bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profile of Adaptive Physical Education Facilities and Infrastructure in Private and Public Schools: A Case in the City of Bandung
Authors: LM Wiyan Khairunnisa Ramadanti , Anira Anira , Budiana Dian
Published: July 2023

Facilities and infrastructure are essential to the learning process, especially in adaptive physical education learning for children with special needs. Special Schools (SS) need adequate facilities and infrastructure so that the learning process can be effective. The purpose of this study is to find out how to describe the level of availability of adaptive physical education learning facilities and infrastructure in SS throughout the city of Bandung. The research method uses a quantitative descriptive. The sample of this research is six public SS in Bandung city with a purposive sampling technique. The instrument used is an observation sheet based on the Regulation of the Minister of National Education Number 24 of 2007 concerning Standard Facilities and Infrastructure for Elementary, Junior, and High Schools in Indonesia. Data analysis uses quantitative description as outlined in the form of a percentage. The results showed that adaptive physical education learning infrastructure in special schools throughout Bandung in 2021-2022 was in the 'fair' category with a percentage of 44%, and infrastructure in the 'very good' category with a rate (of 86%). Details related to facilities and infrastructure are also explained.
Innovative Exercise in a New Normal
Authors: Kitmetheekun Rungsaowaluk , Vongsrangsap Suppawan
Published: July 2023

Innovative exercise is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle. The availability of various resources has made it easier for people to find activities that they enjoy and that meet their fitness goals. In addition to traditional exercises like running, weightlifting, and yoga, there are also new, exciting forms of exercise such as virtual reality fitness, aerial yoga, and trampoline workout classes. Technology has also played a major role in making exercise more accessible and convenient. For example, there are fitness apps that allow users to track their progress, set goals, and participate in virtual workout classes from the comfort of their own homes. Wearable fitness devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, make it easy to monitor physical activity and track progress in real-time. In addition to these technological advancements, there is also an increased focus on making fitness facilities more inclusive and accessible to all. This includes the incorporation of accessible equipment, sensory-friendly environments, and adaptive fitness programs for individuals with disabilities. Overall, the trend towards innovative exercise is not only providing people with new and exciting ways to stay active, but it is also helping to address the challenges posed by the pandemic and other emerging health threats. By continuing to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances, the fitness industry is playing an important role in promoting health and wellness for people around the world.
The Evaluation of Promoting Ideas and Improving Life Through Movement’s Workshop Project
Authors: Mai-on Ing-on , Changkeaw Atcharaphan , Kanalit Salakjit , Napranbun Paiboon , Kaewjaratwilai Torsak
Published: July 2023

The research aims to study the result and approaches of applying knowledge from the promoting ideas and improving life through movement’s workshop project. The participants were 38 people. Research instruments were a questionnaire and a semi- structured interview. The research statistics were frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and content analysis. The data was conducted after 2 weeks of training via online and telephone interviews. The results showed that 1) the participants able to apply the knowledge to integrate in teaching and learning, and apply them in practice, overall, is in the highest level. And is in the highest level in every aspects. 2) Approaches for applying knowledge to work is to apply the principles and knowledge gained to meet the objectives of the activities by designing activities according to the principles of movement correctly to continue to integrate in teaching and learning management.
Identificación espacial del riesgo por deslizamiento de tierra en el municipio de Autlán de Navarro, Jalisco, México
Authors: González-Bolaños Fátima , Olguín-López José Luis , Guevara-Gutiérrez Rubén Darío , Palomera -García Carlos
Published: July 2023

El municipio de Autlán presenta problemas de cambio de uso de suelo y erosión que favorecen los deslizamientos de tierra. La identificación espacial de este fenómeno (5 clases de riesgo) muestra que 3 localidades se ubican en riesgos altos y muy altos (Autlán, Ahuacapán y Mezquitán), debido principalmente a la influencia de los suelos Regosol, precipitación anual y máxima en 24 horas con una relación estadísticamente significativa de P < 0.05, R2 = 0.99, 0.66 y 0.86. El deslizamiento presenta un riesgo para la infraestructura y la población encontrando una relación significativa (α= 0.001) entre el número de viviendas y densidad de población por localidad solo para amenaza regular a alto al deslizamiento de tierra. Al no existir una planeación de uso de suelo por parte del municipio se plantea realizar actividades de atención y remediación principalmente en zonas urba- nas ubicadas en estructuras sensibles al deslizamiento tomando en cuenta los resultados obtenidos.
Mapeo geomorfológico de los municipios de Guaraciaba do Norte y Carnaubal, en el estado de Ceará, Brasil
Authors: Souza-Fernandes Nayane Barros , Falcão-Sobrinho José
Published: July 2023

This study analyzes the importance of the municipalities of Guaraciaba do Norte and Carnaúbal, both located in the sedimentary plateau of Ibiapaba, in the northwest portion of the state of Ceará. That being said, the objective was to map the relief compartments, indicating the models and the dissection index of them using a scale of 1:300,000, in order to highlight the current state of the re- lief of the area. In this perspective, it presents aspects of geomorphological cartography, emphasiz- ing its importance for geoform studies and for environmental planning. We adopted the theoretical and methodological proposal of Ross’ geomorphological mapping (1990) based on the taxonomic analysis of the relief inspired by the conceptions of morphometry and morphological sculpture. Four morphological and sculptural subunits were mapped with flattening and denudation patterns, which presented dissection index of the relief varying between weak and moderate, that is, areas in some way in equilibrium even with elevation and slope with high values. It is concluded the diversity of forms of relief which reflect in the scenery of the landscapes.
Planes comunitarios de riesgos en Suramérica. Una revisión sistemática
Authors: Rosales - Veítia Jose Andres , Marcano-Montilla Arismar
Published: July 2023

This research consisted of a systematic review based on the criteria of the PRISMA statement, con- figured through a search in Scopus, Dialnet; and Google Scholar databases, for the period between 2005 and 2021 of research that addresses the topic of community risk plans (CRPS). The inclusion of the publications was based on criteria such as studies focused on disaster risk management, community experiences, research conducted in South America, works in textual format, studies published by government entities, publications by corporate authors, works leading to degree published (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral); and publications with open access. The selection process was developed in two phases, yielding a total of nineteen works that were reviewed (n=19). The results were analyzed based on: the CRPS in the Hyogo and Sendai Frameworks of Action, by knowledge area, by South American country, and the contributions of research on the CRPS. It was concluded that community plans are presented as an important tool for training and multidisciplinary planning in disaster risk management that promote vulnerability reduction and strengthen resilience in communities.
Sistemas de evaluación de la calidad educativa: repercusiones en la construcción del conocimiento
Authors: Tortajada Carlos
Published: July 2023

El hecho de formar parte de una comunidad supone para el individuo construir unas concepciones comunes que permiten vivir en sociedad. Por ello, es necesario reflexionar sobre cómo dichas concepciones influyen en el pensamiento de los individuos a nivel específico. El proceso de globalización acaecido en los últimos años nos obliga a plantearnos de qué manera afecta a la construcción del conocimiento individual. Concretamente, nos cuestionamos su impacto en la educación y cómo diferentes organismos de evaluación de la calidad educativa podrían influir en las políticas educativas de los diferentes países. De esta manera, los contenidos y competencias a adquirir por parte de los alumnos, estarían supeditados de algún modo a dar respuesta a tales evaluaciones.
Prácticas neoliberales de endo-privatización y nuevas formas de resistencia colectiva en el contexto de la política educativa española
Authors: Saura Geo , Muñoz Moreno José Luís
Published: July 2023

El artículo analiza la incorporación de nuevas prácticas neoliberales y nuevas formas de resistencia colectiva en el sistema educativo español. En primer lugar, exploramos los mecanismos de endo-privatización en la nueva reforma educativa (LOMCE) bajo la lógica de la Nueva Gestión Pública. Analizamos los significados de las evaluaciones estandarizadas, la libertad de elección, los ránquines, los sistemas de incentivos y la autonomía escolar gerencial. En segundo lugar, exploramos cómo la incorporación de estas prácticas neoliberales contemporáneas ha propiciado nuevas formas de resistencia colectiva. Focalizamos el análisis en dos formas de acción colectiva: “Mareas por la Educación Pública” y “La Educación Que Nos Une”.
¿Qué opina el profesorado sobre la LOMCE?
Authors: Monarca Héctor , Fernández-González Noelia , Piedrahita César
Published: July 2023

El artículo presenta los resultados de un estudio de opinión sobre la Ley Orgánica para la Mejora de la Calidad Educativa (LOMCE), aprobada en noviembre de 2013. Forma parte de un estudio de opinión más amplio sobre todas las leyes generales de educación que ha tenido España desde la vuelta a la democracia y sobre el libro blanco de la función docente no universitaria de 2015. En este caso se ofrecen los resultados correspondientes a los 20 ítems relacionados con la LOMCE que han sido valorados de acuerdo con una escala Likert (1-4). Se han obtenido 6054 respuestas de profesores y profesoras de centros públicos y concertados-privados de España. Los resultados muestran una opinión mayoritariamente desfavorable en todos los ítems, lo que invita a reflexionar sobre las políticas públicas en el sector educativo y el lugar que tiene el profesorado en las mismas.
Social democracy and education: Andalusian education policy and private education during the Great Recession in 2008
Authors: Hijano del Río Manuel
Published: July 2023

Este trabajo analiza las acciones del gobierno de una comunidad autónoma -Andalucía- ante la reciente crisis económica en materia de enseñanza privada. Se usan los datos publicados a finales de noviembre de 2017 en la Encuesta de financiación y gastos de la enseñanza privada del INE. Las conclusiones aportan argumentos sobre cómo interviene un ejecutivo de ideología socialdemócrata (PSOE), en una fase de recortes presupuestarios ante la enseñanza privada, tanto la concertada como la no subvencionada. Todo ello en el contexto del sistema educacional más grande de España y tras una política educativa socialista ininterrumpida desde 1982. Se observa cómo este tipo de educación no ha perdido cuota de estudiantes con respecto al total en Andalucía y sus beneficios económicos siguen siendo muy semejantes a los percibidos con anterioridad a la crisis.
El SIMCE como objetivo de las “Horas de libre disposición” del currículum escolar en Chile
Authors: Sandoval Balcázar Claudio
Published: July 2023

La Jornada Escolar Completa aumentó en un 30% las horas pedagógicas de la jornada escolar en Chile, justificada por la idea que una mayor cantidad de tiempo mejoraría los aprendizajes de los estudiantes. Como consecuencia, las escuelas debieron enfrentarse a importantes desafíos en relación a su infraestructura y a la gestión del nuevo tiempo disponible, que contrario a lo propuesto, fue utilizado mayoritariamente para desarrollar dispositivos enfocados en mejorar los puntajes obtenidos en el SIMCE. El siguiente ensayo analiza la influencia de esta evaluación sobre el currículum escolar, específicamente sobre las horas de libre disposición, análisis que da cuenta de la discordancia entre los objetivos propuestos por la normativa y las acciones que el “Estado Vigilante” emprende para su consecución.
Relación entre repetición de curso, rendimiento académico e igualdad en educación. Las aportaciones de PISA
Authors: García Perales Ramón , Jiménez Fernández Carmen
Published: July 2023

El cuerpo de este artículo lo constituye el análisis de las investigaciones realizadas por la Organización para la Cooperación y el Desarrollo Económico (OCDE) desde el año 2000, fecha del primer informe PISA, al último, publicado en 2015, a fin de rastrear las evidencias aportadas sobre el valor educativo de la repetición de curso y las circunstancias que concurren en dicha repetición. Las evaluaciones PISA se han convertido en referente internacional dado el elevado número de países y de alumnos y alumnas participantes, su periodicidad y la complejidad de sus análisis. Sus conclusiones aportan datos que influyen en el establecimiento de políticas, innovaciones y prácticas educativas más inclusivas, particularmente en los países de Europa. Del análisis de los resultados de dichas evaluaciones se constata que la repetición de curso no es la medida más idónea para contrarrestar los desajustes escolares de los estudiantes pertenecientes a grupos socialmente vulnerables, y parece estar contribuyendo a la desigualdad en educación durante la escolaridad obligatoria. España aparece entre los países con un alto número de estudiantes repetidores. En definitiva, se puede y debe prever desde la propia escuela la vulnerabilidad escolar y social de los estudiantes repetidores y combatirla con prácticas innovadoras, exigentes e inclusivas, que sustituyan o minimicen la repetición de curso.
Nocturnidad en la educación secundaria técnica. Análisis de una experiencia en la provincia de Santa Fe (Argentina)
Authors: Saccone Mercedes
Published: July 2023

En este trabajo analizamos una propuesta que se está implementando en el turno noche de escuelas secundarias de modalidad técnico-profesional en la provincia de Santa Fe (Argentina), denominada Nocturnidad. Se trata de una “opción pedagógica y didáctica” que pretende reorganizar el cursado recurriendo a la semi-presencialidad mediada por materiales didácticos y TICs. Entendemos que la pregunta por la calidad de los aprendizajes a los que tienen acceso los jóvenes no debe dejar de interpelarnos al analizar estas políticas “novedosas” que proponen las administraciones locales para garantizar el cumplimiento de la obligatoriedad educativa en contextos de pobreza urbana.
El análisis del contexto y su efecto en la práctica de docentes de la educación obligatoria en zonas marginadas de México
Authors: Leyva Barajas Yolanda Edith
Published: July 2023

El propósito del presente trabajo es compartir los resultados de un estudio cualitativo sobre las condiciones de la práctica de docentes de escuelas multigrado, indígenas, telesecundarias y telebachilleratos comunitarios en México. La metodología de recolección de información incluyó la aplicación de una encuesta en línea, así como de un cuestionario breve a resolver de manera colegiada por docentes durante la reunión de consejo técnico de zona y grupos focales en los estados con mayor proporción de escuelas de este tipo. Los resultados permitieron identificar que las condiciones bajo las cuales trabajan estos docentes son precarias, que no existen las condiciones escolares mínimas para el funcionamiento de sus escuelas. Se hizo evidente el problema de desigualdad histórico, que incluye desubicación lingüística, programas y materiales oficiales no pertinentes, carencia de programas de formación para el trabajo en aulas multigrado, con diversidad lingüística, cultural y de rezago educativo.
Una experiencia disruptiva en educación secundaria: el caso del IES Esmeralda
Authors: Pablo Cortés-González Pablo , Leite-Méndez Analía E. , Rivas-Flores José Ignacio
Published: July 2023

Este texto presenta el meta relato del Instituto de Educación Secundaria –IES- Esmeralda (Málaga), un centro que tradicionalmente ha acarreado serios problemas de convivencia, conflictos y fracaso escolar. Desde hace dos años y con la entrada de un nuevo equipo directivo y un grupo de docentes con ganas de transitar otros caminos, se está consiguiendo revertir esta situación, poniendo en tela de juicio las prácticas establecidas en torno a lo didáctico, lo organizativo y en el sentido de la educación. Se recurre a una metodología etnográfico-narrativa para comprender los procesos de transformación. Los resultados más relevantes versan en torno a cinco dimensiones: curricular, formativa, profesional, cotidiana y política.
Lignocellulosic feedstock biorefinery - The future of the chemical and energy industry
Authors: Cheng Shuiming , Zhu Shengdong
Published: July 2023

The sustainable development of the chemical and energy industry is an indispensable component of our sustainable society. However, the traditional chemical and energy industry depends heavily on such non-renewable fossil resources as oil, coal, and natural gas. Its feedstock shortage and the resultant environmental and climatic problems pose a great threat for any type of sustainable development. Lignocellulosic materials are the most abundant renewable resources in the world, and their efficient utilization provides a practical route to address these challenges. The lignocellulosic feedstock bio-refinery is an effective model for the comprehensive utilization of lignocellulosic materials, and it will play vital role in the future development of chemical and energy industry.
Role of PVA modification in improving the sliding wear behavior of bamboo
Authors: Dwivedi Umesh K. , Ghosh Ajoy , Chand Navin
Published: July 2023

This experimental study was conducted to investigate the role of poly-vinyl-alcohol (PVA) treatment in improving the sliding wear behaviour of pure bamboo. The effects of dipping time in PVA solution and applied load on wear behaviour of bamboo samples were determined. The wear volume of bamboo was reduced when it was treated with PVA. The wear volume during sliding was increased with increasing of applied load, whereas the coefficient of friction was reduced on PVA treatment. Worn surfaces were observed by using SEM and discussed to explain the mechanism of wear.
Influence of lignosulfonates on the properties of dimethomorph water-dispersible granules
Authors: Li Zhili , Pang Yuxia , Lou Hongming , Qiu Xueqing
Published: July 2023

Different molecular weight fractions of lignosulfonates (LS), LS having different cations, and modified LS with different degree of sulfonation and intrinsic viscosity were prepared and used as dispersants for Dimethomorph water-dispersible granules (DWG). The suspending ratio of DWG was tested to evaluate the effectiveness of LS as a dispersant. Moreover, the stability of DWG suspensions was measured by a new instrument (Turbiscan LabExpert). The suspending ratios of DWG having different molecular weight fraction of LS increased with increasing molecular weight in a suitable range. The kind of cation associated with the LS didn’t have an obvious influence the effectiveness of LS as a dispersant. Furthermore, the higher degree of sulfonation of LS, of which the intrinsic viscosity was similar, the better was its effectiveness as a dispersant. When the intrinsic viscosity increased within a suitable range, the effectiveness of LS as a dispersant increased. Similar findings were achieved by evaluating the stability of DWG suspensions with all the LS as dispersants, and larger molecular weight could decrease the growth of particle size.
Layer structures formed by silica nanoparticles and cellulose nanofibrils with cationic polyacrylamide (C-PAM) on cellulose surface and their influence on interactions
Authors: Salmi Jani , Nypelö Tiina , Österberg Monika , Laine Janne
Published: July 2023

A quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) was used to study the adsorption of the layer formed by silica nanoparticles (SNP) and cellulose nanofibrils (NFC) together with cationic polyacrylamide (C-PAM) on cellulose surface, accompanied by use of atomic force microscope (AFM) to study the interactions between cellulose surfaces. The purpose was to understand the multilayer build-up compared to complex structure adsorption. The layer thickness and consequently also the repulsion between surfaces increased with each addition step during layer formation in the SNP-C-PAM systems, whereas the second addition of C-PAM decreased the repulsion in the case of NFC-C-PAM multilayer formation. An exceptionally high repulsion between surfaces was observed when nanofibrillar cellulose was added. This together with the extremely high dissipation values recorded with QCM-D indicated that nanofibrillar cellulose formed a loose and thick layer containing a lot of water. The multilayer systems formed fully and uniformly covered the surfaces. Silica nanoparticles were able to penetrate inside the loose C-PAM structure due to their small size. In contrast, NFC formed individual layers between C-PAM layers. The complex of C-PAM and SNP formed only a partly covered surface, leading to long-ranged pull-off force. This might explain the good flocculation properties reported for polyelectrolyte-nanoparticle systems.
Pulp and fiber characterization of wheat straw and eucalyptus pulps - A comparison
Authors: Guo Sanchuan , Zhan Huaiyu , Zhang Chengfeng , Fu Shiyu , Heijnesson-Hultén Anette , Basta Jiri , Greschik Thomas
Published: July 2023

The response to refining of wheat straw and eucalyptus pulps as well as the relationships between refining, fiber properties, and paper properties are described in this paper. Pulps were bleached applying different bleaching sequences and thereafter refined to varying degrees. Pulp and fiber properties were investigated and set into relation to the final sheet properties. The results show that wheat straw pulps respond to refining more easily than eucalyptus pulps and that the differences are due mainly to morphological and ultrastructural differences as well as fines content and xylan content. The development of strength properties of the different pulps was found to be strongly correlated to the number of dislocations, i.e. weak points in the fiber wall, as well as to the morphological appearance of the pulp fibers after refining. A higher initial number and a faster development of dislocations together with the creation of large amounts of fines explain the slower and lower development of strength properties of wheat straw pulps than of eucalyptus pulps. Removal of fines from wheat straw pulps improved not only the drainability of the pulp suspension but also the mechanical and optical sheet properties. This indicates that the fines in the wheat straw pulps act mainly as filler with low bonding properties. The fact that fractionated D(EOP)D wheat straw pulps can deliver good mechanical sheet properties at very good drainability with no or only minor refining is very interesting when evaluating the potential of replacing or partially replacing eucalyptus with domestic Chinese raw materials in furnishes for production of different paper products.
Effects of heat treatment on calabrian pine (Pinus brutia ten.) wood
Authors: Ates Saim , Akyildiz M. Hakan , Ozdemir Hasan
Published: July 2023

In this study, the effects of heat treatment on some physical, mechanical, chemical properties, and cellulose crystallinity of calabrian pine (brutia Ten.) were evaluated. Wood specimens were treated with heat under atmospheric pressure at three different temperatures (130, 180, and 230 oC) and two different time levels (2 and 8 h). Air-dry density (Dm), oven-dry density (D0), shrinkage (β), swelling (α), fiber saturation point (FSP), compression strength parallel to grain (σc//), bending strength (σb), modulus of elasticity (MOE) in bending, equilibrium moisture content (EMC), holocellulose, and alcohol solubility were decreased, whereas 1% NaOH solubility and lignin content were increased, depending on the heating temperature and time. Cellulose crystallinity of the samples was not changed significantly. 130 oC showed a minimal effect; on the other hand, 230 oC showed a maximum effect on all properties of the treated wood. That’s why, for the heat treatment process, 130 oC for 2 h should be applied in situations where mechanical properties such as modulus of elasticity, compression strength, bending strength, and hardness are important. However, 230 oC for 2 h should be used in situations where it is preferred to obtain favorable physical properties, such as density, shrinkage, swelling, and moisture content.
Study of the structure of wood-related biopolymers by sorption methods
Authors: Chirkova Jelena , Andersons Bruno , Andersone Ingeborga
Published: July 2023

The potentialities of different vapour sorption methods are analized for the investigation of the microstructure of wood sorbents (wood, cellulose and lignin) as a particular case of biopolymers. There are two important distinctions in the sorption behaviour of biopolymers from traditional rigid sorbents, namely, the dependence of the characteristics of the porous structure on the thermodynamic properties of the sorbate, and the manifestation of the sorption hysteresis over the whole region of the sorption–desorption isotherm. The reason for these distinctions is the low rigidity (low values of modulus of elasticity) of biopolymers, hence, their considerable deformability under the action of sorption forces, resulting in the cleavage of interstructural bonds. This process, manifesting itself phenomenologically as swelling, depends on the activity of the sorbate and results in the appearance of porosity and a new surface. The criterion for the activity of the sorbate is close values of the solubility parameters of the polymer and the sorbate. Inert substances are adsorbed on the surface of large morphological formations and characterise the intact structure of the sorbent, while active sorbates cause the swelling of these formations and penetrate them, which enables a study of the microstructure of sorbents. In the desorption process, the cleaved bonds are restored, blocking a part of the sorbate in the polymer’s structure, which results in the appearance of sorption hysteresis, not connected directly with the porous structure of the sorbent.
Optimization of mannanse production from Streptomyces sp. PG-08-03 in submerged fermentation
Authors: Bhoria Preeti , Singh Gursharan , Hoondal Gurinder Singh
Published: July 2023

Streptomyces sp. PG-08-3 was isolated from the desert of Rajasthan (India). The organism produced mannanase (15 Umg-1 protein) in the presence of 0.5% guar gum as a sole carbon source in minimal media by submerged fermentation (SmF). Enzyme production was enhanced by 7.3-fold when 0.5% soyabean meal and 0.25% of leucine were added to the minimal media. Increasing the guar gum concentration in the media by 0.1-1.0% resulted in linearly enhanced the production of mannanase.
Modification of papermaking grade fillers: A brief review
Authors: Shen Jing , Song Zhanqian , Qian Xueren , Liu Wenxia
Published: July 2023

The use of fillers in paper products can provide cost and energy savings, improved paper properties, increased productivities, and specifically desired paper functionalities. There are many problems associated with the use of fillers, such as unsuitability of calcium carbonate fillers in acid papermaking, negative effects of filler loading on paper strength, sizing, and retention, and tendencies of fillers to cause abrasion and dusting. In order to solve these problems and to make better use of fillers, many methods have been proposed, among which filler modification has been a hot topic. The available technologies of filler modification mainly include modification with inorganic substances, modification with natural polymers or their derivatives, modification with water-soluble synthetic polymers, modification with surfactants, modification with polymer latexes, hydrophobic modification, cationic modification, surface nano-structuring, physical modification by compressing, calcination or grinding, and modification for use in functional papers. The methods of filler modification can provide improved acid tolerant and optical properties of fillers, enhanced fiber-filler bonding, improved filler retention and filler sizabilities, alleviated filler abrasiveness, improved filler dispersability, and functionalization of filled papers. Filler modification has been an indispensable way to accelerate the development of high filler technology in papermaking, which is likely to create additional benefits to papermaking industry in the future.
Future marketing drivers for the forest products industry
Authors: Dasmohapatra Sudipta
Published: July 2023

The forest products industry in North America is increasingly losing its share in its domestic markets. The pressure of low cost manufacturing combined with a slowing economy has painfully caused many mills to close and many workers to lose their jobs in recent years. We ask ourselves whether the forest products industry will be able to survive these gloomy times and what, if any are the factors that would drive the future of the forest products industry. Opening our minds to global markets beyond domestic consumption, targeting products towards changing demographic structure and resulting change in consumer tastes, developing and marketing products with the environmental conscious consumer in mind, product innovations, efficient management of the supply chain, and trade practices and policies will be some of the marketing drivers in the forest products industry in the new era.
Synthesis of lignin-based inorganic/organic hybrid materials favorable for detoxification of ecosystem components
Authors: Telysheva Galina , Dizhbite Tatiana , Jashina Lilija , Andersone Anna , Volperts Alexander , Ponomarenko Jevgenija , Mironova-Ulmane Nina
Published: July 2023

Combination of lignin matrices (including those modified with silicon oligomers or quaternary ammonium compounds) and such inorganic building blocks as copper and manganese cations (Cu2+, Mn2+) made it possible to synthesize novel hybrid organic-inorganic materials. The synthesized hybrid materials were characterized with significantly increased (2-9 times) values of specific surface area in comparison with those for non-modified and Si-modified precursor matrices. The Cu2+-containing hybrid materials differed by enhanced sorption capacity towards proteins and bacteria.
Sorption of Cu(II) by poly(hydroxamic acid) chelating exchanger prepared from poly(methyl acrylate) grafted oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB)
Authors: Haron Md Jelas , Tiansih Mariati , Ibrahim Nor Azowa , Kassim Anuar , Wan Yunus W. M. Z.
Published: July 2023

This paper describes the preparation of chemically modified oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) with hydroxamic acid functional group and its use for the sorption of Cu(II) from aqueous solution. OPEFB was grafted with poly(methylacrylate) (PMA), using H2O2/Fe2+ as initiator. The PMA grafted OPEFB (PMA-OPEFB) was treated with hydroxylammonium chloride in alkaline medium to produce hydroxamic acid grafted fiber (PHA-OPEFB). The FTIR spectrum of OPEFB grafted with PMA showed an intense absorption band at 1734 cm-1 which is attributed to C=O vibration in the grafted ester. After hydroxylamine treatment, the intensity of absorption band at 1734 cm-1 decreased and new bands appeared at the 1640 cm-1 related to C=O vibration in hydroxamic acid and at the 1568 cm-1 related to the N-H amide. Sorption of Cu(II) by PHA-OPEFB was effective over a pH range of 4 to 6. The sorption followed the Langmuir model with maximum capacities of 74.1 mg g-1 at 25 °C. The sorption process was exothermic, as shown by the negative value of enthalpy change, DH°. The free energy change (DG°) for the sorption was negative, showing that the sorption process was spontaneous. A kinetic study showed that the Cu(II) sorption followed a second order kinetic model.
Water absorption, anti-swell efficiency, and dimensional stability properties of neem seed-oil treated wild grown Bambusa vulgaris Schard. ex J. C. Wendl. in southwest Nigeria
Authors: Erakhrumen Andrew Agbontalor , Ogunsanwo Olukayode Yekin
Published: July 2023

Bamboo culm is a hygroscopic lignocellulosic material. Hygroscopic properties may be disadvantageous in bamboo material if applied in certain applications and modes where and when extreme moisture variations are likely to occur. This study was aimed at evaluating the moisture absorption and resistance including dimensional stability properties of neem seed oil-treated split bamboo samples using two methods of treatment. Split bamboo samples from the same source were oven-dried at 103±2oC, conditioned to 11.76% mean moisture content, and treated by completely soaking them in oil at room temperature for 24 hours and by soaking in hot oil at 60oC for 4 hours, with untreated samples as control. Results showed that samples soaked in hot oil at 60oC for 4 hours had both the least percentage water absorption and higher anti-swell efficiency, followed by samples soaked in oil at room temperature for 24 hours. Shrinkage in the longitudinal, radial, and tangential directions also followed the same trend. Conclusions and recommendations were made in line with the outcome of the study.
Thermomechanical properties of jute/bagasse hybrid reinforced epoxy thermoset composites
Authors: Saw Sudhir Kumar , Datta Chandan
Published: July 2023

Natural fibres are partly replacing currently used synthetic fibres as reinforcement for polymer composites. Jute fibre bundles were high-cellulose-content modified by alkali treatment, while the bagasse fibre bundles were modified by creating quinones in the lignin portions of fibre surfaces and reacting them with furfuryl alcohol (FA) to increase their adhesiveness. The effects of different fibre bundle loading and modification of bagasse fibre surfaces in hybrid fibre reinforced epoxy composites have been studied. The role of fibre/matrix interactions in chemically modified hybrid composites were investigated using Differential Scanning Calorimeter, Differential Thermo Gravimetry, and a Universal Tensile Machine and compared with those of unmodified bagasse fibre bundles incorporated with modified jute fibre bundles reinforced hybrid composites. Fibre surface modification reduced the hydrophilicity of fibre bundles, and significantly increased mechanical properties of hybrid composites were observed in conjunction with SEM images. The SEM analysis of the fibre and the composite fractured surfaces have confirmed the FA grafting and shown a better compatibility at the interface between chemically modified fibre bundles and epoxy resin. This paper incorporates interesting results of thermomechanical properties and evaluation of fibre/matrix interactions.
Reflectance UV-vis and UV resonance Raman spectroscopy in characterization of kraft pulps
Authors: Lähdetie Anni , Liitiä Tiina , Tamminen Tarja , Jääskeläinen Anna-Stiina
Published: July 2023

Reflectance UV-Vis spectroscopy and UV resonance Raman (UVRR) spectroscopy are both nondestructive techniques that are applicable to study trace concentrations of lignin in-situ. In this study, unbleached and bleached softwood kraft pulps were analyzed by reflectance UV-Vis (k/s) and UVRR spectroscopy to follow lignin and hexenuronic acid (HexA) contents and structural changes in residual lignin. The height of the lignin band in the UV-Vis spectra (280 nm) correlated well with the lignin band in the UVRR spectra (1605 cm-1) for semi- or fully-bleached pulps. However, the correlation was much weaker for unbleached pulps. Also the results for hexenuronic acid content by UV-Vis (240 nm) and UVRR (1658 cm-1) methods correlated well for most of the pulps, but for unbleached or peroxide-bleached samples the interference from other structures affecting these bands was obvious.
Cellulosic ethanol via biochemical processing poses a challenge for developers and implementors
Authors: Virkajärvi Ilkka , Niemelä Marita Veringa , Hasanen Antti , Teir Andreas
Published: July 2023

In the future liquid biofuels will need to be renewable, sustainable, as well as technically and economically viable. This paper provides an overview of the challenges that the biochemical production of cellulosic ethanol process still faces. The main emphasis of the paper is on challenges that emerge from the scale of liquid biofuel production. These challenges include raw material availability, other consumables, and side stream handling. The pretreatment, C5 fermentation, and concentration of sugars in processing need improvements, too. Sustainability issues and greenhouse gas reduction also pose a challenge for implementation and require development of internationally recognized sustainability principles and standards, and certification of sustainable operation. Economics of cellulosic ethanol processes are still also an area under development and debate. Yet, the Energy Independence and Security Act mandate together with the European Union Renewable Energy Directive and other local targets are driving the development and implementation forward towards more significant contribution of biofuels in the transportation sector.
The rates of budget-forming taxes in Ukraine: is a radical reduction advisable?
Authors:   State Educational and Scientific Institution ", Sokolovska Alla ,   Academy of Financial Management"
Published: July 2023

In the context of Russian Federation's full-scale war against Ukraine, the idea of conducting a radical tax reform in our country, which would provide for the establishment of corporate income tax, personal income tax and VAT rates at the same level of 10%, has become widespread, and later transformed into the idea of an "anti-corruption" tax reform. According to the reform’s supporters, lowering the rates of the main taxes will ensure the de-shadowing of the economy, destroy the grounds for corruption, and on this basis will lead to an increase in tax revenues, if not in the first year of the reform, then at least in the short term. Optimistic forecasts regarding the fiscal consequences of a radical reduction in the rates of main taxes in Ukraine are based on simplified ideas about the impact of the size of tax rates on the scale of the shadow economy and tax revenues. The purpose of the article is to refute these ideas by revealing, using the results of theoretical and empirical studies, the ambiguous nature of the relationship between tax rates and the size of the shadow economy and tax revenues. A comparative analysis of the rates of VAT, personal income tax, corporative income tax and social security contributions in Ukraine and the EU countries has been carried out, which allows to establish that none of the EU countries has ever introduced low rates for all major taxes and social security contributions, reduced the VAT rate to the level of minimum EU requirements (15%), or refused to finance pension payments through social security contributions, distributing their burden between employers and employees. The author analyzes the impact of tax rates, tax burden and other factors on the level of the shadow economy and establishes why lower tax rates do not guarantee a reduction in the scale of informal activities. The absence of a direct link between the size of tax rates and corruption is substantiated. Based on the analysis of the arithmetic and economic effects of tax rate cuts, the author determines their ambiguous impact on tax revenues. A comparative analysis has been made of the fiscal efficiency of the taxes whose rates are proposed to be reduced and of the compensating taxes, and the impossibility of compensating budget losses by increasing these taxes is substantiated. The author concludes about the high fiscal risks of a radical reduction in the rates of budget-forming taxes in general and the impossibility of such a reduction during the war.
Sequences Similar to the lan-Cluster (Streptomyces cyanogenus S136) Were Found in the Genomes of Other Streptomycetes
Authors: Polishchuk L.V. , Lukyanchuk V.V.
Published: July 2023

The aim of the work is to identify strains of streptomycetes in the genomes of which there are nucleotide sequences similar to the gene cluster determining the synthesis of landomycin A (lan-cluster) and establish the level of similarity of their primary structures and organizations. Methods. Information on the sequences of the lan-cluster of Streptomyces cyanogenus S136 and chromosomal DNAs of S. cyanogenus S136, Streptomyces laculatispora NRRL B-24909, and Streptomyces griseoluteus JCM 4765 and their annotations are presented in the GenBank database on the NSBI server. A computerized analysis of the nucleotide sequences of streptomycetes was done using the program BLASTN from the server NSBI. Results. The localization of the lan-cluster in the terminal region of the S. cyanogenus S136 genome has been shown. The nucleotide sequences similar to the lan-cluster sequence of S. cyanogenus S136 were found in the genomes of two strains (S. laculatispora NRRL B-24909 and S. griseoluteus JCM 4765). Streptomycetes (S. cyanogenus S136, S. laculatispora NRRL B-24909, and S. griseoluteus JCM 4765) are not genetically related strains. Conclusions. There are newly found probable lan-clusters in the genomes of two streptomycetes strains (S. laculatispora NRRL B-24909 and S. griseoluteus JCM 4765). Landomycin clusters of three strains are organized according to the same scheme. The clusters of lan-genes are present in the genomes of genetically unrelated streptomycetes.
Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Action of Probiotic Composition of Bacilli on Bacterial Vaginitis in Mice
Authors: Lazarenko L.M. , Babenko L.P. , Safronova L.A. , Demchenko O.M. , Bila V.V. , Zaitseva G.M. , Spivak M.Ya.
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial and immunomodulatory action of a probiotic composition of Bacillus subtilis and B. megatherium strains (UnicaUro, Sirion (Ukraine)) for experimental bacterial vaginitis. Methods. Experimental studies were conducted on female BALB/c mice; we used Staphylococcus aureus strain B-918 (ATCC 6538) to induce bacterial vaginitis. The strain was vaginally introduced into mice before treatment with probiotic bacteria. In the vagina of mice, aerobic and optionally anaerobic bacteria, including representatives of the genera Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Pseudomonas, coliform bacteria, and microscopic fungi were identified in different periods of observation using generally accepted microbiological methods. Serum antibody titer to S. aureus was determined by the bacterial agglutination reaction. The phagocytic activity and oxygen-dependent bactericidal activity of peritoneal exudate macrophages (PEM) were evaluated using generally accepted immunological methods. Results. The formation of bacterial vaginitis in the BALB/c mice line infected with S. aureus B-918 (ATCC 6538) was evidenced by the appearance of external clinical manifestations of the infectious and inflammatory process against the background of the increased number of aerobic and optionally anaerobic microorganisms, including representatives of the genus Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, microscopic fungi, and decreased number of lactobacilli in different observation periods. The probiotic introduction to mice with bacterial vaginitis led to a dynamic change in the vaginal microbiota: the number of aerobic and optionally anaerobic microorganisms decreased, primarily due to the normalization of the number of representatives of Staphylococcus genus accompanied by a decrease in the antibody titer to staphylococcus in the blood serum. The effective therapeutic action of the probiotic was confirmed by the gradual disappearance of the external clinical signs of the infectious-inflammatory process in the vagina against the background of the functional activity of PEM. Conclusions. The probiotic composition of B. subtilis and B. megatherium (UnicaUro, Sirion, Ukraine) is a promising antimicrobial formulation that may be used in the treatment of bacterial vaginitis; however, further studies are required to confirm its therapeutic, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory efficacy.
Modelo predictivo de la severidad del tizón foliar por Cercospora kikuchii mediante variables meteorológicas
Authors: Lavilla M. , Martínez M. , Ivancovich A. , Díaz-Paleo A.
Published: July 2023

Introducción. En el manejo integrado de enfermedades es importante incorporar elementos como umbrales de daño económico, monitoreo y sistemas de pronóstico de riesgo, los cuales constituyen herramientas para definir estrategias de control de las mismas. Objetivo. Desarrollar un modelo predictivo de la severidad del tizón foliar por Cercospora (TFC) mediante variables meteorológicas para el norte de la provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Materiales y métodos. Se contó con datos de incidencia y severidad del TFC correspondientes a cinco ciclos productivos de soja (2013-2017) de Pergamino, Buenos Aires, relevados en distintos estados reproductivos R1 a R7. La variable dependiente fue la probabilidad de ocurrencia de niveles categorizados de la tasa de incremento (TI) de la severidad del TFC causado por C. kikuchii. Los elementos y variables meteorológicas utilizados fueron registros diarios de temperatura máxima y mínima, precipitación y humedad relativa. Se calculó el coeficiente de correlación no paramétrico de Kendall Tau-b entre los niveles categorizados binariamente de TI de la severidad del TFC y las variables meteorológicas. Resultados. Las variables meteorológicas con mayor correlación en relación con la TI del TFC fueron aquellas relacionadas con la humedad relativa (DHR, MOJRO, DHRT). La inclusión de una variable térmica (GDTmax) resultó importante para el ajuste del modelo predictivo. Conclusión. Se pudo desarrollar un modelo de predicción de la severidad del TFC que incluyó dos variables meteorológicas, una relacionada con los días la humedad relativa y otra térmica relacionada con un límite de temperatura máxima para el desarrollo de la enfermedad. Para validar y robustecer el modelo propuesto es necesario contar con más datos de severidad a través de los años.