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Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a key role in the regenerative successions of plant communities after anthropogenic disturbances, particularly in quarries. AMF help plants with water and mineral nutrition, contributing to the restoration rate of vegetation cover. The research is aimed to study the biodiversity of AMF using molecular genetic methods at different stages of overgrowth of two quarries in the Leningrad region. Molecular genetic identification of fungi was carried out using Illumina MiSeq analysis of the ITS1 and ITS2 regions as barcodes for the identification of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) with species-level identification. An adapted and error-checked AMF genetic sequence database from NCBI was used as a reference. The study applied an optimized nucleic acid isolation technique for sandy soils. The results showed maximum AMF biodiversity at the initial stages of overgrowth – pioneer and grass stages – with minimum diversity observed at the shrub stage, where it decreased by five times. At the forest stage, the biodiversity of AMF was almost restored to the level seen at the grass stage. It has been shown that the biodiversity and species composition of AMF can vary greatly between the stages of regenerative succession and probably depends primarily on the biodiversity of grasses, with which AMF most effectively enter into symbiotic relationships. The analysis showed a reliable negative correlation between the number of AMF species and the number of woody plant species. Such studies can aid in understanding how plant-fungal symbiosis develops in regenerative successions and which AMF most effectively contribute to vegetation cover restoration.

Background. The formulas for the hydraulic calculation of the stationary gas dynamic state of the gas pipeline and the gas pipeline network are constructed only taking into account the friction resistance. But it is also considered important to take into account the different slopes of the route that contribute to a change in the pressure distribution in different directions. In this article, hydraulic formulas are derived for the movement of a compressible medium along an inclined pipeline under various flow regimes of the compressible medium. These formulas will be used to solve the problem of optimal looping of gas networks. Materials and methods. Investigation of hydraulic patterns of looping of the gas supply system, which contribute to the establishment of optimal gas flow characteristics. Results. Hydraulic patterns have been obtained that generalize the problem of optimal looping wiring for relief, the nature of pressure changes, throughput and storage capacities of the looping section has been determined, and appropriate options for laying looping have been identified, which are consistent with the case of an inclined route. Conclusions. Depending on the linear slope of the pipeline route, the conditions of increasing, constant and decreasing pressure values along the stream are highlighted and the reasons for their occurrence are explained.

Prediction of radon potential and justification of measures for reducing radon concentration in buildings necessitate the study of soil radon transport. The article presents an approach to estimating the geogenic radon potential of a site based on the study of the dependence of the radon flux from the soil on the pressure gradient. The efficacy of the method of radon flux density measurement with artificial activation of controlled advective air flow from the soil into the accumulation chamber was evaluated at an experimental site. The measuring installation consisted of a large-volume accumulation chamber (200 l), a system of pumps, flow meters, and a differential manometer. The results of measurements at 12 points on the experimental site yielded a number of values, including advective radon flux density as a function of pressure difference between the accumulation chamber and the atmosphere (in the range 4–20 Pa), radon concentration in soil air, and resistance to air flow in the soil-chamber system. The results demonstrate that at the investigated site, the potential advective radon flux density significantly exceeds the diffusive radon flux density: the corresponding radon flux density ranges are 23–870 mBq/(m2 s) and 5.5–7.0 mBq/(m2 s), respectively. The air flow resistance in the system of the soil measurement chamber varies depending on the meteorological conditions, with a range from 93 to 2400 kPa/(m3·s-1). On average, under dry conditions, the resistance to airflow is 4.8 times lower than in rain. The radon concentration in the soil varies from 0.6 to 3.2 kBq/m3, with an arithmetic mean of 1.4 kBq/m3. The dependence of the advective radon flux density, normalized to a pressure difference of 1 Pa, on the air flow resistance follows the Darcy’s law. This dependence, taking into account the soil radon concentration, characterizes the geogenic radon potential at the site. The advantages and disadvantages of the method of geogenic radon potential estimation based on the artificial activation of the pressure gradient in the measurement system are discussed.

Geometric modeling of interval sets of multidimensional space is considered. The interval set is determined as a set of k-planes of uncertain interval parameters. Interval parameters may be given by means of interval basis which are k-simplexes having vertex coordinates which are not fully presented (only up to range of values). Geometric images of the sets have combinatorial structure formed by some part of the space and bordered by a set of peace linear hyper-surfaces. Analytic model is a system of interval equations which may be transformed to equations with uncertain parameters. The set of interval parameters generate an interval function and geometric image of it is some domain in parametric space. Analyses of mutual position of all domains allows us to determine the behavior of interval sets. Some properties of interval line sets are considered in detail as examples of the proposed approach.

During the construction and assembly of the Mars 2020 mission components at two different NASA cleanrooms, several fungal strains were isolated. Based on their colony morphology, two strains that showed yeast-like appearance were further characterized for their phylogenetic position. The species-level classification of these two novel strains, using traditional colony and cell morphology methods combined with the phylogenetic reconstructions using multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) based on several gene loci (ITS, LSU, SSU, RPB1, RPB2, CYTB and TEF1), and whole genome sequencing (WGS) was carried out. This polyphasic taxonomic approach supported the conclusion that the two basidiomycetous yeasts belong to hitherto undescribed species. The strain FJI-L2-BK-P3T, isolated from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory Spacecraft Assembly Facility, was placed in the Naganishia albida clade (Filobasidiales, Tremellomycetes), but is genetically and physiologically different from other members of the clade. Another yeast strain FKI-L6-BK-PAB1T, isolated from the Kennedy Space Center Payload Hazardous and Servicing Facility, was placed in the genus Cystobasidium (Cystobasidiales, Cystobasidiomycetes) and is distantly related to C. benthicum. Here we propose two novel species with the type strains, Naganishia kalamii sp. nov. (FJI-L2-BK-P3T = NRRL 64466 = DSM 115730) and Cystobasidium onofrii sp. nov. (FKI-L6-BK-PAB1T = NRRL 64426 = DSM 114625). The phylogenetic analyses revealed that single gene phylogenies (ITS or LSU) were not conclusive, and MLSA and WGS-based phylogenies were more advantageous for species discrimination in the two genera. The genomic analysis predicted proteins associated with dehydration and desiccation stress-response and the presence of genes that are directly related to osmotolerance and psychrotolerance in both novel yeasts described. Cells of these two newly-described yeasts were exposed to UV-C radiation and compared with N. onofrii, an extremophilic UV-C resistant cold-adapted Alpine yeast. Both novel species were UV resistant, emphasizing the need for collecting and characterizing extremotolerant microbes, including yeasts, to improve microbial reduction techniques used in NASA planetary protection programs.

Background. In modern radio-electronic equipment one of the most important tasks is optimization of thermal solution to ensure effective heat dissipation and maintenance of optimal operating temperature of devices, devices, products. This is especially relevant in the conditions of constant increase in the density of components and increase in heat dissipation. Technical solutions to optimize the thermal system of radio electronic equipment are becoming increasingly important aspects in the context of increased requirements of external influencing factors to the efficiency and reliability of devices. One of the approaches attracting the attention of researchers is the use of boron arsenide heat sink. The purpose of the study is to develop and optimize the thermal system of radioelectronic equipment with the use of boron arsenide heat sink to ensure stable temperature operation of devices and increase their reliability, durability. Materials and methods. The results obtained on the basis of the analysis of the thermal characteristics of radio electronic components, modeling of heat transfer processes and evaluation of the efficiency of using boron arsenide heat sink in the thermal system are presented. Results. The developed thermal system with the use of boron arsenide heat sink allows to effectively control heat flows and provide optimal operating conditions for radio-electronic equipment. The conducted experiments and calculations confirm the improvement of heat dissipation and reduction of the risk of device overheating. Conclusion. The developed scientific and technical solutions for optimization of the thermal system of radio-electronic equipment with the use of boron arsenide heat sink provide an increase in reliability, durability and efficiency of devices, devices, products, units in conditions of increased external factors.

Background. The relevance of the study is due to the fact that today one of the most serious fundamental challenges for technology companies is that the needs for computing power are constantly growing. The business environment is increasingly moving towards a new computing paradigm. Quantum technologies may be one of the answers to this challenge. The purpose of the study is to assess the current state of quantum computing and determine the direction of development of this area, as well as obstacles and limitations in the use of quantum technologies. Materials and methods. The empirical basis of the study was research from the AIRI Institute of Artificial Intelligence, as well as research from CaixaBank, TotalEnergies, Quantinuum, authors B.G. Ibrahimov, A.O. Orujov, A.H. Hasanov, K.M. Tahirova in the article "Research and analysis efficiency fiber optical communication lines using quantum technology". Results. The author of this study presents the main advantage of quantum computing, noting that they are based on completely different principles than traditional ones, and will use their own hardware and mathematical base. The study presents the results of research and experiments in the field of quantum computing achieved by oil companies. The work done and the experience gained made it possible to formulate the key challenges for the development of quantum computing in industrial companies. Conclusions. The practical significance of this research lies in the fact that it will allow the business community, as well as government authorities, to develop a development strategy in the new computing paradigm. Will allow companies to develop effective strategies when solving optimization problems and advanced computing architectures.

Background. The paper formalizes the tasks of intelligent control of a group of unmanned aerial vehicles. The tasks of intellectual management of a group of UAV agents are evaluated. In the paradigm of the multi-agent approach, the algorithm of functioning of the information and measurement control system for a group of unmanned aerial vehicles is disclosed in detail. Materials and methods. During the analysis of known approaches to the management of a group of flight vehicles, their disadvantages are substantiated and the advantages of multi-agent management with the representation of each control object in the form of a functionally self-sufficient agent are highlighted. The algorithm of operation of a multi-agent intelligent control system for a group of UAVs is given. Results. The algorithm provides an increase in the level of autonomous self-organization when performing both planned and unplanned tasks with periodic target allocation. Conclusions. The stages of performing the tasks of intelligent control of a group of UAV agents are formulated, taking into account the influencing factors that make it possible to effectively coordinate the actions of the devices within the group. An algorithm has been developed for the operation of a multi-agent control system for a group of UAV agents, taking into account devices with limited performance characteristics, ensuring the autonomy of the group with periodic distribution of goals to perform planned tasks.

Background. Measuring the degree of deformation of solids is a necessary measure in many fields of science. Such measurements can be performed using sensor equipment containing resistance strain gauges. This type of sensor uses a special type of resistor called a resistance strain gauge. Various methods for incorporating these electronic components into a strain gauge circuit are given. Materials and methods. Using linear equations, numerical characteristics were calculated for different switching options, for example, the sensitivity of the sensor. Results and conclusions. The schemes for including different numbers of active and compensating strain gauges in a measuring bridge are considered. For different types of deformation it is necessary to use suitable switching methods, this must be taken into account when designing information-measuring and control systems.

We consider interval geometric modeling of complex multi parametric systems having a set of parameters of different character. Some of the parameters may have interval indefiniteness. System information basis is incomplete one. The processed information depends on continuous, discrete and conventional data. Geometric model has a form of matrix and each element of it corresponds to some state of the system. Each state is described by interval function of continuous input and output parameters. The set of interval functions generates some discrete set of multidimensional surfaces in discrete space. We use this approach and our modeling algorithm to find predictive model of drape coefficient. The algorithm is based on linear approximation of numerical factors in factor spaces. Interval functions make it possible for us to vary some numerical factors within the given intervals. As an example, the interval model of fabric drape coefficient is found. Fabric thickness and closeness of texture are considered as input parameters.

Many of the largest Russian companies are evaluated by international financial institutions or rating agencies in terms of their influence on ESG factors that take into account environmental issues, interaction with society and corporate governance. Such ratings can have various names, most often referred to as ESG ratings. The inherent subjectivity of the assessments, along with the lack of generally recognized standards and transparency of the methodology, cause concern both from the assessed companies and from investors and regulators. ESG ratings of Russian rating agencies are at an early stage of their development, which is reflected in a small number of evaluated companies. The purpose of the study is to study the main methodological problems in the compilation of ESG ratings identified by the academic and business community with a focus on studying the issue of choosing weights when constructing a summary indicator. The information base of the study is the data published by the rating agency RAEX, which is positioned as the largest agency in the field of non-credit ratings. A comparative analysis of the rating agency’s weight selection methods with nonparametric methods, such as methods of shell analysis, determination of preferences based on similarity with the ideal solution and calculation of the geometric mean is carried out. Based on the results of the study of the initial data of the rating agency, it can be concluded that most companies have low ratings for the environmental component and high ratings for the corporate governance component, while none of the companies has a benchmark rating. The main methodological problem in the selection of weights is the subjective nature of the weights used by the rating agency. Correlation analysis of the studied non-parametric methods showed a high correlation with each other and with the initial ratings of the rating agency, however, at the level of some individual companies, the ratings may differ depending on the chosen method.

Free-electron lasers (FELs) are the world's most brilliant light sources with rapidly evolving technological capabilities in terms of ultrabright and ultrashort pulses over a large range of photon energies. Their revolutionary and innovative developments have opened new fields of science regarding nonlinear light-matter interaction, the investigation of ultrafast processes from specific observer sites, and approaches to imaging matter with atomic resolution. A core aspect of FEL science is the study of isolated and prototypical systems in the gas phase with the possibility of addressing well-defined electronic transitions or particular atomic sites in molecules. Notably for polarization-controlled short-wavelength FELs, the gas phase offers new avenues for investigations of nonlinear and ultrafast phenomena in spin-orientated systems, for decoding the function of the chiral building blocks of life as well as steering reactions and particle emission dynamics in otherwise inaccessible ways. This roadmap comprises descriptions of technological capabilities of facilities worldwide, innovative diagnostics and instrumentation, as well as recent scientific highlights, novel methodology, and mathematical modeling. The experimental and theoretical landscape of using polarization controllable FELs for dichroic light-matter interaction in the gas phase will be discussed and comprehensively outlined to stimulate and strengthen global collaborative efforts of all disciplines.

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) have to withstand various environmental stressors alone or in combination in agriculture settings. Plant protection products are applied to achieve high crop yield, but residues of their active substances are frequently detected in bee matrices and could affect honey bee colonies. In addition, intensified agriculture could lead to resource limitation for honey bees. This study aimed to compare the response of full-sized and nucleus colonies to the combined stressors of fungicide exposure and resource limitation. A large-scale field study was conducted simultaneously at five different locations across Germany, starting in spring 2022 and continuing through spring 2023. The fungicide formulation Pictor® Active (active ingredients boscalid and pyraclostrobin) was applied according to label instructions at the maximum recommended rate on oil seed rape crops. Resource limitation was ensured by pollen restriction using a pollen trap and stressor responses were evaluated by assessing colony development, brood development, and core gut microbiome alterations. Furthermore, effects on the plant nectar microbiome were assessed since nectar inhabiting yeast are beneficial for pollination. We showed, that honey bee colonies were able to compensate for the combined stressor effects within six weeks. Nucleus colonies exposed to the combined stressors showed a short-term response with a less favorable brood to bee ratio and reduced colony development in May. No further impacts were observed in either the nucleus colonies or the full-sized colonies from July until the following spring. In addition, no fungicide-dependent differences were found in core gut and nectar microbiomes, and these differences were not distinguishable from local or environmental effects. Therefore, the provision of sufficient resources is important to increase the resilience of honey bees to a combination of stressors.

The paper presents the results of processing of the soil radon volume activity (RVA) monitoring data obtained at the Yuzhno-Kurilsk station from 2019 to 2023. There have been confirmed the patterns obtained previously for the reflection of tectonic events in the variations of RVA. There has been made a comparison showing the coincidence of the sizes of the "near" zone with those of the "far" zone, and the time of manifestation of the RVA anomaly before the earthquake.

Abstract Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I‐1079 as a zootechnical feed additive for dogs and all other Canidae. The additive is intended for use in feed for dogs and all other Canidae at a proposed minimum inclusion level of 1 × 109 CFU per kg of complete feed. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is considered by EFSA to be suitable for the qualified presumption of safety approach to safety assessment. Since the identity of the active agent has been clearly established and no concerns are expected from other components of the product, the additive is considered safe for the target species. Since the additive is intended to be used only in feed for dogs and other non‐food‐producing animals, an assessment of the safety for the consumer and the environment is not needed. The non‐coated form of the additive was shown to be non‐irritant to skin and eyes. No conclusion can be drawn on the eye irritation potential of the coated form of the additive due to the lack of data. The additive in both forms, should be considered a skin and respiratory sensitiser and any exposure through skin and respiratory tract is considered a risk. The Panel was not in the position to conclude on the efficacy of Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I‐1079 at the proposed conditions of use.

A pink-pigmented, ovoid-rod-shaped, Gram-negative bacterial strain ML10T was previously isolated in a study of a meromictic lake in British Columbia, Canada. It produces bacteriochlorophyll a, which is incorporated into the reaction center and light harvesting I complexes. This alongside no anaerobic or photoautotrophic growth supports the designation of the strain as an aerobic anoxygenic phototroph. The cells produce wavy polar flagellum and accumulate clear, refractive granules, presumed to be polyhydroxyalkanoate. Sequence of the 16S rRNA gene identified close relatedness to Salinarimonas rosea (97.85%), Salinarimonas ramus (97.92%) and Saliniramus fredricksonii (94.61%). The DNA G + C content was 72.06 mol %. Differences in cellular fatty acids and some physiological tests compared to Salinarimonadaceae members, as well as average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization, define the strain as a new species in Salinarimonas. Therefore, we propose that ML10T (=NCIMB 15586T = DSM 118510T) be classified as the type strain of a new species in the genus with the name Salinarimonas chemoclinalis sp. nov.

A polyphasic taxonomic study was carried out on the rod-shaped, orange-pigmented strain C11T, isolated from gold mine tailings. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene showed a relatedness to Brevundimonas, with a 98.4% and 98.2% similarity to Brevundimonas bacteroides and Brevundimonas variabilis, respectively. The average nucleotide identity and a digital DNA–DNA hybridization with the closest phylogenetic neighbor of strain C11T indicate distinction at the species level, further confirmed by the differences in physiology. C18:1 ω7c is the dominant cellular fatty acid. Its DNA G + C content is 68.3 mol %. Its predominant ubiquinone is Q-10; 1,2-Di-O-acyl-3-O-α-D-glucopyranuronosyl glycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, 1,2-di-O-acyl-3-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl glycerol, and 1,2-di-O-acyl-3-O-[D-glucopyranosyl-(1→4)-α-D-glucopyranuronosyl] glycerol are its major polar lipid constituents. This bacterium produces bacteriochlorophyll a and tolerates high concentrations of (μg/mL) the following: tellurium (>1500), selenium (1000 to >5000), and vanadium (>5000) oxyanions. The data support the inclusion of the strain C11T into the genus Brevundimonas as a new species with the proposed name Brevundimonas aurifodinae sp. nov. (C11T = NRRL B-61758T; =DSM 118059T).

Background. Hypotonic dysphonia occupies a special place in the structure of functional dysphonia in terms of prevalence. At the same time, the autonomic nervous system has a significant impact on the course and outcome of the disease. However, data on the neurovegetative status of patients with hypotonic dysphonia in the scientific literature are extremely rare and do not fully reflect its features.Aim. To determine the neurovegetative status of laryngological patients with hypotonic dysphonia.Materials and methods. 26 patients (6 men and 20 women) with hypotonic dysphonia and hypersensitivity of the larynx (main group) and 45 patients (13 men and 32 women) with hypersensitivity of the larynx without signs of dysphonia (comparison group) were examined as a control, data on the functional state of the autonomic nervous system in 20 practically healthy people (5 men and 15 women) aged 18 to 25 years were used. The state of vegetative parameters – vegetative tone, vegetative reactivity and vegetative activity support – were evaluated using the medical diagnostic complex “Valenta”. The examination of patients included anamnestic analysis, objective examination of lororgans according to generally accepted methods and video stroboscopy of the larynx.Results. The differences between healthy and sick people regarding neurovegetative indicators are obvious, unidirectional and indicate the existence of autonomic disorders in both groups of patients. The ratios of vegetative parameters recorded during the study indicate the involvement of autonomic nervous system not only in the development of laryngeal hypersensitivity, but also in the pathogenesis of functional dysphonia of the hypotonic type.Conclusion. Thus, neurovegetative disorders – vegetative dystonia and autonomic dysfunction – are one of the factors of the pathogenesis of hypotonic dysphonia.