bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of silver nanoparticles on germination and seedling characteristics of Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis) seeds
Authors: Özel Halil Barış , Şevik Hakan , Yıldız Yafes , Çobanoğlu Hatice
Published: February 2024

Nowadays, the applications of nanotechnology are increasing in various fields such as information technology, energy, the medical sector, and agriculture. Nanotechnology has proved its ability to solve problems in agriculture and related industries. Establishing the impact of nanoparticles on various ecosystems has become a primary research topic, but studies on forest ecosystems and trees are quite limited. This study examined the effects of silver nanoparticles on the germination parameters of oriental beech seeds and established their toxic threshold values. Silver nanoparticles were applied at concentrations of 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 mg/L to oriental beech (Fagus orientalis) seeds collected from 10 different populations in order to identify the germination rate, germination percentage, seedling height, root collar diameter, plumula length, radicle thickness, and radicle length parameters. The results revealed that silver nanoparticles have a negative effect on germination and seedling parameters of oriental beech seeds, and that this effect is clearly seen in the germination rate at 20 mg/L levels and in seedling characters starting from 60 mg/L dose, causing a decrease of 13% in germination rate, 24% in germination percentage, 40% in plumula length, and 30% in radicle length. The Kahramanmaras-Andirin population was found to be the most affected by nanoparticles, while the Bursa-Inegol and Ordu-Akkus populations were the least affected.
Sustainable thermoplastic road marking paint production from natural modified rosins
Authors: Yilmaz Bilge , Deniz İlhan , Fazli Hilal , Bekircan Olcay , Pranovich Andrey , Karaoğul Eyyüp
Published: February 2024

Modified natural rosins were evaluated as binders in the production of thermoplastic road marking paints (TRMPs). Pine rosin (GR), wood rosin (WR), and tall oil rosin (TOR) were used. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI-ToF-MS), and gel permeation chromatography-high pressure liquid chromatography (GPC-HPLC) were performed on natural and modified rosins. Acid number (mg KOH/g) ASTM D 465 – 05 and softening point, (°C) ASTM E 28 – 99 standard tests were applied to the samples. For the optimum synthesis condition, the pentaerythritol/rosin mol/mol ratio is 1/1, with the levels of Irganox 1425/rosin w/w, 0.5%, and TBM-6/rosin w/w, 1.0%. Gel permeation chromatography-high pressure analysis revealed that the esterification reaction yield was over 90% for each of the three natural rosins. Moreover, chromaticity coordinates (x,y), gloss factor (β), softening point (°C), and UVB aging test were applied to TRMPs. Modified natural rosins showed better results in the production of TRMPs. This is an important development and crucial step for sustainable TRMP production.
Sub-Optimum Grade Change Procedures
Authors:   Paper Science Section, Polymer and Fibre Science Department University of Manchester Institute of Science & Technology, Johnston R. E. , Kirk L. A. ,   Paper Science Section, Polymer and Fibre Science Department University of Manchester Institute of Science & Technology
Published: February 2024

A numerical optimisation technique has been used to show, computationally, that simple control trajectories can give considerably reduced grade change times. The models studied include one-pump and two-pump systems with and without changing wire rejection factors. Consideration has been given to some simple constraints.
Computerised Paper Web Profile Control
Authors:   A. Ahistr6m Oy., Varkaus, Finland, Ström U. J. G.
Published: February 2024

This paper presents the Warkaus Mill computer system and is focused particularly on the paper web moisture profile control developed in our company. The aim is to make use of the possibilities given by the second and the third presses with controlled crown rolls. Special attention is directed to profile measurement data analysis techniques and an on-line continuous statistical variation partitioning method is developed . The information is then used for operator guidance control, based on a derived control law . The profile control is not yet integrated in the system, but the control parameters are being established.
The Future of Process Control in the Paper Industry
Authors:   The Mead Corporation, Dayton, Ohio, U.S.A., Wrist P. E.
Published: February 2024

The past decade has witnessed a major advance in the use of process control systems by the paper industry. Before that time, very few variables were controlled automatically, many instruments were either indicating or else, if controlling, were operated in the manual mode much of the time and the degree of instrument reliability and accuracy in the average mill did not promote operator confidence or use . Pneumatic controllers performing simple control loop strategies were the norm. Making paper was an art and frequently different papermakers would operate a machine in quite different ways to make the same given grade of paper. Fairly broad tolerances in paper specifications were accepted in the trade, since few machines could achieve or maintain very stable operations.
The Future of Control Procedures for Management
Authors:   Mechanical Engineering Department, Imperial College of Science and Technology, London, Eilon S.
Published: February 2024

There is no difference, at least in principle, between control of administrative systems and control of other systems. The purpose of a control procedure is to specify the way in which the behaviour of a system can be affected. The controller of the system scrutinises information about the performance of the system and every so often he has to make a decision, namely, to choose between several courses of action open to him. This decision is transmitted to the system with the expectation that it will react in a certain way. This cycle of events monitoring and evaluation of the system’s behaviour, followed by a decision for corrective action is the essence of the control process, irrespective of whether it is control of inanimate systems or managerial control of industrial enterprises.
Plasma-Induced Adhesion in Cellulose and Synthetic Polymers
Authors:   Pulp & Paper Research Institute of Canada and Department of Chemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada, Goring D. A. I.
Published: February 2024

The papermaking bond between cellulose surfaces can be increased markedly by pretreatment of the surfaces in a corona plasma in oxygen or air. The effect is probably due to oxidative degradation of the molecules of cellulose near the surface. Similar increase in bonding can be achieved by treatment with ozone gas. This is the basis of the Paprizone process, in which paper made from mechanical pulp is brightened and strengthened by pretreatment with hydrogen peroxide and ozone. When two surfaces of a thermoplastic such as polythene are pressed together at elevated temperature, autohesion can take place. Pretreatment of the surfaces in a corona plasma lowers the temperature at which autohesion occurs. This effect is probably not caused by surface oxidation, since it can be produced by both oxidising and non-oxidising plasmas. Its origin is uncertain, but a possible explanation is that the discharge causes electret formation in the polymer sheet, which promotes autohesion by facilitating interdiffusion of the polymer molecules on contiguous surfaces. Autohesion of thermoplastics will be most important in processes such as pressing and calendering of sheets containing the new synthetic fibres. Preliminary results have indicated that effects similar to those described above may be obtained by treating cellulose and polythene surfaces in a microwave plasma. The advantage of using microwave energy is that the plasma can be made to fill the entire volume of the treatment chamber, rather than being restricted to a short spark as in the case of a corona discharge.
Factors that Affect the Stiffness of Paper
Authors:   Forest Products Laboratory Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Madison, Wis., U.S.A., Setterholm V. C.
Published: February 2024

Use of paper for structural purposes has prompted research toward better utilisation of materials, determining potential stiffness and procedures to attain such stiffness. Stiffness is dependent on thickness and a new definition of thickness is proposed that facilitates the quantification of paper stiffness with traditional engineering concepts without introducing errors caused by surface roughness. Perhaps equally important as thickness in achieving potential stiffness is specific gravity, because the modulus of elasticity will usually vary as the cube of specific gravity if densification occurs while paper is wet. The most efficient means for control of stiffness is restraint during drying, with a potential for threefold increases in modulus of elasticity. Even larger increases in stiffness in the order of five or sevenfold are awaiting a better means of controlling fibre orientation. A new method is being developed for quantifying interfibre bonding that will be independent of sheet grammage and additives. Moisture is seen as the greatest obstacle to making high performance structural fibre products because of the inability of these products to maintain reasonable levels of stiffness when wet, even when treated with synthetic resins . In spite of this problem, the potential high stiffness and strength-to-weight ratios that are available in wood fibre makes the creation of new structural products from pulp fibres inevitable.
Fundamental Research for Industry
Authors:   Director, The Conference of Industrial Research Associations, The Earl of Shannon
Published: February 2024

How honoured I am to be asked to address this symposium. Most administrators are agreed that the decision on the ‘right’ amount of money to spend on research and development is an art rather than a science. Here, I am quoting from the recent report by Lord Rothschild. Whether or not one agrees with his conclusions-and, from the fur and feathers that flew at the time of the publication of his report, it was obvious that some did not this statement is hardly likely to be challenged, as many of us have found to our cost when faced with making or advising on such decisions. In desperation, one can search for the magic formula, but all too often (when found) it turns out to be a paragram compounded in equivocation. Not only is one faced with the question of how much to spend, but also the interrelated question of what to spend it on and where.
Synthetic and Plastics Papers
Authors:   Wolpert & Jones (Studies) Ltd., London, Wolpert V. M.
Published: February 2024

As this symposium is held in Cambridge, it seems appropriate to speak on semantics, particularly on the terminology of synthetic and plastics papers. Confusion about it prevails in both the paper and plastics industries. It is necessary to emphasis that the synthetic polymers and conventional paper and board industries in some cases compete and in other cases co-operate closely in order to achieve products with required functional properties by making them from materials of both industries, properties that cannot be achieved in products made from materials supplied by one industry only. The consumption of polyethylene for coating paper and board is increasing.
Modification of the Mechanical Properties of Paper by the Addition of Synthetic Polymers
Authors:   Pulp & Paper Research Institute of Canada, Montreal, Canada, Robertson A. A.
Published: February 2024

Polymers have been incorporated into paper by (a) solution impregnation, (b) latex impregnation and (c) latex beater addition. Their effects on the strength properties of the sheet were measured by conventional tests and interpreted in terms of the separate effects of the polymers on bonds and fibres and the distribution of polymer in the sheet. It is noted, however, that the introduction of polymer resulted in time-dependent behaviour that deserves special consideration. Stress relaxation properties were therefore examined and analysed for a variety of polymers and conditions. A procedure is described in which experimental data relating to relaxation and creep are conveniently obtained and can provide the basis for evaluation and analysis.
Formation Testing as a Means of Monitoring Strength Uniformity
Authors:   Swedish Forest Products Research Laboratory, Stockholm, Lyne M. B. , Hazell R. ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
Published: February 2024

In any attempt to predict the durability or runnability of paper in its end uses, a means must be sought that is capable of measuring minimum strengths. Through the use of double exposure interference holography, an analysis is made of the strain variation of newsprint webs under critical tensile loading conditions. The coefficient of variation of strain is compared with formation values, which ideally should be measures of mass distribution. The QNSM, MK Systems and STFI formation testing instruments were used for this purpose and it was found that, in the case of the latter instrument, the index of determination of strain variation could reach 0-81. An assessment of the thermal uniformity of paper webs during tensile straining is facilitated by a liquid crystal thermal analysis and it is found that paper exhibits a particularly uniform distribution of temperature suggesting a constant work field model. While the influence of web defects on strength uniformity is briefly examined in this work, reference is made to a more detailed study to be found in another contribution to this symposium.
A Comparison of the Clinical Performance Between the Lateral Sinus Lifts and Percrestal Sinus Lifts in Severely Atrophied Posterior Maxilla
Authors: AlBattrawi Salma , Doghramje Tania , Tippu Mohammed Shoaib ur Rahman , Azim Sabrin Ali , Moharamzadeh Keyvan
Published: February 2024

Aim/Objective: The objective of our study is to compare the clinical performance between the lateral sinus lift and the percrestal sinus lift techniques in severely atrophied posterior maxilla.Materials and Methods: An electronic search was done by three independent reviewers using a computerized search involving multiple databases focusing on comparative articles discussing the differences between lateral sinus lift technique and percrestal sinus lift technique. The search involved a solid application of the authors’ inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The combined search done by the authors identified 19 eligible articles. 13 of which were excluded strictly based on the inclusion and the exclusion criteria leaving us with 6 accepted articles to conduct this systemic review.  3 of the articles are clinical trials, 2 are retrospective studies and 1 is a prospective study. In all of the 6 selected articles, a comparative discussion between the lateral sinus lift technique and percrestal sinus lift technique was done. Conclusions: The lateral sinus lift technique has higher morbidity and success rates when compared to the percrestal sinus lift technique. However, that does not eliminate the fact that the latter is still a viable choice if a less invasive is necessary or if the alveolar height at baseline is not as diminished.
El Impacto de la Gestión de Riesgos en las Organizaciones: Una revisión de la literatura
Authors: Collins Estrada Renzo Martin
Published: February 2024

Events in the early years of the 21st century, such as the Enron and WorldCom scandals and the financial crises, revealed significant deficiencies in existing control processes and the difficulties companies had in structuring robust risk management models. With the advent of COSO ERM, ISO 31000 and the Sarbanes Oxley Act –as the main frameworks for holistic risk management models– the aim was for organizations to improve their ability to achieve their strategic objectives through activities that manage uncertainty and, above all, create and sustain organizational value. The purpose of this paper is to review the research on the effectiveness of risk management in organizations by reviewing the literature in Scopus and Web of Science. This review shows that the research is not conclusive regarding the real impact generated by risk management systems and their contribution to value creation and increase in financial profitability. It also shows that there is an interesting gap for future research, considering that many of the studies that have been carried out have a special emphasis on the financial sector, neglecting other equally important economic sectors.
Marketing de contenidos en Instagram. El caso Natural Pau Organic en Lima
Authors: Rubio Mendoza Karina Lizeth
Published: February 2024

El objetivo del artículo es determinar cómo el marketing de contenidos se relaciona con la forma cómo los usuarios deciden la compra de los productos de cosmética natural Pau Organic en la red de Instagram. Para ello se utilizó la metodología de enfoque cuantitativo, de diseño descriptivo correlacional no experimental y transversal, para una población en estudio de 11,300 seguidores y una muestra de 372. Se usó la técnica de la encuesta para la recopilación de la información y el instrumento fue el muestro probabilístico. Se demostró que existe una relación significativa entre el marketing de contenidos en Instagram y la forma cómo los usuarios adquieren los productos de cosmética natural Pau Organic en la red de Instagram, con un coeficiente de Spearman de 0,603 que es positivo y moderado, y un nivel de significancia de 0,000.
Influencia de enfoque integral de política sobre la CVGN para la masificación de uso residencial
Authors: Paredes Jaramillo Santiago Victor
Published: February 2024

El presente artículo analizó la influencia de un enfoque integral de la política sobre la Cadena de Valor del Gas Natural (CVGN) para la masificación de su uso residencial para el caso peruano. Para ello, se desarrolla una caracterización de los elementos críticos de la CVGN, se identifican las principales barreras y oportunidades, y se discuten las ventajas de un enfoque integral para su explotación. Esta discusión se basa en la sistematización de información desde fuentes especializadas del sector, la experiencia internacional comparada, y los resultados de un estudio de caso desarrollado con énfasis en el abastecimiento logístico de empresas instaladoras de Gas Natural (GN) en el Perú. En base a los resultados, se plantean cuatro conclusiones. Primero, las condiciones tecnológicas disponibles en materia de procesamiento, transporte y distribución de GN son consistentes con un alto potencial para la masificación. Segundo, el enfoque de las políticas para la masificación ha sufrido serias limitaciones, originadas en parte por el énfasis solo en algunos sectores de consumo, como el residencial y comercial. Tercero, al considerar la integralidad de la CVGN, se enfatiza la importancia de componentes clave; estos incluyen el transporte y la distribución de GN. Esta inatención explica el fracaso de distintas iniciativas legislativas para promover la masificación. Cuarto, tanto desde la experiencia internacional comparada como en base a estudios de caso en el Perú, se enfatiza el aporte de un enfoque integral de la CVGN para promover impactos potenciales sobre la masificación.
LAS ALIANZAS ESTRATÉGICAS, EL CÓDIGO COMPARTIDO Y LOS HUBS EN EL DESARROLLO DEL SECTOR TURISMO
Authors: Begazo Villanueva José Domingo
Published: February 2024

El turismo cumple un destacado papel en el afianzamiento de la identidad nacional, y cumple en la revalorización del espacio y la herencia cultural, estableciendo las bases para el racional aprovechamiento de sus recursos. El viajar mucho proporciona múltiples experiencias, que obligan con frecuencia a revisar ideas adquiridas y abren perspectivas nuevas en el quehacer profesional. Asimis­mo, la actitud actual de viajar es un acto enriquecedor del espíritu y permite una actitud positiva frente al mundo y a la vida, como la sensación de pasear por los cuidados jardines en Kyoto (lapón), o una comida con los Thais en los mercados flotantes de Bangkok (Thailandia), o sentarse a la sombra de una tienda en el desierto del Sahara, con los árabes en Túnez. Pero los viajes además de enseñarnos, nos proporcionan otras cosas como el recorrer ciudades inolvidables: San Petersburgo (Rusia), la Quinta Avenida (New York), la Playa de Copacabana (Río de janeiro), Los Canales de Venecia (Italia). Lugares mágicos como el Valle del Colea en Arequipa (Perú), el espectáculo del Tropicana Show en La Habana (Cuba), etc. La actividad humana de los viajes y de las vacaciones determinadas por todas las motivaciones de desplazamiento, pueden contribuir a la plena realiza­ción del ser humano y a su educación, y puede ayudarle a adquirir conciencia de la identidad de destino de todos los hombres, en la medida en que el hombre mismo sea protagonista.
Bioarchaeological Research of The Home Army’s Soldiers From Raubiszki and Druzhyle Battles
Authors: Kadikinaitė Jovita
Published: February 2024

This article covers the topic of Armia Krajowa’s soldiers and their manner-of-death. AK is a Polish underground military organization that was active during World War II and the post-war period until 1945. Since Vilnius region was occupied by Poland during the inter-war period (1920–1939), multiple historical events in which AK soldiers were fighting against German Nazis and Soviets took place in modern-day Lithuanian territories. Thus, a considerable number of single and mass burials of Polish partisans are uncovered in Lithuania. This research aims to reconstruct the manner-of-death of 9 AK partisans’ skeletal remains from two battles with the Soviets: Družiliai and Raubiškės. The results indicated a wide range of perimortal lesions sustained on the battlefield: perimortal fractures and gunshot wounds. The analysis also revealed pathological lesions that illustrated challenges individuals had faced in their daily partisanship – hard physical labor, malnutrition, non-specific stress.
Experiences, Insights and Reflections in the Discourse of Criticism of Lithuanian Cinema In the 1980s
Authors: Mažuolytė Aistė
Published: February 2024

The narrative of the Lithuanian cinema development attempts to present the Soviet period in a coherent way, focusing on the impact of the Soviet system. However, a broader range of reasons for the malaise of Lithuanian cinema can be found in the criticism of the Lithuanian film cultural field participants. The object of this study is the critical thoughts on the Lithuanian film industry, production, and culture in the 1980s, as captured in the press. Various representatives of the film world and other cultural spheres were involved in the reflection on the poor state of Lithuanian cinema. They gave a radical negative description of the cinema condition and offered different points of view about its reasons. Even though the incompleteness of the thoughts testifies the critical discourse’s dependence on the Soviet system, the argumentative criticism offers a more diverse approach to the Lithuanian cinema in the 1980s.
Differential depot-specific parameters of adipose tissue cellularity and thermogenesis in preobese congenic LA/Ntul//-cp rats
Authors: L Tulp Orien
Published: February 2024

To determine the effects of adipose tissue development during early normal postweaning growth, groups of lean and obese LA/N//tul-cp rats were subjected to measures of caloric intake, linear growth and of adipose tissue mass, cell lipid content, and adipocyte number in principle adipose tissue depots at 6 weeks of age, prior to the expression of significant adiposity. Live body weights and daily caloric intake of obese > lean by 6 weeks of age, but parameters of linear growth were similar in both phenotypes. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) and the thermic response to norepinephrine (NE, 200 µg/KG BW, s.c.) of lean >> obese rats. Adipose tissue mass and combined fat pad mass:body weight ratio of Dorsal Subcutaneous (DOR), Retroperitoneal (RP), Gonadal (GON), and Interscapular brown adipose tissue (IBAT) depots were greater in the obese than lean phenotype, with the greatest magnitude of increase in the DOR subcutaneous depot. Adipocyte number was modestly greater in DOR subcutaneous depot, while adipocyte lipid content was greater in the RP and GON depots of obese but not lean rats. The IBAT mass and proportion of IBAT:body weight of obese >> lean. These results are consistent with the differential onset of adipose tissue depot growth initially occurs via hyperplasia in the dorsal subcutaneous depot and via hypertrophy in the RP and GON abdominal depots, while lean tissue development was of similar magnitude in both phenotypes at this age.
Acceptability and energy protein content of sago cookies with mackerel substitution as an additional food for the malnourished toddlers
Authors: Mayasari Analia , Lusviana Widiany Fery , Astriana Kuntari
Published: February 2024

Background: Providing additional food in the form of cookies is one of the efforts to reduce the problem of malnutrition in toddlers. Sago is one of Indonesia's local foods as a raw material for cookies, which is containing high carbohydrates but low in protein. It is necessary to substitute sago with mackerel, which is containing high protein and linolenic acid. This study aims to determine the effect of mackerel flour subtitution on the acceptability and energy protein content of sago cookies. Methods: This was an experimental study with a completely randomized design. There were four variations of mackerel flour substitution, namely 0% (A) as control, 5% (B), 10% (C), 15% (D). The substitution of mackerel flour as independent variable, while the dependent variables were an acceptability, energy content, protein content. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA. Results: Statistical test to determine the difference in sago cookies showed p-value = 0,860 for the acceptability, p-value = 0,001 for the energy content, p-value = 0,000 for the protein content. Conclusion: The substitution of mackerel flour has a significant effect on the energy and protein content, but it has no effect on the acceptability of sago cookies.
Successful eradication of rituximab-refractory EBV-related post- transplant lymphoproliferative disorder after second haplo-identical allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for very severe aplastic anemia – a case report
Authors: Tan Tran-Der
Published: February 2024

EBV-related post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a potentially fatal disorder arising after solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). The principle of management includes reduction of immune suppression, rituximab, and chemotherapy. We presented a female patient of very severe aplastic anemia (VSAA) complicated with initial graft dysfunction and then graft failure 2 months after haplo-identical allogeneic HSCT, with no response to salvage cyclosporine plus eltrombopag. EBV-related PTLD occurred 6 months after first haplo-transplant as shown by high EBV PCR. The patient initially responded to 6 shots of weekly rituximab, and then progression to ultrahigh level of EBV DNAemia was observed with the presence of intra-hepatic PTLD that was refractory to rituximab. This patient subsequently underwent second haplo-identical allogeneic transplant from the same donor with megadose of stem cell number plus alkylating agent containing RIC regimen. The results were successful hematopoietic engraftment on day +15, clearance of EBV DNAemia in one month, and thereafter eradication of intra-hepatic EBV-PTLD. In conclusion, EBV-related PTLD refractory to rituximab alone is still sensitive to rituximab plus chemotherapy preparative regimen during subsequent allogeneic HSCT, and it is still feasible to perform allo-transplant for transplant-eligible patients despite the presence of rituximab-refractory EBV DNAemia and PTLD.
A Critical Review of Factors and Challenges Influencing Non-Medical Prescribers in Primary and Urgent Treatment Care Facilities in England
Authors:   Advanced Clinical Practitioner, Kingswood Medical Centre, Basildon-Essex, UK, Thampi Mithun , Mathew Biju ,   Faculty of Health Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
Published: February 2024

Background: Non-medical prescribing in England has empowered allied health professionals such as nurses, paramedics, and pharmacists working in acute and primary care settings to prescribe within their competency area in suitable work settings. The opportunities for non-medical staff to prescribe in respective clinical areas of expertise have increased substantially and continue to do so. Prescribing is now an integral part of advanced clinical practice, which is not limited to just nurses but has expanded to other allied health professionals. Purpose: To analyse the factors and challenges influencing prescribing for non-medical prescribers, during consultations with patients in primary and urgent treatment centre facilities. Methods: This study employed a critical systematic review of relevant articles chosen from electronic databases including CINAHL, Medline, Cochrane library, and Scopus. Keywords were used to formulate a search pattern using Boolean operators and suitable qualitative studies relevant to the inclusion criteria were selected. Results: Thematic analysis of the articles concluded that there were a lot of sub-themes including a lack of protocols to support decision-making, peer support, and difficult patients which were interdependent posing as a potential barrier or acting as a facilitator in certain consultations Conclusion: The findings have provided adequate reassurance that non-medical prescribers were aware of the facilitators and barriers to non-medical prescribing. Organizational support and continued professional development are key components of the barriers and enablers for non- medical prescribers working in urgent and primary care settings.
Necessity for Sports Vision Training in Institutions of Higher Learning: A Concise Evaluation
Authors:   Chitkara School of Health Sciences, Chitkara University, Punjab, India, Gupta Aayushi , Thakur Renu ,   Chitkara School of Health Sciences, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
Published: February 2024

Background: One of the most important senses in the human body is vision, which is used in many daily activities. Sports vision training is a rapidly expanding industry in the field of visual-skill development. Sports vision training had previously only been used on athletes to enhance their visual abilities and athletic performance. Still, given the pandemic’s effects and the rise in ocular ailments among college students, there is an urgent need to address their visual issues. Purpose: To explore the need of sport vision training in higher education institutes. Methods: This article examines the value of sports vision training, its necessity, and how it can be incorporated to meet the increased visual needs of college students. 170 articles were identified in this study, of which 38 were included. The search techniques included “Citation Searching” and “Using Keyword.” Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar and PubMed were used as the search engines. Both AND and OR were used as Boolean operators. Conclusions: This review also sheds a broad light on the visual problems among university students and why there is a high need to tackle them. This research concluded that to overcome the visual problems among university students, sports vision training should be opted for in higher education institutes.
Evaluation of Visual Function with Different Illumination for Diabetic Retinopathy Patients Post Ocular Management
Authors:   Lotus College of Optometry, Chande Prema , Thakur Renu ,   Chitkara School of Health Sciences, Chitkara University, Punjab, India, Prajapati Lakshmi ,   Chitkara School of Health Sciences, Chitkara University, Punjab, India, Saifi Aleena ,   Chitkara School of Health Sciences, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
Published: February 2024

Background: India, the country with the most diabetics in the world with over 62 million diabetics. As increase in diabetes which is directly proportional to increase number of diabetic retinopathies in future Aim: To evaluate the visual performance of diabetic retinopathy patients after ocular treatment with various LED lights Methodology: This experimental investigation comprised 35 diabetic retinopathy patients treated with laser treatment or Anti-VEGF medication. On the basis of MN Read guidelines, participants with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between 1.3 Log MAR and -0.5 Log MAR were included in the research. The comprehensive optometric assessment comprised a detailed medical history and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) for distance and near. The patient’s reading performance was next evaluated with MN Read acuity in three light circumstances, i.e., normal room illumination, an overhead projection of white LED and yellow LED, and constant 400 lux intensity. Results: The mean age of the participants was 58.6 ± 6.44 years. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA for comparison of reading and functional performance under normal room illumination, white LED and yellow LED in diabetic retinopathy patients’ post-treatment. The scores derived from this analysis showed that there is no significant difference between reading performance, functional performance, and different illumination (p=0.05). Conclusion: Present study conclude that lighting had no influence on reading performance (Critical print size, reading speed, and reading acuity) and functional performance (Contrast sensitivity and colour vision) in diabetic retinopathy patients after therapy. Nevertheless, present study data indicate that white lighting increased reading speed and yellow illumination enhanced colour vision in diabetic retinopathy patients after therapy.
A Recent Trend on Functional and Therapeutic Role of Carob Beans In Food Products
Authors:   Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201306, India, Naaz Shadma , Khansili Nishtha ,   Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201306, India, Sharma Shweta ,   Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Jalandhar, 144401, India
Published: February 2024

Background: Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a nutritious and medicinal evergreen crop of the Leguminosae family, cultivated in Mediterranean regions of West Asia and North Africa. Although its sustaining worth has been recognized for prosperity, its therapeutic characteristics have only recently been investigated, regardless of that some of those facts have been employed in ancestral remedies for generations. Purpose: To study the different functional and therapeutic role of carob beans and its utilization in the food products. Conclusions: Carob products are high in fibre, carbohydrates, and beneficial components such as polyphenols and D-Pinitol. Because of their anti-hyperglycaemic, antioxidant, and an-ti- inflammatory properties, bioactive chemicals found in carob fruit and its derivatives help treat a variety of health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, and gastrointestinal disorders. The current review focuses on functional properties of carob beans and its potential in generating a wide range of health-beneficial food and formulations.
A Comparative Study on Effectiveness of Therapeutic Ultrasound And Kinesio Tape In Treatment of Tennis Elbow
Authors:   University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, Punjab, India, Bansal Harsh , Arora Lalit ,   University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, Punjab, India, Arora Reena ,   University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, Punjab, India
Published: February 2024

Background: Tennis elbow is a painful condition of the elbow caused by overuse. It effects the tendons near the origin of the wrist extensor muscles, which results in the functional loss in the affected limb. This leads to pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Methods: 20 males and females patients with age from 20-50 years were included in this study and were divided into two groups. Group A received ultrasound and exercises and Group B received Kinesio tape and exercises. The wrist joint strength was measured using a dynamometer, with pressure measured in kilograms, and pain severity measured using a VAS scale. Duration of the study was 4 weeks. Patients were assessed at 0th day and at the end of 4th week. Result: Both Group A and Group B showed significant difference in wrist strength and VAS. However in the examination of pre- and post-tests, wrist strength in Group A exhibited a more significant difference than Group B. VAS also revealed a significant high dif-ference in Group A as compared to Group B. Conclusion: This investigation came to conclusion that Group A displayed a significantly higher difference. Therefore, in the treat-ment of lateral epicondylitis, ultrasound is more beneficial than kinesio taping.
Hematological and biochemical indicators of lambs’ blood after the use of chemotherapeutic agents for spontaneous eimeriosis
Authors: Filipenko O. V. , Soroka N. M.
Published: February 2024

Eimeria infection is one of the protozoal diseases of animals caused by various species of Eimeria and causes reduced productivity and raised mortality in ruminants, especially in young ones. To study the effect of anti-emeriosis drugs on the morphological and biochemical parameters of lambs’ blood infected with Eimeria, 3 groups of Romanov breed animals, two months old, affected by the Eimeria pathogen were formed. The first group of animals was treated with a drug containing the active ingredient decoquinate; the second group of animals with a drug containing the active ingredient toltrazuril; the third group of lambs were given a combined drug containing 80 mg of norsulfazole, 70 mg of sulgin, 30 mg of trimethoprim, 45 mg of oxytetracycline hydrochloride and 25 mg of tylosin tartrate per 1 g); the fourth group of lambs was the control group, the animals were free from the Eimeria pathogen and were kept separately. The blood of the animals was analysed on days 7 and 14 of treatment. In the blood of the experimental lambs, an increase in the number of red blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes was noted. There was also a decrease in the total number of leukocytes, eosinophils, young and segmented neutrophils. According to the results of the treatment, there was an increase in the content of total, albumin, hemoglobin and glucose, as well as the activity of gamma-glutamate transferase. At the same time, there was a decrease in the content of globulins and the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase compared to the biochemical parameters of healthy lamb blood serum of the control group. According to treatment results, the restoration of sick lambs’ blood parameters to those of healthy animals was noted; however, the most stable effect was using the combined drug.
Comparative characteristics of polymorphisms of melanocortin 4 and ryanodine 1 receptor genes of Myrhorod pigs before and after the African swine fever outbreak
Authors: Tsereniuk О. М. , Vashchenko P. А. , Khokhlov A. M. , Tsybenko V. H. , Shostia G. M. , Saenko A. M. , Peka M. Y. , Zhukorskyi О. М.
Published: February 2024

One of the global problems that are anthropogenic in nature is the sharp decline in biodiversity, a special case of which is the reduction in the number of species of wild animals and the number of breeds of farm animals. The Myrhorod pig breed, due to its genetic and biological characteristics, is of great importance for the process of preserving the biodiversity of agricultural animals. The study’s object was Myrhorod breed pigs, the study focused on the variations in the allele frequency of the RYR1 / SNP g.1843 C>T and MC4R / SNP c.1426 G>A genes that occurred in the Myrhorod breed as it recovered from the African swine fever epidemic. The age at which one pig reaches 100 kg (days); the average daily weight gain from 90 days to slaughter (g); the thickness of the backfat (mm); the length of the carcass (cm); the cross-sectional area of the longest back muscle at the level of the 6th and 7th thoracic vertebrae (cm2); the slaughter output (%); and the yield of meat, fat, and bones from the carcass (%) are other quantitative changes in indicators of fattening and meat productivity. Significant alterations in the SNP marker MC4R polymorphism were observed during the restoration of the Myrhorod pig breed after the African swine fever epidemic. The frequency of the A allele dropped by 2.79 times to just 26.9% from 75.0%, which was 3.17 times higher than the frequency of the G allele until 2019. These alterations resulted from the forced crossing of the Myrhorod breed with the Pietrain breed, which has a high frequency of the G gene (83.0%), during the early phase of the breed's restoration in order to prevent close inbreeding. It is suggested that animals with the AA genotype should be preferred during further restoration in order to restore the Myrhorod breed to its original state. If crossbreeding becomes necessary again (to prevent excessive inbreeding), only breeds related to the Myrhorod (Berkshire, Poltava meat, Large White) should be used. The allele frequency in 2023 did not differ substantially from 2015 or 2019, based on the RYR1 DNA marker. The recessive T gene at the RYR1 g.1843 C>T locus was absent in 2023, confirming the stress resistance of the Myrhorod breed. When compared to the same indicator in the population of 2019, the average daily gain in the live weight of pigs belonging to the restored Myrhorod breed in 2023 was higher. Although this is a good development in terms of making profits by producing this breed of pig, these notable variations might point to important shifts in the polymorphism of genetic markers linked to growth rate. To determine the extent to which restoration has altered DNA markers linked to this productive attribute, more research is required to examine the frequency of alleles of genes linked to growth intensity.
Mechanotransduction signaling pathways of erythrocytes associated with restructuring of cell metabolism
Authors: Dotsenko О. І.
Published: February 2024

Erythrocytes exhibit the properties of "sensor" of mechanical tension, hypoxia and "regulator" of vascular tone. In the in vivo bloodstream, these cells are constantly exposed to flow during which they experience varying levels of shear stress and strain. In this regard, these cells have well-established signaling mechanisms, with the participation of which a chemical response to a stress factor is formed. Vibration is a factor that, depending on its own physical characteristics, combines mechanical influence with an oxidative state or hypoxia. Thus, it was of interest to investigate how erythrocytes use certain signaling pathways to maintain metabolic homeostasis under the influence of low-frequency vibration. The paper examines the effect of vibration (frequency range 8–32 Hz, amplitudes 0.50 ± 0.04 and 0.90 ± 0.08 mm) on the energy state of human erythrocytes in the absence of glucose. In this connection, the changes of intracellular ATP, 2,3-BPG and inorganic phosphate (Pi) in human erythrocytes during 3-hour vibration exposure were investigated. The activity of Na+,K+-ATPase was investigated as an indicator reflecting cellular needs for ATP. Cytosolic 5’-nucleotidase (cN-1A) and AMP-deaminase (AMPDA) activities were investigated as indicators of the level of catabolism of purine nucleotides. To assess the involvement of adenosine in the processes of reverse signaling through the ADORA2B – AMPK BPGM axis, the activity of ectonucleotidase (eN) was investigated. Based on the obtained experimental data, an analysis of the signal mechanisms involved in the mechanotransduction of the vibration effect was carried out. It is shown that under certain conditions of vibration exposure (frequency interval 20–32 Hz, A = 0.50 ± 0.04 mm and 12–32 Hz, A = 0.90 ± 0.08 mm) erythrocytes use signaling and metabolic pathways aimed at increasing the content of ATP, 2,3-BPG and restoration of the energy charge of cells. One of these pathways is controlled by AMP-kinase (AMPK), which in turn is a participant in the signaling cascade that begins with adenosine receptors ADORA2B. AMPK turns off consumption pathways and turns on alternative pathways for ATP regeneration and activation of 2,3-BPG formation mechanisms. These ways are aimed at overcoming the state of hypoxia. Experimental data on the participation of AMP catabolism enzymes in ATP recovery processes were analyzed.
Zoonotic and commensal bacteria from pigs with acquired antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Chechet O. N. , Gorbatyuk O. I. , Rublenko І. О. , Kuryata N. V. , Вuchkovska G. A. , Musiets I. V. , Shchur N. V. , Shalimova L. O. , Ordynska D. О. , Balanchuk L. V. , Togachynska L. V.
Published: February 2024

The growing prevalence of foodborne zoonotic infections increases the risk of emergence of microorganisms with acquired resistance to antimicrobial drugs. Such microorganisms are capable of horizontal transmission of R-plasmids of antibiotic resistance to other types of bacteria. The results of our monitoring in 2021, in accordance with the State Strategy of Ukraine to curb the development of antimicrobial resistance and reduce the risks of the formation and spread of antimicrobial-resistant strains of microorganisms, showed high resistance of enterobacteria, enterococci and Campylobacter isolated from pigs to antibiotics of various groups. Among the isolated cultures of Esherichia coli, the ability of some strains to produce extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) was found. Testing of the experimental isolates for antibiotic resistance and screening for possible production of acquired resistance enzymes was carried out by the disc diffusion method with antibiotic disks of different groups. Out of 542 samples of appendix from pigs from farms in different regions of Ukraine, 138 isolates were isolated and identified. Among them: Esherichia coli – 68 strains; Enterococcus faecalis – 57; Enterococcus faecium – 9; Salmonella spp. – 2 and Campylobacter spp. – 2. Antibiotic resistance testing showed that 10 (7.3% of the isolates) of different bacterial species remained susceptibile to all antibiotics used. The remaining 128 test isolates (93.5% of the isolates) showed antibiotic resistance. The largest number of antibiotic-resistant commensal and zoonotic bacteria was detected in pig farms of Donetsk, Kyiv, Dnipro, Kirovohrad and Chernihiv regions. Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp. were most often isolated from pigs; in smaller quantities Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter spp. All strains of Salmonella spp. faecium showed resistance to 1 to 3 antibiotics of different groups. Among the antibiotic-resistant E. faecalis, 1 strain with resistance to vancomycin was detected. Polyantibiotic resistance was inherent in E. coli strains. Among the polyantibiotic-resistant E. coli strains, 4 strains were found and confirmed to have acquired resistance due to the production of ESBL.