bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASSOCIATION OF THE ALLELIC STATE OF THE GNB3 (RS5443) AND AGT (RS4762) GENES WITH ANTHROPOMETRIC, ME TABOLIC- HORMONAL PARAMETERS AND INDICATORS OF MINERAL METABOLISM IN PATIENTS WITH ESSENTIAL ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION
Authors: Voroniuk К.О. , Sydorchuk L.P.
Published: March 2023

The аim of research – to analyze the dependence of changes in metabolic- hormonalparameters and indicators of mineral metabolism depending on the allelic state of theAGT (rs4762) and GNB3 genes in patients with essential arterial hypertension (EAH).Material and methods. The case-control study involved 100 patients with EAH stageII, 1-3 degrees of blood pressure (BP), high and very high cardiovascular risk. Amongthe patients there were 21% (21) men, 79% (79) women. The mean age of patients was59.86±6.22y.o. The control group consisted of 60 almost healthy individuals, relevantin age (49.13±6.28y.o.) and gender distribution (63% – women, 37% – men). To studyAGT (rs4762) and GNB3 (rs5443) genes polymorphism a qualitative polymerasechain reaction (PCR) was performed in real time. The lipid panel parameters, such as:Total cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (ТG), Low-density and High-density lipoproteincholesterol (LDL-C, HDL-C) were investigated in the blood plasma, using diagnostickits «Accent 200» (Poland). The atherogenic index (AI) was calculated by the equation:(TC – HDL-C)/ HDL-C. All recruited subjects were tested for serum levels of fastingglucose, ionized calcium, parathyroid (PTH) hormone, 25-hydroxyvitamin D.Results. The activity of certain metabolic processes is associated with the allelic state of theAGT (rs4762) and GNB3 (rs5443) genes in patients with EAH: carriers of the T-allele ofthe AGT gene (rs4762) have a glucose level 27.36% higher than that of owners of the CCgenotype (Р СС = 0.032), while KA, on the contrary, is lower 14.41% (Р СС =0.047) witha probable difference in women – 14.90% (Р СС =0.046); the presence of the TT-genotype ofthe GNB3 gene (rs5443) in patients with EAH is associated with hypercholesterolemia: thecontent of cholesterol probably exceeds that of homozygous owners of the wild C-allele 13.95%(Р СС =0.037). Hormonal- messenger indicators of the regulation of mineral metabolismdo not depend on the allelic state of the GNB3 gene (rs5443), while in the owners of theT-allele of the AGT gene (rs4762) a lower level of total metabolites of vitamin D in the blood(at the " deficiency" level) was established – 14, 97% (Р СС =0.002), againsta background of a compensatory increase in PTH concentration – 29.18% (Р СС =0.025).Conclusions.The mutated T-allele of the AGT gene (rs4762) is associated with hyperglycemia,hypovitaminosis D and a compensatory increase in PTH, and the TT-genotype of the GNB3gene (rs5443) is associated with hypercholesterolemia in patients with EAH.
CLINICAL EVIDENCE OF THE FEASIBILITY OF COLCHICINE USE IN PATIENTS WITH ATHEROSCLEROTIC CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES (LITERATURE REVIEW)
Authors: Tashchuk V.K. , Bota R.A.
Published: March 2023

Objective – to analyze the world literature data concerning the influence mechanisms ofanti-inflammatory therapy with colchicine on the prognosis of patients with atheroscleroticcardiovascular diseases (ASCVD) with an assessment of the conducted search inthe bibliographic databases MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, ClinicalTrials, includingstudies published until September 2022 by keywords «colchicine», «inflammation»,«atherosclerosis», «biomarkers», «coronary artery disease», «acute coronary syndrome».Conclusion. Modern studies have shown that colchicine as an anti-inflammatory drugbecomes a valuable, safe and cost-effective means in the secondary prevention of ASCVD.
SIGNIFICANCE OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE MECHANISM OF IMPROVING THE EDUCATION QUALITY OF FUTURE MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS AS ILLUSTRATED BY TEACHING THE DISCIPLINE «PATHOMORPHOLOGY»
Authors: Ilika V.V. , Ilika O.V.
Published: March 2023

The process of creation, introduction and spreading of new ideas, tools, pedagogicaland managerial technologies in educational practice will facilitate the transitionof the education system to a qualitatively different state, which increases the indices(levels) of achievements of education structural components.The objective of the study – to substantiate the importance of innovation in the mechanismof improving the education quality of students as illustrated by the experience of teachingthe discipline «Pathomorphology» for future medical professionals.Conclusions. The identified ways of influencing innovative technologies and teachingmethods on the use of innovations in the educational process will improve the qualityof students’ education by intensifying their research work, developing skills of selfacquisition, training of independent personality capable of self-education and selfdevelopment, stimulation of figurative, associative, logical thinking. Systematicapplication of innovations not only helps to increase the professional competenceof a student, but also lays down special demands to the teacher, leads to his professionalgrowth, because it stimulates his activity in achieving professional acme. All this makesthe teaching- learning process interesting and effective.
Дятли родини Picidae прирічкових заплавних лісів та дібров долини р. Уж у Закарпатській області
Authors: Станкевич-Волосянчук Оксана
Published: March 2023

Дослідження дятлів родини Picidae у дібровах та прирічкових заплавних лісах долини р. Уж у Закарпатській області України проводили у 1994-99 та 2016-20 роках. Результати досліджень свідчать, що статус та поширення деяких видів дятлів істотно змінився за останнє століття. Два види – дятел білоспинний (Dendrocopos leucotos Bechstein, 1802) та жовна зелена (Picus viridis Linnaeus, 1758), які ще на початку ХХ ст. були звичайними та численними видами лісів долини р. Уж, сьогодні занесені до Червоної книги України. Рідкісними також стали дятел малий (Dendrocopos minor Linnaeus, 1758) та крутиголовка (Jynx torquilla Linnaeus, 1758). Натомість жовна чорна (Dryocopus martius Linnaeus, 1758), яка на початку ХХ ст. траплялася переважно у хвойних лісах, а у передгірних та рівнинних листяних лісах Закарпаття лише зимувала. Нині цей вид трапляється у передгірських букових лісах та дібровах долини р. Уж цілорічно. Новим видом для орнітофауни Закарпаття став дятел сирійський (Dendrocopos syriacus Hemprich et Ehrenberg, 1833). Цей середземноморський вид проник в Карпати з Балкан на початку 50-х років минулого століття й заселив трансформовані ландшафти – агроценози та населені пункти. У природних лісах він практично не трапляється, заходів з охорони не потребує. Незмінним залишився статус лише трьох видів дятлів – дятла звичайного (Dendrocopos major Linnaeus, 1758), дятла середнього (Dendrocopos medius Linnaeus, 1758) та жовни сивої (Picus canus Gmelin, 1788). Цим видам нічого не загрожує: вони досить пластичні у виборі середовища існування і трапляються, як у природних лісах, так і в садах, парках, скверах населених пунктів. Більшість інших видів дятлових очевидно є залежними від наявності старих лісів та мертвої деревини у них,однак це питання потребує додаткових подальших досліджень.
До питання вивчення фауни твердокрилих родини Nitidulidae (Insecta: Coleoptera) Закарпаття
Authors: Гусар Михайло
Published: March 2023

В роботі подано аналіз літературних джерел та власних даних щодо поширення на території Закарпатської області твердокрилих родини Nitidulidae. В результаті досліджень встановлено наявність у складі ентомофауни Закарпатської області 41 вид жуків-блистянок, що належать до 13 родів. Найбільша кількість видів характерна для родів Epuraea (17 видів) та Meligethes (8 видів). Наведено інформацію про характерні біотопи та екологічні преференції видів, а також терміни активності імаго.
Вплив альтернативних поживних речовин на параметри якості ґрунту
Authors: Чобоі Йудіт , Браун Бенче , Тарек Мохамед , Іріньіней Олаг Каталін
Published: March 2023

Одна з основних вимог сталого сільського господарства полгає в тому, щоб регуляціївмісту поживних речовин у ґрунті здійснювалася таким чином, щоб ґрунт не збіднювався на поживні речовини.Також необхідно підтримувати або навіть збільшувати показники родючості ґрунту, покращувати йогофізико-хімічні властивості, сприяти збереженню біорізноманіття мешканців ґрунтового середовища.Вищезазначених цілей можна досягти шляхом зменшення або заміни добрив, які надмірно використовуються вінтенсивному землеробстві. Органічні добрива та інші органічні добрива (курячий послід, компост), зеленідобрива та різні природні мінерали (цеоліт, ріолітовий туф, альгініт) також можна використовувати длязабезпечення рослини поживними речовинами і для отримання економічного вигідного врожаю. У нашихпопередніх експериментах ми намагалися відповісти на питання щодо того, як ріоліт, як природна речовина,яка покращує утримання води у ґрунті, високоорганічний гранульований пташиний послід і флокулянт, якпобічний продукт харчової промисловості, впливають на темпи розвитку рослин перцю чилі (Irinyiné Oláh et al.2019; Csabai et al. 2020). В даній роботі представлені результати експериментальних досліджень щодо того,як ті ж самі речовини впливають на різні параметри якості ґрунту. Виходячи з отриманих результів, можнастверджувати, що внесені добрива ущільнили піщаний ґрунт на ділянці, а отже, покращили його фізичнівластивості. Найбільшого ефекту за цим параметром досяг флокулянт. При цьому рівень рН ґрунтузнижувався всіма трьома агентами, а найбільш сильно пташиним послідом. Усі три типии добрив позитивновплинули на вміст гумусу.
Ефект гетерозису у тютюну та способи його закріплення
Authors: Глюдзик-Шемот Маргарита , Савіна Олена , Шейдик Кароліна
Published: March 2023

У роботі розглянуто питання детальної оцінки колекційного матеріалу тютюну із застосуванням кластерного аналізу та подальше виділення вихідних форм при діалельному схрещуванні з метою одержання гібридів з високим ефектом гетерозису. Ступінь домінантності та ефект гетерозису у гібридів F1 обумовлені генотиповим різноманіттям вихідних компонентів схрещування, а також є результатом взаємодії генотипу з умовами зовнішнього середовища. Виділено кращі гібридні комбінації за ознаками: висота рослин - до 231 см; кількості листя на стеблі – 30,1 шт; ширини листя – 40,9 см; довжини листя – 68,1 см, які проявили позитивне наддомінування і становлять практичний інтерес для закріплення гетерозису через апоміксис та подальшого випробування у конкурсному розсаднику.
Морфологія яйцекладів і сперматеків представників триби Dexiini (Diptera, Tachinidae) фауни України
Authors: Фаринець Степан
Published: March 2023

Робота присвячена вивченню геніталій триби Dexiini та личинок 1-го віку. Проведено дослідження морфології склеротизованих структур постабдомену самок, сперматеків, личинок першого віку представників триби Dexiini. Метою роботи є оцінити можливість використання морфології цих структур у систематиці. На сонові отрманих результатів можна зробити висновок щодо цінності цих ознак для встановлення систематичної належності. Дослідження змін статевої структури самок Dexiini проводили на матеріалі, який охоплює 11 видів з 7 родів. Результати вивчення морфологічних ознак постабдоменальних, сперматекових та личинок першого віку дозволяють обґрунтовано інтерпретувати диференціацію таксонів родового рівня. В роботі наведено таблиці для визначення видів триби Dexiini.
Electrooxidación de ácido fórmico catalizada por nanopartículas Cu-Pd obtenidas a partir de un disolvente eutéctico profundo
Authors:   , Maldonado Teodocio Beatriz
Published: March 2023

En el presente Proyecto de Investigación se estudió la electrodeposición de cobre, paladio y cobre-paladio sobre carbono vítreo mediante métodos electroquímicos, usando los disolventes eutécticos profundos (DES), formados por cloruro de colina (ChCl), combinado con un donador de puentes de hidrógeno, urea, en proporciones molares 1:2 a 70 °C. El proceso de electrodeposición se estudió a partir de soluciones Cu(II) y Pd(II); para todas las soluciones, se utilizó la voltamperometría cíclica para establecer el intervalo de potencial donde ocurre la reducción de las especies electroactivas de Cu(II) y Pd(II). La técnica potenciostática fue empleada para realizar el electrodepósito con control del potencial aplicado y estudiar el mecanismo de nucleación y crecimiento de cúmulos metálicos. Por último, se estudió la aplicación de los electrodepósitos mono y bi-metálico, en la reacción de oxidación de ácido fórmico (FAOR) empleando técnicas potenciodinámicas y potenciostáticas para conocer los potenciales de oxidación y la actividad másica de cada uno de los electrodepósitos.
Influencia de la convección forzada sobre la cinética de electrodeposición de Fe, Co, y Fe-Co en el disolvente eutéctico profundo Cloruro de Colina-Urea
Authors:   , Suárez Barajas Javier Alexander
Published: March 2023

The current research was focused on the mechanism and kinetics of Cobalt, Iron, and their alloy: cobalt ferrite electrodeposition from its dissolved ions in a eutectic mixture called Reline (formed by choline chloride and urea), an ionic liquid non-toxic and biodegradable, varying the hydrodynamic conditions, which had not been reported previously from non-aqueous solvents. This kind of alloy has been widely studied, mainly for its hard-magnetic properties that have improved very large amounts of components like information storage systems. Reline is part of the ionic liquids known as deep eutectic solvents (DES) with low vapor pressure, a wide potential range, a high electrical and thermal conductivity, lower cost, and greater stability. Cobalt, Iron, and cobalt ferrite nanoparticles, CoFeNPs, were electrodeposited onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE), from a DES formed by choline chloride and urea (Reline) in a 1:2 molar ratio containing 50 mM cobalt chloride, CoCl2, and 50 mM iron chloride, FeCl3, at 70 °C. Cyclic voltammetry was used to study the convection effect on the electrodeposition from DES and ascertain the electrodeposition potential range of redox reactions. The chronoamperometric results led to determining the mechanism involved during these electrochemical phase formation processes and the kinetic parameters, such as: the number density of active sites (N0), nucleation rate (A), water reduction constant rate (kwr) and diffusion layer thickness (δ), as a function of the electrode angular speed and electrodeposition potential. These kinetic parameters were obtained from non-linear to the experimental potentiostatic current transients using the Hyde and Compton theoretical equation [1] for Co, Fe and Co-Fe systems under forced convection. The alloyed Fe-Co electrodeposits without agitation were analyzed by the model of Díaz-Morales et al. [2]. On the other hand, the Fe and Co deposits were studied with Heerman and Tarallo model [3]; complemented with M. Palomar – Pardavé et al. model [4] for concomitant reactions. The dominant mechanism of the electrodeposition processes for the three systems was the multiple nucleation with diffusion-limited 3D growth It was found that A increased with the applied potential and that the diffusion layer thickness increased with decreasing angular speed. Water reduction was recognized as concomitant processes in the systems without agitation for the highest applied potentials which were catalyzed mainly by Co deposits. The electrodeposits were characterized by X-rays Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX) - Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS) revealed the presence of Co-Fe oxides with spherical morphology, cobalt hydroxide, and metallic cobalt.
Effect of Saffron Extract, Astaxanthin, and Carnosic Acid on the Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and on Body Weight Changes in Arthritis Experiments
Authors: Chrastina M , Póništ S , Dráfi F , Švík K , Khademnematolahi S , Pružinská K , Tchorbanov A , Bauerová K
Published: March 2023

AIM

The aim of this study was to explore the potential effect of natural compounds and their combination with methotrexate (M) on levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) as a key biochemical parameter in rat adjuvant arthritis. Further change of body weight was selected as one of clinical parameters monitored in this animal model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adjuvant arthritis (AA) was induced in Lewis rats. Methotrexate (M) was administrated twice a week in a dose of 0.3 mg/kg b.w. The saffron extract was administrated daily in two doses: 25 mg/kg b.w. (SF1) and 50 mg/kg b.w. (SF2). Both doses were administrated alone and in combination with M. Astaxanthin was administrated also daily in two doses: 1 mg/kg b.w. (AS1) and 5 mg/kg b.w. (AS2) only as monotherapy. Carnosic acid was administrated daily in one dose: 100 mg/kg (C) in monotherapy and in combination with M. All compounds and M were administrated orally. Plasma samples were collected on the 21st experimental day and used for ELISA determination. The 21st experimental day was used also for the analysis of body weight changes.

RESULTS

We observed a significant decrease of MMP-9 plasmatic levels in SF1 and SF2 monotherapy in AA animal groups. The decrease in levels of MMP-9 in combined therapy of SF1 and M had higher significance than the effect of M only in AA. The same decreasing effect on the levels of MMP-9 was observed in the combined therapy of C and M. Astaxanthin and saffron extract had a very similar effect on clinical parameters and the change in body weight: both have significantly increased body weight in monotherapy in both doses used. The combined therapy of M and saffron extract doses showed no significant difference from M itself. Carnosic acid did not affect the change of body weight, and the combination of C with M reached the same level as M alone.

CONCLUSION

Astaxanthin in monotherapy and saffron extract in monotherapy and in combined therapy with M have significantly decreased plasmatic levels of MMP-9 and increased body weight in animals suffering from AA. Lower doses were more efficient for both experiments: astaxanthin and saffron extract. Carnosic acid has no effect in monotherapy in both parameters, but a combination with M has a significant effect with respect to the improvement of cachexia as well as the inhibition of inflammation.
Impact of Clothing Size on Thermal Insulation – A Pilot Study
Authors: Młynarczyk Magdalena , Orysiak Joanna , Jankowski Jarosław , Prus Piotr
Published: March 2023

Thermal insulation may be influenced by the size of clothing and thus the volume of air gaps. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the size of outer wear clothing, and thus the indirect fit (the volume and size of air gaps), and thermal insulation in static and dynamic conditions. A set of underwear and two types of outerwear for workers of the energy sector and the chemical industry were selected for the study. Results showed that the value of thermal insulation (regardless of the type of outerwear) first increased with increasing clothing size.
Social entrepreneurship education enhancement through innovative training pedagogies across Europe
Authors: Loukopoulos Argyrios , Taylor Marie , Sotiropoulou Aikaterini , Erzetic Barbara Hvalic , Mikolič Sara , Slavič Irma Potočnik , Manti Arianna
Published: March 2023

Social Enterprises (SEs) have become the focus of increased policy attention internationally and at the EU level in recent years. Not as much attention, however, has been given to identifying and eliminating their skills gaps and training needs. Following the principles of the Training Needs Analysis (TNA) methodology and collecting data from different stakeholders on the social entrepreneurship sector of four EU countries (Italy, Ireland, Greece, and Slovenia) participating in the EU project ‘SocialB’, this paper examines the development of its training content, and how this addresses the SEs’ training challenges regarding management, sustainability and growth issues. This paper outlines the steps this project followed in tackling these issues through developing innovative learning content and training delivery methodology.
Performance optimisation of the turning process along with multi-surface heating process
Authors: Sathish Kumar D , Thanigaivelan R , Natarajan N
Published: March 2023

Materials that are difficult to cut possess excellent qualities and machinability, though conventional machining techniques require additional energy to circumvent the problems associated with the turning process. In this study, heat-assisted turning of duplex stainless steel (SS) was carried out. Various heating techniques such as infrared (IR)-, ultraviolet (UV)- and hot air (HA)-assisted heating were adopted. The experiment used an L16orthogonal array with the most significant parameters such as heating method, feed rate in millimetres per revolution (mm/rev), depth of cut (millimetres [mm]) and cutting speed (metres per minute [m/min])on the cutting force and surface roughness. The technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and grey relational analysis (GRA), were used to optimise the output performance. The results of TOPSIS showed that the 16th experimental combination, i.e., the HA heating method, with feed rate = 0.175 mm/rev, depth of cut = 0.1 mm and cutting speed = 150 m/min, required a smaller cutting force and resulted in lower surface roughness. In case of the GRA method, the best output performance was observed for the 15th experimental combination, that is, the HA heating method, with feed rate = 0.15 mm/rev, depth of cut = 0.2 mm and cutting speed = 200 m/min. Compared to the non–heat-assisted turning process, the HA- and UV-assisted processes required 10.25% and 7.69% lesser cutting force, respectively, and the surface roughness in case of the HA method was 15.13% lesser.
Study on the Optimization of Design Speeds Required by the Need to Reduce Traffic Pollution
Authors: Ildiko Gergely Marta , Ciocan Remus , Dragomir Mihai Liviu
Published: March 2023

Pollution is closely related to traffic characteristics (vehicle fleet, its composition in terms of motorization, park maintenance level, etc.), existing road infrastructure (depending on the classification of public roads into technical classes, the level of service) and last but not least, the speed of traffic on the public road network (depending on the designed geometric elements, local context, geographical position and climate). Determining optimal traffic speeds in order to reduce pollution is a highly debated topic for all categories of public roads, including highways, which by definition are designed and executed with distinct geometric elements to ensure high-speed road traffic. When adopting the geometric elements, the design speed adopted in accordance with the legislation in force, plays an essential and decisive role both in the design of new roads and in the rehabilitation of existing ones.

The comparative study of the maximum design speeds (imposed by regulations) with the optimal ones in terms of reducing air pollution (recommended by specialized studies), can provide new perspectives from the point of view of all traffic participants by correlating the optimal average speeds with the designed geometric elements.
The Use of Selected Carbonized Agricultural Waste as a Low Cost Scrubber in Air Pollution Control
Authors: Oloriegbe Tunde , Okofu C.A , Ibrahim F.B
Published: March 2023

The production of activated carbon from agricultural waste is one of the mostenvironmental friendly solutions of transforming less valuable into more valuable materials and it is also a way of converting waste to wealth. Rice husks, maize cobs and coconut shells were individually used to prepare activated carbon under the same experimental conditions of 500OC carbonization temperature, impregnation ratio of 10:1 under 1hr activation time using chemical activation method with zncl2 as the activation agent. After being subjected to carbonization and chemical activation, the farm residues were examined for their surface areas, PHs, conductivities, specific gravities, bulk densities and moisture contents. Elemental composition of each of the waste at carbonized stage, when chemically activated, when used to trap air pollutants and when reactivated were also determined. The adsorptive capacities of these activated carbons were investigated and compared by loading each of them in an adsorption column of 1.5m tall, 0.98m diameter with four openings at height 0m (input), 0.5m, 1.0m, 1.5m (output). A 0.85kva generator was connected to the column and the concentrations of some selected primary pollutants (HC, CO, CO2 NOX) were determined at the input was analyzed and compared to the concentrations at different heights in the column, as the fumes passed through. Optimization studies were also carried out to investigate the adsorptive efficacies of blends of the activated carbons, at different ratios and proportions. When the three activated carbons were mixed at same ratio and proportion, the adsorptive capacity was found to be less than when compared to the efficiencies of the individual activated carbons. Activated carbon produced from coconut shells was experimentally found to have the highest adsorptive capacity followed by that produced from maize cobs and rice husks. The adsorptive capacity was experimentally found to be dependent on adsorbate dosage, contact time and concentration of the adsorbate. CO and CO2 were found to be easily absorbed by all the three activated carbons. Some recommendations have been made.
Life E-VIA: Prototypal Low-Noise Road Surface for the Reduction of Electric Vehicle Rolling Noise in Urban Area
Authors: Pallas Marie-Agnès , Cesbron Julien , Bianchetti Simon , Klein Philippe , Cerezo Véronique , Augris Pierre , Ropert Christophe , Praticò Filippo G. , Bianco Francesco
Published: March 2023

In both the current and foreseen context of significant development of the electric vehicle (EV) fleet, a future increasing ratio of EVs in the urban traffic is expected, still enhanced in low-emission zones involving bans or restricted access to other vehicles. EVs are known to be quieter than conventional vehicles at low speed because of a low motor noise emission, resulting in a higher prevalence of rolling noise in the environmental noise. EVs differ from conventional vehicles in several parameters that can influence tyre/road noise, like weight and torque. The LIFE E-VIA project objectives consist in developing, implementing and assessing a low-noise road surface for light EV traffic in urban conditions, optimised from an acoustical and life cycle perspective. In parallel, an optimisation of EV tyres is investigated.

Prior to forthcoming layout in Florence (Italy) for assessment under real traffic conditions, a prototypal road surface has been implemented and evaluated on a test track in Nantes (France). Preliminary tests carried out with different EVs on several road surfaces highlighted the variability of noise emission over vehicle types and pavements, leading to specific ranking. Two prototype versions of a low-noise road surface have been laid out in Nantes, respectively without and with crumb rubber. Both of them have been acoustically assessed with on-board microphones (CPX method) and at roadside (CPB method and microphone array). Constant speed, acceleration and deceleration conditions were considered for pass-by tests. Other acoustical or physical parameters have been measured: acoustic absorption, 3D-texture, mechanical impedance and skid resistance properties (BPN and MPD). In comparison with a reference DAC 0/10 road surface, very usual in France, a roadside noise reduction up to 4 dB(A) was found at steady pass-by speed 50 km/h. Grip values are very high and macrotexture levels moderate. Lastly, mixtures durability is analysed with laboratory tests.
Working for World Peace: Between Idealism and Cynicism in International Organizations
Authors: Christian Ben
Published: March 2023

In International Organizations (IOs), noble ideals often clash with harsh realities on the ground. It should therefore come as no surprise if IO employees become cynical over time. However, while there is a large body of work on “organizational cynicism” in sociology and management studies, a systematic examination of cynicism is lacking in IO research. The article addresses this gap and explores the causes and consequences of cynicism among IO staff based on insights gained in 50+ in-depth interviews with staff members at the UN Secretariat from 2020 to 2022.
The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Perceived Employment (In)Security in Switzerland
Authors: Edler Susanne , Staub Ivo
Published: March 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic and the way this health crisis has been handled has changed labour market inequalities. We argue that workers are affected differently by changed work and employment conditions, depending on the workers’ employment relations and study the impact of remote work, polarization of the core, and peripheral workforce as well as changes in working time during the Covid-19 pandemic on perceived employment insecurity. Based on data from the Swiss Household Panel and its special wave (“Covid-19 Study”), our results show that the perceived employment insecurity is related to employment strategies aimed at increasing flexibility in the labour market. In particular, short-time work increased perceived employment insecurity.
Autonomous Cargo Bike Fleets – Approaches for AI-Based Trajectory Forecasts of Road Users
Authors: Sass Stefan , Höfer Markus , Schmidt Michael , Schmidt Stephan
Published: March 2023

Automated cargo bikes are intended to complement public transportation in a sharing concept and provide an alternative transportation option for people and goods. In highly automated driving without a seated user, real-time trajectory prediction of other road users is crucial for collision avoidance with other motor vehicles or vulnerable road users (VRU). For this purpose, moving obstacles are detected by environmental sensors and classified and tracked using object detection and tracking algorithms. The current and past position data as well as environmental information are used to predict future positions. In this paper, we present several AI-based trajectory prediction models that are specifically suited for this use case. Our focus is not only on the accuracy of trajectory prediction, but additionally on a robust, real-time and practical application. We consider models that can predict the trajectories with position estimation or distributions for position estimation for each time step in the future. For this aim, we present generative network structures based on Conditional Variational Autoencoder (CVAE) in different variants. After training, the models are integrated into our production system and their computation time is determined on the hardware we use.
Fast Timeline Based Multi Object Online Tracking
Authors: Hünermund Martin , Groneberg Maik , Brauckmann Nils
Published: March 2023

Fast state-of-the-art multi-object-tracking (MOT) schemes, such as reported in challenges MOT16 and Mot20, perform tracking on a single sensor, often couple tracking and detection, support only one kind of object representation or don’t take varying latencies and update rates into account.

We propose a fast generic MOT system for use in real world applications which is capable of tracking objects from different sensor / detector types with their respective latencies and update rates. An SORT inspired online tracking scheme is extended by time awareness using timelines as unifying concept. The system supports different object, sensor and filter and tracking types by modularizing and generalizing the online tracking scheme, while ensuring high performance using an efficient data-oriented C++-template-based implementation.

Using the proposed system we achieve, with comparable evaluation metrics, framerates up to ten times higher than the fastest MOT schemes publicly listed for the axis-aligned bounding-box tracking challenges MOT17 and MOT20.
What impacts the value of revenues from taxation of income of corporations? Evidence from European Union Member States
Authors: Karpowicz Andrzej
Published: March 2023

Fiscal revenues from taxation of income of corporations are more volatile than those earned from any other mayor tax. COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine pose additional threats to government inflows from this source, especially jeopardizing several EU Member States and Eurozone countries struggling with piling public debts, but at the same time maintaining common monetary policy. Therefore, there is a need for better management of revenues from corporate income tax in periods going forward. The aim of this study is to explain the impact of the level of budget inflows from taxation of income of corporations. It turns out that countries are indeed able to influence revenues from this tax by shaping the statutory tax rates. However, most determinants cannot be influenced directly by governments – such as GDP, level of globalization, R&D expenditures, total employment, age dependency ratio, or public debt. Although some of these phenomena are out of control in the short term, states may consider affecting their levels through appropriate economic policy led in the long run. This study is performed for panel data encompassing 16 potential determinants of corporate income tax revenues for all EU Member States from 1995 to 2020, which is the longest period ever considered for such a set of countries that concurrently includes first aftermaths posed to the economy by COVID-19.
Perancangan Sistem Manajemen Keselamatan dan Kesehatan Kerja Pada Laboratorium Desain Produk dan Inovasi
Authors: Telaumbanua Murni , Marbun Chrisdio , Siboro Benedikta Anna Haulian
Published: March 2023

Dalam menjalankan fungsinya sebagai tempat pembelajaran mahasiswa terkait desain produk, maka perancangan sistem manajemen kesehatan dan keselamatan kerja di Laboratorium Desain Produkdan Inovasi (Lab Desprin) menjadi bagian penting agar proses pembelajaran dapat berjalan lancar dan terhindar dari potensi bahaya dan resiko. Implementasi metode HIRARC (Hazard Identification, Risk Asessment, and Risk Control) pada penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui potensi bahaya dan risiko pada beberapa fasilitas di Lab Desprin. Pada aktivitas penggunaan meja dan kursi komputer terdapat potensi dan meja dan kursi tutorial terdapat potensi ergonomi sebanyak 28 potensi risiko, 1 potensi risiko bahaya fisik, 1 potensi risiko bahaya mekanik, dan 2 potensi risiko bahaya listrik. Pada aktivitas penggunaan 3D printer terdapat 2 potensi risiko bahaya fisik, 1 potensi risiko bahaya kimia, dan 3 potensi risiko bahaya listrik. Pada aktivitas penggunaan acetone terdapat 4 potensi bahaya kimia. Sementara penggunaan ruangan kedap suara dan karpet pada lantai laboratorium terdapat potensi bahaya biologi masing-masing 2 potensi risiko.
Usulan Redesign Fasilitas Kerja untuk Meminimalisasi Musculosceletal Disorders (MSDs) dengan Pendekatan Ergonomi
Authors: Nasution Nurjamilah , Andriani Meri , Irawan Heri
Published: March 2023

PT. Bumi Sama Ganda merupakan perusahaan manufaktur dibidang pengolahan kelapa sawit menajdi CPO (Crude Palm Oil). Masalah yang dihadapi yaitu operator mengalami keluhan pada otot skeletal yang disebut dengan keluhan Musculosceletal Disorders (MSDs). Tujuan penelitian adalah mengidentifikasi keluhan operator produksi. Metode penelitian adalah Standard Nordic Questionnaire (SNQ) yang digunakan untuk mengidentifikasi keluhan operator produksi. Hasil dan Pembahasan, Persentasi keluhan operator produksi adalah keluhan pada pinggang (100%), kaki kiri (62,5%), kaki kanan (62,5%), punggung (50%), lengan atas kanan (50%), siku kiri (50%), siku kanan (50%), leher (37,5%), lengan atas kiri (37,5%), tangan kiri (25%), tangan kanan (25%), lutut kiri (25%), lutut kanan (25%), tengkuk (12,5%), bahu kiri (12,5%), pinggul (12,5%), pergelangan tangan kiri (12,5%), pergelangan tangan kanan (12,5%), betis kiri (12,5%) dan betis kanan (12,5%). Keluhan operator stasiun sortasi terdapat 20 titik keluhan dengan persentase tertinggi adalah pada otot skeletal pinggang.
Econometric estimation of the cost of implementing the science-intensive projects based on efficient markets data
Authors: LUKASH Evgenii N. , MAL'TSEV Aleksandr S.
Published: March 2023

Subject. The article investigates cost drivers of research and development, analyzes key indicators of R&D costs characterizing the technical and operational perfection of science-intensive products, using the case of civilian and multipurpose helicopters.
Objectives. The aim is to develop an econometric model of dependence of R&D costs on basic performance specifications of the helicopter to decide whether R&D should be undertaken.
Methods. The study rests on the theory of fundamental value of assets, econometric methods of data analysis, the time value of money, and also on the theory of purchasing power parity, and unbiased expectations theory of interest rates.
Results. The paper unveils the main sources of R&D cost growth for new-generation products in the science-intensive industries. Based on the econometric analysis, we highlight the main determinants of R&D costs, i.e. flight and technical characteristics of the helicopter, which determine the operational efficiency of design and technological decisions taken. We constructed a model to obtain the predictive estimate of R&D cost for Russian helicopters costs.
Conclusions. The statistics on R&D costs of Russian civil helicopters does not sufficiently reflect their fair (market) value. Efficient markets are sources of more objective data on R&D costs of science-intensive products. When modeling the market value of R&D for Russian helicopters, it is advisable to rely on the Western markets data, with recalculation of development costs according to the economic conditions of the Russian aviation market. The analog method enables to quickly obtain a preliminary estimate of R&D costs.
Technological transformation of debt securities markets and its effects
Authors: KRINICHANSKII Konstantin V.
Published: March 2023

Subject. This article examines the impact of electronification on the economy and business model of broker-dealer companies and the structure of the debt securities market.
Objectives. Based on the analysis of the process of electronification of debt securities markets observed over the past 20 years, the article aims to identify the effects of the consequences of this process in relation to the key players of these markets, as well as assess what trends and factors influence the markets’ structure change.
Methods. For the study, I used elements of the systems approach, comparative intermarket analysis, and the impact analysis of the technological component of economic development at the micro level.
Results. The article reveals the main features of the electronification of the debt securities market and the factors of electronic trading spreading in the sector of fixed income instruments, as well as it identifies threats related to the change in the structure of the analyzed market, consisting in the growth of the proportion and impact of high-frequency trading.
Relevance. The results can be used by the Bank of Russia in strategizing the debt securities market’s development to ensure technological leadership.
Problems of methodological support in the bank risk management
Authors: KOZUBEKOVA Ruslana R.
Published: March 2023

Subject. The methodological base of credit institutions adapted to the digital banking system conditions positively affects the modern bank risk management. It contributes to the improvement of risk assessment methods and interaction of subjects of bank risk management according to the specifics of business processes and innovative technologies being introduced.
Objectives. The study aims to analyze the key factors affecting the methodological integrity of banks, explore the organization of the risk management system in Russian and Kyrgyz banks, investigate the current risks faced by credit institutions through methods for identifying the problems of their methodological support.
Methods. The study rests on general scientific methods, like analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction, and generalization.
Results. I established the importance and necessity of developing a high-quality theoretical platform by commercial banks, offered my own formulation of innovation risks, i.e. the risk of duplication of risk management function and the risk of using outdated legislative documents. The paper highlights practical methods of identifying problems while ensuring methodological integrity used by banks in the innovation risk management framework.
Conclusions. The findings may help enhance the risk management system in credit institutions. If applied, the considered methods will improve the work of departments involved in local regulatory framework updating, risk management and internal control services. In the process of managing modern bank risks, the integration of the methodological base into strategic planning structure, effective distribution of functional responsibilities of departments, and organization of the rule-making process play a significant role.
Haematological Profile and Oxidative Stress Indices of Broiler Chickens Infected with Eimeria tenella and Treated with the Methanolic Extract of Vernonia amygdalina Leaf and Its Fractions
Authors: B. Biallah, M. , A Lawal, . I. , A. Abdu, P. , O. Okubanjo, O. , A. Dogo, G. , D. Kaze, P.
Published: March 2023

Eimeria tenella infection in broiler chickens is associated with haemorrhagic typhlitis and anemia. The study aimed to evaluate the haematological parameters and oxidative stress profile of caecal coccidiosis in broiler chickens infected with E. tenella following the administration of the methanolic leaf extract of Vernonia amygdalina and its fractions. To evaluate the parameters, 210 broiler chickens were divided into seven groups with two replicates (n=15). The experimental groups were negative control (NC), positive control (PC), standard amprolium control (SC), crude methanol extract (ME), hexane fraction (HF), butanol fraction (BF), and aqueous residue fraction (AF). All birds were infected with 105 sporulated oocysts of E. tenella except those in the NC group and treated accordingly. The haematological parameters and oxidative stress markers were assessed at 7 and 14 days post-infection as evaluation criteria for the evaluation of the anticoccidial efficacy of treatments. The packed cell volume (PCV) of the NC group showed a significant decrease at 7 days post-infection but markedly improved at 14 days post-infection. There was a non-significant difference in the antioxidant values of the birds in all groups (p > 0.05), as no definite trend in the value measured parameters were recorded. It was concluded that treating infected birds with V. amygdalina effectively decreased blood loss and improved oxidative defence during caecal coccidiosis.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Dye Acid Orange Seven on Titanium Dioxide Photocatalysts Immobilized on Stainless Steel Coated Layers: Role of Catalyst Loading and Ultrasonic Treatment
Authors: Tum Patrick Kimutai
Published: March 2023

Supported titanium dioxide (TiO2) was investigated for potential application in photocatalytic degradation of dye acid Orange 7 in textile wastewater. Two commercial powder photocatalysts, Degussa (P25) and Precheza (AV01), were immobilized on stainless steel plates of dimensions (75 mm × 25 mm) through Electrophoretic Deposition Process (EPD) from aqueous colloidal suspensions of n-TiO2, c=10 g.L-1 produced in methanol. Two sets of coated layers were prepared - using ultrasonically treated TiO2 colloidal suspensions and without ultrasonic treatment. The prepared coated layers were fitted onto a four-hole photocatalytic reactor operating under batch-mode conditions. As a source of UV light, Sylvania LynxS, 11W UV lamps emitting light of wavelength between 320-400 nm with maximum wavelength at λ=355 nm was used. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the catalyst’s colloidal suspension and electrophoretic deposition loading (mg/cm2) on its surface area on the resultant photocatalytic degradation of dye Acid Orange 7. The photocatalytic degradation of the dye was monitored by changes in dye absorbance for 120 minutes at an interval of 30 minutes. Changes in dye concentration were determined by ultraviolet spectrophotometry at λ = 485 nm. The initial concentration of dye Acid Orange 7 used in the experiments was c=1×10-4 mol. L-1. The findings show that 61.1 % of dye mineralization was achieved after 120 minutes of photocatalytic degradation. The optimum catalytic loading for maximum photocatalytic degradation was determined at 0.75 mg/cm2 for the two commercial powder catalysts - TiO2 (P25/AV01) in ultrasonically treated TiO2 (P25) and non-ultrasonically treated TiO2 (AV01). Ultrasonic treatment of TiO2 (P25) colloidal suspensions before immobilisation positively influenced its photocatalytic activity, whereas ultrasonic treatment negatively affected the photoactivity of TiO2 (AV01). Overall, TiO2 (AV01) proved to be more efficient by 28.6%, compared to TiO2 (P25). The results show the potential application of UV-TiO2 treatment model in the remediation of coloured dye Acid Orange textile wastewater.
Influence of Product Differentiation Strategy on Performance of Commercial Banks in Lodwar, Kenya
Authors: Murerwa Fridah Kagwiria , Onditi Arvin Lucy , Nyagol Michael
Published: March 2023

Commercial banks in Kenya are critical in fostering economic development as they fund investment. However, they are no longer making enough profit to keep them afloat while meeting the needs of their shareholders in the current economic climate due to increased competition both from other peer banks and financial innovations leading to the creation of Fintech firms. As a result, a product differentiation strategy needs to be developed to achieve a sustained competitive strategy. This study aimed to establish the influence of product differentiation strategy on the performance of commercial banks in Lodwar Town. In this respect, the study sought to determine whether a product differentiation strategy can effectively achieve sustainable competitive advantage. The study gathered primary data from four banks in Lodwar, Kenya. The banks included: Equity Bank, Kenya Commercial Bank, Cooperative Bank, and National Bank of Kenya. These banks have been in operation in Lodwar for more than a decade. A combination of questionnaires and interview schedules assisted in generating data. A total of 96 participants took part in the survey, while 4 assisted in answering the interview schedule. Regression analysis was used to test the influence of product differentiation strategy on the performance of commercial banks in Lodwar. The study found out a statistically significant positive relationship between product differentiation strategy and the performance of commercial banks in Lodwar, Kenya. This means that a product differentiation strategy can be used as a strategy to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. The effects of product differentiation strategy on performance differ from one bank to another. The main limitation is that only one area was considered. In addition, the study is correlational in nature. Hence, it cannot be used to infer a causal relationship between the two. Other than conducting additional studies comparing different areas, there is a need to conduct a causal relationship to establish whether product differentiation strategy causes the performance of commercial banks.