bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser induced damage threshold of GaSe with antireflection microstructures at a wavelength of 5 µm
Authors: Kharitonova Polina , Isaenko Lyudmila , Doroshenko Maksim , Smetanin Sergei , Kochukov Yuri , Lobanov Sergei , Yelisseyev Alexander , Goloshumova Alina , Bushunov Andrey , Teslenko Andrei , Lazarev Vladimir , Tarabrin Mikhail
Published: February 2024

Large GaSe crystals were grown and various antireflection microstructures (ARMs) were fabricated on their cleaved surfaces using optimized femtosecond laser ablation, which provided the antireflection effect in a wide wavelength range of 4-16 µm. The influence of ARMs created on the GaSe surface on the change of the laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) of the crystal at a wavelength of 5 μm was evaluated. The 5-µm Fe:ZnMgSe laser with the pulse duration of 135 ns was used for the LIDT test in conditions close to single pulse exposure. The measured values of LIDT of 56 ± 6 MW/cm2 and 51 ± 9 MW/cm2 for two GaSe substrates, respectively, were comparable with the known data of single pulse LIDT of GaSe. The average LIDT intensities of 54 ± 6 MW/cm2 and 52 ± 7 MW/cm2 for the ARMs at two GaSe plates, respectively, were close to LIDT intensities for the corresponding GaSe substrates. The ARMs with lower structural quality had lower LIDT (50-52 MW/cm2) in comparison with the high-quality ARMs (58-60 MW/cm2). High LIDT for high-quality ARMs can be caused by increased selenium content in the ARMs. In any case, all the tested ARMs on the GaSe plates with different surface quality are workable for development of widely tunable mid-infrared nonlinear optical converters.
Generation of THz radiation through molecular modulation in hydrogen-filled hybrid anti-resonant fibers
Authors: Loranger Sébastien , Jafari Foroogh , Zubia Joseba , Novoa David
Published: February 2024

We study the generation of narrowband terahertz (THz) pulses by stimulated Raman scattering and molecular modulation in hydrogen-filled hybrid hollow-core fibers. Using a judicious combination of materials and transverse structures, this waveguide design enables simultaneous confinement of optical and THz signals with reasonably low attenuation, as well as high nonlinear overlap. The THz pulses are then generated as the second Stokes band of a ns-long near-infrared pump pulse, aided by Raman coherence waves excited in the gaseous core by the beat-note created by the pump and its first Stokes band. Optimization of the fiber characteristics facilitates phase matching between the corresponding transitions and coherence waves while avoiding coherent gain suppression, resulting in potential optical-to-THz conversion efficiencies up to 60%, as confirmed by rigorous numerical modelling under ideal zero-loss conditions. When the current optical material constraints are considered, however, the attainable efficiencies relax to 0.2%, a still competitive value compared to other systems. The approach is in principle power and energy scalable, as well as tunable in the 1–10 THz range without any spectral gaps, thereby opening new pathways to the development of fiber-based THz sources complementary to other mature technologies such as quantum cascade lasers.
Optimal parameter selection for the THz-CCS system based on an incoherent light source
Authors: Cheng Cong , Huang Fan , Li Zuolong , Sun Donglin , Jin Xunyuan , Gu Jianqiang , Han Jiaguang , Zhang Weili
Published: February 2024

Terahertz cross correlation spectroscopy (THz-CCS) systems using broadband incoherent light as the pumping source have received increasing attention from researchers in recent years. However, a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of THz-CCS is still needed to obtain a detailed optimization scheme. Here we systematically investigate the influences of the detection parameters, light propagation process, and pump source on the CCS signals. The impacts of the filter slopes and time constants in lock-in detection are revealed for optimizing the signal-to-noise ratio and bandwidth of the THz signal. By varying the optical fiber length and dispersion coefficient, the dispersion insensitivity of THz-CCS was experimentally demonstrated. The comparison of different pump sources (SLD and ASE) shows that the over-wide and non-flat pump spectrum may attenuate the CCS signal because of the energy waste brought by the photomixing process under the limited bandwidth of the photomixer. Our research may lead to a deeper understanding and further optimization of the THz-CCS system, which will promote the development and widespread application of what is to the best of our knowledge a new technique.
O-band QKD link over a multiple ONT loaded carrier-grade GPON for FTTH applications
Authors: Makris Nikolaos , Ntanos Argiris , Papageorgopoulos Alkinoos , Stathopoulos Theofanis , Konteli Persefoni , Stathis Aristeidis , Giannoulis Giannis , Tsoni Iliana , Setaki Foteini , Zavitsanos Dimitris , Lyberopoulos George , Avramopoulos Hercules , Syvridis Dimitris , Kanellos George
Published: February 2024

We have successfully demonstrated the integration of a commercial O-band Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) system over a testbed that replicates a carrier-grade Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) optical access network consisting of components and systems installed in real-life FTTH operational deployments. The experiment demonstrated a QKD transmission over a 1:16 user Gigabit Optical Passive Network (GPON) configuration at the premises of the Telecom Operator COSMOTE that followed the operator’s standard FTTH divided in two splitting stages. The architecture we implemented was a downstream access network with the quantum transmitter located at the operator’s Central Office (CO) and the quantum receiver located on the end user’s side.
Dietary, socioeconomic, and maize handling practices associated with aflatoxin and fumonisin exposure among women tortilla makers in 5 departments in Guatemala
Authors: Garsow Ariel V. , Torres Olga R. , Matute Jorge A. , Voss Danielle M. , Miyagusuku-Cruzado Gonzalo , Giusti M. Monica , Kowalcyk Barbara B.
Published: February 2024

Previous research has demonstrated human exposure to mycotoxins among Guatemalans, with high levels of mycotoxins being found in blood and urine samples as well as in maize for human consumption. Mishandling of crops such as maize during pre- and post-harvest has been associated with mycotoxin contamination. The overarching goal of this study was to identify risk factors for aflatoxin and fumonisin exposure in Guatemala. A cross-sectional survey of 141 women tortilla makers was conducted in the departments of Guatemala, Sololá, Suchitepéquez, Izabal, and Zacapa in February 2022. Maize and tortilla samples were collected and analyzed for aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and fumonisin B1, B2, and B3 contamination (FB1, FB2, FB3). Urine samples were collected and analyzed for urinary FB1 (uFB1) contamination. A questionnaire was administered to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, dietary intake of maize-based foods the week prior to the study, and maize handling practices. Descriptive statistics were used to describe common maize handling practices. A univariable analysis was conducted to identify predictors of low/high AFB1, total fumonisins, and uFB1. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During tortilla processing, a reduction in the AFB1 and total fumonisin levels was observed. The presence of AFB1 in maize was associated with department and mean total fumonisin level in maize (OR: 1.705, 95% CI: 1.113–2.613). The department where the tortilleria was located was significantly associated with the presence of fumonisins in tortillas. Increased consumption of Tortrix was significantly associated with the presence of FB1 in urine (OR: 1.652, 95% CI: 1.072–2.546). Results of this study can be used in the development and implementation of supply chain management practices that mitigate mycotoxin production, reduce food waste and economic loss, and promote food security.
Exceptionally rapid tooth development and ontogenetic changes in the feeding apparatus of the Komodo dragon
Authors: Maho Tea , Reisz Robert R.
Published: February 2024

Dental developmental and replacement patterns in extinct amniotes have attracted a lot of attention. Notable among these are Paleozoic predatory synapsids, but also Mesozoic theropod dinosaurs, well known for having true ziphodonty, strongly serrated carinae with dentine cores within an enamel cap. The Komodo dragon, Varanus komodoensis, is the only extant terrestrial vertebrate to exhibit true ziphodonty, making it an ideal model organism for gaining new insights into the life history and feeding behaviours of theropod dinosaurs and early synapsids. We undertook a comparative dental histological analysis of this extant apex predator in combination with computed tomography of intact skulls. This study allowed us to reconstruct the dental morphology, ontogeny, and replacement patterns in the largest living lizard with known feeding behaviour, and apply our findings to extinct taxa where the behaviour is largely unknown. We discovered through computed tomography that V. komodoensis maintains up to five replacement teeth per tooth position, while histological analysis showed an exceptionally rapid formation of new teeth, every 40 days. Additionally, a dramatic ontogenetic shift in the dental morphology of V. komodoensis was also discovered, likely related to changes in feeding preferences and habitat. The juveniles have fewer dental specializations, lack true ziphodonty, are arboreal and feed mostly on insects, whereas the adults have strongly developed ziphodonty and are terrestrial apex predators with defleshing feeding behaviour. In addition, we found evidence that the ziphodont teeth of V. komodoensis have true ampullae (interdental folds for strengthening the serrations), similar to those found only in theropod dinosaurs. Comparisons with other species of Varanus and successive outgroup taxa reveal a complex pattern of dental features and adaptations, including the evolution of snake-like tongue flicking used for foraging for prey. However, only the Komodo dragon exhibits this remarkable set of dental innovations and specializations among squamates.
Disproportionate burden of violence: Explaining racial and ethnic disparities in potential years of life lost among homicide victims, suicide decedents, and homicide-suicide perpetrators
Authors: Zimmerman Gregory M. , Fridel Emma E. , Trovato Daniel
Published: February 2024

Research indicates that the burden of violent death in the United States is disproportionate across racial and ethnic groups. Yet documented disparities in rates of violent death do not capture the full extent of this inequity. Recent studies examining race-specific rates of potential years of life lost—a summary measure of premature mortality—indicate that persons of color may die at younger ages than their counterparts, leading to increased trauma among surviving family members, friends, and communities. This study examines racial and ethnic disparities in potential years of life lost among people who died by homicide and suicide. We calculated potential years of life lost using life expectancy values specific to each racial and ethnic group, thereby isolating racial differences in potential years of life lost due to violence. Findings indicated that persons of color were disproportionately impacted by violence. Non-Hispanic African American homicide victims, suicide decedents, and homicide-suicide perpetrators died eleven or more years earlier than their non-Hispanic White counterparts. Similar disparities were observed for non-Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islander decedents. Less pronounced differences were observed for Hispanic and non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native decedents. These racial and ethnic disparities were partly accounted for by a broad array of individual differences, incident characteristics, and contextual factors. The results suggest that homicide and suicide exact a high societal cost, and the burden of that cost is disproportionately high among persons of color.
The effect of dietary interventions on inflammatory biomarkers among people with multiple sclerosis: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Shemirani Farnoosh , Pingel Wade R. , Titcomb Tyler J. , Salari-Moghaddam Asma , Arsalandeh Farshad , Saxby Solange M. , Snetselaar Linda G. , Wahls Terry L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory disease of the central nervous system, characterized by demyelination and neurodegeneration, which has a profound impact on the quality of life. Dysregulated inflammatory processes are a major driver of MS progression, with many areas of research being dedicated to modulating inflammation in people with MS. Several dietary patterns have been associated with improvements in inflammatory biomarkers; although, the findings have been inconsistent. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effects of dietary interventions on inflammatory markers in adults with MS.

Methods

Electronic databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane/Central, will be searched. Screening, selection, and extraction of data, along with quality assessment of included studies, will be done by two separate reviewers, and any potential conflicts will be settled through discussion. Two reviewers will independently assess the risk of bias in included studies using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. If plausible, the results will be synthesized and pooled for meta-analysis. The overall quality of evidence of each study will be evaluated using the NutriGRADE tool, which is a modification to the Grading Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) developed specifically for nutrition research.

Discussion

Studies have demonstrated conflicting results regarding the effects of dietary interventions on serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers among people with MS. Thus, it is expected that the planned systematic review and meta-analysis will yield robust evidence on the effects of diet on inflammatory profile in the setting of MS.
Foreign Tourists as Homicide Victims in Croatia: A Routine Activity Approach
Authors: Mataković Hrvoje
Published: February 2024

Safety of tourists is highly important in tourism-oriented countries such as Croatia, and the most serious threat to tourists is homicide. This paper examines the factors that have led to the homicides of foreign tourists in Croatia. For this analysis routine activity theory approach and its three key elements are used: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian. As there is no official data on crimes against foreign tourists in Croatia, the analysis was conducted using data from the media. The data for this analysis was collected using a questionnaire developed specifically for this purpose. The questionnaire included data on 18 variables, which can be divided into three groups: offender characteristics, victim characteristics and the circumstances of the offence. The analysis showed that three factors had the strongest influence on the commission of foreign tourists’ homicides: they entered quarrels with unknown or little-known people; they consumed large amounts of alcohol with people they did not know well; and they were alone in an unfamiliar environment, far from the police or other people who could help them.
Factores de riesgo en la victimización de madres víctimas de Violencia Filioparental (VFP): un estudio observacional de casos-controles
Authors: Vinagre-González Agustina M. , González Fraile Eduardo , Aguilar-Cárceles Marta M. , Soto-Castro Juan E. , Aparicio-García Marta E.
Published: February 2024

Introducción: La Violencia Filioparental (VFP), o violencia ejercida de hijos/as a progenitores, es un tipo de violencia doméstica que ha ido en aumento en los últimos años. La mayoría de los estudios afirman que las madres suelen ser las víctimas más frecuentes. Entre los factores de riesgo de victimización se han estudiado los estereotipos de género, el estilo educativo y ser a su vez víctima de violencia en la relación de pareja. Por ello se diseñó una encuesta dirigida a madres víctimas de VFP y a madres no víctimas con el objetivo de identificar la presencia de estos factores de riesgo. Método: Un total de 54 madres víctimas de VFP y 126 madres que no han sufrido VFP (grupo control) respondieron a medidas de interiorización de normas o mandatos de género basados en la socialización diferencial, medidas de afecto hacia los/as hijos/as y sufrir maltrato por parte de la pareja. Resultados: se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en las variables de afecto-comunicación, pero no hubo diferencias entre ambos grupos en cuanto a interiorización de normas o mandatos de género. Casi el 50% de las madres víctimas de VFP también sufrían maltrato por parte de su pareja.Conclusiones: Se discute la relación entre los estereotipos de género y la probabilidad de ser víctima de VFP en las madres.
Bifurcation analysis of fractional Kirchhoff–Schrödinger–Poisson systems in

R

3
Authors: Wang Linlin , Xing Yuming
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we investigate the bifurcation results of the fractional Kirchhoff–Schrödinger–Poisson system

{

M
(
[
u

]
s
2

)
(
−
Δ

)
s

u
+
V
(
x
)
u
+
ϕ
(
x
)
u
=
λ
g
(
x
)

|

u

|

p
−
1

u
+

|

u

|

2
s
∗

−
2

u
 
 

i
n

 

R

3

,

(
−
Δ

)
t

ϕ
(
x
)
=

u
2

 
 

i
n

 

R

3

,

where
s
,
t
∈
(
0
,
1
)
with
2
t
+
4
s
>
3
and the potential function V is a continuous function. We show that the existence of components of (weak) solutions of the above equation bifurcates out from the first eigenvalue

λ
1

of the problem
(
−
Δ

)
s

u
+
V
(
x
)
u
=
λ
g
(
x
)
u

in 

R

3

.

The main feature of this paper is the inclusion of a potentially degenerate Kirchhoff model, combined with the critical nonlinearity.
Exact solution of the Susceptible–Exposed–Infectious–Recovered–Deceased (SEIRD) epidemic model
Authors: Yoshida Norio
Published: February 2024

An exact solution of an initial value problem for the Susceptible–Exposed–Infectious–Recovered–Deceased (SEIRD) epidemic model is derived, and various properties of the exact solution are obtained. It is shown that the parametric form of the exact solution satisfies some linear differential system including a positive solution of an Abel differential equation of the second kind. In this paper Abel differential equations play an important role in establishing the exact solution of the SEIRD differential system, in particular the number of infected individuals can be represented in a simple form by using a positive solution of an initial value problem for an Abel differential equation. Uniqueness of positive solutions of an initial value problem to SEIRD differential system is also investigated, and it is shown that the exact solution is a unique solution in the class of positive solutions.
TRADE RELATIONS OF THE ALTAI TERRITORY AND THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN IN THE FIELD OF FOOD
Authors: Balashova S. P. , Devyataykin A. P.
Published: February 2024

Currently, the processes of globalization in the international arena are intensifying, and processes of economic integration are taking place. The Russian Federation and the Altai Territory, as its subject, must look for opportunities to develop foreign economic activity, taking into account international tensions associated with political decisions.

The Altai Territory and the Republic of Kazakhstan have long-standing historical ties, which continue today in the sphere of economics and trade. Both territories are located at the intersection of many transport routes, which creates additional opportunities for the development of trade relations. One of the main sectors of the economy of the Altai Territory is agriculture. The Republic of Kazakhstan is also a major producer of agricultural products. In this regard, the prospects for the development of trade relations between the Altai Territory and Kazakhstan in this area are very high. Mutual supplies of products can become the basis for strengthening economic ties between them.

The article analyzes the trends in foreign trade between the two countries and highlights the key problems of the foreign economic partnership between Russia and Kazakhstan, which negatively impact foreign economic, political and cultural relations.
EQUIPMENT PRODUCTION STIMULATION MECHANISMS AS A KEY FACTOR OF THE STATE INDUSTRIAL POLICY IMPLEMENTATION
Authors: Gavlovskaya G. V. , Volkov A. D.
Published: February 2024

Equipment production stimulation mechanisms in Russia are investigated in the article, main directions of the state support in described area are highlighted. Its role is in the acquisition of domestic industrial equipment by interprises is emphasized as one of the effective measures to stimulate the development of the machine tool industry. It is justified that stimulation of the production of domestic industrial equipment by the state is a key vector of the import substitution program implementation, acts as the most pressing task for the industrial sector of the Russian economy at the present time. The problems that need to be solved in the area of equipment production stimulation mechanisms expending in Russia are highlighted, first of all: increasing the government funding for the production of equipment and components; determination of the status of foreign factories that have suspended their operations since 2022; solving the issue of personnel shortage at the enterprises of the machine tool industry. There is shown the necessity to expand such measures as: inclusion of the largest enterprises of the Russian machine tool industry in the list of systemically important companies with their subsequent enhanced financial support from the government; expansion of public-private partnership projects in the production of equipment and components; development of the technology parks and the industrial clusters; reduction of loan rates for the industrial enterprises; restoration of the system of vocational schools and increasing of the engineering specialties prestige; support of the technology marketing companies; creation of the specialized research and development centers.
MONITORING THE ORGANIZATION'S RECEIVABLES WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF CONTROLLING
Authors: Semina L. A. , Chernysheva O. G. , Ergardt O. I.
Published: February 2024

Increasing the competitiveness of manufacturers of industrial products based on controlling is an important strategic task for many companies. Controlling is a management system that allows you to collect, analyze and use information about financial, operational and other performance indicators of an enterprise. One of the main reasons for introducing controlling is the need to make smart decisions based on reliable and up-to-date information. Controlling allows you to get a complete picture of the current state of the enterprise, identify potential problems and opportunities, and also predict future development. The use of controlling leads to optimization of production processes and increased efficiency in the use of resources. By analyzing production data, companies can identify bottlenecks in the production chain and take action to eliminate them.

This allows you to increase productivity and product quality, as well as reduce costs. The article shows that the introduction of controlling is an important step to increase the competitiveness of manufacturers of industrial products. An algorithm for decision-making within the framework of controlling accounts receivable is presented, with signal points being formed. This allows companies to make informed decisions based on reliable information and optimize production and management processes.
CROWDFUNDING SYARIAH UNTUK PENGEMBANGAN PRODUK PERBANKAN SYARIAH DARI PERSPEKTIF SHARIAH COMPLIANCE
Authors: Rasyid Muthiah Az-Zahra , Setyowati Ro'fah , Islamiyati Islamiyati
Published: February 2024

Dampak dari perkembangan Fintech (Financial Technology) yaitu munculnya crowdfunding di jejaring internet. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah: pertama, untuk mengetahui konsep crowdfunding-syariah di Indonesia dari perspektif shariah compliance; Kedua, untuk mengetahui pelaksanaan crowdfunding-syariah dari perspektif shariah compliance. Metode yang digunakan oleh peneliti adalah metode pendekatan yuridis empiris. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa transaksi dalam konsep crowdfunding-syariah yang sesuai dengan syariat Islam yaitu transaksi ekonomi yang riil, bukan termasuk transaksi yang dilarang dan dilaksanakan sesuai syariat Islam. Sedangkan pihak yang bersangkutan dengan konsep crowdfunding-syariah ini adalah inisiator proyek, penyelenggara, investor, dan dewan pengawas syariah. Pelaksanaan crowdfunding-syariah dapat dilihat dari penerapan, legal issue, dan solusi problematika hukum crowdfunding-syariah. Rekomendasi berdasarkan hasil penelitian ini, yaitu perlu diadakan sosialisasi ekonomi syariah dan financial technology, terutama tentang crowdfunding-syariah. Selain itu, perlu peraturan khusus mengenai crowdfunding-syariah. Untuk mendukung pelaksanaan crowdfunding-syariah, diharapkan ada modernisasi teknologi serta peningkatan kualitas SDM di Indonesia.
KEBIJAKAN PEMERINTAH DAERAH ISTIMEWA YOGYAKARTA MENGENAI PEMILIHAN KEPALA DAERAH YANG BIAS GENDER DITINJAU DARI UNDANG-UNDANG NOMOR 13 TAHUN 2012 TENTANG KEISTIMEWAAN DAERAH ISTIMEWA YOGYAKARTA
Authors: Pratama Galuh Prasetio , Purwanti Ani , Wijaningsih Dyah
Published: February 2024

Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta merupakan suatu daerah yang memiliki otonomi khusus. Dimana otonomi khusus tersebut memberikan kewenangan suatu daerah untuk membuat kebijakan sesuai dengan nilai-nilai yang hidup dalam masyarakatnya, khususnya norma adat Kraton Yogyakarta yang menjadi corak tersendiri bagi Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta. Namun, meskipun Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta merupakan daerah yang memiliki otonomi khusus, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta tetap harus tunduk pada hukum yang berlaku dalam Negara Republik Indonesia dan dasar negara. Dalam kebijakan yang mengatur mengenai pengisian jabatan Gubernur dan Wakil Gubernur dapat dikatakan inkonstitusional dan menyimpang dari dasar negara. Hal ini dikarenakan adanya unsur diskriminatif gender dalam kebijakakan tersebut. Dalam penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan socio-legal. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah data primer yang dilakukan dengan wawancara langsung kepada para sumber dan didukung oleh studi kepustakaan. Maka dari itu tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk membuktikan bahwa kebijakan yang mengatur mengenai pengisian jabatan Gubernur dan Wakil Gubernur Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta dinilai bias gender. Dimana suatu kebijakan seharusnya tidak boleh diskriminatif. Karena setiap warga negara sama kedudukannya di hadapan hukum.
NGF contributes to activities of acid‐sensing ion channels in dorsal root ganglion neurons of male rats with experimental peripheral artery disease
Authors: Li Qin , Li Jianhua
Published: February 2024

A feature of peripheral artery diseases (PAD) includes limb ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and ischemia. Both I/R and ischemia amplify muscle afferent nerve‐activated reflex sympathetic nervous and blood pressure responses (termed as exercise pressor reflex). Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms responsible for the exaggerated autonomic responses in PAD are undetermined. Previous studies suggest that acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) in muscle dorsal root ganglion (DRG) play a leading role in regulating the exercise pressor reflex in PAD. Thus, we determined if signaling pathways of nerve growth factor (NGF) contribute to the activities of ASICs in muscle DRG neurons of PAD. In particular, we examined ASIC1a and ASIC3 currents in isolectin B4‐negative muscle DRG neurons, a distinct subpopulation depending on NGF for survival. Hindlimb I/R and ischemia were obtained in male rats. In results, femoral artery occlusion increased the levels of NGF and NGF‐stimulated TrkA receptor in DRGs, whereas they led to upregulation of ASIC3 but not ASIC1a. In addition, application of NGF onto DRG neurons increased the density of ASIC3 currents and the effect of NGF was significantly attenuated by TrkA antagonist GW441756. Moreover, the enhancing effect of NGF on the density of ASIC3‐like currents was decreased by the respective inhibition of intracellular signaling pathways, namely JNK and NF‐κB, by antagonists SP600125 and PDTC. Our results suggest contribution of NGF to the activities of ASIC3 currents via JNK and NF‐κB signaling pathways in association with the exercise pressor reflex in experimental PAD.
Tri-arm MIMO array antenna pair for mobile phone applications
Authors: Zhang Min , Wen Lehu , Xiao Wenchao
Published: February 2024

An 8 × 8 tri-arm multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) array using novel even–odd mode decouplers is presented. To decouple the directly connected driven ports on the tri-arm antenna pair, a T-shaped stub working as an even-mode decoupler and a narrow strip working as an odd-mode decoupler are elaborately introduced. Therefore, the even-mode and odd-mode impedances cross with the antenna input impedance, and a deep coupling zero is achieved at this cross frequency. Finally, the proposed 8 × 8 MIMO array was developed, fabricated, and measured for further performance verification. The measured results show that the proposed array can have a wide isolation bandwidth of 17.2 % with a compact size of 0.44λ
0 × 0.08λ
0 and zero clearance requirement on the ground plane. The diversity performances are also investigated with the measured worst envelope correlation coefficient less than 0.05.
A State-Wide Initiative to Improve Health System Responses to People With Borderline Personality Disorder Symptoms in Crisis: A Retrospective Audit
Authors: Bartsch Dianna R. , McLeod Everitt Cathy , Bednarz Jana , Ludbrook Cathy , Cammell Paul
Published: February 2024

Gold Card SA is a four-session structured psychological intervention offered soon after an acute crisis presentation to people with symptoms characteristic of borderline personality disorder. This study describes individual and system-level outcomes from a large-scale health-care improvement initiative to implement Gold Card SA across South Australia. An uncontrolled pre-post study design was utilized examining service user (n = 332) patient-reported outcome measures and hospital service utilization records (6 months before and after Gold Card SA). Mixed-effects negative binomial regression analysis revealed a significant decrease in rates of service utilization across emergency department presentations (63%), mental health-related inpatient admissions (65%), and bed days (82%). Linear mixed-effect regression indicated large reductions in borderline symptoms and nonspecific psychological distress, and small to moderate improvements in psychosocial functioning. People presenting with or experiencing borderline personality disorder symptoms may benefit from a brief crisis intervention embedded within a stepped care model.
EAEU: ASSESSMENT AND POPULARIZATION OF ACHIEVEMENTS
Authors:   Institute of Europe, RAS, Kondratieva Natalia
Published: February 2024

The subject of the study is the problem of assessing and perceiving the contribution of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to the economy of the member states. In the first part, a variant of calculating the role of the Union is proposed on the basis of an additive model summarizing the results of trade and investment cooperation within the Union over the period of its activity; the values obtained are correlated with the GDP of the member states. The conclusion is made about the leading role of trade and economic ties in the EAEU space in the development of Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Armenia. It is recommended to take into account the statistics of mutual trade turnover, rather than the balance, in the description of the role of the EAEU; significant differences in estimates are shown depending on the chosen approach. In the second part, the tools of information support and coverage of the organization’s activities are tracked, contributing to the popularization of the benefits of integration. The ways of development of the information and communication policy of the EAEU are proposed, including taking into account the experience of the relevant policy of the European Union. In the passive forms of communication, according to the author, it is advisable to create official Internet portals explaining the legislation of the EAEU; it is valuable to focus attention in information publications on quantitative achievements and integration benchmarks; among the active forms, the organization of network conferences on the present and future is proposed, contributing both to awareness of the benefits of integration and further disclosure of the potential of the EAEU
Parvalbumin and Somatostatin: Biomarkers for Two Parallel Tectothalamic Pathways in the Auditory Midbrain
Authors: Liu Mengting , Gao Yixiao , Xin Fengyuan , Hu Ying , Wang Tao , Xie Fenghua , Shao Chengjun , Li Tianyu , Wang Ningyu , Yuan Kexin
Published: February 2024

The inferior colliculus (IC) represents a crucial relay station in the auditory pathway, located in the midbrain's tectum and primarily projecting to the thalamus. Despite the identification of distinct cell classes based on various biomarkers in the IC, their specific contributions to the organization of auditory tectothalamic pathways have remained poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that IC neurons expressing parvalbumin (ICPV+) or somatostatin (ICSOM+) represent two minimally overlapping cell classes throughout the three IC subdivisions in mice of both sexes. Strikingly, regardless of their location within the IC, these neurons predominantly project to the primary and secondary auditory thalamic nuclei, respectively. Cell class-specific input tracing suggested that ICPV+neurons primarily receive auditory inputs, whereas ICSOM+neurons receive significantly more inputs from the periaqueductal gray and the superior colliculus (SC), which are sensorimotor regions critically involved in innate behaviors. Furthermore, ICPV+neurons exhibit significant heterogeneity in both intrinsic electrophysiological properties and presynaptic terminal size compared with ICSOM+neurons. Notably, approximately one-quarter of ICPV+neurons are inhibitory neurons, whereas all ICSOM+neurons are excitatory neurons. Collectively, our findings suggest that parvalbumin and somatostatin expression in the IC can serve as biomarkers for two functionally distinct, parallel tectothalamic pathways. This discovery suggests an alternative way to define tectothalamic pathways and highlights the potential usefulness of Cre mice in understanding the multifaceted roles of the IC at the circuit level.
ICAM-1 Deletion Using CRISPR/Cas9 Protects the Brain from Traumatic Brain Injury-Induced Inflammatory Leukocyte Adhesion and Transmigration Cascades by Attenuating the Paxillin/FAK-Dependent Rho GTPase Pathway
Authors: Saikia Bibhuti Ballav , Bhowmick Saurav , Malat Anitha , Preetha Rani M. R. , Thaha Almas , Abdul-Muneer P. M.
Published: February 2024

Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is identified as an initiator of neuroinflammatory responses that lead to neurodegeneration and cognitive and sensory–motor deficits in several pathophysiological conditions including traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the underlying mechanisms of ICAM-1–mediated leukocyte adhesion and transmigration and its link with neuroinflammation and functional deficits following TBI remain elusive. Here, we hypothesize that blocking of ICAM-1 attenuates the transmigration of leukocytes to the brain and promotes functional recovery after TBI. The experimental TBI was induced in vivo by fluid percussion injury (25 psi) in male and female wild-type andICAM-1−/−mice and in vitro by stretch injury (3 psi) in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMVECs). We treated hBMVECs and animals with ICAM-1 CRISPR/Cas9 and conducted several biochemical analyses and demonstrated that CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ICAM-1 deletion mitigates blood–brain barrier (BBB) damage and leukocyte transmigration to the brain by attenuating the paxillin/focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-dependent Rho GTPase pathway. For analyzing functional outcomes, we used a cohort of behavioral tests that included sensorimotor functions, psychological stress analyses, and spatial memory and learning following TBI. In conclusion, this study could establish the significance of deletion or blocking of ICAM-1 in transforming into a novel preventive approach against the pathophysiology of TBI.
THE USE OF HIGH-TEMPERATURE NUCLEAR REACTORS IN HYDROGEN PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES
Authors:   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Dubkovskiy V. , Segeda V. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University
Published: February 2024

The possibility of using high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactors (HTGR) for hydrogen production as an alternative to organic fossil fuel is considered. An overview of modern technologies of hydrogen production and its advantages as an energy carrier was conducted. The structure of world production and consumption of hydrogen is given. The exceptional properties of hydrogen as an energy carrier and component of various technological processes reveal the prospect of its application in various fields of energy, transport and industry. If previously the main advantages of hydrogen were considered to be its energy intensity, ability to store and distribute, now and for the future the key factor is itsenvironmental cleanliness and the ability to decarbonize transport, chemical, petrochemical, metallurgical industries and the utility sector. Currently, the majority of hydrogen and hydrogen-containing products are produced using steam conversion of natural gas. At the same time, 40...50% of natural gas is spent on the energy supply of the conversion process. In order to save natural gas and reduce the burden on the environment, methane steam conversion schemes with heat input from a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor have been developed. For conversion, a temperature level of 1000...1200 K is required. It is this temperature level that HTGR can provide. The proposed scheme of a multi-purpose nuclear power plant (MNPP) with a HTGR for the production of hydrogen during the steam conversion of natural gas and electricity generation and the main parameters of an MNPP with a HTGR with a thermal capacity of 3000 MW are calculated. A decrease in the consumption of natural gas was determined, comparable to the traditional technologies.
IMPROVEMENT OF THE MODEL AND METHOD OF ARTILLERY INSTALLATION TARGET DAMAGE CONTROL WITH MINIMAL COMBAT CAPABILITY LOSS
Authors: Maksymova O. , Boltyonkov V. , Gultsov P. , Maksymov O.
Published: February 2024

Artillery systems of the armed forces of the state ensure its security and sovereignty. Modern artillery systems perform combat work close to the tasks of tactical missiles, with reduced time and resources. An integral part of military art is tactics, which is inherent in the information environment and its implementation by specialized units. An integral part of tactical research of any military operation is its mathematical modeling. Of particular interest is the possibility of obtaining simulation results in the case of the fundamental absence of some types of combat resources, or the use of only one type of weapons. A model of controlling the combat work of an artillery i system has been developed, which resolves the execution of the combat task of destroying the target with a given number of shells under the condition of changing the firing position in order to reduce the probability of its fire damage by the artillery installation of the opposing side. The model considers that all shots are effective. The model assumes that the number of firing positions is equal to the number of shots, and the minimum number of shots from a firing position is equal to one. The model of change of position does not involve a return to the previous ones. Simulations of movement from one position to another take place along one of the roads of different quality. A method of finding a decision on the state of execution of the combat task by the artillery system of the attacking party has been developed. The concept of the current structure of combat mission performance is introduced. The method of finding a solution about the state of execution of a combat task by an artillery system can be attributed to the solution of Pareto-oriented problems, or dynamic programming problems. The model calculation method consists of a general algorithm, which is based on developed specialized additional algorithms. The obtained results proved the possibility of carrying out a combat mission with a maximum of two shots from each firing position. Just as the tactic of expending shots to destroy a target in the amount of 10 shots is focused on defensive tactics, the tactic of destroying a target in the amount of 4 shots can correspond to combat actions during the offensive. Therefore, the “shot-and-scoot” offensive tactic can be called “hid-and-shot”.
EFFICIENCY OF TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEMS TRANSMISSION OF FIXED BROADBAND ACCESS THROUGH TELEPHONE CABLES
Authors:   State University of Intellectual Technologies and Communication, Balashov V. , Oreshkov V. ,   State University of Intellectual Technologies and Communication, Barba I. ,   State University of Intellectual Technologies and Communication, Makarov I. ,   State University of Intellectual Technologies and Communication
Published: February 2024

The article provides an assessment of the efficiency of transmission data systems by digital subscriber lines of fixed broadband access over multi-pair telephone cables using the transient interference compensation system “vectoring” between transmission systems. A technique for calculating the signal-to-noise ratio at the receiver input is proposed, which takes into account frequency characteristics and additive interference of lines, uncompensated transient interference between mutually influencing transmission systems, and the limitation of the power of transmitted signals associated with the normalization of the transmitter power, caused by the use of the “vectoring” system. The effectiveness of transmission systems with the help of the transient interference compensation system “vectoring” is evaluated by broadband access network models using G.fast technology when using a multi-pair telephone cable of the TPP type with the number of pairs up to 100 in the frequency range up to 106 MHz and line lengths up to 250 meters. The achievable transmission speed is estimated depending on the characteristics of subscriber lines, the number of parallel operating transmission systems and the limitation of the transmitted signal power. It was determined that the main reason for limiting the achievable speed of information transmission when using the “vectoring” system is the frequency characteristics and additive interference of subscriber lines, uncompensated transient interference and limitation of the power of the transmitted signal. The proposed method of evaluating the signal/noise ratio and the achievable speed of data transmission with vectoring transient interference compensation systems can be applied in the tasks of designing and building fixed broadband access networks that use multi-pair telephone cables and twisted pair cables as a transmission medium.
The possibility for municipal subsidiaries to seek in-house public contracts and EU funding for local and regional development projects
Authors:   University of Bialystok, Faculty of Law, Poland, Brzozowski Przemysław
Published: February 2024

The aim of the article is to analyse the issues of establishing and functioning of municipal subsidiaries and the lawfulness of such companies applying for EU funding for local and regional development projects. In this article, the author attempts to answer the following questions: what limitations are there in the procedure for founding municipal subsidiaries?; can municipal subsidiaries seek public contracts within the framework of in-house procurement?; can municipal subsidiaries apply for EU funding? The study was conducted using the legal-dogmatic method and it was based on an analysis of legislation and selected decisions of the Court of Justice of the European Union and the Polish National Appeals Chamber relating to the awarding of in-house public contracts and the founding of municipal subsidiaries. Further analysed were the legal possibilities for such companies to be awarded in-house public contracts and to apply for EU funding to invest in their projects. The study allowed to answer the questions posed. The concept of new business entities, or municipal subsidiaries, being founded by local authorities or their municipal companies is not only permitted by law, subject to certain statutory restrictions, but it may also turn out to be advantageous when it comes to awarding public contracts on an in-house basis or seeking EU funding for local and regional development projects. The study allowed for the creation of legal grounds for the practical use by local government units of the concept of municipal subsidiaries, in particular in terms of in-house public contracts and applying for EU funding for local and regional development projects.
Uvodna riječ
Authors: Lakuš Jelena
Published: February 2024

Uvodna riječ.
ОЦІНКА ФІЗИЧНОГО РОЗВИТКУ СТУДЕНТІВ ПРИКАРПАТТЯ
Authors: Оклієвич Людмила , Партан Роман , Тірон Марія , Данищук Андрій
Published: February 2024

Мета роботи – вивчити фізіологічний статус студентів 17-22 років. Методи дослідження. АТ визначали методом Короткова, ЧСС – методом пальпації; розрахунок систолічного і хвилинного об’єму крові (СОК і ХОК), фізичний розвиток (ФР) за відповідними формулами; визначення ЖЄЛ – спірометричним методом; вимірювання росту - ростоміром; визначення ваги тіла -на медичній вазі. Результати. Показані вікові особливості ФР в залежності від функціональних показників організму студентів 1-5 курсу Встановлено, що серед дівчат 5 курсу виявляється 11% гіпертоніків та 11% гіпотоніків. Висновки. 1. Гемодинамічні та показники ФР у 70% студентів знаходяться в межах фізіологічної норми, із незначними варіаціями окремих показників. 2. у студентів 2-3 курсів спостерігається тенденція до збільшення АТ, що тісно корелює із змінами ЧСС; 2.Тільки окремі студенти мали дисгармонійний ФР з надлишком ваги тіла, рідше зустрічався дефіцит ваги тіла. З віком спостерігалося поступове збільшення усіх параметрів ФР.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ФІЗИЧНОЇ ПІДГОТОВКИ СТУДЕНТІВ-БАСКЕТБОЛІСТІВ І МЕТОДИ КОНТРОЛЮ ЇХ ФІЗИЧНОГО РОЗВИТКУ
Authors: Балацька Лариса , Васкан Іван
Published: February 2024

Мета статті – здійснити аналіз специфіки фізичної підготовки у баскетболістів та розкрити методи оцінки щодо їх фізичного розвитку. Методи дослідження – аналіз, узагальнення, система-тизація даних наукових досліджень та літературних джерел. Результати. У статті міститься опис основних критеріїв фізичного розвитку спортсменів- баскетболістів. У роботі описано специфіку підготовки юнаків до ігор, методи, що аналізують показники здоров’я та їх можливості. У статті також відображені особливості роботи з високими гравцями та гравцями з невисоким зростом, способи вдосконалення їх позитивних та усунення негативних якостей.