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The results of long-term (2017–2023) measurements of CO2 emission from soil in Kursk oblast of the central chernozemic region, which were carried out using infrared gas analyzers and the closed chamber method, are considered. The obtained estimates of annual soil respiration in anthropogenic and natural ecosystems that compose the modern forest-steppe agricultural landscape in the European part of Russia vary from 651 ± 88 (unfertilized vegetable garden) to 895 ± 91 (long-term plowland), 1040 ± 55 (meadow steppes and broadleaved forests), and 1549 ± 215 (2- to 8-year-old fallow) (in g C(CO2)/(m2 year). The contribution of microbial respiration during the growing season reaches 55.5% in broadleaved forests, 72.4% in meadow steppe, and 77.6% in fallow land. Estimates of the net ecosystem carbon balance calculated as the difference between the net primary production (according to the CBM–CFS 3 model and taxation data) and heterotrophic respiration (soil respiration and CO2 emission from coarse woody debris) obtained for the three broadleaved forest sites vary from +130 g C/(m2 year) indicating carbon sink from the atmosphere, to –112 g C/(m2 year) corresponding to carbon source. In the latter case, the net source is associated with the accumulation of significant amounts of coarse woody debris as a result of the death of trees from xylophages. On arable lands, the net carbon balance indicators similarly calculated from data on the net primary production and heterotrophic respiration vary from +186 to –144 g C/(m2 year). At the same time, the overwhelming contribution (87.9%) to interannual variations in heterotrophic respiration at different fields belongs to the type of cultivated crop. A conclusion is made about the applicability of the considered approach to estimating the net balance of C in both natural and anthropogenic ecosystems. However, the great degree of uncertainty is introduced by estimates of the share of microbial respiration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valence tautomeric complexes (VT) are promising systems for creating molecular devices. From this viewpoint, valence tautomeric complexes with a hysteresis loop on the magnetic curve are of special interest as potential memory elements. The hysteresis loop is a consequence of retarded structural rearrangements which investigation is an actual problem. Recently, we have described a new VT transition taking place in a bis-dioxolene cobalt complex with imino-pyridine having a TEMPO substituent (A. A. Zolotukhin, et al., Inorg. Chem., 2017, 56, 14751-14754). Valence tautomeric transformation occurs with a hysteresis loop and is accompanied by a phase transition. The phase transition taking place during cooling is accompanied by crystal destruction. This fact makes it impossible to monitor the structural changes responsible for the hysteresis loop. The current research attempts to resolve this problem. A nickel compound of the same composition (TEMPO-imino-pyridine)Ni(3,6-DBSQ)2 was synthesized and characterized. It was established to be isostructural with the cobalt complex. It was used as an inert matrix for the dilution of the VT cobalt complex. The number of solid solutions with Co/Ni ratios of 1: 1, 1: 2, 1: 4, and 1: 8 was obtained. Variable temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements show that VT transformation with a hysteresis loop takes place in all solid solutions. The hysteresis loop is shifted to low temperatures primarily due to the shifting of its low-temperature boundary with dilution. The hysteresis width does not change significantly with dilution. DSC detected that transformations are accompanied by phase transitions at different temperatures at cooling and heating. The phase transition at the first cooling occurs at slightly lower temperatures compared with subsequent cycles. These temperatures correspond to the transition temperatures detected from the magnetic curves. The phase transition during the first cooling is accompanied by crystal destruction. Physical destruction takes place in the crystals of all solid solutions. X-ray diffraction powder patterns confirm that phase transition is accompanied by considerable reorganization of the crystal structure typical for the first order transitions. The unit cell volume of solid solutions is larger than that of pure complexes. Especially calculated crystal invariom indicated that the "lattice energy" in a solid solution is the lowest compared with that in "pure" nickel and cobalt complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single-channel, two-spectral image receiver of objects emitting in UV radiation, made in the image intensifier tube architecture, was proposed and investigated. With the help of the COMSOL Multiphysics software package, search optimal measurements of the potential on the elements of the image receiver (silicon membrane, germanium and diamond photocathode, MCP input and output sensors) were implemented, which provides the possibility of registering and presence of UV objects in relation to the terrain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have synthesized magneto-dielectric coatings with thicknesses 290, 550, 5460 and 6063 nm with an upper protective and electrically insulating layer of alumina ceramic and a lower magnetic iron-nickel layer. The coatings were formed in a helium atmosphere at forevacuum pressures (from 1.5 to 15 Pa) by electron-beam evaporation of a mixture of iron and nickel fragments, and of a solid alumina ceramic target placed in a separate crucible. Magnetic properties of the coatings have been studied by a ferromagnetic resonance technique with estimation of the effective saturation magnetization together with evaluation of the signal-to-noise ratio and relative broadening of the resonance lines. Owing to the layer of alumina ceramic, the values of relative dielectric permittivity (5.6) and electrical conductivity (0.78–3.00 mS/m) remain typical for thin-film dielectrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of calculations of electric fields, potentials, and trajectories of photoelectrons calculations of single-channel dual-spectral thermal imager, implemented in the IIT architecture are presented. The values of the optimal potentials on the control electrodes (microchannel plate, reading electrode, and photocathode) that form a picture of the images of objects and ensure the correct reading of the potential relief from the surface of the sensor-converter pyroelectric film of the image thermal receiver under discussion are determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An innovative design of thermal imaging is considered. The results of analysis and calculations of the characteristics of a thermal image receiver (3–15 μm), made in the electron-optical converter architecture, are presented. The spatial dependences of the spontaneous polarization the electric field strengths and the electric potentials on the surface of pyroelectric film are calculated. The characteristics of thermal-field-induced polarization of various pyroelectric films are obtained. The temperature dependences of various pyroelectric films polarizations are calculated by the COMSOL Multiphysics software package based on the finite element method. The possible influences of the piezoelectric effect to the images of the distribution of electric potentials of pyroelectric films are taken into account. The estimates of the values of the main characteristics of the image intensifier tube architecture are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bis-3,6-di-tert-butyl-o-benzosemiquinonato cobalt complex with tris(2,6-dimethoxyphenyl)phosphine was synthesized and characterized. Single crystal X-ray diffraction studies indicate a highly distorted square-pyramidal coordination environment of cobalt. Phosphorus atom lies in the base of pyramid. Coordination geometry essentially changes with cooling. Magnetic measurements and DFT calculations indicate quartet ground state at both temperatures (100 and 298 K). Quantum-chemical study has showed that significant variation of exchange interaction energies between spins of paramagnetic centers occurs with lowering temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three novel five-coordinated bis-dioxolene cobalt complexes were synthesized and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffractometry and magnetochemistry. Structural study indicates square-pyramidal coordination geometry around cobalt ion. Structural parameters of coordinated dioxolenes together with magnetic measurements and DFT calculation data characterize compounds as mixed valence catecholato-semiquinonate derivatives of low spin cobalt(III). Magnetic moment of complex based on methoxy-substituted dioxolene grows at the temperatures above 260 K that can be interpreted as valence tautomeric/spin-crossover transition. This transition is not completed at the temperature 350 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread successful use of recombinant Adeno-associated virus (rAAV) in gene therapy has driven the demand for scale-up manufacturing methods of vectors with optimized yield and transduction efficiency. The Baculovirus/Sf9 system is a promising platform for high yield production; however, a major drawback to using an invertebrate cell line compared to a mammalian system is a generally altered AAV capsid stoichiometry resulting in lower biological potency. Here, we introduce a term of the structural and biological "fitness" of an AAV capsid as a function of two interdependent parameters: (1) packaging efficiency (yield), and (2) transduction efficiency (infectivity). Both parameters are critically dependent on AAV capsid structural proteins VP1/2/3 stoichiometry. To identify an optimal AAV capsid composition, we developed a novel Directed Evolution (DE) protocol for assessing the structural and biological fitness of Sf9-manufactured rAAV for any given serotype. The approach involves the packaging of a combinatorial capsid library in insect Sf9 cells, followed by a library screening for high infectivity in human Cre–recombinase-expressing C12 cells. One single DE selection round, complemented by Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and guided by in silico analysis, identifies a small subset of VP1 translation initiation sites (known as Kozak sequence) encoding "fit" AAV capsids characterized by a high production yield and superior transduction efficiencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present experimental results and numerical simulation of electron-beam heating, melting, and evaporation of a solid dielectric (aluminum oxide ceramic) in medium vacuum (1–100 Pa). The indicated processes occurred as a result of interaction between a powerful continuous electron beam, generated by a fore-vacuum plasma-cathode electron source, and the surface of the solid ceramic target. During the interaction with the target, the electron beam ionized a part of the evaporated material, and starting from the onset of ceramic melting up to intense evaporation, the beam plasma has been containing ions of the ceramic material. We suggest an optimal choice of ceramic evaporation regime for the purpose of coating deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new cobalt bis-o-semiquinonato complexes, (Pyz-Phen)Co(3,6-DBSQ)2 (I) and (Bpyz)Co(3,6-DBSQ)2 (II) (Pyz-Phen = pyrazino[2,3-f][1,10]phenanthroline, Bpyz = bipyrazine, 3,6-DBSQ = 3,6-di-tert-butyl-o-benzoquinone radical anion), were synthesized. According to X-ray diffraction data, both complexes have a trigonal-prismatic geometry of the inner coordination sphere. The distribution of C–O and Co–O bond lengths, which reflects the valence state of the metal and the ligands, indicates that the complexes are formed by cobalt(II) surrounded by two semiquinone radical anions. The results of magnetochemical measurements show that the pyrazino[2,3-f][1,10]phenanthroline complex is a derivative of low-spin divalent cobalt, whereas its bipyrazine structural analogue is a high-spin cobalt(II) derivative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical simulation of the effect of a reflective electrode on the ion composition of the planar magnetron plasma, into the discharge region of which an electron beam with independently controlled electron current and energy is injected, is performed. The numerical simulation results indicate that in such a configuration, higher concentrations of ions of the working gas (argon) and the target cathode (copper) of the magnetron are achieved due to a higher degree of confinement in the region of the plasma generation of injected electrons due to their partial reflection and deflection in the retarding field of the reflective electrode. The simulation results agree satisfactorily with the experimental mass-charge composition of the plasma ions of such a magnetron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expression of concern for 'Valence tautomeric interconversion of bis-dioxolene cobalt complex with imino-pyridine functionalized by TEMPO moiety in solid solutions with isostructural nickel analogue: phase transitions and monocrystal destruction' by Michael P. Bubnov et al., Dalton Trans., 2024, 53, 9151–9160, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4DT00453A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article informs further progress in space satellite technologies is highly associated with a decrease in satellites' launch cost, which is directly proportional to satellite mass and size; this has led to the miniaturization of satellites as a design trend in the space industry. Mentions electric propulsion has become popular nowadays owing to the trend of miniaturizing the size and mass of satellites.

Photopharmacology is a young and rapidly developing field of research that offers significant potential for new insights into targeted therapy. While it primarily focuses on cancer treatment, it also holds promise for other diseases. The key feature of photopharmacological agents is the presence of a photosensitive and biologically active component in the same molecule. In our current study, we synthesized a spiropyran-based meta-stable state photoacid containing a fragment of β -estradiol. This compound exhibits negative photochromism and photocontrolled fluorescence under visible-light irradiation due to the initial stabilization of its self-protonated form in solution. We conducted comprehensive biological studies on the HeLa cells model to assess the short- and long-term cytotoxicity of the photoacid, its metabolic effects, its influence on signaling and epithelial-mesenchymal transition super-system pathways, and the proportion of the population enriched with cancer stem cells. Our findings reveal that this derivative demonstrates low cytotoxicity to HeLa cells, yet it is capable of dramatically reducing malignant cells side population enriched in cancer stem cells. Additionally, appropriate structural modification lead to an increase in some other biological effects compared to β-estradiol. In particular, our substance possesses rare properties of AP-1 suppression and demonstrates some pro-oxidant and metabolic effects, which can be regulated by visible light irradiation. As a result, the new estradiol-based photoacid may be considered a promising multi-acting photopharmacological agent for the next-generation anti-cancer research & development. [Display omitted] • Novel meta-stable state photoacid (MPA) containing β -estradiol fragment was synthesized. • MPA exhibits negative photochromism and photocontrolled fluorescence under visible-light irradiation. • New estradiol derivative demonstrates low cytotoxicity to HeLa cells and rare properties of AP-1 suppression. • New photoacid is capable of dramatically reducing malignant cells side population enriched in cancer stem cells. • Mechanisms of thermal isomerization processes and spectral properties of MPA were studied by DFT methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe our investigations of the synthesis of silicon-carbon coatings obtained by electron-beam evaporation of silicon carbide at forevacuum background gas pressure. The electron beam was generated by a forevacuum-pressure, plasma-cathode electron source operating at a gas pressure of 5–10 Pa. The effect of electron beam parameters on the morphology and tribology of the deposited coatings was explored, and the results are described here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Der Beitrag ist dem Thema der Kontinuität zwischen Gefühls- und Erfahrungstheologie in der deutschsprachigen nachkantischen Denktradition auf der einen und der späteren Religionswissenschaft (vor allem vergleichender Religionsgeschichte und Religionspsychologie) auf der anderen Seite gewidmet. Das Hauptaugenmerk liegt dabei auf methodischen Veränderungen, die das Studium der Religion so empirisch begründet und „unparteiisch" wie möglich machen sollen. Die durch Kant präzisierte protestantische Aufmerksamkeit auf die religiöse Erlebensweise stimmte mit den im europäischen Denkraum immer einflussreicheren Wahrheitskriterien der Naturwissenschaften überein. Die Betrachtung der Erfahrung im historischen und gesellschaftlichen Kontext führte zur Religionswissenschaft (Müllers Theorie versuchte die Frage zu beantworten, wie vielfältig sich der Sinn des Unendlichen in den unterschiedlichen Glaubensweisen und Traditionen gesetzmäßig widerspiegeln kann). Die Betrachtung der Erfahrung im Kontext der Entfaltung der individuellen Erlebnisse fand jedoch in der Religionspsychologie ihren Ausdruck (Vorbrodt versuchte den psychologischen und sogar den biologischen Hintergrund der Religiosität detailliert darzustellen, wie auch zu rekonstruieren). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vivo therapeutic gene transfer has emerged as a novel class of medicines. Its feasibility relies on the safe and efficacious delivery of genetic cargo to the appropriate targets. The adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector manifested itself as a preferred gene delivery vehicle enabling therapeutic gene expression for several clinical indications. Here, we cover the recent trends in AAV capsid engineering to enhance its targeting specificity, safety, and endurance. While each and every desirable trait can be individually remodeled, combining several attributes in one capsid amounts to a significant engineering challenge. Taking advantage of virion structure and phylogenetics, harnessing directed evolution, sequence analyses, and machine learning, researchers develop novel capsid variants to realize the goals of safe and enduring gene therapy. In the decades since the discovery of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), efforts have been devoted to decoding its biology, the capsid 3D framework of major serotypes, and hundreds of natural isolates while accumulating an extensive structural database, a vast source for capsid remodeling. The logical progression of these efforts is now shifting from rational to combinatorial methods of engineering whereby next-generation sequencing analysis and in silico methodologies lead to discovery of new AAV genes, cellular pathways, and phylogeny. While limited for the time being, studies using machine learning for capsid design hold the promise of engineering AAV vectors that are more efficient, safe, and enduring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-toxic colloidal superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for theranostic applications were obtained by microwave-assisted technique. Nanoparticles were synthesized by the hydrothermal method under different conditions. XANES, XRD, and XPS studies support the maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) atomic and electronic structure of the nanoparticles. XANES data analysis reveals that nanoparticles have the structure reminiscent of the macroscopic maghemite. Mossbauer spectroscopy supports the γ-Fe2O3 phase of the nanoparticles and vibration magnetometry study shows that the nanoparticles appear to be superparamagnetic. Nanoparticle shape and size were studied by TEM and DLS methods. It was shown that the nanoparticles do not exceed 20 nm. Also, the nanoparticles are found to be low-toxic and did not have significant effects on the viability of the HeLa cell culture. The obtained nanoparticles generated heat with the highest ILP value of 2.56 nHm2/kg and can be considered potential candidates as heat mediators for local magnetic hyperthermia in oncology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using sequential electron-beam evaporation of high-temperature dielectric (alumina ceramic) and magnetic (iron) targets in various gas atmospheres (helium, air, and oxygen) in medium vacuum (5–8 Pa), magneto-dielectric coatings with thickness of around 2 μm were deposited from a multicomponent beam plasma at a deposition rate of 0.2–0.3 μm/min. The coating magnetic properties were explored by the ferromagnetic resonance technique, revealing that their effective magnetization depends on the type of operating gas and varied from 4.2 to 6.8 kGs (for deposition in helium) to 0.3 kGs (in oxygen), which is characteristic of oxide ferromagnetic materials and is considerably lower than the corresponding value (∼22 kGs) for thin iron films formed by vacuum arc deposition in high vacuum. X-ray structural analysis of coatings deposited in medium vacuum in helium showed that the magnetic layer has a magnetite (Fe 3 O 4) structure. The alumina ceramic layer provides the dielectric properties of the magneto-dielectric coating; a relative dielectric constant of 6.0 and a conductivity of 8.4 mS/m were achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a method for estimation of the relatively low values (less than 100 V) of the steady-state negative potential built-up on a dielectric target irradiated by an electron beam at fore-vacuum pressure. The method is based on comparing the intensity of the emission lines of excited helium to similar emission lines for the known potential of a metal target. At low values of potential, we measured the plasma parameters in the region of the target and determined the contribution to ionization processes from each of the electron components: fast beam electrons, secondary electrons from the target, and plasma electrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New indoline spiropyran was synthesized by the cyclocondensation of 5-chlorine-substituted Fischer base with 2,7-dihydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde. This spiropyran was used to prepare a new derivative of α-lipoic acid with potential biological activity, which can be considered as a promising photopharmacological agent. The structures of the synthesized compounds were determined by NMR and IR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry and were confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Biological assays using HeLa cells showed that the spirocyclic compounds possess low cytotoxicity even at relatively high concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional characterization of mammalian olfactory receptors (ORs) remains a major challenge to ultimately understanding the olfactory code. Here, we compare the responses of the mouse Olfr73 ectopically expressed in olfactory sensory neurons using AAV gene delivery in vivo and expressed in vitro in cell culture. The response dynamics and concentration-dependence of agonists for the ectopically expressed Olfr73 were similar to those reported for the endogenous Olfr73, however the antagonism previously reported between its cognate agonist and several antagonists was not replicated in vivo. Expressing the OR in vitro reproduced the antagonism reported for short odor pulses, but not for prolonged odor exposure. Our findings suggest that both the cellular environment and the stimulus dynamics shape the functionality of Olfr73 and argue that characterizing ORs in 'native' conditions, rather than in vitro, provides a more relevant understanding of ligand-OR interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small, lightweight low-power micro-cathode arc thrusters (µCATs) with micronewton thrust are well suited to the altitude control of small satellites like CubeSats. For some applications (orbit raising, maneuvering) their thrust level needs to be improved. A possible approach for this could be the two-staged thruster—a micro-cathode thruster with a magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) stage and an external magnetic field. In this article, we discuss some discharge features that such a two-stage µCAT-MPD experiences in each configuration of the magnetic field—formed with either a permanent magnet, or a pulsed magnetic coil. We found that in both configurations of the magnetic field, the thrust can be enhanced significantly (up to factor of 10) after some threshold voltage is applied to the second stage. The pulsed magnetic coil ensures better controllability of the magnetic field; however, it causes an undesirable time delay between the plasma generation moments in both stages, which consequently results in a moderate thrust increase. The permanent magnet provides a stable thrust increase; however, it cannot be switched off, which seems to be impractical for its use in micro-satellites. In both magnetic field configurations, the emissive electromagnetic noise level was found to be low-frequency (within tens of kHz) and quite moderate in amplitude, and mechanical noise was found to be two orders of magnitude lower than the thrust generated in the normal working regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was shown that secondary electrons, emitted by the electron beam collector of a forevacuum-pressure plasma-cathode electron source, play an important role in beam plasma generation. Their yield is determined by the secondary electron emission properties of the collector, its negative potential, and the angle of incidence of the electron beam on the collector. Positioning the beam collector surface at an angle to the beam propagation direction results in spatial separation of the two plasma regions formed by the primary electron beam and by secondary electrons generated at the collector. This separation makes it possible to compare the parameters of both plasmas. It was found that the secondary plasma column is always directed perpendicular to the collector surface regardless of the primary beam angle of incidence. The secondary plasma is generated via gas ionization by secondary electrons accelerated by the collector potential. Under certain conditions (high values of secondary electron emission coefficient and collector potential), the contribution of secondary electrons to formation of the near-collector plasma can surpass the contribution from the primary electron beam itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dieser Beitrag widmet sich den bedeutsamsten theoretischen Stufen in der Vorgeschichte der Religionspsychologie in Deutschland, die sich im Laufe des langen 19. Jahrhunderts entwickelte. Die unterschiedlichen Skizzen und Projekte der psychologischen Forschung auf religiösem Gebiet wurden damals vor allem im theologischen Milieu entworfen. Die Haupttendenzen ihrer konzeptuellen Entwicklung können anhand der Bedeutungsveränderung der ‚Stichwörter' wie [religiöse] Erfahrung, Selbstbeobachtung und Wert nachverfolgt werden. Von Anfang an zielten Philosophen wie J. Fries und Theologen wie Chr. Weisse auf größtmögliche Exaktheit und Strenge der zu erarbeitenden Methode. Sie setzten dabei ihre Hoffnungen in die Selbstbeobachtung, aber der Einfluss W. Wundts ließ Zweifel daran aufkommen. Deshalb glaubten manche Theologen ab den 1890er Jahren, die unvermeidlichen Nachteile der Introspektion durch die Anwendung der interaktiven bzw. instrumentalen Methoden der psychologischen Untersuchung aufheben zu können. Außerdem waren die deutschen religionspsychologischen Entwürfe des 19. Jahrhunderts stark axiologisch orientiert: Es handelte sich um die Wertgefühle bzw. Werturteile (d. h. weltanschaulich bzw. doktrinell gefärbtes affektives Fürwahrhalten) als wesentlichster Bestandteil der Religiosität überhaupt. Diese Tendenz schwächte sich zum Ende des langen 19. Jahrhunderts ab. Summary: This paper traces the main theoretical stages, which led to the emergence of psychology of religion in Germany. Different sketches and projects of psychological research were produced by Protestant, primarily Lutheran theologians during the whole long 19th century. The reconstruction of the changing meaning of 'key words' such as [religious] experience, introspection and worth illustrates the development of concepts and ideas. From the very beginning of the 19th century philosophers like J. Fries and after him, in the middle of the century, the theologian Chr. Weisse followed an ideal of exact psychological knowledge, which had its source in introspection i. e. observation of inner experience. The later progress in experimental psychology (W. Wundt) contributed to the complication of arguments as well as to the critical rethinking of the heuristic value of introspection. Besides that, the original trait of the German theological sketches in the domain of psychology of religion consisted in their prevalent axiological orientation, shaped within the frames of Kantianism. Value judgments (Werturteile) were considered as an essential element of the religious consciousness in general. This tendency was weakened by the end of the long 19th century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies the relaxation behavior of a series of ether-ketone oligomers, considered as model compounds of poly(ether-ketone-ether) using dielectric spectroscopy. Comparison of the dynamics of the alpha relaxation of ether-ketone model compounds with that of poly(aryl-ether-ketone-ketone); Differences in the inter- and intramolecular correlations with the chain length.

Purpose: To find out the prevalence and risk factors for abdominal wall hernias in the general Russian population.Methods: 783 residents of Kryukovo rural community (Central Russia) of 10 > years were enrolled. Medical history was taken and clinical examination was performed documenting hernia presence. Ultrasound examination was performed in inconclusive situations. We considered residents with hernias at the time of examination, as well as those who had previously undergone hernia repair, to be hernia positive.Results: There were 298 (38%) men and 485 (62%) women (mean age 49.3). Abdominal wall hernias have been found in 20.9% of population. 31.2% of men and 14.6% of women were affected (p < 0.0001). Umbilical hernias was found in 10.2%, groin hernias in 8.3%, incisional in 2.4% of residents. 72% of individuals with hernia reported local pain. 70% had never asked for medical advice before, 30% had undergone hernia repair before. Male gender, age, family history were confirmed as risk factors for any hernia with OR 3.9, 1.03 and 2.7, respectively (p < 0.01). For groin hernias male gender, age, family history and rough labour were confirmed with ORs 9.2, 1.03, 2.9 (p < 0.01) and 2.1 (p < 0.05). Risk factors for umbilical hernias were male gender with OR 2.2 (p < 0.01), age, family history and BMI with ORs 1.02, 1.8 and 1.08 (p < 0.05).Conclusions: This study is the first to demonstrate prevalence of abdominal wall hernias and its risk factors in Russia. The results confirm that hernias are common in a general population pointing the need for improvement of surgical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper advances an experimental method of estimation the effectiveness of lubricants in case of an open-die cavity filling by a metal during extrusion. The technique of the statistical processing of the experimental data and the results of the study of five types of technological lubricants are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of the acceleration stage to a micro-cathode vacuum arc thruster (μCAT) increases the thrust and the specific impulse. This improves the control of small satellites' orbital parameters and, therefore, the overall efficiency of this thruster for CubeSats. In this article, we show that the second accelerating stage based on the magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) approach allows improvements not only to the thrust (almost twice, from 9 to 18 μN), but the thrust-to-power ratio (in 53%, from 3.2 to 4.9 μN W−1) of the low-power (several W) miniature (several cm—size) μCAT, firing at a pulse repetition rate of 10 Hz. A significant advantage of the μCAT-MPD approach is the griddle construction, a design that helps to overcome the loss of ions along the grid cells in the case of gridded ion acceleration stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The study aimed to investigate risk factors for venous symptoms in Russian patients with chronic venous disease (CVD).Methods: Data on 487 patients with CVD aged 18 years and more were extracted from the database of a cross-sectional population-based study on the prevalence of CVD in a rural settlement. Risk factors for venous symptoms were calculated by multiple regression analysis. The study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03900234, 1 April 2019.Results: A total of 259 patients (53.2%) had venous symptoms. Female gender, hard labour (HRs 1.8 and 1.4, p < .01), age, family history of CVD and being employed (HRs 1.009, 1.3, 1.27, p < .05) are risk factors for development of symptoms. After calculating for different complaints separately, female gender was confirmed as a risk factor for all symptoms. Family history of CVD with HR 1.4 is a risk factor for heaviness (p < .01) and fatigue (p < 0.05). Employment predicts heaviness, sensation of swelling and night cramps - HRs 1.38, 1.7 and 1.9 respectively (p < .05). Hard labour is a risk factor for sensation of swelling with HR 2.1 (p < .05), pain and night cramps (HRs 2.2 and 4.4, p < .01). Prolonged standing is associated with sensation of swelling - HR 1.05 (p < .05). Superficial venous reflux is a predictor only for venous pain (HR 2.4, p < .01).Conclusions: This study presents independent risk factors for venous symptoms in CVD patients. It demonstrates that different symptoms are associated with different factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is devoted to the visualization of intermediate representations (the so-called IR graphs) of programs in the Cloud Sisal functional language for the cloud parallel programming system (CPPS). The IR graph represents the data flow in the Cloud Sisal program; it is a hierarchical graph whose vertices correspond to simple and composite expressions and are connected by edges through the vertex ports corresponding to the operands of the expressions (arguments and results). An efficient algorithm for two-dimensional IR graph visualization is proposed. We also describe an efficient implementation of a drawing algorithm for arbitrary attributed hierarchical port graphs in the Visual Graph system. Some methods for IR graph visualization and dynamic modification as applied to Cloud Sisal program debugging are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular pathology in patients with superinvasive opisthorchiasis is characterized by severe changes in haemodynamics and myocardial metabolism, impaired automatism, excitability, and conduction of the heart muscle. An analysis of 578 cases (medical and outpatient records and reports of pathoanatomical and forensic autopsies) recorded in healthcare facilities treating opisthorchiasis patients with a hyperendemic focus was carried out. We identified a set of cardiac changes in patients with hypereosinophilic syndrome associated with superinvasive opisthorchiasis infection, classified the pathological processes in accordance with ICD-10, and described their pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the results of an investigation of the gas-metal plasma formed by electron-beam evaporation with simultaneous ionization of a copper target in a rare gas (helium) atmosphere at a pressure of 2–12 Pa. It has been found that, in addition to the expected growth of the beam-plasma density, there is a non-monotonic change (growth followed by a decrease) in the electron temperature with the increasing evaporation rate. The indicated temperature behavior of beam-plasma electrons can be explained by a numerical balance model that describes the generation of the beam-plasma from the gas and metal components having different ionization potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Three novel bis(dioxolene) manganese complexes have been synthesized. • All derivatives are characterized by X-ray structural analysis. • Structure of the ancillary ligand determines charge distribution in the complex. Abstract Three novel bis-dioxolene manganese complexes (dioxolene = the reduced forms of 3,6-di- tert -butyl- o -quinone) with iminopyridine ligands having various substituents (cyclohexyl, 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-piperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) and phenyl) at the imine nitrogen atom have been synthesized. The X-ray structural investigation has shown that the obtained compounds are characterized by different charge distribution. In spite of this complexes demonstrate close magnetic behavior. Compounds based on phenyl- and TEMPO-substituted iminopyridines containing anion-radical form of dioxolene are characterized by strong antiferromagnetic exchange interaction between unpaired electrons on the manganese ions and o -semiquinonato ligands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have explored the beam-plasma discharge excited by the injection of a continuous electron beam with energy 1–10 keV and current 10–60 mA into a cylindrical dielectric cavity at a pressure of 1–10 Pa. The plasma density and the electron temperature of the discharge are 1.2–3 times greater than for the plasma formed by electron beam transport in the vacuum chamber without a cavity. We describe a model in which there is an additional inflow of energy into the discharge from secondary electrons emitted from the cavity surface by beam electrons and from plasma ions accelerated in the near-wall sheath. We show that this discharge can be used for efficient ion etching of the inner surface of dielectric vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of a study into the new concept of the microcathode arc thruster; a thruster with an ablative anode (AA-μCAT). Such a thruster uses a triggerless discharge initiation, and has a coaxial electrode configuration where the central miniature anode is made of an ablative material (brass, solder, copper, etc), and an outer annular cathode, with optional magnetic coil. We show that the use of an ablative material (brass) increases the ion-to-arc current ratio from ∼2 to ∼4% without any focusing magnetic field, and up to 7% with a magnetic field of 0.33 T, compared with the case where the central anode is made of nonablative stainless steel, for the same pulsing power circuitry and parameters. For the first time, we demonstrate that even without a magnetic field, the AA-μCAT has a higher thrust (7 μN) and a higher thrust-to-power ratio (5.5 μN W−1) with respect to the thruster with a nonablative refractory stainless steel anode (5.5 μN and 4.8 μN W−1, respectively). This fact is direct evidence of possible improvements to the microcathode arc thruster thrust-to-power ratio due to anode ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three novel five coordinated square-pyramidal bis-dioxolene cobalt complexes with triphenylphosphine were synthesized and characterized. A complex bearing donor methoxy substituents demonstrates a doublet → sextet spin crossover transition in solid state at temperatures above 250 K. [Display omitted] Three novel five-coordinated bis-dioxolene cobalt complexes with triphenylphosphine were synthesized. Complexes differ by dioxolene ligands: 3,6-di- tert -butylcyclohexa-3,5-diene-1,2-dione (complex 1), 5,8-di- tert -butyl-2,3-dihydro-1,4-ethanoquinoxaline-6,7-dione (complex 2), 3,6-di- tert -butyl-4-methoxycyclohexa-3,5-diene-1,2-dione (complex 3). The geometry of the inner coordination core of all compounds is close to square pyramidal. The base of the pyramid is formed by oxygen atoms of the dioxolene ligands whereas phosphine occupies the apical position. The planes of dioxolenes are slightly bent relative to each other. The magnetic moment values at low temperatures correspond to one unpaired electron per molecule for all complexes. In the complex containing a methoxy group in the dioxolene ligand (3), an increase in the magnetic moment is observed upon heating above 250 K, which indicates the appearance of a fraction of molecules with a higher spin multiplicity. A slight elongation of the Co-O, Co-P distances and shortening of the C O bonds is observed at 353 K. DFT calculations using the TPSSh functional correctly reproduce geometries of the complexes as well as their electronic absorption and vibrational spectra. DFT predicts the doublet-state complexes to possess the lowest enthalpies. Gibbs free energy of sextet complex 3 in solution is lower than that of its doublet state. This agrees well with the experimental electronic absorption spectra. On the basis of TD DFT calculations, a strong NIR absorption band in the spectra of low-spin 1 and 2 is assigned to the transition involving charge transfer from cobalt to the dioxolene and PPh 3 ligands (MLCT). The doublet molecules can be described by the (↑SQ—)(Co3+)(Cat2—) ↔ (Cat2—)(Co3+)(↑SQ—) resonance structures. The sextet state in all three systems represents the (↑SQ—)(↑↑↑Co2+)(PPh 3)(↑SQ—) bis-semiquinonate complex of high-spin Co(II). On the basis of the conventional description the doublet → sextet transition in complexes can be interpreted as a VT/SCO transformation. The electron density analysis of the doublet → sextet transition in the 1 and 3 molecules reveals areas of both increase and decrease in the charge density near the Co and O atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study of the thermal behavior were performed for the first time for a series of ligand‐to‐ligand charge transfer complexes of "α‐diimine‐NiII‐catecholate" type: NiII(3,6‐Cat)(bipy) (1), NiII(3,6‐Cat)(bipytBu) (2) and NiII(3,6‐Cat)(DADdipp) (3), where 3,6‐Cat is 3,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐catecholate, bipy and bipytBu are 2,2′‐bipyridine and its 4,4′‐di‐tert‐butyl‐substituted analog, DADdipp is 1,4‐bis(2,6‐di‐iso‐propylphenyl)‐1,4‐diaza‐1,3‐butadiene. The phase transition behavior, vapor phase composition, volatility, and thermodynamics of the sublimation process (enthalpy and entropy calculations) of chromophores 1–3 were examined using DSC, TGA, EI‐MS, and the Knudsen effusion method with weight registration of the sublimated substance. The Hirshfeld surface analysis was implemented to establish a relationship between the characteristics of the crystal packing, and the thermal properties. The compounds 1–3 are distinguished by the high thermal stability and good volatility, as well as the completeness of the transition to the gas phase under low pressure conditions. An increase in ligand's bulkiness leads to a "rarefaction" of the crystal packing of the chromophore, and a corresponding rise of volatility in the order 1≤2<3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dieser Beitrag widmet sich der letzten Auseinandersetzung um Theismus und Pantheismus, die in den 1870er Jahren zwischen Immanuel Hermann Fichte und Eduard von Hartmann stattfand. Diese Kontroverse, die die beiden Denker in ihren programmatischen Werken geführt haben, führt unmittelbar die Auseinandersetzungen Jacobis mit den deutschen Idealisten fort. Es wird aufgezeigt, dass es zwischen den zwei unterschiedlichen weltanschaulichen Doktrinen weit mehr Gemeinsamkeiten gibt, als weithin angenommen wird. Die Hauptschwierigkeit aber, die die theoretische Vermittlung und Versöhnung unmöglich macht, ist die unterschiedliche Beurteilung der Tragweite des menschlichen Erkenntnisvermögens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key regularities of redox isomerism of six-coordinate bis-semiquinonato cobalt complexes in the crystalline phase are considered. The factors determining the temperature of transition between the redox isomers of various cobalt complexes (mononuclear and binuclear complexes, coordination polymers) were described. The transition parameters were shown to depend not only on the electronic and spatial structure of the ligands in a particular complex, but also on the crystal structure of the complex and intermolecular interactions in the lattice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In humans, the NFE2L2/AP-1 pathway controls more than 5% of the protein-coding genes. This pathway is responsible for cellular reactions towards ROS, xenobiotics, highly reactive substances of various nature, drug resistance and a plethora of other intracellular, intercellular and microenvironment functions. The great diversity of the pathway functions is astonishing and raises questions of how the pathway operates to provide the cell with specific enough reactions. The present review focuses on current knowledge in the field. Today, the pathway functioning is already used in developing novel pharmaceutics and diagnostics approaches, in therapy follow-up. Filling the existing blanc spots of the NFE2L2/AP-1 interactome would significantly advance the related fields and open new horizons in medical technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The actual lithostatic stresses are calculated with regard to physical characteristics and structural features of rock mass. The results are compared with the in-situ observations. It is shown that vertical stresses naturally grow with depth though their values are very different along horizontal cross sections due to the complex structure of rock mass. On the average, the vertical stresses are close in values to the lithostatic stresses. The horizontal stresses measured by the borehole slotter method are many times higher than their calculated values, which is governed by the nonunform properties of rocks or is reflective of tectonic compression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simplified two-zone model to describe fluid flow in steady-state horizontal holes with multistage hydraulic fracturing is proposed, and the analytical solution in order to calculate sizes of hydrofractures is presented. The new procedure to determine size of multistage hydrofractures in horizontal holes is tested using field data on China deposits. The calculation results prove the efficiency of the procedure in the determination of steady-state conditions. The procedure can be used in optimization of hydraulic fracturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To establish an effect of isolated phlebectomy in patients with incompetent great saphenous vein (Ambulatory Selective Varices Ablation under Local anesthesia (ASVAL) procedure) on the reflux and diameter of the trunk and to assess recurrence rate of varicose veins at one year. Material and methods: We conducted a prospective study on patients with primary varicose veins and with C2 or C2,3 or C2,3,4 or C2,4 classes of chronic venous disease and great saphenous vein incompetence. The study included 67 patients (51 women and 16 men; 75 limbs in total). Age varied from 17 to 71 years; mean age was 46.8 years (SD 13.9).We recorded the presence or absence of reflux in the great saphenous vein with duplex ultrasound before and after surgery. The recurrence of varicose veins was evaluated at 12 months. All the patients underwent isolated phlebectomy with preservation of incompetent great saphenous vein (ASVAL procedure) under local anesthesia. Results: At one year after removing of tributaries of the incompetent trunk, 66% of them were competent. Reflux persisted in 17% of great saphenous veins with reflux above mid-thigh and in 61% of trunks with reflux extended below the mid-thigh (p=0.0004). The diameter of all the veins decreased significantly no matter reflux disappeared or not. Varicose veins reoccurred in 13.5% cases. In 6.5% of limbs with a reflux above the mid-thigh, the recurrence was registered at one year, while in the limbs with the reflux below the mid-thigh at a baseline, the recurrence rate was 25% (p=0.036). Conclusion: Isolated phlebectomy with a preservation of incompetent great saphenous vein leads to disappearance of reflux in a majority of cases and to significant decrease of vein diameter in all the cases. ASVAL procedure could be considered as a less aggressive and less expensive approach in selected cases. Clear indications for isolated phlebectomy need to be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of experimental research and numerical simulation, demonstrating a considerable influence of secondary electrons on parameters of the beam-produced plasma generated at a pressure range of 1-13 Pa by injection of a continuous (with current of tens mA) electron beam into a dielectric (quartz) flask. An electron beam was formed by a fore-vacuum plasma-cathode electron source based on a hollow cathode discharge. The secondary electrons were emitted as a result of high-energy (3-8 keV) electron beam bombardment mainly a bottom end of the flask. These electrons provide an additional contribution to the ionization of the gas and also affect on the longitudinal distribution of the plasma density along the flask. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]