bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA quality and quantity in adipose tissue: a comparison of the effects of bomb explosion
Authors: Leonardo  , Sugiharto Ade Firmansyah , Indriatmi Wresti , Atmadja Djaja Surya , Yudianto Ahmad , Herkutanto  , Widodo Wahyu
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND Adipose tissue is often overlooked in DNA testing due to misconceptions about its DNA content. However, its shock-absorbing qualities may be useful for high-pressure scenarios like bomb blasts. This study aimed to evaluate DNA quality and quantity in adipose tissue affected by blasts compared to that in unaffected tissue.

METHODS 10 adipose tissue samples were taken from regions near and far from the blast, representing the blast-exposed and non-blast-exposed groups. The adipose tissue was stored at a low temperature for 5 days, after which an organic extraction method was applied. The purity of the DNA extract was assessed using a NanoDrop spectrophotometer, and its integrity was evaluated using 0.8% concentration gel electrophoresis at 60 V for 90 min. DNA typing was conducted using the GlobalFiler™ kit, and DNA quantity was determined with the Quantifiler™ Trio DNA Quantification kit.

RESULTS Of 20 DNA extracts from adipose tissue, all samples demonstrated purity, integrity, and complete typing results. Adequate integrity was found in 90% of samples in both groups. A 50% incidence of allele shifting was observed at the D7S820 locus within the blast-exposed group.

CONCLUSIONS DNA from blast-exposed adipose tissue exhibited no significant quality or quantity differences from non-blast-exposed tissue. This suggested adipose tissue’s potential as an alternative DNA source in a bomb explosion.
Robust layout optimization for intelligent reflecting surfaces-based visible light communication systems
Authors: Liu Changling , Wang Jianping , Feng Lifang , Chen Hongyao , Xue Zhuo
Published: February 2024

Due to the inherent tendency to be blocked by obstacles, reliability is a major challenge for visible light communication (VLC). The intelligent reflective surface (IRS) is an effective way to reduce or eliminate the influence of blockage in the VLC system. However, the complexity increases correspondingly due to complex shadow analysis when access points (APs), IRSs, and obstacles coexist. We proposed a robust layout optimization scheme for the IRS-VLC system to resist blockages. First, we model the random obstructions based on spatial geometry methods. Second, we build the optimization problem model considering consistent illumination, achievable data rate (ADR), the positions of the APs, and the directions of the IRS array. In order to achieve this objective, we develop an anti-occlusion method based on the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II) to get the Pareto front and use enhanced measurement functions (ASFs) to extract the best solution. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme works well in the IRS-VLC system. It is noteworthy that the rectangle layout has always demonstrated superior performance in the IRS-VLC system compared to other traditional layouts.
High-sensitivity tapered fiber relative humidity sensor based on PDMS and GO films
Authors: Yang Heer , Li Yuanjun , Sun Cai , Pan Xuepeng , Liu Shanren , Wang Bo , Gao Mengmeng , Guo Qi , Yu Yongsen
Published: February 2024

A new tapered fiber relative humidity (RH) sensor based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and graphene oxide (GO) film coatings is proposed and demonstrated. Tapered fiber is fabricated in single mode fiber by the tapering machine. The PDMS film is coated on the surface of the fiber using the hydroxide flame sintering technique, while the GO film is deposited using the physical deposition technique. This structure can achieve strong interference effect by the smaller range of tapering process. In the RH measurement experiment, the humidity sensitivity of the sensor is measured to be as high as 0.371 dB/%RH within the RH range of 35% to 90%. The experiment investigates the impact of different numbers of PDMS coating on sensitivity. As the number of PDMS coatings increases, the RH sensitivity of the sensor also increases and reaches the highest sensitivity when coated with 10 layers of PDMS film. The sensor has high sensitivity to RH, good stability and mechanical strength, which also shows great performance in both moisture absorption and desorption. These advantages make the sensor suitable for the wide range of humidity sensing applications.
A comprehensive meta-analysis of transcriptome data to identify signature genes associated with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kordshouli Shirin Omidvar , Tahmasebi Ahmad , Moghadam Ali , Ramezani Amin , Niazi Ali
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a five-year survival rate of less than 5%. Absence of symptoms at primary tumor stages, as well as high aggressiveness of the tumor can lead to high mortality in cancer patients. Most patients are recognized at the advanced or metastatic stage without surgical symptom, because of the lack of reliable early diagnostic biomarkers. The objective of this work was to identify potential cancer biomarkers by integrating transcriptome data.

Methods

Several transcriptomic datasets comprising of 11 microarrays were retrieved from the GEO database. After pre-processing, a meta-analysis was applied to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between tumor and nontumor samples for datasets. Next, co-expression analysis, functional enrichment and survival analyses were used to determine the functional properties of DEGs and identify potential prognostic biomarkers. In addition, some regulatory factors involved in PDAC including transcription factors (TFs), protein kinases (PKs), and miRNAs were identified.

Results

After applying meta-analysis, 1074 DEGs including 539 down- and 535 up-regulated genes were identified. Pathway enrichment analyzes using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) revealed that DEGs were significantly enriched in the HIF-1 signaling pathway and focal adhesion. The results also showed that some of the DEGs were assigned to TFs that belonged to 23 conserved families. Sixty-four PKs were identified among the DEGs that showed the CAMK family was the most abundant group. Moreover, investigation of corresponding upstream regions of DEGs identified 11 conserved sequence motifs. Furthermore, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified 8 modules, more of them were significantly enriched in Ras signaling, p53 signaling, MAPK signaling pathways. In addition, several hubs in modules were identified, including EMP1, EVL, ELP5, DEF8, MTERF4, GLUP1, CAPN1, IGF1R, HSD17B14, TOM1L2 and RAB11FIP3. According to survival analysis, it was identified that the expression levels of two genes, EMP1 and RAB11FIP3 are related to prognosis.

Conclusion

We identified several genes critical for PDAC based on meta-analysis and system biology approach. These genes may serve as potential targets for the treatment and prognosis of PDAC.
PBX3 as a biomarker for the early diagnosis and prediction of prognosis of glioma
Authors: pan Cuicui , bai Xueli , Li Na , Zheng Ni , Si Yuanquan , Zhao Yueran
Published: February 2024

Background

Increasing evidence have elucidated that PBX3 played a crucial role in cancer initiation and progression. PBX3 was differentially expressed in many cancer types. However, PBX3 potential involvement in gliomas remains to be explored.

Methods

The expression level of PBX3 in glioma tissues and glioma cells, and its correlation with clinical features were analyzed by data from TCGA, GEPIA, CGGA and CCLE. Univariable survival and Multivariate Cox analysis was used to compare several clinical characteristics with survival. We also analyzed the correlation between PBX3 expression level and survival outcome and survival time of LGG and GBM patients by using linear regression equation. GSEA was used to generate an ordered list of all genes related to PBX3 expression and screening of genes co-expressed with PBX3 mRNA by "limma" package.

Results

The results showed that PBX3 was highly expressed in gliomas and its expression increased with the increase of malignancy. Survival analysis found that PBX3 is more valuable in predicting the OS and PFI of LGG patients than that of GBM. For further study, TCGA and CGGA data were downloaded for univariate Cox analysis and multivariate Cox analysis which showed that the expression of PBX3 was independent influencing factors for poor prognosis of LGG patients. Meanwhile, Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that PBX3 was a predictor of overall survival rate and progression-free survival rate of LGG. Linear regression model analysis indicated that the higher expression of PBX3 the higher the risk of death of LGG patients, and the higher expression of PBX3 the higher the risk of disease progression of LGG patients. Next, TCGA data were downloaded for GSEA and Co-expression analyses, which was performed to study the function of PBX3.

Conclusion

PBX3 may be involved in the occurrence and development of glioma, and has potential reference value for the early diagnosis and prediction of prognosis of glioma.
Medication abortion during the COVID-19 pandemic in France: A research based on the French national health insurance database
Authors: Chaput Justine , Becquet Valentine , Bithorel Pierre-Louis , Baril Elodie , de La Rochebrochard Elise , Mazuy Magali
Published: February 2024

Objectives

During the COVID-19 pandemic in France, abortion was recognized as an essential service that cannot be delayed, and such care was therefore presumed to be maintained. The aim is to analyze the changes in the practice of abortion in 2020 to identify the consequences of the two lockdowns and the effects of the extension of the legal time limit.

Methods

We analyzed the data collected by the French national health insurance system, which covers 99% of the population. All women who had an elective abortion, either surgical or with medication, in France in 2019 and 2020 were included in the study. Trend changes in abortions were analyzed by comparing the ratio of the weekly number of abortions in 2020 with the weekly number in 2019.

Results

Both 2020 lockdowns were followed by a drop in abortions, particularly after the first and stricter lockdown. This may be explained not by an abrupt shutdown of access to abortion services, but rather by a decrease in conceptions during the lockdown weeks. The decrease was more marked for surgical abortions than for medication abortions in a hospital setting, and less so for medication abortions in non-hospital settings. Moreover, the proportion of the latter type of abortions continued to increase, showing the reinforcement of a previous trend.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that expanding the legal time limit for abortion, diversifying the settings where abortions can be performed and the range of abortion providers help to facilitate access to this fundamental reproductive care.
How do creative assets affect overseas market entry modes of enterprises– the moderating role of internal and external factors
Authors: Wang Can , Tao Kangsheng , Cui Xiyuan , Qin Sushu
Published: February 2024

In the process of transnational investment management, the choice of entry mode is one of the key decisions, and creative assets will affect the choice of overseas market entry mode. However, few studies have analyzed how creative assets affect firms’ overseas market entry patterns. This paper takes 480 overseas investment data of 134 Chinese listed enterprises from 2012 to 2019 as research samples and uses the Logistic model to study the influence of creative assets owned by enterprises on their choice of the joint venture and wholly owned modes. At the same time, we examine the formal and informal institutional distance between home and host countries, and the moderating effect of firms’ own experience in the process of model selection. In addition, using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) from the perspective of configuration to explore the different paths of overseas market entry mode. The research results indicate that marketing intensity and technical intensity of enterprises have a positive and significant impact on overseas investment patterns, that is, higher marketing intensity or technical intensity will prompt enterprises to preferentially choose wholly-owned mode. Formal institutional distance and experience can moderate the relationship between creativity and investment mode to some extent, while informal institutional distance has no significant moderating effect on creative assets and investment mode. Three configurations can induce firms to choose the wholly-owned mode, and only one configuration can induce firms to choose the joint venture mode. This study lays a theoretical foundation for enterprises to enter the overseas market.
Individual change in rejection of equal opportunities for foreigners among adolescents and young adults in Switzerland: Testing realistic conflict theory from a dynamic perspective
Authors: Hendriks Inge , Lubbers Marcel , Scheepers Peer
Published: February 2024

This study’s objective is to test one of the key theoretical orientations in the literature on intergroup relations, realistic conflict theory, from a dynamic perspective. In this study, we focus on adolescents who are, according to the ‘impressionable years’-hypothesis, most likely to change in their rejection of equal opportunities. Realistic conflict theory is applied in a dynamic way by taking into account economic characteristics related to the adolescent and the household. We employ Swiss panel data covering the period 1999–2017, containing information of both adolescents and the household they live in. Results demonstrate that there is relatively little variation within adolescents in rejection of equal opportunities for foreigners. Despite of using a broad range of characteristics related to adolescents’ as well as the household’s economic situation, the changes that do occur within individuals could hardly be explained by those economic changes. Socialisation theories on direct parental influences appeared to better explain changes in rejection of equal opportunities.
Hidden Markov Models based intelligent health assessment and fault diagnosis of rolling element bearings
Authors: Qifeng Yao , Longsheng Cheng , Naeem Muhammad Tariq
Published: February 2024

Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) have become an immensely popular tool for health assessment and fault diagnosis of rolling element bearings. The advantages of an HMM include its simplicity, robustness, and interpretability, while the generalization capability of the model still needs to be enhanced. The Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence can be used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation, and Stacking provides a novel training strategy. Therefore, the HMM-based fusion method and ensemble learning method are proposed to increase the credibility of quantitative analysis and optimize classifiers respectively. Firstly, vibration signals captured from bearings are decomposed into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) using ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD), and then the Hilbert envelope spectra of main components are obtained; Secondly, multi-domain features are extracted as model input from preprocessed signals; Finally, HMM-based intelligent health assessment framework and fault diagnosis framework are established. In this work, the life cycle health assessment modeling is performed using a few training samples, the bearing degradation state is quantitatively evaluated, normal and abnormal samples are effectively distinguished, and the accuracy of fault diagnosis is significantly improved.
Multi-bump solutions of Schrödinger–Bopp–Podolsky system with steep potential well
Authors: Wang Li , Wang Jun , Wang Jixiu
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we study the existence of multi-bump solutions for the following Schrödinger–Bopp–Podolsky system with steep potential well:

{

−
Δ
u
+
(
λ
V
(
x
)
+

V
0

(
x
)
)
u
+
K
(
x
)
ϕ
u
=

|

u

|

p
−
2

u
,

x
∈

R

3

,

−
Δ
ϕ
+

a
2

Δ
2

ϕ
=
K
(
x
)

u
2

,

x
∈

R

3

,

where
p
∈
(
4
,
6
)
,
a
>
0

and
λ
is a parameter. We require that
V
(
x
)
≥
0

and has a bounded potential well
Ω
=

V

−
1

(
0
)
. Combining this with other suitable assumptions on
Ω
,

V

0

and
K
, when
λ
is large enough, we obtain the existence of multi-bump-type solutions

u

λ

by using variational methods.
Lagrange stability for a class of impulsive Duffing equation with low regularity
Authors: He Xiaolong , Sun Yueqin , Shen Jianhua
Published: February 2024

We discuss the Lagrange stability for a class of impulsive Duffing equation with time-dependent polynomial potentials. More precisely, we prove that under suitable impulses, all the solutions of the impulsive Duffing equation (with low regularity in time) are bounded for all time and that there are many (positive Lebesgue measure) quasi-periodic solutions clustering at infinity.
TRANSFORMATION OF THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH TRAINING PROCESS
Authors: Usikova O. V. , Osennova E. V.
Published: February 2024

Occupational safety training is part of the system of preventive measures aimed at reducing the dynamics of occupational injuries and occupational diseases in the country and is currently one of the most relevant and massively discussed areas of the professional community in the field of occupational safety and health, as well as employers. The authors of the paper analyze the quality of training and identify related socio-economic problems in this area. The paper presents the author's vision of the algorithm of occupational safety training, which has universal and additional components, as well as formulates the results and competencies formed by the results of training. The authors summarize and analyze the requirements that are imposed on employees who provide training in the field of occupational safety and health, formulate conclusions about the transformation of the training process in connection with the development of a new professional standard «Specialist in training in the field of occupational safety and health» and the Rules of training.
IMPACT OF A HEALTHY WORKING ENVIRONMENT ON CARPET WEAVING INDUSTRY GROWTH
Authors: Haidari M. M. F. , Gul A. S. , Bobrovskaya T. V. , Kuzina E. V.
Published: February 2024

The art of carpet weaving is an area of culture which development traces back to a century-old tradition in the countries of the East. This industry has survived to present day and plays a significant role for the economies of Central Asia and Iran, making up a large share of their export supplies. The scientists from different countries study the history of carpet weaving goods in the context of their cultural and artistic peculiarities: ornaments, signs, symbols, etc. However, this industry is primary considered as a source of creating objects of decorative and applied art. Only a few researchers address the current economic problems of the industry, in particular, the issues of labour organization and working conditions.

Technology and organization of handmade carpet making and working conditions of craftsmen in Afghanistan have not changed much for many centuries: one carpet is created within 2-4 months by backbreaking work of a group of 3-5 Afghan craftswomen. The industry faces significant competition from cheap artificial carpets from Pakistan. Experts note a drop in the export potential of carpet weaving in Afghanistan, and some even talk about the problem of fading of the ancient craft traditions in the country. These circumstances determined the relevance of the topic.

The article describes the findings of the fieldwork-based research devoted to investigating the impact of a healthy working environment on the carpet weaving industry growth. The aim of this study is to identify the factors affecting a healthy working environment and establish the correlation between them on the example of carpet weaving industry.

The findings are the results of the survey conducted in all carpet weaving companies in the Akchakh district of Jawzjan province in northern Afghanistan. This rural region has an ancient tradition of carpet weaving.
The social invisibility of mental health facilities
Authors: Chrysikou Evangelia
Published: February 2024

This booklet has been been produced and published by the research team of the Grand Challenges project ' The social invisibility of mental health facilities: Raising awareness on social exclusion in urban environments through artwork’. The publication of the book has been funded by the UCL Grand Challenges Small Grant.
Pericardiectomy and Mechanical Mitro-Aortic Valve Replacement in a Young Patient With Erdheim-Chester Disease
Authors: Perez Nerea Lopez , Steenberghe Mathieu van , Seebach Jörg D. , Meyer Philippe , Lobrinus Johannes Alexander , Huber Christoph , Cikirikcioglu Mustafa
Published: February 2024

Erdheim-Chester disease is a rare histiocytosis that primarily affects the skeletal system, but cardiovascular manifestations occur in 75% of cases and are associated with a poor prognosis. Given the small number of cases, the evolution and management of the disease are uncertain. Therefore, it is important to report and share Erdheim-Chester cases. This report presents the case of a young patient with constrictive pericarditis and mitral valve regurgitation resulting from Erdheim-Chester disease.
PELAKSANAAN TUGAS BADAN PENANGGULANGAN BENCANA DAERAH KOTA SEMARANG BERDASARKAN PERATURAN DAERAH NOMOR 12 TAHUN 2010 TENTANG ORGANISASI DAN TATA KERJA BADAN PENANGGULANGAN BENCANA DAERAH KOTA SEMARANG
Authors: Zulqa Ihdaa , Herawati Ratna , Hardjanto Untung Sri
Published: February 2024

Kota Semarang secara geografis  terbagi menjadi dua bagian yaitu, Semarang atas dibagian selatan yang dikelilingi oleh dataran tinggi dan perbukitan, dan Semarang bawah dibagian utara yang merupakan daerah dengan dataran yang lebih rendah. Kondisi geografis tersebut mengakibatkan Kota Semarang sering dilanda bencana terutama bencana alam seperti banjir rob pada daerah dataran rendah dan tanah longsor pada daerah dataran tinggi. Berdasarkan kondisi geografis Kota Semarang yang rawan terhadap bencana terutama bencana alam maka, Pemerintah Daerah membentuk Badan Penanggulangan Bencana  Daerah (BPBD) Kota Semarang. Pembentukan BPBD Kota Semarang ini sesuai dengan amanat yang tertuang di dalam Undang-Undang Nomor 24 Tahun 2007 tentang Penanggulangan Bencana, yang tugas utamanya adalah menyelenggarakan penanggulangan bencana mulai dari tahap prabencana, tahap saat bencana atau tahap tanggap darurat sampai tahap pascabencana, sebagaimana yang tertuang di dalam Peraturan Daerah Nomor 12 Tahun 2010 tentang Organisasi dan Tata Kerja  Badan Penanggulangan Bencana Daerah Kota Semarang.
Crystal structure of 3-amino-N′-hydroxy-1H-pyrazole-4-carboximidamide, C4H7N5O
Authors: Li Yunlu
Published: February 2024

C4H7N5O, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 4.855(3) Å, b = 9.026(5) Å, c = 7.092(4) Å, β = 103.267(7)°, V = 302.5(3) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt
(F) = 0.0385, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1183, T = 296(2) K.
Cabo Delgado: a szubszaharai Afrika egy újabb kormányozhatatlan területe?
Authors: Pintér Tibor
Published: February 2024

A 2000-es évektől a kormányozhatatlan terület fogalma egyre meghatározóbbá vált, köszönhető ez elsősorban a 2001. szeptember 11-i terrortámadásnak a Word Trade Center ellen, ami elindította az Amerikai Egyesült Államok globális harcát a terrorizmus felszámolására, egyre nagyobb figyelmet szentelve azoknak a területeknek, ahol az állami jelenlét gyenge és ideális bázisul szolgálhat a terror és/vagy dzsihádista szervezeteknek. Ezek alól a szubszaharai Afrika területei sem kivételek, hiszen az elmúlt bő egy évtizedben a dzsihádista mozgalmak befolyási területe addig soha nem látott ütemben nőtt. A tanulmány ennek a tendenciának a legújabb esetét mutatja be, Mozambik északi részét, Cabo Delgado-t. A kormányozhatatlan területiség ismérvein végighaladva a tanulmány arra a kérdésre keresi a választ, hogy Cabo Delgado minősülhet-e kormányozhatatlan területnek. Ennek a megválaszolásához a fogalom részletes kifejtése és Mozambik északi részének társadalmi, gazdasági és biztonságpolitikai folyamatainak vizsgálata szükséges.
Sistema de información para la educación digital: percepción de usuarios en la Universidad de Guanajuato
Authors: Magdaleno Horta Liliana , Muñoz Mújica Roberto José , Martínez Patiño Jesús
Published: February 2024

En la era digital contemporánea, la gestión adecuada de la información se ha convertido en un pilar fundamental para las instituciones educativas. Este estudio se centra en el Sistema de Información para la Educación Digital (SIDigital) de la Universidad de Guanajuato, donde a través de un diseño transversal mixto se evalúa su implementación y operación, desde la percepción de sus usuarios. Los resultados indican que el SIDigital ha optimizado significativamente los procesos, reducido tiempos de respuesta y mejorado la satisfacción general de los usuarios. A pesar de sus beneficios, se identificaron áreas de mejora que ofrecen oportunidades para futuras actualizaciones del sistema. El SIDigital se presenta como una herramienta relevante en la transformación digital de la Universidad de Guanajuato, subrayando la importancia de contar con sistemas robustos de gestión de información en el ámbito educativo universitario.
Adaptive Control of Underwater Tunnel Monitoring Robot Based on IoT and Fuzzy Neural Network Algorithm
Authors: Ye Fumeng , Wang Wenhui , He Rufei , Ouyang Jifan , Yang Xiali
Published: February 2024

To improve the navigation ability of underwater tunnel monitoring robots at fixed distances, directions, depths, and heights and to improve the accuracy of tunnel monitoring, an adaptive control method for underwater tunnel monitoring robots based on the Internet of Things (IoT) and fuzzy neural network algorithms is proposed. The structure of underwater tunnel monitoring robots is analyzed based on the IoT, the convolutional neural network algorithm is used to extract the tracking target characteristics of the underwater tunnel monitoring robot, and the obstacle avoidance process of the underwater tunnel monitoring robot is analyzed. The membership degree of the input variable is calculated by the fuzzy control algorithm. The control rule optimizes the neural network algorithm, obtains the target characteristics displayed by the visual tracking of the underwater tunnel monitoring robot based on the fuzzy neural network, uses the adaptive control to estimate the optimal parameters, and finally obtains the adaptive sliding mode control of the underwater tunnel monitoring robot. The experimental results show that the proposed method can accurately realize the target tracking task of the underwater tunnel monitoring robot and has better obstacle avoidance ability.
Commentary: Special Issue on Interpersonal Trust
Authors: Fonagy Peter , Campbell Chloe , Allison Elizabeth , Luyten Patrick
Published: February 2024

This commentary reviews the Journal of Personality Disorders special issue “Interpersonal Trust and Borderline Personality Disorder: Insights From Clinical Practice and Research,” published in Volume 37, Number 5, October 2023.
«MIGRATION CRISIS» THROUGH THE LENS OF UK INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL AGENDA
Authors:   Institute of Europe, RAS, Godovanyuk Kira
Published: February 2024

The article addresses the features of the «migration crisis» in Britain, the signs of which began manifesting itself almost as soon the country had left the EU in 2020. It is exactly the reduction of net migration that could, as the Brexiters hoped, score some points, in the eyes of the public and politically, that the withdrawal from the EU brought about positive changes due to the cessation of participation in the European Single market. In fact, one of the keynote campaign slogans – «take back control» – was never implemented, having morphed into the task of «stop the boats». The unprecedented increase in the number of illegal migrants was provoked both by imperfect asylum policies, unprepared for new challenges, and by legal gaps in the cooperation with the EU in terms of readmission and combating human trafficking. The author examines the government’s response to the «migration crisis» in two aspects. Firstly, the article looks into the changes the governments led by Johnson and Sunak, respectively, proposed to the migration legislation. An increasingly harder line on the asylum rules has become a trigger for public debate and internal party struggle, but also for legal proceedings. Secondly, the migration issue has become an important item on the international agenda of London. The government’s attempts to find reliable and legally defensible mechanisms for the removal of irregular migrants, including agreements with Rwanda to resettle asylum seekers, come into conflict with new political and legal arrangements with the EU and international humanitarian law, and adversely affect Britain’s image as a responsible international actor. It is concluded that the fight against illegal migration has become a top priority of socio-political discussions and the most important task for the Conservative Party ahead of the 2024 general elections.
PROSPECTS OF ECONOMIC STANDORT AMID THE CRISIS OF THE «TRAFFIC LIGHT» COALITION POLICY IN GERMANY
Authors:   Institute of Europe, RAS, Belov Vladislav
Published: February 2024

By the fall of 2023, the German government coalition (December 8 marked two years since the start of its activities) had developed a number of important economic bills. They were designed to increase the competitiveness of the German economic space in the context of polycrisis challenges – pandemic, energy, migration, geopolitical. But the economic policy of the Cabinet of Ministers also found itself in crisis. It acquired clear outlines after the German Constitutional Court in mid-November overturned the government’s decision taken at the end of 2021 to transfer 60 billion euros of loan funds intended to overcome the consequences of the coronavirus to the Climate and Transformation Fund to finance current government spending. The author analyzes the consequences of this decision for the planned reform steps; assesses the prospects for the formation of the state budget; characterizes the current state of the German standort, as well as the prospects for the deindustrialization of its energy-intensive sector.
FORMATION OF THE GERMAN MODERNIZATION STRATEGY: APPROACHES OF THE «TRAFFIC LIGHT» COALITION IN 2022–2023
Authors:   Institute of Europe, RAS, Sindeev Alexey
Published: February 2024

Large-scale transformation tasks, features of intellectual cultures, features of traditions, current political goals, balances and parities, crises and conflicts make it difficult to formulate a modernization policy in the countries of the collective West. Despite the difficulties, Germany’s ruling parties are trying to develop common approaches. The article characterizes the current state of formation of Germany’s modernization strategy. The first section analyzes the position of the Minister of Economy, representative of the Green Party, R. Habeck, and notes his intention to make the country’s «green modernization» irreversible. According to Habeck, accelerating modernization will allow to quickly overcome crises and complete the transformation of the model of German society and the German state. The second section examines the approach of Finance Minister K. Lindner. For Lindner, the success of modernization depends on the use of liberal methods. We are talking about abandoning government subsidies and encouraging the initiative of entrepreneurs. The third section analyzes the project of one of the leaders of the SPD, L. Klingbeil. He sees priorities in agreeing on a new European security and in cooperation with the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. In the fourth section, the decision of the Constitutional Court of Germany was analyzed. Thanks to this decision, the ruling parties will be forced to come to a common approach regarding national priorities. The practical significance of the article is determined by the influence of modernization on other areas of public policy
Feasibility of an Integrated Digital and Pharmacological Approach Targeting Blood Lipids in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Management
Authors: Yi Xu , Weiyu Qiu , Yan Li , Xianwu Lan , Shaorong Wu
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Strong evidence supports the importance of lipid-lowering and exercise therapies in the long-term therapy of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Establishing efficient comprehensive intervention programs that combine pharmacological and exercise prescription is crucial to investigate with the aid of digital technologies.

Methods: A convenience sample of 25 ASCVD patients (57.8 ± 9.5 years, 76% males) was gathered. All participants were prescribed with 12-week home exercise program supervised by an app and bimonthly 75mg alirocumab subcutaneous injections. Follow up visits were scheduled at the end of 4th and 12th week.

Results: Nineteen participants completed the program with a retention rate of 76%. Sixteen (84.2%) participants received all six doses of alirocumab. The total management time of the 12-week program added up to 65.47 minutes per patient. Satisfaction score was 4.2 ± 0.6 and the User Version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS) overall objective quality score on the app was 3.4 ± 0.7. At the 4-week and 12-week follow-ups, LDL-C levels reduced compared to baseline (−1.5 ± 0.8 mmol/L, P < 0.001, −1.6 ± 0.8 mmol/L, P < 0.001, respectively), along with TC (−1.8 ± 1.2 mmol/L, P < 0.001, −1.6 ± 1.3 mmol/L, P < 0.001, respectively), but not TG, HDL-C, GAD-7 and PHQ-9.

Conclusion: The integrated pharmaceutical and digital ERx intervention program was feasible and well accepted in ASCVD patients.
RESEARCH OF A COMBINED HEAT SUPPLY SYSTEM WITH ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES
Authors:   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Balasanian H. , Semenyii A. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University
Published: February 2024

The configuration of an energy-efficient combined heat supply system of the educational building of the Odessа Polytechnic National University with alternative energy sources is proposed. An experimental database of wind speed, which is tied to the dislocation of the combined heat supply system, was obtained. The averaged data on the wind speed of the Odesa weather site during the heating period have been adjusted. The conditions for using the energy potential of the wind to create a combined system are considered. A calculation model was obtained for the integral repeatability of the wind speed according to the Weibull probability distribution for the heating period. On the basis of the developed mathematical model of the dynamics of thermal processes of the elements of the combined system and the model of the energy potential of the wind, the modes of operation of the heat supply system when the temperature of the outside air changes are investigated. With the application of a mathematical model of the heating system, the optimal daily schedule of the intermittent operation of the heating system in terms of energy efficiency is given. The optimal schedules of the electrical and thermal load of the elements of the combined heat supply system in the intermittent heating mode have been worked out. Daily schedules of charge-discharge modes of the water heat accumulator and the electric accumulator battery have been developed, which ensure optimal loading of the system elements. The evaluation of the effectiveness of the substitution coefficient at a change in the outside air temperature from 5 to –15 °С was carried out. The energy balances of the combined system were studied in order to substantiate the rational parameters of its elements and the system as a whole. The possibility of creating a highly efficient autonomous heating system based on modern energy technologies using alternative energy sources and taking into account their local potential has been confirmed.
INFLUENCE OF PRESSURE IN THE TURBINE CONDENSER ON HEAT SUPPLY EFFICIENCY OF NPP WITH HEAT PUMP
Authors:   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Kravchenko V. , Overchenko A. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University
Published: February 2024

The use of a heat pump for heat supply makes it possible to practically stop thermal pollution of the environment during the operation of thermal and nuclear power plants in winter. If a steam turbine condenser is used as a low-potential energy source for heat pump, the amount of released thermal energy will be equal to the sum of the thermal power of the NPP condenser and the power of the heat pump compressors. From the point of view of environmental safety, heat supply by combining power plant with a heat pump is an urgent task. But it is known that the due to the lack of steam extraction for water heating, the additional electrical power of the cogeneration heat and power plant will be less than the capacity of the heat pump compressors. Thus, in terms of thermodynamic efficiency, the use of a heat pump loses to a traditional cogeneration plant. The purpose of the work is to determine the influence of the final pressure in the turbine condenser on the thermodynamic efficiency of a nuclear power plant with a heat pump. A mathematical model of the thermal scheme of the K-1000-5.8/1500 NPP turbo-plant during summer and winter operation with heating plant has been developed. With the heating plant capacity of 230 MW, the electric capacity of NPP unit decreases by 43.5 MW. A mathematical model of a heat pump has been developed, for which a steam turbinecondenser is used as a low-potential energy source. To ensure the release of 230 MW of heat, the power of the heat pump compressor must be 48.4 MW. Thus, if the heating plant is replaced with a heat pump of the same capacity, the electric power will decrease by 4.8 MW. Calculations were made regarding the influence of the final pressure in the condenser on the exergetic efficiency of the NPP with heat pump, which uses the entire capacity of the turbine condenser. The analysis of the obtained results showed that the exergetic efficiency due to the increase in electric power released in winter increases with the increase of the final pressure in the condenser. This is explained by an increase in the heat pump coefficient of performance.
RISK-INFORMED METHOD FOR QUALIFYING STRATEGIES FOR OPERATION CONTROL OF METAL OF SAFETY RELATED SYSTEMS OF NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
Authors:   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Skalozubov V. , Vierinov O. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Kanivets A. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Kochnieva V. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Bundiev D. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Hayo H. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University
Published: February 2024

The optimization of strategies for organizing operation control of metal of equipment and pipelines of safety related systems of nuclear power plants is a pressing issue in ensuring the operation safety and efficiency of nuclear power plants with VVERs. An analysis of regulatory and operational documentation, as well as well-known scientific developments, showed that the optimizing strategies for operation control of metal of safety related systems have not been sufficiently studied. Known strategies for organizing and planning operation control of metal of safety related systems do not take into account many years of experience in operating nuclear power plants with VVER (about 1000 reactor-years), the results of annual monitoring of the technical condition and reliability of equipment and pipelines of safety related systems (including continuous metal monitoring systems), as well as the influence of individual systems on the safety indicators of nuclear power plants and other relevant factors of reliable and safe operation. A risk-informed method has been developed for qualifying modernizations and optimizing strategies for organizing operation control of metal of safety related systems of nuclear power plants. The method is based on an analysis of the results of monitoring metal integrity of equipment and systems, as well as the probability of destruction (failure) of equipment and/or pipelines of safety related systems. Based on the developed risk-informed method for qualifying optimization of the strategy for organizing metal monitoring, the possibility to reduce the control frequency and scope for metal of the emergency feedwater pipeline of steam generators of nuclear power plants with VVER-1000 is substantiated. Further directions for the development of the practical application of the risk-informed method presented in this paper for the calculation qualification of strategies for operation control of metal of safety related systems of nuclear power plants can be related to experimental qualification of the method, as well as the improvement of deterministic methods for modelling processes of degradation/destruction of metal structures in transitional/emergency operating modes of nuclear power plants.
MODELS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING THE OPERATION OF THE ENERGY FACILITY CONTROL SYSTEM
Authors:   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Hrishyn P. , Grishyn M. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Zhanko K. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University
Published: February 2024

This article is devoted to improving methods and models for a computer-integrated control system (CICS) that monitors the wear of heat exchange surfaces of pipes in steam boilers at coal-fired thermal power stations (TPP), in particular for coal with unknown abrasive composition. The system uses real-time coal quality data to 1manage the abrasive, optimize coal distribution, and verify coal quality to reduce costs. It is described that the difficulties faced by the global coal industry are related to quality, price and environmental issues, and the transition to sustainable energy is complicated by this diversity. Efficient power generation depends on accurate identification of fuel composition and minimizing damage from abrasive impurities in the fuel of heat exchangers. Despite the existing analytical methods, there is a need for improved diagnostic technology, which involves the integration of automated systems to improve efficiency and sustainability. The paper presents a mathematical model that calculates the effect of different types of coal and impurities on the wear of heat exchange tubes, maximizing service life and minimizing costs. It includes a Cochran sampling rule to improve coal quality control. An automated coal quality management method was also developed to reduce wear from abrasive coal impurities. It includes a stepwise supplier selection and stock utilization method, enhancing wear control using the Cochran stepwise sampling method. In addition, a fuzzy logic-based control device distributes the flow in such a way as to ensure satisfactory coal quality, emphasizing the need for continuous system monitoring. A model-based CICS has been developed that controls coal flow based on real-time impurity identification, resulting in significant cost savings and extended overhaul intervals. Computational experiments confirm that the CICS can more than double the service life of heat exchange tubes by maintaining a satisfactory thickness, thereby postponing repairs and reducing operating costs. Overall, this article presents a comprehensive approach to managing and optimizing heat exchanger tube wear at TPP using modelling, real-time data analysis, and automated control systems to improve efficiency and sustainability.
INFORMATION AND MEASURING SYSTEMS FOR EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE ACCELERATED LIFE TESTS
Authors:   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Oborskyi H. , Palennyy Yu. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Polishchuk S. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University, Prokpovych I. ,   Odessa Polytechnic National University
Published: February 2024

The article is devoted to the formulation of the problem of improving methods for accelerated life tests of industrial equipment, as well as the problem of developing information and measurement systems for obtaining statistically significant measurement data during life tests. The service life of equipment can be determined through controlled operation. The difficulties of implementing such a method are shown. Using the method of accelerated life tests, the problem of reducing test time is solved, but the problem arises of determining a mathematical model for changing parameters to predict the life. The problems associated with the complexity of predicting equipment life using data from accelerated life tests are shown; problems with defining mathematical models for predicting the service life of various equipment elements, as well as equipment in general. Purpose, examples of mathematical models for resource assessment are given for such elements as bearings, blades of automotive turbochargers, seals and o-rings. It is shown that the wear of such equipment elements can be described by various mathematical models that take into account both the specific properties of the structure and the peculiarities of their operating conditions. It is indicated that as accelerated life tests are carried out, the mathematical forecast model can be refined and that in order to make a decision to change the model, the change in the controlled parameter must be statistically significant. The complexity of choosing a model that describes the equipment life is associated with the need to control a large number of parameters, carry out statistical processing of measurement results, control the impact on the test object and analyze the results of such impact. It is indicated that the listed set of actions is possible using information and measuring systems specially developed for these purposes.
Are national institutions implementing European Union funds part of the EU institutional system sensu largo? Observations from the perspective of Poland
Authors:   10.15290/eejtr.2023.07.01.04, Hryniewicka-Filipkowska Wioleta
Published: February 2024

The measure of the efficiency of any international organization is its institutions equipped with appropriate powers and executive apparatus. The European Union, like other international organizations, has its own structures that form a kind of institutional system. Practice shows that the elements that make up this system sensu stricte are not self-sufficient, which means that their work for the implementation of EU policies often requires the involvement of the national institutions of member states. This kind of practice is characteristic of the implementation of EU cohesion policy. The questions therefore arise: whether and on what basis do national institutions implementing EU funds in member states become part of the institutional system of the European Union sensu largo? and what effects does this have on the system of implementation of European Union funds? The article analyzes the concept of the EU institutional system sensu largo. It also discusses the special significance of the principle of subsidiarity for the functioning of the EU institutional system. It concludes with a reconstruction of the "subsidiarity" of the institutional system of the European Union and points out its national consequences. The author's thesis is that national institutions implementing EU funds are part of the institutional system of the EU sensu largo through the implementation of the EU principle of subsidiarity, which in turn causes certain consequences for the Polish system of implementing EU funds. The article was written using a dogmatic and descriptive method.