bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Trust in the Finnish UBI Experiment – Is the Secret Universalism or Less Bureaucracy?
Authors: de Andrade Luiz Henrique Alonso , Ylikännö Minna , Kangas Olli
Published: December 2021

Bureaucratic selectivity mechanisms are the true colours of welfare states, stigmatising benefit recipients while hampering their trust in institutions and society at large. Universal policies such as the Universal Basic Income (UBI) could protect recipients’ trust by circumventing selectivity paraphernalia. By analysing regressions on the Finnish UBI experiment’s survey data, we assess the links from policy selectivity to trust in the benefit-providing institution and generalised trust through the pathway of reduced bureaucratic experience. More specifically, we analyse whether receipt of UBI leads to greater trust directly or while accompanied by an actual or perceived reduction in bureaucracy. According to our results, UBI is accompanied by greater trust, while selectivity does not necessarily lead to less trust or perception of less bureaucracy. However, in our analysis, policy selectivity did not directly correlate to recipients’ reported bureaucratic experiences, and their relationship with trust proved tricky: selectivity did not risk recipients’ trust in the policy-implementing institution, but generalised trust in other people was lowered. Thus, selective benefit recipients might be prone to self-inflicted stigma, hampering their trust in other people, regardless of actual bureaucratic experiences or trust in the welfare system.
A fuzzy sensitivity analysis approach to estimate brain effective connectivity and its application to epileptic seizure detection
Authors: Moharamzadeh Nader , Motie Nasrabadi Ali
Published: December 2021

The brain is considered to be the most complicated organ in human body. Inferring and quantification of effective (causal) connectivity among regions of the brain is an important step in characterization of its complicated functions. The proposed method is comprised of modeling multivariate time series with Adaptive Neurofuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and carrying out a sensitivity analysis using Fuzzy network parameters as a new approach to introduce a connectivity measure for detecting causal interactions between interactive input time series. The results of simulations indicate that this method is successful in detecting causal connectivity. After validating the performance of the proposed method on synthetic linear and nonlinear interconnected time series, it is applied to epileptic intracranial Electroencephalography (EEG) signals. The result of applying the proposed method on Freiburg epileptic intracranial EEG data recorded during seizure shows that the proposed method is capable of discriminating between the seizure and non-seizure states of the brain.
Influence of potato variety on polyphenol profile composition and glycoalcaloid contents of potato juice
Authors: Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Zembrzuska Joanna , Drożdżyńska Agnieszka , Smarzyński Krzysztof , Radzikowska Dominika , Kieliszek Marek , Jeżowski Paweł , Sawinska Zuzanna
Published: December 2021

The results of studies published in recent years indicate the broad biological activity of potato juice (PJ), which is a byproduct of the starch production process. Among the most frequently described activities are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects. Nevertheless, this waste juice is produced by the processing of many varieties of potatoes with different proportions, which does not allow to conclude on the biological activity of individual varieties. This article is a report on the antioxidant activity of PJ from seven selected potato varieties, their profile of polyphenolic compounds, and the content of glycoalkaloids (GAs). The use of similar cultivation conditions allowed to eliminate the influence of environmental factors on the content of the analyzed compounds. The influence of PJ on the growth of probiotic, commensal, and pathogenic bacteria was also assessed. It was shown that the varieties significantly influenced the differences in antioxidant activity as well as the content of GAs, but despite the observed differences, none of them showed antimicrobial activity. Therefore, it can be concluded that an appropriately selected variety will make it possible to obtain PJ that will be characterized by high antioxidant activity and, at the same time, will be safe from the toxicological point of view.
Are the upper bounds for new SARS-CoV-2 infections in Germany useful?
Authors: Bock Wolfgang , Jayathunga Yashika , Götz Thomas , Rockenfeller Robert
Published: December 2021

At the end of 2019, an outbreak of a new coronavirus, called SARS–CoV–2, was reported in China and later in other parts of the world. First infection reported in Germany by the end of January 2020 and on March 16th, 2020 the federal government announced a partial lockdown in order to mitigate the spread. Since the dynamics of new infections started to slow down, German states started to relax the confinement measures as to May 6th, 2020. As a fall back option, a limit of 50 new infections per 100,000 inhabitants within seven days was introduced for each district in Germany. If a district exceeds this limit, measures to control the spread of the virus should be taken. Based on a multi–patch SEAIRD–type model, we will simulate the effect of choosing a specific upper limit for new infections. We investigate, whether the politically motivated bound is low enough to detect new outbreaks at an early stage. Subsequently, we introduce an optimal control problem to tackle the multi–criteria problem of finding a bound for new infections that is low enough to avoid new outbreaks, which might lead to an overload of the health care system, but is large enough to curb the expected economic losses.
Development, characterization, and in vitro evaluation of adhesive fibrous mat for mucosal propranolol delivery
Authors: Pérez-González Graciela Lizeth , Cornejo-Bravo José Manuel , Vera-Graciano Ricardo , Adan-López Eduardo Sinaí , Villarreal-Gómez Luis Jesús
Published: December 2021

This research focuses on the synthesis and adhesive properties of mucoadhesive mats, prepared with poly(vinylic alcohol) as a base polymer for the oromucosal release of propranolol (PRO) by the electrospinning technique. The nanofibers mats were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry; in vitro drug entrapment efficiency, degradation time, and adhesion studies were performed. SEM images of the electrospun mats show the correct formation of fibers with a variable diameter and porosity. Thermal studies indicate excellent thermal stability of the scaffolds, The fibrous mats loaded with 10% of the drug exhibit the best thermal stability with decomposition after 450°C. In vitro studies indicate a drug content of 88% loaded in the mats. In the cytotoxicity test, loaded mat presents cell proliferations of 97% and 88% for drug concentrations of 10% an 15%, respectively. To conclude, the formed electrospun adhesive mats exhibited excellent thermal stability, adhesive properties, and drug entrapment efficiency, promising features for a successful drug topical release system on mucosal tissue in the oral cavity.
Dimensional stability and decay resistance of clay treated, furfurylated, and clay-reinforced furfurylated poplar wood
Authors: Zhang Liangliang , Wang Wang , Chen Jinyu , Cao Jinzhen
Published: December 2021

Plantation-grown poplar (Populus cathayana) is regarded as a source of low-quality wood, with poor dimensional stability and low decay resistance. In this study, poplar wood was impregnated with sodium montmorillonite (Na-MMT) or organo-montmorillonite (O-MMT), furfuryl alcohol (FA, at concentrations of 15%, 30% and 50%), separately or in their combinations to prepare clay treated, furfurylated, and clay-reinforced furfurylated wood, respectively. The two-step method by introducing Na-MMT first and then FA and organic modifier was feasible to achieve a reasonable penetration. These components could entirely enter the wood cell lumen or partly enter the wood cell wall, and thus initiate a series of reactions. Compared with Na-MMT reinforced furfurylated wood (M-F), the O-MMT reinforced furfurylated wood (O-F) exhibited better dimensional stability (ASE up to 71%) and decay resistance (3.2% mass loss). Moreover, O-MMT played a predominant role in decay resistance of O-MMT reinforced furfurylated wood. Even at low O-MMT loadings, the modified wood had a significant inhibitory effect on the white-rot decay fungus Trametes versicolor. Based on an overall evaluation, O-MMT reinforced furfurylated wood seemed to provide an optimal choice for both moist or wet conditions.
Mapping the biotic degradation hazard of wood in Europe – biophysical background, engineering applications, and climate change-induced prospects
Authors: van Niekerk Philip B. , Marais Brendan N. , Brischke Christian , Borges Luisa M.S. , Kutnik Magdalena , Niklewski Jonas , Ansard David , Humar Miha , Cragg Simon M. , Militz Holger
Published: December 2021

Construction using timber has seen a resurgence in light of global climate mitigation policies. Wood is a renewable resource, and engineered wood products are proving to be competitive against concrete and steel while having several advantages. However, while the renewable nature of wood in construction is a beneficial property for climate mitigation policies, the process of biodegradation introduces a challenge for service life planning. A review of hazard mapping is presented while developing contemporary hazard maps, occurrence maps and projected hazard maps for 2050 using representative concentration pathways (RCP) 2.6 and 8.5. The risk of timber decay is expected to increase in most of Europe as the temperatures rise, with a decrease expected in dryer regions. Termites are likely to experience a range expansion as more areas become suitable, while human activity and an increase in extreme weather events like floods are expected to facilitate dispersion. Marine borer species already present a risk in most European coastal regions; however, the effect of changes in water temperatures are likely to shift the boundaries for individual borer species. Overall, warmer climates are expected to increase the metabolic activity of all of these organisms leading to a general reduction in service life.
Photocatalytic degradation of acetaminophen in water via ultraviolet light and titanium dioxide thin films part II: chemical and kinetic aspects
Authors: Rawal Sunil , Buer Sabrina H. , Sanders J. Robby , Arce Pedro E.
Published: December 2021

Among the large family of emergent pharmaceutical contaminants, we find acetaminophen (ACE) that critically needs to be removed from wastewater. Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) have proven effective in the degradation of large molecular contaminants from water. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study reported on the degradation of ACE based on immobilized TiO2 thin films. In an effort to increase the understanding of the efficiency of the degradation process, an in-depth investigation of the effects of the structure, i.e., coating layers and the amount of surface, i.e., number of coated slides used, is needed. Transparent, anatase-form TiO2 thin films were prepared via the sol-gel method (Rawal, S., S. Buer, J. R. Sanders, and P. E. Arce. 2021. “Photocatalytic Degradation of Acetaminophen from Water Solutions Via Thin Films. Part I: Synthesis and Characterization of TiO2 Thin Films.” International Journal of Reactor Engineering [Accepted]) and deposited onto glass microscope slides using a novel spraying technique, with coatings ranging from one to 10 layers. This contribution summarizes the effect of several key factors including initial concentration of the ACE, the number of coating layers (6, 8, and 10) on the glass slides and the number (4 and 6) of slides on the degradation levels for three selected media, e.g., acid, neutral and base. Comparisons studies, supported by statistical analysis between two different sets (4 and 6) of slides with discussion of potential physical-chemical reasons behind the behaviors are reported. Finally, global, first order kinetic rate constants are also reported for the different conditions used in the investigation. Although further research would be needed, in general the results are promising for the potential degradation of ACE in continuous flow systems by using immobilized TiO2 on surfaces as thin films.
Characteristics of carbide slag slurry flow in a bubble column carbonation reactor
Authors: Zheng Peng , Zhou Genfu , Li Weiling , Zhao Chuanwen , Huang Pu , Hua Junye , Sun Jian , Guo Yafei
Published: December 2021

The direct aqueous mineral carbonation of carbide slag was investigated. The flow characteristics of carbide slag-CO2-water reaction system in a bubble column were studied, which included the bubble Sauter mean diameter, gas holdup, bubble residence time, and the gas-liquid interfacial area. Bubble flow behaviors in the reactor were characterized by analyzing the bed pressure signals. The effects of the gas velocity (U

g
) and liquid to solid ratio (L/S ratio) were discussed and analyzed. The results showed that the larger bubbles were easy to form at the larger L/S ratio, which indicated that the bubble coalescence was promoted. The gas holdup was larger when increasing U

g
or reducing the L/S ratio. The better gas-liquid interfacial areas were found in a wide range of L/S ratio at U

g
 = 0.082 m/s. The optimum conditions were found at U

g
 = 0.082 m/s and L/S ratio = 15–30 mL/g for the better gas-liquid interfacial area and the higher carbide slag conversion. The work provided the theoretical basis for the direct aqueous carbonation of the carbide slag and the operation condition optimization.
Maximum Work Rate Extractable from Energy Fluxes
Authors: Badescu Viorel
Published: December 2021

A general formalism is developed to evaluate the amount of work extractable from energy fluxes. It covers nonequilibrium cases when the concept of exergy is not relevant. The rate of work deficiency, which has been previously introduced as the total loss of exergy, is defined here as the total loss of work, which would have resulted if all the work were lost to the environment. New performance indicators are proposed. First, the work content factor gives the proportion of extractable work in a given amount of energy. Second, the work deficiency factor is a measure of the potential of improvement for the operation of energy conversion systems. Previous results reported in literature are particular cases of the general results obtained here. The formalism is used to evaluate the work rate extractable from the solar energy flux. Results are shown in cases where solar radiation interacts with materials without energy bandgap (metals) and with energy bandgaps (semiconductors), respectively.
Fast forward evolution in real time: the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern lineage B.1.1.7 in Saxony-Anhalt over a period of 5 months
Authors: Glaß Markus , Misiak Danny , Misiak Claudia , Müller Simon , Rausch Alexander , Angermann Katharina , Hoyer Mariann , Zabel Ramona , Kehlen Astrid , Möbius Beate , Weickert Jessica , Hüttelmaier Stefan , Karrasch Matthias
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Random mutations and recombinations are the main sources for the genetic diversity in SARS-CoV-2, with mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) receptor binding motif (RBM) representing a high potential for the emergence of new putative variants under investigation (VUI) or variants of concern (VOC). It is of importance, to measure the different circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages in order to establish a regional SARS-CoV-2 surveillance program. We established whole genome sequencing (WGS) of circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages in order to establish a regional SARS-CoV-2 surveillance program.

Methods

We established a surveillance program for circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages by performing whole genome sequencing (WGS) in SARS-CoV-2 isolates. Specimens were collected over a period of 5 months from three different sites. Specimens were collected from both patients suffering from COVID-19 and from outpatients without any clinical signs or symptoms; both in a tertiary university hospital, and two private laboratories within an urban area of eastern part Germany.

Results

Viral WGS from the 364 respiratory specimens with positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR comprised 16 different SARS-CoV-2 lineages. The majority of the obtained sequences (252/364=69%) was assigned to the variant of concern (VOC) Alpha (B.1.1.7). This variant first appeared in February in our samples and quickly became the dominant virus variant. All SNP PCR results could be verified using WGS. Other VOCs found in our cohort were Beta (B.1.351, n=2) and Delta (B.1.617.2, n=1).

Conclusions

Lineage analysis revealed 16 different virus variants among 364 respiratory samples analyzed by WGS. The number of distinct lineages dramatically decreased over time in leaving only few variants, in particular, the VOC Alpha or B.1.1.7. By closer inspection of point mutations, we found several distinct mutations of the viral spike protein that were reported to increase affinity or enable immune escape. Within a study period of only 5 months, SARS-CoV-2 lineage B.1.1.7 became the dominant lineage in our study population. This study emphasizes the benefit of SARS-CoV-2 testing by WGS. The increasing use of WGS to sequence the entire SARS-CoV-2 genome will reveal additional VUIs and VOCs with the potential to evade the immune system and, thus, will be a promising tool for data mining of relevant information for epidemiological studies. SARS-CoV-2 lineage monitoring using WGS is an important surveillance tool for early detection of upcoming new lineages of concern.
A quantitative investigation of the ellipsis of English relativizers
Authors: Liu Jinlu , Liu Haitao
Published: December 2021

Object-extracted relative clauses (ORCs) can occur in English either with a lexical complementizer or with no complementizer. This paper seeks to investigate constraints on when the complementizer is lexicalized in ORCs, within the theoretical framework of dependency grammar. In an analysis of one hundred ORCs, we find that: (a) the mean dependency distance (MDD) of lexicalized ORCs is longer significantly than that of non-lexicalized ORCs; (b) there is no significant difference in mean hierarchical distance (MHD) for lexicalized versus non-lexicalized ORCs; and (c) hierarchical number (HN) influences mean hierarchical distance significantly, and when HN is 1, the MHD of lexicalized ORCs is significantly longer than that of non-lexicalized ORCs. However, there are no significant difference when HN is 2–5, indicating that HN = 1 may be a key point in the ellipsis of relativizers.
Means Paternalism and the Problem of Indeterminacy
Authors: Brännmark Johan
Published: December 2021

Many contemporary defenders of paternalist interventions favor a version of paternalism focused on how people often choose the wrong means given their own ends. This idea is typically justified by empirical results in psychology and behavioral economics. To the extent that paternalist interventions can then target the promotion of goals that can be said to be our own, such interventions are prima facie less problematic. One version of this argument starts from the idea that it is meaningful to ascribe to us preferences that we would have if were fully rational, informed and in control over our actions. It is argued here, however, that the very body of empirical results that means paternalists typically rely on also undermines this idea as a robust enough notion. A more modest approach to paternalist interventions, on which such policies are understood as enmeshed with welfare-state policies promoting certain primary goods, is then proposed instead.
Development of mucoadhesive thiomeric chitosan nanoparticles for the targeted ocular delivery of vancomycin against Staphylococcus aureus resistant strains
Authors: Jahan Faryal , Zaman Shahiq uz , Akhtar Sohail , Arshad Rabia , Ibrahim Ibrahim Muhammad , Shahnaz Gul , Rahdar Abbas , Pandey Sadanand
Published: December 2021

This study aims to formulate mucoadhesive vancomycin loaded thiolated chitosan (TCS) nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are mucoadhesive and enhance the retention of the drug at the ocular site. For this purpose, TCS loaded vancomycin nanoparticles were prepared by the ion-gelation method and were characterized for their size, shape, polydispersity index, mucoadhesion, cellular uptake and anti-inflammatory activity. The average size of the synthesized nanoparticles was found to be 288 nm with positive zeta potential. Moreover, 85% vancomycin was successfully encapsulated in TCS nanoparticles by using this method. A 2-fold increase in mucoadhesion was found as compared to non-thiolated vancomycin formulation (p < 0.05). Zone of inhibition of vancomycin loaded TCS was also significantly improved compared to non-thiolated chitosan nanoparticles and vancomycin alone. In-vivo anti-inflammatory evaluation via histopathology resulted in ocular healing. Based on the results, it is inferred that TCS nanoparticles are a promising drug delivery carrier system for ocular delivery of vancomycin.
Fleabag’s Pedagogy of the Gimmick
Authors: Jaarsma Ada S.
Published: December 2021

As a work of art, the show Fleabag prompts differing kinds of judgements by critics. But as a project that reflects life in capitalist society, its gimmickry models the existentially fraught dynamics of despair. Informed by Sianne Ngai’s Theory of the Gimmick, this article explores three sets of gimmicks in relation to despair, where each holds differing pedagogical stakes for viewers: being alone; being a bad feminist; being smitten with a priest. Gimmickry, as a technique within the show, puts viewers on the hook for judging gimmicks as wonders or tricks. Gimmickry as an object of criticism, in turn, brings into view the political and existential significance of Fleabag for viewers.
Review of potential flow solutions for velocity and shape of long isolated bubbles in vertical pipes
Authors: Boucher Alexandre , Belt Roel , Liné Alain
Published: December 2021

The motion of elongated gas bubbles in vertical pipes has been studied extensively over the past century. A number of empirical and numerical correlations have emerged out of this curiosity; amongst them, analytical solutions have been proposed. A review of the major results and resolution methods based on a potential flow theory approach is presented in this article. The governing equations of a single elongated gas bubble rising in a stagnant or moving liquid are given in the potential flow formalism. Two different resolution methods (the power series method and the total derivative method) are studied in detail. The results (velocity and shape) are investigated with respect to the surface tension effect. The use of a new multi-objective solver coupled with the total derivative method improves the research of solutions and demonstrates its validity for determining the bubble velocity. This review aims to highlight the power of analytical tools, resolution methods and their associated limitations behind often well-known and wide-spread results in the literature.
BESLENMEDE FARKINDALIK
Authors: SAYGI Yaşar Birol , SAYGI Irmak
Published: December 2021

Farkındalık, kişinin mevcut deneyimine tam dikkat ve farkındalık getirme kapasitesidir. Beslenmede farkındalık yemek seçimine ve yemek yeme deneyimine dikkat getirir. Bugün, farkındalık ve buna yardımcı teknikler günlük hayattaki binlerce insanın depresyon, kronik kaygı gibi klinik problemlerin yanında problem çözme, duygu regülasyonu gibi sıklıkla karşılaşılan ruhsal ve bilişsel sorunlarla baş etmesine yardımcı olarak kişilerin daha ana odaklı ve bilinçli şekilde yaşamasına yardımcı olmuştur. Yemek insanoğlunun yaşamını sürdürmesi için gereken en temel unsurlardan biridir ve beslenme bütün canlılar için günlük rutinin ayrılmaz bir parçasıdır. Bu bağlamda da farkındalık durumunun beslenmeyi etkilemesi, aynı şekilde beslenmenin farkındalığı arttıracak tekniklerde kullanılabilmesi kaçınılmazdır. Buna bağlı ortaya çıkabilecek sorular beslenmede farkındalığın kökeni, kişi üzerinde etkileri ve uygulamalarını kapsamaktadır. Söz konusu çalışma güncel verilerle bu bağlamı ve oluşabilecek soruları aydınlatmayı amaçlamıştır.
Phage Therapy
Authors: Azeredo Joana , Pirnay Jean-Paul , Pires Diana P. , Kutateladze Mzia , Dabrowska Krystyna , Lavigne Rob , Blasdel Bob
Published: December 2021

Phage therapy refers to the use of bacteriophages (phages - bacterial viruses) as therapeutic agents against infectious bacterial diseases. This therapeutic approach emerged in the beginning of the 20th century but was progressively replaced by the use of antibiotics in most parts of the world after the second world war. More recently however, the alarming rise of multidrug-resistant bacteria and the consequent need for antibiotic alternatives has renewed interest in phages as antimicrobial agents. Several scientific, technological and regulatory advances have supported the credibility of a second revolution in phage therapy. Nevertheless, phage therapy still faces many challenges that include: i) the need to increase phage collections from reference phage banks; ii) the development of efficient phage screening methods for the fast identification of the therapeutic phage(s); iii) the establishment of efficient phage therapy strategies to tackle infectious biofilms; iv) the validation of feasible phage production protocols that assure quality and safety of phage preparations; and (v) the guarantee of stability of phage preparations during manufacturing, storage and transport. Moreover, current maladapted regulatory structures represent a significant hurdle for potential commercialization of phage therapeutics. This article describes the past and current status of phage therapy and presents the most recent advances in this domain.
Delirium in Acute Poisoning with 1,4-Butanediol and Its Correction
Authors: Sinenchenko A. G. , Batotsyrenov Ch. B. , Lodyagin A. N. , Sinenchenko G. I. , Kovalenko A. L.
Published: December 2021

Delirium complicating regular use of psychoactive substances remains one of the major issues of critical care, toxicology, and psychiatry. However, the pathogenetic mechanisms of delirium development in patients with 1,4-butanediol poisoning have been poorly studied until now.The aim of the study was to reveal specific patterns of delirium in patients with 1,4-butanediol poisoning as well as to study the changes in systemic hemodynamic parameters, respiratory function, and body fluid compartments during the treatment.Material and methods. The study was prospective and treatment-randomized. Forty-eight male patients aged 20 to 45 years with delirium and acute 1,4-butanediol poisoning were enrolled. Of them, 24 patients were administered with succinate-containing drug 40 ml daily, 24 patients received standard treatment without antihypoxic agents. We studied the evolution of delirium, changes in anaerobic metabolism parameters, systemic hemodynamics, respiratory function, and the volume of fluid compartments. Impedance measurement method adjusted for interference was used in the study.Results. At the «peak» of delirium (days 1–3), the hyperdynamic circulation, increased systemic arterial tone, stroke output, respiratory function parameters, and metabolic lactate acidosis were recorded. A decrease in total fluid volume and extracellular fluid volume was clearly observed during day 1 of intoxication delirium along with increased permeability of cell membranes. On day 3 of delirium, a decrease in intracellular fluid volume and increase in extracellular fluid volume were noted. After the cytoflavin administration, shorter delirium duration (7.5 [6; 8] days), more rapid correction of lactate acidosis, stabilization of respiratory parameters and stabilization of cell membrane permeability by day 5 were found. In the control group, delirium persisted for up to 14 [11; 15] days (z=-5.9; P=0.00011) with more frequent development of complications such as nosocomial pneumonia (χ2=8.4, P<0.001).Conclusion. The severity of delirium in acute poisoning with 1,4-butanediol was associated with metabolic lactate acidosis, changes in systemic hemodynamics and pulmonary function. A positive effect of adjunctive antihypoxic therapy with succinate-containing agent on cardio-respiratory parameters, cell membrane permeability, water balance due to elimination of tissue hypoxia and prompt switching to tissue aerobic metabolism has been found.
Observations about Lithuanian state-level maturity examination in mathematics
Authors: Karikovas Erikas , Miežys Vytautas
Published: December 2021

The article presents several observations about the examination papers of the state-level Maturity Examinations in Mathematics in the years 2014–2021 in Lithuania. Some inaccuracies were observed in the appendix of the paper titled ``Mathematical formulas'', in the wordings of the problems. Also the issue of proof problems in the examination is discussed. The purpose of these observations is to draw attention to areas for improvement in the examination system. The article presents the subjective opinion of the authors.
Peculiarities of the influence of mitochondrial ATP-dependent K+ channels activation on the function of external respiration under experimental pneumonia
Authors:   Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology NAC of Ukrain, Kyiv, Ukraine, Tsapenko P.K. , Shapovalova A.S. ,   Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology NAC of Ukrain, Kyiv, Ukraine, Timchenko О.G. ,   Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Golovko A.N. ,   Kyiv City Medical Special College, Kyiv, Ukraine, Rozova E.V. ,   Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology NAC of Ukrain, Kyiv, Ukraine, Portnichenko A.G. ,   Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology NAC of Ukrain, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2021

The studies were performed on male Wistar rats weighing 250-270 with experimental pneumonia (EP) induced by the method of A.M. Kulik. The animals were divided into the following groups: 1 – control; 2 - experimental pneumonia; 3 (first experimental group) - animals, which in parallel with the simulation of pneumonia were intraperitoneally administered uridine at a dose of 0.3 mg/100 g of body weight (daily within 1 week); 4 (second experimental group) - animals in which uridine was administered daily starting from day 4 (at the peak of pneumonia). Animals with EP were examined at 5th (n = 10), 9th (n = 8) and 12th (n = 6) days of the disease development, as well as 1 (n = 5) and 2 (n = 5) months after EP modeling. It was shown that in the first experimental group on the 5th day of EP development, an isoventilator restructuring of respiration was observed. In this group, from day 12 to the end of the study, there was a stenoventilator restructuring of breathing, which was characterized by an increase in tidal volume, alveolar ventilation, oxygen consumption and, accordingly, an increase in oxygen extraction from the alveoli and in the oxygen effect of the respiratory cycle. It can be assumed that in this group, an increase in the intensity of metabolism is provided by the effective activity of the respiratory system. In the second experimental group, isoventilator changes in respiration were observed with a gradual decrease in oxygen consumption and other indicators of the respiratory system efficiency. After 2 months, these changes became significant. Thus, we can talk about significant differences in the effect of uridine on the function of external respiration (i.e., apparently, on the activity of the mitochondrial ATP-dependent K+ channel) during EP, which depended on the period of onset of uridine administration. Application of uridine immediately (1st experimental group) looks more effective and even has a stimulating effect on the respiratory function over a long period of experiment. The administration of uridine starting from the 4 partially normalizes the respiration parameters. However, after 1 month there is a depression of the functions of the respiratory system, which, probably, may further worsen. The reasons for the differences in the identified dynamics require further investigation.
LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE-INDUCED SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE ENHANCES THE DEVELOPMENT OF OXIDATIVE-NITROSATIVE STRESS IN SALIVARY GLANDS OF RATS UNDER ALCOHOL DAMAGE
Authors:   Petro Mohyla Black Sea National University, Mykolayiv, Ukraine, Kozaeva R.S. , Klymenko M.O. ,   Petro Mohyla Black Sea National University, Mykolayiv, Ukraine, Kostenko V.О. ,   Poltava State Medical University, Ukraine
Published: December 2021

We addressed the role of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced systemic inflammatory response (SIR) in the development of oxidative-nitrosative stress in the salivary glands of rats under the influence of alcohol. Ethanol (40%) at the dose of 24 mg/kg was administered intraperitoneally (ip) twice per day for 14 days. SIR was induced by ip administration of LPS (Salmonella typhi) at the dose 0.4 mg/kg for 1 week followed by a weekly LPS administration for 7 weeks. We found that long-term administration of ethanol in the back- ground of LPS-induced SIR increased the circulating level of proinflammatory markers (TNFa, IL-6) and C-reactive protein and this increase exceeded the respective values when LPS and alcohol were administered separately. Under these conditions, in submandibular salivary glands, the superoxide anion production by mitochondria respiratory chain was increased by 25.9 and 30.5%, by microsomal monooxygenases and NO synthase by 19.0 and 27,1%, by phagocyte NADPH-oxidase by 29.5 and 30.0%. The activity of inducible NO-synthase increased by 15.5 and 83.6%, the concentration of peroxynitrites of alkali and alkali-earth metals elevated by 32.5 and 58, 3%, and S- nitrosothiols raised by 20.2 and 22.7%. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in α-amylase activity and the aquaporin-5 concentration that impairs water and protein excretion by salivary glands. We conclude that adminis- tration of ethanol in the background of LPS-induced SIR results in more pronounced development of oxidative- nitrosative stress in the submandibular salivary glands and more marked dysfunction compared to separate use of LPS and alcohol.
FEATURES STUDIES OF TRANSITION LAYERS IN SEMICONDUCTOR HETEROSYSTEMS
Authors:   V.  E. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics NAS of Ukraine, Shekhovtsov L. V.
Published: December 2021

Studies of spectral characteristics in Schottky's contact specimens showed that photemf generated by mono­chromatic light, according to the formation mechanism, has a predominantly lateral nature, that is, in a hetero­system there are at least two areas separated by a potential barrier along the interface, with different conductivity levels. The feature of the photoemf spectral characteristics is a variations its appearance when changing the thermal annealing temperature of the studied heterosystems. A significant characteristic and a small amplitude of the characteristic indicates the formation of a transition layer, relatively homogeneous and with insignificant, compared with the volume of GaAs, the doping concentration. If the spectral characteristic has one maximum and amplitude, which several times exceeds the amplitude of a significant characteristic, which means the formation of a transition layer in the Schottky contact depletion area with high conductivity, compared with a quasine-neutral region of a semiconductor. The distribution of lateral photoemf along the sample also has a significant character. In order to obtain the correct results relative to the heterosystem transition layer, it is necessary to measure spectral acute characteristics at a distance from the point change sign of the emf that several times the diffusion length of non-equilibrium charge carriers in GaAs. The problem of the formation of a metal-semiconductor contact and other heterosystems accompanied by the occurrence of heterogeneous transition layers, always paid attention. The use of the proposed photovoltaic method allows to establish the degree of homogeneity of semiconductor layers, components of the structure and predict the redistribution of current density flowing through the physical scope of the device.
FEATURES OF SELECTING DIELECTRIC LAYERS FOR ELECTROLUMINESCENT STRUCTURES
Authors:   V.  E. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics NAS of Ukraine, Boiko V. G.
Published: December 2021

The paper considers an equivalent scheme of a thin-film electroluminescent emitter (TFELE), taking into account dielectric leaks, and proposes a criterion for the optimal choice of a dielectric in the structure to increase its efficiency. A calculation method is proposed for the optimal choice of material for dielectric films in an electroluminescent structure, taking into account their dielectric loss tangent. The algorithm for optimizing the parameters is based on the method of pairwise comparison of two dielectrics, provided that the charge flowing through the structure is constant or increased. The calculated data for materials are given in the form of a table according to the sequence of deterioration of their characteristics. The most attractive of the materials considered are PbTiO3, Ta2O5, Y2O3, as well as improved ceramics, which is confirmed by experiment. The possibility of applying the proposed model to explain the dependence of the luminosity of electroluminescent emitters on their excitation voltage is shown. A comparative analysis of the results of the calculation and experiment of the dependence of brightness on the applied voltage (B-V) for three types of TFELE based on a luminescent layer ZnS : Mn (0.5%) with a thickness of 0.6 μm, placed between two dielectric layers with a thickness of about 0.3- 0.35 μm with Ta2O5, Sm2O3 and Y2O3, respectively. It is established that the threshold luminescence excitation voltage correlates with the value of εE, and the maximum brightness with the value of εE / tg (δ). The table also shows the calculated characteristics of NdAlO3 and AlN films deposited by high-frequency magnetron sputtering. Higher brightness values can be expected from electroluminescent structures with such a dielectric than from structures with dielectric films with Sm2O3 and Y2O3. The results of such studies are presented in the form of a graph and table. This method can find practical application in the development of new materials and technologies for their production.
Socio-economic outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic for Ukraine
Authors: Butkaliuk Vitalina
Published: December 2021

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the causes and consequences of both human and socio-economic losses incurred by Ukraine as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions introduced by the government in order to prevent its spread. The author's attention is primarily focused on exploring the population's social well-being, as well as examining changes in the quality of Ukrainians' lives during the pandemic. The study of the above-mentioned issues is complemented by a sociological inquiry into public views on the coronavirus problem, efficacy of the authorities' actions aimed at combating the pandemic, as well as the essence and real effectiveness of socio-economic policy pursued by the Ukrainian government in present-day conditions. Drawing upon a systemic analysis, the author argues that the ongoing socio-economic crisis in Ukraine, along with vaccine crunch, stems mainly from neoliberal policies implemented by the national government over the past three decades. The article argues the thesis about the transformation of the crisis of confidence, which has been fixed for a long time in Ukraine, into a crisis of vaccination, which today threatens with large humanitarian, economic and geopolitical losses. The research findings allow concluding that the COVID-19 pandemic acted as another trigger for the crisis, thereby intensifying and exacerbating the problems that had already existed in the national economy. The author's arguments are bolstered by a vast array of domestic and foreign statistical data, along with the results of surveys conducted by the Institute of Sociology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (1994–2020), «Research & Branding Group» (2020–2021), as well as other Ukrainian sociological centers.
Mixed Symmetry States in 92Zr and 94Mo Nuclei
Authors: Abood S.N. , Al-Rawi A.A. , Najam L.A. , Al-Jomaily F.M.
Published: December 2021

Mixed-symmetry states of 92Zr and 94Mo isotopes are investigated with the use of the collective models, Interacting Boson Model-2 (IBM-2) and Quasiparticle Phonon Model (QPM). The energy spectra and electromagnetic transition rates for these isotopes are calculated. The results of IBM-2 and QPM are compared with available experimental data. We have obtained a satisfactory agreement, and IBM-2 gives a better description. In these isotopes, we observe a few states having a mixed symmetry such as 2+2, 2+3, 3+1, and 1+s. It is found that these isotopes have a vibrational shape corresponding to the U(5) symmetry.
Dynamics of the Cavity Radiation of a Correlated Emis-sion Laser Coupled to a Two-Mode Thermal Reservoir
Authors: Alemu B. , Gashu Ch. , Mosisa E. , Abebe T.
Published: December 2021

In this paper, the quantum properties of the cavity light beam produced by a coherently driven nondegenerate three-level laser with an open cavity and coupled to a two-mode thermal reservoir are thoroughly analyzed. We have carried out our analysis by putting the noise operators associated with the thermal reservoir in normal order. Here we discussed more the effect of thermal light and the spontaneous emission on the dynamics of the quantum processes. It is found that the maximum degree of intracavity squeezing 43% below the vacuum-state level. Moreover, the presence of thermal light leads to decrease the degree of entanglement.
Оптимізація процесу отримання низьких температур в універсальних рідинно-протічних кріостатах
Authors: Zharkov I.P. , Safronov V.V. , Khodunov V.O. , Konoval V.M. , Palamarchuk I.P. , Selivanov O.V. , Solonetsky A.G.
Published: December 2021

З метою швидкого i економного досягнення низьких температур розглянуто процес їх отримання у вiтчизняних унiверсальних рiдинно-протiчних крiостатах з використанням рiдкого гелiю та азоту. Для контролю рiвня крiоагента розроблено оригiнальну ємнiсну систему вимiрювання рiвня рiзних типiв рiдкого крiоагента, яка немає аналогiв у свiтi. Експериментально показано, що найоптимальнiшим i найекономнiшим шляхом отриманння низьких температур є вiдкачка парiв крiоагента безпосередньо з робочої камери крiостата.
Модифікація електронних властивостей надтонких плівок β-Ga2O3 механічними впливами
Authors: Balabai R.M. , Zdeschits V.M. , Naumenko M.V.
Published: December 2021

Методами функцiонала електронної густини та псевдопотенцiалу, iз перших принципiв, з використанням авторського програмного коду отримано просторовi розподiли густини валентних електронiв, знайдено густини електронних станiв, ширини заборонених зон у надтонких плiвках β-Ga2O3 з рiзними вiльними поверхнями пiд впливом механiчного стиснення. Показано, що товщина плiвки β-Ga2O3, тип вiльної поверхнi плiвки та механiчна дiя стиснення дозволяють керувати провiдними властивостями надтонких плiвок β-Ga2O3.
Investigation of Traps in AlGaN/GaN Heterostructures by Ultrasonic Vibrations
Authors: Kaliuzhnyi V.V. , Liubchenko O.I. , Tymochko M.D. , Olikh Y.M. , Kladko V.P. , Belyaev A.E.
Published: December 2021

A method of dynamic deformations has been proposed as a useful informative tool in the characterization of transportation properties of a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in AlGaN/GaN heterostructures. It is found that the exposing of a sample to ultrasonic vibrations results in the persistent acousto-conductivity (PAC) which was observed up to room temperatures. The PAC behaves itself like persistent photoconductivity (PPC), and the carrier density in the 2DEG channel is primarily contributed by the transfer of electrons excited from traps (like DX centers) as a result of their reconstruction under the ultrasonic loading.
Dryer design parameters and parts specifications for an industrial scale bagasse drying system
Authors: Wheatley Greg , Situ Rong , Dwyer Jarrod , Larsen Alexander , Islam Rubel Robiul
Published: December 2021

The sugar industry is an ideal sector for electricity cogeneration due to a large amount of burnable bagasse produce as a by-product. Bagasse produced in the sugar industry always consists of moisture affecting the efficiency of a boiler in the cogeneration plant. In our case study, a cogeneration plant run by bagasse burning found with bagasse moisture problem and suffocating with low power generation for the last few years. The boiler efficiency per tonne of bagasse is currently lower than optimal due to the substantial percentage of water present in the bagasse. A bagasse dryer design for this industry can improve the efficiency of a boiler as well as the cogeneration plant. In this paper, a pneumatic bagasse drying system is proposed to reduce the moisture content of bagasse from 48% to 30%. This work provides a full analysis of bagasse dryer design parameters, including specifications for dryer system components, such as feeders, fan, drying tube, and cyclone. The total bagasse drying system proposed is expected to be fitted within a 6 × 6 × 25 m space to dry 60 tph of bagasse, reducing the moisture content from 48% to 30%, in full compliance with all relevant Australian and company standards.