bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Descriptive Analysis of Mergers and Their Impact on Market Dynamics, Consumer Choices, and Industry Competitiveness
Authors: Shrestha Laetitia , Sejuwal Narendra
Published: November 2024

Background: Mergers in the insurance sector are a frequent occurrence, often promising operational efficiency and growth. However, their impact on employees remains a subject of debate, as these corporate transitions can significantly alter job roles, work dynamics, and employee satisfaction.
Objective: This study aims to explore the effects of mergers on employees within the insurance industry, examining both the positive and negative consequences on job satisfaction, workload, and retention.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys and interviews with employees from various insurance firms that recently underwent mergers. The data was analyzed to identify key themes related to employee experiences, satisfaction levels, and the perceived impact of the mergers.
Findings: The findings indicate a mixed response from employees, with some reporting positive changes such as career advancement opportunities and improved technology, while others expressed dissatisfaction with increased workload, reduced coordination, and a lack of involvement in decision-making. High turnover rates post-merger were also noted, suggesting concerns over job security and compensation.
Conclusion: Mergers in the insurance sector have a complex effect on employees, with both beneficial and detrimental outcomes. Clear communication, employee involvement, and proper workload management are crucial to minimizing negative effects and improving overall satisfaction.
Novelty: This study provides new insights into the nuanced impact of mergers on employee well-being, highlighting specific factors such as involvement in decision-making and post-merger compensation that have not been extensively covered in previous research.
Topographical Characteristics, Human Interactions, and Resource Boundaries in Tila Watershed, Nepal
Authors: Jaisi Ram Krishna , Shrestha Shobha
Published: November 2024

The geo-ecological fragility of rugged mountain topography with limited infrastructure development, and land capability constraints limit agriculture based livelihood options. The Tila Watershed of the Karnali region in Nepal with a high degree of fragility, marginality, and limited accessibility is no exception. A limited systematic analysis of dynamic interaction regarding land resources exists within the environmental (topography) and spatiotemporal (site distribution) contexts. This study explores the dynamic human environment interaction regarding land capability, and land resource utilization in traditional society vis-à-vis topographic limitations. An exploratory and analytical framework is adopted for assessing natural and human interrelationships. The primary data source includes Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and informal discussions with locals from the study watershed. The secondary sources are mostly existing maps and derived products besides literature reviews. Land use change between 2000-2010, 2010-2019, and 2000-2019 show that the watershed has come under moderate pressure on forest and grassland while the built-up area has gradually increased. Among eight land cover classes, there is positive change (gain) in five classes and negative change in three classes. It is found that agriculture between 2000-2010 has shifted towards higher topographic and climatic constraints areas. Slope aspect and elevation are the determinants of diverse cropping patterns on two sides of the Tila River. There is a shift in agriculture patterns from more traditional subsistence farming towards commercial practice indicating adaptation to the agro-forestry-based agriculture system. Local policy and regulation play a vital role in promoting sustainable land use and agricultural practices. The study concludes that a dynamic adaptive approach based on proven traditional practices as evident in the Tila watershed and improvement and refinements in malpractices offers positive effects on both the environment and human life.
Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Landslide Distribution and Its Impacts in Nepal
Authors: Sitaula Ravi , Sharma Puspa , Chidi Chhabi Lal , Acharya Sangam
Published: November 2024

Landslides pose a significant threat globally Nepal located in the Himalayas, exhibits diverse climatic zones and experiences a considerable amount of rainfall during the monsoon season. Landslide occurrences in Nepal are frequent, attributed to active seismotectonic activities, a fragile landscape, and land use practices. The spatial distribution of rainfall in Nepal varies by season due to the influence of different atmospheric phenomena. The study investigates the temporal and spatial patterns of rainfall-induced landslides in Nepal, over the past two decades with a specific focus on the impact of extreme precipitation events. Spearman rank correlation is employed to analyze monotonic relationship between the frequency of landslide incidents with the severity of impact. The results reveal an increasing trend in the number of landslide events and associated fatalities in Nepal, with a nonlinear relationship between events and deaths. Central Nepal experiences the highest concentration of deaths due to factors such as population growth, rural-urban migration, rapid urbanization, and haphazard road construction, particularly in rural areas. Furthermore, compared to the Tarai region and the mountains, the number of fatalities is higher in the hills.
Impacts of Foreign Employment on Social Cohesion: Insights from a Rural Village of Eastern Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Ritu Raj
Published: November 2024

Foreign employment has brought significant economic benefits and changes on the socio-economic situation of migrant households in Nepal. However, studies regarding the impact of foreign employment on social cohesion are limited. Hence, this study focuses on the impact of social cohesions in households and community levels taking the case of a large rural village from eastern Nepal. The study is based on qualitative research methodology applying three different but interconnected levels (individual, community and institution) in social cohesion perspectives. The study has found that household split (Anshabanda) is taking place much earlier in migrated families. The trend and volume of foreign employment-induced divorce cases among migrant couples are increasing rapidly compared to non-migrant households. Traditional cultures and practices are disappearing due to the absence of a large number of youths in the village. The study concludes that people’s motivation, perceptions, norms and values have changed over the time at both individual and community levels towards local cultures, borrowing behaviours and some other socio-cultural activities and performance, especially among migrant households and communities.
Population Growth Dynamics of Nepal: Evidence from Different Population Censuses
Authors: Pokhrel Baijayantimala , Baral Chandrakant
Published: November 2024

Demographics processes – birth, death and migration, determine the population size and the growth rate of any place. Changes in one of these components affect population growth and size. Higher population growth creates stress on natural resources while lower growth causes shortage of human resources for several development activities. Based on the population growth data from 1981 to 2021 published by Central Bureau of Statistics, and National Statistical Office of Nepal, this paper analyzes the patterns and trends of population growth by ecological regions and districts of Nepal. The findings show that a high population growth has observed before 2001 compared to the two successive censuses i.e. 1.35% in 2011 and 0.92% in 2021. A significant change has been observed in the number of districts with negative population growth in Hill and mountain regions. Before 2001, the Hill region had 1 to 2 % population growth in general and Tarai had above 2 % which has declined to 0 to 1 % and 1 to 2 % respectively in 2021. The low growth can have a number of, and far reaching consequences for development such as shortage of human resources in agricultural and other various development activities in the country. It is thus, Nepal needs to review its population policy along with its employment and development policy at large.
Skutki prawne wyboru Prezesa Rady Ministrów przez Sejm w trybie art. 154 ust. 3 Konstytucji
Authors: Grabowski Radosław
Published: November 2024

The opinion refers to the procedure of the appointment of the Council of Ministers under the basic procedure and the so-called reserve procedures provided for in the Polish Constitution. The author cites the constitutional principle of legalism, and the directive of cooperation to show the assumptions of the parliamentary-cabinet system. The analysis considers the procedure for the election of the Prime Minister in view of the prerogatives of the President and the powers of the Sejm depending on the mode of appointment of the new Council of Ministers. The opinion indicates that the President’s designation of the Prime Minister in the primary procedure is not arbitrary, and the selection must respect the Sejm’s majority. On the other hand, in the case of the selection of the Prime Minister by the Sejm under the reserve procedure, it does not imply automatic assumption of office, since it is necessary for the President to first issue a nomination order and take the oath of office from the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.
Objęcie urzędu przez Prezesa Rady Ministrów wybranego przez Sejm w trybie art. 154 ust. 3 Konstytucji RP
Authors: Juchniewicz Joanna
Published: November 2024

The opinion presents the problem of the election of the Prime Minister in the modes provided by the Constitution of the Republic of Poland. The differences between the parliamentary-cabinet system adopted in Poland and the presidential system, shown at the outset, are intended to give an idea of the powers of the President and the Sejm in the aforementioned systems of government. The procedure for the creation of a new Council of Ministers is analyzed in detail, with the author drawing attention to the so-called reserve procedure provided for in Article 154 para. 3 of the Constitution. This regulation orders the President to appoint the Prime Minister elected by the Sejm and, upon his request, the other members of the government, and to take the oath of office from them, whereas, according to the author, the President’s refusal in this regard would constitute a violation of the Constitution meeting the conditions of a constitutional tort.
Zgodność z prawem UE projektu ustawy o zmianie ustawy o ograniczeniu prowadzenia działalności gospodarczej przez osoby pełniące funkcje publiczne
Authors: Fryźlewicz Marcin
Published: November 2024

The analysis of the proposed amendments to the Act on Restriction of Business Activities of Persons Performing Public Functions involves expanding the scope of the Act’s subject matter. The article analyzes the proposed amendments for their compatibility with EU law. The author concludes that making property declarations regarding a spouse’s separate property available on the Public Information Bulletin may violate data protection laws, so the proposed privacy restrictions cannot be considered necessary to achieve the intended purposes. Considerations also include the possibility of questioning the compatibility with EU law of certain provisions providing for the restriction of EU freedoms, despite the fact that they are non-discriminatory in nature, as well as serve to achieve an overriding general interest. Indeed, in the author;s opinion, there is no justification of the necessity of the envisaged solutions for the intended purpose.
Harassment relating to the workplace
Authors: Bień Izabela
Published: November 2024

The study provides an overview of national legislation on workplace harassment. The author indicates the scope of subject and object of the regulations, as well as describing the mechanisms for monitoring and controlling this phenomenon. It also addresses the scope of support for victims and the range of penalties imposed on perpetrators of this type of abuse.
Projekt stanowiska przed TK dot. sprawy o sygn. akt SK 102/22
Authors: Spyra Marcin
Published: November 2024

The article presents the Sejm’s position on assessing the compatibility of Article 1 para. 9 of the Act of 15th December 2000 on Housing Cooperatives – providing for the exclusion of the application of the provisions on shares and entry fees as well as the obligation to submit a declaration in order to be admitted as a member of a cooperative, with the relevant provisions of the Constitution. The author refers to the constitutional complaint in SK 102/22 case, considering the possibility of a housing cooperative rejecting a claim for admission as a member of a housing cooperative by the owner of a residential property located in the common property managed by the cooperative. Analysis focuses on the Constitution’s guarantees of equality before the law, freedom of association and protection of property with respect to the rights of housing cooperatives as indicated in the Act on Housing Cooperatives, in particular, the right to decide on the acquisition of cooperative membership.
Optimising our GIRFT acute regional lithotripsy service—Improving efficiency and access for those most likely to benefit
Authors: Hughes Charlotte M , Irving Stuart O , Tsiotras Alexios , Rustin Phillip , Finch William J
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

NICE recommends the use of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) for the primary, definitive management of ureteric stones that are unlikely to pass or are causing intolerable pain. Our department hosts an acute regional ESWL service for treatment of ureteric stones, as championed by GIRFT. A quality improvement project was undertaken to improve access and efficiency of our service.

Methods:

A prospective database of patients attending for ureteric ESWL January−March 2022 was used. Patients attending for their first treatment were included, and their complete stone episode was assessed. Data were gathered on stone characteristics, treatment timescales, and outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher's exact and unpaired t-test.

Results:

One hundred and twenty patients were reviewed, of which 68 met inclusion criteria. Sixty-three percent of patients were treated, of which 91% experienced a successful stone clearance after a median of one treatment. 37% of patients were unable to be treated due to the stone not being localised; these patients had significantly smaller stones (5.2 mm versus 7.2 mm; p = 0.0017), lower density (607.9 HU [Hounsfield units] versus 767.8 HU; p = 0.0096) and a higher chance of spontaneous passage (Mimic Spontaneous Stone Passage score 60.9% versus 42.2%, p = 0.0017). Stone sizes <5 mm, density >500 HU, or Mimic Spontaneous Stone Passage score >60% are less likely to be localised. Patients referred from peripheral units waited significantly longer for their first treatment (17.1 days versus 7.4 days; p = 0.0118); however, they did not have a lower chance of treatment success (86% versus 91%; p = 0.6113).

Discussion:

We present a very effective service for those able to be treated. Parameters could be used, alongside individual clinical assessment, to consider patients primarily for a trial of conservative management. This would aim to reduce unnecessary attendances and thus, improve access and wait times for those most likely to benefit. Our results indicate that shorter wait times may not improve treatment success, but we anticipate benefit to patient experience. Further evaluation of longer wait for treatment should be conducted using patient-reported outcome measures.
Army spouses’ mental health treatment engagement: The role of barriers to care
Authors: Dodge Jessica R. , Sullivan Kathrine S. , Wortham Whitney , Nugent Katie , Castro Carl A. , Riviere Lyndon A.
Published: November 2024

LAY SUMMARY

Military spouses are exposed to unique stressors that could put them at greater risk for developing mental health issues. Understanding how to support them is important for military family well-being and service member retention. This study examines barriers to care that army spouses with at least mild mental health symptoms experienced and explores whether these barriers prevented them from seeking mental health treatment. Findings suggest military spouses experience a variety of barriers. Spouses experiencing mental health symptoms may struggle to get care if they have at least one child, are employed full- or part-time, or report greater stigma toward mental health care. Additional research is needed to better understand the complexity of barriers and how these barriers contribute to care over time.
лиматические изменения и энергетика
Authors: Агафонова Е.А. , Берёзкин М.Ю. , Бушуев В.В. , Вереземская П.С. , Дегтярев К.С. , Залиханов А.М. , Колпаков А.Ю. , Криницкий М.А. , Нефедова Л.В. , Показеев К.В. , Саенко В.В. , Синюгин О.А. , Соловьев Д.А. , Фёдоров В.М. , Фёдорова Е.В. , Фролов Д.М.
Published: November 2024

В монографию вошли статьи посвященные исследованиям в области взаимосвязи проблем изменения климата с низкоуглеродным развитием энергетики. Показано, что тенденция увеличения температурных аномалий и наблюдаемое глобальное потепление климата, в основном, определяются естественными причинами, и связаны с уменьшением наклона оси вращения Земли. Особое место в монографии отведено статьям, посвященным низкоуглеродному развитию в России, энергетическому переходу и развитию возобновляемых источников энергии. Обосновывается развитие возобновляемой энергетики на основе дифференцированного подхода к регионам страны, определённым энергетическим целям и задачам. Издание предназначено для широкой аудитории специалистов в области энергетики, географии, экономики, климатологии, преподавателей и научных сотрудников вузов, студентов и аспирантов.
"Sinemada Çok Katmanlı Anlatı: Inception (Başlangıç) Filmi Üzerinden Bir İnceleme"
Authors: Ozturk Ali
Published: November 2024

Sinemada anlatı, bir hikâyenin görsel ve işitsel öğelerle izleyiciye aktarılması sürecidir. Bu süreç, sinemanın yalnızca eğlence aracı olmanın ötesine geçerek, izleyiciyi derinlemesine düşündüren, duygusal bağlar kuran ve onları farklı dünyalara taşıyan bir araç olarak kullanılmasıdır. Sinema, bu amacına ulaşmak için çeşitli anlatı tekniklerinden faydalanır ve bu tekniklerden biri de katmanlı öykü anlatımıdır.
Katmanlı öykü anlatımı, sinemada izleyiciyi hikâyenin derinliklerine çekmenin ve onları zihinsel bir meydan okumaya davet etmenin etkili bir yoludur. Bu anlatım tekniği, zamanın doğrusal olmayan kullanımı, çok katmanlı hikayeler ve izleyiciye bilinçli kafa karışıklığı yaratma gibi unsurlarla karakterizedir. İzleyicinin filmle daha derin bir bağ kurmasını sağlamak amacıyla, olay örgüsü birden fazla düzlemde, çoğu zaman birbiri içine geçmiş yapılarla sunulur. Bu teknik, izleyicinin aktif bir katılımcı olmasını ve hikâyenin gizemlerini çözmeye çalışmasını teşvik etmektedir.
Bu makale, katmanlı öykü anlatımının unsurlarını Christopher Nolan'ın yönetmenliğini yaptığı "Inception" (Başlangıç) filmi üzerinden incelemektedir. Inception, katmanlı öykü anlatımının çarpıcı örneklerinden biridir ve izleyiciyi rüya içinde rüya konseptiyle çok katmanlı bir hikayenin içine çeker. Bu özellikler, izleyicinin hikayeye daha derinlemesine bağlanmasını ve olayların ardındaki karmaşık anlamları keşfetmesini sağlamaktadır.
Investigation of Emotional Experiences in the Homework Process: Adaptation of the Homework Related Emotions Scale to Turkish Culture
Authors: Avcı Süleyman , Özgenel Mustafa , Işkın Berin Esma , Kafadar Elif Nazlı , Kopuz Melike
Published: November 2024

The emotions that students experience during the homework process significantly impact academic outcomes. Although the importance of homework has been demonstrated by a small number of studies, its value in practice is poorly understood. In this study, the Homework Related Emotions Scale was adapted into Turkish. The adapted scale will support researchers in determining the variables that affect homework emotions and the variables affected by emotions. For the adaptation of the scale into Turkish, first-language equivalence studies were conducted, and then validity and reliability analyses were conducted. A total of 471 middle school students (31 for language equivalence, 220 for exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and 220 for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)) were included in the study. In the EFA and CFA analyses performed on the data, the scale was divided into five sub-dimensions by the original. The sub-dimensions of the scale measure five emotions, two positive and three negative; enjoyment, pride, anxiety, anger, and boredom. Cronbach's alpha coefficient, item total, AVE, and CR values also supported the validity and reliability of the scale. As a result, it can be said that the Homework Related Emotions Scale is suitable for use in Turkish culture. The scale can be used in scientific studies to determine the five emotions of middle school students toward math homework.
FİNANSAL OKURYAZARLIK VE İŞGÖREN PERFORMANSI: TURİZM ÖĞRENCİLERİNE YÖNELİK BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: Arslan Ayazlar Reyhan , Dağseven Sümeyye
Published: November 2024

Küreselleşme ile birlikte ülkeler arasındaki sınırların ortadan kalkması, bir ülkede yaşanan ekonomik sıkıntıların kelebek etkisi ile diğer ülkelere de yansımasına neden olmaktadır. Ülkelerin ekonomik refahının sağlanmasında vatandaşlarının bu konudaki tutum ve davranışlarının önemi kaçınılmazdır. Finansal tutum ve davranışlar, bir ülkede faaliyet gösteren işletmelerin bünyelerinde barındırdıkları işgörenlerin de olumlu ve/veya olumsuz etkilerine neden olabilmektedir. Bu durum ülke ekonomisine en fazla döviz girdisi sağlayan sektörlerden biri olan turizm için de geçerlidir. Finansal okuryazarlık sayesinde ekonomik dalgalanmalarda işgörenlerin bilinmezliklere karşı daha olumlu bir tutum içinde olabilmeleri söz konusudur. Bu doğrultuda araştırmanın amacı, turizm alanında lisans eğitimi alan öğrencilerin finansal okuryazarlıklarının işgören performanslarına olan etkisini ortaya koymak olarak belirlenmiştir. Araştırmada nicel bir yaklaşım benimsenmiş ve veri toplama tekniği olarak anket tekniğinden yararlanılmıştır. Araştırma dahilinde Muğla Sıtkı Koçman Üniversitesi Turizm Fakültesi’nde lisans düzeyinde öğrenim gören 284 öğrenciden veri elde edilmiştir. Araştırma bulgularına göre turizm öğrencilerinin finansal okuryazarlığı ile işgören performansı arasında pozitif yönde ve anlamlı bir ilişki bulunmaktadır. Öğrencilerin demografik özellikleri ile finansal okuryazarlıkları ele alındığında genel anlamda erkek öğrencilerin finansal davranış, dijital finansal tutum ve dijital finansal davranış alt boyutlarında daha yüksek farkındalığa sahip olduğu belirlenmiştir. Kadın öğrencilerin ise erkek öğrencilere kıyasla finansal bilgide farkındalık düzeyi yüksektir. Elde edilen bulgular sayesinde, turizm işletmelerinin verimliliği ve ekonomik anlamda okuryazarlık düzeyleri yüksek işgörenlere yönelik planlamalar yapmaları sağlanabilir.
Sequential Improvement Method in Probabilistic Criteria Optimization Problems for Linear-in-State Jump Diffusion Systems
Authors: Khrustalev M. M. , Tsar'kov K. A.
Published: November 2024

Here we study the problems of probabilistic and quantile optimization of multidimensional controllable jump diffusion. As the main tool we use Chebyshev-type probability estimates. With them the problems under consideration are reduced to one auxiliary deterministic optimal control problem in terms of the moment characteristics of the process. To find its solution, we use Krotov’s global improvement method.
The Guaranteeing Estimation Method to Calibrate a Gyro Unit
Authors: Akimov P. A. , Matasov A. I.
Published: November 2024

This paper is devoted to the guaranteeing estimation method with application to the calibration problem of a gyro unit. Mathematical models are constructed to describe the kinematics of the gyro unit on a test bench. The applicability limits and errors of the models are investigated. A numerical solution procedure is developed for guaranteeing estimation problems based on their reduction to l1-approximation problems.
Period-Time Parametric Identification Method for Solving Location and Navigation Tasks
Authors: Bulychev Yu. G. , Mozol' A. A.
Published: November 2024

With regard to location and navigation tasks for single-position passive observer, a bearing-free method for identifying parameters of a polynomial model of object motion has been developed taking into account evolution of the discrepancy between the periodic radiated and received quasi-periodic signal. The passage of a signal in an arbitrary physical environment is considered, at the same time, knowledge of the period of the emitted signal and assessing the current Doppler frequency are not required. The method is based on counting the number of periods of the received signal in a given surveillance intertissue. The issues related to the analysis of the resulting discrepancy by the observability of the method and its accuracy characteristics are considered. Useful practical recommendations and an illustrative context are given.
Method for Unmanned Vehicles Automatic Positioning Based on Signal Radially Symmetric Markers Recognition of Underwater Targets
Authors: Shakirzyanov R. M. , Shleymovich M. P. , Novikova S. V.
Published: November 2024

The article describes a method for automatically recognizing the target points of the trajectories of unmanned vehicles moving underwater, such as autonomous submarines and flying underwater vehicles of aircraft-like structures. The coordinate of the center of an object with radial symmetry properties is considered a terminal control point. A method for constructing a multiscale weighted image model based on the developed fast radial symmetry transformation and the Hough method is proposed, which ensures noise stability and high speed of calculating the coordinates of the desired point. When the object of interest has a contour of a specific color, a model is based on our proposed chromatic and weight components. As an example of detection, we have given an algorithm for detecting a base underwater station with light markers as a signal luminous ring
PI Controller Design for Suppressing Exogenous Disturbances
Authors: Khlebnikov M. V.
Published: November 2024

A novel approach is proposed to suppress bounded exogenous disturbances in linear control systems using a PI controller. The approach is based on reducing the original problem to a nonconvex matrix optimization problem. A gradient method for finding the controller’s parameters is derived and its justification is provided. The corresponding recurrence procedure is rather effective and yields quite satisfactory controllers in terms of engineering performance criteria. This paper continues a series of the author’s research works devoted to the design of feedback control laws from an optimization point of view.
Design of Suboptimal Robust Controllers Based on a Priori and Experimental Data
Authors: Kogan M. M. , Stepanov A. V.
Published: November 2024

This paper develops a novel unified approach to designing suboptimal robust control laws for uncertain objects with different criteria based on a priori information and experimental data. The guaranteed estimates of the γ0, generalized H2, and H∞ norms of a closed loop system and the corresponding suboptimal robust control laws are expressed in terms of solutions of linear matrix inequalities considering a priori knowledge and object modeling data. A numerical example demonstrates the improved quality of control systems when a priori and experimental data are used together.
Continuous Processes with Fuzzy States and Their Applications
Authors: Khatskevich V. L.
Published: November 2024

Scalar characteristics of continuous processes with fuzzy states—mean and correlation functions—are introduced and studied. Their algebraic properties as well as some properties related to the differentiation and integration of fuzzy functions of a real argument are established. The dependence between the characteristics of a fuzzy signal at the input and output of a dynamic system described by a high-order differential equation with constant coefficients is shown.
Parametric Algorithm for Finding a Guaranteed Solution to a Quantile Optimization Problem
Authors: Ivanov S. V. , Kibzun A. I. , Akmaeva V. N.
Published: November 2024

The problem of stochastic programming with a quantile criterion for a normal distribution is studied in the case of a loss function that is piecewise linear in random parameters and convex in strategy. Using the confidence method, the original problem is approximated by a deterministic minimax problem parameterized by the radius of a ball inscribed in a confidence polyhedral set. The approximating problem is reduced to a convex programming problem. The properties of the measure of the confidence set are investigated when the radius of the ball changes. An algorithm is proposed for finding the radius of a ball that provides a guaranteeing solution to the problem. A method for obtaining a lower estimate of the optimal value of the criterion function is described. The theorems are proved on the convergence of the algorithm with any predetermined probability and on the accuracy of the resulting solution.
Resolvents of the Ito Differential Equations Multiplicative with Respect to the State Vector
Authors: Shaykin M. E.
Published: November 2024

Integral representations of solutions of linear multiplicatively perturbed differential equations are obtained, the diffusion part of which is bilinear on the state vector and the vector of independent Wiener processes. Equations of such class serve as models of stochastic systems with control functioning under conditions of parametric uncertainty or undesirable influence of external disturbances. The concepts and analytical apparatus of the theory of Lie algebras are used to find integral representations and fundamental matrices of the equations.
Angular Motion Control of a Large Space Structure with Elastic Elements
Authors: Rutkovskiy V. Yu. , Glumov V. M. , Ermilov A. S.
Published: November 2024

The task of angular orientation and stabilization of a space structure during its assembly in orbit is solved. The structure includes elastic elements that are installed during the assembly process. The elastic elements of the structure have no sensors to obtain information about their deformation parameters. Control algorithms are proposed to ensure the stability of the angular motion of the structure. A nonlinear extended Kalman filter is used to obtain the necessary information. A joint estimation algorithm for the coordinates of the angular motion of the considered mechanical system and the coordinates of the elastic vibration tones, as well as an algorithm for the identification of their unobservable parameters are developed. The results of mathematical modeling of a variant of the mechanical system of a space structure are presented, which confirm the operability and efficiency of the developed algorithms for estimating coordinates and parameters.
Minimizing the Total Weighted Duration of Courses in a Single Machine Problem with Precedence Constraints
Authors: Musatova E. G. , Lazarev A. A.
Published: November 2024

A single machine scheduling problem with a given partial order of jobs is considered. There are subsets of jobs called courses. It is necessary to schedule jobs in such a way that the total weighted duration of all courses is minimal. We consider the case when the initial job and the final one of each course are uniquely determined. The NP-hardness of the problem under consideration is proved. We propose an algorithm for solving the problem, the complexity of which depends polynomially on the total number of jobs, but exponentially on the number of courses, which makes it possible to use it efficiently with a fixed small number of courses and an arbitrary number of jobs.
Terminal Control of Center of Mass Motion and Propellant Consumption in Liquid-Propellant Rocket Carriers
Authors: Ivanov V. P. , Zavadskiy V. K , Muranov A. A. , Chadaev A. I. , Kablova E. B. , Klenovaya L. G. , Tropova E. I.
Published: November 2024

We dedicate this work to the memory of academician B.N. Petrov. It develops the principles of terminal control of rocket carriers formulated by him. Next-generation rocket carriers implementthe principle of interconnected, coordinated terminal control of the center of mass motion and propellant consumption. In this article we consider the problem of synthesizing such control and the mainprinciples of its implementation.
Spectral Decompositions of Gramians and Energy Metrics of Continuous Unstable Control Systems
Authors: Yadykin I. B. , Galyaev I. A.
Published: November 2024

Deterministic continuous finite-dimensional stationary linear dynamic control systems with many inputs and many outputs are considered. Authors assume that the dynamics matrix can be both stable and unstable, but its eigenvalues are different, do not belong to the imaginary axis, and their pairwise sum is not equal to 0. The problems of constructing spectral solutions of the equations of state and matrices of gramian controllability of these systems, as well as the associated energy functionals of the degree of stability and reachability with the aim of optimal placement of sensors andactuators of multi-connected control systems and complex networks are considered. To solve the listed problems, the article uses various models of the system in state space: a general representation, as wellas a representation in various canonical forms. To calculate the spectral decompositions of controllability gramians, pseudo-Hankel matrices (Xiao matrices) are used. New methods have been proposedand algorithms have been developed for calculating controllability gramians and energy metrics of linear systems. The research results can be used for the optimal placement of sensors and actuators ofmulti-connected control systems or for control with minimal energy in complex networks of various natures
Approximate Method for Estimating Characteristics of Joint Service of Real-time Traffic and Elastic Data Traffic in Multiservice Access Nodes
Authors: Stepanov S. N. , Stepanov M. S.
Published: November 2024

A mathematical model of joint servicing of priority real-time traffic and elastic data traffic in multiservice access nodes has been constructed and studied. Definitions of quality indicators forjoint servicing of incoming requests for information services are provided. A system of statistical equilibrium equations is formed and its use for calculating the exact values of the introduced characteristics is considered. A method for approximate calculation of characteristics is proposed, based on the construction of a system of simplified equilibrium equations. It has been established that the obtained estimates of customer service indicators are asymptotically accurate in the region of large and small losses. The use of the developed method is shown to solve the problem of estimating the volume of traffic offloaded in an overload situation to other access nodes or to other frequency ranges in order to achieve values of specified QoS indicators and to solve the problem of planning the volume of required transmission resource of a multiservice access node.
Exponentially Stable Adaptive Control. Part III. Time-Varying Plants
Authors: Glushchenko A. I. , Lastochkin K. A.
Published: November 2024

A state-feedback adaptive control system is proposed for a class of linear systems in the controllable canonical form with time-varying unknown parameters described by known nonstationary exosystems with unknown initial conditions. The solution ensures global exponential stability of the closed-loop system in case a regressor is finitely exciting, and also does not require a priori informationabout the sign of the high-frequency gain (control direction). The obtained theoretical results are validated via mathematical modeling.
Optimization of Group Incentive Schemes
Authors: Burkov V. N. , Burkova I. V. , Kashenkov A. R.
Published: November 2024

This paper considers the problem of motivating the reduction of project duration. The duration cuts of project works and the corresponding costs are given. A group incentive scheme is used to compensate for the costs. In this scheme, all works are partitioned into groups and a unified incentive scheme is applied for each group. Two types of unified incentive schemes are studied for groups, namely, linear and jump ones. The problem is to partition all projectworks into groups and choose an appropriate incentive scheme for each group by minimizing the total incentive fund. Solution algorithms are proposed based on determining the shortestpath in the network. Special cases are also analyzed (partition with the minimum number of groups and partition with the maximum number of groups).
Structure formation of non-ionogenic block copolymer pluronic P123 under varying temperatures
Authors: Zavalyueva A. S. , Karpov S. I. , Dubovitskaya A. N. , Holyavka M. G. , Selemenev V. F.
Published: November 2024

The dynamic light scattering method was used to investigate the aqueous solutions of Pluronic P123 under different temperature, solvent, and quercetin additives. Significant changes in the average particle size and polydispersity index were revealed depending on the conditions. The effect of temperature on micelle formation of block copolymer in aqueous solution in the range T=15–45°C, the most commonly considered in the use of P123 in sol-gel synthesis of silica, was studied. The formation of micelles of the studied surfactant was greatly influenced by temperature, especially at T=15–20°C. In this temperature range, the size distribution of the scattering intensity has a polymodal character, which indicates the presence of macromolecules, micelles and their aggregates in the system. Further increase in temperature up to 45°C does not result in a significant change in particle size. In aqueous solutions, micelles with a narrow size distribution (minimum polydispersity index) are formed in the temperature ranges 21–25 and 35–40°C. Significant influence of alkanols and polyphenolic substances additives as solubilizers and able to influence the structure of micelles both in their volume and on the surface of polar parts of surfactants was noted. It is shown that in the presence of butanol-1 the stabilization of micelles at temperatures 15–20°C is observed. At T30°C rearrangements of the mesophase structure occur. As the proportion of butanol-1 in the solution increases, its influence is manifested at lower temperatures. It was noted that ethanol has a destructive effect on micelles. Quercetin additives exhibit the opposite micelle stabilizing effect, leading to the formation of a homogeneous surfactant structure. It is shown that by varying the solvent composition, it is possible to control the binding of flavonoid to micelle by changing the solvation. The greatest influence of quercetin on the structure formation of P123 was observed at the solvent composition corresponding to the molar ratio of ethanol and block copolymer n(EtOH):n(P123)=80:1.
Low-temperature synthesis of materials in the SrF2–ScF3 system and study of their electrical conductivity
Authors: Buchinskaya I. I. , Sorokin N. I.
Published: November 2024

Using the “soft chemistry” method (precipitation of HF from aqueous solutions of strontium chlorides SrCl2 and scandium chloride ScCl3) nanocrystalline samples of (100 − x) SrF2 × xScF3, 3 ≤ х ≤ 33 mol % compositions with an average grain size of ~20 nm were synthesized. From a solution of 95SrCl2 × 5ScCl3 a single-phase solid solution of Sr0.97Sc0.03F2.03 with a fluorite structure (CaF2-type, space group F) with a unit cell parameter a = 5.7959 ± 0.0016 Å was obtained. On a ceramic sample prepared from it by cold pressing and heated to a temperature of 831 K, the ionic conductivity in the cooling mode was measured, which is 6.4 × 10−6 S/cm at 673 K. The activation energy of ion transfer is 1.13 ± 0.04 eV. The conductivity of nanocrystalline Sr0.97Sc0.03F2.03 exceeds the electrical conductivity of a single crystal of the same composition by 3.5 times and is ~10 times less than the electrical conductivity of a single crystal Sr0.92Sc0.08F2.08.
Research of the photocatalytic activity of nano-sized powder and fiber based on nickel-zinc ferrite
Authors: Ivanin S. N. , Buz’ko V. Yu. , Yakupov R. P. , Suhno I. V.
Published: November 2024

Nano-sized powder and nanostructured fibers of nickel-zinc ferrite with the composition Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 were synthesized. By means of X-ray diffraction analysis, it was proven that the synthesized samples correspond to the nickel-zinc ferrite phase. Based on the data obtained, it was established that fibers based on nickel-zinc ferrite have a higher value of the crystal lattice parameter and crystallite size than the synthesized nano-sized powder. SEM data confirm that the samples under study consist of nanosized particles: 20–60 nm for powder and 20–40 nm for fibers. The optical diffuse reflection method was used to determine the band gap for Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 samples, which was 1.58 eV for fibers and 1.67 eV for powder. The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under the action of Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 samples of various morphologies has been studied. It was determined that a sample of nanostructured Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 fibers has greater photocatalytic activity, since the degree of degradation of methylene blue was 26% for nanofibers and 18% for nanopowder.
Politics in the journal “sotsiologicheskiye issledovaniya”: between ideology and episteme
Authors: Trofimova Irina N.
Published: November 2024

Each historical era is characterized by its own “episteme” – a general system of thinking and scientific theorizing. The episteme of politics in Russian sociology was formed in conditions of confrontation between ideology and scientific analysis, state patronage and academic freedom. The main stages are highlighted: 1) the first decade 1974–1984; 2) Perestroika 1985–1990; 3) 1990s; 4) 2000s. The journal «Sotsiologicheskiye issledovanya» is considered as a specific form of representation of professional knowledge and ways of knowing, determined by the current level of development of the discipline and the concept of the journal itself. The increasing complexity of the thematic structure, transdisciplinary approach, and the project-based and discussion-based nature of publications help overcome the epistemological uncertainty of politics.
PUBLIC ATTITUDE TOWARDS ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND ITS IMPLICATION IN LIFE PROGRESSION IN SRI LANKAN FINAL YEAR GOVERNMENT UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: ALLES S.S.
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the influence of family and surrounding networks on the English language competency of final-year undergraduates of Sri Lankan state universities. I analyze the language norms, practices, and attitudes of the Sri Lankan society and how they affect the potential opportunities associated with English language competency. The findings reveal that the final-year undergraduate population, who predominantly represent youth with middle-class backgrounds, demonstrate an average level of English skills. A noticeable disparity exists in the confidence to use the language, particularly in speaking and listening. Students from Westernized and English-based backgrounds are less influenced by societal biases compared to their peers with limited language access. These findings suggest that while English competency is critical in life success, its effect is moderated by the socioeconomic background the students are coming from. Policymakers and educators should understand this scenario and design strategies that will minimize the influence of socioeconomic background in acquiring English competency and the future life paths of state university students of Sri Lanka.
Niemieckie planowanie operacyjne do wojny z Polską 1938–1939 ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem roli Śląska oraz tzw. luki częstochowskiej
Authors: Koreś Daniel
Published: November 2024

The article presents an in-depth look at the issue of the operational goals of the 10th Army and their implementation, largely through the Częstochowa area, but also at the very beginning of the preparations for aggression against Poland. A close look at the German preparations for war with Poland allows us to move their beginning to late autumn of 1938, with political decisions in this respect invariably being made after 25 March 1939. This enables the creation of a study that combines both of these issues within the scope of one problem. With one of them resulting from the other, inextricably linked by a series of cause-and-effect events, with the gradual narrowing of the research area to one of the operational units subordinate to the command of German Army Group South (10th Army).
Benefits and risks of tryptophan supplementation
Authors: Halczuk Krzysztof Mariusz , Karwowski Bolesław
Published: November 2024

Wprowadzenie: Tryptofan (Trp), odkryty w 1901 roku przez Sir Fredericka Gowlanda Hopkinsa, jest jednym z ośmiu niezbędnych aminokwasów, które muszą być dostarczane z dietą. WHO zaleca dzienne spożycie Trp na poziomie 4 mg/kg masy ciała. Występuje w produktach bogatych w białko, takich jak mięso, ryby, jaja, nabiał, orzechy, nasiona i soja. Trp wspomaga rozwój mięśni, funkcje enzymów i jest prekursorem serotoniny, melatoniny oraz kynureniny, które wpływają na nastrój, sen oraz funkcje odpornościowe i związane z regulacją stanu zapalnego.
Cel badań: Celem niniejszej pracy jest przedstawienie najnowszych badań i obserwacji na temat wpływu tryptofanu na zdrowie psychiczne i nastrój człowieka, aby przybliżyć w przystępnej formie korzyści oraz ryzyka związane z zastosowaniem diety bogatej/ubogiej w tryptofan zarówno u osób zdrowych, jak i borykających się z zaburzeniami nastroju.
Materiał i metody: W celu zgromadzenia materiału do pracy przeprowadzono przegląd literatury naukowej z ostatnich 10 lat, koncentrując się na badaniach oryginalnych i klinicznych dotyczących metabolizmu tryptofanu oraz jego wpływu na zachowanie u ludzi. Uwzględniono również wyniki badań na modelach zwierzęcych. Przeszukano bazy danych PubMed i Web of Science, stosując następujące słowa kluczowe: „tryptophan”, „tryptophan metabolism”, „tryptophan and mental health”, „tryptophan and psychiatric diseases”, „serotonin metabolism”, „tryptophan in the diet”, „tryptophan supplementation”. Wyniki ograniczono do ostatnich 10 lat, ale w przypadku kluczowych badań klinicznych lub istotnych danych historycznych uwzględniono starsze publikacje.
Wyniki: Tryptofan odgrywa kluczową rolę w regulacji nastroju i snu jako prekursor serotoniny i melatoniny. Jego metabolity mogą działać neuroprotekcyjnie (kynurenina) lub neurotoksycznie (kwas chinolinowy, 3-hydroksykynurenina), a ich zaburzenia mogą prowadzić do depresji. Suplementacja Trp łagodzi objawy depresji i poprawia jakość snu, zwłaszcza u osób starszych i narażonych na zaburzenia nastroju. Próby zastosowania Trp w leczeniu otyłości i cukrzycy typu II nie przyniosły znaczących wyników. Trp wydaje się bezpieczny, nawet w dawkach znacznie wyższych od zalecanych.
Wnioski: Suplementacja tryptofanem może być pomocna w redukcji stresu, zaburzeń nastroju i problemów ze snem, ale nie jest skuteczna w kontrolowaniu masy ciała. Na podstawie przeanalizowanej literatury proponujemy, aby dzienna dawka tryptofanu w trakcie suplementacji wynosiła 1-3 g dziennie w dawkach podzielonych, ponieważ większe ilości nie zwiększają skuteczności działania. Należy unikać suplementacji u pacjentów przyjmujących leki wpływające na metabolizm serotoniny, ze względu na ryzyko zespołu serotoninowego.