Azerbaijan State Agricultural University

Wild cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera Ehrh.) is a fruit species of high agronomic, ecological, and economic importance. In this study, the genetic diversity and population structure of 100 wild cherry plum genotypes collected from different geographical regions of Azerbaijan were evaluated using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) molecular markers. Using the 20 ISSR primers employed in the study, a total of 157 loci were amplified, of which 128 (81.9

This study reports the development of a clindamycin-loaded, plant-based niosomal gel for topical acne therapy. A phytocomposition comprising Calendula officinalis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Aloe vera, and Spirulina was optimized based on extraction efficiency, antimicrobial activity, and safety. Using the thin-film hydration method, the extract and clindamycin phosphate were co-encapsulated into niosomes and incorporated into gels based on either Carbopol 940 or Na-CMC. The niosomes exhibited nanoscale particle size (similar to 120 nm), high encapsulation efficiency (similar to 70-75%), and good colloidal stability (zeta potential similar to-30 mV). LC-MS/MS analysis confirmed the presence of phenolics and flavonoids such as rutin, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin. In silico PASS screening predicted strong antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing potential for both clindamycin and phytochemicals. Rheological evaluation showed pseudoplastic, shear-thinning behavior with better structural integrity in the Carbopol-based gel. In vitro release studies demonstrated sustained drug release over 12 h, with slower drug release from the Carbopol formulation (86.1%) than from the Na-CMC formulation (99.0%). Ex vivo permeation through chicken skin revealed enhanced transdermal delivery, with 72.5% cumulative permeation for the Carbopol-based gel. In vivo pharmacological assessment showed good tolerability and no toxicity. The optimized gel reduced inflammation by over 70% within 48 h and significantly accelerated wound healing compared to a commercial comparator. Stability testing confirmed physical and microbiological integrity over 12 months. These findings support the developed phyto-niosomal Carbopol gel as a multifunctional, biocompatible topical system enabling sustained dermal delivery, synergistic anti-acne activity, and improved therapeutic performance.

Multi-stage tube extrusion is a widely used manufacturing process for fabricating precision tubular components. In the current study, St37 tubes were extruded using multi-stage forming dies, consisting of two preforming dies and one final forming die. The die’s final length, friction coefficient, and velocity were selected as input parameters, while thickness distribution, extrusion force, and mean square error (MSE) were considered as outputs. Finite Element Modeling was carried out in ABAQUS/Explicit and integrated with optimization algorithms to improve process performance. To identify the optimal combination of processing parameters, a hybrid machine learning framework combining Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) was employed. The model demonstrated high prediction accuracy with strong agreement between simulated and experimental results. Validation through thickness and force measurements confirmed the model’s robustness. The optimal parameters achieved uniform thickness distribution, reduced extrusion force, and minimized MSE. Confirmatory experiments verified the developed model, showing low errors of approximately 3.19

The object of research in this study is a screw dispenser that dispenses dry, dispersed feed. The problem to be solved is this: when using dispensers of complex design, labor and material costs for their repair and maintenance increase, as well as the efficiency of their use decreases. When using the proposed model of a device for preparing mixed feed with a scattering force, it is possible to determine the following rational design modes and kinematic parameters: rotation speed of the screw of the mixing section ω = 4...12 s⁻1, number of blades 6...8, feed rate or component u = 0.005...0.045 m/s. Using a model of a device for preparing feed for forced mixing using appropriate methods and measurements, the following rational constructive, modal and kinematic parameters were determined: rotation speed of the screw of the mixing section ω = 4–12 s–1; number of blades 6...8 pcs.; feed rate or feed component v = 0.005...0.045 m/s. With the specified values of parameters, heterogeneity or uniformity of the feed mixture, the total required power, respectively, was: δ = 7...11; λ = 93...89%; N = 3.5...4.94 kW. The design features of the metering mixer, the parameters of the constructive mode of operation and practical recommendations for use, justified as a result of the study, are of practical importance for feed mills. The results and optimized values obtained during the dosing of feed material in the preparation of concentrated feed mixtures, in comparison with their continuous operation over time, are of theoretical importance for subject programs, scientific research and experimental design work on the preparation of feed mixtures

In this study, eight mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) breeds imported from Uzbekistan were evaluated under laboratory conditions at the Sheki Regional Scientific Center of ANAS based on five key biological and productivity indicators: survival rate, viability, cocoon weight, feeding period, and silkiness. The results revealed significant differences among the breeds, with the highest productivity observed in the Marvarid and Markhamat breeds. Correlation analysis demonstrated positive and statistically significant relationships between survival rate and viability (r = 0.788; p < 0.05), cocoon weight (r = 0.824; p < 0.05), and silkiness (r = 0.941; p < 0.01). In contrast, negative correlations were identified between feeding period and survival rate (r = −0.775; p < 0.05), as well as silkiness (r = −0.881; p < 0.01). Overall, the survival rate showed a strong positive association with cocoon weight and silkiness, and a negative association with the feeding period. These findings indicate that cocoon weight and silkiness are key productivity indicators, whereas a A prolonged feeding period adversely affects productivity. Therefore, the Marvarid and Markhamat breeds are recommended as priority candidates for selection and breeding programs. Keywords: mulberry silkworm, breed, hybrid, wet cocoon, silk, correlation