strains revealed the presence of a 170 bp insertion element PtrHp2 located in exon 2 of the ToxA gene. The PtrHp2 sequence includes three pairs of mutually complementary regions of 16, 8, and 6 bp in length, forming a hairpin-type secondary structure. The inability of P. tritici-repentis strains possessing PtrHp2 in the ToxA gene to cause necrosis on the leaves of cv. Glenlea, which differentiates the presence of Ptr ToxA in the pathogen, has been established. This fact indicates a violation of the expression of the mutant ToxA gene. However, the mutant ToxA gene with PtrHp2 is retained in 45% of the fungal mitotic progeny. The fragments homologous to the PtrHp2 are found in noncoding parts of the ToxB gene and its homologs in P. tritici-repentis strains, as well as in the genomes of other fungi. This observation indicates the transposon nature of PtrHp2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioclaustrations are among the best ways that parasitic associations are preserved. A new bioclaustration, Haplorygma productidophilia csp. nov., is here described from the ventral interior of the Carboniferous productid brachiopod Eomarginifera lobata. The location and morphology of the structures in the ventral valve differ from the structure in the dorsal valve, suggesting that two different organisms infested the shells of Eomarginifera lobata. It is possible that whether it was ventral or dorsal valve was an important selection criterion for the infesting organisms, which were likely parasites. The proportion of infested productids was low in the population (5.8%). This low infestation rate could indicate that productids had effective methods for resisting parasites, or that the parasites were ineffective in spreading through the brachiopod population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of measuring the charge-discharge characteristics of solid-state thin-film lithium-ion batteries with a nanocomposite anode based on a-Si(Al) solid solution are presented. The charging characteristics of batteries have a feature in the form of a step on the smooth branch of the charge curve. It is shown that the appearance of the step is associated with the compensation of a-Si(Al) and the change from hole to electron conductivity due to lithiation of the electrode during charging. As a result of lithiation, the electron over-barrier current becomes the main component of the charging current. To maintain a galvanostatic charge mode, the potentiostat increases the voltage by the height of the potential barrier, which leads to the appearance of a step on the charging curve. The impedance of a solid-state thin-film lithium-ion battery of the LiCoO2–LiPON–Si@O@Al electrochemical system was measured in the temperature range from –20 to 50°C. A structural model of the accumulator is proposed and the parameters of the structural elements of the model are calculated which provide the best fit for experimental Nyquist diagrams. The obtained values of the electrodes' resistivity are orders of magnitude higher than the results of direct measurements and data from literary sources. According to the IV-characteristics obtained by cyclic voltammetry the high resistance of the electrodes is due to the metal-semiconductor contact and the varistor effect of the electrode material. The results obtained make significant adjustments to the interpretation of the impedance spectra and structural models of solid-state lithium-ion batteries based on semiconductor materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic in Ukraine, from March 2020 to June 2022, witnessed distinct waves, each characterized by an increase in cases and fatalities. Next-generation sequencing has been used to understand the impact of viral variants on the pandemic situation in Ukraine. We analyzed SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing data to identify viral variants circulating during each wave. By integrating epidemiological information, we established associations between viral variants and disease spread. The adoption of next-generation sequencing for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance in Ukraine, despite limited resources, yielded adequate and trustworthy results, reflecting the pandemic situation. After the Russian military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a large number of refugees crossed the border with neighboring countries. Mutation analysis on sequencing data from Ukraine and Poland was used to estimate the exchange of SARS-CoV-2 variants between the countries during this period. Omicron subvariants detected in both countries were similar. The analysis of SARS-CoV-2 sequences from Poland and Ukraine revealed shared nucleotide mutations that can be used to identify the directions of spreading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationships between the notion of generalized integral and the notions of reflecting function and Poincaré map (period map) for periodic differential systems are traced. The notion of generalized first integral is used to study questions of the existence and stability of periodic solutions of periodic differential systems and analyze the center–focus problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat transfer in layered metal-dielectric structures is considered theoretically based on an analytical solution of the Boltzmann transfer equation for the phonon distribution function. Taking into account the size effect, the problem of effective cross-plane thermal conductivity of structures containing two metal layers is analyzed in detail. If the thickness of the metal layers is less than the phonon mean free path, interlayer heat transfer is carried out predominantly by phonons, and the effective cross-plane thermal conductivity is determined by the reflection of phonons from the metal/dielectric interfaces. In the opposite case of thick metal layers, the effective cross-plane thermal conductivity is determined both by the thermal conductivity of the metal layers and by the thermal resistance of the dielectric layers. The results obtained are generalized to multilayer structures and superlattices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying PDEs on the sets of complicated structure and, in particular, stratified sets has been gaining popularity since recently. This article establishes some local Aleksandrov–Bakelman–Krylov type maximum estimates for solutions to linear elliptic and parabolic second-order equations on a book-type stratified set. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper, we describe several coleoid jaws discovered in the lower Toarcian black shales, cropping out along the Vilyui River (Yakutia, Russia). This is the first record of a Lower Jurassic coleoid jaw outside Europe and the first report of such a finding from the Mesozoic of Siberia. The described coleoid jaws demonstrate the same mode of preservation and morphology as the coeval jaws previously reported from Europe. Their preservation in Siberia became possible due to the widespread occurrence of black shale facies associated with the early Toarcian oceanic anoxic event (TOAE). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogenation of furfural in the presence of heterogeneous catalysts has recently attracted increased interest as a method for the synthesis of oxygen-containing compounds of various classes based on renewable raw materials. The composition of the catalyst and the conditions of its preparation essentially determine which of the routes of reductive conversions during the hydrogenation of furfural will be predominant. The present review summarizes and examines methods for controlling the physicochemical and functional properties of Pd-, Ni-, Co-, and Cu-containing catalytic compositions, as the most common and practically significant in the hydrogenation of furfural. The influence of the nature of the support, the composition of the active metal precursor, and the conditions for the formation of metal nanoparticles on the activity and selectivity of supported catalysts in the reductive conversions of furfural under aqueous-phase hydrogenation conditions has been demonstrated by numerous examples. Promising directions of research on the development of methods for the synthesis of efficient catalysts with controlled functional properties in the hydrogenation of furfural are considered. The bibliography includes 127 references. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new version of a sensor for temperature measurements in the case of strong laser intensity fluctuation was developed. It was based on tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) with wavelength modulation, logarithmic conversion of the absorption signal, and detection of the first harmonic of the modulation frequency. The efficiency of the technique was demonstrated under experimental conditions with excess multiplicative noise. Temperature was evaluated from the ratio of integrated absorbance of two lines of the water molecule with different lower energy levels. Two algorithms of data processing were tested, simultaneous fitting of two spectral ranges with selected absorption lines and independent fitting of two absorption lines profiles. The correctness of the gas temperature evaluation was verified by simultaneous measurements with a commercial thermocouple. An error in temperature evaluation of less than 40 at 1000 K was achieved even when processing a single scan of the diode lasers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonoids – cephalopod molluscs with external shells that existed from the Early Devonian up to the end of the Cretaceous – had well-developed jaws. During ammonoid evolution, several different types of their jaw apparatus arose, the study of which is of undoubted interest since it allows researchers to draw conclusions about the feeding strategies of ammonoids and their position in trophic chains. However, there is a lack of findings relating to the evolution of ammonoid jaws during the Permian. Here we describe a collection of almost thirty of cephalopod jaws from the Divjinskian Formation (Artinskian Stage, Cisuralian, Lower Permian), from the Sverdlovsk region of Russia. Most likely, these jaws belong to goniatitid ammonoid Uraloceras, the most abundant cephalopod mollusc in the Divjinskian (Divya) Formation. Uraloceras lower jaws are typical ammonoid anaptychi which have a rounded, wide and convex shape with smooth or slightly ribbed surface. They have a large inner lamella with a trapezoidal platform in the central part. One of the jaws bears a possible bite trace of a predator or scavenger. The upper jaws, described here for the first time, are slightly smaller than the lower jaws, their shape is narrow and pointed. Originally, both jaws were completely organic without calcareous elements. The absence of sculpture, consisting of frequent ribs and growth lines, characteristic of the more ancient Carboniferous goniatitid jaws, makes the jaws of the Uraloceras closer to the structure of the jaw apparatus of Triassic ammonoids. Judging by the pointed shape of the tips of both jaws, Uraloceras were active predators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalysts based on CuAl-, CoAl-, and CuCoAl-layered hydroxides with M2+/Al = 2 and Cu/Co = 1 molar ratio were obtained. The effect of amount of cobalt on the structural properties, morphology, surface cations distribution, oxide phase formation, thermal stability of the samples and reduction of metals from them was studied. The effect of reaction conditions (temperature, time, pressure, solvent) and conditions of preliminary treatment of catalysts on their catalytic properties in furfural hydrogenation was established. High selectivity to furfuryl alcohol was observed for all the samples irrespective of pretreatment and reaction conditions. The synergetic effect in furfural hydrogenation between Co and Cu in the CuCoAlOx catalysts was revealed when ethanol is used as a solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper discusses perspectives of Activity Theory (AT) in the context of contemporary globalizing world, describing which we refer to the notion "De-structuralized modernity" (Sorokin and Froumin 2020). Radical changes in everyday life challenge social sciences and humanities. Approaches are in demand, which have the potential to comprehend the changing human étant and éntre. We argue that Activity Theory has the potential to face these challenges. Leontiev's AT grounds on the idea of qualitatively new mental features arising to deal with novel environmental challenges, which is much in line with J.M. Baldwin reasoning on evolution. AT also offers a method to prognosis the upcoming neoplasms. In the same time, applying classics of AT to the current reality, "De-structuralized modernity", entails the need for new theoretical elaborations of the latter, stemming from the radical transformation of the relations between individual and socio-cultural environments. A unique societal context emerges on the global level, which, on the one hand, requires individual to adapt constantly to changing socio-cultural reality, and, on the other hand, dramatically expands his/her potential for proactive actorhood transforming surrounding structures. We argue that the major and novel challenge for the individual is that maintaining the integrity and coherence of the a) Self-identity and b) system of links with the socio-cultural environment - in their dynamics and unity, has become a qualitatively different issue, much more complicated and problematic than ever before. The notion of "culture" has particular relevance and importance in this context because it allows grasping simultaneously two dimensions in their dynamic dialectical interrelations. First, the "internal" ("subjective", "in the minds") and "external" ("objective", material and institutional environment) realities. Second, individual ("micro") and societal ("macro") scales of human activities. Discussing the ways to understand these dynamics, we dispute the popular "constitutive view" on personality and refer to the concept of the "ontological shift" (Mironenko and Sorokin 2018). We also highlight how technological advancements change and "expand" human nature making it capable to deal with the outlined new tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical oxidation of (Е)-3-aryl-2-cyanoprop-2-enethioamides in a undivided cell in the presence of KBr in an aqueous or aqueous-organic medium has led to the formation of (2Е,2′E)-2,2′-(1,2,4-thiadiazole-3,5-diyl)bis[3-arylacrylonitriles] in 37–76% yield. A plausible reaction mechanism has been discussed. In laboratory experiments, (2E,2′E)-2,2′-(1,2,4-thiadiazol-3,5-diyl)bis[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)acrylonitrile] has revealed pronounced antidote effect against herbicide 2,4-D on sunflower seedlings and no pronounced growth-regulating properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formulas for calculating the Poincaré period map for a two-dimensional linear periodic system of differential equations and for the Riccati differential equation are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research object was the liquid protein hydrolysate "AGROMOREE" from the rainbow trout, which was provided by the company "Russian Aquaculture LLC". The purpose of this study was the evaluation of the effect of the hydrolysate "AGROMOREE" as a biostimulant on the growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Biometric indicators of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth were determined in the laboratory and in field tests. In the laboratory, the liquid concentrated hydrolysate was dried to facilitate its use. "AGROMOREE" promoted an increase in germination of 2–4% in all samples compared to the control samples, as well as an increase in the length and number of wheat roots. The biostimulant "AGROMOREE" was introduced in the soil in liquid form at about 3000 L/ha and 4000 L/ha in the field tests. This study showed that "ARGOMOREE" contributed to an increase in the length and quantity of wheat ears, the quantity of grains in the ear and the seed weight. At the same time, the quantity of productive stems increased, so that the biostimulant "AGROMOREE" increased the productivity by 3.9–6.3% with respect to the control sample. In general, using the biostimulant "AGROMOREE" on spring wheat seeds from 2019 in the growing season of 2021 provided an increase in yield from 0.21 t/ha to 0.28 t/ha. The maximum value of raw gluten content in the seed was 5.2%, higher than the content in the control. The content of the mass fraction of protein in the seed was in the range of 12.33–12.56%, i.e., 2% higher than that of the control sample. Thus, according to qualitative and quantitative indicators and the total productivity indicators, the biostimulant «AGROMOREE» can be used to increase wheat productivity and reduce the use of nitrogen fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents results of modeling the chemical interactions of Quaternary meteoric waters with siltstones of the upper part of the Vendian Padun Formation of the Mezen Syneclise, Arkhangelsk region, Russia. Equilibrium and equilibrium-kinetic approaches were applied. It is shown that under conditions of intensive water exchange and low temperature, due to low rates of interaction of minerals with water, the redox buffer of rock-forming minerals at this stage of the process makes a subordinate contribution to the dissolution of uranium. Therefore, for a sufficiently long time, the main agent of mobilization of uranium in rocks is oxygen dissolved in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the structural and textural properties of NiAl-layered double hydroxides (LDHs) (with 2–4 molar ratios of metals) and state of nickel that occur in different steps of the synthesis of nickel catalysts were studied using XRD, thermal analysis, TPR, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, XANES, EXAFS, and electron microscopy methods. Relations between nickel content, catalyst reduction conditions, state of nickel, and its catalytic properties were revealed. It was shown that the use of NiAl LDH as the catalyst precursor even at a high content of active metal allows for the obtaining of the dispersed particles of supported nickel that are active in the aqueous-phase hydrogenation of furfural. The catalyst activity and conversion of furfural were found to increase with elevation of the catalyst reduction temperature and the corresponding growth of the fraction of reduced nickel. However, a lower reduction temperature (500 °C) makes it possible to form smaller nickel particles with the size of 4–6 nm, and a high Ni content (Ni:Al = 4) can be used to obtain the active Ni@NiAlOx catalyst. Under mild reaction conditions (90 °C, 2.0 MPa), the furfural conversion reached 93%, and furfuryl alcohol was formed with the selectivity of 70%. Under more severe reaction conditions (150 °C, 3.0 MPa), complete conversion of furfural was achieved, and cyclopentanol and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol were the main hydrogenation products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a linear periodic system of differential equations, we indicate a method permitting one to find a matrix similar to the matrix of the Poincaré map in closed form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rate and directions of transformations during the liquid-phase hydrogenation of furfural with molecular hydrogen in the presence of the 5%Pd/C catalyst (at 423 K, 3 MPa) depend substantially on the chemical nature of the solvent. The main products of the catalytic transformations in alcohols are alkyl furyl ethers. Hydrogenation in solvent environment of aromatic hydrocarbons and 1,4-dioxane (nonpolar solvents), as well as in ethyl acetate and DMF (polar aprotic solvents) leads to the predominant formation of furfuryl alcohol, and its highest selectivity (up to 92%) is achieved with the use of DMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first well‐preserved soft‐body imprint of a fossil squid was discovered from the Lower Oligocene of the Krasnodar region, Russia. The squid is perfectly preserved, with many details of its body available for study, such as imprints of eyes and head, a pair of statoliths, jaws, and stomach contents. Statoliths of this squid are the first finds of in situ statoliths in fossil non‐belemnoid coleoids, and their shape is characteristic of the genus Loligo (family Loliginidae). Although some Mesozoic coleoids were previously classified as teuthids, these finds remain controversial and the squid described herein is the first unquestionable representative of fossil Teuthida known to date. It should be noted that the squid is preserved not due to phosphatization, which is typical for fossil coleoids, but by pyritization and carbonization. Numerous fish remains in the stomach contents of the squid indicate its piscivorous diet. A small cutlassfish Anenchelum angustum, which was buried together with the squid and whose bones are located near the squid's jaws, sheds light on the circumstances of the death of this animal. Most likely, the squid suffocated in the anoxic bottom waters, where it drowned along with its last prey (distraction sinking). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The GEOCHEQ_Isotope software package, elaborated previously for modeling chemical and carbon isotope equilibria in hydrothermal and hydrogeochemical systems by minimizing the Gibbs energy, is extended to the simultaneous calculation of carbon and oxygen isotopic effects. Similar to what was done for carbon, the β-factor formalism was used to develop algorithms and a database for calculating the isotopic effects of oxygen. According to the developed algorithm, the Gibbs energy of formation of a rare isotopologue, G*(P, T), is calculated through the Gibbs energy of formation of the main isotopologue, the value of the β18O factor of this substance, and the mass ratio of the rare (18O) and main (16O) isotopes. The isotope mixture is assumed to be ideal. The temperature dependence of the β-factor is unified as a polynomial in reciprocal absolute temperature. Necessary information on oxygen isotope equilibria involving important geochemical compounds was critically analyzed, and the available data were reconciled and modified. The temperature dependences of the β18O-factors were correspondingly optimized. The thermodynamic database was updated by adding information on the temperature dependence of β18O-factors specified by polynomial coefficients for each substance. The usage of the GEOCHEQ_Isotope software package and the corresponding database is demonstrated by modeling the dependence of oxygen and carbon isotope fractionation factors on the acidity of the solution (pH) in a carbonate hydrothermal system. The simulation results are in a good agreement with experimental data available from the literature. The enrichment of dissolved carbonates in the 18O heavy oxygen isotope relative to water decreases with increasing pH of the system. At the same time, a pH increase results in a decrease in the negative carbon isotope shift between calcite and dissolved carbonates. At high pH values (~11), the isotope shift inversion and the enrichment of the dissolved carbonate in the heavy carbon isotope relative to calcite are predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental samples of solid-state thin-film lithium-ion batteries (STLIBs) of the LiCoO2/LiPON/Si@O@Al electrochemical system are manufactured using traditional mask technology by radio frequency magnetron sputtering of both the electrodes and electrolyte. The obtained samples have a specific capacity corresponding to the modern published data on industrial STLIB samples. The developed STLIB samples are capable of long (about 1000 cycles) cycling with an acceptable loss of capacity, provided that the charging voltage is limited to 3.7 V. Exceeding the charging voltage leads to an increase in the charging capacity, but to a noticeable acceleration of degradation during cycling. At cycling currents over 20 μA/cm2, the inverse proportionality between the current and the discharge capacity is observed, which is determined by the delayed solid-phase diffusion of lithium. With a decrease in the cycling current, the discharge capacity approaches the theoretical capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reusability of metal catalysts is a key issue for the potential application of new catalysts in research and industrial practice. The most common procedure for testing catalyst reusability in liquid‐phase heterogeneous reactions is based on separating a catalyst from a reaction mixture followed by the next run. An alternative procedure called "fresh start" consists of the addition of a new portion of reagents to the reaction mixture without any isolation operation. In this work, we compare both procedures in a model Pd/C‐catalyzed hydrogenation with different heteroatoms, e. g., O‐, S‐, and N‐vinyl derivatives. It was shown that regardless of whether the catalyst is stable or potentially poisoned during the reaction, both procedures lead to comparable results. It appears that a much easier implementation of a fresh start procedure may be an option of choice. The possibilities of using both procedures to rationalize the experimental protocol for assessing Pd/C catalyst reusability in liquid‐phase hydrogenations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of metallurgical inheritance on the structure and mechanical properties of semiproducts from alloy 01570 of the Al – Mg – Sc system is studied by x-ray phase analysis, electron microscopy, x-ray energy dispersive analysis, tensile tests and electron fractography. The structure of the ingot and the conditions of the deformation and of the heat treatment are shown to affect the structure and properties of the semiproducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrenophora tritici-repentis is a phytopathogenic fungus, which forms specific phytotoxins encoded by the ToxA and ToxB genes. The aim of the study was to identify the genetic nuclear polymorphism on the ToxA and ToxB genes as evidence of the heterokaryotic state of P. tritici-repentis strains. The novelty of the study was evaluation of the proportion of nuclei with the ToxA or ToxB gene relative to the total pool of nuclei with the reference gene Act1 by quantitative PCR for the detection of heterokaryons. Twenty-one P. tritici-repentis strains from three geographical populations, as well as mitotic (conidial) and meiotic generations of individual strains (103 subclones), were analyzed in the study. The proportion of nuclei with the ToxA gene in 70% of P. tritici-repentis ToxA+ strains from the Kazakhstan population was in the range of 0.24–0.65, indicating their heterokaryotic state. In the Greek population, 20% of P. tritici-repentis ToxB+ strains characterized by the proportion of nuclei with the ToxB gene much more than 1 were detected, while at least 40% of the strains were also heterokaryotic. Probably the proportion of nuclei with effector genes is a genetically inherited trait. The low polymorphism of the proportion of nuclei with effector genes among the mitotic generation was revealed. At the same time, a broader variability of the proportion of nuclei with ToxA among the meiotic generation was found. The functional role of nuclear polymorphism for the adaptation of P. tritici-repentis isolates in the population requires further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Pd/NHC catalyst dynamics was explored in alkyne semihydrogenation. • "Cocktail"-type catalysis was identified, synergizing molecular complexes and nanoparticles. • Pd nanoparticle surfaces modified by organic ligands influence catalytic activity. • Hydrogenation with hybrid catalyst occurs under mild conditions with molecular hydrogen. • Insights focus on the rational design and optimization of efficient Pd/NHC catalysts. This study explored the dynamic transformations of the Pd/NHC catalytic system during the semihydrogenation of alkynes using molecular hydrogen under mild reaction conditions. Focusing on the appearance of a "cocktail"-type system, we harnessed advanced characterization methods, such as NMR, ESI-HRMS, and SEM/TEM. In the hydrogenation process of 1,2–diphenylacetylene, the Pd/NHC complex evolves to produce novel palladium-based compounds and a heterogeneous phase, which partially precipitates into catalytically active nanoparticles. A pivotal finding revealed that the modification of the Pd nanoparticle surface by organic ligands under reaction conditions significantly influenced the catalytic activity of the Pd particles. The split test results suggest an enhanced selectivity toward (Z)-stilbene when the precipitate is maintained in the reaction mixture, highlighting that the palladium nanoparticles act as active catalysts (or reservoirs of active species) synergistically with dissolved molecular complexes. This research reports important findings for understanding the dynamics of the Pd/NHC system, contributing to the development of more efficient catalytic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The works of Prof. B. A. Perepelitsa from Kharkov Polytechnic Institute and his disciples to develop an applied methodology of multiparameter mappings in relation to the profiling and functioning of complex curvilinear objects and transmission mechanisms in mechanical engineering, mainly with examples of gears, are presented. The completed review is gratefully devoted to the 10th anniversary of Fiability & Durability Journal, which has repeatedly provided its platform to the authors to highlight this development of the wide Romanian, European and world scientific community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We carried out equilibrium-kinetic modeling the interaction of the integrated technological sample from the Pavlovskoe ore deposit with atmospheric precipitates to estimate the potential environmental contamination during mining. Accumulation of major (Zn, Pb) and trace (Cu, Co, Cd, As, Hg, Se, Hg, Sb) ore elements in aqueous solution during summer period has been calculated. It has been shown that the aqueous solution after the interaction acquires sulfate–calcium composition and accumulates Zn, Sb, and Hg in concentrations exceeding the maximum permissible concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The GEOCHEQ_M and GEOCHEQ_Isotope databases and codes were used to simulate the evolution of chemical interactions with time in the closed systems aqueous solution 0.495 М NaCl + 0.0194 M NaHCO3 + olivine (Fo91) at temperatures of 200 and 320°C and a pressure of 350 bar. The solution to rock mass ratios, selected temperature and pressure, the chemical composition and size of the olivine grains, the chemical composition of the aqueous solution, and the duration of interactions correspond to those in experiments described in (McCollom et al., 2016; McCollom, 2016). The carbon isotope composition of NaHCO3 was the only one to change. Instead of NaH13CO3 used in the experiment, our simulations were carried out assuming the carbon isotope composition of belemnite from the Peedee Formation, South Carolina, United States. The results of these simulations were compared with the experimental results. As in the experiments, the newly formed mineral assemblage consists of Mg-rich serpentine, brucite, and magnetite, with a minor magnesite amount at 200°С. The calculated rate of olivine serpentinization is close to the experimental one. The calculations yield higher dissolved methane contents than in the experiments. This may be explained by ignoring kinetic constraints of the reaction between dissolved CO2,aq and hydrogen generated during serpentinization. Fractionation of carbon isotopes was calculated between dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), newly formed hydrocarbons, and magnesite. The hydrocarbons are significantly enriched in the light isotope with respect to DIC and with respect to magnesite at 200°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents certain aspects of applying equilibrium-kinetic modeling to preliminarily assess the formation of the chemical composition of sewage subdump waters during upcoming mining at the Udokan deposit. The mineral dissolution rates, including oxidative dissolution of sulfides, and sorption of strontium, cobalt, zinc, and nickel on calcite are taken into account. It is shown that the chemical composition of water during interaction with dump rocks changes very slowly. However, such heavy metals as nickel, zinc, cobalt, and molybdenum should accumulate in the aqueous solution of the settling pond within 50 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of thermodynamic modeling of a transformation of a kerogen-bearing sedimentary rock within the temperature range of 50–400°С at a gradually increasing pressure from 300 to 2200 bar. A gradual increase in temperature and pressure, starting from 50°С, leads to the formation of the lighter and more oxidized type of kerogen. The methane–carbon dioxide gas phase is present in the entire range of specified temperatures and pressures. The coexistence of kerogen and oil was obtained only in one calculation for 325°С and 1750 bar. In the presence of kerogen in the system, the oil consists of 92% alkane hydrocarbons. With a further increase in temperature, the kerogen disappears and a share of aromatic hydrocarbons in oil rises to 49–77%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Controllable activity and selectivity of Pd/C hydrogenation catalysts. • Effect of the carbon support on the structure and catalytic properties of Pd NPs. • Effect of the Pd precursor on the structure and catalytic properties of Pd NPs. • Addition of a second metal and the synergistic effect in Pd-based bimetallic catalysts. Carbon-supported palladium catalysts are widely used for hydrogenation of various organic compounds in the fine chemical industry. The nanoscale geometry and electronic structure of supported Pd nanoparticles play a crucial role in providing the necessary catalytic properties. To improve catalytic activity and selectivity of Pd nanoparticles, it is possible to fine tune their intrinsic properties (e.g., size and oxidation state) by controlling the chemical transformations at different stages of catalyst preparation. Recent years have seen considerable advancement in developing new catalyst preparation techniques as well as in understanding the mechanism of active site formation. This review summarizes some of the existing approaches to regulating the catalytic properties of carbon-supported palladium by variation of the carbon support, the composition of palladium precursor and its reduction conditions, as well as the addition of a second active metal. The data presented may be useful for researchers developing efficient Pd/C catalysts for hydrogenation of polyfunctional organic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of studying the structure and phase composition of thin-film positive electrodes of a lithium-ion battery based on vanadium oxides are presented. It is shown that initially polycrystalline films contain higher V2O5 and V3O7 oxides, the proportion of which increases with the time of oxygen annealing. As a result of charge–discharge cycling, the higher vanadium oxides are amorphized, while the content of the VO2 and V2O3 phases decreases slightly, and the proportion of VO oxide remains unchanged. These data are in good agreement with the change in the capacity of the films during their cycling, which suggests that the main reason for the decrease in the capacity of the films is the amorphization of the higher vanadium oxides with the highest specific capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conellae, enigmatic cone-shaped structures which can be found on the surface of internal moulds of cephalopod shells (predominantly of ammonoids), are regarded herein as the product of remote (biologically induced) biomineralization formed in closed-off cavities during lifetime and might be primarily composed of vaterite, aragonite, or calcite. To date conellae have been interpreted in many different ways: (i) as organisms (gastropods, cirriped crustaceans, or disciniscid brachiopods), (ii) pre-diagenetic syn vivo features, i.e., biologically controlled or induced, the product of remote biomineralization, (iii) and diagenetic, i.e., abiogenic origin and post-mortem. The proposed processes of conellae formation seem insufficient to explain conellae related phenomena. Further, their assumed primary aragonitic or calcitic mineralogy are reviewed and based on new material critically assessed. The stratigraphic range of conellae extends from the Middle Ordovician and probably to modern Nautilus. Predominantly, conellae can be found on internal moulds along the keel, ribs or nodes, umbilical shoulder, at the transition between phragmocone and body chamber, and can be associated with repaired scars. However, conellae are also common on the smooth body chambers of large macroconchs of Jurassic ammonites. Conellae, which are located on ammonite body chambers, are filled with the same material found in the body chamber and can contain small burrows, sand grains, or coprolites. Some of these conellae are partially covered with nacreous shell material. Limonitic conellae were also found on the limonitic internal moulds of orthocone nautiloids. Moreover, disciniscid brachiopods found on inoceramid bivalves were re-identified herein as conellae. A short guide for conellae identification has been provided herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Film structures composed of several identical modules [Co(x)/a-Si(100)/Cu(70)], where the x value varies from 2 to 10 nm, are investigated as an anode material for liquid lithium-ion batteries. It is shown that relatively thick cobalt layers are effective diffusion barriers for silicon and copper atoms, as well as for lithium ions. This leads to a decrease in the capacitance characteristics of the films under study. Thin cobalt layers (less than 3 nm) with a network structure, on the contrary, increase the capacitance characteristics of the anode films. This is caused by more uniform distribution of lithium ion drift channels that are formed at the initial stage of electrochemical cycling of electrodes over their volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mechanism of Pd/C-catalyzed hydrogenation of furfural in H 2 O was established. • Deuterium labeling is one of the techniques used to study the reaction mechanism. • Aqueous-phase furfural hydrogenation is realized through four pathways. • Mechanism includes reductive and acid-catalyzed furan ring opening reactions. Catalytic hydrogenation of furfural under hydrothermal conditions is of great importance and has recently attracted huge attention as an approach to obtaining a wide range of valuable chemicals from a renewable source. However, the data concerning the reaction mechanism of aqueous-phase furfural hydrogenation are very scarce, and it is still not clear which reactions lead to various carbonyl compounds, such as cyclopentanone, 4-oxopentanal, 5-hydroxy-2-pentanone. Herein, we present the results of an experimental study of the mechanism of reactions occurring in the furfural hydrogenation under hydrothermal conditions over the 1% Pd/CNTs catalyst. The following approaches have been used to study the reaction mechanism: hydrogenation of key intermediates formed upon the furfural conversion, and isotopic labeling experiments using D 2 O as a tracer in hydrogenation of furfural, which provides direct evidence of the occurring reactions. It was found that the furfural hydrogenation process is realized through four pathways including various reductive and acid-catalyzed furan ring opening reactions. The methods and approaches used in the present work, as well as the results obtained, can be useful in studying the mechanism of aqueous-phase hydrogenation of a wide range of oxygen-containing substrates in the presence of catalysts of different compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We comment on the article by Zagaria et al., which explicates the ""soft" nature of psychology: a minor consensus in its "core"" (Zagaria et al., p. 1), manifested by the discordant character of definitions of psychological "core-constructs". Zagaria et al. build on the assumption that psychological science should reside in the status of a paradigm, meanwhile the real state of things they consider as pre-paradigmatic, imperfect and unhealthy, from which a transition to a paradigm is necessary. We cannot agree with this provision. We argue that not internal coherence and consistency, but the ability to reflect multifaceted reality, to answer its innovative manifestations in various dimensions and solve tasks that life poses to humanity with an adequate set of different tools not reducible to a single approach, is what makes the value of science. Psychology originally developed as poly paradigmatic science, because its subject has a most complex nature, holistic, yet incorporating many aspects different in their essence and, therefore, requiring different versions of the methodology. Considering epistemology of psychological science from the philosophical perspective implying special focus on the ontological issues, we argue that poly paradigmatic structure of psychology is a virtue, not weakness. Thanks to such a structure, modular, like a Swiss knife, our science may offer the most effective solutions for a variety of problems. Multiplicity of relative approaches is best fit for life and innovation, even though we have to sacrifice rigor and concordance of definitions in introductory textbooks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. This manuscript presents the results of studies acute toxicity of a drug "Flyblok insecticidal tag" (4% s-fenvalerate and 8% piperonyl butoxide). Materials and Methods: The studies were carried out on the basis of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education "Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology-MVA named after K.I. Scriabin "and LLC" Research and Development Center Agrovetzashchita". Compounds that are used in veterinary medicine to combat blood-sucking insects. Studies were conducted on 36 white mice weighing 20-25g. and 36 guinea pigs, weighing 350-400g. Results: It was found that the average lethal dose of LD50 solution for drug impregnation in white mice with intragastric administration is 542.7 ± 283 mg/kg. The LD50 value of solution for drug impregnation, when applied to the guinea pigs on the clipped skin in the region of the vertebral column is 1874 ± 185 mg / kg. onclusion: According to the parameters of acute toxicity after intragastric administration to white mice and cutaneous application of guinea pigs to the skin, it was found that a solution for a drug impregnation according to the generally accepted hygiene classification n refers to substances that are moderately hazardous to animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, relative expression levels of the ToxA effector gene and PtrPf2 transcription factor gene in vitro were used to characterize the collection of isolates of the causative agent of tan spot of wheat, Pyrenophora tritici-repentis, from geographically distant populations. It was demonstrated that two groups of isolates, from Kazakhstan (Almaty oblast) and Russia (Krasnodar krai), differed in the levels of genetic diversity. The group of Krasnodar isolates was more heterogenous in expression levels of both genes. In Krasnodar isolates, positive correlation between the expression levels of examined genes was revealed (r = 0.96, p < 0.001). The isolate groups were statistically significantly different in the PtrPf2 expression levels (p = 0.002). According to preliminary data, high virulence of Kazakhstan isolates was associated with high expression levels of the PtrPf2 transcription factor gene in these isolates. A supposition on the existence of association between the PtrPf2 expression level in vitro and the ability of isolates to induce necrosis on the leaves of a susceptible cultivar is made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methods for regulating the physicochemical and catalytic properties of Pd/C compositions by varying their synthesis conditions were reviewed. The effect of the nature of the carbon support, the composition of the palladium precursor and its reduction conditions, and the addition of a second active metal on the formation of palladium sites, their dispersion, electronic state, and catalytic properties in practically important hydrogenation reactions was demonstrated using the results obtained by the authors. These data may be useful for the development of Pd/C catalysts exhibiting high activity and selectivity in the hydrogenation reactions of polyfunctional organic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a long time all extinct cephalopods of the subclass Nautiloidea were considered as ecological analogues of the Recent Nautilus. Recently this view has been rejected: it is now known that among the nautiloids there were not only demersal predators but also epipelagic animals whose life-style and reproduction differed from those of the Nautilus. However, the habits of some nautiloid orders is still poorly understood. One of the most enigmatic cephalopods is the Early Paleozoic nautiloid order Endocerida. Endocerids differ from other nautiloids: they reached gigantic sizes (up to 9 meters), had a wide siphuncle tube and were widespread and numerous during the Ordovician. Since they were an important component of many Ordovician ecosystems, without the understanding of their habits and feeding strategies a correct reconstruction of these ecosystems is impossible. Until now, endocerids have been considered as dominant apex predators, however, this assumption is based on an analogy with the Nautilus mode of life, while the features of the structure of endocerid shells do not confirm this idea and furthermore contradict it. In this article, a new hypothesis is proposed and debated: according to it, the endocerids were planktotrophic cephalopods and the largest of them were giant suspension feeders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catalysts 1 wt% palladium supported on carbon nanoglobules (CNGs) were shown to be highly active in the liquid-phase hydrogenation of various nitroarenes and provided nearly 100% selectivity to aromatic amines at complete conversion under mild conditions (323 K, 0.5 MPa, 1 h). The catalytic activity (in terms of turnover frequency and substrate conversion) and selectivity depend on the kind of CNGs support, catalyst preparation method and the reaction conditions (solvent nature). The Pd/CNGs catalyst can be repeatedly used while maintaining the same catalytic performance. The excellent performances of Pd/CNGs catalysts can be due to the globular morphology of the supports as well as the absence of micropores and pronounced surface defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]