bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF THE SURFACE WATER CONDITION OF THE DNIPRO RIVER FROM THE WATER SUPPLY AREAS OF ZAPORIZHZHIA CITY FOR SELECTED INDICATORS OF THE SALT COMPOSITION BLOCK
Authors: Троїцька О. , Belokon K. , Manidina E , Ryzkov V.
Published: September 2021

Environmental assessment of current state of the Dnieper surface water from Zaporozhye areas water abstractions based on land surface water quality qualification by salt composition is carried out. Quality degradation of the Dnieper surface water by ion composition is discovered with analysis. Ecological condition of the surface water is defines as ”mediocre” and level of contamination is characterized as mildly polluted”.
ANALYSIS AND ASSESSMENT OF THE LEVEL OF ATMOSPHERIC AIR POLLUTION IN ZAPORIZHZHYA
Authors: Belokon K. , Pirogova I.
Published: September 2021

One of the regions of Ukraine, which is subject to significant man-made impacts on the atmospheric air, is the city of Zaporizhzhya. The paper presents the results of assessing the quality of atmospheric air based on the calculation of the air pollution index and the integrated air pollution index of the city of Zaporizhzhya. For the assessment, the data of long-term observations at the stationary posts of the city for 2016—2020 were used for the main pollutants. A list of the main pollutants (formaldehyde, dust, carbon monoxide, phenol, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide) and the contribution of each of them to the general level of atmospheric pollution has been determined.

The calculations of air pollution indices were carried out for the average daily concentrations of substances for each observation post in Zaporizhzhya for the study period 2016—2020. The calculation of the air pollution indices for the posts was carried out for all concentrations of the investigated substances, except for hydrogen sulfide due to the lack of data for it. The highest values of the indices are observed in 2017 and 2019, the lowest — in 2020. Over the past year, there has been a tendency towards a slight decrease in the level of air pollution by pollutants. The highest values of indices exceeding 1 are noted for substances such as dust, nitrogen dioxide, nitrogen oxide, phenol and formaldehyde.

Calculations of the integrated index of atmospheric pollution at posts showed their heterogeneity, the list of measured substances is not unified for all posts. Formaldehyde, nitrogen oxides, phenol and dust make the largest contribution to the formation of the integrated air pollution index. Environmental monitoring in the city of Zaporizhzhya does not include measurements of hazardous toxicants, the presence of which is typical for large cities.

The highest level of the integrated air pollution index is observed at the posts located in the zone of influence of the main industrial site, and reaches values of 5,4—9,8, which corresponds to a high level. In other areas of the city, where there is industrial potential, observations are not carried out; it is impossible to assess the level of air quality according to the data of the hydrometeorological service.
Unsettling Memories of Japanese Migrant Sex Workers: Carceral Mobilities of the Transpacific Underground at the Turn of the 20thCentury
Authors: Yoshimizu Ayaka
Published: September 2021

Between 1908 and 1909 and in 1912, Vancouver-based journalist Shohei Osada published a two-part series entitled “Exploration of Devil Caves” in a local Japanese language newspaper, detailing the lives of Japanese migrants involved in the sex trade in Canada. The series showcases the presence of underground networks that extended across the continent and the Pacific, or what I call the “transpacific underground.” Many characters in Osada’s series are transient migrants, who did not settle in any one specific nation but continued moving on across multiple borders seeking new opportunities, or sometimes, last resort for survival. By reading Osada’s writing closely, this article develops the notion of the transpacific underground as method to engage the history of migrant sex workers and understand it from a carceral space of migration regulated by multiple imperial and colonial forces, gendered nationalist ideologies, and human trafficking, making migrant women’s movements forced but also transgressive and open-ended.
Letting Madness In: Toward Hospitality Without Incarceration
Authors: Soros Erin
Published: September 2021

Inspired by Of Hospitality, which consists of two texts on facing pages by Anne Dufourmantelle and Jacques Derrida, Erin Soros and Richard Ingram collaborated to hone in on an aporia in Dufourmantelle and Derrida’s meditation on hospitality. The writing of this collaborative work took place through hospitality: the authors invited each other into their homes, and altered the texts of the host, rendering thresholds porous and troubling the ways in which madness is circumscribed and contained. Why are some forms of asylum considered and others only to be passed over? In the present article, Erin Soros uses Derrida to critique the madness of Ontario and British Columbia’s mental health acts, in which rights are stripped from the Mad through a system of carceral psychiatry and a logic that is haunted by its own madness. In a companion text (to be published in TOPIA 44), Richard Ingram focuses on two aspects of Derrida’s topology of hospitality, addressing the acts of letting madness into a dwelling and letting madness into the mind.
(Un)Becoming the Offender: Marginality in Punishment Processes, “Offender” as Permanent Identity
Authors: Kish Nyki
Published: September 2021

This article chronicles the invisible crisis in the Canadian criminal justice system that has come to rely upon critically marginalized populations in the composition of who is punished, and who is deemed punishable. Drawing on auto-ethnography, intersectionality and discourse analysis, and case studies, this article makes visible this process, from suspicion to parole, the filters which move people with more privilege away from an increasingly permanent offender identity and move people with more marginality towards it. These filters are termed “intersectional filtering points”: their disparate impact emphasized to illustrate how disadvantaged people become offenders. Fundamental neoliberal logics show how this crisis persists invisibly: marginalized people who become offenders are, therefore, seen as archetypal risk groups whose characters require regulating, undermining the widely held notion of a criminal justice system which impartially responds to illegal acts.
Evaluation of Nursing Students’ Perceptions about Classroom Climate and the Associated Factors
Authors: KURT Yeter , ÖZKOL KILINÇ Kadriye , ÖZTÜRK Havva
Published: September 2021

Classroom climate is a significant concept that influences both students' learning levels and their social and emotional development. Receiving an education in a positive classroom climate has a fostering effect on students’ development. Accordingly, the study aimed to evaluate the nursing students' perceptions of classroom climate and associated factors. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out with 417 volunteer students out of 786 students studying at the nursing department of a health sciences faculty of a university. The data were collected using the Information Form and the Classroom Climate Inventory and were analyzed with the number, percentage, mean, ANOVA, and t-test. According to students' perceptions, the classroom climate inventory total score was 50.43±15.37. Male students (t= -2.016; p=0.044), first and fourth-grade students (p<0.05), those who thought that instructors supported in-class collaboration (t=9.387; p=0.000), who felt a sense of belongingness to the class (t=10.061; p=0.000), who were satisfied with the basic vocational courses (t=6.871; p=0.000), and who evaluated the communication between students as positive (t=13.161; p=0.000) had statistically significantly higher scores in the classroom climate inventory. Students generally had average positive perceptions about classroom climate. However, the class climate perceptions of the following students were higher: male students, first and fourth grade students, those feeling satisfied with basic vocational courses, those who thought that instructors supported in-class collaboration, who felt a sense of belongingness to the classroom and who evaluated the communication among students as positive.
Modulatory Effects of L-Arginine on Methylxanthine-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats: A Differential Role for Nitric Oxide (NO)
Authors: Ray Arunabha , Shamsuzzaman Md , C. Joshi Jagdish , Gulati Kavita , Ray Arunabha
Published: September 2021

Methylxanthines are potent bronchodilators used in obstructive airway disease like COPD and bronchial asthma, but the narrow therapeutic index and resultant adverse effect profile have restricted their use. Novel beneficial effects and modes of action are now being proposed for these pharmacoeconomically viable agents. Cardiotoxicity is a prominent adverse effect of methylxanthone and thus we investigated possible mechanisms for such toxicity with an aim to devise ameliorative strategies for counteracting such undesirable effects. In view of the cardioprotective role of nitric oxide (NO) and NO mimetics, the present study investigated the possible modulatory role of L-arginine, a NO precursor, in theophylline induced cardiotoxicity in rats, with a view to exploring strategies for facilitating the safe use of this drug. The methylxanthine, aminophylline induced cardiotoxic effects like increased heart rat, raised mean BP, inverted T-waves and prolonged QTc interval (in ECG). These were accompanied by increased levels of cardiac biomarkers like Troponin-I, CPK-MB, and ADMA. Oxidative stress markers like MDA were elevated whereas, antioxidant defence markers like GSH and SOD were suppressed. Co-administration of L-arginine (with aminophylline) had dose-related effects on cardiac function (heart rate, mean BP, ECG changes) and cardiospecific biomarkers (TnI, CPK-MB, ADMA) - the lower dose being protective whereas the higher dose potentiating some of the cardiac effects and cardiospecific/oxidative stress biomarker levels. The results indicate a biphasic involvement of NO in the cardiotoxic effect of theophylline and suggests possible interactions of NO with reactive oxygen species during such modulations of cardiotoxicity.
Evaluasi Kebijakan Kepala Madrasah dalam Meningkatkan Profesionalitas Guru MAS Al- Manshuriyah
Authors: Tulipri Selamat , Hidayat Rahmat , Hamengkubuwono Hamengkubuwono , Warlizasusi Jumira
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to study the evaluation of the headmaster in improving the professionalism of MAS Al-Manshuriyah teachers. This research is a type of qualitative research consisting of research that produces descriptive data in the form of written or oral data from people and published. The form of the research is descriptive, that is the research conducted only to describe the state or status of a particular phenomenon. The results of the study, evaluation of the principal's policy in increasing the professionalism of teachers in carrying out their important tasks, appropriate policy considerations, will have an impact on improving the quality of teachers in carrying out their duties properly, but if the policies made are less precise, it will have an impact on improving the quality of teachers in carry out their duties properly. Conclusion, the principal's policy in increasing professional teachers in carrying out their duties  went well, but there are some things that need to be updated, as well as policies that can be carried out properly, namely giving appropriate approval, the role of school supervisors and deliberations in relation to changes policies in improving teacher professionalism in carrying out their main tasks and functions properly

Keywords: Policy Evaluation, Professionalism
Kontribusi Supervisi Kepala Madrasah dan Motivasi Kerja Guru terhadap Kinerja Mengajar
Authors: Effendi Taufik , Ifnaldi Ifnaldi , Yanto Murni , Warlizasusi Jumira
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the contribution of madrasah head supervision and teacher work motivation to teacher performance. This research uses quantitative methods, with data collection techniques using questionnaires, documentation and interviews, then data analysis techniques using correlational. The results of the study, the correlation coefficient between the supervision activity variable (X1) with the performance variable (Y) is 0.501 and the correlation coefficient between the motivation variable (X2) and the performance variable (Y) is 0.493, each greater than the value of r table in n 38 which is 0.325. Thus the three variables are positively correlated. In conclusion, there is a relationship between the contribution of madrasah head supervision and teacher work motivation on teacher teaching performance.

Keywords: Supervision of Madrasah Head, Work Motivation, Teaching Performance
Kinerja Guru Dipengaruhi oleh Kompetensi Guru dan Kepemimpinan Kepala Sekolah
Authors: Epa Epa
Published: September 2021

This study examines the optimization of teacher performance by measuring the effect of teacher competence and principal leadership on economic teacher performance. The method used is survey method and total sampling. The research subjects consisted of 55 high school economics teachers in the city of Tasikmalaya. Conclusion, teacher competence and principal leadership have a positive influence on teacher performance where the higher the teacher competence and the more effective the principal's leadership, it will improve the quality of teacher performance.

Keywords: Teacher Competence, Teacher Performance, Principal Leadership
Cochylimorpha razowskiana nom. n. for C. pallens (Kuznetzov, 1966) (Lepidoptera: Cochylidae)
Authors: Kuznetzov V.I.
Published: September 2021

Euxanthis pallens Lucas, 1954 and Stenodes pallens Kuznetzov, 1966, both placed now in the genus Cochylimorpha Razowski, 1960, are secondary homonyms. The name Cochylimorpha razowskiana nom. n. is proposed to replace the junior homonym.
WTO AGREEMENTS: WAYS OF INTERPRETATION
Authors: Yuliia TYSHCHENKO
Published: September 2021

Background. The most of the world’s trade relations are governed by uniform rules that form the legal basis of the WTO. Member states sometimes have different understanding of the content of their rights and obligations, which are in the WTO agreements. This gives rise to controversy between them. To reduce the number of disputes between states, they should use uniform ways of interpreting WTO agreements. Analysis of recent research and publications has revealed that the interpretation of WTO legal sources has not been the subject of a separate study, therefore, requires clarification. The aim of the article is to identify and theoretically comprehend the main ways of interpreting the WTO agreements. Materials and methods. The set of general scientific and special methods of scientific research is chosen as the methodological basis. Results. WTO law consists of legal norms and the general rules of interpretationof the theory of law are applied to clarify their meaning. The legal sources of the WTO are the sources of public international law. Therefore, for the interpretation of the norms of this organization, the methods of international law are primarily used. The main source of rules for the interpretation of international treaties is the 1969 Vienna Convention on Treaties. The Agreement on the Rules for the Settlement of Disputes specifies that the usual rules of interpretation of international law are applied to clarify the rules of WTO agreements. Thus, for the interpretation of WTO agreements, the rules enshrined in the Vienna Convention and other methods of interpretation used in international law are applied. Articles 31, 32 of the Convention provide for such methods of interpretation as textual, teleological interpretation, clarification of the meaning of the term of the contract by establishing the intentions of the participants and historical interpretation. It is worth adding to the list of ways of interpreting WTO law such general theoretical methods as logical, systematic, special legal interpretation, etc. Conclusion. So, the methods of interpretation of the WTO agreements include textual, teleological, historical interpretation, the interpretation of norms by clarifying the intentions of the parties to the treaty, as well as general theoretical methods of interpretation. Keywords: legal interpretation, methods of interpretation, textual, teleological, historical interpretation, intentions of the parties, WTO agreements.
PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF UKRAINIAN LABOR MIGRANTS IN EUROPE
Authors: Tamara KORTUKOVA
Published: September 2021

Background. Citizens of Ukraine are one of the largest groups of seasonal workers in the European Union. At the same time, Ukrainian migrant workers often suffer violations of their rights abroad. In this aspect, Ukraine has an urgent task to protect the rights of Ukrainian seasonal migrant workers abroad. For European Union, despite the economic crisis that has led to higher unemployment, there is an urgent need for seasonal workers in the EU Member States, due to the fact that seasonal work is generally not attractive for the EU labor market. The aim of the article is to determine the features of protection of the rights of Ukrainian seasonal migrant workers in the European Union. Materials and methods. The research is carried out on the basis of general and special research methods, in particular, such as: discourse and content analysis, system analysis method, induction and deduction method, historical-legal method, formal-legal method, comparative-legal method, and others. Results. Seasonal work is one of the types of temporary employment, which is limited to a certain period of time. In the European Union, seasonal work is not attractive to citizens of the European Union. In this regard, it should be noted that the Member States of the European Union have a long practice of attracting seasonal migrant workers to their labor market, which was especially intensified in the post-war period, characterized by labor shortages on the European continent, which led to this policy development. Today, with the onset of the global pandemic COVID-19 and the starting of lockdown, the European Union still needs seasonal migrant workers, especially in the agricultural sector, to perform seasonal work. In this area, the EU has developed supranational legislation, which was analyzed in the article. Conclusion. Given that Ukrainians are one of the largest groups of seasonal workers in the European Union, it is important for Ukraine to protect its citizens abroad, which, in particular, can be strengthened by signing bilateral agreements with EU Member States on employment and social protection of Ukrainian citizens; agreements on mutual employment of employees; agreementson employment and cooperation in the field of labor migration, etc. Keywords: labor migration; seasonal migration; the right to equal treatment; Seasonal Workers Directive; bilateral agreements on labor migration.
ETHICAL NORMSIN THE ACTIVITIES OF PUBLIC SERVICE ENTITIES
Authors: Mykola VESELOV , Pylyp YEPRYNTSEV
Published: September 2021

Background. The choice of the topic of the article is dictated by the presence of significant theoretical problems and the need to improve the understanding and legal definition of the principle and rules of ethical behaviorin the activities of public service entities in Ukraine. The aim of the article is to obtain new scientific results in the form of substantiated conclusions and proposals for solving current theoretical, applied and legal problems of determining the principle and rules of ethical behaviorin the activities of public service entities in Ukraine. Materials and methods. The empirical basis of the study were legal acts of legislation of Ukraine and some other countries, scientific works of other scholars in the field of administrative law. Thanks to a combination of general scientific and special methods of cognition it was possible to process the specified empirical material and to receive own scientific conclusions. Results. It is noted that there is no clear definition and common understanding of the concept of the principle of ethical conduct of public service entities in the Ukrainian legislation. It is stated that the normative consolidation of ethical norms for different categories of public service entities in Ukraine takes place mainly at the by-law level and has a sectoral nature. It is established that the terms «principle of ethical conduct» and «rules of ethical conduct» are interdependent concepts, but not identical. Conclusion. According to the results of the research, the author’s vision is given to the concepts of «principle of ethical behavior» and «rules of ethical behavior». It is emphasized that the provisions of the Codes of Ethics or the Code of Ethics should also include requirements that would regulate the conduct of the public service entity in the off-hours. The necessity of unification of basic principles of public service in profile laws is substantiated, which should be reflected in general provisions of branch Rules and Codes of ethics together with special norms which will embody specificity of this or that public activity. Keywords: public service, the subject of public service, principles of activity, ethical behavior, rules, norms.
WOMEN’S POLITICAL RIGHTS IN A SOCIETY OF GENDER EQUALITY
Authors: Nataliia BONDARENKO
Published: September 2021

Background. In the XX-XXI centuries politics is becoming an increasingly professional field of activity, to which more and more women are joining. Insufficient representation of the latter in state bodies gives grounds for doubts about the democracy of the state system, which determined the relevance of the study. Analysis of recent research and publications. Various aspects of the position of woman in Ukrainian politics have been studied by T. Martseniuk, Ya. Radysh, V. Smachylo, and G. Yurovska, but today we are required to carry out a comprehensive legal analysis of the formation of a gender equality society in Ukraine. The aim of the article is to study national legislation on the issue of gender equality in the political sphere, taking into account international standards; analysis of mechanisms for increasing the number of women in politics based on the generalization of the experience of developed democracies. Materials and methods, that were used - dialectical, comparative analysis, systemic, formal and legal scientific methods and principles. Results. An important aspect of the struggle of women for their political rights was that the latest constitutions of the states enshrined the principle of equality of citizens, including in the electoral process, regardless of gender, race and political views. Analysis of the political experience of social democracies has shown that the participation of women deputies in the work of parliaments and other representative institutions is extremely important and effective for society as a whole, because they focus on health care, upbringing, education, social protection of population, etc. In Ukraine, equality between woman and man has been established de jure, but gender stereotypes regarding the distribution of roles continue to dominate society and consciousness. The most successful international practices include the creation of a parliament on the basis of gender equality through the application of: positive actions for the implementation of gender quotas; creation of state institutions to monitor the observance of equal rights for women and men; implementation of gender expertise of bills. Conclusion. Our study has improved the thesis that in Ukraine there is an objective need to change the patriarchal type of political culture. In this regard, we have proposed measures that can increase the status of Ukrainian woman in politics: to further monitor national legislation; introduce national mechanisms to ensure the representation of women in government; create the necessary economic conditions for the implementation of women's political activity. Keywords: gender equality, democracy, parliamentarism, women’s political rights.
CubeSat formation architecture for small space debris surveillance and orbit determination
Authors: Afanasev Anton , Biktimirov Shamil
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Satellites which face space debris cannot track it throughout the whole orbit due to natural limitations of their optical sensors, sush as field of view, Earth occultation, or solar illumination. Besides, the time of continuous observations is usually very short. Therefore, we are trying to offer the most effective configuration of optical sensors in order to provide short-arc tracking of a target piece of debris, using a scalable Extended Information Filter. Purpose: The best scenario for short-arc tracking of a space debris orbit using multipoint optical sensors. Results: We have found optimal configurations for groups of satellites with optical sensors which move along a sun-synchronous orbit.  Debris orbit determination using an Extended Information Filter and measurements from multipoint sensors was simulated, and mean squared errors of the target's position were calculated. Based on the simulation results for variouos configurations, inter-satellite distances and measurement time, the most reliable scenario (four satellites in tetrahedral configuration) was found and recommended for practical use in short-arc debris tracking.
Scenario model of intelligent decision support based user digital life models
Authors: Smirnov Alexander , Levashova Tatiana
Published: September 2021

Introduction. In the decision support domain, the practice of using information from user digital traces has not been widespread so far. Earlier, the authors of this paper developed a conceptual framework of intelligent decision support based on user digital life models that was aimed at recommending decisions using information from the user digital traces. The present research is aiming at the development of a scenario model that implements this framework. Purpose: the development of a scenario model of intelligent decision support based on user digital life models and an approach to grouping users with similar preferences and decision-making behaviours. Results: A scenario model of intelligent decision support based on user digital life models has been developed. The model is intended to recommend to the user decisions based on the knowledge about the user decision-maker type, decision support problem, and problem domain. The scenario model enables to process incompletely formulated problems due to taking into account the preferences of users who have preferences and decision-making behaviour similar to the active user. An approach to grouping users with similar preferences and decision-making behaviours has been proposed. The approach enables to group users with similar preferences and decision-making behaviours based on the information about user behavioural segments that exist in various domains, behavioural segmentation rules, and user actions represented in their digital life models. Practical relevance: the research results are beneficial for the development of advanced recommendation systems expected to tracking digital traces.
Evaluation of the union bound for the decoding error probability using characteristic functions
Authors: Trofimov Andrey , Taubin Feliks
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Since the exact value of a decoding error probability cannot usually be calculated, an upper bounding technique is used. The standard approach for obtaining the upper bound on the maximum likelihood decoding error probability is based on the use of the union bound and the Chernoff bound, as well as its modifications. For many situations, this approach is not accurate enough. Purpose: Development of a method for exact calculation of the union bound for a decoding error probability, for a wide class of codes and memoryless channels. Methods: Use of characteristic functions of logarithm of the likelihood ratio for an arbitrary pair of codewords, trellis representation of codes and numerical integration. Results: The resulting exact union bound on the decoding error probability is based on a combination of the use of characteristic functions and the product of trellis diagrams for the code, which allows to obtain the final expression in an integral form convenient for numerical integration. An important feature of the proposed procedure is that it allows one to accurately calculate the union bound using an approach based on the use of transfer (generating) functions. With this approach, the edge labels in the product of trellis diagrams for the code are replaced by their corresponding characteristic functions. The final expression allows, using the standard methods of numerical integration, to calculate the values of the union bound on the decoding error probability with the required accuracy. Practical relevance: The results presented in this article make it possible to significantly improve the accuracy of the bound of the error decoding probability, and thereby increase the efficiency of technical solutions in the design of specific coding schemes for a wide class of communication channels.
COMPOSITION OF SLICE ENTIRE FUNCTIONS AND BOUNDED L-INDEX IN DIRECTION
Authors: Skaskiv O. , Bandura A.
Published: September 2021

We study the following question: "Let $f: \mathbb{C}\to \mathbb{C}$ be an entire function of bounded $l$-index, $\Phi: \mathbb{C}^n\to \mathbb{C}$ be a slice entire function, $n\geq2,$ $l:\mathbb{C}\to \mathbb{R}_+$ be a continuous function.We study the following question: "Let $f: \mathbb{C}\to \mathbb{C}$ be an entire function of bounded $l$-index, $\Phi: \mathbb{C}^n\to \mathbb{C}$ be a slice entire function, $n\geq2,$ $l:\mathbb{C}\to \mathbb{R}_+$ be a continuous function.What is a  positive continuous function $L:\mathbb{C}^n\to \mathbb{R}_+$ and a direction $\mathbf{b}\in\mathbb{C}^n\setminus\{\mathbf{0}\}$  such that the composite function $f(\Phi(z))$ has bounded $L$-index in the direction~$\mathbf{b}$?". In the present paper, early known results on boundedness of $L$-index in direction for the composition of entire functions$f(\Phi(z))$ are generalized to the case where  $\Phi: \mathbb{C}^n\to \mathbb{C}$ is a slice entire function, i.e.it is an entire function on a complex line $\{z^0+t\mathbf{b}: t\in\mathbb{C}\}$ for any $z^0\in\mathbb{C}^n$ andfor a given direction $\mathbf{b}\in\mathbb{C}^n\setminus\{\mathbf{0}\}$.These slice entire functions are not joint holomorphic in the general case. For~example, it allows consideration of functions which are holomorphic in variable $z_1$ and  continuous in variable $z_2.$
Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) Extract Reduce Malondialdehyde Levels and Prevent Aortic Endothelial Cell Decline in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Haryati Ni Putu Sri , Kurniawati Elisa Danik , Lestary Tanti Tri , Norahmawati Eviana , Wiyasa I Wayan Arsana , Nur Hidayati Dwi Yuni , Nurseta Tatit
Published: September 2021

Estrogen has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, but its levels decrease in postmenopausal women who can trigger oxidative stress. One of the most damaging effects of ROS is lipid peroxidation, and the end product is Malondialdehyde (MDA). Similarly, aging endothelium has increased oxidative stress and endothelial cell sensitivity to apoptosis. This study aimed to determine the effect of cowpea extract on serum MDA levels, aortic endothelial cell counts, and brain MDA levels in the ovariectomy model. Cowpea extract can be used as an alternative to prevent and overcome the effects that occur during menopause, such as cardiovascular problems, decreased bone mineral density, and dementia. The study used 15-month-old female Rattus norvegicus, divided into six groups (OVX, SHAM, OVX+estradiol, OVX+Vu 1.25; 2.5; and 5 mg/kg BW/day). Serum and brain MDA levels were examined by ELISA method, while the number of aortic endothelial cells were examined on histopathological preparations with Hematoxylin & Eosin (HE) staining. The mean value of serum and brain MDA levels decreased with an increase in the dose given (p-value 0.016). The mean value of aortic endothelial cells between the dose groups did not significantly differ. However, the mean value showed an increasing trend as the dose of cowpea extract was given. The results of this study indicate that the extract of cowpea has the potential as an antioxidant to reduce serum and brain MDA levels, prevent a decrease in the number of aortic endothelial cells. As prevention, cowpea extract can be used as an antioxidant and consumed since premenopause to minimize problems that occur during postmenopause.
OPTIONS FOR ASSESSING THE SUITABILITY OF URBAN ENVIRONMENTAL ACUPUNCTURE
Authors: Vojvodíková Barbara , Kupka Jiří , Brázdová Adéla , Fojtík Radim , Tichá Iva
Published: September 2021

To increase their resilience to climate change, cities are looking to apply elements of urban environmental acupuncture. The essence of such measures is many smaller sites that is functioning as mitigation measures. Many of these small places then create a large overall effect. The advantage of these small-scale measures is that they can be in densely populated areas The assessment tool described in this paper is designed for city representatives and is an aid to assess the suitability of applying a particular measure based on the parameters described. The evaluation itself then helps to decide whether the solution is suitable for a particular site or whether any of the parameters need to be adjusted to make it suitable, or whether it would be appropriate to change the proposed solution. The intention of the evaluation is not to assess the technical solution but relies primarily on the location, long-term (especially financial) sustainability and acceptance by the citizens of the city. The paper presents an example of the application of the evaluation to four sites in city Liptovský Mikuláš, describing the results and identifying parameters that can be improved to ensure the urban environmental acupuncture is accepted by citizens and thus future-proofed.
REDUCING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS BY IMPLEMENTING SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
Authors: Nicolae Raluca Ioana , Nicolae Petru , Brăileanu Ana-Maria
Published: September 2021

Climate change is an inevitable and urgent global challenge with long-term implications for the sustainable development of all countries. In order to respond to climate change, it is very important to identify new ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The present paper emphasizes that the use of a greener and more efficient means of transport, such as a highway (in this case Buzău-Focșani) is more beneficial in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions than using old infrastructure. Through specific traffic data processing and dispersion modelling, it was shown that the polluting emissions will increase in the next years, in case of using the already existing road, while the use of a sustainable highway provides a downward trend for these emissions. The construction of the highway will have positive effects on air quality, will ensure a good traffic flow, but the benefits will be even greater when the replacing of the existing car fleet (Diesel vehicles) with hybrid and electric vehicles will take place.
CONSIDERATIONS ON SARS-COV-2 DIAGNOSIS IN THE LABORATORY OF UNIVERSITY EMERGENCY CLINICAL HOSPITAL OF CONSTANTA
Authors: Stoicescu Ramona , Stoicescu Razvan-Alexandru , Gheorghe Codrin , Honcea Adina , Bratu Iulian
Published: September 2021

Coronaviruses are members of the Coronaviridae family. They are enveloped, non-segmented, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses. Their genome size is about 30 kilobases (kb) which consist, at the 5’ end, of non-structural open reading frames (ORFs: ORF1a, ORF 1b) which code for 16 non structural proteins, and at the 3’ end the genes which code for four structural proteins including membrane (M), envelope (E), spike (S), and nucleocapsid (N) proteins. Due to the rapid spread of COVID-19, a reliable detection method is needed for patient diagnosis especially in the early stages of the disease. WHO has recommended nucleic acid amplification tests such as real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The assay detects three SARS-CoV-2 RNA targets: the envelope (E) gene, the nucleocapsid (N) gene and a region of the open reading frame (ORF1) of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene from SARS-CoV-2 virus isolate Wuhan-Hu-1. Our study was made in the first 3 months of the year 2021 using the real-time RT PCR results obtained in the Cellular Biology ward of the University Emergency Clinical Hospital. In our lab we are testing the inpatients from the hospital wards (Neurology, Pediatrics, Surgery, Internal medicine, ICU, Cardiology, etc.); we are also testing the outpatients from Dialysis and Oncology, 2 days prior to their therapy; we also test the health care personnel. The number of tests we performed was: in January 1456, with 399 positive results (27.4%), 33 deaths; in February 1273 tests, 221 positive (17.36%), 16 deaths; in March 1471 tests, 373 positive (25.36%), 37 deceased.
HPV GENOTYPES COINFECTIONS AND HEALTH RISK - PRELIMINARY STUDY OF THE EAST ROMANIAN POPULATION
Authors: Gheorge Codrin , Verginica Schröder , Ramona Stoicescu , Adina Honce , Irina Dumitru
Published: September 2021

The study aims to identify the degree of infection and co-infection with HPV strains in people of different ages, to assess the risk associated with lack of immunization of the Romanian population. In this study we are looking at the prevalence and relationship of the different types of HPV strains present in the 37 cases with suspected HPV infection that were analyzed, in the period 2018-2019, within the Prodiagnostic analysis laboratory, in Constanța, Romania. Of the total number of people analyzed for the case study, 45.94% (17 out of 37) tested positive for HPV infection. The analysis of the frequency of strains by risk categories shows that the highest percentage was 48% in the case of high-risk strains, followed by the percentage of frequency of strains with unknown risk (44%) and that of low-risk strains (8 %); The analysis by age indicates the maximum infection rate recorded belonging to the age group between 23 and 34 years. The association between strains and the 50% frequency indicates an important aspect of the infection as well as important data for diagnosis and treatment and involves more rigorous monitoring of patients with such associations, the risk increases with the associations.
LABORATORY METHODS AND PREVALENCE OF SARS-COV-2 INFECTIONS IN THE 2ND SEMESTER OF 2021 IN THE EMERGENCY CLINICAL COUNTY HOSPITAL OF CONSTANTA
Authors: Ramona Stoicescu , Razvan-Alexandru Stoicescu , Gheorghe Codrin , Verginica Schroder
Published: September 2021

"Diagnosing infections with SARS-CoV-2 is still of great interest due to the health and economic impact of COVID pandemic. The 4th wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is expected and is considered to be stronger and faster due to the dominance of Delta variant which is highly contagious [1]. SARS-CoV-2 also known as 2019-nCoV is one of the three coronaviruses (together with SARS-CoV or SARS-CoV1/Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus), MERS-CoV /Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus) which can cause severe respiratory tract infections in humans [2]. Early diagnosis in COVID 19 infection is the key for preventing infection transmission in collectivity and proper medical care for the ill patients. Gold standard for diagnosing SARS-Co-V-2 infection according to WHO recommendation is using nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT)/ reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The search is on to develop reliable but less expensive and faster diagnostic tests that detect antigens specific for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Antigen-detection diagnostic tests are designed to directly detect SARSCoV-2 proteins produced by replicating virus in respiratory secretions so-called rapid diagnostic tests, or RDTs. The diagnostic development landscape is dynamic, with nearly a hundred companies developing or manufacturing rapid tests for SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection [3]. In the last 3 months our hospital introduced the antigen test or Rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) which detects the presence of viral proteins (antigens) expressed by the COVID-19 virus in a sample from the respiratory tract of a person. All RDT were confirmed next day with a RT-PCR. The number of positive cases detected during 3 months in our laboratory was 425. There were 326 positive tests in April, 106 positive tests in May and 7 positive tests in June. Compared with the number of positive tests in the 1st semester of 2021, the positive tests have significantly declined."
MATHEMATICAL MODELS FOR THE SYNTHESIS OF PLANT-BASED COMPOSITIONS WITH IMPROVED AMINO ACID COMPOSITION
Authors: Gaivoronskaya Irina , Kolpakova Valenitna
Published: September 2021

The aim of the work was to optimize the process of obtaining multicomponent protein compositions with high biological value and higher functional properties than the original vegetable protein products. Was realized studies to obtain biocomposites on the base of pea protein-oat protein and pea protein-rice protein. Developed composites were enriched with all limited amino acids. For each of the essential amino acids, the amino acid score was 100% and higher. Protein products used in these compositions are not in major allergen list, which allows to use these compositions in allergen-free products and specialized nutrition. To determine biosynthesis parameters for compositions from pea protein and various protein concentrates with the use of transglutaminase enzyme, was studied effect of concentration and exposition time on the amount of amino nitrogen released during the reaction. Decreasing of amino nitrogen in the medium indicated the occurrence of a protein synthesis reaction with the formation of new covalent bonds. Were determined optimal parameters of reaction: the hydromodule, the exposure time, the concentration of EP of the preparation, were obtained mathematical models. Studies on the functional properties of composites, the physicochemical properties of the proteins that make up their composition, and structural features will make it possible to determine the uses in the manufacture of food products based on their ability to bind fat, water, form foam, gels, and etc.
METHODS FOR QUANTIFICATION OF THE MAIN CANNABINOIDS IN CBD OIL
Authors: Blebea Nicoleta Mirela , Negreș Simona
Published: September 2021

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an alkaloid present in Cannabis sativa, together with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and more than 120 other substances belonging to a group of compounds named cannabinoids. Due to the continuous increased usage of CBD oils, it became necessary to be developed efficient methods for the identification of its compounds and especially for the characterization of the cannabinoids from the commercial specimens. Cannabinoids may be detected by many and different analytical methods, including immunoassays (EMIT®, Elisa, fluorescent polarization, radioimmunotest), techniques of flat chromatography: classic thin layer chromatography (TLC), optimum performance laminar chromatography (OPLC) and multiple development automatization (AMD), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Ultraviolet signal (UV) is used for the quantification of major cannabinoids and the mass spectrometer is used for the quantification of minor cannabinoids. The purpose of this study was to compare the performances of TLC, Ultra High-Performance Liquid chromatography with Photodiode Array Detection (UHPLC with PDA) and LC-MS/ MS technique for the qualitative and quantitative determination of cannabinoids in 3 commercial oils with CBD. Having in view that CBD may be found in many forms of oils, on the legal market of the internet, we believe that the development of a method for the qualitative and quantitative determination may be an interesting subject for the pharmaceutical professional persons.
PHARMACOGNOSTIC ANALYSIS AND ANALYSIS OF THE PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS OF THE AERIAL PARTS OF THE SPECIES CERASTIUM BULGARICUM UECHTR. SIN. CERASTIUM GRACILE DUFOUR
Authors: Antoanela Popescu , Felicia Suciu , Carmen Lupu , Iuliana Stoicescu , Adrian Cosmin Roșca
Published: September 2021

"The main objective of the paper was the pharmacognostic analysis of the microscopic and chemical species of the aerial part of the species Cerastium bulgaricum Uechtr. sin. Cerastium gracile Dufour, to establish the chemical composition and especially to identify active principles that scientifically substantiate the traditional use of the plant product. The microscopic analyses of the vegetative organs (stem and leaf) the species Cerastium bulgaricum Uechtr led to the conclusion that its histo-anatomical structure is specific to Caryophyllaceae. Following the global chemical analysis, active principles known in the literature for the antioxidant potential were identified. Following the preliminary quantitative determinations (drying loss, determination of soluble substances) results comparable to those in the literature on the content of volatile substances and soluble substances were obtained. The separation, identification and quantification of poliphenols compounds were made through high performance of liquid chromatography (HPLC), standardized method according to USP30-NF25 Monograph"
STUDIES ON THE MORPHO-ANATOMICAL PARTICULARITIES OF LYSIMACHIA NUMMULARIA L.
Authors: Felicia Suciu , Mariana Arcuș , Cosmin Adrian , Laura Bucur , Antoanela Popescu , Victoria Badea
Published: September 2021

"The objective of the study was the histo-anatomical analysis of the root, stem and leaf belonging to the species Lysimachia nummularia L. from the Primulaceae family. The plant is native to Europe, but has been introduced to North America, where it is considered an invasive species in some areas. It aggressively spreads in favourable conditions, such as low wet ground or near ponds. It is moderately difficult to remove by hand pulling. Any tiny piece left behind will regrow. The research results led to the following assessments: root with primary structure and beginning of secondary structure, the presence of calcium oxalate druze in the bark, endoderm and primary type conducting bundles. The results of the study also demonstrated the existence of the stem with four prominent ribs, a meatic-type bark with small secretory channels and a central cylinder with a secondary structure. Another element studied from a histo-anatomical point of view; leaf with dorsi-ventral bifacial structure, with heterogeneous asymmetrical structure, collateral free-woody bundle, without periectors. From the morpho-anatomical data described, it can be concluded that the species Lysimachia nummularia L. belongs to the family Primulaceae and is related to other species of the genus Lysimachia."
ECOLOGICAL CONSOLIDATION OF LANDS IN RUSSIA AND FEDERAL DISTRICTS
Authors: Mazurkin Peter
Published: September 2021

It is proposed to identify the hierarchy of federal districts in terms of ecological opportunities for consolidation of vegetation cover according to three classes of soil cover according to the UN classification (grass + shrub + trees) on the land territory of Russia by ranking the shares of vegetation cover and human-modified lands, as well as ecological coefficients. The total ecological coefficient is calculated by dividing the share of vegetation by the total share of anthropogenic land. The forest-agricultural coefficient is convenient as the ratio of the forest area to the arable land area. The identification method revealed stable regularities of rank distributions in the form of trends and wave equations.