bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOFTWARE APPLICATION FOR A SYSTEM WITH A PROGRAMMABLE LOGIC CONTROLLER
Authors: Romančík Jaroslav , Kelemen Michal
Published: January 2022

The article deals with the solution of an application for a building security system, which is solved using a programmable logic controller. A ladder program design for this application is created, and an application for the HMI touch screen is also designed. The application is tested on a simulation model in a software development environment. A training station system was used for practical prototype tests, which includes a programmable logic controller, HMI touch screen, profinet switch, power supply and other accessories for testing purposes.
Sexismo Ambivalente como Correlato y Predictor de la Agresión Psicológica
Authors: Reyes-Solano Fernanda Eugenia , Castaños-Cervantes Susana
Published: January 2022

Introducción. El sexismo ambivalente perpetúa la discriminación laboral con base en el género, la objetificación sexual y subyugación de la mujer, y restringe las oportunidades económicas, laborales y políticas de crecimiento y desarrollo para la población femenina. Es un factor de riesgo para la agresión psicológica. No obstante, son pocos los estudios que han abordado dichas variables en población mexicana. Objetivo. El objetivo de este estudio fue desarrollar y probar un modelo de trayectorias de la agresión psicológica teniendo como predictores al sexismo hostil y benevolente. Materiales y métodos. Se seleccionaron de manera no probabilística a 163 mujeres de la Ciudad de México y zona conurbada. Se aplicaron los instrumentos de sexismo ambivalente y de relación con compañeros, ambos adaptados a la población mexicana. Se llevaron a cabo análisis de trayectorias y multivariados de varianza. Resultados. Los resultados principales mostraron que el sexismo hostil es un predictor significativo de la agresión psicológica directa. También, se observó que la religión católica se asoció con un nivel de sexismo benevolente mayor, mientras que un nivel socioeconómico bajo con un índice de sexismo hostil más alto. Conclusiones. Los hallazgos obtenidos permiten identificar algunos factores de riesgo asociados al sexismo y a la agresión psicológica. La utilidad clínica del estudio estriba en desarrollar estrategias de acción tomando en cuenta dichos factores para la disminución del sexismo ambivalente y con ello de la agresión psicológica, particularmente en el contexto de ciudades Latinoamericanas.
Current trends in minimally invasive valve-sparing aortic root replacement -- best available evidence
Authors: Sef Davorin , Bahrami Toufan , Raja Shahzad , Klokocovnik Tomislav
Published: January 2022

Background: Valve-sparing aortic root replacement such as the
re-implantation (David) procedure is becoming increasingly popular.
Despite the fact that the procedure is technically more complex,
long-term studies demonstrated that excellent clinical outcomes in
selected patients with durable repair are achievable. Benefits of
minimal access cardiac surgery have stimulated enthusiasm in the use of
this approach for valve-sparing aortic root replacement.
Methods: We have reviewed available literature on the topic of
valve-sparing aortic root replacement (David procedure) via minimally
invasive approach through upper hemisternotomy in an attempt to assess
current trends and to recognize potential advantages of this technique.
Patient selection and preoperative work-up play important role in
performing minimally invasive David procedure safely. Surgical technique
is similar to the standard David procedure, with several exceptions, and
is performed via upper hemisternotomy. Results and Conclusion:
Evidence from non-randomized observational and comparative studies
demonstrated excellent clinical outcomes of minimally invasive David
procedure in selected patients with comparable perioperative mortality
to the conventional technique. To date, elective David procedure with a
minimal access technique has been performed in low- and
intermediate-risk patients. We believe that minimally invasive David
procedure could be particularly useful in young patients (Marfan
syndrome, bicuspid AV) as it allows faster recovery with improved
cosmesis. A decision to perform minimally invasive David procedure
should be individualized to each patient and based on the experience of
the team. Further large prospective randomized studies with long-term
follow-up are still needed to confirm durability of minimal access
technique.
Biomecânica e traumatologia no râguebi
Authors:   Centro de Medicina de Reabilitação da Região Centro – Rovisco Pais, Silva João Diogo , Cruz-Ferreira António ,   Federação Portuguesa de Râguebi, UCSP Mealhada, Laíns Jorge ,   Centro de Medicina de Reabilitação da Região Centro – Rovisco Pais, Lino-Moura Diogo ,   Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Coimbra, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra
Published: January 2022

Rugby is one of the team sports with the highest incidence rate of injuries per exposure time. These mainly occur in specific sport movements such as the tackle, ruck, or maul. Therefore, it is important to understand the sports’ specificities and biomechanics and link them with its risk and injury type. The most common reported injuries are musculotendinous and ligament ruptures of the lower limbs, however, we highlight the important incidence of severe head and neck injuries, like cerebral concussion and cervical spine fractures. It is essential to gather data that enable us to characterize the risk and specify of each movement performed by the athlete, to make more effective programs on injury-prevention and rehabilitation of injured athletes, always focusing on their full recovery and reinjure risk reduction.
Investigation of the process of fe (III) adsorption by methods of multidimensional cluster analysis
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Sabadash V. V. , Gumnitsky Ya. M. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: January 2022

The results of the study of the adsorption capacity of a number of sorbents of natural and synthetic origin with respect to iron ions have been clustered. The sorption capacity of the following sorbents was studied: natural zeolite of the Sokyrnytsia deposit, synthetic sorbent based on the ash of Doborotvir heat power plant, Al2O3, SiO2, as well as some types of soils: sandy soil, black soil and clay. Equations describing the regularities of adsorption processes depending on the type of sorbent are obtained. According to the obtained dendrograms of the adsorption process, two main clusters of sorbents were identified. The statistical parameters of the process and the significance of the obtained results are calculated. The coefficient of determination of experimental data was 0.87– 0.99, the standard deviation was 0.017–0.026.
Peculiarities of metallization of polyvinyl chloride granules
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Kucherenko А. , Nikitchuk О. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Kuznetsova M. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Moravskyi V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: January 2022

The results of experimental studies of copper plating of polyvinyl chloride granules in a chemical precipitation solution are presented. The influence of the surface area of polyvinyl chloride granules on the kinetic regularities of copper reduction and the copper content on metallized granules has been studied. It is established that the surface area of polyvinyl chloride granules has a significant effect on the rate of reduction of copper ions and does not affect the amount of reduced copper. The thickness of the layer of the obtained copper shell on polyvinyl chloride granules of different sizes depending on the metal content is calculated.
Peculiarities of obtaining and properties of combined hydrogel membranes based on polycoproamide and polyvinylpyrrolidone copolymers
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Baran N. M. , Grytsenko O. M. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Melnyk Yu.Ya. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Yaculchak G.V . ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: January 2022

The research results of surface adsorption magnitude and tensile strength of combined polyamide-hydrogel membranes, depending on the content of the hydrogel lining membrane are presented in the article. It was found that the molecular weight variation of PVP, both in the structure of copolymer and in modifying blend, as well as the time of staying hydrogel film in the modifying solution allow to regulate the properties of combined membranes directly, in particular, its strength and permeability.
Rancang Bangun Alat Pengasapan Ikan dengan Metode Pengasapan Panas (Hot Smoking) dan Pengasapan Dingin (Cold Smoking)
Authors: Mangera Yosefina , Widanarti Indah , Br Karo Emai Rizkita
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to produce a fish smoking device for hot smoking and cold smoking methods. This study used 3 types of fish, namely paha fish (Leptobrama sp.), stingray (Dasyatis sp.), and tilapia fish (Oreochromis mossambicus), and the fuel used as fuel for smoking is coconut shell. The data measured included smoking room temperature data, fish weight before and after smoking. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively. The results showed that smoking fish using hot smoking and cold smoking methods with specifications, length 50 cm, width 50 cm, overall height 83 cm. This tool consists of three main components, namely, a fumigation chamber which is combined with a hot smoking biomass combustion chamber, a cold smoking biomass combustion chamber and a connecting pipe. The performance test of the tool was carried out by calculating the weight loss of fish during hot smoking and cold smoking. The smoking time used for hot smoking is 2 hours (temperature 50 – 75℃) and cold smoking 4 hours (30 – 45 ℃). The results showed that the highest percentage of weight loss during hot smoking occurred in stingrays on the second shelf, which was 29.25%, while the highest percentage of weight loss during cold smoking occurred in stingrays on the first shelf, which was 23.79%. The weight loss of fish in both hot and cold smoking is strongly influenced by the smoking time, the distance between the smoking rack and the heat source and the type of fish. Keywords : cold, heat, shrinkage, smoking, weight
The first record of Promyialges italicus Faradonbeh et al. 2019 (Acariformes: Epidermoptidae) in European Russia
Authors: Matyukhin Alexandr V. , Yatsuk Aleksandra A.
Published: January 2022

The skin mite Promyialges italicus Faradonbeh et al. 2019 (Acariformes: Epidermoptidae) was found on wings of a louse fly, Pseudolynchia canariensis (Macquart, 1840) (Diptera: Hippoboscidae,) from the Domestic Pigeon, Columba livia L., 1758 (Aves: Columbiformes). This is the first record of P. italicus in Russia.
Changes in diversity of protected scree and herb-rich beech forest ecosystems over 55 years
Authors: Hájek Vojtěch , Vacek Zdeněk , Vacek Stanislav , Bílek Lukáš , Prausová Romana , Linda Rostislav , Bulušek Daniel , Králíček Ivo
Published: January 2022

Species composition along with spatial and age structure are the main attributes of forest ecosystems. The diversity of scree forests and herb-rich beech forests was analyzed in the Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area, the Czech Republic. The paper objective was to evaluate forest structure and dynamics of species diversity of tree layer, natural regeneration and herb layer in the period 1961–2016. Scree forests were structurally, and species very rich forest stands, in herb-rich beech forests the stands were of medium richness. Studied stands managed by small-scale methods, in the past especially by coppicing and later by shelterwood and selection felling, have maintained high species biodiversity during the 55 years of observation. Substantially higher biodiversity was found out in scree forests compared to herb-rich beech forests. Based on the comparison of predominantly coppiced forest stand and stand of generative origin at sites of scree forests, coppice have maintained higher biodiversity than high forests. Species richness increased during the observation period, but species evenness had mostly decreasing tendency. Species heterogeneity in coppiced scree forests increased in tree layer and natural regeneration, but it decreased in herb layer; inverse dynamics was observed in the high forests. Changes in biodiversity dynamics were remarkable for coppice, while high forests showed relatively high level of stability. During study period herb population of light-demanding species and species characteristic for broadleaved forests decreased, while an increase in shade tolerant, moisture-demanding and nutrient-demanding species, especially nitrophilous species was confirmed. Moreover, occurrence of thermophilic plants increased, respectively cold-tolerant plant population decreased in relation to climate change.
A high proportion of norway spruce in mixed stands increases probability of stand failure
Authors: Roessiger Joerg , Kulla Ladislav , Sedliak Maroš
Published: January 2022

The decline of pure spruce forests in the Beskydy Mountains in the Czech Republic and Slovakia is mainly driven by bark beetle attacks and storm events. Salvage-harvest records based on timber volume on the forest-stand level document the extent of stand failure processed by salvage logging. On the basis of these records, the stand failure proportion was expressed as the proportion of timber volume processed by salvage harvest divided by the standing timber volume over a period of 10 years (sf). Two null hypotheses to be tested are that sf is not influenced by (H1) the size of trees expressed by mean stand age (age) or alternatively by mean stand diameter (dbh); and (H2) the volume proportion of spruce within the stand (spp). The dataset was evaluated as a total and separately for the three site types, each for spruce, beech, fir, larch, pine, and other broadleaved species. The dataset was analysed using a binary logistic regression. The sf increased with age, dbh, and the spp. Pure spruce stands with high age and high dbh on mountain sites are associated with the highest sf. However, a slight admixture of 25% tree species other than spruce was shown to stabilise the stands significantly. Species other than spruce in a minor admixture to spruce stands were destabilised by the breakdown of spruce stands. For a realistic financial evaluation of forest-stand management, managers should consider the risk of stand failure, and reduce the risk by increasing species admixture in the spruce forest stands.
EFL teachers’ online teaching in rural schools during the COVID-19 pandemic: Stories from Indonesia
Authors: Kusuma I Putu Indra
Published: January 2022

The implementation of online English instruction in remote areas during the COVID-19 pandemic, which mandates school closures, remains unknown, especially given these areas’ reputation for inadequate educational facilities. Additionally, the preparations, implementation, and challenges experienced by English as a Foreign Language (henceforth, EFL) teachers in rural areas remain unclear. This study therefore aimed at exploring the experiences of EFL teachers in rural areas on (1) their readiness for conducting online teaching, (2) their implementation of online teaching, and (3) the challenges during the implementation of online teaching due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The research was conducted in Indonesia with eight English teachers in rural schools. This study was a qualitative study that employed a phenomenological study approach and used semi-structured interviews to collect the data. The findings indicate that EFL teachers, during this pandemic time, were able to conduct fully online English teaching because they possessed sufficient knowledge of English instruction using technology. Additionally, these teachers might leverage various technologies and adapt those tools to transform their usual face-to-face English instruction into online instruction. Nonetheless, these teachers in rural schools frequently encountered challenges with internet connectivity, student-owned technology devices, student enthusiasm, and student netiquette when enrolling in online English teaching. Additionally, this article discusses some practical considerations for implementing online English teaching during a pandemic.
L2 attitude and motivation of secondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate ESL learners in India
Authors: Doley Sarat Kumar
Published: January 2022

Second language (L2) attitude and motivation-related studies focusing on differences caused by age have mostly highlighted the temporal dimension of L2 attitude and motivation. Age-related L2 motivation studies have also been gainfully employed at comparisons between L2 learners of different age groups recruited from different L2 learning environments. Such studies have not, however, attempted an analysis of the L2 attitudinal and motivational differences that may exist among L2 learners within a closer age range, e.g., 18 to 25 years. This article presents the findings of an L2 attitude and motivation survey, using a modified version of Dӧrnyei et al. (2006) and Ryan (2005), conducted among secondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate English as a second language (ESL) learners (N210) in India. It primarily presents a comparative analysis of the L2 attitudinal and motivational constructs of integrativeness, instrumentality, cultural interest, linguistic self-confidence, and L2 anxiety attested in the sample. Additionally, it offers a description of the correlation between the five L2 attitudinal and motivational constructs concerning the different ESL groups. As the ESL learners across the academic levels demonstrated ESL motivation more on the side of instrumentality, they also reported linguistic self-confidence more in the familiar environment of an L2 classroom than outside of it. Since better motivational strategies enhance learner dedication to the learning of a certain L2, an elaborated understanding of the specific differences in L2 attitude and motivation within this important age range should help design more useful and effective L2 pedagogical methods.
Culture teaching in EFL classes: Teachers’ beliefs, attitudes, and classroom practices
Authors: Rohmani Lucky Amatur , Andriyanti Erna
Published: January 2022

It is inevitably believed that culture teaching is the pivotal feeling of integrating culture into the teaching of a language, including in the EFL setting. This study aims to explore the English teachers’ beliefs, attitudes, and the reflection of their beliefs and attitudes on the teaching syllabi. The sequential explanatory mix-methods design was applied in junior high schools in Ngawi. The data were obtained from 144 English teachers’ answers to a questionnaire and interviews with six teachers. Then, the data were analysed by using descriptive statistics, the independent sample T-test, and the Mann-Whitney test. The results indicated that the majority of junior high school English teachers believed in the importance of incorporating culture into their teaching of the language taught and students’ learning process. Moreover, both state and private junior high school English teachers showed similar beliefs and attitudes related to culture teaching. When they taught English, the culture associated with that language had also been taught so that the misconception of learning the language can be minimized. The result of teachers’ practices strongly indicates that the English teachers in Ngawi had implemented the teaching of culture and inserted various cultural elements in the process of their teaching and learning in the EFL classes.
Trends and innovations in reporting on the sustainable development of economic entities
Authors: ZENKINA Irina V.
Published: January 2022

Subject. This article discusses the development priorities and major innovations in the sustainability reporting standards of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).
Objectives. The article aims to reveal the essence of the most important changes made to the sustainability reporting standards in connection with their improvement, and assess the impact of innovations on the informative and analytical value of sustainability reporting.
Methods. The study relies upon analysis and synthesis, comparison, generalization, and abstraction.
Results. The article shows trends in the preparation of sustainability reporting, discloses the background for revising and expanding the list of sustainability reporting standards, and describes the essence of innovations introduced into the GRI Standards.
Conclusions and Relevance. The main innovations in the sustainability reporting standards are related to the revision of the GRI Universal Standards, updating the Topic Standards, and the development of Sector Standards. The application of updated and expanded standards for sustainability reporting will help improve the corporate practice of disclosing information on the economic, social and environmental performance of organizations. The results obtained can contribute to the further promotion of sustainability reporting, improving the practice of its preparation, and developing a methodology for comprehensive analysis of economic entities' sustainable growth.
KAJIAN TENTANG PERBAIKAN KUALITAS CITRA DALAM AIR MENGGUNAKAN METODE DARK CHANNEL PRIOR
Authors: Putra Edi , Lina Lina
Published: January 2022

Digital image processing is a branch of engineering informatics. image processing is an attempt to change your photo or image into another by using certain techniques. The process of changing the image data into digital data by using a computer known as digital image processing. The purpose of this application is to improve the image quality of the water using test images and imagery training, to train image by image is in the water, while the test images by using the image processing Dark Channel Prior. The image that was in the sea water murky and foggy be processed and then do a comparison with the image that is not in the water. The design is made in the form of software applications to improve the quality of the image using the Dark Channel Prior. In this study, created by using Visual Basic 2013.
Editorial
Authors: Baldiris Navarro Silvia
Published: January 2022

Los años 2020 y 2021 han sido años de retos interesantes para la humanidad debido a la pandemia del COVID-19. Por esta razón nuestro saludo principal en esta primera edición del año 2021 es a todos aquellos autores y miembros del comité científico y editorial que han permitido que la revista científica Teknos siga siendo un espacio para la divulgación de trabajos de calidad científica desarrollados por investigadores colombianos y del exterior.
Pharmacy, the continuously expanding field of science
Authors:   Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary, Perjési Pál
Published: January 2022

Originating from the traditional herbal formulations, nowadays, Pharmacy covers all the disciplines focusing on the behavior of complex pharmaceutical forms, drug-releasing systems, and active compounds in the human body. Masters of pharmaceutical sciences must know the basics of pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmaceutical technology, biotechnology, biology, physiology, pharmacology, and toxicology.
A case of fibromuscular dysplasia related intracerebral hemorrhage without angiographically cerebral abnormal vessels
Authors: Fujiwara Gaku , Maruyama Daisuke , Okabe Hidetosho , Komaru Yujiro , Murakami Mamoru , Katsura Kanade , Murakami Nobukuni , Hashimoto Naoya
Published: January 2022

Background:

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) can cause cerebral aneurysms and dissection, which can lead to stroke. Angiographic findings are important in the diagnosis. We report a case of FMD in which the cause of hemorrhage could not be determined by angiography.

Case Description:

A 73-year-old woman suffered from intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) associated with FMD without abnormal angiography cerebral vessels. She presented with headache and nausea. Subsequent head-computed tomography-revealed ICH in the left frontal lobe, and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging revealed a gadolinium-enhancing lesion in the perihematoma area and in the genu of the corpus callosum. Although cerebral angiography revealed a string of beads appearance in the bilateral extracranial internal carotid arteries, no abnormality explaining the hemorrhage was identified. The hematoma was removed and the pathological diagnosis was FMD. In the pathological specimen, various patterns of vulnerable vessels, such as aneurysmal dilatation and obstruction, were observed, which could easily collapse and result in hemorrhage. In the case of ICH of unknown origin, microscopic vessel disruption due to FMD should also be considered.

Conclusion:

FMD can cause ICH in microscopic vascular lesions that are undetectable on angiography.
Comparision of myopia correction outcomes after visx customvue wavefront-guided LASIK and conventional LASIK
Authors:   «Clinicа ArtOptica», Chelyabinsk, Kukoleva L.V. , Olevskaya E.A. ,   «Clinicа ArtOptica», Chelyabinsk, Guseva A.V. ,   «Clinicа ArtOptica», Chelyabinsk, Kostin O.A. ,   IRTC «Eye Microsurgery» Ekaterinburg Center, Ekaterinburg, Rebrikov S.V. ,   IRTC «Eye Microsurgery» Ekaterinburg Center, Ekaterinburg, Ovchinnikov A.I. ,   IRTC «Eye Microsurgery» Ekaterinburg Center, Ekaterinburg, Tonkikh N.A. ,   «Clinicа ArtOptica», Chelyabinsk
Published: January 2022

Purpose. To compare visual and clinical outcomes of wavefront-guided VISX CustomVue (VISX, Santa Clara, CA) LASIK and conventional LASIK. Methods. This study retrospectively evaluated 130 eyes of 65 patients, including 40 eyes of 20 patients in the CustomVue group and 90 eyes of 45 patients in conventional LASIK group. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity, and refractive error were measured. Higher-order aberration (HOA) were measured by WaveScan system using a Hartmann-Shack sensor as their root mean square values (RMS HO), and individual Zernike coefficients of 3rd to 4th order before and 1 year after the surgery and compared using Mann-Whitney test or Student's t-test. Results. There was no significant difference in spherical equivalent between the groups. CV eyes showed superiority in number of eyes seeing 20/20 or better. RMS HO was less in CV group than that induced by conventional LASIK (0.37 ± 0.15 µm and 0.62 ± 0.26 µm, respectively). Preoperative mean RMS HO more than 0.3 µm was associated with a decrease in postoperative HOA in CV group. CV system induced significantly less spherical aberration (0.149 ± 0.157 µm and 0.364 ± 0.284 µm, respectively, р < 0,002). Conclusions. CustomVue seems to have better uncorrected visual acuity outcomes. It generally increases HOA, but statistically significant by less, compared with conventional LASIK. The most benefits have patients with RMS HO higher than 03 µm. Key words: CustomVue, conventional LASIK, wavefront-guided LASIK.
Modern use of electrophysiological methods in diagnostics of eye diseases and assessment of medications toxic effects (a brief literary review)
Authors:   IRTC Eye Microsurgery Ekaterinburg Center, Ekaterinburg, Kazaykin V.N. , Ponomarev V.O. ,   IRTC Eye Microsurgery Ekaterinburg Center, Ekaterinburg, Lizunov A.V. ,   IRTC Eye Microsurgery Ekaterinburg Center, Ekaterinburg, Titarenko E.M. ,   IRTC Eye Microsurgery Ekaterinburg Center, Ekaterinburg
Published: January 2022

Electrophysiological study (EPS) is one of the most informative methods for diagnosing diseases of the retinal structures, remaining an important source of objective assessment of the functional state of the visual analyzer. During EPI, the electrical response of the retina to stimulation with a short stimulus of light or a change in the spatial organization of brightness (patterns) is recorded. Its essential advantage are topographic assessment of lesions and objectivity. The objectivity of EPS is in great demand in pharmacology and toxicology for quantitative assessment of possible side effects of drugs, in particular antibiotics used in ophthalmology. Toxicity testing of drugs requires the use of laboratory animal models as well as ex vivo extrapolation to a human model in determining the risk and safety of their use. Classical EPI does not provide detailed quantitative information about the state of the visual analyzer. This implies the need for optimization and algorithmizing of data assessment for ophthalmic pathology. Electrophysiological examination requires simpler and more adapted protocols for clinical practice, allowing strict differentiation of the approach to the smallest anatomical and functional changes based on open databases and modern adaptation based on artificial intelligence. Key words: electrophysiological study, electroretinography, visual evoked potentials, electrooculography, intravitreal injection, toxicology.
RESULTS OF THE IMPACT OF ANTIPROTEINASE HEMOSORBENT ON THE DYNAMICS OF THE MAIN MARKERS OF INFLAMMATION IN CHILDREN WITH SEVERE FORMS OF PERITONITIS
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Serhiyenka U. K.
Published: January 2022

Background. Generalized peritonitis refers to a severe form of abdominal infection, which is based on the body's reaction in the form of generalized inflammation to infection of a bacterial nature in combination with acute signs of organ dysfunction. The levels of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, presepsin and cytokine status in blood plasma play an important role in determining the severity of the patient's condition. Assessing the dynamics of these indicators, it is possible to judge the severity of the pathology and the adequacy of intensive care. The aim of the study was to study the effect of the antiproteinase hemosorbent "Hemo-proteazsorb" on the dynamics of the main markers of inflammation in the complex intensive care of children with generalized peritonitis. Material and methods. A prospective randomized study of 60 children with generalized peritonitis was conducted. Group I included 30 patients who underwent hemosorption through the sorbent "Hemo-proteazsorb". Group II included 30 patients who underwent traditional treatment. The examined groups were comparable by the nature of the pathology and severity of the condition. Results. After hemoperfusion, a significant decrease in the main markers of inflammation was found: C-reactive protein decreased from 83.7 (72.2; 131.3) to 12.9 (10.0; 22.0) (p=0.0003) mg/l, procalcitonin level normalized from 4.65 (2.1; 7.4) to 0.21 (0.07; 0.4) (p=0.00002) ng/ml, presepsin level decreased from 5.7 (2.5; 8.8) to 0.4 (0.3; 0.8) (p=0.25) ng/ml, the level of IL-6 decreased from 25.3 (6.0; 68.8) to 4.6 (0.9; 8.3) (p=0.000001) pg/ml. When compared in the second group, the studied indicators changed much more slowly. Conclusions. The data obtained as a result of the study indicate a decrease in the severity of the inflammatory process, a decrease in the risk of sepsis in the group of patients who underwent hemosorption, and thereby prove the effectiveness of this method.
ANALYSIS OF PLATELET AGGREGATION IN DONORS OF BLOOD COMPONENTS
Authors:   Mogilev Regional Blood Transfusion Station, Mogilev, Belarus, Starovoitov A. G. , Lipnitski A. L. ,   Mogilev Regional Clinical Hospital, Mogilev, Belarus,   Vitebsk State Order of Peoples’ Friendship Medical University, Vitebsk, Belarus, Marochkov А. V. ,   Mogilev Regional Clinical Hospital, Mogilev, Belarus,   Vitebsk State Order of Peoples’ Friendship Medical University, Vitebsk, Belarus
Published: January 2022

The functional state of platelets can be determined using the method of platelet aggregation. The aim of our study was to investigate platelet aggregation in donors of blood components and to identify the features of the reactions of these platelets with the most common inducers of aggregation. Material and methods. 31 donors of fresh frozen plasma and platelet concentrate were included in the study. The study of platelet aggregation was carried out by the turbidimetric method with AP2110 analyzer (SOLAR, Minsk, Republic of Belarus). Results. A total of 33 studies of platelet aggregation in donors were carried out before the collection of blood components. Normal platelet aggregation was found in 10 cases (30.3%), hypoaggregation in 15 cases (45.5%), and hyperaggregation in 8 studies. (24.2%). Thus, in 23 (69.7%) cases, platelet aggregation disorders were found in donors. Statistical analysis showed that the incidence of platelet aggregation disorders (hypo- or hyperaggregation) was high in donors who had undergone COVID-19 infection (5 - hypoaggregation, 4 - hyperaggregation). In donors with no history of this infection, the incidence of platelet aggregation disorders was statistically significantly lower - 63.6% (in 10 - hypoaggregation, in 4 - hyperaggregation), p=0.04. A history of previous COVID-19 infection in the donor is an independent predictor of platelet aggregation disorder (Chi-square=7.24, p=0.007). Conclusion. When preparing platelet mass, it is necessary to first monitor platelet aggregation, especially in donors with a previous COVID-19 infection, and take into account the results obtained to predict the therapeutic effect of using platelet concentrate in clinical practice. Keywords: platelet aggregation, platelets, blood component donor, platelet concentrate, novel coronavirus infection, COVID-19.
We Are Never Ever Getting (back to) Ideal Symmetry: Structure and Luminescence in a Ten-Coordinated Europium(III) Sulfate Crystal
Authors: Storm Thomsen Maria , Anker Andy Sode , Kacenauskaite Laura , Sørensen Thomas Just
Published: January 2022

Our theoretical treatment of electronic structure in coordination complexes often rests on assumptions of symmetry. Experiments rarely provide fully symmetric systems to study. In solution, fluctuation in solvation, variations in conformation, and even changes in constitution occur and complicates the picture. In crystals, lattice distortion, energy transfer, and phonon quenching is in play, but we are able to have distinct symmetries. Yet the question remains: How is the real symmetry in a crystal compared to ideal symmetries? Moreover, at what level of detail do we need to study a system to determine, if the electronic structure behaves as if it has ideal symmetry? Here, we have revisited the Continues Shape Measurement (CShM) approach developed by Ruiz-Martínez and Alvarez to evaluate the structure of ten-coordinated europium(III) ions in a K5Na[Eu2(SO4)6] structure. By comparing the result of the symmetry deviation analysis to luminescence data, we are able to show the effect of small deviations from ideal symmetry. We suggest using a symmetry deviation value, σideal, determined by using our updated approach to Continues Shape Measurements, where we also align the structure via our AlignIt code. AlignIt includes normalization and relative orientation in the symmetry comparison, and by combining the calculated values with the experimentally determined energy level splitting, we were able create the first point on a scale that can show how close to ideal an experimental structure actually is.
Nitrile IR intensities characterize electric fields and hydrogen bonding in protic, aprotic, and protein environments
Authors: Weaver Jared Bryce , Kozuch Jacek , Kirsh Jacob M. , Boxer Steven G.
Published: January 2022

Nitriles are widely used as vibrational probes; however, the interpretation of their IR frequencies is complicated by hydrogen bonding (H-bonding) in protic environments. We report a new vibrational Stark effect (VSE) that correlates the electric field projected on the nitrile bond to the transition dipole moment and, by extension, the nitrile peak area or integrated intensity. This linear VSE applies to both H-bonding and non-H-bonding interactions. It can therefore be generally applied to determine electric fields in all environments. Additionally, it allows for semi-empirical extraction of the H-bonding contribution to the blueshift of the nitrile frequency. Nitriles were incorporated at H-bonding and non-H-bonding protein sites using amber suppression, and each nitrile variant was structurally characterized at high resolution. We exploited the combined information now available from variations in frequency and integrated intensity and demonstrate that nitriles are a generally useful probe for electric fields.
Quantifying community-wide antimicrobials usage via wastewater-based epidemiology
Authors: Holton Elizabeth , Sims Natalie , Jagadeesan Kishore , Standerwick Richard , Kasprzyk-Hordern Barbara
Published: January 2022

Increasing usage of antimicrobials is a significant contributor to the emergence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. Wastewater-based epidemiology is a useful tool for evaluating public health, via the monitoring of chemical and biological markers in wastewater influent, such as antibiotics. Chemical analyses are used to determine sampled drug concentrations; measured daily flows then enable quantitation of analyte mass/day; and population estimates are utilised to calculate mass/day/1000inhabitants. These data allow for effective evaluations of drug presence and temporal trends, but do not fully represent the total quantity of drugs being consumed, i.e., human intake. Factors such as drug metabolism and physiochemical stability significantly decrease the quantity of parent drug that reaches wastewater treatment plants, leading to potential underestimations of community usage. A case study of 16 antimicrobials, and their metabolites was conducted in this study: including sulfonamides, trimethoprim, metronidazole, quinolones, nitrofurantoin, cyclines, and antiretrovirals. Correction factors (CFs) for human drug excretion, for various metabolite forms, were determined via a systematic literature review of pharmacokinetic research. Analyte stability was examined over a 24 h study. The estimation of community-wide drug intake was evaluated using the associated catchment prescription data. Overall, antimicrobials excreted in an unchanged form were often observed to over-estimate daily intake. This could be attributed to biotransformation, e.g., via glucuronide cleavage, or direct disposal of unused drugs. Acetyl-sulfonamides, trimethoprim, hydroxy-metronidazole, clarithromycin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, tetracycline, and oxytetracycline generally performed well in the estimation of drug intake, relative to prescription records. The low prevalence of quinolone and trimethoprim metabolites, and the low stability of nitrofurantoin, limited the ability to evaluate these metabolites and their respective CFs. CFs established in the systematic literature review could not be validated for some metabolites in the case study due to lack of available prescription data (lamivudine, emtricitabine); an inability to quantify biomarkers (nitrofurantoin, doxycycline); being excreted at too low levels (hydroxy-trimethoprim, ofloxacin-N-oxide, desethylene-ciprofloxacin); or insufficient pharmacokinetic literature sources (the nitrofurantoin metabolite, NPAHD). Further work is currently underway to apply established CFs in other catchment with higher prevalence of antimicrobials usage.
ASSESSMENT OF VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS
Authors: Soliman Mustafa , Al Beig Wail , Ali Mohammed Usman
Published: January 2022

Aim: To assess vitamin D deficiency in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Materials & Methods: Eighty- two type 2 diabetes mellitus patients of either gender and equal number of healthy controls were also enrolled. 25(OH)D level was estimated by chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA). Normal serum 25 (OH)D level was defined as 30 ng/ml or more. Vitamin D insufficiency state was defined at a level of 21 – 29 ng/ml. Vitamin D deficiency state was defined at a level of 20 ng/ml or less. Severe vitamin D deficiency was defined as < 10 ng/ml. Results: There were 35 severely deficient, 20 deficient, 12 insufficient and 15 normal patients in group 1 and 2 severely deficient, 4 deficient, 8 insufficient and 8 normal subjects in group 2. Conclusion: Type II DM patients had severe vitamin D deficiency as compared to healthy control subjects.
ASCENDING AORTIC ANEURYSM – A CASE REPORT
Authors: Kumar. J. Prathap
Published: January 2022

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal dilation of the aorta to greater than 1.5 times its normal size. They usually cause no symptoms except when ruptured. Occasionally, there may be symptoms like abdominal, back, or leg pain. They are most commonly located in the abdominal aorta, but can also be located in the thoracic aorta, rarely in arch of aorta. Abdominal aortic aneurysm is more common in men, a disease that is often asymptomatic and has up to a 90% risk of mortality if the aneurysm ruptures. It can be easily diagnosed by an ultrasound screening, and if the aneurysm is > 5.5 cm, it can be surgically repaired to prevent a life-threatening rupture. Aneurysm of the ascending aorta is rare but can be easily diagnosed by echocardiogram.
VALUE CHAIN ANALYSIS OF TOMATO IN PALPA DISTRICT OF NEPAL
Authors: Chhetri Apil , Panth Bishnu Prasad , Poudel Diwas , Gauli Bibhor , Bhattarai Dipak
Published: January 2022

The study was conducted from January to June 2020. This study aims at carrying out the value chain analysis of tomato subsector in Palpa district. The specific objectives of the study were identifying the actors involved in value chain of tomato, finding out benefit cost ratio, marketing margin, producer share and value share of value chain actors, preparing value chain map of tomatoes and identifying the key strength, weakness, opportunities, and threats at different nodes of tomato value chain. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected by household interview, KII and secondary data was collected through published journals, research articles, reports of PMAMP, AKC and other government organizations. Data analysis was done using SPSS, Ms-Excel, and Stata statistical software. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, benefit cost ratio, Cobb-Douglas production function, correlation analysis and value chain mapping. The opportunities and challenges in tomato value chain was achieved using strength, weakness, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis. From the study it was found that economically active population was 60.9% and majority of tomato growers (69.2%) has agriculture as their primary occupation. The average farm size was 0.7 ha and average area for tomato farming was 0.1 ha. The average productivity of tomato of sampled household was 29Mt/ha under open field condition. The average cost of tomato production was NRs. 18.2/kg. The gross margin and net margin per ha were NRs. 394474.4 and NRs. 362014.2 respectively. Benefit cost ratio was 1.67. Market margin was NRs. 25/kg with producer’s share 54.55% in the mostly used value chain. Similarly, market margin of local value chain was NRs. 15/kg with producer’s share 70% in the local value chain. The result identified that the major actors involved in the value chain were input suppliers, collector/cooperatives, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. The disease/insect infestation was major problem in production while low farm-gate price was major problem in marketing in the study area. The research showed that tomato farming is an important agribusiness in the research area.
PLANT BREEDING APPROACHES FOR COMBATING IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION: A REVIEW
Authors: Adhikari Sandhya , Suwal Gresha , Suwal Binita , Bashyal Nisha , Pandey Roshma
Published: January 2022

Climate change is the most pressing environmental challenge of this century creating deleterious impact on the agricultural productivity. Besides all the knock-on effects of climate change, rising concentration of carbon dioxide and temperature affects overall plant physiology, growth, reproduction and resilience. The forth coming generations of crops are most vulnerable to the changing climate which will rely on genetic interventions by the selection of target traits in controlled environments, and high throughput phenotyping and genotyping. Plant breeding approaches plays predominant role to create cultivars which are well adapted to new climate demand, introduce new desirable genes adapted to genetic background as well as broaden genetic traits/genes in a breeding material in pace with environmental change and stress. Genetic breeding techniques gives an ever more cost-effective option to characterize available genetic diversity and also makes the mechanism of climate adaptation and application in crop breeding more acceptable This paper reviews the impacts of Climate Change on Agriculture sector and also highlights the adaptation of plant breeding technology to reduce and tackle the climate change. The objective is to discuss the evidences of climate change and its impact in food production system. The motive is to prompt the policymaker, breeders and development agents the essentiality of tackling this serious threat so to reduce crop losses related to climate change.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF I.B.A CONCENTRATION ON CLONAL PROPAGATION OF EUCALYPTUS SPECIES IN GHANA WEST AFRICA
Authors: Sarpong Nana Yaw , Agyemang Frank Ofori , E.K.A Siaw Daniel , Menason Essakku
Published: January 2022

Effective rooting and survival of cuttings has become more important owing to increased global wood demands and climate change. This study assesses the survival of ten (10) clones each of Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla (E. grandis x E. urophylla) and Eucalyptus pellita (E. pellita) clonal cuttings when treated with different Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) auxin concentrations of 0 ppm (control), 2000 ppm, 3000 ppm and 4000 ppm respectively. Overall, the mean survival of cuttings with respect to both species (10 clones each) was low (i.e < 50%) for all concentrations of IBA used. E. grandis x E. urophylla cuttings had the highest mean survival (43.39%) when treated with 2000 ppm of IBA and lowest mean survival (37.86%) when treated with 0 ppm. E. pellita (P) cuttings had the highest mean survival (27.14%) when treated with 2000 ppm of IBA. Individual clones however showed higher survival with respect to IBA treatments. Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla clone (GH11) achieved a mean survival rate of 75% with 2000ppm of IBA. E. pellita clone P2 achieved its highest survival (52.68%) in the control experiment (0 ppm). Although IBA application had significant effect on cutting survival, parent material (individual clones) also plays a vital role in cutting survival as some clones such P51 and P82 achieved survivals of less than 10% given all four levels of IBA used. Individual clones also respond to IBA concentration differently. GH3 and GH10 had their highest survivals (i.e 66.07% and 61.61% respectively) in the control (0ppm of IBA). Results from this study can be used in plus tree clonal selection regimes to identify the best economically rewarding clones in terms of cutting survival to be used in forest plantation establishments.
Research on the Innovation Path to Strengthen Excellent Traditional Culture Education for Colleges and Universities in Shenzhen Under the Background of “Driven by Two Regions”
Authors: Yang Jialiang , Xu Peiheng , Li Fenglian , Ding Feng
Published: January 2022

With a series of stated-issued policies to support the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Shenzhen has welcomed a major historical opportunity period of “driven by two regions.” Shenzhen is a pilot demonstration area of socialism with Chinese characteristics and a dual core region of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. For colleges and universities in Shenzhen, this is both an opportunity and challenge. Under government support, colleges and universities in Shenzhen should carry out excellent traditional culture education, conduct top-level design, built an excellent traditional cultural education system, help students to form correct outlook on life and values, enhance a sense of national identity, supply first-class talents with both political integrity and professional competence for the two regions, as well as gather strength for developing the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and pilot demonstration area of socialism with Chinese characteristics.