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The aim of the work is to study the possibilities of distinguishing between men with fatty disease of alcoholic and non-alcoholic origin using the viscoelastic parameters of erythrocytes - deformation amplitude, summerized indicators of viscosity and rigidity (baseline and after exposure to ethanol in vitro) obtained using the method of erythrocyte dielectrophoresis; to determine associations of the amplitude of deformation, summerized viscosity and rigidity of erythrocytes with blood lipid levels. The study involved 54 men (44,62±1.52 years) with fatty liver disease according to ultrasound of the abdominal organs, the severity of fibrosis corresponded to 0-1 (FibroScan® 502 Echosens, France). All patients underwent a study of the viscoelastic parameters of erythrocytes - the amplitude of deformation, summerized indicators of viscosity and rigidity by the dielectrophoresis method: the baseline level of indicators was determined, as well as their values after exposure of red blood cells with 10 μl of 0,0 2% ethanol solution in vitro for 300 s. The dynamics of changes in the viscoelastic parameters of erythrocytes during the experiment with alcohol in patients with fatty liver disease of unknown origin made it possible to highlight two groups with diametrically opposite trends in erythrocyte indices. The group with a decrease in the amplitude of erythrocyte deformation against the background of an increase in summerized viscosity and rigidity (n = 26) consisted mainly of patients with metabolic syndrome who do not drink or occasionally consume alcohol in low doses (less than 20 g in terms of pure ethanol). Group with increased erythrocyte deformability and decrease in summerized viscosity and rigidity (n = 28) includes systematic alcohol consumers who were in a state of abstinence. Ethanol exposure, important energy substrate of this group, built into metabolic processes, led to an increase in the amplitude of cell deformation. Correlations of the viscoelastic parameters of erythrocytes with the style of alcohol consumption, components of the metabolic syndrome, lipid profile indicators, and liver tests were established. Direct associations of the amplitude of erythrocyte deformation with the level of HDL cholesterol and inverse - with the values of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides were identified. Summarized viscosity and rigidity correlated with the levels of these lipid indicators inversely compared with the amplitude of deformation. The diagnostic accuracy of distinguishing between NAFLD and AFLD using models, including the viscoelastic parameters of erythrocytes and their changes after exposure to ethanol, using Random Forest and SVM methods reached 99 %, sensitivity of 98 % and specificity of 99 %.

Relevance. In the conditions of the dry-steppe zone of lowland Dagestan, the beneficial effect of drip irrigation in combination with dump cultivation on the yield and quality of sweet pepper fruits from Moldova proved. Results. It experimentally established that maintaining moisture in the active 0.5 m soil layer during the growing season within 80- 100% of LMC against the background of dump processing to a depth of 0.23-0.25 m led to an increase in yield and biochemical composition of sweet pepper fruits. Differences in the influence of dump and small (0.10-0.12 m) tillage on agrophysical and phytosanitary indicators of fertility of meadow medium loamy soil were revealed. The data showing the inappropriateness of using small-scale cultivation under conditions of irrigated vegetable growing, which leads to a deterioration in the agrophysical indicators of fertility: increase in soil density by 0.05-0.08 t/m3, decrease in the number of water-resistant units by 7,0%, water permeability reduction by 22.0% and water resistance coefficient by 12.9%, 2.1 times increase in planting weed and 212.6% potential soil weed. Of the three studied thresholds of soil moisture (70, 80 and 90% LMC), it was established that the best conditions for plant growth and development, optimization of their photosynthetic activity are created at a humidity threshold of 80% LMC, at which the most efficient use of irrigation water is noted. Drip irrigation with maintaining the pre-irrigation threshold for soil moisture not lower than 80% of against the background of dump processing leads to an increase in the number of fruits on 1 plant, an increase in the mass of 1 fruit, which contributed to an increase in yield to 62 t/ha.

We present the results of applying functional cytometric test of antigen-stimulated activation basophils to assess specific immunological reactivity in the people with anthrax, and immunized with anthrax vaccine. As a criterion for antigen-specific basophil activation, we measured expression of the CD63 membrane receptor, which reflects the process of anaphylactic basophil degranulation. To determine spontaneous and antigen-induced activation of basophils (CCR3+CD63+), a FlowCAST reagent kit (Buhlmann laboratories AG, Switzerland) was used. Anthraxin, an experimental anthrax allergen (a hydrolysate the Bacillus anthracis STI-1 strain), manufactured by the Stavropol Anti-Plague Institute, was used as a specific antigen. As based on clinical and experimental data, a threshold value of > 10% of anthraxin-activated (CCR3+CD63+) basophils was accepted for the in vitro immunodiagnostic CAST test, as a laboratory criterion for the subjects exhibiting specific immune response, i.e., IgE-mediated sensitization. It was shown that, in anthrax patients within one week after onset of the disease (3-7 days), a positive CAST result was obtained in 92.3% cases; the levels of specific basophil activation with anthraxin averaged 37.9% (12.01 ÷ 78.9%). Immunological examination of individuals three weeks (21 days) after vaccination against anthrax revealed CAST-positivity in all the vaccinated persons. Intensity of anthraxin-induced basophil activation the vaccinated subjects was ranged from 10.87 to 30.03%, averaging 17.86%. The overall values of spontaneous and specific activation ranged within 12.39 ÷ 41.46%. The study opens prospectives for implementation of basophil antigenic activation test in the Flow CAST format in diagnostics of anthrax and to identify specific immune rearrangements after vaccination in humans, as an index of actual vaccination rates. Usage of CAST test with anthraxin makes it possible to identify anthrax patients at the early stages (2-4 days after onset of the disease) including, among patients with an increased CCR3+CD63+ background values, evaluation of immunological efficiency in the cohorts at risk for vaccination. At the same time, it was found that a significant decrease in diagnostic sensitivity of CAST test could be observed in the patients immune to anthrax pathogen who received intensive antibacterial and pathogenetic therapy at the early stages of infection, including glucocorticosteroids (anti-inflammatory drugs) and desensitizing agents that inhibit the degree of hypersensitivity development and its expression.

The influence of different species and ecological forms of higher aquatic plants on the abundance, biomass and species diversity of zooplankton was investigated in experimental ecosystems (microcosms). It was shown that in the absence of fish and macroinvertebrate predators, the abundance and diversity of zooplankton in the plants beds increased. Not only phytophilous, littoral, and small planktonic crustaceans, but also some large obligate planktonic crustaceans, reached a high abundance among the plants. Plants belonging to different ecological groups stimulated an increase in the abundance of different groups of zooplankton. In the beds of submerged plants, the number of Cladocera increased to a greater extent than Copepoda or Rotifera. The abundance of Copepoda, both Cyclopoida and Calanoida, grew in the beds of helophytes. The relative number of predators in the community increased among the plants. The species structure and quantitative parameters of zooplankton had their own characteristics in monospecies and mixed phytocenoses of the same plant species. The index of species diversity of zooplankton acquired the highest values in the mixed phytocenosis. Higher aquatic plants increase spatial heterogeneity, which stimulates the development of facultative planktonic and benthic species. The formation of phytogenic detritus and the lifetime release of organic substances by plants into the water causes the development of bacteria and protozoa, which expands the quality and size range of food organisms for zooplankton. Therefore, zooplankton becomes more diverse in terms of the set of trophic groups.

Objective: to evaluate the levels of metalloproteinases as a prognostic factor for early postoperative period in patients with blunt splenic injuries.Materials and methods. The study included 96 patients with blunt splenic injuries. Isolated lesions were detected in 47 patients (49 %), whereas 22 patients (22.9 %) presented with combined injuries. Study participants were divided into two groups. Group 1 included 47 patients with isolated injuries; Group 2 comprised 22 patients with combined trauma. We used the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) to estimate the severity of injuries. We also assessed serum levels of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1) and matrix metalloproteinases 2, 7 and 9 (MMP-2, MMP-7, and MMP-9). Blood samples were collected from the peripheral vein on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, and 13 postoperatively.Conclusion. Metalloproteinases play an important role in the development of complications after blunt splenic injuries. Changes in serum levels of TIMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-7, and MMP-9 are not similar and depend on the severity of lesions. Patients with AIS grade 3 isolated splenic injuries had the most significant changes, whereas individuals with AIS grade 1 injuries had minimal changes. Patients with grade 1 lesions demonstrated faster normalization of their laboratory markers (by day 5 postoperatively) compared to patients with grade 3 lesions, who had their laboratory parameters normalized only by day 13 postoperatively. Patients with combined and multiple injuries had changes in the parameters measured already one day postoperatively; no complete restoration was achieved by day 13.

This study was undertaken to evaluate early and late postoperative periods in patients operated on for gunshot abdominal wounds. We found that the main drawbacks in providing medical care to civilians with severe gunshot injuries received in local conflicts included the lack of pre-hospital emergency care, proper infrastructure for the hospital stage, continuity in treatment, rehabilitation, and the ability to analyze treatment outcomes. Improper training of personnel to provide assistance to patients with severe combined trauma is also an important factor. The main criteria for choosing active surgical tactics for patients with gunshot abdominal wounds received in a regional conflict include the anatomical landmarks of the injury, poor or critical condition of the patient, shock, and absolute signs of a penetrating wound. More than two-thirds of patients with gunshot abdominal wounds (76.4%) develop complications in the late postoperative period, primarily postoperative ventral hernias and adhesions in the abdominal cavity.

INTRODUCTION. Splenic injuries in abdominal trauma is one of the most common injuries in abdominal surgery. The damage to this organ occurs in 22.3–30%. This is the second most common injury among damages to parenchymal organs.AIM OF STUDY. To study the immediate results of treatment and to determine the factors that influence the choice of tactics for open injuries of the spleen.MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study included 75 patients with abdominal wound and damaged spleen. In 54 (72%) patients, stab and slash wounds were revealed, in 21 (28%) patients there were gunshot wounds (bullet or fragment). All patients were divided into two groups: Group A included 44 (58.6%) of patients, where the time gap between the time of injury and the surgery did not exceed 1 hour, and Group B, which included 31 (41.3 %) of cases, where the time gap between the moment of injury and surgical intervention exceeded 1 hour.RESULTS. As a result of the study, it was found that organ-preserving operations for open injuries of the spleen were possible in 33.3% of cases. The choice of surgical tactics for injuries of this organ depended on the type of damage to the organ: in case of gunshot wounds of the spleen, the organ-preserving operation was not possible at all, but this operation was performed for stab/slash wounds in 33.3% of cases. The development of complications and deaths directly depended on the journey time: in the case of that time gap up to one hour, complications developed in 27.3% of cases, and the mortality rate was 15.9%. If the time of journey exceeded 1 hour, the number of complications increased to 77.4%, and mortality rate grew up to 51.6%. According to our data, the number of complications and deaths depended more on the time of admission than on the type of operation performed. In addition, it is necessary to note one more factor that affected the lethal outcome and this was the type of the wound. Therefore, as a result of the study, it was found that mortality in the group with gunshot wounds amounted to 17 out of 21 (80.95%), and for stab/slash wounds it was 6 out of 54 (11.1%). It was found that the journey time and the type of operation performed operation affected the level of D-dimer in patients with splenic injuries. So, the level of D-dimer was 566±0.3 ng/ml in the group of the wounded, delivered within an hour after trauma, and 643±0.2 ng/ml in the group where the journey time exceeded an hour.CONCLUSIONS. 1. Performing organ-preserving operations with open injuries of the spleen is possible in 46.3% of cases and only for stab and slash wounds. Organ-preserving operations cannot be performed for gunshot wounds.2. The number of complications and deaths is more dependent on the journey time to the hospital than on the type of operation performed. If a patient is admitted within an hour after trauma, the complication rate is 27.3%, and mortality rate is 15.9%. If the journey time exceeds one hour, the complication rate is 77.4% and the mortality rate is 51.6%.3. In patients splenic inguries, the journey time and the type of the operation performed affect the level of the D-dimer, which may affect the course of the immediate postoperative period.

Modern software development is based on a systems approach, in which a program or software complex is considered as a system of interacting software components. Models of software components are analogs of complex system subsystems. Therefore, a complex program is considered as a system of software components. The organization of the structure of software components affects the quality and result of the program. The organization of interaction between software components affects the efficiency of the program. An important factor in the system of software components is the life cycle, which determines the effectiveness and feasibility of using this program. Software differs from many complex systems and information systems in that it has the ability to increase its life cycle. Moreover, the need to increase the life cycle is characterized by two factors: external and internal. The internal factor arises due to the obsolescence of the program. In this case, it does not meet the new conditions, for example, a new operating system. The external factor arises from external influences in the form of interference or purposeful actions, such as computer viruses. The problem of creating the structure of software components of computing systems and information systems that ensure the duration of the life cycle in the presence of external influences is topical. The study of this problem contributes to the improvement of the technological base of computing systems and information systems that solve applied problems. The article presents a new life cycle model based on two models of growth and degradation. The article recommends a resource-based approach for life cycle assessment. As an analytical solution, it is proposed to use a logistic equation, which describes the mechanisms of the life cycle formation process quite well. The article discusses three types of resource in calculations: physical, technological and communicative. A general redundancy solution is proposed to create a network with the inclusion of a multigraph model.

In order to develop the most diagnostically informative methods for carrying out antigen-stimulated cellular tests in vitro a careful selection of stimulating agent (antigen) is required, possessing an adequate activating potential and providing specificity of the reaction.Objective of the study was to identify the qualitative indicators of experimental batches of brucellosis antigen preparations designed for cellular tests in vitro.Materials and methods. Initially we produced antigen complexes of brucellosis microbe on the basis of the vaccine strains of three epidemically significant Brucella species (B. abortus, B. melitensis, B. suis). Quantitative determination of WsAg and PPBC proteins of experimental preparation series was performed applying capillary electrophoresis. Qualitative composition was assessed through ion exchange liquid chromatography with refractometric detection.Results and discussion. We have specified physical-chemical features, investigated chromatographic profiles and composition of protein fractions, as well as tried the produced experimental batches of brucellosis antigen preparations. After analyzing the defined protein and polysaccharide composition of the obtained WsAg samples, one can conclude that WsAg preparation cannot be used for cellular tests as the probability of non-specific lymphocyte reaction manifestation in vitro was experimentally proven. By contrast, complex brucellosis antigen preparation PPBC has an expressed specific activity and specificity under in vitro conditions and the prospects to be used when developing methodological approaches for laboratory diagnosis of brucellosis and assessment of de facto immunity rate in risk contingents after vaccination. The obtained parameters will allow for proper quality provision when manufacturing the developed experimental PPBC preparation designed for cellular tests in vitro, taking into account modern validation and standardization regulations.

Introduction. Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 4D is a hereditary demyelinating neuropathy, that occurs with the high frequency in patients of Roma origin. It is characterized by early onset at the age of 2–10 years and hearing impairment, manifested by the 3rd decade of life.Aim of the study. To describe the clinical and genetic characteristics of Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 4D in Russian patients of Roma origin.Materials and methods. For 14 probands from unrelated families of Roma origin with a clinical diagnosis of Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, genetic tests for the pathogenic variants c. 442C>T in the NDRG1 gene and c. 3325C>T in the SH3TC2 gene was carried out. For 8 patients with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 4D, detailed clinical and electrophysiological examination was performed.Results. In 11 families of Roma origin, the c. 442C>T pathogenic variant in the NDRG1 gene in a homozygous state was detected, which accounted for 79 % all observed Roma patients with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease. There are 12 of the 14 tested families live in the European part of Russia, 7 of them are from nearby regions. The average age of onset was 3.3 years. The first symptom in 7 of 8 patients was gait disturbances. At the time of examination (age range 6–19 years), all patients showed marked hypotrophy and weakness of the feet, lower leg, hands muscles, feet deformities, reduction or loss of tendon reflexes.Discussion. Due to the detection of only one pathogenic variant in most Russian patients of Roma origin with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, the knowledge of the ethnicity of a proband with early myelinopathy can significantly simplify the confirmation of the diagnosis on the molecular level.

The article reveals the main trends and staffing impediments in higher educational institutions based on the analysis of legislation and standards, academic literature, statistics and the available management experience of educational activities in engineering training areas. The targeted training attributes as a framework for vocational training management are also specified in the paper.Shortage of academic staff capable to use the efficient advanced technologies for rebuilding the training process quickly under changing both labor market environment and students’ interests is one of the main factors that today compromises the quality of highly qualified personnel training for the national economy causing serious concern of higher education authorities and educational institutions administration. The lack of interest of academic staff to conduct scientific researches due to on the one hand, by the increased competition for grants, targeted subsidies for fundamental and applied research and the inability (lack of skills) of many applicants to apply for funding correctly and timely, on the other hand contributes to low indicators of the research activities.The authors have concluded that the targeted training, which allows organizing the training process for young professionals starting from high school graduates, could be the main framework for recruiting them to teaching and researching positions that is undoubtedly to the benefit of an educational institution.

Background. Ewing’s sarcoma is one of the most common musculoskeletal cancers in children and adolescents. Extremely aggressive clinical course of Ewing’s sarcoma makes a successful treatment of this tumor difficult. Despite a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of this cancer, including chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy, rapid tumor progression, recurrence and resistance to chemotherapy are still common.Our purpose was to present the results of a personalized approach to multidisciplinary combination treatment for musculoskeletal cancer involving polychemotherapy, 3D conformal radiation therapy and modern surgical technologies.Description of the clinical case. A female patient presented to Rostov Research Institute of Oncology complaining of a tumor and moderate pain in soft tissues of the left iliac region, left lower extremity, and lameness when walking. After complete examination, the patient was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma of the left ilium with lung metastases (Т3N0M1). The patient received 6 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy according to EURO EWING 2008 protocol; tumor progression and lung metastasis were registered. Two cycles of second-line chemotherapy were performed; by the decision of the doctors’ council, the first stage of surgical treatment was performed: resection of the left ilium and the defect replacement with a temporary cement spacer. In the postoperative period, the patient underwent 8 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy, external beam radiation therapy to the lungs (12 Gy total dose) and the primary tumor (46 iGy total dose), and 12 cycles of supporting therapy. A delayed second reconstructive stage of surgical treatment involved removal of a temporary cement spacer and implantation of an individual pelvic stability system. The patient was followed-up for 25 months after the combination treatment, had no complaints, and was able to ambulate without assistance; the motor function of the left hip joint was fully preserved. Conclusion. The use of non-standard high-technology approaches to surgical treatment of unfavorably localized Ewing’s Sarcoma in combination with chemo-radiation therapy allows patients with advanced tumors to achieve satisfactory results and good quality of life.

The aim of the work was to study the compositional features of fatty acids of erythrocyte membranes and blood serum in patients with fatty liver disease of alcoholic (AFLD) and nonalcoholic (NAFLD) genesis for possible use for differential diagnosis. A total of 80 men (51.8±3.9 years) with AFLD (n = 28) and NAFLD (n = 52), as well as 20 conditionally healthy individuals were examined. The composition of erythrocyte membrane and serum fatty acids (FA) was studied using a chromatography mass spectrometry system based on three Agilent 7000B quadrupoles (USA). Differences in levels and ratios of FA in blood serum and erythrocyte membranes were revealed in patients with alcoholic and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Increased esterification of FA, increased synthesis of polyunsaturated (PUFA), enhancing liver damage caused by ethanol, a significant role of oleic and linoleic acids are associated with AFLD. Patients with NAFLD showed elevated levels of potentially lipotoxic saturated FA (margarine, stearic, arachinic, pentadecanoic) with a decrease in monounsaturated (palmitoleic, elaidic, oleic). A decrease in the content of docosahexaenoic n-3 PUFAs against the background of a compensatory increase in the level of docosapentaenoic FA n-6 with an omega-3 deficiency, increased consumption of omega-6 PUFAs suggest defective desaturation of unsaturated fatty acids and increased longchain PUFA peroxidation followed by oxidative stress, especially insulin resistance. The synthesis of triglycerides provides a protective mechanism against toxic accumulation of free FA in the liver. Correlation was established between the levels of FA erythrocyte phospholipids and components of the metabolic syndrome, markers of alcohol consumption. Pilot diagnostic models have been obtained that make it possible to distinguish patients with NAFLD and AFLD from healthy patients (AUC 0.892, sensitivity 0.82, specificity 0.88 for NAFLD; AUC 0.811, sensitivity 0.74, specificity 0.80 for ASFLD), as well as NAFLD from AFLD (AUC 0.790, sensitivity 0.73, specificity 0.78). FA profiles of erythrocyte membranes and blood serum are reliable biomarkers of disorders in lipid metabolism in patients with fatty liver disease of various genesis and are promising from the point of view of differential diagnosis.

The paper discusses the existing approaches to the use of point and cable sensors to control leaks and humidity. The principal disadvantages of monitoring systems based on them are shown: when detecting leaks, there is a delay in the response time due to the condition of fluid accumulation around the sensors; when controlling the humidity of extended environments, it becomes necessary to install a large number of point sensors with individual switching channels; there is no universal sensor for monitoring leaks and humidity. An alternative solution is proposed - a sorption cable sensor with a large sensitivity range, which, as a leak detector, can be placed anywhere in 3D space where leakage is most likely, and as a linear humidity sensor, it can replace point sensors in an extended control zone. The research results of the developed cable sensors confirm their high sensitivity, speed and relaxation ability to recover (dry) after leaking. The areas of application considered in the article, examples of the implementation of a sorption cable sensor in a system for monitoring leaks and air humidity of computing nodes with liquid cooling of Russian supercomputers testify to the high efficiency and development potential. Based on sorption cable sensors, it is possible to build effective systems for early detection of leaks by the first signs of their manifestation, environmental humidity control systems and universal leakage control systems, steam breakthroughs and the level of relative humidity. Reducing the time for detecting leaks and steam breakthroughs will allow taking preventive measures to prevent the development of damage, and the use of cable humidity sensors instead of distributed point sensors will dramatically reduce the cost of organizing humidity monitoring of extended environments.

Relevance. Klebsiella pneumoniae is a major cause of severe healthcare-associated infections in children, representing one of the six most widespread multidrug-resistant microorganisms worldwide and requiring the implementation of population-wide treatment strategies.Aim. To study the risk factors for Klebsiella spread in pediatric healthcare settings.Materials and Methods. Here we performed a descriptive retrospective epidemiological study of Klebsiella spp. cases in pediatric units across the entire Kemerovo region (2012–2019). In total, we documented 27,852 treatment outcomes. We further selected 52 confirmed cases and assessed their risk profiles in comparison with 738 condition-matched control children.Results. Average incidence of Klebsiella spp. detection in pediatric healthcare settings was 78.52 per 1,000 patients (95% CI = 75.42–81.74). We revealed a declining incidence of Klebsiella pneumoniae infection in the region, with notable 4-year cyclicity. The proportion of Klebsiella pneumoniae-infected patients increased 2-fold after 5 days of antibiotic therapy. Among the risk factors of Klebsiella pneumonia infection were artificial feeding (OR = 9,21, 95% = 3,31–35,45, р = 0,0001), assisted ventilation (OR = 7,36, 95% CI = 3,92–14,0], р = 0,0001), use of nebulizers (OR = 5,34, 95% CI =2,49 – 10,9], р=0,0001), airway management (OR = 4,62, 95% CI =2,49–8,56, р = 0,0001), preterm birth (OR = 2,55, 95% CI =1,38 – 4,69, р=0,001), low body weight (OR = 2,48, 95% CI = 1,34–4,56, р = 0,002), enema administration (OR = 1,80, 95% CI = 0,78–3,81, р = 0,088), and nasogastric intubation (OR = 1,79, 95% CI = 0,85–3,54, р = 0,065).Conclusions. The incidence of Klebsiella pneumoniae infections is currently lowering and has 4-year cyclicity. Antimicrobial treatment is associated with 2-fold increased risk if administered for ≥ 5 days. A number of healthcare-associated risk factors of Klebsiella pneumoniae infections have been found.

Abstract. Aim. The possibility of obtaining the regressive part of the elastic (regressiveprogressive) characteristic under axial loading in the initial period is studied by applying an elastic rod having an initial curvature under vertical compressive load. The objective of the study is to determine the static characteristics of such a rod without taking the resistance forces into account. Method. To solve the problem, the elliptic parameters method was used to make a comparison with a solution obtained using the finite element method in the ANSYS engineering simulation software. Results. A technique was developed for assessing the strain state and displacements of a flexible rod with initial curvature in order to study the regression-progressive characteristic of various elastic systems having initial curvature for their effective use in determining oscillations. Conclusion. The obtained technique can be used to determine the deformed state of an elastic flexible rod having initial curvature and displacement of the point of application of force. At the same time, by setting various initial parameters of the flexible rod in order to obtain a regressive-progressive characteristic, significant displacements can be obtained in the subcritical region when the axial load does not exceed the Euler force for this flexible rod

The article deals with chemical properties of honey as well as wax and beeglue before and after the process of caramelization. The research has been done to study chemical reactions of caramelization of honey and other bee products; the biochemical properties of the obtained substances have been investigated as well. It has been revealed that biological activity of the compound after thermochemical heating of honey in the presence of special catalysts was discovered. Infrared spectra, moisture, viscosity, size and distribution of nanoparticles, elemental composition, oxymethylfurfural content, diastase number of caramelized honey have been investigated. The difference between the sizes of nanoparticles of raw and caramelized honey has been revealed, namely caramelized honey (1.5-2.0 times) of smaller size encourages their biochemical activity. On the basis of the results obtained from caramelized honey, wax and beeglue as well as their properties, the chewing gum with biologically active components for the prevention and treatment of periodontal tissue diseases (gingivitis, periodontitis and periodontal disease) was invented. Clinical studies on chewing gum with honey, wax, and beeglue have confirmed that it provides health benefits among 72 % of patients.

Motivation is based on the principle of providing employees with opportunities to realize personal goals through a conscientious attitude to work. Motivation at the enterprise is connected, first of all, with a skillful combination of management methods, formation of the most effective management style. It is implemented in the process and forms of recruitment, contract terms, the system of remuneration and incentives, training and is the foundation of any organization, largely determining its competitiveness.

ABSTRACT Bacteriophages represent a promising option for the treatment of Clostridioides difficile (formerly Clostridium difficile) infection (CDI), which at present relies on conventional antibiotic therapy. The specificity of bacteriophages should prevent dysbiosis of the colonic microbiota associated with antibiotic treatment of CDI. While numerous phages have been isolated, none have been characterized with broad host range activity toward PCR ribotype (RT) 078 strains, despite their relevance to medicine and agriculture. In this study, we isolated four novel C. difficile myoviruses: ΦCD08011, ΦCD418, ΦCD1801, and ΦCD2301. Their characterization revealed that each was comparable with other C. difficile phages described in the literature, with the exception of ΦCD1801, which exhibited broad host range activity toward RT 078, infecting 15/16 (93.8%) of the isolates tested. In order for wild-type phages to be exploited in the effective treatment of CDI, an optimal phage cocktail must be assembled that provides broad coverage against all C. difficile RTs. We conducted experiments to support previous findings suggesting that SlpA, a constituent of the C. difficile surface layer (S-layer) is the likely phage receptor. Through interpretation of phage-binding assays, our data suggested that ΦCD1801 could bind to an RT 012 strain only in the presence of a plasmid-borne S-layer cassette corresponding to the slpA allele found in RT 078. Armed with this information, efforts should be directed toward the isolation of phages with broad host range activity toward defined S-layer cassette types, which could form the basis of an effective phage cocktail for the treatment of CDI. IMPORTANCE Research into phage therapy has seen a resurgence in recent years owing to growing concerns regarding antimicrobial resistance. Phage research for potential therapy against Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is in its infancy, where an optimal “one size fits all” phage cocktail is yet to be derived. The pursuit thus far has aimed to find phages with the broadest possible host range. However, for C. difficile strains belonging to certain PCR ribotypes (RTs), in particular RT 078, phages with broad host range activity are yet to be discovered. In this study, we isolate four novel myoviruses, including ΦCD1801, which exerts the broadest host range activity toward RT 078 reported in the literature. Through the application of ΦCD1801 to phage-binding assays, we provide data to support the prior notion that SlpA represents the likely phage receptor on the bacterial cell surface. Our finding directs research attention toward the isolation of phages with activity toward strains possessing defined S-layer cassette types.

Among all living organisms on planet Earth, those that are invisible to the naked eye are the most abundant, most widely distributed and are indispensable for the continuation of life which they themselves originated. This review article has been prepared by going through important historical as well as recent literature on microorganisms with the primary purpose of dissemination of knowledge. It starts with the discovery of microorganisms and takes the reader through the key developments that enabled us to understand the invaluable roles they play in our lives, their possible origin on this planet, their diverse ecosystems and the amazing recent findings of some their existence several kilometers below the Earth’s surface. Such subterranean communities appear to possess hitherto little known metabolic systems which are yet to be fully resolved. Moreover, whether these organisms originated in their ultra deep habitats or were transported down from the surface during the early formation of the primitive Earth by processes of subduction is still a matter of speculation. This review article is expected to arouse curiosity to pursue further research studies to unravel more novel information on the diverse activities, ubiquitous distribution and potential utilization of these organisms.

Aim. To determine the inflammation and calcification activity in aortic stenosis (AS) by assessing the accumulation of 18F-FDG and 18F-NaF in the aortic valve; to study the relationship of the AS severity, aortic calcification and the accumulation of 18F-FDG and 18F-NaF. Material and methods. The study included 62 patients with asymptomatic AS (29 patients with tricuspid (TAV) and 33 with bicuspid (BAV) aortic valve), aged 40 to 70 years. The maximum flow rate at the aortic valve (Vmax) differs from 2,4 m/s to 4,5 m/s. The mean age of patients was 59,44±7,33 years, M:W 1:1. Patients with infective endocarditis and chronic rheumatic heart disease were excluded. The AS severity was assessed according to the standard protocol of transthoracic echocardiography with the use of Vivid 7 ultrasound system (GE,USA). All patients underwent combined positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) of the aortic valve using the Discovery 710 system. Evaluation of calcification and inflammation activity of the aortic valve was performed using 8F-NaF and 18F-FDG PET/CT. A quantitative assessment of radiopharmaceuticals accumulation was carried out using uptake ratio indices. The calcium score was calculated using SmartScore 4.0 software.Results. Patients with TAV and BAV were comparable in severity of AS, the median Vmax was 2,9 [2,6; 3,4] m/s and 2,9 [2,3; 3,3] m/s, respectively. Also, TAV and BAV patients did not differ in calcification values (Agatston score 1088 [465; 2192] and 1128 [442; 2391] HU, respectively). The association of 18F-FDG accumulation and AS severity has not been established. At the same time, the association was found between the aortic valve peak velocity and the calcium score (r=0,57, p< 0,0001), as well as the 18F-NaF accumulation values — maximum, mean and maximum to mean (r=0,37, p=0,002; r=0,46, p=0,0001 and r=0,41, p=0,0008, respectively). No association between the accumulation of 18F-FDG and 18F-NaF (r=0,098, p=0,49) was found.Conclusion. It was found that the inflammation according to 18F-FDG PET/CT does not play a significant role in AS pathogenesis. At this time, 18F-NaF PET/CT is a reliable method for the AS diagnosis and valve calcification assessment. It can be used to evaluate the prognosis and effectiveness of therapy in TAV and BAV patients.

Aim. To evaluate the informative value of biomarkers (cardiac troponin l (cTnl), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP), stimulating growth factor (ST2)) as laboratory markers of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in patients with ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (STEACS) undergoing endovascular revascularization.Material and methods. The study included 115 patients with STEACS who underwent endovascular myocardial revascularization. To identify the informative value of biomarkers, the levels of cTnl, NTproBNP, hsCRP, sST2 were analyzed at baseline, as well as after reperfusion therapy on the 2nd (cTnl) and 5th (sST2, hsCRP, NTproBNP) days. Contrast-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was performed 5 days after endovascular intervention.Results. Microvascular obstruction was detected in 54 patients (47%), of which 24 (44%) patients had a combination of microvascular obstruction and myocardial hemorrhage. ln 61 cases (53%), no microvascular damage was registered. lt was found that with an increase in the threshold initial NTproBNP levels >590 pg/ml, the odds ratio (OR) of myocardial reperfusion injury was 12,2 (95% confidence interval (CI), 4,81-30,92, p8,1 ng/ml, OR=7,17 (95% CI, 3,11-16,53, p=0,001); for hsCRP >14 mg/L, OR=12,71 (95% CI, 5,03-32,08, p=0,001); for NTproBNP >334 pg/ml, OR=11,8 (95% CI, 4,88-28,59, p=0,001); for sST2 >41 ng/ml, OR=7,17 (95% CI, 3,11-16,53, p=0,001). According to multivariate analysis, predictors of microvascular injury were the initial NTproBNP values, as well as the cTnI, hsCRP, and sST2 values in the early postinfarction period (sensitivity — 89,5%, specificity — 83,3%).Conclusion. Thus, the initial NTproBNP, as well as cTnI, hsCRP, sST2 values after percutaneous coronary intervention are more informative for assessing the risk of microvascular damage.

The actuator disc method is an engineering approach to reduce computer resources in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of helicopter rotors or aeroplane propellers. Implementation of an actuator disc based on rotor circulation distribution allows for approximations to be made while reproducing the blade tip vortices. Radial circulation distributions can be formulated according to the nonuniform Heyson-Katzoff “typical load” in hover. In forward flight, the nonuniform disk models include “azimuthal” sin and cos terms to reproduce the blade cyclic motion. The azimuthal circulation distribution for a forward flight mode corresponds to trimmed conditions for the disk rolling and pitching moments. The amplitude of the cos harmonic is analysed and compared here with presented in references data and CFD simulations results.