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This work is devoted to incorporating specialized self-attention blocks into deep neural network-based models for detecting and quantifying damage across various components of wind turbines using images captured by unmanned aerial vehicle cameras. In our study, we introduce YOLOv8 backbone modification using a specialized self-attention mechanism, tailored to the specific characteristics of the input data. These modifications aim to enhance the model’s ability to accurately identify and assess the extent of damage from the complex visual data provided by drone imaging. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed solution, we also publish an annotated dataset that we have compiled, which includes images of wind turbines captured by drone cameras. This dataset serves as a valuable resource for training and testing our models. Our solution, evaluated on test subsets of our dataset, has shown state-of-the-art results (mAP50-95 = 0.83234), surpassing most of widely used methods in performance metrics.

Aim. To assess the incidence of glucose metabolism disorders, administered hypoglycemic therapy and its effectiveness in a cohort of patients with previously diagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) hospitalized for scheduled lower limb joint arthroplasty. Materials and methods. The study included 502 patients. Medical history, information about previously diagnosed DM and prescribed hypoglycemic therapy were collected in all patients according to medical documentation, as well as according to the patients’ survey. Within the preoperative examination, the glucose level was measured, and in patients with previously diagnosed diabetes, measuremaent of the HbA1c level was recommended. Results. The study population included 180 (35.9%) males and 322 females (64.1%). Among them, 99 (19.7%) patients had disorders of glucose metabolism [type 1 diabetes – 1 (0.2%) patient, type 2 diabetes – 90 (17.9%) patients, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) – 8 (1.6%) patients]. In 8 patients, type 2 diabetes was newly diagnosed during the preoperative examination. HbA1c was measured before hospitalization in 26 patients with diabetes, the mean level was 7.0±1.4%. Regarding the analysis of hypoglycemic therapy, almost half of the patients with DM – 47 (47.5%) – received metformin monotherapy, 8 patients with IGT and 8 patients with newly diagnosed DM did not receive any drug therapy. Target glycemic levels during therapy were achieved in 36 (36.4%) patients, and target HbA1c levels were achieved in 21 patients. Conclusion. The cohort of patients hospitalized for elective lower limb joint arthroplasty is characterized by a relatively high incidence of glucose metabolism disorders, and in some patients, DM was newly diagnosed during the preoperative examination. Metformin is most often used as hypoglycemic therapy, and the target values of glycemia during treatment were achieved in less than half of the patients. The monitoring of the level of glycated hemoglobin is low and requires additional population analysis in order to determine the causes and optimize the strategy of patient management.

Background The management of pulmonary nodules plays a critical role in early detection of lung cancer. Computed tomography (CT) has led to a stage-shift towards early-stage lung cancer, but regional differences in survival rates have been reported in Denmark. This study aimed to evaluate whether variations in nodule management among Danish health regions contributed to these differences.Material and Methods The Danish Health Data Authority and Danish Lung Cancer Registry provided data on CT usage and lung cancer stage distribution, respectively. Auditing of lung cancer stage IA patient referrals and nodule management of stage IV lung cancer patients was conducted in seven Danish lung cancer investigation centers, covering four of the five Danish health regions. CT scans were performed up to 2 years before the patients’ diagnosis from 2019 to 2021.Results CT usage has increased steadily in Denmark over the past decade, with a simultaneous increase in the proportion of early-stage lung cancers, particularly stage IA. However, one Danish health region, Region Zealand, exhibited lower rates of early-stage lung cancer and overall survival despite a CT usage roughly similar to that of the other health regions. The audit did not find significant differences in pulmonary nodule management or a higher number of missed nodules by radiologists in this region compared to others.Conclusion This study suggests that a high CT scan volume alone is not sufficient for the early detection of lung cancer. Factors beyond hospital management practices, such as patient-related delays in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas, may contribute to regional differences in survival rates. This has implications for future strategies for reducing these differences.

Abstract In this paper, we first present an experimental demonstration of terahertz radiation pulse generation with energy up to 5 pJ under the electron emission during ultrafast optical discharge of a vacuum photodiode. We use a femtosecond optical excitation of metallic copper photocathode for the generation of ultrashort electron bunch and up to 45 kV/cm external electric field for the photo-emitted electron acceleration. Measurements of terahertz pulses energy as a function of emitted charge density, incidence angle of optical radiation and applied electric field have been provided. Spectral and polarization characteristics of generated terahertz pulses have also been studied. The proposed semi-analytical model and simulations in COMSOL Multiphysics prove the experimental data and allow for the optimization of experimental conditions aimed at flexible control of radiation parameters. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Kawasaki disease (KD) is a multisystem inflammatory illness of infants and young children that can result in acute vasculitis. The mechanism of coronary artery aneurysms (CAA) in KD despite intravenous gamma globulin (IVIG) treatment is not known. We performed a Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) association analysis in a racially diverse cohort of KD patients treated with IVIG, both using AHA guidelines. We defined coronary aneurysm (CAA) (N = 234) as coronary z ≥ 2.5 and large coronary aneurysm (CAA/L) (N = 92) as z ≥ 5.0. We conducted logistic regression models to examine the association of genetic variants with CAA/L during acute KD and with persistence >6 weeks using an additive model between cases and 238 controls with no CAA. We adjusted for age, gender and three principal components of genetic ancestry. The top significant variants associated with CAA/L were in the intergenic regions (rs62154092 p

Introduction. The problem of preservation of decorative elements on the roofs of multi-apartment residential buildings is considered. The authors note the historical and architectural value of such structures in creating the appearance of the city. An analysis of the current technical condition of decorative elements of roofs is carried out using the example of individual apartment buildings in Samara and, based on a comprehensive analysis, recommendations are given for their further operation. The problematics is investigated by the authors using the example of Samara city and, accordingly, are based on the practical basis of this city. At the same time, the questions and proposals posed in the paper are relevant and can be extended to the residential development of most Russian cities. This is due to the fact that the organizational and legal field of this problem is established at the level of federal legislation, and in the regions it develops only in the form of not the most significant features.Materials and methods. When developing the present problem, the authors used a set of generally accepted research methods — observation, comparison, measurement, abstraction — in adaptation to the object and subject of research. The research is based on the materials and results of the author’s own research in relation to technical, cost and regulatory parameters of the repair of decorative elements of flat roofs of multi-apartment high-rise buildings, made according to a standard and individual project in Samara city.Results. The regulatory and legal framework in force in relation to the overhaul of the common property of an apartment building is analyzed. Defects and problems were identified — corrosion of metal structures, destruction of wooden elements. The impact of dismantling of structures on the appearance of buildings is assessed. A comparative assessment of the cost of repair and restoration of roof elements is given. The current regulatory framework for overhaul in apartment buildings is analyzed. It is noted that there is no clear regulation of financing the repair of the roof structures under consideration. The estimated cost of overhaul of additional roof elements is determined according to alternative options for its production. The conclusion is made about the need for an integrated approach, taking into account the technical condition, financial capabilities and legal regulation to solve the identified problem.Conclusions. Proposals are made to improve the normative-methodical and normative-technical mechanisms to ensure the safety of historically and architecturally valuable elements of roofs and the safe operation of apartment buildings in Samara.

The issue of orders portfolio formation becomes more and more actual in terms of evolving economy crisis, consequences of which turned into the growing competition both in domestic and foreign markets. Goals of research – formalization of order portfolio formation procedure. The purpose of our academic research – to develop the algorithm for order portfolio formation suitable for iron and steel works. The article suggests the possibility of using break-even analysis indices, in particular, the research introduces a «break-even point» concept in terms of efficient order portfolio. Usage of break-even point indices is more preferable to others (marginal revenue, cost-effectiveness and etc.) the main advantages of the suggested analysis are: 1) great information capacity from the point of management decision making; 2) the suggested analysis is less governed by price factor than marginal revenue.

The problem that the research is aimed at is caused by the need to resolve the contradiction between the public demand for the quality of training the future digital school teacher regarding the formation of information culture, creativity, communication skills, the ability to work in a team, readiness for change, and the insufficiently developed methodological base for training graduates that meet these requirements. The purpose of the study is to theoretically substantiate and experimentally test the need to involve students of pedagogical specialties in practical activities to design a system of specially selected tasks as an important condition for training future digital school tutors. The methodology of the research is the analysis and generalization of scientific works on the organization of cognitive activity of students of pedagogical specialties. Learning.apps, interactive worksheets, cloud services, Learnis, etc. are used as software tools for the design of practice results. The results of the study. The types of tasks (situational and motivational; reference; borderline) are identified. The development in the direction of intensification and extension is proposed for the system of tasks. The features of organizing practice and the methodological component are described on the example of studying topics of the theory and methodology of teaching computer science. The conclusion gives findings confirming that involving students in practical activities to develop a system of their own tasks really contribute to the formation of professional competencies of future digital school tutors.

Abstract Background African ancestry populations have the highest burden of stroke worldwide, yet the genetic basis of stroke in these populations is obscure. The Stroke Investigative Research and Educational Network (SIREN) is a multicenter study involving 16 sites in West Africa. We conducted the first-ever genome-wide association study (GWAS) of stroke in indigenous Africans. Methods Cases were consecutively recruited consenting adults (aged > 18 years) with neuroimaging-confirmed ischemic stroke. Stroke-free controls were ascertained using a locally validated Questionnaire for Verifying Stroke-Free Status. DNA genotyping with the H3Africa array was performed, and following initial quality control, GWAS datasets were imputed into the NIH Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) release2 from BioData Catalyst. Furthermore, we performed fine-mapping, trans-ethnic meta-analysis, and in silico functional characterization to identify likely causal variants with a functional interpretation. Results We observed genome-wide significant (P-value < 5.0E−8) SNPs associations near AADACL2 and miRNA (MIR5186) genes in chromosome 3 after adjusting for hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiac status in the base model as covariates. SNPs near the miRNA (MIR4458) gene in chromosome 5 were also associated with stroke (P-value < 1.0E−6). The putative genes near AADACL2, MIR5186, and MIR4458 genes were protective and novel. SNPs associations with stroke in chromosome 2 were more than 77 kb from the closest gene LINC01854 and SNPs in chromosome 7 were more than 116 kb to the closest gene LINC01446 (P-value < 1.0E−6). In addition, we observed SNPs in genes STXBP5-AS1 (chromosome 6), GALTN9 (chromosome 12), FANCA (chromosome 16), and DLGAP1 (chromosome 18) (P-value < 1.0E−6). Both genomic regions near genes AADACL2 and MIR4458 remained significant following fine mapping. Conclusions Our findings identify potential roles of regulatory miRNA, intergenic non-coding DNA, and intronic non-coding RNA in the biology of ischemic stroke. These findings reveal new molecular targets that promise to help close the current gaps in accurate African ancestry-based genetic stroke’s risk prediction and development of new targeted interventions to prevent or treat stroke.

The article presents the results of a study of the influence of B, Bi, Ca, Sn, and Sb additives on the structure, composition, and properties of individual phases and mechanical properties of castings made of hypereutectic high-chromium cast iron (HCCI), similar in composition to G-X300CrMo27-1 cast iron. Additives of these elements were introduced into the melt before cooling at an amount of 0.2 wt.%. The ingots were obtained at a melt cooling rate in the crystallization range of 0.083–0.116 ℃/s and at 4.67–5 ℃/s. When studying the structure, the parameters and proportion of primary carbides, and the proportion of eutectic carbides were determined and a description was given of the change in the austenitic matrix. Using microprobe analysis and microhardness measurements, changes in the composition and hardness of primary, eutectic carbides and the matrix were determined. Hardness HV, bending strength, and abrasive wear resistance were determined. It has been shown that depending on the cooling rate, the effect of these additives on the structure and properties of castings changes. The mechanism of influence of these elements on the process of crystallization of primary carbides in HCCI is considered. Based on the data obtained, it is proposed to use Ca as a modifying additive when producing castings from HCCI of a hypereutectic composition under slow cooling conditions, and B under fast cooling conditions. This makes it possible to increase the wear resistance of castings.

The problem of the research is due to the need to create a special engineering style of thinking within the digital educational space, which implies readiness for research, creativity, responsibility, and supported by modern high-tech tools in order to provide resources for solving the problems of Industry 4.0. The purpose of the study is to theoretically substantiate and experimentally verify the effectiveness of using 3D technologies for the formation of engineering thinking as an important competence of a high-demand specialist in the digital society. The research methodology is a theoretical and methodological analysis and generalization of fundamental scientific works in the field of digitalization of education, training of engineering and technical personnel, three-dimensional modeling, application of software for the development of thinking. The pedagogical experiment uses the example of assessing the formation of personality qualities and skills that form the basis of engineering thinking. The sign criterion G is used as a method of statistical processing and verification of the reliability of the obtained results. Research results. The authors clarify the concept "engineering thinking" in the context of training specialists for Industry 4.0 and substantiate the potential of 3D technologies for the formation of engineering thinking. They formulate the principles and supporting directions of the mentor of students' research activities in 3D modeling. The authors present a system of work on an interdisciplinary project underlining skills significant for the formation of engineering thinking. The authors come to the conclusion that the use of 3D-technologies in training creates additional conditions for the development of qualities and skills that ensure the integrity of engineering thinking formation as a universal competence of a high-demand professional of the future.

Problem statement. The implementation of 3D modeling elements in the in-demand specialists’ training of the socio-cultural sphere is in line with the recommendations of UNESCO and the priorities of Russia’s state cultural policy. The study aimed at substantiating the effectiveness of the three-dimensional computer graphics usage for specialists’ training to improve the quality of their education. Methodology . Theoretical and methodological analysis and generalization of fundamental scientific works on the research problem, processing of test results, and three-dimensional models of cultural objects are applied. The pedagogical experiment involved 49 students of the direction of training 51.03.03 Socio-cultural Activities (level - bachelor’s degree) of Orel State Institute of Culture. Pearson’s χ2 test was used as a statistical processing method. Results . The features of the use of three-dimensional computer graphics in the training of specialists in the socio-cultural sphere to improve the quality of their training are determined: activation of information communication; support for solving economic and engineering problems as components of socio-cultural activities; automation of a large number of calculations, etc. Statistically significant differences in qualitative changes in the pedagogical system were revealed. Conclusion . The use of three-dimensional computer graphics in the training of specialists in the socio-cultural sphere will help to increase the level of their professional training while providing a set of conditions: a combination of design, educational and research activities; orientation to the performance of labor functions; application of fundamental theoretical information on technologies for organizing leisure activities in real socio-cultural activities, etc.

The group composition of alcohol extracts from balsamic poplar leaves Populus balsamifera L, growing in the Krasnoyarsk Krai, Krasnoyarsk (Russia) were examined in this work. Leaves selected in different phases of the growing season were used: June, July, August – fresh, September – fallen leaves. Poplar leaves contain up to 56% of extractive substances, alcohol-soluble substances account for up to 67% of the extract amount. Alcohol extracts were fractionated using solvents with increasing polarity: petroleum ether (boiling point 40 to 70 °C), diethyl ether, ethyl acetate, butanol. The results showed that the alcohol extracts of poplar leaves are dominated by substances extracted with ethyl acetate (up to 60%). The study of the component composition of volatile compounds of individual fractions of alcohol extracts was performed on an Agilent chromatography-mass spectrometer. The presence of various groups of compounds was established: hydrocarbons, alcohols, acids, ketones, etc., including biologically active substances such as megasterol acetate, ℽ-sitosterol, sitosterol, 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-2-hexadecene-1-ol, diethyltoluamide, 4-methoxy-3-nitrobiphenyl, and other compounds that it can be used in different applications.

Monitoring the circulation of the measles virus and studying its genetic diversity is an important component of the measles elimination program. A methodological approach to molecular genetic studies and their interpretation in the measles surveillance was developed in the early 2000s. During its development, clear areas of circulation of each genotype of the virus were identified, therefore, the determination of viruses genotypes was proposed to monitor circulation and identify transmission pathways. However, in the future, due to a significant decrease in the number of active genotypes, an approach based on sub-genotyping was proposed: determining not only the genotype of the virus, but also its genetic lineage/genetic variant. The Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network (GMRLN) systematically monitors the circulation of the measles virus at the sub-genotypic level, depositing the results in a specialized database MeaNS2. It is this database that is the most complete and reliable source of information about the genetic characteristic of measles viruses. This review presents both historical information and the latest data on the global genetic diversity of the measles virus.

Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable anthroponotic infection. Despite the policy of active measles vaccination for entire global population, measles has not completely disappeared, it wanes and waxes in outbreaks. It has been shown that not only the unvaccinated but also the vaccinated, which is quite understandable, subjects are involved in measles progression. The study was aimed at assessing features of the immune response in adult measles patients at rise in disease incidence upon its eradication. 1.158 blood sera from measles patients aged 18 to 70 living in Moscow and the Moscow region were studied by ELISA (Euroimmun, Germany). The vast majority of subjects were aged 1840 years comprising 72.36% cases. 69 sera collected at a later timepoint (1020 days from rash onset) were excluded and analyzed separately. According to anti-measles IgG and avidity level, the data were stratified as follows: group 1 with a primary type of immune response 582 sera (53.44%), not vaccinated in childhood; group 2 (secondary response) 446 sera (40.96%), vaccinated in childhood, but lost anti-measles antibodies; group 3 with intermediate level of parameters 61 sera. To clarify the type of immune response in group 3, an additional analysis of the spectrum of anti-measles antibody subclasses was carried out. It was shown that a mixed type of response was detected in this group: 31 subjects mainly had primary immune response, and 30 subjects secondary immune response. At the same time, 40 out of 61 subjects were vaccinated against measles 13 months prior to disease onset, i.e., it was overlapped on arising post-vaccination immunity. Thus, the previously identified trend towards the loss of post-vaccination immunity among older schoolchildren and young adults vaccinated in childhood who are involved in the epidemic process continues to worsen.

In this paper, a comparative analysis and numerical simulation of operation of two types of amplitude binary gratings (conventional and fork), both in the focal plane and near-field diffraction under illumination by mode beams with different polarization states, were performed. The simulation of the field formation in the focal plane was performed using the Richards–Wolf formalism. The diffraction calculation in the near-field diffraction was performed based on the FDTD method, considering the 3D structure of optical elements. The possibility of multiplying the incident beam in different diffraction orders of binary gratings and the polarization transformation associated with spin–orbit interaction at tight focusing were shown. In this case, various polarization transformations were formed in ±1 diffraction orders of the fork grating due to different signs of the introduced vortex-like phase singularity. The obtained results can be useful for the laser processing of materials and surface structuring.

Introduction. Improving the management system of industrial and consumption waste of the Russian Railways, waste processing and recycling are some of the main focuses of the company's environmental strategy.Materials and methods. The paper statistically analyses official data on the generation of industrial and consumption waste for 2015-2021, examines waste generation trends by hazard classes and volumes of annual waste dumping.Results. The statistical analysis shows that the process of generation of industrial and consumption waste and the annual amount of waste over the past seven years slightly decreases. The share of hazardous waste is approximately 25% of the total waste mass. This period sees total landfill volumes tend to decrease, likely due to less use of highly hazardous goods, more installations for the safe processing of industrial waste, and measures to increase waste recycling.Discussion and conclusion. New approaches help decrease waste generation: recycling of worn sleepers, waste oil, ferrous and non-ferrous scrap and other waste; electronic document management to save paper and cardboard.

Aim. To analyze the contribution of V. K. Kulagin, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor of the Department of Pathological Physiology of the Military Medical Academy into development of scientific perspectives concerning the etiology, pathogenesis and therapy of traumatic shock, following thorough analysis of 1950–1980s series of featured publications. We analyzed the general theoretical views of the scientist, his methodological preferences in organizing laboratory experiments, the methodology for developing standard models for conducting experiments, choosing indicators and evaluation criteria. We brought to recollection the proposed by V. K. Kulagin approach to traumatic shock staging and phases relative to the leading pathogenetic factor; highlighted some of the key topics and results of his experimental research related to individual resistance to shock, prerequisites of shock irreversibility and factors complicating the course of traumatic shock.Conclusion. Theoretical and experimental inventions of V. K. Kulagin are relevant to the present day and are of great importance for further progress of medical science.

The article presents the results of study of 73 varieties of soft spring wheat from the new samples in the world collection of the Federal Research Center "All-Russian Institute of Plant Breeding named after N. I. Vavilov" in order to include the productive, drought-resistant samples into the working collection on crop breeding in the conditions of the Kirov region. According to the results of the field assessment of 2019...2021, which includes an analysis of the elements of productivity and yield structure, 23 samples were identified as sources of breeding-valuable traits. According to the lowest depression of thevalues of productivity elements in a dry year (2021, НTC = 1.07) relative to the optimal moisture supply (2019, НTC = 1.30), domestic medium-ripened samples RIMA (Moscow region, Ryazan region), Tobolskaya (Altai Kr.), Ulyanovskaya 105 and Ekada 70 (Ulyanovsk region) are classified as drought-resistant, which allows them to be included into breeding work for resistance to summer drought. Resistance to early spring drought was evaluated in the laboratory conditions under simulated drought (sucrose solution, osmotic pressure 6 atm.) and normal humidification conditions (distilled water, 0 atm.) according to the percentage of germination of seeds and the parameters of one seedling (the number of seminal roots, the mass of dry matter). As the result, 19 potentially drought-resistant samples of soft spring wheat were identified. For inclusion into breeding work for resistance to early spring drought, medium-early varieties Zauralochka (Kurgan region, Russia) and Chayka (Belarus), medium-ripened RIMA (Moscow region, Ryazan region, Russia) and Uralosibirskaya (Omsk region, Russia) are recommended.Highly productive samples with complex drought resistance Ekada 109 (Tatarstan, Russia) and Ekaterina (Sverdlovsk region, Russia) have been identified, which provides them to be considered as universal donors for the creation of varieties of soft spring wheat adapted to the conditions of the Kirov region.

The national program ‘Digital Economy of the Russian Federation’ was elaborated by the decree of the President of the Russian Federation dated May 7, 2018 and now it is being implemented in 10 principle lines. For instance, possibilities to use artificial intellect to provide sustainable economic development and economic security of business entities and state as a whole are analyzed. The necessity to introduce artificial intellect in the system of risk management at business entities is studied. Changes in the volume of Russian and overseas markets in artificial intellect technologies are estimated. It is underlined that the foundation of developing national economy in current circumstances and providing the adequate level of economic security are formed by transition to neo-industrial model of economy development. In fact, competitive advantages can be obtained by economy, which allows the maximum use of innovation technologies. The authors identify problems hindering the development of artificial intellect technologies in Russia, which can be overcome only on the basis of complex and systematic approach. They point out that artificial intellect technologies can be used in different fields of business entities’ work, as they can eliminate the majority of the so-called system conflicts and contradictions at the expense of specific individual resources.

Relevance. The need to ensure the integrity of the wellbore, composed of clay rocks, and the stability of drilling fluid when drilling in conditions of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate aggression. Aim. To determine experimentally the effect of carbonic acid, bicarbonate and carbonate ions on clay depending on the presence of calcium ions in the dispersion medium. Objects. Water contaminated with carbonic acid, bicarbonate and carbonate ions with different equivalent concentrations of calcium ions. Methods. Inhibitory and peptizing properties of the objects of study in relation to the clay rock were studied by the method of clay swelling when it was in the water under study (on the Zhigacha-Yarov device); methods of chemical analysis (complexometric and acid-base titration) and potentiometry were used to control water composition and properties. Results. The peptizing and inhibiting properties of drilling fluid depend significantly on the form of carbonic acid present in the dispersion medium and the equivalent content of calcium ions (Ca2+). It was found that carbonic acid (H2CO3) contributes to clay inhibition (coagulation), bicarbonate ions (HCO3–) and carbonate ions (CO32–) – clay peptization. Calcium ions (Ca2+) do not have an inhibitory effect in the presence of carbonic acid (H2CO3) – hydrogen ions (H+) displace exchangeable cations from the interlayer space of clays and, due to their small diameter, independently inhibit clay swelling. In the presence of bicarbonate ions (HCO3–), calcium ions (Ca2+) also do not have an inhibitory effect – bicarbonate ions (HCO3–), being in a dispersion medium, draw calcium ions (Ca2+) from the clay surface, increasing the thickness of the electrical double layer. In the presence of carbonate ions (CO32–) the calcium ions (Ca2+) precipitate and effectively prevent clay peptization only in the presence of hydroxide ions (OH–). The authors proved experimentally that calcium ions (Ca2+) in the presence of hydroxide ions (OH–) have a better inhibitory ability than hydrogen ions (H+) of dissociated carbonic acid (H2CO3). A mechanism was proposed for inhibiting the swelling of clays by calcium ions (Ca2+) in the presence of hydroxide ions (OH-), based on the adsorption of the hydrated calcium ion (Ca2+) on a silica tetrahedral sheet due to the preliminary protonation of its oxygen atoms by water molecules. The conditions required for clay effective peptization are formulated: [CO32–]≥0; [OH–]>0, [Ca2+]=0, pH>11.5; for clay swelling inhibition: [CO32–]=0; [OH–]>0, [Ca2+]>0 and pH>11.5.

Introduction. The article examines the phenomenon of the Belarusian intelligentsia in the conditions of the German occupation of the period 1941-1944. The author defines the types of interaction, motives, and political intentions of this social group in the conditions of war. Materials and methods. The territorial scope of the study is limited to the General District of Belarus, within which the head of the civil administration V. Kube pursued a policy of so-called "Belarusization", aimed, among other things, at attracting the local intellectual elite to interact with the occupation authorities. Representatives of the Belarusian intelligentsia, who chose the path of collaboration, were guided by various motives. Its politically active part sought to implement the Belarusian national project under the Nazi protectorate, the embodiment of which would be the acquisition of sovereignty.Results. Representatives of this group actively participated in the activities of the German occupation authorities at various levels. And representatives of the Belarusian cultural elite saw in cooperation with the German authorities the possibility of creative self-realization in the national language.Conclusion. In both cases, they were the main instrument of German propaganda in the district. Their ethnicity and fluency in the Belarusian language were an additional means of verifying the content of propaganda. For their part, representatives of the Belarusian intelligentsia, who purposefully and consciously interacted with the German authorities, saw them as a means to achieve their own goals, hoping that in the conditions of the Nazi regime, the implementation of a national-state project is possible.

Article considers the influence of additions of rare earth elements such as Sm, La, Ce, Nd, and Y on the structure and properties of hypereutectic high-chromium white cast iron of grade G-X300CrMo27-2. To obtain an increased content of carbides in the studied cast iron samples, the carbon content was 3.75–3.9 and 4.1–4.2 wt%. The amount of rare earth elements additives added to the melt is 0.2% by weight. Data were obtained on the effect of overheating and cooling rate in the crystallization interval on the effect of rare earth additives, the structure and properties of white cast iron castings are given. According to the results of the microprobe analysis, it was shown that, under the chosen crystallization conditions, Sm, La, and Ce can form solid solutions with primary and eutectic carbides (FeCr)7C3. La and Ce form solid solutions with austenite. Nd and Y do not dissolve in iron chromium phases. All listed rare earth elements form phosphides and oxyphosphides. Experimental data are presented on the effect of rare earth elements on the size of primary (FeCr)7C3 carbides and a hypothesis is proposed on the effect of rare earth elements on the crystallization process of hypereutectic chromium white cast irons. Experimental data are presented on the effect of REE additives on the microhardness of phases, hardness, strength, and resistance to abrasive wear of cast iron castings. It was found that the introduction of these additives into hypereutectic chromium white cast iron does not contribute to the modification of the structure and leads to an increase in the size of primary crystals, as well as a decrease in their mechanical properties. However, the addition of Y increases the abrasive wear resistance, but reduces the strength of castings made from such white cast iron.

Abstract Background and Aims Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease caused by a relative insulin deficiency compared to the significant insulin requirement needed by the body to achieve glycemic control. T2D in adolescence appears to be increasing in prevalence over the past several decades, necessitating studies to understand for the onset of the disease to occur early in the lifespan. Given the high burden of disease, specifically in young African American adolescents, our study chose to focus initially on feasibility of recruitment of this population. Methods Data was collected at a single study center at Children's of Alabama. The protocol was completed as part of routine care or at a study visit. The study team was able to leverage the Electronic Medical Record to prescreen eligible patients to discuss the study. A variety of times of day were utilized to improve likely of success with reaching potential participants. Inclusion criteria for patients with T2D was focused on the adolescent population (ages 12–18 years), with no history of an obesity syndrome. DNA methylation age will be calculated using the EPIC 850K array. Statistical analysis will be done using linear regression analysis, adjusting for covariates. Conclusions This study's aim was to screen and enroll young African American adolescents for a study investigating epigenetic aging and T2D. Our study found that more direct contact (face‐to‐face‐ or phone call) improve success of recruitment. Leveraging the electronic medical record also helped improve success with pre‐screening participants. Challenges included recruiting participants who might come from long distances to a tertiary care center. Consolidating appointments helped improve the success of reaching these participants. Other challenges included frequent address changes and changed phone numbers. Close attention to the barriers as well as the successes will aid in understanding effective strategies for this important population.

AbstractBackground Chemoradiation therapy (CRT) is the standard of care for squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA), the most common type of anal cancer. However, approximately one fourth of patients still relapse after CRT.Methods We used RNA-sequencing technology to characterize coding and non-coding transcripts in tumor tissues from CRT-treated SCCA patients and compare them between 9 non-recurrent and 3 recurrent cases. RNA was extracted from FFPE tissues. Library preparations for RNA-sequencing were created using SMARTer Stranded Total RNA-Seq Kit. All libraries were pooled and sequenced on a NovaSeq 6000. Function and pathway enrichment analysis was performed with Metascape and enrichment of gene ontology (GO) was performed with Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA).Results There were 449 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) observed (390 mRNA, 12 miRNA, 17 lincRNA and 18 snRNA) between the two groups. We identified a core of upregulated genes (IL4, CD40LG, ICAM2, HLA-I (HLA-A, HLA-C) and HLA-II (HLA-DQA1, HLA-DRB5) in the non-recurrent SCCA tissue enriching to the gene ontology term ‘allograft rejection’, which suggests a CD4+ T cell driven immune response. Conversely, in the recurrent tissues, keratin (KRT1, 10, 12, 20) and hedgehog signaling pathway (PTCH2) genes involved in ‘Epidermis Development,’, were significantly upregulated. We identified miR-4316, that inhibit tumor proliferation and migration by repressing vascular endothelial growth factors, as being upregulated in non-recurrent SCCA. On the contrary, lncRNA-SOX21-AS1, implicated in the progression of many other cancers, was also found to be more common in our recurrent compared to non-recurrent SCCA.Conclusions Our study identified key host factors which may drive the recurrence of SCCA and warrants further studies to understand the mechanism and evaluate their potential use in personalized treatment.Key MessageOur study used RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to identify pivotal factors in coding and non-coding transcripts which differentiate between patients at risk for recurrent anal cancer after treatment. There were 449 differentially expressed genes (390 mRNA, 12 miRNA, 17 lincRNA and 18 snRNA) between 9 non-recurrent and 3 recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of anus (SCCA) tissues. The enrichment of genes related to allograft rejection was observed in the non-recurrent SCCA tissues, while the enrichment of genes related to epidermis development was positively linked with recurrent SCCA tissues.

This review study considers the classification of data on synthesis methods and practically valuable features of glycoluril-based macrocyclic nitrogen-containing compounds as precursors for polymeric compounds. General data about glycoluril and tetra-N-hydroxymethylglycoluril as parental bases for various macrocyclic compounds were considered. Generalized experimental facts about methods for glycoluril direct N-functionalization and its N-hydroxymethyl derivative reactions in macrocycles and polymeric compound synthesis are given.

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common inherited retinal disease (IRD) and is characterized by photoreceptor degeneration and progressive vision loss. We report 4 patients presenting with RP from 3 unrelated families with variants in TBC1D32, which to date has never been associated with an IRD. To validate TBC1D32 as a putative RP causative gene, we combined Xenopus in vivo approaches and human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived (iPSC-derived) retinal models. Our data showed that TBC1D32 was expressed during retinal development and that it played an important role in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) differentiation. Furthermore, we identified a role for TBC1D32 in ciliogenesis of the RPE. We demonstrated elongated ciliary defects that resulted in disrupted apical tight junctions, loss of functionality (delayed retinoid cycling and altered secretion balance), and the onset of an epithelial-mesenchymal transition–like phenotype. Last, our results suggested photoreceptor differentiation defects, including connecting cilium anomalies, that resulted in impaired trafficking to the outer segment in cones and rods in TBC1D32 iPSC-derived retinal organoids. Overall, our data highlight a critical role for TBC1D32 in the retina and demonstrate that TBC1D32 mutations lead to RP. We thus identify TBC1D32 as an IRD-causative gene.

Background. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell tumour, which could be followed by formation of bone plasmacytomas. Bone plasmacytoma is plasma cells proliferate, developed in a medullar cavity, which could destroy cortical layer of a bone and escape to the surrounding tissues. Biological characteristics of tumour substrate hypothetically could influence the clinical course of MM.Aim. To compare clinical and laboratory parameters of newly diagnosed MM depending on the presence or absence of bone plasmacytomas.Materials and methods. A retrospective study included 40 patients with newly diagnosed MM aged from 24 to 63 years. 21 patients are diagnosed with bone plasmacytomas. In another 19 patients MM proceeded without plasmacytomas. As an induction therapy all patients were treated with bortezomib-containing regimens. 10 patients were also received immunomodulatory drugs. 34 patients underwent autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT).Results. When comparing laboratory parameters at the onset of MM, patients with bone plasmacytomas showed minor lesion of bone marrow, higher haemoglobin concentration and low paraprotein secretion. When comparing MM clinical parameters it turned out that the frequency of achieving a significant antitumor response after induction therapy was reliably lower in patients with bone plasmacytomas: 28.6 % versus 68.4 % (p = 0.038). Auto-HSCT made it possible to deepen the antitumor response in group of patients with bone plasmacytomas. On +100 day auto-HSCT significant antitumor response was registered in 52.6 % of patients. For correct assessment of antitumor response the dynamics of plasmacytoma measurements is very important. When using only the data of immunochemical analysis for response assessment, the frequency of achieving a significant antitumor response is overestimated, this is not an adequate reflection of clinical situation.Conclusion. MM with bone plasmacytomas has some clinical and laboratory features. Auto-HSCT is highly efficient method of treatment of this patient cohort. Assessment of antitumor response in patients with bone plasmacytomas only by the data of immunochemical analysis is insufficient and may serve as a reason for choosing the wrong therapeutical tactics.

Currently, cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common oncological diseases. In this regard, it is necessary to develop new research methods for a more detailed study of the occurrence and development of the disease at the molecular and cellular levels, as well as to improve the effectiveness of treatment and form a deeper understanding of the causes of relapses. The aim of this work was to study nanoparticles localized on the erythrocyte membrane—presumably HPV 16, 18, before and after radiation therapy, in patients with cervical cancer (CC). To study the surface of red blood cells by the SEM method, venous blood samples from 17 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CC were prepared in thin layers evenly applied to a dry, fat-free glass slide, which was dried at room temperature. To detect nanoparticles on the surface of erythrocytes by the immunofluorescence analysis, we developed a special protocol for preparing erythrocyte masses from patients diagnosed with CC. As a result of using a new method of sample preparation for immunofluorescence assay and using SEM, the hypothesis of the viral nature of nanoparticles localized on the surface of the blood erythrocytes of patients with CC was confirmed: Particles of HPV 16 and 18 are located on the cytoplasmic membrane of erythrocytes. Studies suggest that viruses attach to the erythrocyte membrane, which seems to influence the development of CC, its recurrence, and metastasis.

The relevance of the work stems from the need to develop requirements for sulfonated bitumen applied in the composition of water-based drilling fluids to control their quality when entering drilling enterprises. Due to the presence of water-insoluble substances, sulfonated bitumens are considered to be hydrophobic bridging agents of clay rocks, though the proportion of water-soluble substances in their composition is much higher (~70 %). Nowadays the influence of the water-soluble component of sulfonated bitumen on clay rock in terms of inhibition and peptization is unknown. There are also no data on salt resistance and resistance to alkaline earth metals (Ca2+, Mg2+) of sulfonated bitumen. All this can lead to their irrational use. The study of these issues will help formulate requirements and select methods for assessing the quality of sulfonated bitumens, as well as improve the efficiency of their use in drilling fluids. The main aim of the research is to experimentally determine the functional properties of sulfonated bitumen in the composition of water-based drilling fluids. The main objectives of the research are to study the sulfonated bitumen effect on clay rocks and access the sulfonated bitumen resistance to mineralization and divalent cations. Objects: sulfonated bitumen samples of various brands and manufacturing plants. Methods. The technological parameters of clay drilling fluids were determined by standard methods in accordance with SS 33213-2014 (ISO 10414-1:2008); the inhibitory and peptization properties of the research objects in relation to clay rocks were studied by the method of clay swelling when they were in the sample solution (on the Zhigach–Yarov tester) and by means of sedimentary analysis (on the Figurovsky weight scale); salt resistance of sulfonated bitumens was determined by the method of sedimentation while placing sulfonated bitumens in a mineralized environment. Results. The authors have carried out the comparative analysis of six sulfonated bitumen samples to identify the physicochemical effect of this group reagents on clay rocks. By assessing the degree of swelling and particle-size determination of clay while its staying in the drilling fluids of the test samples, two groups of reagents of sulfonated bitumen were found, which are opposite in their functional effect on clay: 1) peptizing agents (deflocculants); 2) clay inhibitors. It was experimentally proved that all sulfonated bitumens contribute to the deterioration of the thixotropic, rheological, and filtration properties of fresh clay systems, while samples with inhibitory properties are more effective viscosity reducers; in a mineralized environment, the presence of divalent cations and sulfonated bitumens are conductive to a decrease in filtration properties, but are ineffective as viscosity reducers, and also, they are conductive to thickening due to their coagulation or solubility decrease. Experiments proved that for determining the functional purpose of high-molecular-weight sulfonated bitumens in the composition of water-based drilling fluids and controlling the quality of the samples, it is necessary to test them according to the following indicators: to determine the size of clay particles in water and in a solution of the test sample in order to identify its inhibitory or peptizing properties; to evaluate the thinning capacity and the effectiveness of reducing the filtration characteristics when adding a reagent to a fresh clay suspension.