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Introduction. The World Health Organization considers the values of antibody titers in the hemagglutination inhibition assay as one of the most important criteria for assessing successful vaccination. Mathematical modeling of cross-immunity allows for identification on a real-time basis of new antigenic variants, which is of paramount importance for human health. Materials and methods. This study uses statistical methods and machine learning techniques from simple to complex: logistic regression model, random forest method, and gradient boosting. The calculations used the AAindex matrices in parallel to the Hamming distance. The calculations were carried out with different types and values of antigenic escape thresholds, on four data sets. The results were compared using common binary classification metrics. Results. Significant differentiation is shown depending on the data sets used. The best results were demonstrated by all three models for the forecast autumn season of 2022, which were preliminary trained on the February season of the same year (Auroc 0.934; 0.958; 0.956, respectively). The lowest results were obtained for the entire forecast year 2023, they were set up on data from two seasons of 2022 (Aucroc 0.614; 0.658; 0.775). The dependence of the results on the types of thresholds used and their values turned out to be insignificant. The additional use of AAindex matrices did not significantly improve the results of the models without introducing significant deterioration. Conclusion. More complex models show better results. When developing cross-immunity models, testing on a variety of data sets is important to make strong claims about their prognostic robustness.

Metronomic chemotherapy (MCT) is a promising direction of anticancer therapy, as well as in pediatric oncology, and its administration in patients with refractory and recurrent tumors of the central nervous system becomes increasingly relevant. Being a regimen of low doses of antitumor agents with different mechanisms of action in a continuous mode for a long time, it allows to overcome the resistance of tumor cells and to minimize the toxic effects of treatment. Today, the issues of rational choice of MCT regimens, which are dependent on the type of tumor, and the application of biomarkers of its effectiveness, remain controversial. The article discusses in detail the biological effects of MCT with an accent on antiangiogenic one, as well as the possibilities and limitations of MCT application in pediatric practice and the results of studies in tumors of the central nervous system.

IntroductionThe mechanisms of the SARS-CoV-2-triggered complex alterations in immune cell activation and production of cytokines in lung tissue remain poorly understood, in part because of the limited use of adequate tissue models that simulate the structure and cell composition of the lung in vivo. We developed a novel ex vivo model of SARS-CoV-2 infection of lung explants, that maintains the intact tissue composition and the viral load for up to 7–10 days. Using this model, we studied cytokine production during SARS-CoV-2 infection.Materials and methodsLung tissue was monitored for viability and cell composition using flow cytometry and histological analysis. SARS-CoV-2 infection was verified immunohistochemically, viral loads in tissue and culture medium were monitored by qPCR. A panel of 41 cytokines was measured in culture medium using xMAP technology.ResultsThe explant lung tissue was viable and maintained viral infection that influenced the cytokine production. Elevated concentrations of G-CSF, GM-CSF, GRO-a, IFN-g, IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, MCP-3, MIP-1a, PDGF-AA, and VEGF, and decreased IL-1RA concentration were observed in infected tissue compared to non-infected tissue.DiscussionOur results generally reflect the data obtained in COVID-19 patients. GRO-a, IFN-g, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, MCP-3, and RANTES correlated with the viral load, forming a distinct pro-inflammatory cluster. Thus, our lung ex vivo model faithfully reproduces some aspects of cytokine alterations in COVID-19 patients at an early disease stage, making the investigation of SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanisms more accessible and providing a potential platform for antiviral drug testing.

Subject. Digitalisation is a global trend in the evolution and transformation of public administration systems. The developed methodological approaches, which allow assessing the effectiveness of this process and determining its impact on the socio-economic dynamics of states, strive to catch up with the rapid development of modern information and communication technologies. What is more, the government often acts as a driving force for the introduction of these technologies. The existing international, national, and regional methods of assessment are based on criteria and indicators which depend on the analytical purposes. Such criteria are developed within different databases and focus on different aspects of the digitalisation of public administration. It is important to analyse and monitor the outcomes and conditions of digital processes in public administration as well as the demand for them. Such analysis and motoring contribute to information management required for the implementation of other state functions. Objectives. The research is aimed at achieving the following research objectives: to analyse the state of the existing system of assessment of digitalisation in the area of public administration with due account of current assessment trends, to determine the advantages and disadvantages of the existing methods, to develop an original approach to their classification, and to search for optimisation opportunities. Methodology. The dialectical method and the methods of analysis and synthesis were used to achieve these objectives. The study is based on the contemporary achievements in the methods for assessing the digitalisation of public administration described in relevant research papers and regulations. Conclusions. The peculiarities of existing methods for assessing the digitalisation of public administration are due to both the peculiarities of the analysed object and the needs of the users of the analytical information. In this regard, we propose an original classification of assessment approaches, which consists of the following groups of methods: methods that assess the digitalisation conditions (group 1), the results of digitalisation in terms of available public services (group 2) and in terms of satisfaction of the main stakeholders: the public, businesses, state bodies, government agencies, and their employees (group 3). As a way of optimisation, it was considered whether it would be relevant to include indicators of the use of artificial intelligence technologies in public administration.

Abstract This study utilizes advanced artificial intelligence techniques to analyze the social media behavior of 1358 users on VK, the largest Russian online social networking service. The analysis comprises 753,252 posts and reposts, combined with Big Five personality traits test results, as well as assessments of verbal and fluid intelligence. The objective of this research is to understand the manifestation of psychological attributes in social media users' behavior and determine their implications on user-interaction models. We employ the integrated gradients method to identify the most influential feature groups. The partial dependence plot technique aids in understanding how these features function across varying severity degrees of the predicted trait. To evaluate feature stability within the models, we cluster calculated Shapley values. Our findings suggest that the emotional tone (joy, surprise, anger, fear) of posts significantly influences the prediction of three personality traits: Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Openness to Experience. Additionally, user social engagement metrics (such as friend count, subscribers, likes, views, and comments) correlate directly with the predicted level of Logical thinking. We also observe a trend towards provocative and socially reprehensible content among users with high Neuroticism levels. The theme of religion demonstrates a multidirectional relationship with Consciousness and Agreeableness. Further findings, including an analysis of post frequency and key text characteristics, are also discussed, contributing to our understanding of the complex interplay between social media behavior and psychological traits. The study proposes a transition from the analysis of correlations between psychological (cognitive) traits to the analysis of indicators of behavior in a social network that are significant for diagnostic models of the corresponding traits.

The remains of birds from the CLXXIX excavation site in the central part of the Bolgar fortified settlement of the pre-Mongol, early and late Golden Horde periods were studied. The total number of identified species is 32. At least 70% are identified as remains of poultry. In the sediments of the Golden Horde period, the number of bones of laying hens increases, and the remains of chickens of different size types appear. In the layer of the late Golden Horde period, the number of mallard bones increases more than three times. Among the wild species in all layers, remains of grouse, ducks, hawks and corvids predominate. The rich complex of bones of diurnal birds of prey, its taxonomic, sex and age composition, as well as the features of the archaeological context of the finds suggest that birds of prey were kept and trained on the territory of the homesteads of the central part of the Bolgar trade and craft district of the Golden Horde period. The discovery of a young female golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) partial skeleton and its archaeological context suggest the possibility that the Mongolian tradition of hunting with eagles penetrated into the Volga region. The beginning of hunting with large birds of prey coincides with the inclusion of Bolgar into the Ulus of Jochi, when bearers of this tradition were present on the territory of the city.

Relevance. One of the priority areas for modern energy development is the active use of renewable energy technologies, the leading position among which in terms of the volume of commissioned generating capacity and areas of practical application is occupied by photovoltaics. In recent years, solar photovoltaic plants are increasingly being used as part of autonomous power supply systems, which is largely facilitated by a significant reduction in the cost of their components due to improved technology. Autonomous power supply systems can vary significantly in power, operating conditions, requirements for uninterrupted power supply and many other factors. This determines the high importance of the task of choosing the composition of the main electrical equipment that ensures optimal technical and economic indicators of the designed energy system. To make a reasonable choice of the equipment of an autonomous photovoltaic power plant, simulation models of all its main components are required that adequately reflect their performance characteristics under real operating conditions. An important component of autonomous photovoltaic plants is the energy storage device, which includes a battery and a solar controller that manages the energy balance of the power plant. The settings of the solar controller largely determine the operating modes of the photovoltaic power plant, on which the service life of the batteries primarily depends. Taking into account the fact that the costs of energy storage constitute a significant share of the costs of the total financial investments in the designed power plant, the problem of reliably assessing the service life of batteries is very relevant. Aim. Development of a mathematical model of energy storage system for the design and optimization of the equipment of autonomous photovoltaic plants. Methods. Mathematical and numerical modeling using the MatLab/Simulink software package. Results. A mathematical model of a battery has been developed, based on the modified Shepherd model and the kinetic model of a rechargeable battery. The model is universal and can be used to simulate the static and dynamic characteristics of different types of batteries. To identify model parameters, only the technical specification data provided by the manufacturer is sufficient. The complex model includes a battery life model, which allows you to dynamically adjust the available maximum battery capacity during operation.

During archaeological studies, a representative collection of Finno-Ugric artefacts (20 pcs.) was collected in the central part of the Bolgar fortified settlement. Most of them are various decorations and clothing items. They were made of copper alloy. Among the finds of the pre-Mongol period there are jingling pendants of various types, their details, clasps (syulgams) and copper tube beads. Some of the items have analogies among the objects from the Lomovatovo culture sites. Other items are similar to objects from the burial complexes of the muroma and merya people. There are similar artefacts in individual burials on the territory of Volga Bolgaria. Objects of the Golden Horde period were represented by 2 types of copper clasps (syulgams): with triangular blades and spiral-ended. Clasps of these types are typical Mordovian ornaments. The finds of the XVIII–XIX centuries include a comb-pendant made of copper alloy.

The study of the social topography of medieval Bolgar has been one of the important directions since the beginning of systematic archaeological works in 1938. During the work of the archaeological expedition led by A.P. Smirnov, there was accumulation of the material and data on the social topography of Bolgar. The locations of various handicraft complexes were recorded, the concentration of ceramics of various ethnic-cultural groups was noted. To characterize the Bolgar sites A.P. Smirnov and his followers used terminology more typical for Russian medieval urban settlements («posad», «sloboda»). Attempts to single out city blocks because of craft specialization did not bring noticeable results. Nowadays, with the use of a wide range of objects of material culture, objects of monumental architecture and the features of residential buildings, as well as application of the data on the location of craft complexes, the size of estates, it is possible to allocate at least four large craft districts for the Golden Horde Bolgar: trade and craft district, the area beyond the Melenka river with metallurgical and pottery industries, the area of metallurgical production at the Black Chamber, and the pottery district by the Gollandskoye lake. The districts existed simultaneously just in the first half of the XIV century. The urban periphery in the western and southern parts was occupied by large estates. They could belong to the local feudal elite. The historical core of the city, on the site of the pre-Mongol citadel, can be associated with the administrative center of Bolgar of the Golden Horde period. Administrative functions could also be performed by residents in the area around the Мaly minaret (Small Minaret).

Relevance. Ebola virus disease (EVD) is an acute infectious disease with an extremely high case fatality rate reaching up to 90%. EVD has become widely known since 20142016, when outbreak in West Africa occurred and led to epidemic, which caused travel-related cases on the territory of other continents. There are two vaccines against EVD, prequalified by WHO for emergency use, as well as a number of vaccines, approved by local regulators in certain countries. However, even with the availability of effective vaccines, the lack of data on immune correlates of protection and duration of protective immune response in humans and primates is limiting factor for effectively preventing the spread of EVD outbreaks. Aims. This review highlights experience of use of EVD vaccines during outbreaks in endemic areas, summarizes data on vaccine immunogenicity in clinical trials, and discusses perspectives for further development and use of effective EVD vaccines.

The article delves into the impact of the refugee movement during the First World War produced on the self-identity of Latvians living in the Yenisei Province. This research aims to explore the formation and operation of social institutions that encapsulated Latvian self-awareness. These institutions include the Bureau of the Authorized Representative of the Latvian Central Committee for Refugee Assistance in the Yenisei Province, and the Krasnoyarsk Latvian Charitable Society. During this era, the growing national consciousness among the Yenisei Province’s Latvians was evident through an uptick in cultural events, frequently conducted in the Latvian language and organized by Latvians for their community. The author posits that the surge in Latvian self-awareness stemmed from the refugee movements of the First World War. The imperative to support Latvian refugees – offering housing, job opportunities, clothing, financial aid, and more – precipitated the designation of the Authorized Representative and the subsequent establishment of the Bureau under its directory in 1915. This concerted effort to assist the refugees catalyzed the unification of the Latvian intelligentsia, culminating in the foundation of the Latvian national organization, the charitable society, in 1916. The author underscores that the rise of Latvian civic organizations aligns with the broader Siberian trend of creating secular ethnocultural groups alongside the traditional confessional ones. This article caters to both specialists in the ethno-confessional history of pre-revolutionary Siberia and a more general readership.

Background. Constant assessment of the dynamics of the main characteristics of the epidemic process is the basic function of epidemiological surveillance of infectious diseases. The search for factors that determine changes in the characteristics of the epidemic process makes it possible to develop timely management decisions and reduce the risk of an increase in the scale of the pandemic. Moscow is the main centre of attraction for the population of other Russian regions with the most complex structure of social links and the highest population density. The purpose of the study is to identify factors that potentially determine the trends of observed changes using a molecular epidemiological analysis of the main characteristics of the epidemic process of a new coronavirus infection (COVID-19). Materials and methods. For the analysis, the data of Russian national genome sequence database of SARS-CoV-2 virus (VGARus) were combined with information on morbidity and mortality presented at the official internet resources стопкоронавирус.рф and Yandex DataLens, the dynamics of vaccination, COVID-19 disease incidence and hospitalization from the portal Gogov.ru. A multicentre retrospective observational epidemiological study was conducted to examine the sex and age structure of hospitalised patients. Anonymized case histories of patients with COVID-19 collected at different follow-up periods in the institutions of Moscow (41,561 cases) served as a source of data for the sex and age structure analysis. Results. We identified 11 periods with significantly different complex epidemiological characteristics. A decrease in the incidence among young people of working age during the period of restrictive measures was revealed. In 3 out of 11 worsening of the epidemic situation coincided with the beginning of the circulation of a new genetic variant of the pathogen COVID-19 (variants Wuhan, Delta, Omicron). A decrease in the incidence in the summer period was noted, regardless of the circulating genetic variants. Conclusion. A significant part of the observed dynamics of the characteristics of the epidemic process in Moscow can be explained by the properties of the pathogen, seasonality and dynamics of magnitude of the herd immunity. The influence of the dynamics of the herd immunity indicators on the course of the epidemic process is to be studied further.

Introduction Pseudarthrosis and bone defects are the most common consequence of neurofibromatosis type I in children, a rare hereditary disease. Destruction of bone tissue leads to severe deformities and impaired function of the limbs. Disability in such patients may reach 70 %. Surgical treatment of children with this pathology is long, laborious and multi-stage. Traditional orthopaedic methods for managing bone defects are often ineffective. The development of microsurgical methods enables to perform bone transfer of blood-supplied bone autografts. Purpose To prove the effectiveness of using microsurgical autologous transfer of the vascularized fibula for plastic surgery of bone defects in children with neurofibromatosis type I. Materials and methods A retrospective monocenter study included 27 pediatric patients who underwent reconstruction of bone defects with a vascularized fibular autograft from 2011 to 2021. The etiology of the bone defect in all patients was neurofibromatosis type I. A fibula graft was used to reconstruct 8 tibiae and 19 forearms. Bone defects averaged 12 cm. Median follow-up was 60 months. Results The fibula graft survival rate was 100 %. In 5 cases, nonunion of the proximal part of the fibula and the recipient zone was obtained which required iliac crest grafting. The overall rate of good and excellent results was 74 %. The average time to consolidation was 3 months. Discussion According to the literature, the use of autografting of vascularized bone fragments is a ather limited procedure in children with neurofibromatosis type I as it is associated with an increased risk of complications. Due to the restoration of blood flow in the transferred vascularized autograft, it retains its viability and the possibility of bone tissue remodeling. Conclusion Microsurgical autologous transfer of a vascularised fragment of the fibula is an effective and at times indispensable method of bone plasty in long bone defects in children with type 1 neurofibromatosis. Bone defects larger than 5 cm are an indication for free autologous transfer of a vascularized fragment of the fibula. This method, used in combination with traditional orthopedic methods for the treatment of children, allows obtaining good anatomical and functional results.

Introduction. The WHO regularly updates influenza vaccine recommendations to maximize their match with circulating strains. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of the influenza A vaccine, specifically its H3N2 component, has been low for several seasons. The aim of the study is to develop a mathematical model of cross-immunity based on the array of published WHO hemagglutination inhibition assay (HAI) data. Materials and methods. In this study, a mathematical model was proposed, based on finding, using regression analysis, the dependence of HAI titers on substitutions in antigenic sites of sequences. The computer program we developed can process data (GISAID, NCBI, etc.) and create real-time databases according to the set tasks. Results. Based on our research, an additional antigenic site F was identified. The difference in 1.6 times the adjusted R2, on subsets of viruses grown in cell culture and grown in chicken embryos, demonstrates the validity of our decision to divide the original data array by passage histories. We have introduced the concept of a degree of homology between two arbitrary strains, which takes the value of a function depending on the Hamming distance, and it has been shown that the regression results significantly depend on the choice of function. The provided analysis showed that the most significant antigenic sites are A, B, and E. The obtained results on predicted HAI titers showed a good enough result, comparable to similar work by our colleagues. Conclusion. The proposed method could serve as a useful tool for future forecasts, with further study to confirm its sustainability.

The authors consider results of generalization and analysis of materials related to the treatment of raw materials and manufacturing of leatherware, originating from the territory of the Bolgar fortified settlement. Spatial analysis of the industrial waste allocation (leather scraps) and specialized tools (awls, cutting knives), which were identified at the site of the trade and craft district of Bolgar during archaeological studies, allows the authors to identify at least two zones with a number of estates where leather and sewing workshops were located. The first of them was studied in the excavations 18 and CXCII, the second one – in the excavation CLXXIX. These complexes can be dated within the framework of the early Golden Horde period – the second half of the XIII – beginning of the XIV century. In other cases, either solitary leather scraps, or single findings of tools of masters working with leather were revealed in the excavations.

Ultrafine-grained Al2O3–rare earth:yttrium aluminium garnet (Al2O3–RE:YAG) (RE = Ce; Ce+Gd) composite ceramics were obtained for the first time by reactive spark plasma sintering (SPS) using commercially available initial oxide powders. The effect of key sintering parameters (temperature, dwell time, and external pressure (Pload)) on densification peculiarities, structural-phase states, and luminescent properties of composites was studied comprehensively. Differences in phase formation and densification between Ce-doped and Ce,Gd-codoped systems were shown. Parameters of reactive SPS, at which there is partial melting with the formation of near-eutectic zones of the Al2O3–YAG system/coexistence of several variations of the YAG-type phase, were established. Pure corundum–garnet biphasic ceramics with an optimal balance between microstructural and luminescence performance were synthesized at 1425 ℃/30 min/30–60 MPa. The external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the phosphor converters reached 80.7% and 72% with close lifetime of ~63.8 ns, similar to those of commercial Ce:YAG materials, which is promising for further applications in the field of high-power white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) and laser diodes (LDs).

Relevance. The construction sector is currently one of the largest consumers of raw materials and a major source of environmental pollution, accounting for about 40 % of energy consumption and about 30 % of greenhouse gas emissions. As a result of emissions into the atmosphere of combustion products of coal, oil and gas, irreparable damage is caused to the environment. One of the promising ways to solve this problem is the introduction of «energy efficient building» technology. The key task of designing energy-efficient buildings is the development of a power supply system, which largely determines the level of comfort and technical and economic indicators of the entire facility. The complexity of this task is caused by the fact that installations based on renewable energy sources, characterized by stochastic generation, are mainly used as power sources, and energy-efficient buildings themselves can differ significantly from each other in a number of parameters: purpose, architecture, size and number of storeys, composition of consumers etc. The article proposes an engineering technique for designing such objects and the results of its testing. The aim of study is to develop an engineering methodology for designing power supply systems for autonomous energy-efficient buildings based on renewable energy sources. Methods: methods of statistical processing of time series of data, mathematical and computer modeling using the MatLab/Simulink software environment. Results. The authors have proposed an engineering methodology for designing power supply systems for autonomous objects, focused on the design of «active» buildings with the maximum possible use of renewable energy sources. The paper describes the main design stages, which include calculation and analysis of the energy balance, choice of the main electrical equipment and development of a structural diagram of the electric power system, optimization of the composition and sizes of the main electrical equipment, selection of switching and protective devices, conductor products, development of circuit diagrams. The paper considers the practical example of application of the proposed methodology for designing the power supply system of an autonomous energy-efficient building in the Kursk region.

Background. The ongoing pandemic of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) draws attention to the significance of molecular and genetic monitoring of the SARS-CoV-2 spread among the population of the Russian Federation. The aim of the study was to analyze the dynamics of circulation of SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants in Russia. Materials and methods. The analysis of the circulation dynamics for SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants in Russia was carried out, covering the period from 28/12/2020 to 26/6/2022. The analysis included the data from Rospotrebnadzor Report No. 970 "Information about Infectious Diseases in Individuals with Suspected Novel Coronavirus Infection" and the Virus Genome Aggregator of Russia (VGARus). The presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was confirmed by the real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The primer panels developed at the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology were used for amplification of genomic fragments and the subsequent sequencing. Results and discussion. Using the Russian VGARus platform developed by the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, we received the data on mutational variability of SARS-CoV-2. By monitoring the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants in Russia from 28/12/2020 to 26/6/2022, we found that Delta and Omicron genetic variants prevailed at different stages of the epidemic. Conclusion. The data of molecular and genetic studies are an essential component of epidemiological surveillance, being critically important for making executive decisions aimed at prevention of further spread of SARS-CoV-2 and laying the groundwork for creating new vaccines.

Many years of archaeological studies at Bolgar settlement have allowed to identify and determine the areas of a Golden Horde city which specialized in the production of pottery products. The existence of two main sites was established, where the potters' districts were located: in the area on the other side of the river and on the southwestern periphery of Lake Galankina. The districts were allocated based on the arrangement of large industrial complexes – pottery furnaces. In the first case, one can only talk about the nature of the organization of production and the composition of the products. In the second case, an analysis of the spatial location of residential buildings, industrial zone, necropolises, nearby monumental structures, fortification lines, as well as relief features allow to determine the boundaries of the pottery district of Bolgar in the Golden Horde period, and outline the principles of the organization of the internal layout of the area. The total area of the pottery district near Lake Galankina was at least 43.5 hectares. The period of existence of the specified area was short and occurred in the 1330s – early 1360s.

Background: Toxic desomorphine encephalopathy (TDE) is a pathological condition that develops as a result of the intravenous use of a drug called Krokodil containing desomorphine, made in the artisanal conditions using codeine-containing drugs, organic solvents (gasoline), iodine and red phosphorus. This disease is more often observed in the CIS countries. In addition to the acute and chronic pathological conditions with the damage to various organs, the use of Krokodil is characterized by pronounced extrapyramidal manifestations in the form of dystonia, parkinsonism, postural disorders, as well as the occurrence of cognitive and affective disorders. Aims: To find the clinical and neuroimaging features of toxic desomorphine encephalopathy, as well as possible methods of its treatment. Methods: A clinical analysis of the medical documentation of 21 TDE patients (11 women and 10 men) with a history of the use of Krokodil was carried out, the patients had been under observation from 2014 to 2021. All the patients underwent a clinical physical and neurological examination, 14 of them underwent neuroimaging (brain MRI and/or MSCT). The observation of these patients revealed a number of characteristic clinical and neuroimaging features inherent in the majority of drug addicts. Results: The clinical picture of patients with TDE was dominated by movement disorders. All the patients had pronounced postural disorders and gait disturbance. Parkinsonism was observed in 20 of 21 patients. The hyperkinetic syndrome was presented in 17 patients (80.9%) and was manifested by dystonia of various localization with polymorphic manifestations. The brain MRI data taken from the Krokodil users for 3 years were characterized by symmetrical focal changes in the basal ganglia, brainstem, cerebellum and internal capsule of the thalamus in the form of an increase in the intensity of the MR signal in the T1 mode and attenuation in the T2-weighted images mode (7 of 11 cases), with the subsequent regression of these characteristics based on the results of the subsequent MRI studies. Conclusion: The study results have revealed the clinical manifestations characteristic of TDE polymorphic extrapyramidal disorders, as well as neuroimaging changes reflecting these data.

The synthesis of the title compounds was performed from (-)-cis-myrtanic and (-)-myrtenic acids. The compounds obtained were characterized using 1H- and 13C-NMR, IR, and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Despite the presence of quaternary ammonium moiety, both compounds had moderate antimicrobial activity with a MIC of 128 µg/mL on S. aureus and 512 µg/mL on E. coli. The antifungal activity was low on Candida isolates, while also comparable with conventional antimycotic (Fluconazole) on filamentous fungi. These data suggest that two bulky bicyclic terpene fragments apparently both increase lipophilicity and close the quaternary ammonium moiety located in the center of molecules and thus drastically decrease the antimicrobial potential of bipharmacophore.

Archaeological studies of 2011–2020 in the central part of Bolgar fortifi ed settlement have allowed to identify the boundaries of urban estates of the second half of the 13th – early 15th centuries. The paper summarizes and presents an analysis of the spatial and stratigraphic distribution of the items characteristic of handicraft industries: raw materials, blanks, scrap, tools and production complexes (kilns). For the fi rst time, statistical data on such categories of objects as glass signet rings and stone molds are presented for this portion of the fortified settlement. It was the excavations of 2011–2020 where the maximum concentration of these categories of items was recorded (glass signet rings – 1674 pcs., mold casings – 67 pcs.). As a result, it was possible to localize handicraft production (copper foundry, jewelry, bone cutting, glass processing and amber processing) within the boundaries of specific estates. It was established that in most cases, craft workshops occupied the inner parts of estate territories.

Aim. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of long-term continuous use of Avegra BIOCAD (international nonproprietary name INN: bevacizumab) as a targeted therapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer in real-world practice. Materials and methods. The paper presents the interim results of a multicenter prospective observational post-approval study of the safety and efficacy of Avegra BIOCAD (INN: bevacizumab) combined with chemotherapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Inclusion criteria: histology verified diagnosis of metastatic colorectal cancer; therapy with bevacizumab (by JSC BIOCAD, Russia) to all patients included in the study, as part of real-world clinical practice, at a dose of 5 mg/kg every 2 weeks or 7.5 mg/kg every 3 weeks in combination with standard cytotoxic regimens (FOLFOX 6, XELOX, etc.). The main safety criteria are the incidence of adverse reactions to bevacizumab and the rate of treatment withdrawal due to the development of adverse reactions to bevacizumab. Additional criteria are objective response rate (complete and partial response to therapy), disease control rate (ORR and stable disease), and rate of disease progression. Results. At the time of the interim analysis, 441 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer in 28 research centers of the Russian Federation (Moscow, Saint Petersburg and regional clinics) were included in the study. Median age of patients is 62 (2887) years. Patients had an ECOG performance status of 01, with a median follow-up of 7.3 months. After the therapy, the disease control rate was 79.5%. The median PFS was 8 months (95% CI 7.04 to 9.00). The median OS was not reached. Toxicity associated with bevacizumab manifested predominantly as arterial hypertension (3%), diarrhea (1,1%) and asthenia (0.9%). Nine (2.1%) SARs were observed; three (0.6%) of them (COVID-19, intestinal obstruction, multiple organ failure) resulted in mortality. The obtained results are well consistent with the previously known bevacizumab safety profile characteristics. Conclusion. The interim analysis results confirm the favorable safety profile and high efficacy of Avegra BIOCAD (INN: bevacizumab) combined with standard cytotoxic regimens (FOLFOX, XELOX, etc.) as first-line therapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. The real-world data for ORR and PFS are comparable with clinical trials results. At the time of the interim analysis publication, the study is ongoing. Final conclusions on the safety and efficacy of bevacizumab (by JSC BIOCAD, Russia), will be made after the study is completed.

The relevance of the work is caused by the need to study seasonal variations in the volume and composition of sedimentation flows in modern lakes and their relationship with weather and climatic factors, which can serve as a basis for reconstructing climatic changes in the past. The main aim: to assess seasonal changes in the mass, velocity and chemical composition of sedimentary material entering Lake Shira on the basis of generalization and analysis of the results of multiyear annual monitoring of the material of sedimentation traps incubated in the lake. Object of the study was the drainless, slightly saline meromictic lake Shira, located in the steppe intermontane depression on the territory of the Republic of Khakassia. Methods: long-term seasonal monitoring of sedimentary material forming bottom sediments using sedimentation traps incubated in the lake; study of the obtained material for a wide range of parameters (biological, hydrochemical, lithological-geochemical, granulometric, etc.) by various conventional methods, including the method of X-ray fluorescence microanalysis on synchrotron radiation beams (XRF-SI), adapted for the study of bottom samples; computer statistical analysis of the data obtained (multiple regression method, cross-correlation analysis, etc.) in order to identify the relationship between regional temperatures and the chemical composition of the deposited material with the construction of a regression model. Results. Based on the study of the amount and elemental composition of the sedimentary material of the seasonal bottom traps of Lake Shira, collected for 2012–2017, a dynamic model of the seasonal influx of sedimentary flows in lakes of this landscape-geochemical type was formulated. It has been established that the most intensive sedimentation of the material occurs in the summer-autumn period, less – in the winter-spring period. At the same time, in spring, the accumulation of allochthonous (terrigenous) aleurite material, supplied with flood waters, predominates; in the summer-autumn period, simultaneously with the deposition of clastogenic pelitic material, biogenic and chemogenic materials are accumulated in sediments in large quantities. In winter, clastogenic and biogenic processes of sedimentation practically stop, only chemogenic sedimentation of carbonates is observed. It was established that the sedimentation of allochthonous material entering the reservoir occurs during two–three months, which indicates a certain inertness of sedimentation. The presence of a stable relationship between the mass and chemical composition of terrigenous material entering the lake with the regional temperature of the near-surface air, which is one of the main regulators of the water balance of the reservoir, is shown.

Background. The fi nite element method is gaining acknowledgment in Russia and other developed countries in a range of areas, including medicine. In stomatology, the method is applicable in research and implication of novel treatment and relevant material design.Objective. The review highlights usage of the fi nite element method in computer simulation to improve quality of patient dental care.Methods. The review analyses the state-of-the-art in current scientific literature. Records were mined in the PubMed and e-Library databases at a depth of 10 years, with selective inclusion of earlier articles. The query keywords were: finite element method [метод конечных элементов], computer simulation [компьютерная симуляция], quality of life improvement [повышение качества жизни], oral diseases [заболевания полости рта], dental treatment [стоматологическое лечение].Results. The review systematically surveys 56 scientific papers in the focus area for current state-of-the-art in the finite element analysis-empowered simulation in dentistry. The method’s rising employment is conditioned by its flexibility, 3D-object modelling simplicity and the rapid acquisition of reliable high-quality output. Its undoubted paramount advantage in dentistry is an explicit software visualisation of reliable results through co-modelling of multiple oral parameters.Conclusion. The growing acquaintance, mastering and use of this technique among researchers around the globe will give impetus to novel diagnosis and treatment, as well as relevant management algorithms in particular patient categories to enable personalisation of even mass dental check-up. This will reduce the number of visits, peri- and posttreatment error and complication rates for the improved patient’s quality of life and social rehabilitation.

The article highlights the course of long-term SARS-CoV-2 infection in a patient with a secondary immunodeficiency developed with B-cell-depleting therapy of the underlying disease. Analysis of the intrapatient virus evolution revealed an inpatient S:G75A mutation that alters the 72GTNGTKR78 motif of the S-protein, with a possible role in binding to alternative cellular receptors. Therapy with a ready-made COVID-19-globulin preparation (native human immunoglobulin G (IgG) derived from the plasma of convalescent COVID-19-patients) resulted in rapid improvement of the patient’s condition, fast, and stable elimination of the virus, and passive immunization of the patient for at least 30 days. The results suggest the use of products containing neutralizing antibodies opens new prospects for treatment algorithms for patients with persistent coronavirus infection, as well as for passive immunization schemes for patients with a presumably reduced specific response to vaccination.

Chen and colleagues develop a workflow for assembling high quality metagenome-associated genomes for microbial species using long and short reads, in this case from a meromictic lake. A full, detailed workflow is provided in for use by the community.

We previously demonstrated that gene-modified umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells overexpressing a combination of recombinant neurotrophic factors are a promising therapeutic approach for cell-mediated gene therapy for neurodegenerative diseases, neurotrauma, and stroke. In this study, using a mini pig model of spinal cord injury, we proposed for the first time the use of gene-modified leucoconcentrate prepared from peripheral blood in the plastic blood bag for personalized ex vivo gene therapy. Leucoconcentrate obtained from mini pig peripheral blood was transduced with a chimeric adenoviral vector (Ad5/35F) that carried an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) reporter gene in the plastic blood bag. The day after blood donation, the mini pigs were subjected to moderate SCI and four hours post-surgery they were intravenously autoinfused with gene-modified leucoconcentrate. A week after gene-modified leucoconcentrate therapy, fluorescent microscopy revealed EGFP-expressing leucocytes in spinal cord at the site of contusion injury. In the spleen the groups of EGFP-positive cells located in the lymphoid follicles were observed. In vitro flow cytometry and fluorescent microscopy studies of the gene-modified leucoconcentrate samples also confirmed the production of EGFP by leucocytes. Thus, the efficacy of leucocytes transduction in the plastic blood bag and their migratory potential suggest their use for temporary production of recombinant biologically active molecules to correct certain pathological conditions. This paper presents a proof-of-concept of simple, safe and effective approach for personalized ex vivo gene therapy based on gene-modified leucoconcentrate autoinfusion. The animal protocols were approved by the Kazan State Medical University Animal Care and Use Committee (approval No. 5) on May 27, 2014.

The results of the predictive analytical studies on Covid-19 incidence dynamics in Moscow, taking into account different changes in epidemic prevention measures, including vaccination coverage of the population, are presented.Research Objective. Using the new epidemiological model for analysis and prediction of the Covid-19 incidence dynamics in Moscow and outlining main strategies in implementing epidemic prevention measures (EPMs), including vaccination in 2020/2021.Materials and methods. The epidemiological model is based on the Russian approach to mathematical modeling of epidemics, known as Epiddynamics. The medium-term forecasting incorporated probable scenarios of epidemic development with different EPMs (isolation of the infected and contacts, breaking the transmission chains), including different rates of vaccination coverage in Moscow.Results and discussion. The computational simulations demonstrated that the incidence rate is likely to increase with scaling down EPMs and zero vaccination coverage. At the same time, the daily incidence rate depends on the degree of EPMs reduction and basically does not depend on the time when the reduction begins. With scaled-down EPMs, vaccination can decrease the incidence, though its effectiveness will depend on the time of its commencement, coverage and rate.Conclusion. The computational simulations showed that the vaccination will be efficient for prevention of new surges in COVID-19 cases only if the other EPMs (isolation of the infected and contacts, breaking the transmission chains) are still in place until the vaccination coverage reaches about 2 million people. Ideally, the measures aimed at isolation and breaking of transmission chains should be continued until the total vaccination coverage reaches 4 million people, after which the restrictive measures can be scaled down significantly. With vaccination coverage of 50% of the population of Moscow, the restrictive measures can be completely discontinued.

Subject of Research. The paper deals with the development of methodological principles, scientific basis for the recognition of piece specific small parts and finished production items on a thin gas layer. The proposed principle is based on the use of a layer as a carrier and recognizing main element of the technical pneumatic system. Together with the design features of the working surfaces of devices, the creation of universal pneumatic equipment is provided. The developed equipment is able to solve successfully the following tasks: control, classification, sorting, rejection and orientation of the production item. The principle of recognition is described. Characteristic elements of the technical pneumatic system are considered. Specific parts and their classification, types of work surfaces and device circuits with certain functional capabilities are presented. Method. The elements of pattern recognition theory were used. In particular, a new recognition method was proposed by a generalized criterion (specific load). Two orientation keys were obtained (bearing surface area of the product and its mass). A new technical pneumatic system was of the form: “pneumatic chamber–device working surface–thin gas layer–production item”. It formed the basis of the proposed class of devices with certain functional capabilities. Main Results. It is shown that pneumatic equipment based on the presented technical pneumatic system has wide functional capabilities: versatility, multifunctionality, the ability to manipulate specific production items, flexibility when switching from one standard size of parts to another. Practical Relevance. Modeling and coding of the presented system is the first step for software product development aimed at automated design of modern pneumatic equipment with certain functional capabilities.

We calculate the current–phase relation (CPR) of a SN-S-SN Josephson junction based on a SN bilayer of variable thickness composed of a highly disordered superconductor (S) and a low-resistivity normal metal (N) with proximity-induced superconductivity. In such a junction, the N layer provides both a large concentration of phase in the weak link and good heat dissipation. We find that when the thickness of the S and the N layer and the length of the S constriction are about the superconducting coherence length the CPR is single-valued and can be close to a sinusoidal shape. The product IcRn can reach Δ(0)/2|e| (Ic is the critical current of the junction, Rn is its normal-state resistance, Δ(0) is the superconductor gap of a single S layer at zero temperature). Our calculations show, that the proper choice of the thickness of the N layer leads both to nonhysteretic current–voltage characteristics even at low temperatures and a relatively large product IcRn.

The derivatization of graphene to engineer its band structure is a subject of significant attention nowadays, extending the frames of graphene material applications in the fields of catalysis, sensing, and energy harvesting. Yet, the accurate identification of a certain group and its effect on graphene’s electronic structure is an intricate question. Herein, we propose the advanced fingerprinting of the epoxide and hydroxyl groups on the graphene layers via core-level methods and reveal the modification of their valence band (VB) upon the introduction of these oxygen functionalities. The distinctive contribution of epoxide and hydroxyl groups to the C 1s X-ray photoelectron spectra was indicated experimentally, allowing the quantitative characterization of each group, not just their sum. The appearance of a set of localized states in graphene’s VB related to the molecular orbitals of the introduced functionalities was signified both experimentally and theoretically. Applying the density functional theory calculations, the impact of the localized states corresponding to the molecular orbitals of the hydroxyl and epoxide groups was decomposed. Altogether, these findings unveiled the particular contribution of the epoxide and hydroxyl groups to the core-level spectra and band structure of graphene derivatives, advancing graphene functionalization as a tool to engineer its physical properties.

Design and improvement of traction electric engines ensuring reduction of the railway transportation power consumption is a current long-term objective. The objective is to develop technical requirements to the new electric engines, including implementation of the set haulage performance of locomotive, providing for constant power in the certain range of the running speed, as well as required properties in case of the supply network parameters change, selection of the weight and dimensions parameters ensuring fitting of the traction electric engines in the locomotive underframe, and other important tasks. The new technology is proposed for forecasting the engine properties using simulation modeling of the hauling features and electrical characteristics of engine in order to resolve the above mentioned objectives. The proposed pulsating current traction motor model takes into account the eddy currents effect on the processes of magnetic flux changes in the engine steel and the nature of electromagnetic processes in the engine. Electric component of the engine simulation model is added with the torque mechanical balance equation that allows assessing its operating properties to the full extent. Results of calculations are presented in the form of the engine electromotive force attenuation curve calculated for specific mode of operation at the armature current of 780 A and the initial value of electromotive force amounting to 525 V. Obtained parameter of attenuation correlates with the experimental data presented in the other information source. Value of determination factor between the specified curves certifies adequacy of the developed simulation model. Proposed model of engine and methodology of its design allows modeling its operation in transition and in static modes of operation. Engine properties obtained by means of the proposed simulation model n = f(iа) and M = f(iа) are almost similar to the properties of traction engine NB-514 in the entire range of the armature current change iа. Proposed simulation model allows designing pulsating current traction motor with the set operating properties, as well as studying the engine parameters effect on its energy indicators.

Introduction. An incomplete list of graphene properties includes high electric conductivity, thermal conductivity, strength, large surface area, high light transmittance. Graphene is a very promising material from the point of view of its application in micro- and nanoelectronics. In addition, graphene advantage is a possibility of its obtaining by various ways. It allows creating materials with desired physicochemical properties by using appropriate technological methods. Objective. The investigation of a thermal reduction temperature influence on physicochemical properties of graphene oxide (GO) films. Materials and methods. In the present work, GO films are obtained on a slide surface by its immersing and removing from a graphene oxide water dispersion (dip coating). Obtained samples are studied by methods of scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and elemental CHN analysis. A sheet resistance is measured by a four-point probes method. Results. A content difference of elements (C, H, N) in studied samples, and both graphene structure defectiveness and sheet resistance decrease, are found to be proportional to a reduction temperature increase. A GO films thickness decrease during a heat treatment is also observed, which is presumably associated with a functional GO groups loss while thermal reduction. Conclusion. Research results demonstrate a possibility of a carbon films with desired physicochemical properties obtaining from a reduced graphene oxide (RGO), which can be used in thin-film technologies. Presented materials can also be useful in issues related to GO and RGO obtaining and applying.

Проблематика. Аналіз статистичних даних показав, що переважно причиною автомобільних аварій є помилки водіїв. Через це протягом останніх 10-ти років активно виконують розробки в галузі розпізнавання дорожніх знаків і перешкод на шляху руху автомобіля. Автовиробники пропонують готові системи, вмонтовані за внутрішнім дзеркалом заднього виду та підключені до бортового комп’ютера автомобіля, що контролює його в критичній ситуації. Основними недоліками систем цього класу є невисока дальність розпізнавання дорожніх знаків, залежність оптичних параметрів від температури та низька світлочутливість. Мета дослідження. Змоделювати атермальний об’єктив для камери високої роздільної здатності, дослідити характеристики лінз залежно від температури довкілля. Методика реалізації. Аналіз і моделювання об’єктивів, лінз, оптичного скла з різних матеріалів. Результати дослідження. Запропоновано об’єктив камери високої роздільної здатності для всіх типів автомобілів. Розроблено атермальний об’єктив для камери високої роздільної здатності. Висновки. Розглянуто оптимізовану атермічну конструкцію об’єктива видимого спектра для автомобільних камер дальнього радіуса дії. Автомобільні камери зазвичай мають фіксований фокус, а камери, спрямовані вперед, зазвичай потребують відносно великих фокусних відстаней для надання інформації про віддалені об’єкти. Оптична система для цих камер має забезпечувати високу роздільну здатність, а також працювати в широкому діапазоні температур довкілля. Параметри конструкції камери отримані з функціональних вимог розпізнавання дорожніх знаків на відстані 200 м. Конструкція об’єктива має п’ять лінз зі сферичними поверхнями. Об’єктив має відносний отвір f/2 і МПФ понад 0,5 за 111 л/мм у всьому температурному діапазоні.

Diatoms are one of the main paleo-indicators of lake changes, as they are preserved in bottom sediments for centuries. The present study reports new data on diatoms in the bottom sediments of Lake Shira and compares them with diatoms from the bottom sediments of Lake Utichye-3, which is situated close to Lake Shira (Khakassia, Russia). The results showed that both lakes have undergone changes in the past, and the species compositions have changed several times. The dominant species in Lake Shira is now Cyclotella choctawhatcheeana Prasad, a planktonic marine species. Rhopalodia constricta (W. Smith) Krammer is a benthic brackish or freshwater species that often occurs in Lake Shira. The lower layers of sediments, dating from approximately the 17th century, were dominated by the freshwater plankton species Aulacoseira ambigua (Grunow) Simonsen and A. italica (Ehrenberg) Simonsen; Staurosira venter sensu lato (Ehrenberg) Cleve & JD Möller, a benthic freshwater species, also occurred there. The bottom sediments of Lake Utichye-3, with the exception of the lower layers, were dominated by C. meneghiniana Kützing (a planktonic brackish or freshwater species). This species was also found in the upper layers of the bottom sediments of Lake Shira. This suggests that conditions in Lake Shira and Lake Utichye-3 were once similar. Surirella peisonis Pantocsek (a marine species) prevailed in the lower layers of the core of Lake Utichye-3. Thus, we can say that the climatic conditions in the region where the lakes are situated have changed several times

Distal biceps brachii tendon ruptures are relatively uncommon injuries with numerous surgical exposures and methods of fixation offered for repair. The goal of surgical management is to restore the anatomic footprint of the biceps tendon on the radial tuberosity. Distal biceps fixation techniques include the use of bone tunnels in the bicipital tuberosity, tendon fixation with interference screws and cortical button that are competitive with alternative methods of suture anchors and transosseous sutures. Amplification of technical surgical aspects allows for a safer procedure, more aggressive postoperative rehabilitation and reduced recovery period for the elbow joint. Objective The purpose was to present the clinical experience and compare methods of fixation of tendon ruptures in terms of their advantages and disadvantages, implants’ effect on postoperative function recovery in a group of patients followed for three years. Material and methods A retrospective review included 20 patients with distal biceps brachii tendon ruptures that required surgical treatment. Results Positive outcomes were achieved in 19 cases (95 %). Disability period was 33.5 ± 0.5 days in a group of intellectual workers and 45.5 ± 0.71 days in physically active patients or sportsmen. Conclusion The findings showed advantages of combined tendon fixation with cortical button and biodegradable interference screw. The results of treatment were shown to rank more than twice over those achieved with suture anchors and transosseous sutures.

Multilayer YAG/Nd3+:YAG/YAG composite laser ceramics were obtained by the reactive sintering in vacuum. The effect of the neodymium ion concentration (1–4 at.%) on the formation of defects and optical quality of composite ceramics was studied. It was found that neodymium ions modify densification kinetics during solid-state reactive sintering of the highly-doped Nd3+:YAG ceramics by decreasing shrinkage rate in the temperature range 1320–1350 °C. Differences in phase transformation kinetics during reactive sintering lead to generation of pores at the interface of adjacent layers which decrease the optical homogeneity of fabricated YAG/Nd3+:YAG/YAG composite ceramics. The influence of layered structure on the laser performance of optical ceramics was investigated. It was shown that the ceramics with multilayer composite architecture have slope efficiency almost twice as the single-layer ceramics with the same composition (22% and 12.5%, respectively).

Background. The importance of psychosocial factors in the management of bronchial asthma (BA) is discussed in clinical guidelines, including in international and national clinical guidelines. However, a specific evaluation of their role as a cause of poor asthma control in susceptible patients is required. Aim. Assessment of psychological health of women with different levels of asthma control.Materials and methods. The study included 108 women with asthma observed in Saratov center for Allergology who were stratified into 3 groups according to the control level (good, partial, uncontrolled, according to GINA). In establishing a diagnosis of asthma, standard methods were used (medical history, symptoms, spirography). To assess the level of control, ACQ-5 (Asthma Control Questionnaire 5 items-self-administered) was used, to assess the quality of life, questionnaires AQLQ-S (Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire S); SF-36 (36-ltem MOS Short-Form Health Survey), a standardized and validated Russian version of the women’s health questionnaire WHQ (Women’s Health Questionnaire) were used; for psychological diagnosis and evaluation of social and personal competencies that contribute to the preservation and improvement of human health (the intellectual, personal, emotional, physical, social, creative, spiritual aspects), integrated multimodal questionnaire was used. The comparison was conducted with a control group of men with bronchial asthma, comparable in age and level of control.Results. Women with poorly controlled asthma had worse performance of AQLQ-S (combined median score of 3,43 instead of 5,13 in the group of good control; p < 0,05); all scales of the SF-36, including the general condition (43,48 against 55,07), role of physical (25,93 against 57,76) and emotional problems (43,83 against 64,37); at p < 0.05. According to the WHQ questionnaire (the inverse relationship: the higher the score, the lower the quality of life) in the group with poor control there is a high level of depression (mean 0,36 versus 0,24; p < 0,05); physical health problems are marked (0,47 against 0,27; p < 0,05). There is a very low selfestimation of their attractiveness in BA (0,71 and 0,64 for bad and good control, respectively). According to the integrated multimodal questionnaire, in both men and women with asthma almost identical results were obtained on the scales sensitive to manifestations of anxiety-depressive symptoms, emotional balance, scales of emotional skills, correlating with severe alexithymia and low capacity for reflection. Among women the proportion of individuals with high scores of intellectual functioning, strong-willed competence, goal-setting, and ability of making contacts was higher.Conclusion. The severity of asthma and disease control are closely linked with the psychological condition of the patient. Psychological dysfunctions are correlated with suboptimal BA control. It is important to understand psychological differences in women and to educate patients in both effective BA control and in establishing individualized asthma management strategies.There is a need for a multidisciplinary approach aimed at the identification and effective correction of asthma. The study of the psychological characteristics of personality and motivational sphere of the patient can help to optimize therapy, improve monitoring and prognosis of the disease.

In the present work the air/acetylene flame atomic absorption spectrometry was used for bismuth determination in complex oxides. Interference studies were carried out, and interference with vanadium and molybdenum was detected. The method of standard additions and traditional calibration curve method were used. Calibration and standard addition curves were fitted with linear and polynomial functions. It was shown that using polynomial function gives better results for the standard additions method for determination of bismuth by acetylene/air flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The calibration curve method was shown to be correct at low ( 10mg/L) concentration of an interferent.

While many researchers attempt to build up different kinds of ontologies by means of Wikipedia, the possibility of deriving high-quality domain specific subset of Wikipedia using its own category structure still remains undervalued. We prove the necessity of such processing in this paper and also propose an appropriate technique. As a result, the size of knowledge base for our text processing framework has been reduced by more than order, while the precision of disambiguating musical metadata (ID3 tags) has decreased from 98% to 64%.

The paper presents findings of an extensive research into the urban plan of Bolgar. The authors present evolution of scholars’ perceptions (from the early 20th century to the present) regarding the structural plan of this Golden Horde town. Some first ideas about the urban plan of the medieval Bolgar developed in the beginning of the 20th century. They were based on localization of then surviving ruins of large buildings and landscape features. Once some systematic archaeological research began (in 1938), it allowed the researchers to accumulate a vast amount of data about different elements of Bolgar’s urban planning. The territory of this fortified place revealed fragments of streets and squares with different types of paving, new monumental buildings and some buried structures. This allowed the researchers to advance a few versions regarding the development of its urban planning. Thus, A.P. Smirnov (1974) suggested a fan pattern for the development of its urban communications. The principle of historical landscape zoning of the urban territory into districts was formulated by T.A. Khlebnikova (1987). Thus, Kh.G. Nadyrova, a researcher of architectural history, classifies the Golden Horde town of Bolgar as a linear town, with distinguishable estates and urban districts (2013). Geo-information systems (GIS) offer new opportunities for research of urban development of medieval hillforts. The article examines the newest elaborations concerning Bolgar, including their results and prospects.

Meromictic lakes located in landlocked steppes of central Asia (~2500 km inland) have unique geophysiochemical characteristics compared to other meromictic lakes. To characterize their bacteria and elucidate relationships between those bacteria and surrounding environments, water samples were collected from three saline meromictic lakes (Lakes Shira, Shunet and Oigon) in the border between Siberia and the West Mongolia, near the center of Asia. Based on in-depth tag pyrosequencing, bacterial communities were highly variable and dissimilar among lakes and between oxic and anoxic layers within individual lakes. Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes were the most abundant phyla, whereas three genera of purple sulfur bacteria (a novel genus, Thiocapsa and Halochromatium) were predominant bacterial components in the anoxic layer of Lake Shira (~20.6% of relative abundance), Lake Shunet (~27.1%) and Lake Oigon (~9.25%), respectively. However, few known green sulfur bacteria were detected. Notably, 3.94% of all sequencing reads were classified into 19 candidate divisions, which was especially high (23.12%) in the anoxic layer of Lake Shunet. Furthermore, several hydro-parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, H2S and salinity) were associated (P< 0.05) with variations in dominant bacterial groups. In conclusion, based on highly variable bacterial composition in water layers or lakes, we inferred that the meromictic ecosystem was characterized by high diversity and heterogenous niches.

The degradation of polyhydroxyalkanoate films was firstly studied in brackish Lake Shira at different depths, 3, 9, 13 and 20 meters, those corresponded to the layers of stratification. It is found that poly (3-hydroxybutyrate) and copolymer poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) with less crystallinity are destroyed with varying intensity. The maximum mass loss of polymer films and decrease in polymer molecular weight were registered at 3 m, in oxygenic epilimnion where temperature is the highest. The phenomenon of polymer films destruction were also found in the chemocline and anoxic low-temperature monimolimnion, at 20 m depth.

For the first time the presence of gibel carp Carassius gibelio has been detected in the brackish meromictic Lake Shira (Southern Siberia, Republic of Khakassia). Lake Shira has been continuously studied since the late 19th century, and it has been considered so far that there is no ichthyofauna in the lake. This work investigates the growth and population characteristics, as well as food spectra and fatty acid composition of C. gibelio specimen at different ages that were fished out in the summers of 2007 and 2008. The water salinity at the fishing point was 15 g l-1. The food spectrum of one- and two-year old C. gibelio was dominated by diatomic, green and blue-green algae, while four- to sixyear old species had an increased share of copepods, beetles and chironomids in their food spectrum, and beginning from the age of six years the amphipods Gammarus lacustris consisted significant part of gibel carp diet. Thus, it was shown that C. gibelio is a carnivore with regard to the population of amphipods Gammarus lacustris, which have been regarded so far as the upper link in the trophic cascade of Lake Shira. One of the possible reasons for appearance of fish is the decreased water salinity caused by rising of the lake level. In the recent years, the level of Lake Shira exceeded all the values that had been registered since the late 19th century, and the lakes salinity decreased correspondingly to its smallest value for the whole period of observation.

We prepared platinum nanoparticle ink usable for the fabrication of MEMS microheatersof high-temperature gas sensors and thermoresistors operating up to 450 °C and present somepreliminary results on the application of the ink in sensor microheater manufacturing. The inkconsists of platinum particles (3⁻8 nm) suspended in ethylene glycol solution of polyvinylpyrrolidone.The ink is usable in both InkJet and AerosolJet printers. The annealing at temperature of about 600 °Cleads to the formation of uniform microheater structure. The experiments on microheater agingconfirm the stability of the printed microstructure at 450 °C for at least one year of operation. Thesubstrates used for printing were thin alumina and LTCC ceramics with thickness of 12⁻20 μm.