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Riccia sorocarpa Bisch., commonly known as common crystalwort, is a plant belonging to the Marchantiales order with a cosmopolitan distribution among a wide range of habitats: fields, gardens, waste ground, on paths, cliff tops, and thin soil over rocks or by water bodies. However, research into the genetic aspects of this species is limited. In this study, the chromosome-scale telomere-to-telomere genome of R. sorocarpa was assembled exclusively by Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing and Pore-C technology. A high-quality chromosomal-scale assembly was obtained with a final genome size of 376.690 Mbp, contig N50 of 49.132 Mbp and 97.02% of the assembled contigs associated with the eight chromosomes. Genome assembly completeness was confirmed by BUSCO analysis accounting 91.8%. Among 27,626 total genes, 23,562 (85.29%) were functionally annotated. Moreover, collinearity of Marchantiales was analyzed as well as gene family evolution and DNA methylation profile. The availability of this genome, which is the second telomere-to-telomere liverwort assembly, opens up new avenues for in-depth analysis of R. sorocarpa genetic diversity and genomic characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The opioid crisis persists despite availability of effective opioid agonist maintenance treatments (methadone and buprenorphine). Thus, there is a need to advance novel medications for the treatment of opioid use and relapse. Objectives: We recently modeled maintenance treatment in rats and found that chronic delivery of buprenorphine and the mu opioid receptor (MOR) partial agonist TRV130 decreases relapse to oxycodone seeking and taking. In contrast, chronic delivery of the buprenorphine analog BU08028 had mixed effects on different heroin relapse-related measures. Here, we tested the effect of the mixed nociceptin (NOP) receptor/MOR partial agonist AT-201 and the NOP receptor antagonist J-113397 on different heroin relapse-related measures. Methods: We trained male and female rats to self-administer heroin (6-h/d, 14-d) in context A and then implanted osmotic minipumps containing AT-201 (0, 3.8, or 12 mg/kg/d) or J-113397 (0, 12.6, or 40 mg/kg/d). Next, we tested the effect of chronic delivery of the compounds on (1) incubation of heroin seeking in a non-drug context B, (2) extinction responding reinforced by heroin-associated discrete cues in context B, (3) context A-induced reinstatement of heroin seeking, and (4) reacquisition of heroin self-administration in context A. Results: In females, AT-201 modestly increased reacquisition of heroin self-administration and J-113397 modestly decreased incubation of heroin seeking. The compounds had no effect on the other relapse-related measures in females, and no effect on any of the measures in males. Conclusion: The NOP/MOR partial agonist AT-201 and the NOP antagonist J-113397 did not mimic buprenorphine's inhibitory effects on relapse in a rat model of opioid maintenance treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The survival and growth of plant pathogens on crop residues are key factors facilitating the dynamics of crop diseases. Spores (e.g., perithecia, and chlamydospores) and mycelium of pathogenic fungi overwinter on harvest residues, such as straw, and serve as initial inoculum infecting crops in the next growing season. Therefore, targeting overwintering fungi is essential to attaining effective disease control. Beneficial microorganisms offer advantages in controlling pathogens through their ability to colonize and exploit different environmental niches. In this study, we applied qPCR assays to explore the biocontrol performance of locally isolated strains of Clonostachys against various Fusarium pathogens. We proved that prior colonization of wheat straw by Fusarium spp. can be effectively reduced by Clonostachys rosea. We demonstrated that the efficiency of C. rosea to reduce Fusarium inoculum appears to remain at a similar level for most studied strains regardless of the target pathogen and the level of colonization of substrates by pathogens. Efficient performance of local C. rosea strains identifies possible targets for future strategies to control Fusarium diseases in cereals. Our study also highlights the challenge in sequence-based determination of C. rosea, which is crucial for the efficient selection of beneficial strains for biocontrol purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the effect of substituted β-cyclodextrins on the photophysical properties of their complexes with bisphenol A has been studied using a fluorescent method. Data on the quantum yields of fluorescence were obtained for the first time for a number of bisphenol A complexes with substituted β-cyclodextrins. It has been shown that the binding of bisphenol into a complex significantly increases the lifetime of an excited state and the quantum yield of fluorescence due to the shielding of its excited state from solvent quenching by the β-cyclodextrin molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated a number of cobalt-based hybrid catalysts (prepared as composite mixtures) for integrated Fischer–Tropsch (FT) synthesis and hydroprocessing. The metal component was a Co-based catalyst for FT synthesis prepared by impregnation (Co–Al/SiO2 in one sample and Co–Ru/SiO2 in another); the acid component was a ZSM-5 zeolite in the H-form that additionally contained Ru (incorporated by impregnation in one sample and by ion exchange in another); and the binder was boehmite. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, low-temperature argon adsorption/desorption, EDX, SEM, TEM, H2-TPD, and TPR. The promoter incorporation method was shown to affect the particle size and cobalt reduction conditions. The catalysts were tested in FT synthesis at 2.0 MPa, 240°C, H2/CO = 2, and GHSV 1000 h–1. The method for loading Ru as a hydrogenating agent was found to govern the catalytic activity as well as the group and fractional compositions of the reaction products. It was further shown that co-loading Co and Ru intensifies the hydrogenation and synthesis of hydrocarbons—including C11–C18 (diesel fuel) and in particular iso-alkanes—and minimizes the content of unsaturated hydrocarbons. Incorporating Ru into the acid component favors the isomerization activity of the catalyst. Using impregnation for this purpose maximizes the gasoline productivity (C5–C10 hydrocarbons). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of catalysts were synthesized from a composite mixture consisting of a metal component (specifically, a Co–Al2O3/SiO2 catalyst in an amount of 20–40% for the synthesis of long-chain hydrocarbons), an acid component (Beta zeolite in the H-form, 20–50%), and a binder (boehmite). The catalysts were characterized by XRD, low-temperature argon adsorption/desorption, and TPR, and tested in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis at 2.0 MPa, 240°C, and GHSV 1000 h–1. The activity and selectivity of the catalysts were compared, and the composition of the synthetic products was investigated. The content of the zeolite component was found to be critical to the cracking and isomerization activity of the catalysts. It was further shown that the ratio between the active components correlates with the C5+ productivity and the selectivity towards fuel-range hydrocarbons. The catalysts with Co–Al2O3/SiO2 to HBeta ratios of 0.75 and 1.3 were found to be optimal for high-performance synthesis of gasoline-range (C5–C10) and diesel-range (C11–C18) hydrocarbons, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of modern approaches to the development of cobalt catalyst technology used in most known ways of synthesizing hydrocarbons from CO and H2 using the Fischer–Tropsch is presented. The development of efficient catalysts solves the problem of replacing fossil fuels with ultra-clean alternative fuels and reduces their negative impact on the environment. An analysis of results from scientific and technological research, including ones obtained recently by the authors, shows current lines in developing the technology of high-performance catalysts for the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis of hydrocarbons using classical and integrated GTL technology, including the creation of new types of polyfunctional systems. The review mainly describes the catalytic characteristics of supported cobalt catalysts synthesized via impregnation and polyfunctional hybrid catalysts obtained on their basis for the selective synthesis of fuel fraction hydrocarbons. Problems of controlling selectivity, productivity, and changes in the activity and physicochemical properties of catalysts during long-term operation are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several mechanical models that reproduce the DNA structure were considered. Evolution was described in more detail for the mechanical model proposed for a DNA molecule by Englander, who suggested that nonlinear effects can play an important role in DNA dynamics. The paper discusses the mechanical model of a DNA molecule that takes into account the rotational motion of nitrogenous bases around the sugar-phosphate backbone and the influence of external periodic action on the dynamics of the molecule. When the model is numerically solved without simplifications, the DNA molecule starts oscillating under periodic external influence, and the specifics of its oscillations depend on its nucleotide sequence. Importantly, this mathematical model makes it possible to calculate the frequency and amplitude of vibrations for a particular DNA site. Calculations show that zones of open states appear more often at gene boundaries and in regions with a predominance of A–T base pairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of the zirconium diboride content and the method of initial material preparation on the corrosion properties of the composite on the 316L stainless steel matrix were determined. The powders were prepared in a Turbula mixer and a planetary mill. The corrosion properties were estimated on the basis of electrochemical tests, including open-circuit potential measurement, potentiodynamic polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The presence of the ceramic phase changes the corrosion resistance of the tested materials due to porosity, which affects the corrosion mechanism. The standard potentiodynamic tests do not reveal poor corrosion resistance of porous materials, and only 24 h tests reveal accurate corrosion resistance of composite materials. Composites cannot go into a stable passive state because of the penetration of electrolytes into the pores and tend to oxidize systematically. 24-h corrosion tests indicate that samples prepared in a planetary mill show better corrosion resistance than those prepared in a Turbula mixer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of bifunctional composite cobalt-based catalysts were prepared with various types of molecular sieves in the H-form (zeolites ZSM-5, Y, Beta, and Mordernite, and silicoaluminophosphate SAPO-11) as an acid component. The catalytic performance of these catalysts was comparatively assessed in integrated Fischer-Tropsch synthesis of fuels. The catalysts were found to exhibit high activity and high C5+ selectivity at 2.0 MPa, 240–250°C, and a gas hourly space velocity (WHSV) of 1000 h–1. With the CO conversion reaching 80.9–93.7%, the productivity was in the range of 146.4 kg/(m3cat h). The study further revealed the effects of the crystalline and porous structures of the molecular sieves on the hydrocarbon and fractional compositions of the fuel products and on the selectivity towards branched hydrocarbons. It was shown that catalysts based on HZSM-5 and HBeta zeolites are preferable for high-performance and selective synthesis of fuels. In the presence of the HZSM-5-based catalyst, an effect atypical of Fischer–Tropsch synthesis was observed for the first time: an elevation of the process temperature leads to an enhancement of C5+ selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echinococcosis is an infectious disease transferred through ingestion of food or water which has been contaminated with eggs of the Echinococcus tapeworm, which are spread by intermediate parasite hosts. Because the latter are primarily territorial, research related to diagnosis and prevention of echinococcosis requires investigation of environmental factors, which can be supported with the use of a Geographical Information System (GIS). In particular, since this type of research is usually performed by a team of medical researchers working individually with many patients, it can greatly benefit from the use of a Web-GIS, which provides remote access to data integration, storage and analysis tools. However, most existing Web-GIS solutions dedicated for disease mapping either exhibit limited functionality and interactivity (often due to the use of a thin-client approach) or are tied to a particular technological platform through a thick client based on a browser plugin. Moreover, few of the existing solutions provide user-friendly tools for data input, and none is directly integrated into the workflow of clinicians. This paper proposes a novel system architecture for Web-GIS dedicated to disease mapping, which attempts to optimize the use of client and server hardware resources while providing the user with a variety of analytic functionalities. The proposed architecture has been implemented in the form of a system for remote mapping and analysis of echinococcosis cases in Poland, which has been designed in cooperation with a major Polish hospital centre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a review of modern industrial and competitive experimental approaches to gas-to-liquid (GTL) and polyalphaolefin (PAO) oil technologies for the production of synthetic base oils. The key aspects of the synthesis of environmentally friendly isoparaffin and PAO base oils are discussed: the feedstocks, process designs, and catalysts. Based on an analysis of relevant scientific and engineering advances reported to date, the current trends of synthetic base oil technologies are shown, including the creation of novel high-performance homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts, as well as the prospects for the Fischer-Tropsch process and the GTL technology in general for the production of isoparaffin oils (including those with improved low-temperature properties) and of synthetic PAO oil components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: A subset of male rats that self-administer 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) have unusually high levels of drug intake; however, factor(s) that influence this behavior (e.g., reinforcement history and sex) are unknown. Objectives: Characterize the reinforcing potency and effectiveness of MDPV in female rats to determine whether (1) a subset of females also develop high levels of MDPV self-administration (i.e., a high-responder phenotype) and (2) the degree to which the high-responder phenotype is influenced by various reinforcement histories (i.e., responding for cocaine or food). Methods: Female Sprague Dawley rats initially responded for MDPV (0.032 mg/kg/infusion), cocaine (0.32 mg/kg/infusion), or food (45-mg grain pellet) under fixed ratio (FR) 1 and FR5 schedules of reinforcement. After 20 sessions, the cocaine- and food-history rats responded for MDPV for 20 additional sessions. Dose-response curves for MDPV were generated under FR5 and progressive ratio (PR) schedules of reinforcement. Results: A subset of rats responding for MDPV developed high levels of MDPV intake. A history of responding for cocaine, but not food, inhibited the development of high levels of MDPV intake. Large individual differences were observed in the level of self-administration when MDPV was available under an FR5, but not PR, schedule of reinforcement. Conclusions: MDPV functions as a powerful reinforcer in female rats, as has been previously reported in male rats. The substantial variability in MDPV self-administration between subjects may be related to individual differences in human drug-taking behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is shown that the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis in the presence of Co–xMn/SiO2 cobalt catalysts with a manganese content of 0.5–2 wt % is characterized by high activity and C5+ hydrocarbon selectivity. The optimum concentration of manganese as a promoter is 1 wt %. The influence of manganese on the state of the surface of the catalysts in oxide and reduced forms is studied by a number of physicochemical methods. The formation of solid solutions of cobalt and manganese oxides of the xCo3O4–(1−x)Mn3O4 type is confirmed. The relationship between the promoting effect of manganese and the structure of active sites and the character of adsorption of H2 and CO on the surface of the catalysts is ascertained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of a study of the synthesis of hydrocarbons (HC) from CO and H2 in the presence of a commercial Co–Al2O3/SiO2 catalyst at 6.0 MPa and a reaction gas recycle ratio of 2.2–6.0 for 1000 h have been described. Under these conditions, the catalyst deactivation rate depends on the selectivity for synthetic C35+ long-chain HCs (SLCHCs). An increase in the SLCHC content in the products from 27.6 to 39.8% leads to a threefold increase in the catalyst deactivation rate. With an increase in the recycle ratio from 2.2 to 6.0 at a pressure of 6.0 MPa, the olefin content in the synthesis products increases. An increase in temperature leads to a shift of the selectivity toward HCs with a shorter chain. The viscosity of LCHCs condensed in the pores decreases owing to their dilution with lighter HCs, which contributes to an increase in the number of accessible active sites of the catalyst and facilitates catalyst regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The availability and abuse of synthetic analogues of cathinone have increased dramatically around the world. Synthetic cathinones, such as 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone [MDPV] and α-pyrrolidinopentiophenone [α-PVP], are cocaine-like inhibitors of monoamine transporters and common constituents of "bath salts" or "flakka" preparations. Studies in rats suggest that MDPV and α-PVP are 3 to 4-fold more effective reinforcers than cocaine; however, comparisons of the relative reinforcing effectiveness of MDPV and α-PVP have not been reported in other species. Objectives: Accordingly, in the present study, 4 adult male rhesus monkeys responding under a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement were used to characterize the reinforcing effects of MDPV and α-PVP and to compare directly these effects with those of cocaine and methamphetamine. Results: MDPV was the most potent reinforcer, followed by α-PVP, methamphetamine, and cocaine. α-PVP was the most effective reinforcer, followed by MDPV, cocaine, and methamphetamine. In addition to making more responses to obtain MDPV and α-PVP, monkeys also responded for longer periods of time when MDPV or α-PVP was available compared with when either cocaine or methamphetamine was available for infusion. Conclusions: These studies confirm recent reports from rodents and provide strong evidence that the synthetic cathinones MDPV and α-PVP are capable of maintaining high levels of responding for prolonged periods of time, and that they function as more effective reinforcers than either cocaine or methamphetamine. The relative strength of these reinforcing effects may account for the high rates of "bath salts" use reported in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the advantages and the method of application of the SHS process in the manufacture of (NiAl/Ni3Al)/TiB2 composites. A comparison was made between sinters manufactured by FAST/SPS using two different routes to process the substrates, which formed the composite matrix. The evaluation criteria were based on measurements of selected physical, mechanical, and tribological properties, and on microstructure examinations. The evaluation has indicated a preferable method for the manufacture of composites, where the SHS reaction takes place during compaction of the powder mixture. This produces a sinter characterized not only by the high degree of sintering, and high values of the Young's modulus and HV1 hardness, but also by the satisfactory resistance to tribological wear. Additionally, the use of this process saves energy and reduces product-making cost, owing to a less expensive technique of making individual substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: "Bath salts" preparations often contain combinations of synthetic cathinones (e.g., 3,4-methylenedioxymethcathinone [methylone], 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone [MDPV]), and caffeine, and evidence suggests that mixtures of synthetic cathinones and caffeine (e.g., MDPV + caffeine or methylone + caffeine) can be more potent and/or effective reinforcers than predicted for an additive interaction. Objective: To use demand curve analyses to compare the reinforcing effectiveness of MDPV and methylone to mixtures of MDPV + caffeine and methylone + caffeine. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats acquired methylone self-administration (0.32 mg/kg/inf) under a fixed ratio (FR) 1 schedule of reinforcement and generated full dose-response curves for methylone (0.01–1 mg/kg/inf) under an FR5 schedule of reinforcement. Demand curves were then obtained for methylone, MDPV, caffeine, and methylone + caffeine and MDPV + caffeine mixtures by increasing the FR across sessions according to the following series: 3, 10, 18, 32, 56, 100, 178, etc. Results: Self-administration of methylone was rapidly acquired by 87.5% of rats and was maintained across a range of doses, producing an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve. Rank order demand for the individual constituents was MDPV > methylone > caffeine. Demand for the 3:1 (but not 10:1) methylone + caffeine mixture was greater than that for methylone alone, and demand for MDPV alone was similar to both MDPV + caffeine mixtures evaluated. Conclusions: These studies provide additional evidence that although methylone is an effective reinforcer, combining methylone with caffeine results in an enhanced reinforcing effectiveness compared to methylone alone. Thus, abused "bath salts" preparations containing synthetic cathinones and caffeine may have higher abuse liability than preparations containing only synthetic cathinones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe for the first time a method that utilizes microscale thermophoresis (MST) technology to determine polyclonal antibody affinities to small molecules. Using a novel type of heterologous MST, we have accurately measured a solution-based binding affinity of serum antibodies to heroin which was previously impossible with other currently available methods. Moreover, this mismatch approach (i.e., using a cross-reactive hapten tracer) has never been reported in the literature. When compared with equilibrium dialysis combined with ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (ED-UPLC/MS/MS), this novel MST method yields similar binding affinity values for polyclonal antibodies to the major heroin metabolites 6-AM and morphine. Additionally, we herein report the method of synthesis of this novel cross-reactive hapten, MorHap-acetamide—a useful analog for the study of heroin hapten-antibody interactions. Using heterologous MST, we were able to determine the affinities, down to nanomolar accuracies, of polyclonal antibodies to various abused opioids. While optimizing this method, we further discovered that heroin is protected from serum esterase degradation by the presence of these antibodies in a concentration-dependent manner. Lastly, using affinity data for a number of structurally different opioids, we were able to dissect the moieties that are crucial to antibody binding. The novel MST method that is presented herein can be extended to the analysis of any ligand that is prone to degradation and can be applied not only to the development of vaccines to substances of abuse but also to the analysis of small molecule/protein interactions in the presence of serum.Strategy for the determination of hapten-induced antibody affinities using Microscale thermophoresis [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physico-chemical characteristics and microstructure of cobalt silica gel catalysts with an Al2O3 additive (up to 10%) for the synthesis of hydrocarbons by the Fischer-Tropsch method are studied using a set of methods including X-ray diffraction, BET, IR spectroscopy, and temperature-programmed reduction of H2, as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Phases with a spinel structure, Со3О4, CoAl2O4, and solid solutions on their basis are identified in the samples. The addition of Al2O3 changes the degree of heterogeneity and the orientation of the cobalt crystallites in the oxide and reduced forms of the catalysts. Addition of 1% Al2O3 stabilizes Со3О4 in the spinel form with a structure close to the normal one and promotes the formation of cobalt with a unimodal distribution of particles with an average size of 8 nm. The catalyst is characterized by maximum activity and selectivity with respect to C5+ carbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition, technology, and regulations of the Milkanizer liquid energy feed (LEF) for use in feeding high-yielding cows during the periparturient period for the purpose of increasing the energy of the ration and optimizing its sugar-protein ratio has been developed. The liquid energy feed is developed based on glycerol, propylene glycol, volatile fatty acids, polysaccharides, vitamins, and microelements. One kilogram of the preparation contains 28.6 MJ. Introduction of the LEF into the ration had a positive effect on the fermentation and microbiocenosis process of the rumen—the ammonia content increased by 0.2 mg % and the content of the volatile fatty acids (VFA) grew by 0.4 mM/100 mL mainly due to the acetate and reduction in the propionate and butyrate content. The amount of bacteria and infusoria in the rumen of the cows was significantly higher. The change in the microbiological composition of the rumen affected the amylolytic and cellulosolytic activity, which in the cows of the experimental group was lower by 4.9 E/mL and higher by 4.6%, respectively. Furthermore, the digestibility of the dry and organic matter of the ration increased mainly due to the crude protein, crude fat, and unstructured carbohydrates. The use of the LEF increased the fat and protein content in the milk and positively affected its acidity, thermal stability, rennet-fermentation test; the milk also had 2.3 times less somatic cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of synthetic diesel fuel by the Fischer-Tropsch (FT) method in the presence of a composite catalyst prepared by mechanically mixing 35 wt % Co/SiO2, 30 wt % HZSM-5, and 30 wt % Al2O3 has been studied. The catalyst has been characterized by the H2 TPR, H2 TPD, NH3 TPD, XRD, SEM, and TEM methods. Catalytic properties have been studied in a fixed-bed flow reactor at 2 MPa and a GHSV of 1000 h-1 in the temperature range of 230-250°C. The highest efficiency and C5+ HC selectivity values of 130 kg/(m3 h) and 72.5%, respectively, are achieved at 250°C. The low-temperature properties of the synthetic diesel fuel meet the requirements for winter diesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of development of an industrial supported cobalt-silica gel catalyst for the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis are reported. The studies included the selection of a support and the determination of an optimum active component content, a calcination temperature, and the effect of doping with aluminum oxide on the physicochemical and catalytic properties of the Co-SiO system. The catalyst samples were characterized by a set of physicochemical methods. The on-stream stability of the supported cobalt-silica gel catalyst was tested in the continuous mode for 1000 h. In the course of the entire test cycle, the catalyst exhibited stable operation under varied synthesis temperature and gas space velocity, and it can be recommended for industrial applications. The experimental results were used for the preparation of a pilot batch of the catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We find the general form of solutions of the integral equation ∫ k( t − s) u ( s) ds = u ( t) of the convolution type for the pair of unknown functions u and u in the class of compactly supported continuously differentiable functions under the condition that the kernel k( t) has the Fourier transform $$\widetilde {{P_2}}$$ , where $$\widetilde {{P_1}}$$ and $$\widetilde {{P_2}}$$ are polynomials in the exponential e , τ > 0, with coefficients polynomial in x. If the functions $${P_l}\left( x \right) = \widetilde {{P_l}}\left( {{e^{i\tau x}}} \right)$$ , l = 1, 2, have no common zeros, then the general solution in Fourier transforms has the form U ( x) = P ( x) R( x), l = 1, 2, where R( x) is the Fourier transform of an arbitrary compactly supported continuously differentiable function r( t). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hymenolepis diminuta is an important model species in studies of therapeutics, biochemical processes, immune responses and other aspects of cestodiasis. The parasite produces numerous excretory-secretory (E-S) proteins and a glycocalyx covering its body. Our study focused on the mass spectrometry analysis of the E-S material with an objective to determine if E-S contains any new proteins, in particular those that can be identified as: antigens, vaccine candidates and drug targets. These proteins might engage directly in host-parasite interactions. Adult parasites collected from experimentally infected rats were cultured in vitro for 5 and 18h. Immunoblotting was used to verify which E-S protein bands separated in SDS-PAGE (sodium dodecyl sulfatepolyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) react with specific antibodies from sera of infected rats. We identified thirty-nine proteins by LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography mass spectrometry). Results indicated the presence of proteins that have never been identified in cestode E-S material. Immunoblotting showed the immunogenicity of E-S products of H. diminuta, most probably associated with the presence of proteins known as antigens in other flatworm species. Among identified proteins are those engaged in immunomodulatory processes (eg. HSP), in response to oxidative stress (peroxidasin) or metabolism (eg. GAPDH). The predominant functions are associated with metabolism and catalytic activity. This is the first study identifying E-S-proteins in adult tapeworms, thus providing information for better understanding host-parasite interrelationships, and may point out potential targets for vaccines or drug discovery studies, as among the proteins observed in our study are those known to be antigens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) development in five non-nodulating pea ( Pisum sativum L.) mutants ( sym7, sym11, sym14, sym34, sym38) grown in nurse pots was analyzed at the early stages of colonization by Rhizophagus irregularis. Abundance of external mycelium attached to the root surface and parameters of internal fungal colonization, i.e. intensity of colonization, and arbuscule and vesicle/spore abundance, were evaluated. Mutations in SYM7 (putative ortholog of NSP2, 'nodulation signaling pathway 2'), SYM11, and SYM14 genes resulted in considerable increase in root surface colonization and a substantial decrease in internal colonization as compared to corresponding wild-type pea lines ( wt). In addition, the mutants sym7 and sym11 displayed a highly reduced amount of arbuscules. In contrast, plants mutated for the SYM34 gene displayed strongly reduced root surface colonization. The mutant sym34 also had strongly reduced internal colonization after 10 days of growth, but did not differ from wt 10 days later. The sym38 mutant did not differ from wt. These data indicate that all pea genes analyzed, except SYM38, are essential for both nodule and AM development. The phenotype of sym34 suggested that the pea SYM34 gene is an ortholog of the Medicago truncatula NSP1 ('nodulation signaling pathway 1'), and early stop codons were in fact detected in an NSP1 homologous sequence of two sym34 mutants. In addition, full co-segregation of the allelic states of a molecular marker representing a polymorphic fragment of the hypothetical pea NSP1 gene, together with the nodulation phenotype of 50 F plants, support our hypothesis. A possible explanation for the different AM phenotypes of sym7 and sym34 is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erratum [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composites reinforced with 8 vol% TiB were subjected to the consolidation process by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The results show that the addition of boron (1 vol%) introduced to the steel matrix has a significant effect on the composite microstructure, as well as physical, mechanical and tribological properties. The full density of 97-99% was obtained in the composites sintered at a temperature of 1100C. The steel-8% TiB-1% B composite sintered at 1100C for 30 min was characterized by the highest microhardness (465 HV0.3) and Young's modulus (229 GPa), combined with the best compressive strength (1150 MPa) and abrasive wear resistance ( μ = 0.25 and W = 207.78 × 10 mm Nm). The microstructure and chemical composition were examined by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The examinations have revealed the presence of numerous fine complex borides in the microstructure of the steel-8% TiB and steel-8% TiB-1% B composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The platinum drugs cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin are highly utilized in the clinic and as a consequence have been extensively studied in the laboratory setting, sometimes by generating fluorophore-tagged analogs. Here, we synthesized two Pt(II) complexes containing ethane-1,2-diamine ligands linked to a BODIPY fluorophore, and compared their biological activity with previously reported Pt(II) complexes conjugated to carboxyfluorescein and carboxyfluorescein diacetate. The cytotoxicity and DNA damage capacity of Pt-fluorophore complexes was compared to cisplatin, and the Pt-BODIPY complexes were found to be more cytotoxic with reduced cytotoxicity in cisplatin-resistant cells. Microscopy revealed a predominately cytosolic localization, with nuclear distribution at higher concentrations. Spheroids grown from parent and resistant cells revealed penetration of Pt-BODIPY into spheroids, and retention of the cisplatin-resistant spheroid phenotype. While most activity profiles were retained for the Pt-BODIPY complexes, accumulation in resistant cells was only slightly affected, suggesting that some aspects of Pt-fluorophore cellular pharmacology deviate from cisplatin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have studied spatial variations in the components of the low-frequency dielectric permittivity and the composition of CdZnTe ( x = 0.05-0.15) crystals. The real and imaginary parts of the permittivity have been shown to correlate with the elemental state of the constituent components of the crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Programmed −1 ribosomal frameshift (−1 PRF) signals redirect translating ribosomes to slip back one base on messenger RNAs. Although well characterized in viruses, how these elements may regulate cellular gene expression is not understood. Here we describe a −1 PRF signal in the human mRNA encoding CCR5, the HIV-1 co-receptor. CCR5 mRNA-mediated −1 PRF is directed by an mRNA pseudoknot, and is stimulated by at least two microRNAs. Mapping the mRNA-miRNA interaction suggests that formation of a triplex RNA structure stimulates −1 PRF. A −1 PRF event on the CCR5 mRNA directs translating ribosomes to a premature termination codon, destabilizing it through the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay pathway. At least one additional mRNA decay pathway is also involved. Functional −1 PRF signals that seem to be regulated by miRNAs are also demonstrated in mRNAs encoding six other cytokine receptors, suggesting a novel mode through which immune responses may be fine-tuned in mammalian cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chain geometry associated with an affine group and with a linear group is studied. In particular, closely related to the respective chain geometries affine partial linear spaces and generalizations of sliced spaces are defined. The automorphisms of thus obtained structures are determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A generalization of the classical knapsack problem in which the effect of the selected items depends on the interactions between the items and may be arbitrary is considered. The mathematical model, the optimization algorithm, and the corresponding software are developed. The suggested approach is illustrated by a numerical example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of air ticket sales for a particular flight is considered. A Markov chain with discrete finite time is used as the mathematical description. A calculation procedure of the distribution of the number of tickets sold by the start of the flight is suggested. It makes it possible to estimate the optimal number of tickets sold in excess in order to use them when passengers are late for a flight or refuse to fly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of ultrasmall exposure doses (10-45 R) of gamma-radiation on both real and imaginary parts of the complex dielectric permittivity of CdZnTe crystals in the low-frequency range has been discovered. It is shown that the observed effect is related to (i) changes in the system of intrinsic structural defects, which cause a deviation of the crystal composition from stoichiometry and (ii) growth-related large-scale fluctuations of the electric potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solution of a convolution-type equation for two unknown compactly supported functions for the case in which the kernel of the integral operator has Fourier transform in the form of the ratio of two polynomials of exponentials and the right-hand side satisfies additional conditions like the evenness-oddness, absence of zeros, etc. is reduced to the solution of a system of difference equations. We suggest a solution method for that system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the correlation and spectral analyses of experimental results, we have established the influence of machining conditions on the cutting force in turning silumins using tools equipped with round polycrystalline diamond inserts. The paper gives some practical recommendations of how to choose appropriate machining conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method of calculation of stresses in a cutting tool during its engagement and disengagement with a workpiece is described. It has been found out that during the workpiece first and last revolutions the tool rake significantly differs from the values typical of the stationary stage of turning. The rake variations have an influence on the magnitude and sign of stresses on the tool face and flank surface; taking it into account permits calculating the stresses and then assessing the tool failure probability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human linkage and association studies suggest a gene(s) for nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) on chromosome 4q31–q32 at or near the platelet-derived growth factor-C (PDGF-C) locus. The mouse Pdgfc−/− knockout shows that PDGF-C is essential for palatogenesis. To evaluate the role of PDGF-C in human clefting, we performed sequence analysis and SNP genotyping using 1048 multiplex CL/P families and 1000 case–control samples from multiple geographic origins. No coding region mutations were identified, but a novel −986 C>T SNP (rs28999109) was significantly associated with CL/P (P=0.01) in cases from Chinese families yielding evidence of linkage to 4q31–q32. Significant or near-significant association was also seen for this and several other PDGF-C SNPs in families from the United States, Spain, India, Turkey, China, and Colombia, whereas no association was seen in families from the Philippines, and Guatemala, and case–controls from Brazil. The −986T allele abolished six overlapping potential transcription regulatory motifs. Transfection assays of PDGF-C promoter reporter constructs show that the −986T allele is associated with a significant decrease (up to 80%) of PDGF-C gene promoter activity. This functional polymorphism acting on a susceptible genetic background may represent a component of human CL/P etiology.European Journal of Human Genetics (2009) 17, 774–784; doi:10.1038/ejhg.2008.245; published online 17 December 2008 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pattern of variation of the cutting force components, resultant cutting force, and cut layer area at the stages of a tool entering and exiting a workpiece during the turning of silumins using round poly-crystalline diamond cutting inserts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper addresses the behavior of maximum stresses on the tool face and flank and the tool failure probability with increasing wear. The maximum tool life is calculated from the wear rate diagram. The authors provide some research findings on the influence of a Ni-resist cast iron embedded in the piston on the wear resistance of a PCD insert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spectral dependences of effective values of the real and imaginary parts of the low-frequency permittivity of the Cd1− x Zn x Te crystals ( x=0.12–0.16) with the Schottky barrier fabricated on the surface are measured. It is found that the boundary wavelengths of the characteristic portions of the measured dependences represented in the complex plane correspond to energies of photons, which cause the radical variations in the state of negatively charged and electrically neutral localized acceptor states. The variations in the energy spectrum of the localized states, which are determined by the magnitude and polarity of the electric bias applied to the Shottky barrier, are found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subject of the work was to study the effect of Si alloying addition to the aluminum on the bond strength properties, wettability, and structure of interface in the AlSi11/Al2O3 .joints. Taking advantage of the sessile drop method, the wetting of alumina substrates by liquid AlSi11 alloy or Al was studied. The sessile drop tests were carried out in the temperature range between 1023 and 1223 K, under a vacuum of 0.2 mPa for 30 or 120 minutes of contact. The shear strength results demonstrated significant improvement of shear strength of AlSi11/Al2O3 joints due to the application of silicon as an alloying addition to aluminum. Microstructural investigations of interface indicated that the silicon crystals were formed at the AlSi11/Al2O3 interface, which influenced the strengthening of these joints. A conclusion could be drawn, that the interface structure influenced the increase of the shear strength of AlSi11/Al2O3 joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses on the basis for modernizing process equipment. It discusses on the creation of highly efficient equipment which is an important component of Kedr-89 Co.'s activity. Organizing and mastering production of such equipment based on theoretical and experimental studies is a long and costly process.

Metal contacts using doped self-aligning metallization to (100) and (111) p-type silicon were investigated. Contacts formed in this manner allow the formation of a pn junction and provide front metallization for photovoltaic applications. Formulated screen-printable thick films were annealed above Ag/Si eutectic temperature of 830 °C. The annealing process resulted in a junction depth of 0.3-1.1 µm with improved Ag/Si metal contacts due to the reduction of parasitic native oxide layer via the use of a wetting agent. The technique inhibits shunts (high conductivity paths through the solar cell pn-junction caused by excessive metal penetration) due to limited solubility of Ag in Si. The technique also reduces series resistance (a parasitic resistance due to surface states that also limit solar cell performance) due to a robust thermal processing window. The use of magnesium (Mg) as a wetting agent in the thick film Ag matrix was explored. We observed a correlation between increased wetting and improved dark saturation current J02 in the absence of a pre-existing junction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spectrum and mode shapes of the natural elastic vibrations of disk-shaped ZnSe crystals are studied. Twin modes are identified which are closely related to the stress-strain state of the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single-step diffusion followed by precise etching of the diffused layer has been developed to obtain a diffusion profile appropriate for high-efficiency GaSb thermophotovoltaic (TPV) cells. The junction depth was controlled through monitoring of light current-voltage (I–V) curves (photovoltaic response) during the post-diffusion emitter-etching process. The measured photoresponses (prior to device fabrication) have been correlated with the quantum efficiencies (QEs) and the open-circuit voltages in the fabricated devices. An optimum junction depth for obtaining the highest QE and open-circuit voltage is presented based on diffusion lengths (or minority carrier lifetimes), carrier mobility, and the typical diffused impurity profile in GaSb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]