bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Precision DOA Estimation Based on Synthetic Aperture and Sparse Reconstruction
Authors: Fang Yang , Wei Xiaolong , Ma Jianjun
Published: October 2023

The direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation is predominantly influenced by the antenna’s aperture size. However, space constraints on flight platforms often necessitate the use of antennas with smaller apertures and fewer array elements. This inevitably imposes limitations on the DOA estimation’s resolution and degrees of freedom. To address these precision constraints, we introduce an accurate DOA estimation method based on spatial synthetic aperture model. This method adopts a two-stage strategy to ensure both efficiency and precision in DOA estimation. Initially, the orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) reconstruction algorithm processes the original aperture data, providing a rough estimate of target angles that guides the aircraft’s flight direction. Subsequently, the early estimations merge with the aircraft’s motion space samples, forming equivalent spatially synthesized array samples. The refined angle estimation then employs the OMP-RELAX algorithm. Moreover, with the off-grid issue in mind, we devise an estimation method integrating Bayesian parameter estimation with dictionary sequence refinement. The proposed technique harnesses the spatial synthetic aperture for pinpoint estimation, effectively addressing the challenges of atomic orthogonality and angular off-grid on estimation accuracy. Importantly, the efficiency of deploying sparse reconstruction for angle estimation is bolstered by our phased strategy, eliminating the necessity for fine grid analysis across the entire observation scene. Moreover, the poor estimation accuracy caused by coherent source targets and angular-flickering targets is improved by sparse reconstruction. Through simulation and experiment, we affirm the proposed method’s efficacy in angle estimation. The results indicate that target angle estimation errors are limited to within 1°. Furthermore, we assess the impact of variables such as target state, heading angle, spatial sampling points, and target distance on the estimation accuracy of our method, showcasing its resilience and adaptability.
Beam Transmission (BTR) Software for Efficient Neutral Beam Injector Design and Tokamak Operation
Authors: Dlougach Eugenia , Kichik Margarita
Published: October 2023

BTR code (originally—“Beam Transmission and Re-ionization”, 1995) is used for Neutral Beam Injection (NBI) design; it is also applied to the injector system of ITER. In 2008, the BTR model was extended to include the beam interaction with plasmas and direct beam losses in tokamak. For many years, BTR has been widely used for various NBI designs for efficient heating and current drive in nuclear fusion devices for plasma scenario control and diagnostics. BTR analysis is especially important for ‘beam-driven’ fusion devices, such as fusion neutron source (FNS) tokamaks, since their operation depends on a high NBI input in non-inductive current drive and fusion yield. BTR calculates detailed power deposition maps and particle losses with an account of ionized beam fractions and background electromagnetic fields; these results are used for the overall NBI performance analysis. BTR code is open for public usage; it is fully interactive and supplied with an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI). The input configuration is flexibly adapted to any specific NBI geometry. High running speed and full control over the running options allow the user to perform multiple parametric runs on the fly. The paper describes the detailed physics of BTR, numerical methods, graphical user interface, and examples of BTR application. The code is still in evolution; basic support is available to all BTR users.
Biosynthesis, Optical and Magnetic Properties of Fe-Doped ZnO/C Nanoparticles
Authors: Abd-Elkader Omar H. , Nasrallah Mai , Aleya Lotfi , Nasrallah Mohamed
Published: October 2023

Employing a self-combustion method supported by egg white, pure and Fe-doped ZnO/C nanoparticles successfully biosynthesized. XRD, FTIR, Raman, SEM/EDS and TEM measurements were used to characterize the pure and doped systems. The materials under investigation’s optical, surface and magnetic characteristics were recognized. Only one zinc oxide crystalline phase exhibiting a hexagonal shape comparable to wurtzite was present in the systems of pure and Fe-doped ZnO/C. Due to the variation in ionic radii, doping ZnO/C system with iron ions resulted in a decrease in unit cell volume; it revealed that ions of iron had been integrated into the lattice of zinc oxides. FTIR analysis shows characteristic vibration modes related to ZnO and that of carbon groups, confirming the formation of the ZnO/C system. In a perfect match with the IR data, which represent two bands at 1120 and 1399 cm−1 attributed to carbon groups, the Raman analysis shows that in the freshly manufactured materials, sp2 and disordered G and D carbon bands have both graphitized. Fe-doping of the ZnO/C system with different amounts of iron ions resulted in the change in the size and agglomeration of the particle’s system. The doped ZnO/C system has a surface area smaller than that of the pure system due to the decrease in both the mean pore radius and the total pore volume. Doping the ZnO/C system with 2 and 5 mol% Fe2O3 resulted in optical band gaps expanding from 3.17 eV to 3.27 eV and 3.57 eV, respectively. Due to the doping with iron ions, a magnetic transition from a fully diamagnetic state to a slightly ferromagnetic state was detected.
Symmetric Adaptive Higher-Order Energy-Preserving Methods for a Charged Particle System and Guiding Center System
Authors: Zhu Beibei , Zhou Hongji
Published: October 2023

We propose higher-order adaptive energy-preserving methods for a charged particle system and a guiding center system. The higher-order energy-preserving methods are symmetric and are constructed by composing the second-order energy-preserving methods based on the averaged vector field. In order to overcome the energy drift problem that occurs in the energy-preserving methods based on the average vector field, we develop two adaptive algorithms for the higher-order energy-preserving methods. The two adaptive algorithms are developed based on using variable points of Gauss–Legendre’s quadrature rule and using two different stepsizes. The numerical results show that the two adaptive algorithms behave better in phase portrait and energy conservation than the Runge–Kutta methods. Moreover, it is shown that the energy errors obtained by the two adaptive algorithms can be bounded by the machine precision over long time and do not show energy drift.
The Tomosynthesis Broken Halo Sign: Diagnostic Utility for the Classification of Newly Diagnosed Breast Tumors
Authors: Deeg Johannes , Swoboda Michael , Egle Daniel , Wieser Verena , Soleiman Afschin , Ladenhauf Valentin , Galijasevic Malik , Amort Birgit , Haushammer Silke , Daniaux Martin , Gruber Leonhard
Published: October 2023

Background: Compared to conventional 2D mammography, digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) offers greater breast lesion detection rates. Ring-like hypodense artifacts surrounding dense lesions are a common byproduct of DBT. This study’s purpose was to assess whether minuscule changes spanning this halo—termed the “broken halo sign”—could improve lesion classification. Methods: This retrospective study was approved by the local ethics review board. After screening 288 consecutive patients, DBT studies of 191 female participants referred for routine mammography with a subsequent histologically verified finding of the breast were assessed. Examined variables included patient age, histological diagnosis, architectural distortion, maximum size, maximum halo depth, conspicuous margins, irregular shape and broken halo sign. Results: While a higher halo strength was indicative of malignancy in general (p = 0.031), the broken halo sign was strongly associated with malignancy (p < 0.0001, odds ratio (OR) 6.33), alongside architectural distortion (p = 0.012, OR 3.49) and a diffuse margin (p = 0.006, OR 5.49). This was especially true for denser breasts (ACR C/D), where the broken halo sign was the only factor predicting malignancy (p = 0.03, 5.22 OR). Conclusion: DBT-associated halo artifacts warrant thorough investigation in newly found breast lesions as they are associated with malignant tumors. The “broken halo sign”—the presence of small lines of variable diameter spanning the peritumoral areas of hypodensity—is a strong indicator of malignancy, especially in dense breasts, where architectural distortion may be obfuscated due to the surrounding tissue.
Exploring Tomato Fruit Viromes through Transcriptome Data Analysis
Authors: Jo Yeonhwa , Choi Hoseong , Lee Bong Choon , Hong Jin-Sung , Kim Sang-Min , Cho Won Kyong
Published: October 2023

This study delves into the complex landscape of viral infections in tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) using available transcriptome data. We conducted a virome analysis, revealing 219 viral contigs linked to four distinct viruses: tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV), southern tomato virus (STV), tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV). Among these, ToCV predominated in contig count, followed by STV, TYLCV, and CMV. A notable finding was the prevalence of coinfections, emphasizing the concurrent presence of multiple viruses in tomato plants. Despite generally low viral levels in fruit transcriptomes, STV emerged as the primary virus based on viral read count. We delved deeper into viral abundance and the contributions of RNA segments to replication. While initially focused on studying the impact of sound treatment on tomato fruit transcriptomes, the unexpected viral presence underscores the importance of considering viruses in plant research. Geographical variations in virome communities hint at potential forensic applications. Phylogenetic analysis provided insights into viral origins and genetic diversity, enhancing our understanding of the Korean tomato virome. In conclusion, this study advances our knowledge of the tomato virome, stressing the need for robust pest control in greenhouse-grown tomatoes and offering insights into virus management and crop protection.
Not Just a Toy: Puppets for Autistic Teenagers
Authors: Karaolis Olivia
Published: October 2023

The benefits of puppetry for children in therapeutic and educational contexts are well established, with puppets shown to have improved children’s learning, their relationships with adults and other children, and their self-confidence and communication. Adding to this research is an emerging body of evidence that shows the many benefits of puppets for autistic children both as a form of early intervention and as a teaching strategy in the early years of schooling. This paper examines the qualitative literature that describes the value of puppets for autistic teenagers and young people to see how the object of puppets may maintain relevance for older students in secondary school and as they transition out of school and how puppets can enhance the already established advantages seen in younger children. An online search was conducted of peer-reviewed journals through the university library, followed by an additional search using the same keywords on Google Scholar. The review highlighted the possibilities of puppetry for many educational purposes and the wellbeing of autistic adolescents and young people. Also found were a significant gap in the research and the need for further studies that apply puppetry to this diverse population.
Influence of ozone therapy on emotional and pain stress in women with adenomyosis
Authors:   FSBI CPE Central State Medical Academy of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, Uraeva Ya. I. , Ivanova I. I. ,   FSBI CPE Central State Medical Academy of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, Lazarenko N. N. ,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: October 2023

Relevance. Adenomyosis (or endometriosis) is a common and intractable disease, which, according to various studies, affects up to 45 % of women of reproductive age worldwide and is often aggravated by the presence of chronic pelvic pain leading to the development of psycho-emotional disorders. Objective: To study the effect of complex treatment, including ozone therapy, on emotional and pain stress in women with diffuse adenomyosis stage II. Subject and methods. An open randomized controlled study was conducted in 40 women with stage II diffuse adenomyosis aged 32.5 ± 9.4 years, who were divided into two groups. Group 1 (control, n = 10) received standard drug therapy; group 2 (main group, n = 30) received additional ozone therapy. The effectiveness of the treatment was assessed using the VAS scale and the MH component of the SF-36 questionnaire, as well as statistical analysis before treatment, after treatment, and after 1, 3 and 6 months of follow-up. Results and discussion. Before the start of treatment, the patients in both groups showed significant differences in the VAS scale and the MH component compared to the norm, which confirmed a significant deterioration in their socio-psychological status, as well as the presence of severe pain. After the course of treatment and up to 6 months in the 2nd (main) group, the VAS score and MH components tended to their physiological norm. At the same time, in the patients in the 2nd (main) group, a statistically significant strong inverse correlation between VAS scores and the MH component was revealed. In the patients in the 1st (control) group, the studied parameters changed little during treatment, which was evidence of the insufficient analgesic effect of drug therapy and a high level of neuropsychic distress and emotional instability in these patients. Conclusion. The inclusion of ozone therapy in complex treatment for the patients in the 2nd (main) group contributed to a decrease in the severity of pain and symptoms of mental trauma. In addition, the trend line of the VAS indicator and the MN component tended to its normal values, which indicated a positive forecast for two more future periods. In the patients in the 1st (control) group who received only drug therapy, no significant improvement was observed.
Physiotherapy methods in medical rehabilitation of children with scoliosis
Authors:   SAHI Moscow Centre for Research and Practice in Medical Rehabilitation, Restorative and Sports Medicine of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia, Khan M. A. ,   SBHI N. F. Filatov Children»s City Clinical Hospital of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia, Talkovsky E. M. ,   SAHI Moscow Centre for Research and Practice in Medical Rehabilitation, Restorative and Sports Medicine of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia, Vybornov D. Yu. ,   SBHI N. F. Filatov Children»s City Clinical Hospital of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia; FSAEI HE Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Russia, Kuyantseva L. V. ,   SBHI N. F. Filatov Children»s City Clinical Hospital of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia, Tarasov N. I. ,   SBHI N. F. Filatov Children»s City Clinical Hospital of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia, Koroteev V. V. ,   SBHI N. F. Filatov Children»s City Clinical Hospital of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russia, Korchazhkina N. B. ,   FSBSI Petrovsky National Research Centre of Surgery, Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2023

The article presents a review of the literature on the prevalence, relevance, and social significance of scoliosis in children. Much attention is given to the role and place of physiotherapy methods used in medical rehabilitation programs for children with scoliotic spinal deformity. Impulse currents occupy key positions among the numerous methods of physiotherapy for scoliosis (SMT, DDT, interference therapy, etc.) due to their specific effect on the neuromuscular apparatus in order to increase the tone of weakened muscles. The article presents the results of studies on the use of high-intensity impulse magnetic therapy, EHF therapy, vibrotherapy, biofeedback therapy (BFB), etc. in medical rehabilitation of scoliotic spinal deformity in children. In recent years, the role of balneotherapy and climatotherapy at the sanatorium-resort stage of the rehabilitation of such patients has increased. The methods of physiotherapy presented in the work are quite diverse, have different efficiency, and can be individually used in combination with physiotherapy exercises in numerous programs for medical rehabilitation of children with scoliosis.
Antecedents of individuals’ participation in the community of practice
Authors: Alotaibi Arif Nasser
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to explore the impact of outcome expectations on individuals’ participation in the community of practice. It examines the impact of expected association, expected contribution and expected support on individuals’ participation in community of practice. Data collected through questionnaire from 216 participants working in healthcare sector in Saudi Arabia to test the research hypotheses. The results of this study indicate that expected association and expected support have significant positive impact on individuals’ participation in community of practice. Whereas, expect contribution found to have a negative impact on individuals’ participation in community of practice. This research offer empirical evidence on the impact of individual factors such as outcome expectations on the involvement of individuals in the community of practice in their organizations. Moreover, the results shed new light on the impact of the contextual factors that may diminish the impact of outcome expectations factors such as job localization.
Ensuring the competitiveness of the coastal region based on the study of the impact of cluster analysis results on the development of tourism in the conditions of the regenerative ecosystem
Authors: Gudz Petro , Gudz Maryna , Bezkhlibna Anastasiia , Zaytseva Valentina , Brutman Anna
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the study is to determine the indicators’ influence of regenerative ecosystem competitiveness cluster analysis on the development of tourism in the coastal region.

The method of cluster analysis allowed analyzing the Ukrainian region competitiveness in their territories’ distinguishing with similar indicators in social and economic development. This method was applied in the assessment process of the Ukrainian coastal region's competitiveness, which has direct territorial access to the sea. This grouping covered indicators from various industries, selected basically on an understanding of the constituent elements of competitiveness such as tourism, production, infrastructure, demography and local finances. It was considered on the basis of a complex grouping of economic (business processes), social (human capital) and administrative-management (administration) indicators. This made it possible to reveal the similarity of the social and economic development of the coastal regions in dynamics, which have direct access to the sea and opportunities to conduct economic activities related to the maritime economy.

The cluster analysis results formed an appropriate informational and analytical justification for the guideline selection for the regional strategic policy of the regenerative ecosystems’ competitive increasing as a basis for planning the actions of local authority bodies.
Psychological features of training future social workers
Authors: Kuznetsova Olena , Сhubuk Ruslan , Maiboroda Oksana , Khoroshev Oleksandr , Maksimov Dafna Sharon
Published: October 2023

Social work belongs to professions that have emerged and established themselves to meet urgent societal needs. The purpose of specialists in this field is not only to create necessary conditions for the social protection of people, groups, and communities but also to foster their ability to build their lives and mobilize internal resources to overcome life crises. The article aims to characterize the practical significance and types of social work while exploring the essence of psychological aspects in the professional activity of social workers. The main directions of the article are to investigate the interrelation between social work and psychology and to clarify the psychological features of education for future social workers. Several research methods were employed, including general scientific methods such as synthesis, analysis, deduction, and induction, which helped determine the research goal and conduct the analytical processing of scientific sources. It enabled the structuring of available domestic and foreign literature on psychological and social work matters and the historiographic and retrospective methods. The research findings reveal vital theoretical aspects of psychological preparation for future social workers during their educational process. The study of scientific-practical materials allowed identifying essential trends in training for social work professionals.
Language legislation in the era of independence: sociolinguistic dimension
Authors: Kozak Valentyna , Posmitna Viktoriia , Shutenko Svitlana , Leshchenko Anzhelika , Romaniuk Viktoriia
Published: October 2023

The objective of the paper is to examine the sociolinguistic dimension of language legislation in Ukraine. The study focuses on the impact of the “language issue” on Ukrainian society in the context of war as well as to analyse linguistic representations, ideologies, and attitudes and their impact on the linguistic behaviour of Ukrainians. A resource for activating interpersonal solidarity and resistance to the enemy, and for modulating the manifestation of individual positions in macrosociological and political relations that may arise in the process of interaction. With the help of a critical approach to the theoretical guidelines of the study the role of language legislation in shaping language policy and regulating the use of languages in various spheres of life is analysed. The issues of linguistic equality, diglossia, and language policy in relation to minority languages are considered. The most important issue of the paper is that the language legislation of the independence era in Ukraine is of great importance for the sociolinguistic development of society. In times of war, it affects language processes, language policy, and the total transition to the state language.

Excluding the language of the enemy, however, does not mean levelling all languages. It is important to strike a balance between protecting the language rights of citizens and preserving linguistic diversity in the country.
Cultural and historical factors influencing the verbalization of aggression in English journalistic texts: a comparative analysis of modern and historical texts
Authors: Slipetska Vira , Ishchenko Yevhenii , Melnychuk Nataliia , Symaka Anna , Makoviichuk Liliana
Published: October 2023

Aim. This study is aimed at analysing the influence of cultural and historical factors on the verbalization of aggression in English journalistic texts. Methods. The work employs the method of analysing lexical units, the grammatical method of analysing aggressive markers, and the method of stylistic text analysis. Mathematical methods of data processing included descriptive average, analysis of optimal values, Cronbach’s alpha. Results. In the first half of the 19th century, there were significant indicators of the use of aggressive vocabulary, in particular the words “attack” and “assault” at about 30% and 25%, respectively. These figures, however, decreased to 25% and 20% during the 21st century. The words “bombard”, “demolish” and “destroy” also showed a decreased frequency of use from the 19th to the 21st century from 20%, 15% and 10% to 15%, 10% and 5% respectively. Conclusions. The study of aggressive stylistic means in journalistic texts revealed that the use of aggressive vocabulary in media discourse has increased in recent centuries. Exceptions are warnings about the tendency to deepen aggressive expressions in communication. Continued monitoring and analysis of such stylistic devices is important for understanding the dynamics and impact of language aggression in modern society. Prospects. Prospects for further research on aggressive stylistic means in journalistic texts are the study of the impact of these means on the perception by the audience, their emotional reaction, and psychological state.
Renegotiating the narrative: EQ students’ attitudes and engagement in relation to the language of the Socioeconomic Equity ‘EQ’ Project and inequity
Authors:   , Rangi Ana
Published: October 2023

The Socioeconomic Equity (EQ) Project is a comprehensive programme of support for students from decile 1-3 secondary schools in Health Sciences at the University of Otago. It is underpinned by Māori values and was established in 2019 to increase the number of students from lower socioeconomic communities progressing through health professional study and ultimately into the health workforce. Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and/or low decile schools are significantly underrepresented in tertiary study. They are more likely to experience socioeconomic and educational disadvantage, be the first in family to enter university study, and have English as an additional language. A student’s school decile does not reflect individual socioeconomic status but those who attend low decile schools have lived awareness and understanding of the diverse challenges of these communities. Socioeconomic status, inequality and inequity are sensitive and subjective topics to engage with but engagement is essential — for EQ student outcomes and funding, but also to actively effect change to broad and systemic societal inequity. Acknowledgement of socioeconomic disadvantage and discrimination in policy and practice reflects the University’s commitment to equity through health professional graduates that represent, and are more responsive to, the communities they serve. This research examines how we talk about inequity, acknowledge unfair advantage, and authentically address its outcomes as a community. It explores how we frame our desire for a ‘fair society’ despite increasing disparity and wide-ranging inequity. This research project specifically explores how we address inequity within a tertiary education context, through the narratives of students from decile 1-3 secondary schools supported by the EQ Project in their health sciences study at the University of Otago. It investigates EQ students’ attitudes and engagement in relation to the language of the EQ Project and inequity — the current ‘EQ narrative’ as EQ students experience it. It aims to challenge existing assumptions of language and cultural appropriateness by premising the lived knowledge of EQ students within a new co-constructed ‘renegotiated narrative’ of communication and engagement.
EUROSCEPTICISM IN THE PROGRAMME PRINCIPLES OF THE SPANISH RIGHT-WING RADICAL PARTY «VOX»
Authors: Karaman K. ,   Mariupol State University
Published: October 2023

The article examines the programme principles of the right-wing radical party «Vox» in Spain. The factors that influenced its emergence and further development are studied, the factors that led to the growth of the popularity of this political force are identified. The specific features of Spanish nationalism, the role of the historical past and Catholicism in its formation are analysed. A special role in the study is given to the analysis of manifestations of Euroscepticism in the activities of the Voice. It is noted that it is moderate in nature and focuses primarily on the desire to strengthen the role of national governments, rejecting any supranational governance bodies whose decisions would be binding on EU member states. An analysis of the party's programme documents and speeches by its leaders shows that nationalism is the key dominant cluster, and the issue of European integration is not a priority in them. In these documents, «Vox» acts as an opponent of the EU on a number of issues related to the country's participation in the EU and its activities. While criticising the EU and revealing the negative consequences of Spain's participation in this structure, «Vox» and its leaders have never raised the issue of the country's withdrawal from the EU. Its criticism is primarily related to the rejection of the model in which the integration process is implemented. The party does not accept the EU's course towards federalisation and further expansion of its functions at the expense of the sovereignty of national states. «Vox» presents its voters with its vision of the model for the implementation of European integration. The European Union should become a community of free nations that cooperate with each other and join forces in areas where they can definitely achieve much faster and more efficiently together than separately. The peculiarity of the Voice is that a significant place in its programme documents is occupied by foreign policy issues, in particular, EU foreign policy. The party and its leaders fully support the EU's policy towards Russia in the Ukrainian crisis. They are in favour of developing EU-Spain relations with the US and NATO. The analysis of the party documents of «Vox» allows us to conclude that the issue of European integration is not central to the party. Criticism of the EU and the inclusion of this topic in the party's ideological postulates stem from its ideological basis, formed on the basis of key concepts of Spanish nationalism, adapted to the realities of Spain's modern development and the challenges it faces in the context of globalisation. Keywords: Spain, political party, Euroscepticism, «Vox», right-wing radicalism.
POLITICAL REPRESSIONS IN THE BORDER REGIONS OF VOLYN IN THE 1920S AND 1930S
Authors:   Borys Grinchenko Kyiv University, Bon O.
Published: October 2023

The article investigates the reasons, forms and consequences of the political repressions in the border areas of Volyn in Soviet Ukraine in the 1920s and 1930s. In the period between the First and Second World War, after the defeat in the fight for sovereignty, Ukrainian territories were divided between several countries. This created a border problem. In particular, Volyn, being under the rule of Soviet Ukraine and Poland, became an arena of struggle of the communist system, which did not abandon the idea of spreading its influence over Western Europe. The first were brutal repressions by the Bolsheviks against the peasant insurgent movement, which rose up in Volyn as well as in other regions against the policy of “war communism”. By means of ruthless extrajudicial massacres, the use of military force, hostages, and social division of the village, when the poor population was opposed to other classes, the Bolsheviks managed to suppress the peasant rebellion. However, it was only in the mid-1920s that it became possible to completely overcome “political banditry”, as the communist authorities called it. A peculiarity of the peasant insurgent movement in the Volyn region was its orientation towards the sovereignty of the Ukrainian People's Republic. A new wave of uprisings tooke place during the period of collectivization and dekulakization between 1920s and 1930s. They were classified by the authorities as "counter-revolutionary" protests. The materials of a separate folder of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the CP(b)U, where the most secret documents were collected, testify to the complete control of the judicial system and the determination of the work of the prosecutor's office and punitive bodies. Specifically, political cases were investigated, in which insurgents, people who cooperated with Polish intelligence and saboteurs were repressed based on the materials of the special commission on political affairs created by the Politburo. This data shows that a significant part of the population opposed the Bolshevik regime. Another form of the communist regime repressions was the deportation of the disloyal population into the interior of Ukraine and the USSR. This way, the ethnic map of the region was being changed and the most loyal population was being settled instead. Moreover, this process can be considered a contribution to the creation of fortified districts in the border regions. According to the military doctrine of the Bolshevik leadership, they were supposed to become a barrier to the advance of the enemy in the inevitably upcoming war. This preparation was also enhanced by training and transferring of subversive groups and agents into the territory of neighboring Poland. Thus, the border regions of Volyn became an arena of subversive and counter-subversive struggle. Key words: political repressions, border regions, Volyn, 1920s, 1930s, separate folder of the Politburo, political cases, Olevsk.
LEGITIMATION TECHNOLOGIES IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THEORY AND PRACTICE
Authors:   Oles Gonchar Dnipro National University, Koptiev O.
Published: October 2023

Legitimation technologies in international relations are an important means of influencing and regulating relations between states. They are used to acquire legitimacy, support and recognition of political power, as well as to create a favorable international environment for the realization of political and economic interests. Various legitimation technologies are used in international relations, which help political leaders and organizations gain legitimacy in the eyes of the public. Among the most common are: election processes. constitution and legal framework, public support and legitimacy, mass media and mass media, allied communication technologies, two-vector policy, soft power and others. The scientific novelty can be accounted for by the review of legitimation technologies in solving key challenges in international relations, in particular, in times of geopolitical changes and Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The effectiveness of the use of authentication technologies in Ukraine and its role in maintaining and improving attitudes toward the country, attracting international support, and developing partnerships were investigated. Thus, the study expands the understanding of legitimation technologies as a tool that can be used to improve the image of Ukraine, its influence on global international processes, as well as social, cultural and economic enrichment. By applying a technological approach, the main authentication technologies used in the international arena are analyzed. Based on the research of Ukrainian and foreign specialists, a review of this technology is carried ou; the effectiveness of the use of authentication technologies as regulatory tools in international relations is outlined. Strategic areas of activity and effective use of identification technologies in Ukraine during the war and changes in the vector of development in international relations have been formed. The fakes can be used by the authorities to improve the image of the state and its recognition in the international arena. Keywords: world politics; legitimation; публічна дипломатія; public diplomacy; digital diplomacy; soft power.
Myocardial Protection With Remote Ischemic Preconditioning In Congenital Heart Surgery: Does It Deliver What Is Expected?
Authors: ARSLAN Akın , CANTÜRK Emir , AKSOY Turgut
Published: October 2023

Objective: The discovery of the protective effects of antioxidant agents on organ functions enabled this system to be tested artificially. The impact of remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) on surgical clinical outcomes in patients with congenital heart defects is unclear. This study investigated the early consequences of ischemic preconditioning on cardiac protection.
Methods: The study was designed prospectively. Cuffs were applied to one leg of patients in Group 1 (RIPC) after induction of anesthesia in three cycles (5 min inflation followed by 5 min reperfusion) to precondition ischemia-reperfusion. Antioxidant and cardiac marker levels were recorded in blood samples.
Results: The patients' surgical median age was 19.1 months (IQR= 3.7- 57.7 months) in Group 1 (RIPC) and 16.7 months (IQR= 7.8- 35.9 months) in Group 2 (Control). The patients' median follow-up period was 58.3 months (IQR= 54.3- 62.1 months) in group 1 and 37.1 months (IQR= 34.8- 41.7 months) in group 2. Hospital mortality was in 7 (10.4%) patients. There was no late mortality. There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (p<005).
Conclusion: The effects of ischemic preconditioning on cardiac protection have not been proven yet. Especially in congenital cardiac patients, chronic stimuli such as hypoxia and cyanosis or drugs used before surgery may affect the study’s results. Although there is no significant difference in mortality in these patients, a positive effect on the length of hospital stay is promising.
First-Principles Study of Titanium and Lithium Adsorption on Perfect and Defective Hexagonal Boron Nitride Monolayer Under Effects of Charging
Authors: SALMANKURT Bahadır
Published: October 2023

Single Titanium (Ti) and Lithium (Li) atoms adsorption on Pristine and defective hexagonal boron nitride (P-h-BN and BV-h-BN) monolayer were employed using Density Functional Theory (DFT) under effect of charging. Obtained data reveal that Li adsorption on P-h-BN is weak, while Ti adsorption on P-h-BN is strong. When Ti and Li atoms interact with P-h-BN surface, Ti and Li generate 4 µB/cell and 1 µB/cell magnetic moments, respectively. The extraction of an electron from the systems leads to a considerable rise in the adsorption energy, notably in the case of Li-P-h-BN. There is a notable decrease in the band gap of Ti-P-h-BN in both the charged states, especially in the electron-added state. Removing an electron from the Li-P-h-BN system results in a non-magnetic state and a significant increase of the band gap to 4.07 eV. Ti-BV-h-BN system shows significantly stronger adsorption energy due to the d-orbitals of the Ti atom. When an electron is added to the systems, the interaction energy between Ti and BV-h-BN decreases, while the interaction energy between Li and BV-h-BN increases. Moreover, removing an electron from Ti-BN-h-BN increases the band gap to 2.29 eV and the disappearance of the magnetic moment.
Genome Investigation of Brucella melitensis Strains Isolated From Brucellosis Patients in Kuwait
Authors: Mustafa Abu Salim , Khan Mohd Wasif , Habibi Nazima
Published: October 2023

Background: Human brucellosis is present on all inhabited continents with high prevalence in many areas of the world, including Kuwait and the Middle East. To implement proper control measures, the identification and characterization of Brucella species and genotypes are required through a reliable and rapid subtyping method. In previous studies, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has shown its potential as an epidemiological typing tool. Using WGS data, this study aimed to identify the species, phage sequences, putative antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors, and genotypes of Brucella melitensis strains isolated from patients in Kuwait and other countries. Methods: Five B. melitensis isolates of Kuwaiti origin and 31 other isolates of B. melitensis originating from 28 countries were analyzed using whole genome-based approaches for genotypic identification and typing. In-silico techniques were used to identify the sequences for phages, antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors, and genotypes using multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and whole-genome single-nucleotide polymorphism (wgSNP). Results: The analysis of WGS data demonstrated that all five Kuwaiti isolates belonged to the non-vaccine strains of B. melitensis. Furthermore, the data represented the presence of two phage sequences, two antibiotic resistance genes, and 51 virulence factors in Kuwaiti isolates. Eventually, the genotypes of all isolates were identified based on MLST and wgSNP analysis, and wgSNP analysis suggested the possible areas/countries of origin of Kuwaiti isolates. Conclusion: WGS data can be used to characterize Brucella isolates, and molecular techniques can be applied in-silico to rapidly identify and classify Brucella into species and genotypes and trace the possible origin of the isolates.
Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli Pathotypes Among Children under 5 Years in Khuzestan, Iran
Authors: Tatar Susan , Rezatofighi Seyedeh Elham , Akhoond Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2023

Background: Diarrhea is a life-threatening cause of high mortality, especially among children living in areas with poor sanitation. Enterobacteriaceae is one of the serious causes of bacterial diarrhea in children and adults. In this family, infection with diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) pathotypes in children is associated with extensive health risks and is of particular importance. In this study, we compared the distribution of pathotypes, epidemiological patterns, and antibiotic resistance of DEC in two diarrheal and non-diarrheal groups among children less than 5 years. Methods: In this study, 303 stool samples were collected from patients admitted to Golestan hospitals in Ahvaz and Dr. Ganjavian in Dezful, Khuzestan. To this end, 201 samples from children with diarrhea (case group) and 102 samples from healthy children (control group) were examined. DEC was characterized by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for each stool sample, and DEC isolates were tested with antibiotic resistance tests against different antibiotic agents to identify the prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains in both groups. Results: DEC was found in 24% (48 out of 200) of the children with diarrhea and 3.8% (4 out of 103) of the healthy children. Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) was the DEC most frequently associated with diarrhea (32 out of 48, 66.6%), which was followed by enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) 22.9% (11 out of 48, 22.9%), and enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) (5 out of 48, 10.4%) from children with diarrhea. Four DEC isolates were identified in healthy children: EAEC (2 out of 4, 50%) and EPEC (2 out of 4, 50%) in the healthy group, but no enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC) or enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) strains were found in both groups in this study group. In general, DEC isolates exhibited high resistance to ceftriaxone and cefotaxime, and 33 (63.4%) isolates of DEC were MDR. Conclusion: A high prevalence of DEC strains was observed in the group of children with diarrhea and healthy children. Accordingly, further attention should be paid to continuous monitoring of the prevalence and pattern of antibiotic resistance of diarrheal bacterial isolates among children and the whole community.
Variability on the Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Ruppia cirrhosa Extract Using Two Different Methods of Extraction
Authors: Chaabani Emna , Bettaieb Rebey Iness , Aidi Wannes Wissem , Ksouri Riadh , Shili Abdessalem
Published: October 2023

Background: Nowadays, there is increasing attention to the discovery of new bioactive substances from marine sources. This research aimed to characterize the phytochemical composition as well as antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Tunisian Ruppia cirrhosa extracts (RCEs) using two different extraction methods. Methods: RCEs were obtained by two different extraction methods: maceration and successive extraction. The determination of polyphenolic contents and antioxidant activity was made by calorimetric assay, and the effect of RCE was observed against pathogenic bacteria and fungi using the solid diffusion method. Results: The successive extraction of R. cirrhosa extract relatively showed higher total phenol (38.1 mg GAE/g) and condensed tannin (18.07 mg CE/g) contents than the maceration extraction (35.43 mg EAG/g and 12.99 mg CE/g, respectively). However, the total flavonoid amount of RCE was higher in the maceration extraction (33.09 mg CE/g) than in the successive extraction (21.27 mg CE/g). The total antioxidant capacity of RCE indicated a decrease in this activity after fractionation. Indeed, the activity of RCE decreased from 47.8 to 37.83 mg GAE/g, and RCE obtained by the two extraction methods showed moderate antioxidant activity using reducing power (IC50=380-490 µg/mL) and β-carotene bleaching (IC50=110-310 μg/mL) assays. Furthermore, RCEs obtained by maceration had the greatest antibacterial activity against all tested strains (IZ=3.33-9.33 mm) except Salmonella typhimurium (IZ=2 mm), Enterococcus faecalis (IZ=6 mm), and Streptococcus aureus (3.67 mm) as compared to those obtained by successive extraction. The strains of Candida had a sensitivity for R. cirrhosa extracts obtained by maceration. Indeed, R. cirrhosa extracts obtained by successive extraction had higher inhibitory activity against Candida krusei deduced through an inhibition diameter of 6 mm. Conclusion: It can be concluded that R. cirrhosa extract is rich in bioactive molecules, and it has an extremely promising biological potential.
Evaluation of Antimicrobial Effects of Nisin/Chitosan Composite on Cotton Fabric Textile
Authors: Mirhosseini Mahboubeh , Afzali Maede , Molla Hoseini Hosein , Khaleghizadeh Sara
Published: October 2023

Background: The spread of nosocomial infections may be caused by contact between the patient’s body and textile materials used in medical practices. Therefore, it is necessary to use effective antimicrobial textiles to prevent the transmission of pathogenic bacteria and the occurrence of infections. Methods: In this research, chitosan was utilized to bind nisin to the surface of cotton fabric. The binding properties of nisin on the fabric were explored using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The antibacterial effectiveness of fabrics against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterococcus faecalis was measured. The durability of the antimicrobial properties of these fabrics was checked after 10 washing cycles. Additionally, the toxicity of this fabric on fibroblast cells was determined using the MTT colorimetry after 7 days. Results: Chitosan-nisin formed a homogeneous and colorless layer on the cotton fabric. Antibacterial results showed that nisin improved the antibacterial effect of coated fabrics against all tested bacteria. The antimicrobial properties of the fabric coated with chitosan-nisin were maintained at approximately 100%, 17.26%, 8.55%, 2.98%, 1.38%, and 17.4% efficacy against B. cereus, S. aureus, E. faecalis, L. monocytogenes, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa, respectively. Furthermore, the chitosan-nisin coating demonstrated no significant toxic effect on fibroblast cells even after 1 week. Conclusion: The results suggest that the chitosan-nisin coating could be utilized in the production of medical textiles and underwear. Moreover, it offers an innovative solution to protect human health and the environment.