In this paper an analysis of the surface properties of (Ti,Pd,Eu)O_x thin films prepared by magnetron sputtering has been described. In particular, the results of composition and structure investigations were studied in relation to the surface state and optical properties. It was found that (Ti,Pd,Eu)O_x film was nanocrystalline and had a rutile structure. The average crystallites size was equal to 7.8 nm. Films were homogeneous and had densely packed grains. Investigation of the surface properties by XPS showed that titanium was present at 4+ state (in the TiO₂form), palladium occurred as PdO₂(also at 4+ state), while europium was in Eu₂O₃form (at 3+ state). In comparison with the unmodiffied TiO₂, the coating with Pd and Eu additives had a rather high transparency (approx. 47%) in the visible light range, its optical absorption edge was shifted towards into the longer wavelengths (from 345 nm to 452 nm), and the width of optical energy gap Egopt was nearly twice lower (1.82 eV). Besides, the resistivity of (Ti,Pd,Eu)O_x at room temperature was 1×10³ Wcm. In the case of the film as-deposited on Si substrate (p-type) the generation of photocurrent as a response to light beam excitation (λ_exc = 527 nm) was observed.

The concept of creation of the geoportal “Environmental Safety of Ukrainian-Polish Transboundary Territories” has been developed. General principles and methodological approaches of spatiotemporal geographically distributed thematic data integration were substantiated. The geoinformation system, which is based on results of monitoring researches of objects of the nature reserve fund in the biosphere reserve “Roztochya”, is considered. The geoinformation monitoring technologies ensure ecological safety management. The proposed geoportal determines directions of information technology implementation for transboundary monitoring of ecosystems in the euroregions.

Neonatal sepsis, defi ned as sepsis occurring within the fi rst 28 days of life, is associated with signifi cant morbidity and mortality. It is undeniable that fi nding and appliance of biomarkers in clinical practice is of great importance, aiming at the early recognition of the impending clinical deterioration and the prompt and targeted therapeutic intervention. Aft er systematic and thorough research of the limited relevant literature, we attempt to present a documented point-of-view on the diagnostic value of TREM-1 and its soluble form both in early and late onset neonatal sepsis.