bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Early-Life Antibiotics Administration on the Immune Response to Newcastle Disease Lasota Vaccination and Weight Indices of Broiler Chicken
Authors: Madubuike K. G. , Okoroafor O. N. , Asuzu I. U.
Published: July 2020

The administration of antibiotics to day old chicks as a means of prevention or treatment of suspected hatchery or farm-borne infections is common, especially in developing countries. This practice could contribute to a poor immune response following Newcastle disease (ND)-LaSota vaccinations, in addition to the sluggish growth in broiler chickens. This study was aimed at determining: the antibody titre to ND-LaSota vaccine, live weight, weight gain and feed conversion efficiency (FCE) of broiler chicken exposed early to gentamicin and doxycycline. One hundred, day-old broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 25). Group 1 served as a control, while groups 2 and 4 received gentamycin and doxycycline, respectively. The chicks in group 3 were treated with a combination of gentamicin and doxycycline (1 : 1). All drugs were administered via the drinking water from the 2nd to the 6th day of the chicks’ life. On day 18, the birds received ND-LaSota vaccine intraocularly. At weekly intervals, the post-vaccination antibody titre, live weight and weight gain were determined. The feed conversion efficiency (FCE) of the different groups was calculated at the end of the experiments. The results showed that the NDV antibody titre of the antibiotic-treated groups did not differ significantly (P < 0.05) from that of the control. However, there was a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the live weight, weight gain and FCE of the control birds when compared to the antibiotic-treated groups.
How to measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on quality of life: COV19-QoL – the development, reliability and validity of a new scale
Authors: Repišti Selman , Jovanović Nikolina , Kuzman Martina Rojnić , Medved Sara , Jerotić Stefan , Ribić Emina , Majstorović Tihana , Simoska Silvana Markovska , Novotni Ljubisha , Milutinović Miloš , Stoilkovska Biljana Blazevska , Radojičić Tamara , Ristić Ivan , Zebić Mirjana , Pemovska Tamara , Russo Manuela
Published: July 2020

Objective

The primary objective of this paper is to present a short measure of perceptions on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on quality of life, along with analysis of its reliability and validity in non-clinical and clinical samples.

Methods

The scale was named The COV19 – Impact on Quality of Life (COV19-QoL) and it consists of six items presented in the form of a 5-point Likert scale. The items (i.e. statements) cover main areas of quality of life with regard to mental health. The scale was administered to 1346 participants from the general population in Croatia (the non-clinical sample) and 201 patients with severe mental illness recruited from four European countries (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia), constituting the clinical sample. The clinical sample was part of the randomised controlled trial IMPULSE funded by the European Commission. Data on age and gender were collected for both samples, along with psychiatric diagnoses collected for the clinical sample.

Results

Main findings included a high internal consistency of the scale and a moderate to strong positive correlation among participants’ scores on different items. Principal component analysis yielded one latent component. The correlation between participants’ age and their results on COV19-QoL was negligible. Participants’ perceived quality of life was the most impacted domain, whereas mental health, personal safety and levels of depression were the least impacted domains by the pandemic.

Discussion

The COV19-QoL is a reliable and valid scale which can be used to explore the impact of COVID-19 on quality of life. The scale can be successfully used by researchers and clinicians interested in the impact of the pandemic on people experiencing various pre-existing mental health issues (e.g. anxiety, mood and personality disorders) as well as those without such issues.
A Novel Protocol Permitting the Use of Frozen Cell Cultures on Low Earth Orbit
Authors: Kidder L. S. , Zea L. , Countryman SM , Stodieck L. S. , Hammer B. E.
Published: July 2020

Cell culture on orbit is complicated by numerous operational constraints, including g-loads on the ascent, vibrations, transit time to International Space Station, and delays in experiment initiation. Cryopreserving cells before launch would negate these factors. However, defrosting these cells is problematic, since the traditional method of employing a water bath is not possible. We here describe a unique apparatus designed to accomplish this in a microgravitational environment. This apparatus resulted in rapid defrost of cryopreserved cell cultures and allowed successful tissue culture operations on the station for periods of up to 21 days.
The effect of presence and power in the pastoral supervisory relationship
Authors: Mullally Bill
Published: July 2020

This article addresses the important elements of presence and power in the pastoral supervisory relationship. It is based on qualitative research, which used a questionnaire methodology with six Methodist ministers, all of whom had taken part in group pastoral supervision for a period of two years. The aim of this research was to gain insight into their experience of the supervisory process. The article explores how an open, authentic and trusting environment can be created within the pastoral supervisory relationship that has regenerative and healing potential, whereby ministers will be better able to face the challenges of ministry. It contends there is a need for well-qualified, skilled and spiritually sensitive supervisory support for ministers. Such pastoral supervisors will understand the dynamics of power and presence to create a sacred space for ministers to ‘come apart and reflect a while’. This covenant relationship creates transformational possibilities for those who commit to the journey.
Making the invisible Christ visible: problems and opportunities for Wesleyan Christology
Authors: Bailey George
Published: July 2020

Wesley's Christology has been critiqued as inadequate and potentially unorthodox in a variety of ways, some of them contradictory. The most telling critical analysis has been by John Deschner (1960, 1985, 1988) using Reformed christological categories in his research supervised by Karl Barth. While affirming the Methodist emphases on ‘the whole Christ’ and ‘the present Christ’ in soteriological perspective, he also asks pressing questions about how Wesleyan theology can resolve apparent tensions between Christ and the law, and how it can better express the wholeness of Christ, moving beyond individual soteriology towards a more comprehensive vision of ecclesial wholeness and the wholeness of the human community. Wesleyan theologians have in turn responded to these questions in a range of ways, with varying success. What are the parameters and prospects for Wesleyan Christology in the light of this debate, and how does this relate to the contemporary missiological context?
The Gender Patenting Gap: A Study on the Iberoamerican Countries
Authors: Carvalho Danilo S. , Bares Lydia , Silva Kelyane
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This work presents a study on the female involvement in patent applications in all 23 Ibero-American countries that are WIPO members, in order to measure gender inequalities in institutional collaborations and technological fields, across time.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used in this paper come from EPO Worldwide Patent Statistical Database (PATSTAT). PATSTAT contains bibliographical data relating to more than 100 million patent documents from leading industrialized and developing countries, as well as legal event data from more than 40 patent authorities contained in the EPO worldwide legal event data (INPADOC). The extracted subset is composed of 150,863 patent applications with priority years between 2007 and 2016.

Findings

Our observations indicate that even in more dynamic economies such as Portugal and Spain, the participation of women per patent applications does not exceed 30%. Additionally, the distribution of female participation among institutional sectors and technological fields is consistent with previous studies in other regions and indicate a socio-cultural divide.

Research limitations

Unisex names were not considered and were counted as gender unknown, and patent applications for which no inventor information was available were discarded, but further effort of data analysis may provide more information about gender inequalities.

Practical implications

While patents are imperfect variables of inventive step and therefore should be considered as a variable proxy of innovation, our findings may help to guide the implementation of policies for balancing gender participation in innovative activities, as well as instigating research into the issues causing divisive participation along gender lines.

Originality/value

While there is a widespread effort into evaluating and improving the participation of groups recognized as minorities within state-of-the-art activities, research about women participation in the innovation sector is fragmented due to differing regional characteristics: industrial and academic segmentation, socio-economic disparities, and cultural factors. Thus, localized studies present an opportunity of filling the gaps of knowledge on societal participation in innovation activities.
Welcomed and Unwanted: Uncertainty and Possession in a Manasā Cult (North Bengal and West Assam, India)
Authors: Ryzhakova Svetlana
Published: July 2020

Manasā is a very important goddess of the eastern part of India, particularly for the lower castes of Bengal, West Assam, some districts of Odisha, Jharkhand and Bihar. She is the main goddess for the majority of Rajbansis of North Bengal. The fluid border between deities, witches and human beings is an essential part of both her myth and cult. Being a Tāntric deity, Manasā has an extremely ambivalent character: according to the narratives and ritualistic practice she is at the same time both welcomed and unwanted. Her worship involves negotiation with dangerous divine power, which generates insecurity and uncertainty, but at the same time rewards adepts with wonderful abilities. This paper is based on ethnographic fieldwork conducted by the author in rural places in the Jalpaiguri, Koch-Behar, Goalpara and Darrang districts of West Bengal and Assam, India, among Rajbansis, Bodo Kachari and Assamees. The details of Manasā worship, Behula dance and storytelling by Bengali Monośa gidal, and in a form of Assamese suknāni ojha-palli (with deodhani dance and trance) will reveal a peculiar local knowledge system, directly aimed at overcoming and transforming mundane life crises.
Migrant and Autochthonous Traditions within Udmurt Folksong (on the Example of the Siberian Udmurt)
Authors: Anisimov Nikolai , Pchelovodova Irina , Sofronova Ekaterina
Published: July 2020

This article* investigates, for the first time, the local musical tradition of the Udmurt of Chainsk district (Tomsk oblast). The overwhelming majority of migrants in this region arrived from the Sharkan district of the Udmurt Republic, in Siberia, at the beginning of the 20th century. For a long time they kept their original culture in an ethnically alien environment. However, at the beginning of the 21st century, their singing tradition started to fade under the influence of different factors (such as the disappearance of Udmurt rituals and festivals, as well as mixed marriages). The aim of this article is to compare the ‘Chainsk migrational’ singing tradition to the ‘Sharkan original’ musical tradition. The main collection of audio recordings covering the Chainsk district Udmurt musical tradition is conserved in the archives of the Udmurt Research Institute at the Russian Academy of sciences.1 It is comprised of fieldwork material gathered by researchers from the Institute in 1974 and 2006. We discovered new sources of audio and video recordings of the singing tradition in this territory, which allowed us to integrate more song samples. The analysis of both traditions reveals the basic genres of ritual singing, each of which has been examined from the point of view of the topic of the poetic text, the mood structures, and the metro-rhythmic and melodic peculiarities of their development.
Proper Surgical Treatment of Small and Medium Size Umbilical Hernias. A Single Surgeon Experience
Authors: Élthes Etele , Sala Daniela , Neagoe Radu Mircea , Székely János , Dénes Márton
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Minimally invasive surgical procedures have become routine interventions nowadays and represent an effective therapeutic option even for small umbilical hernias, providing favorable postoperative and aesthetic results.

Aim of study: To determine the most appropriate minimally invasive treatment option for small and medium size umbilical hernias.

Materials and methods: We conducted a prospective study on 50 patients with small or medium umbilical hernia (<4 cm). All patients benefited of minimal invasive surgery with mesh implantation. Depending on the surgical procedure, two major groups were defined: group A – patients with open surgical approach (n = 24) and group B – patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery (n = 26). Clinical, surgical, postoperative, and follow-up data were analyzed.

Results: Mesh replacement via open approach through the umbilicus was associated with significantly reduced surgical time (p = 0.0359), administration of painkillers (p = 0.0461), and use of anticoagulants (p = 0.0404). Hospital stays (p = 0.0001) and costs (p = 0.0005) were also significantly lower in this group. After 6 months of follow-up, no recurrence was observed, and no significant differences were detected regarding postoperative pain and the patients’ professional reintegration. Patient satisfaction regarding postoperative scar was superior in the open group.

Conclusion: The present study indicates that the ventral patch technique is a safe and effective method for the treatment of small and medium size umbilical hernias.
The application of corticosteroids in COVID-19: A two-edged sword
Authors: Li Na , Jie Zhijun
Published: July 2020

COVID-19 has become a global pandemic and requires the whole world to respond together. There is no specific antiviral treatment recommended at present for COVID-19. The patients must receive the supportive care to help relieve the symptoms and ensure appropriate infection control. Whether or not to use corticosteroids clinically caused controversy. This article has summarized previous researches about the using of corticosteroids in other viral pneumonia, related clinical data in COVID-19, and recommendations in Chinese guideline.
Psychological Process, Social and Environmental Influence on Retirement Planning: Malaysian Energy Industry Perspective
Authors: Jais Juraifa Bte , Asokumar Anusha
Published: July 2020

Malaysia currently begins to follow the global trends of an ageing population and expected to be an aged nation by 2040. Due to the unprecedented demographic patterns, ageing population coupled with longer longevity has posed a challenge, as most of the working individuals are still unprepared and not ready to face retirement because of poor planning for their golden years. Similarly, there is a growing aging workforce in the Malaysian energy industry that begets attention for retirement planning. Lack of adequate planning can be an obstacle to achieve a desired retirement life. Therefore, this study examined the determinants (i.e. psychological process, social influence and environmental influence) of employees’ retirement planning in the Malaysian energy industry. This study used a life-course, ecological theory to illustrate the relations between the constructs and retirement planning. This study relied on quantitative approach. A total of 171 questionnaires were collected from employees of the energy industry and were analysed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed hypotheses. The results indicated that the psychological process, social influence and environmental influence have a positive association towards employees’ retirement planning in Malaysian energy industry. This study will also highlight some suggestions for improvement to encourage the employees to start saving early to achieve a sustainable quality retired life.
Prospects and Challenges of Market Entry for Austrian Companies in an Emerging Market – the Case of Chile
Authors: Rotter Stefan , Bobek Vito , Horvat Tatjana
Published: July 2020

Chile is, compared to several other South American countries, geographically and demographically rather limited, but despite that it is the second most important trading and investment partner for Austria in this region. The aim of this paper is to gain firsthand insights into the motivations and perceptions of the entry of Austrian firms into the Chilean market by using an exploratory research approach.Interviews with thirteen qualified and experienced persons were conducted and analyzed, using Mayring’s qualitative content analysis. The Chilean market is an attractive opportunity for Austrian firms, as it performs quite well in international business environment rankings. The study results indicate a variety of motivationsfor entering the market, as well as diverse entry mode decisions based on numerous factors, together with a prevailing positive perception of the Chilean business environment. Several results probably cannot be generalized for the entire country, as the capital city is the center of business, and research in other regions of Chile might have different results. Challenges have been identified in the matters of language, distance, time, culture, recruitment, complexity, local partners and the indigenous population. Chile is a highly developed emerging market where doing business faces few obstacles. Therefore, the country represents a very attractive location in South America with great potential for Austrian companies.
214Bi/214Pb radioactivity ratio three-year monitoring in rainwater in Prague
Authors: Ambrosino Fabrizio , Thinová Lenka , Hýža Miroslav , Sabbarese Carlo
Published: July 2020

Continuous monitoring of natural gamma radiation in air has been carried out, during December 2014 – January 2018, with 1-min cyclic measurement in Prague, Czech Republic using a NaI(Tl) probe. The 214Bi/214Pb ratio as a tracer in rainwater has been investigated to study its variations related to both the ambient dose equivalent rate per hour and the amount of rainfall. A hybrid methodology for time series analysis, composed of the aggregation of two signal decomposition methods (multiple linear regression and empirical mode decomposition) and one forecasting method (support vector regression), has been applied to identify the anomalies in the studied signals in order to better find correlations among them. The results show a strong correlation between the ambient dose equivalent rate and the 214Bi/214Pb ratio values and between both these signals and rainfall amount ≥5 mm/h. Furthermore, the considered descendants of radon are mainly responsible for the overall ambient dose equivalent rate.
Indoor and outdoor 222Rn and 220Rn and their progeny levels surrounding Bayan Obo mine, China
Authors: Wang Nanping , Hu Miao , Zeng Weihua , Yu Cong , Jia Binlin , Yang Zhijie
Published: July 2020

More than half of the total natural ionizing radiation dose received by the human population is caused by radon and thoron (Rn and Tn) and their progeny. To estimate the level of radiation due to radon and thoron and their progeny, an investigation was conducted in a residential area near the world’s largest open-pit mine of Bayan Obo in Inner Mongolia, China. The concentration of Rn, Tn, and their decay products in air and soil were studied by using AlphaGUARD, RAD7, and ERS-RDM-2S for a discrete period of time in three different locations. The average indoor concentration of radon and thoron was 62.6 ± 44.6 Bq/m3 and 108.3 ± 94.5 Bq/m3 respectively, and the outdoor concentration was 12.9 ± 6.3 Bq/m3 and 55.8 ± 18.5 Bq/m3, respectively. Relatively high concentrations were recorded in the area near to the mine, with a significant increasing trend observed in indoor thoron concentration. A prominent hotspot in thoron concentration was found in a single-story house with values 747 ± 150 Bq/m3. The equilibrium equivalent thoron concentration (EECTn) varies from 0.48 Bq/m3 to 2.36 Bq/m3 with an arithmetic mean of 1.37 ± 0.64 Bq/m3, and comparatively higher than EECRn. Concluding that the mining activity at Bayan Obo mine is significantly increasing the level of indoor thoron and its progeny in surroundings. It is suggested to further systematically investigate the indoor Rn and Tn progeny concentrations in the residential dwellings of the Bayan Obo mining area, and 232Th content of the building materials, to provide a basis for calculating the radiation dose.
Not Only in Cities: Creative Activities in Rural Areas with a Case Study of Lower Silesia
Authors: Janc Krzysztof , Raczyk Andrzej , Dołzbłasz Sylwia
Published: July 2020

The objective of the present study is to identify rules governing the distribution and thematic structure of creative activities, using the region of Lower Silesia in southwestern Poland as an example. This empirical study is based on the data obtained from the Central Registration and Information on Business (CEIDG) as of 2018. Rural areas (compared to cities) generally display a lower level of economic activity. Analysis results confirm that craft-based activities are usually carried out outside large cities. A clear structure of specialisation among creative activities indicates that rural areas should mainly undertake activities that are consistent with the character of a particular local setting and are strongly connected with local conditions.
Spatial and Landscape Changes in the Housing Development of Gdańsk Suburban Villages
Authors: Poczobut Joanna
Published: July 2020

In the article the specificity of development of Gdańsk suburban villages is considered. The data from recent years concerning demographic changes in communes will be analysed. The analysis of four selected villages will show the settlement changes and contemporary non-rural types of buildings. Spatial processes, which in terms of an extensive rural economy have already led to the change and depreciation of qualities of their current order and landscape, will be described.
Experimental Study on the Placement of the Angle and the Distance of Parallel Skimming Walls to Reduce Inlet Sediment in a Lateral Intake
Authors: Farshidnia Sadegh , Saneie Mojtaba , Hajikandi Hooman , Rostami Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Parallel skimming walls are regarded as one of the more efficient methods for controlling inlet sediment to a lateral intake. The present study attempts to experimentally scrutinize the impact of the angles of parallel skimming walls (θ), the corresponding distance (b), and the discharge variations of the main channel of the inlet sediment for the control of an intake. First, the impacts of parallel skimming walls incorporating three angles (θ = 0°, 15°, 30°), located in the front section of the intake and the distance between the walls (b=10 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm), were studied. A dimensional analysis showed the dimensionless extraction ratios and the relation between the variables in a laboratory. The results indicate that parallel skimming walls lead to average decreases of 69%, 41% and 26% in the amount of inlet sediment to the intake, for walls with angles of 0°, 15° and 30°, respectively. With regard to the distance between the walls, average decreases of 58%, 70% and 86% were observed for walls with placement distances of b/H=2.5, b/H=5 and b/ H=7.5, respectively.
Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) Based on a Geospatial Information System (GIS)
Authors: Asli Hossein Hariri , Arabani Mahyar , Golpour Yaser
Published: July 2020

A Geospatial Information System (GIS) is a system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geospatial data. Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) based on the GIS is one of the indirect and efficient methods in identifying areas. In this work, an analytical computational process combined with a spatial analysis was used to identify pavement zones for a city. The zoning results were categorized in four classes, including very high, high, medium risk, and low risk zones. The high and very high risk zones have been considered as a whole. The work circumstances include the Mean Profile Depth (MPD) data as a function of the number of wheel passes and the temperature; ten (10) specimens were selected from a set of 23 specimens. The results showed a good correlation between the parameters, including the number of wheels passing, the temperature, and the MPD.
Single-Site Binding of Pyrene to Poly(ester-Imide)s Incorporating Long Spacer Units: Prediction of NMR Resonance-Patterns from a Fractal Model
Authors: Knappert Marcus , Jin Tianqi , Midgley Scott D. , Wu Guanglu , Scherman Oren , Grau-crespo Ricardo , Colquhoun Howard
Published: July 2020

Co-polycondensation of the diimide-based diols N,N'-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)hexafluoro-isopropylidene-diphthalimide, (HFDI), and N,N'-bis(2-hydroxy-ethyl)naphthalene-1,4,5,8-tetracarboxylic-diimide, (NDI), with aliphatic diacyl chlorides ClOC(CH2)xCOCl (x = 5 to 8) affords linear copoly(ester-imide)s. Such copolymers interact with pyrene via supramolecular binding of the polycyclic aromatic molecule at NDI residues. This results in upfield complexation shifts and sequence-related splittings of the NDI 1H NMR resonances, but gives a very different resonance-pattern from the corresponding copolymer where x = 2. Computational modelling of the polymer with x = 5 suggests that, in this system, each pyrene molecule binds to just a single NDI residue rather than to an adjacent pair of NDI's in a tight chain-fold ("dual-site" binding) as found for x = 2. The new single-site binding model enables the pattern of 1H NMR resonances for copolymers with longer spacers (x = 5 to 8) to be reproduced and assigned by simulation from sequence-specific shielding factors based on the fractal known as the fourth-quarter Cantor set. As this set also enables an understanding of dual-site binding systems, it evidently provides a general numerical framework for supramolecular sequence-analysis in binary copolymers.
Modeling the Ternary Chalcogenide Na2MoSe4 from First-Principles
Authors: Palos Etienne , Reyes-Serrato Armando , Alonso-Nuñez Gabriel , Sánchez J. Guerrero
Published: July 2020

In the ongoing pursuit of inorganic compounds suitable for solid-state devices, transition metal chalcogenides have received heightened attention due to their physical and chemical properties. Recently, alkali-ion transition metal chalcogenides have been explored as promising candidates to be applied in optoelectronics, photovoltaics and energy storage devices. In this work, we present a comprehensive theoretical study of sodium molybdenum selenide (Na2MoSe4). First-principles computations were performed on a set of hypothetical crystal structures to determine the ground state and electronic properties of Na2MoSe4. We find that the equilibrium structure of Na2MoSe4 is a simple orthorhombic (oP) lattice, with space group Pnma, as evidenced by thermodynamics. Electronic structure computations reveal that three phases are semiconducting, while one (cF) is metallic. Relativistic effects and Coulomb interaction of localized electrons were assessed for the oP phase, and found to have a negligible influence on the band strucutre. Finally, meta-GGA computations were performed to model the band structure of primitive orthorhombic Na2MoSe4 at a predictive level. We employ the Tran-Blaha modified Becke-Johnson potential to demonstrate that oP Na2MoSe4 is a semiconductor with a direct bandgap of 0.53 eV at the Γ point. Our results provide a foundation for future studies concerned with the modeling of inorganic and hybrid organic-inorganic materials chemically analogous to Na2MoSe4.
Identical Anomalous Raman Relaxation Exponent in a Family of Single Ion Magnets: Towards Reliable Raman Relaxation Determination?
Authors: Handzlik Gabriela , Magott Michał , Arczyński Mirosław , Sheveleva Alena M. , Tuna Floriana , Baran Stanisław , Pinkowicz Dawid
Published: July 2020

Propeller-like lanthanide complexes with suitable chiral ligand scaffolds are highly desired as they combine chirality and magnetic bistability. However, the library of relevant chiral molecules is quite limited. Herein we present the preparation, structures, magnetic behavior as well as EPR studies of a series of propeller-shaped lanthanide Single Ion Magnets (SIMs). Coordination of the smallest helicene-type molecule 1,10-phenanthroline-N,N’-dioxide (phendo) to LnIII ions results in the formation of homoleptic complexes [LnIII(phendo)4](NO3)3∙xMeOH (Ln = Gd, Er, Yb) Gd, Er and Yb, where four phendos encircle the metal center equatorially in a four-bladed propeller fashion. The magnetization dynamics in these systems is studied by magnetic measurements and EPR spectroscopy for non-diluted as well as solid state dilutions of Er and Yb in a diamagnetic [YIII(phendo)4](NO3)3∙xMeOH (Y) matrix. Careful analysis of the slow magnetic relaxation in the diluted samples can be described by a combination of Raman and Orbach relaxation mechanisms. The most important finding concerns the identical power law τ ≈ T -3 describing the anomalous Raman relaxation for all three reported compounds diluted in the Y matrix. This identical power law strongly suggests that the exponent of the Raman relaxation process in the series of solid-state diluted isostructural compounds is practically independent of the metal ion (as long as the molar mass changes are negligible) and highlights a possible strategy towards a reliable Raman relaxation determination.
Highly Luminescent Silver-Based MOFs: Scalable Eco-Friendly Synthesis Paving the Way for Photonics Sensors and Electroluminescent Devices
Authors: Gutierrez Mario , Martín Cristina , Souza Barbara , Auweraer Mark Van der , Hofkens Johan , Tan Jin-Chong
Published: July 2020

Luminescent multifunctional nanomaterials are important because of their potential impact on the development of key technologies such as smart luminescent sensors and solid-state lightings. To be technologically viable, the luminescent material needs to fulfil a number of requirements for integration into real-world devices: facile and cost-effective fabrication, a high quantum yield, structural robustness, and long-term chemical stability. To achieve these requirements, an eco-friendly and scalable synthesis of a highly photoluminescent, multistimuli responsive and electroluminescent silver-based metal-organic framework (Ag-MOF), termed “OX-2” was developed. The high synthetic yield (at least 10 g of purely crystalline OX-2 via one pot reaction), together with its exceptional photophysical and mechanically resilient properties that can be reversibly switched by temperature and pressure make this material stood out over other competing luminescent materials. The potential use of OX-2 MOF as a good electroluminescent material was tested by constructing a proof-of-concept MOF-LED (Light Emitting Diode) device, further contributing to the rare examples of electroluminescent MOFs known to date. The results reveal the huge potential for exploiting the highly luminescent Ag MOF, where OX-2 may serve as a multitasking platform to engineer innovative photonic technologies.
Low serum Klotho level as a predictor of calcification of the heart and blood vessels in patients with CKD stages 2–5D
Authors: Milovanova Ludmila Yu. , Lysenko (Kozlovskaya) Lidia V. , Milovanova Svetlana Yu. , Taranova Marina V. , Kozlov Vasiliy V. , Reshetnikov Vladimir A. , Lebedeva Marina V. , Androsova Tatyana V. , Zubacheva Daria O. , Chebotareva Natalia V.
Published: July 2020

Cardiovascular calcification (CVC) makes a significant contribution to the manifestation of cardiovascular complications in patients with chronic kidney disease. Early CVC markers are currently being actively studied to optimize cardio-renoprotective strategies. We performed a prospective comparative analysis of the following factors: FGF-23, a-Klotho, sclecrostin, phosphate, parathyroid hormone, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), central systolic pressure as an independent determinant of CVC.
Materials and methods. The study included 131 patients with chronic kidney disease 25D st. Serum levels of FGF-23, Klotho, and sclerostin were evaluated using the ELISA method. Vascular augmentation (stiffness) indices, central arterial pressure (using the SphygmoCor device), calcification of heart valves and the degree of aortic calcification (aortic radiography) were also investigated. The observation period was 2 years.
Results. According to the Spearman correlation analysis, the percent of calcification increase and the change in Klotho level are most related. According to ROC analysis, a decrease in serum levels of Klotho by 50 units or more is a significant predictor of an increase in aortic calcification of 50% or more with a sensitivity of 86% and a specificity of 77%. Using logistic regression analysis, it was found that a serum Klotho level 632 pg/L predicts an eGFR below a median level of 48 ml/min/1.73 m2 with a sensitivity of 85.5% and a specificity of 78.5%. Wherein OR 17.477 (CI 95% 8.04637.962; p0.001).
Conclusion. The factor most associated with CVC is Klotho. Decreased serum level of Klotho is a predictor of aortic calcification. In addition, the initial serum level of Klotho is a predictor of eGFR after 2 years.
Reccurence of endometrioid ovarian cysts and possible ways to its reduce
Authors: Gusev Dmitrii V. , Prilutskaya Viktoriia Yu. , Chernukha Galina E.
Published: July 2020

Aim. Comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of various types of hormone therapy for the prevention of relapses of endometrioid cysts (EC), based on clinical observation and data analysis.
Materials and methods. Retrospective analysis of 122 patients (the average age 31.76.12 years) with laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis. Patients were divided into groups, according to the treatment options aGnRH (n=11), COCs (n=13), dienogest (Visanne) (n=56). A comparison group included 42 patients who did not receive hormone therapy. There were evaluated the number of reccurence in the group without therapy and in groups with different options for hormonal therapy.
Results. Among patients treated with hormone therapy, the recurrence rate of EC was 3.75%, among those who have not received therapy 38.1%. Of these, 31.1% of patients had recurrence rate of EC during the first year, 37.8% during 3 years, and 31.1% after 3 years. After suppressive therapy was discontinued, the relapse rate in the aGnRH group was 63.6%, COC 50%, dienogest 24%.
Conclusions. In addition to evaluating the ovarian reserve before and after surgical treatment, management tactics for patients with EC should include the long-term administration of dienogest as an anti-relapse therapy.
Algorithm for management of patients of the period of menopausal transition with recurrence of anomalous uterine bleeding associated with beneficial proliferative changes of endometry
Authors: Sinchikhin Sergei D. , Kostenko Ekaterina V. , Stepanyan Lusine V.
Published: July 2020

Aim. To compile an algorithm for managing patients during the menopausal transition with a relapse of abnormal uterine bleeding associated with benign proliferative changes in the endometrium and evaluate its outcomes.
Materials and methods. The observation of 150 patients aged 4555 years who had recurrence of abnormal uterine bleeding due to benign proliferative changes of the endometrium. All patients underwent hysteroresectoscopic ablation of the endometrium according to the monopolar coagulation-vaporization technique using Olympus equipment (Japan). The patients were divided into two groups. One group was formed by 98 women who, before hysteroscopic ablation of the endometrium, received hormonal preparations for 14 months, with the help of which suppressive changes in the uterine mucosa up to 34 mm were achieved. The other group consisted of 52 patients of the menopausal transition who did not receive preoperative drug therapy, and the thinning of the endometrium before hysterectomy was performed instrumentally. After hysteroresectoscopy, the period of clinical and instrumental observation was 2 years.
Results. Based on the results of the study, an algorithm has been compiled for the treatment of women during the menopausal transition with abnormal uterine bleeding, including at the first stage a clinical, laboratory and instrumental examination with the selection of a group of patients to be treated by endometrial ablation, and at the second stage, measures for the preoperative thinning of the uterine mucosa, at the third stage performing hysteroresectoscopic ablation of the endometrium; and at the fourth stage dynamic monitoring during ie 2 years. The preoperatively achieved medical atrophy of the endometrium, followed by hysteroresectoscopy, contributes to an improvement of 20.3% in the results of treatment of patients in comparison with mechanical thinning of the endometrium before hysteroresectoscopy. In general, the developed algorithm increases the effectiveness of anti-relapse treatment to 92.8%.
Conclusion. In practical health care, the proposed algorithm should be used, including successive steps. Following the algorithm, a differentiated approach to the choice of therapeutic tactics is carried out, taking into account not only morphological changes in the endometrium, but also the associated gynecological and somatic pathology of the patient, as well as justifying the conduct of preoperative preparation for hysteroresectoscopic ablation of the endometrium and determining the order of subsequent dynamic observation.
Hydrodeoxygenation and pyrolysis of free fatty acids obtained from waste rendering fat
Authors: Murat Martyna , Lederer Jaromír , Rodová Alena , Hidalgo Herrador José Miguel
Published: July 2020

Non-edible fats are a common renewable feedstock for the biofuels production to avoid partially the use of edible feeds and fossil fuels. The aim of this work was the use of waste rendering fat to produce pyrolyzed and hydrogenated oils. The feedstock was hydrolyzed producing free fatty acids and glycerol + residues. The free fatty acids were pyrolyzed (with and without metal sulfides metal supported catalyst) or hydrotreated separately. An autoclave closed hermetically in nitrogen (pyrolysis) or hydrogen (hydrotreatment) atmosphere was used. Gaseous products were analyzed by GC‑FID/TCD. Liquid products were analyzed by Simulated Distillation (ASTM D2887) and FT-IR (attenuated total reflectance technique). For the pyrolysis, the main gaseous products were carbon dioxide, methane, ethane, and propane. For the hydrotreatment, the total amount of gases produced was much lower being the main product the carbon dioxide. For liquids, the hydrotreatment of the free fatty acids produced the respective hydrocarbons by decarboxylation reaction and the pyrolysis produced a mixture of compounds with lighter boiling ranges compared to the original free fatty acids. The use of a metal sulfide metal supported catalyst in the pyrolysis led to a higher amount of hydrogen production. but similar boiling range liquid products compared to the non-catalytic test.
Determination of paracetamol in pharmaceutical samples by spectrophotometric method
Authors: Pasha Chand
Published: July 2020

It is described the use of 1,3 dinitrobenzene or 2,4 dinitrophenyl hydrazine is used as coupling agent for the spectrophotometric determination of paracetamol. This method is easy and simple based on the reaction of acid hydrolysis of paracetamol to produce p-aminophenol, which in turn reacts with nitrite in acidic standard to form diazonium ion, which is coupled with coupling agent in basic standard to produce azo dyes. The formed dyes follow Beer’s law in the range of 0.8-20.5 mg mL-1 of paracetamol with 1, 3 dinitrobenzene or 0.5-18.4 mg mL-1 of paracetamol with 2,4 dinitrophenyl hydrazine with absorption maxima at 429 nm or 430 nm. The molar absorptivity and Sandell’s sensitivity of paracetamol with 1,3 dinitrobenzene or paracetamol with 2,4 dinitrophenyl hydrazine azo dyes were 1.965×104 L mol-1 cm-1 or 2.776×104 L mol-1 cm-1, and 7.692×10-3 mg cm-2 or 5.698×10-3 mg cm-3 respectively. The dyes formed are stable for more than 12 h. The optimal reaction circumstances and other analytical parameters are evaluated. Interference due to foreign organic compounds have been studied. The method has been effectively applied to the determination of paracetamol in pharmaceutical samples.
Major and minor head losses in a hydraulic flow circuit: experimental measurements and a Moody’s diagram application
Authors: Amaral Madeira Aline
Published: July 2020

Domestic and industrial hydraulic drainage networks have gradually become more complicated because of the cities’ rapid expansion. In surcharged hydraulic systems, the head losses may become rather significant, and should not be neglected because could result in several problems. This work presents an investigation about major and minor head losses in a hydraulic flow circuit, simulating the water transport in a drainage network at room temperature (298.15 K) under atmospheric pressure (101,325 Pa). The losses produced by the fluid viscous effect through the one used cast-iron rectilinear pipe (RP-11) and the localized losses generated by two flow appurtenances, one fully open ball valve (BV-1) and one module of forty-four 90º elbows (90E-8) were experimentally measured. Experimental data generated head-loss curves and their well fitted to potential regressions, displaying correlation coefficients (R2) of 0.9792, 0.9924, and 0.9820 for BV-1, 90E-8, and RP-11, respectively. Head loss experimental equations and local loss coefficients through BV-1 and 90E-8 were determined successfully. The Moody’s diagram application proved to be a quite appropriate tool for an approximate estimation of Darcy-Weisbach friction factor. A good approximation between friction factor values obtained via experimental measurements and the Moody’s diagram was observed with mean absolute deviate of 0.0136.
DESIGN OF COMPOSITE SKIN PANEL FOR ROOF IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF EN 1995-1-1 AND GSN В.1.2-2:2006
Authors: Pichugin Sergiy , Shkirenko Sergiy , Pents Maryna
Published: July 2020

In the article design of composite (timber and plywood) skin panel has been considered according European and nationalstandards. The panel consists of timber webs and plywood skin. The design parameters are depth of webs and distance between webs within the defined skin parameters. In design the method of fictitious cross-section is applied. Check of the ultimate limit states is conducted in accordance with EN 1995-1-1 (ДБН В.2.6-161:2017). Loads to the panel are determined according to ДБН В.1.2.-2:2006. The usage of European and national standards complies with the actual requirements andwiden methodological base.
STOCHASTIC CALCULATION OF A QUASI-HOMOGENEOUS BOLTED JOINTS OF THE BODY SHEETS OF THE STEEL SILOS
Authors: Pichugin Sergii , Makhinko Anton , Makhinko Nataliia
Published: July 2020

This paper deals with the study of reliability of quasi-homogeneous bolted joints of the body of thin-walled constructions ofthe steel silos. Heterogeneity of this unit can be caused by number of reasons, in particular by presence of bolts of differentstrength in joint. In such case the reliability of the system is determined trough the probability of trouble-free work of the coefficient of the critical factor. The general conception of stochastic calculation consists in using the Monte-Karlo simulationprocedure for the samples of random values of the large volume. It was formed the system of conditions, under which the reliability of joints is provided and analytical expressions for the value of coefficient of the critical factor is got, and also madepractical calculation example with the following graphic presentation on a special coordinate plane – a critical stochasticscale. It was illustrated that random presence of bolts of less strength in field joint rapidly increases the risk of refusal.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DESIGN SOLUTIONS OF METAL SILOS
Authors: Pichugin Sergii , Oksenenko Kateryna
Published: July 2020

Concept of bulk material and complexity of storing it are explained. The dependence between the physical and mechanicalproperties of the loose material and type of construction in which it is stored. Structural elements considered silos and siloswith conical and flat bottom are described. The common characteristics of metal silos for bulk materials are given. The classification of metal silos by type of housing design is given. The advantages and disadvantages of silos are described.The possibility of storage of bulk materials in cylindrical shells is analyzed depending on the type of construction. The history of occurrence of structures of spiral-fold silos is considered. The set of equipment for the construction of the housing ofthe spiral-fold silos is given, the step-by-step process of formation of the folding lock and features of the installation processare presented. The analysis of the structure is made and the advantages and disadvantages of spiral-fold silos are determined.
PLASTIC BEARING CAPACITY OF THE STEEL ELEMENT CROSS-SECTION BY INTERNAL FORCES COMBINATION AND RESTRAINT
Authors: Hudz Serhii , Gasii Grygorii , Нasenko Anton , Dariienko Viktor
Published: July 2020

The article examines the features of determining the bearing capacity of the steel profile cross-section, rolled or composedfrom three sheets with arbitrary thickness, considering the development of plastic deformations in a complex combination ofdifferent power factors that may occur during spatial loss of stability. Based on a new approach to the perception character ofinternal forces, the goal is to investigate their ability to redistribute between separate linear elements, on which cross-sectionof the beam is broken. It is proposed to increase the savings of the material by detailing the calculation.
METHOD OF FORECASTING THE TERMS OF SETTLING OF STRUCTURES ON SOILS WITH SILT LAYERS
Authors: Oksen Yevhen
Published: July 2020

The method of forecasting the size and timing of sedimentation of structures on soils with silt layers, based on the results offield observations, has been developed. It is suggested to use a set of exponential dependencies with a constant component.The algorithm and software for calculation of the envelope by experimental data by a stepwise approximation are developed.The process of consolidation of soils is considered as a combination of simultaneous and independent flow of phases of primary filtration consolidation and secondary consolidation of creep. According to the results of data processing of observations by direct iterative calculations by finding the minimum nonconnectedness by the method of least squares.
IMPROVING WATERPROOFING PROPERTIES IN THE WALL BASEMENT AREA BY INJECTION METHOD
Authors: Filonenko Olena , Leshchenko Maryna , Rozdabara Olesia , Duka Oleksandr , Pashchenko Vlad , Filonenko Dmitro
Published: July 2020

The article is focused on the natural experimental research of injection waterproofing impact on basement areas of existingbuildings brick walls. Two types of experimental installations for waterproofing material injection have been developed. Thesecond type turned out to be more efficient due to the fact that it could cover larger waterproofing wall area. It can possiblyspeed up the process of walls waterproofing and major repairs of buildings in general. According to the experimental data, after the injection waterproofing placement, the wall moisture content decreased by half due to the high quality waterproofingmaterial and performed installation work.