Size Dependence of the Band Gap of Core-Shell Tantalum and Tantalum Oxide (V) Nanoclusters.

Monodisperse films of spherical tantalum oxide (V) nanoclusters and spherical tantalum nanoclusters with a tantalum oxide shell with diameters of 1.4-8 nm were obtained by magnetron sputtering. The size of the deposited nanoclusters was controlled using a quadrupole mass filter.

Recent Advances in Structured Catalytic Materials Development for Conversion of Liquid Hydrocarbons into Synthesis Gas for Fuel Cell Power Generators.

The paper considers the current state of research and development of composite structured catalysts for the oxidative conversion of liquid hydrocarbons into synthesis gas for fuel cell feeding and gives more detailed information about recent advances in the Boreskov Institute of Catalysis. The main factors affecting the progress of the target reaction and side reactions leading to catalyst deactivation are discussed. The properties of the Rh/CeZrO/AlO/FeCrAl composite multifunctional catalyst for the conversion of diesel fuel into synthesis gas are described.

Musculoskeletal symptoms and exposure to whole-body vibration among open-pit mine workers in the Arctic.

Objectives: This cross-sectional questionnaire study was carried out at 4 open-pit mines in Finland, Norway, Russia and Sweden as part of the MineHealth project. The aim has been to compare the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms between drivers of mining vehicles and non-drivers.

Material And Methods: The mine workers were asked whether they had suffered from any musculoskeletal symptoms during the previous 12 months in specified body regions, and to grade the severity of these symptoms during the past month.

Comparative evaluation of X-ray contrast myography and ultrasound study in diagnosis of occupational myofibrosis].

The article presents results proving significant advantage of ultrasound examination vs. X-ray contrast myography in diagnosis of occupational myofibrosis early stages. The authors recommend implementation of thi s method into medical examination practice for better diagnosis of occuptional myofibrosis to objectify decision on linking the disease with occupation.

Alternative investigation methods in toxicologic hygienic evaluation of industrial and environmental objects.

North-West Public Health Research Center, 4, 2-ya Sovetskaya str, S.-Petersburg, Russia, 191036 The authors reviewed toxicologic alternative investigation methods used in Russia for evaluation of occupational and natural environment.