bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Biobutanol Production from Agroindustrial By-Products: A Multi-Criteria Analysis Approach towards a Circular Economy
Authors: Spalvins Kriss , Kusnere Zane , Raita Svetlana , Berzina Indra , Feldmane Linda
Published: May 2023

Biobutanol is a more efficient alternative to petrol than bioethanol and can be used as a partial or complete substitute for petrol in unmodified internal combustion engines. Sustainable production of the biobutanol depends on the used feedstock source and its pretreatment methods, selected enhancing strategy of microorganism strain, acetonebutanolethanol fermentation effectiveness, and solvent recovery techniques. The aim of this paper is to find the most optimal set of technological solutions for the production of biobutanol from agroindustrial by-products for cost effective manner in line with circular economy principles. Identification of the optimal solution set for efficient biobutanol production for agroindustrial by-products will be done by using multi-criteria analysis (MCA). This paper provides MCA results and methodology description.
Optimizing Biobutanol Production: Analysis of Feedstock Selection, Pre-treatment Methods, and Microorganism Strains for Biobutanol Production from Agricultural and Industrial By-products
Authors: Spalvins Kriss , Kusnere Zane , Raita Svetlana , Berzina Indra
Published: May 2023

This study presents an analysis of key elements of biobutanol production, including feedstock selection, pre-treatment methods, and microorganism strains. Using laboratory experiments, we evaluated the ability of different microorganisms to convert various agricultural and industrial by-products into biobutanol. We tested three microorganism strains: C. acetobutylicum DSM 792, C. beijerinckii DSM 6423, and C. saccharoperbutylacetonicum DSM 14923. The results showed that biodiesel production residues, various agricultural hydrolysates, yeast residues, and milk processing residues were the most suitable feedstocks for biobutanol production. In addition, the authors explored different pre-treatment methods, such as microbial and chemical hydrolysis, to enhance the efficiency of biobutanol production. Our findings provide valuable insights for optimizing biobutanol production processes in line with sustainable and cost-effective production principles.
Compilation of Groups of Mutagens used to Obtain Optimized Yeast Strains.
Authors: Feldmane Linda , Spalviņš Krišs
Published: May 2023

Yeasts can be used to process industrial by-products to produce products with higher added value. To optimize the technology, new yeast strains can be created through mutagenesis with improved traits of interests. To achieve this, different mutagens can be used. Mutagens can be divided into physical, chemical, and biological. Each type has its own methodology, operating mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages. Physical mutagens are the oldest, of which UV radiation is the most used. However, others are less commonly used for yeast mutagenesis due to complicated or unwieldy instrumentation. Chemical mutagens are the most widely used to obtain improved yeast strains. The most recent mutagens to be used under laboratory conditions are biological mutagens. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, it is also possible to create targeted changes in previously selected regions of the genome in yeast species.
Optimization of Ultrasound-assisted Extraction Conditions for Active Essential Oil and Anti-Alzheimer Activities from Mentha Cordifolia
Authors: Sangsuwon Chanyapat , Kularbphettong Kunyanuth , Chutrtong ่Jaruwan
Published: May 2023

Mentha C. (Lamiaceae) is distributed all over the world. Essential oils were found menthol, menthofuran, menthyl acetate, menthone, 1.8-cineole, pinene, myrcene and borneol. Mentha C. most popular herbs are widely used in cooking, in cosmetics, complementary therapy and pharmaceutical for anticarcinogenic, gastro protective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antivirotic purposes. For essential oil extraction, a steam distillation, or hydro-distillation method was used, which allows the decomposition of components. The aim of this work was to study the innovative technologies of essential oil by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) that include high yields, short-extraction time and save energy. The extraction of essential oils was carried out at three ultrasonic frequencies (15 kHz, 20 kHz, and 25 kHz), sonicated times were 1, 2 and 3 hours. The solvents extracted were hexane, ethylacetate and 95 % ethanol. The sonication conditions were different of compounds showed by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). The extraction compounds by hexane from sonicated at 20 kHz (2 h) were terpene hydrocarbon which was nonpolar essential oil. The oxygenated terpenoids were extracted by ethyl acetate from sonicated at 20 kHz (3 h) and the phenolic compounds were extracted by 95 % ethanol. The data was treated by applying multivariate statistical analysis. The tested of antioxidant by DPPH, and ABTS radical were the best of ethanol extracted IC50 73 mg/ml, ethyl acetate extracted and ethyl acetate extracted IC50 103 mg/ml, respectively. IC50 of anti-acetylcholinesterase were 125.5 mg/ml of ethyl acetate extracted.
Sustaining a Mars Colony through Integration of Single-cell Protein and Oil Production in Food Supply Chains
Authors: Spalvins Kriss , Kusnere Zane , Raita Svetlana , Berzina Indra , Feldmane Linda , Mika Taras
Published: May 2023

As humanity sets its sights on establishing a sustainable and prosperous colony on Mars, one of the key challenges to overcome is ensuring a reliable and nutritious food supply for settlers. While various solutions for food production on Mars have been proposed, there is a growing interest in the use of microorganisms as a means of producing essential nutrients. This review article highlights the advantages of utilizing single-cell protein and single-cell oil technologies to produce essential amino acids and fatty acids for the food supply chains of a Mars colony. We provide an analysis of the potential benefits, challenges and limitations of these solutions and outline the necessary steps to be taken in order to successfully integrate them into the infrastructure of a Martian settlement.
Biomethane Production and Utilization Pathways: an MDCA-based Impact Assessment in Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Asquer Carla , Romagnoli Francesco
Published: May 2023

Biogas from the anaerobic digestion of organic substrates represents a renewable and sustainable fuel widely deployed in Sardinia, supported by the high share of rural areas and the generation of agro-industrial residues and by-products. On the wave of new economic incentives, interest is gradually shifting to biomethane. Nonetheless, the possible uses of biomethane are compelled by the local energy system, which defects in the implementation of the natural gas grid and gas fuelling stations. This is the reason why heat and power production may still be considered one of the most plausible biomethane utilization. Multiple options for upgrading biogas into biomethane exist. Chemical absorption represents an established and reliable upgrading solution. However, innovative alternatives such as biological methanation have emerged characterized by high sustainability and versatility. In the present paper, six scenarios for biomethane generation and utilization are presented and analysed to determine an integrated impact benchmark for each of them. The impact assessment is structured in criteria that depict the environmental, economic, technological and social dimensions. It is carried out using the Multi-criteria Decision Analysis. An in-depth literature review allowed to identify quantitative and qualitative indicators for each dimension according to a rationale described in the paper. The results describe the processes and technologies involved and determine the integrated impacts for the considered scenarios. The method adopted emphasizes the regional worth of the assessment process, and the critical importance of collecting technological data at the pilot or commercial scale, given the distinctiveness of the experiences developed at the laboratory-scale.
Model Predictive Control of Grid-Connected Battery Systems to avoid PV-induced Overvoltage
Authors: Kirchsteiger Harald , Landl Sarah
Published: May 2023

Photovoltaic (PV) power plants are currently built at a high rate, both small ones for single family houses and large-scale plants with a power output in the MW range. This development accelerated even more since the beginning of the energy crisis in 2021. Due to intermittent energy production, large voltage swings may result in the electrical grid, which are challenging for grid and operators. We are considering the problem of overvoltage in times of excessive PV production, which is well documented in the literature. To avoid overvoltage, without PV-curtailment or grid expansion, grid-connected battery systems are proposed. The research focus is on advanced control strategies for such systems which charge and discharge at appropriate times to reduce the overvoltage in the grid while simultaneously minimizing the required battery capacity. The work presented extends a previous contribution of the authors. The analysis was done in a simulation environment (MATLAB/Simulink).
Synthesis of Nano-Calcium Oxide from Industrial Brine Sludge Waste with Nanocrystalline Cellulose (NCC) as Addictive/composites and Modelling using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Rutto Hilary
Published: May 2023

Biodiesel production as a fuel in diesel engines has expanded dramatically in recent years and is likely to increase more in the near future. Increasing biodiesel consumption requires optimized production techniques that allow for large production capacities, simplified operations, high yields, and the usage of more cost-effective feedstocks such as waste oils and fats. In this study, biodiesel was produced from waste vegetable oil (WVO) and Methanol (CH3OH) in the presence of a catalyst which was derived from industrial waste that mainly consists of Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3). The produced nano-particle catalyst was characterized by using Fourier Transform infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The optimum operating conditions for the highest biodiesel yield after applying the artificial neural network (ANN) approach was found to be 96.41 % yield at a temperature of 55 °C, catalyst loading of 1.25 % w/v, Methanol to oil ratio of 1:5 w/w and reaction time of 75 min. The FTIR showed the presents of CaO and NCC functional group. SEM image revealed that the produced catalyst is more porous, with small particle size, and XRD pattern presented the presence of cellulose (NCC) and Calcium Oxide (CaO) nano particles in the synthesized catalyst. The R2 of 0.977 was found to be for the mathematical models to predict biodiesel production.
Invasive Plant Biomass as Source of Polyphenols
Authors: Purmalis Oskars , Klavins Linards , Niedrite Evelina , Klavins Maris
Published: May 2023

Invasive plant species contribute to problems related to the functioning of ecosystems, causing economic damage, damage to human health and reducing quality of recreational resources. They are characterized by rapid and aggressive spread, suppressing endemic species. For the full use of invasive plant biomass, it is necessary to find sustainable, bio-based control solutions, based on the knowledge of their composition. To increase awareness of possible usage of invasive plant biomass, the authors have chosen such plants as Lupinus polyphyllus, Impatiens glandulifera, Heracleum sosnowskyi and Echinocystis lobata, which make stands, and therefore mechanical harvesting can be used to collect plant biomass. In various parts of these plants, total polyphenols using the Folin-Ciocalteu method and antiradical activity using DPPH method are studied. The obtained amount of polyphenols in the analysed samples of plants and their parts are different with highest concentration in Impatiens glandulifera leafs reaching concentration 9.78– 16.75 g GAE / 100g DW. Although in the case of Lupinus polyphyllus, the highest concentrations of polyphenols are identified in the methanol extracts of roots (24.85 g GAE / 100 g DW) and flowers (17.77 g GAE / 100g DW) of the plant as richest parts of polyphenols in the studied plants are leaves and flowers. The obtained results confirm the potential use of invasive plants biomass as a source of biologically active substances – polyphenols, after plants eradication.
Prediction of CO2 Emissions Using Machine Learning
Authors: Bussaban Kanyarat , Kularbphettong Kunyanuth , Boonseng Chongrag
Published: May 2023

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the important issues concerning human evolution that drives global climate change. It is emitted from the combustion of fuels causing global warming. The global community has gradually turned to pay more attention to environmental issues. This paper implements four prediction models using Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN, or ConvNet) to predict CO2 trapping efficiency among CO2 emissions, energy use, and GDP. The Machine Learning (ML) approaches used in this study have shown good performance with SVM and CNN models with MAPE. The result can be a significant model for the decision support system to improve a suitable policy for global CO2 emission reduction.
A Decision Tool for Wood Waste Valorization
Authors: Pazzaglia Aron , Castellani Beatrice
Published: May 2023

Wood is an increasingly demanded biomaterial used in many fields: construction, materials, furniture, packaging, and energy. New consumption tendency indicates a major production of wood waste that is a starter for many processes. In Europe, about 54 % of wood waste is incinerated, while 46 % is recycled. In Italy, almost 95 % of wood waste is used to produce chipboard and particleboard. There are many other processes available to improve wood recycling; however, it is important to identify the best treatment way depending on the source matrix. Wood waste is a heterogeneous material that contains contaminating materials, pollutants, and additives. Hence, wood waste management depends on material composition analysis. In fact, it gives significant suggestions regarding how to manage the waste. From this point of view, a decision tool (DT) regarding wood waste destiny hinging on chemical composition is proposed. In particular, the DT gives rapid recommendation based on the chemical results. The most relevant elements considered are cellulose, lignin and hemicellulose content. In addition, pollutants, additives, and other contaminants are crucial to find the best pathway. Some available technologies make it possible to use wood waste for energy and heat generation, pulping, mulching, animal bedding, and other. Utilizing such waste could create job opportunities and generate income for the local companies. The utilization of wood waste in recycling can minimize the gap from supply and demand of lignocellulosic matter. Moreover, it prevents deforestation and contributes to the CO2 offset process. Furthermore, it is possible to obtain add-value materials utilizing the right process for each determined substrate.
Municipal Solid Waste Management towards Climate Neutrality
Authors: Pubule Jeļena , Kaleja Daina , Lesnicenoka Elina
Published: May 2023

In line with the European Union’s move and the Green Deal initiative, Latvia needs to reduce CO2 emissions by 2030 and reach their complete elimination by 2050. Since waste management sector is associated with high greenhouse gas emissions, the sector will experience changes in the near future, and its sustainable development is linked to overcoming technical, economic and environmental challenges. The work aims to find solutions to the development of the waste sector in an environmentally sound manner, ensuring that the sector is closer to climate neutrality in 2050. Waste management is at the forefront of major changes and challenges in achieving regulatory objectives. In view of the changes expected and taking place in the sector, it is essential to carry out studies on resource and material recovery optimization options and potential for waste streams to be recycled and the energy recovery potential for non-recyclable streams. Acquiring knowledge and raising awareness of the role of changing management practices in saving CO2 emissions – avoided emissions – will allow the sector to move towards climate neutrality. This article analyses biodegradable waste management options and proposes the optimal solution for biodegradable waste management towards climate neutrality.
Circular Economy Options for Medical Textile Waste
Authors: Zandberga Anda , Kalniņš Silvija Nora , Gušča Jūlija
Published: May 2023

To support circular economy and sustainability, all European Union Member states are obliged by 2025 to collect textiles separately. Textile waste has become a part of the Sustainable Development Goals that aims to innovation in the textile sector including textile collection, reuse, sorting and recycling. Along this, the healthcare industry has a significant impact on the environment: it releases annually around 26 Gt of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions and generates on an average 3 kg of medical waste per bed per day in healthcare facilities in Europe. The main focus of the research paper is to quantify the material flow of textile waste generated/likely to be generated in the health care sector as well as to calculate its potential for material recovery. Since medical textile recovery has limitations in sorting and recycling activities due to prevalence of infections, a systematic approach in textile waste management needs to be applied both at collection phase and treatment phase. Within the present research, a database with health care products categories (42 units) are developed, and the categories are characterized by textile type, application in health care sector, fibre, contamination level after use, potential product for substitution. To measure the recovery potential of the textile waste, the indicator analysis considering technological, environmental, infection control, and economic aspects is performed.
Assessing the Global Sustainability Impact of Improving the Secondary Steel Production: Lessons Learned from an Italian Steel Plant
Authors: Tomasoni Giuseppe , Marciano Filippo , Stefana Elena , Cocca Paola
Published: May 2023

This study presents a comprehensive sustainability assessment of a series of technical interventions aimed at improving a secondary steel production process using the Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology in a steel plant located in northern Italy. The assessment covers the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability by considering three sets of indicators and employing a multi-criteria decision-making approach. The results show that the considered interventions can lead to significant improvements in the sustainability performance of the EAF process. The study also highlights the trade-offs and synergies among the sustainability dimensions and provides recommendations for decision-makers to promote sustainable practices in the steel industry. Overall, this study underscores the importance of addressing the sustainability challenges faced by energy-intensive industries such as steel production.
Experimental Evaluation of Carrier Materials: A New Wood Ash Filter Material Comparison with Others Used for Ex-Situ Biomethanation
Authors: Kusnere Zane , Rupeika Diana , Spalvins Kriss , Mika Taras
Published: May 2023

Biomethanation is a prospective method to integrate a renewable solar or wind power grid with a biogas grid, where excess energy can be used to produce hydrogen for the biomethanation of the biogas and produce biomethane. The use of biotrickling filter reactors with appropriate carrier materials for biomethanation is essential for the immobilisation of hydrogenotrophic methanogens on the surface of the packing material. Wood ash filter material use end-of-the-line waste ash as the main raw material for the production of filters. The wood ash filter material is a robust porous material that has good properties in the context of biomethanation. Testing packing materials in constantly operating biotrickling filter reactors would cost too much time and money. The purpose of this study is to compare a novel wood ash filter material with materials that are often applied in the sector. The study uses an effective methodology to test three alternative packing materials for use in a biotrickling filter. The manometric method and BMP test is used to determine the rate of CH4 production. The physical parameters such as bulk-specific surface area (m2 × m–3), external porosity (% vol), and bulk density (kg × m–3), and chemical composition of the novel wood ash filter material are compared to other filter materials commonly used in biomethanation applications. The results of the experiment determine whether the novel wood ash filter material or other tested materials can compete with and even replace some of the materials currently used in biomethanation applications.
POLITICAL POPULISM AND EXTREMISM IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA AS A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY, TRUST AND MUTUAL RESPECT
Authors: IVANOVIĆ Aleksandar R.
Published: May 2023

Political populism and extremism pose a serious threat to the establishment of democracy, trust building and mutual respect between members of different ethnic and religious groups. Accordingly, the aim of this paper is to point out the specifics of political populism in Bosnia and Herzegovina, pointing to the presence of extremism in the narratives of political leaders in this area and the impact of political populism and extremism on establishing democracy, trust and mutual respect between different ethnic and religious groups living in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In accordance with this goal, the author first points out the meaning of the terms populism and extremism, bringing these two terms together in terms of political discourses, that is narratives. After that, the author analyzes the pop- ulist narratives of the leaders of the leading political parties in Bosnia and Herze- govina, pointing out the common characteristics and segments of extremism that exist in these narratives. In the concluding part of the paper, the author presents his views on the issue of negative consequences that the existence of this type of political populism leaves on the Bosnian society in general.
PRIZNAVANJE PRAVNOG STATUSA SOCIJALNIM PREDUZEĆIMA U BOSNI I HERCEGOVINI
Authors: MIHAJLOVIĆ Borko
Published: May 2023

Prve dvije decenije XXI vijeka nerijetko se smatraju periodom u kojima dolazi do ekspanzije i rasta socijalnih preduzeća i socijalne ekonomije u mnogim evropskim zemljama. Posljedica opisanog trenda je i sve češće prizna- vanje pravnog statusa socijalnim preduzećima posebnim zakonskim propisima, tako da danas većina država članica Evropske unije (EU), barem na indirektan način, dodjeljuje pravni status socijalnim preduzećima. I u Bosni i Hercegovini (BiH) posljednjih godina primijetno je veće interesovanje za socijalnu ekonomiju i njene pojavne oblike, kao i potencijale koje one donose. Rezultat tog interesovanja je početak stvaranja normativnog okvira za osnivanje i poslovanje socijalnih pre-duzeća, koji bi svakako trebalo da doprinese njihovom većem prisustvu i znača- jnijoj ulozi na tržištu. Osnovni predmet ovog rada je analiza nedavno usvojene pravne regulative o socijalnom preduzetništvu u pravu Republike Srpske (RS) i pravu Brčko Distrikta BiH (BD). Tom analizom obuhvaćene su odredbe navedenih zakona koje se odnose na definisanje socijalnih preduzeća i njihova osnovna obil- ježja, kao i odredbe kojima su regulisani uslovi i postupak sticanja statusa socijal- nog preduzeća.
PRAKSA USTAVNOG SUDA BOSNE I HERCEGOVINE
Authors: SIMOVIĆ Marina M.
Published: May 2023

Uopšteno govoreći, nadležnosti Ustavnog suda Bosne i Herce- govine definisane su u članovima IV/3, VI/3 i VI/4 Ustava Bosne i Hercegovine. U okviru osnovne zadaće – podržavanja Ustava Bosne i Hercegovine, prema ovim ustavnim odredbama, radi se o sedam vidova nadležnosti, što u krajnjem znači i diferencirane postupke, kao i specifične odluke zavisno od vrste nadležnosti i prirode sporova. U osnovi, diferenciranje ovih nadležnosti se zasniva na činjenici u kojoj mjeri Ustavni sud Bosne i Hercegovine, pored klasičnog zadatka koji se odnosi na zaštitu ustavnosti, u pojedinim vrstama sporova ostvaruje i neposredni- ju vezu sa sudskom, odnosno zakonodavnom vlašću. U članku se daje prikaz nekoliko najnovijih odluka Ustavnog suda Bosne i Her- cegovine iz apelacione jurisdikcije ovog suda. U skladu sa članom VI/3b) Ustava Bosne i Hercegovine, Ustavni sud, takođe, ima apelacionu nadležnost u pitanjima koja su sadržana u ovom ustavu kada ona postanu predmet spora zbog presude bilo kojeg suda u Bosni i Hercegovini. Uz to, u skladu sa članom 18, stav 1 Pravila Ustavnog suda, Ustavni sud može razmatrati apelaciju samo ako su protiv pre- sude, odnosno odluke koja se njome pobija, iscrpljeni svi djelotvorni pravni lije- kovi mogući prema zakonu i ako se podnese u roku od 60 dana od dana kada je podnosilac apelacije primio odluku o posljednjem djelotvornom pravnom lijeku kojeg je koristio.
Speed Control of BLDC Motor With Ripple Effect Reduction Using Recurrent Wavelet Neural Networks
Authors: Lajić Romanela , Matić Petar
Published: May 2023

The interest in research and use of the Brushless DC (BLDC) motor has increased significantly over the last few years, due to development of electric vehicles (EV) as well as to its use in other growing areas. With further predicted growth of the EV industry, it is expected that the BLDC motor will become even more significant. BLDC motor is a highly nonlinear, dynamic system, which in terms of its control makes tuning of controllers difficult, especially when high precision is required. Because of its operating principle BLDC motor also has issues with torque ripple which affects the speed response in a speed controlled system. In this paper an intelligent controller that combines a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller with a recurrent wavelet neural network is proposed. By using an intelligent controller, as an adition to a standard PID, the approximation ability of neural networks is used not only to deal with the nonlinearity of the system, but also to reduce the torque ripple influence on the speed response. By computer simulations it is verified that the proposed controller is able to completely neutralize the ripple effect and achieve good transient speed response. It is also shown that improved robustness against load disturbance compared to the system containing only a PID controller is achieved.
Blockchain Adoption in Aviation: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Momoh M. O. , Shobowale K. O. , Abubakar Z. M. , Yahaya B. , Ibrahim Y.
Published: May 2023

In the world of aviation, current evidence suggests that data management systems are majorly centralized and at the same time suffer some noted shortfalls. Whereas, under this system of operation, it is hard to guarantee trust, especially data provenance, in addition to other shortfalls. More so, there are issues of lack of sufficient governance of data immutability, transparency, auditability, and traceability; which present debilitating drawbacks to the current regime of centralized data management systems in aviation industries. Blockchain as a new normal disruptive technology promises potency and reliability in data trust, traceability, transparency, auditability, and immutability. Blockchain further emphasizes immutability for stored and exchanged data, in transaction environments, in a decentralized and secure manner. That is, in a manner whereby a trusted third-party involvement is not required. For this reason, this paper discusses and highlights the key characteristics that differentiate and denominate Blockchain. It dwells more upon Blockchain application in aviation, in its several sectors such as passenger verification, In-flight Entertainment (IFE) Monetization, Smart Contract, Digital Identity, Distribution, Payment, and so on. Also, the paper did not conclude without pointing out areas of inconclusive research in Blockchain technology to stimulate further research studies leading to new understanding, knowledge, ideation, and idea incubation.
Teachers’ Use of School Information Systems for Data-Driven Decision-Making: Who is Serving Whom?
Authors: Gilad Avi , Hershkovitz Arnon
Published: May 2023

We report on a qualitative study (N=15) of K-12 school teachers’ use of a school information system for their daily decision-making, particularly on areas of decision-making, practices of data-feeding into the system, and using the stored data for decision-making. Our findings
suggest that teachers make decisions mostly regarding pedagogical practices and about teacher-student relationship; that they mostly feed data to the system following school regulations; and that the system is of little use when it comes to actually making decisions. In general, the research
shows that instead of helping teachers, School Information Systems often become a burden on them.
Eventyret Norsk Moskus A/S
Authors: Schytte Blix Arnoldus
Published: May 2023

Norsk Moskus A/S was, for good or worse, Alfred Henningsen’s own private eterprise. It was by many, probably also by Henningsen himself, judged as a failure. That is hardly the full story. The project was inspired from USA, where a similar project was already under way with the purpose to domesticate the muskox to improve the economic and social conditions of native arctic people by using the wool to produce garment for sale. In addition, Henningsen wanted to secure the economy by tourism based on public interest in the animals. He also approached the new university in Tromsø for cooperation from the very beginning. The operation was established in Bardu in northern Norway and had several shortcomings already from the beginning in 1969. It had no financial base whatsoever, as Henningsen assumed that his connections as member of Parliament would soon provide the cash. That did not happen. The information from USA was (quite erroneously) that domestication of muskox was very easy, and therefore, and because of bad economy, no relevant husbandry expertice was involved. Instead, the project was managed by amateurs and enthusiastic volunters. The expected cooperation with research institutions did not materialise either. In spite of this, the project took off rather well during the first few years. Calf production was good, wool and garment production was well under way and tourists brought in the cash. Even so, because of the need for heavy infrastructure investments they were always economically behind, and very soon had to sell animals to avoid bankrupsy. 1975 became a turningpoint. At that time they were hit by a massive outbreak of Contagious echtyma which killed all the calves and half of the adult bulls, and a local resident was killed by a bull which had escaped from the farm. The latter turned a hitherto positive attitude among the locals to become rather hostile, and necessitated a move of the whole operation to Årøya in Kvænangen where the locals were still positive in 1976. The relocation inflicted new heavy infrastructure investments which was financed by the sale of several of the remaining animals, but the relocation was, at first, nevertheless, a success, and everything looked bright for the 1977 season. However, just before the opening the Ministry of Agriculture decided, with reference to new legislation, to ban public showing of the animals. The decision was appealed, but was in the end turned down in a decision by, no less than, the King in Cabinet. After much politicking, however, a temporary permit was granted in 1979, but at that time the project was economically at rock bottom, and a new bridge which led the tourist trafic away from the farm had materialized. After fighting for 20 years Henningsen then gave up and donated the 10 remaining animals to the Department of Arctic Biology at the University of Tromsø. The University consequently set up a farm at Rya island outside Tromsø, where they trived and for 40 years were used for reseach, and thereby fullfilling one of the most important original intensions of the project.
Higher serum β2-microglobulin is a predictive biomarker for cognitive impairment in spinal cord injury
Authors: Cui Zhonghao , Wang Shuai , Hao Yanke , Chen Yuanzhen
Published: May 2023

Objective

Recent studies have suggested that high levels of β2-microglobulin are linked to cognitive deterioration; however, it is unclear how this connects to spinal cord injury (SCI). This study sought to determine whether there was any association between cognitive decline and serum β2-microglobulin levels in patients with SCI.

Methods

A total of 96 patients with SCI and 56 healthy volunteers were enrolled as study participants. At the time of enrollment, specific baseline data including age, gender, triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), smoking, and alcohol use were recorded. Each participant was assessed by a qualified physician using the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) scale. Serum β2-microglobulin levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) reagent for β2-microglobulin.

Results

A total of 152 participants were enrolled, with 56 in the control group and 96 in the SCI group. There were no significant baseline data differences between the two groups (p > 0.05). The control group had a MoCA score of 27.4 ± 1.1 and the SCI group had a score of 24.3 ± 1.5, with the difference being significant (p < 0.05). The serum ELISA results revealed that the levels of β2-microglobulin in the SCI group were considerably higher (p < 0.05) than those in the control group (2.08 ± 0.17 g/mL compared to 1.57 ± 0.11 g/mL). The serum β2-microglobulin level was used to categorize the patients with SCI into four groups. As serum β2-microglobulin levels increased, the MoCA score reduced (p < 0.05). After adjustment of baseline data, further regression analysis showed that serum β2-microglobulin level remained an independent risk factor for post-SCI cognitive impairment.

Conclusions

Patients with SCI had higher serum levels of β2-microglobulin, which may be a biomarker for cognitive decline following SCI.
Inovação social e racionalidade em Weber: um estudo de caso em organizações da sociedade civil
Authors: Bernardes Leandro dos Santos , Borba Pricila Cardoso , Machado Sibeli Cardoso Borba , Casagrande Jacir Leonir , Nunes Nei Antônio , Andreola Jocélia Felícia
Published: May 2023

Ainda que não se tenha unanimidade conceitual para determinar as inovações sociais, os estudos sob esta temática passaram a despertar a atenção dos pesquisadores, pois há expectativa de que o desenvolvimento das ações nessa área proporcionem maior empoderamento e emancipação à parte desassistida da sociedade. As organizações da sociedade civil se apresentam como detentoras de grande potencial para empregar iniciativas junto a esta camada social. Sob essa ótica, faz-se necessário compreender quais os direcionadores que orientam as decisões presentes nas ações de inovação social dessas organizações, uma vez que as ações dos sujeitos que desdobram essas iniciativas de inovação social são influenciadas por seus contextos sociais e por consequência suas racionalidades. Nesse sentido, esse artigo consiste em um estudo de caso versando sob a temática da inovação social e racionalidade, buscando investigar a característica das ações realizadas por uma organização da sociedade civil localizada em Florianópolis-SC sob a perspectiva da racionalidade definida pelo sociólogo Max Weber. A abordagem da pesquisa foi qualitativa e as principais constatações indicam que as ações que geram entregas para o público que se destinam, proporcionando empoderamento e emancipação possuem características mais ligadas à racionalidade orientada à valores, embora em alguns momentos ocorra certa tensão entre esse tipo com a racionalidade orientada à fins.
Ho Chi Minh’s thought on cadre work and its application in building cadres in Vietnam today
Authors: Hang Tran Thi Thu , Chien Tran Thien , Thanh Le Thi
Published: May 2023

Ho Chi Minh’s thought on cadre work in order to build a contingent of cadres who are both professional and capable, capable of leading, able to organize the masses to perform well the revolutionary task of our country. selected target. He said: “Officers are the root of all work”; “All success or failure is due to good or bad cadres”. In the work “Modifying the way of working”. He wrote: “Civil servants are those who explain the policies of the Party and the Government to the people to understand and implement them. At the same time, bring the situation of the people to report to the Party, to the Government to understand clearly, to set the right policy. Therefore, cadres are the root of all work”. Thus, the Party’s cadre work is decisive for the success or failure of the Vietnamese revolution. In his speeches or articles about the Party’s cadres and cadres, President Ho Chi Minh often cares about very core and principled and very comprehensive issues such as: Selection, training - training , assessment, use arrangement, management and staff policies. The article uses the document retrospective method to review, interpret, and systematize as well as analyze documents on Ho Chi Minh’s thought on cadre work. From there, it is applied in building a contingent of cadres in Vietnam in the current new situation.
Optic Nerve Head Melanocytoma Co-existing in a Case of Thyroid Eye Disease: Co-incidence or Cause?
Authors: Rajagopal Janani , Das Gopal K
Published: May 2023

Optic Nerve Head Melanocytoma (ONHM) is a rare benign pigmented tumour of the uveal tract, seen commonly at the optic nerve head. The tumour is associated with a few ocular and systemic conditions. It usually remains stationary and rarely (1-2%) undergoes a malignant transformation. With the progressive understanding of its benign nature with advancing imaging modalities, observation with regular follow-up is the mainstay of treatment. A 35-year-old female, presented with complaints of foreign body sensation in both eyes. She was a known case of graves’ disease under treatment with anti-thyroid drugs and beta blockers. Ocular examination revealed classic signs of thyroid eye disease. The left eye fundus revealed a large, black, globular tumour in the optic nerve head obscuring the entire disc and Ultrasound B scan revealed a tumour at the optic nerve head with high echogenicity. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) through the mass revealed a dome-shaped elevation with obscuration of underlying details due to heavy pigmentation, with no signs of subretinal exudation or edema. Thyroid profile was within normal limits. A diagnosis of left eye ONHM was made. The patient was started on tapering doses of systemic steroids and was regularly followed up to monitor the tumour growth for 18 months. This is the first reported case of ONHM co-existing with thyroid eye disease and this association could be coincidental or embryological. This case highlights the need for ophthalmologists to be familiar with this benign condition and for regular careful follow-up of such patients.
Different Medicinal Treatment Modalities in the Management of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Paediatric Population- A Narrative Review of Available Drug Approaches
Authors: Desai Kushal , Taksande Amar
Published: May 2023

Regardless of the size of a patient’s Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), it is crucial for paediatric and adult cardiologists to have a thorough understanding of the condition’s origin, clinical ramifications, and treatment options. Possessing a PDA, no matter how little, might cause complications. Ibuprofen and indomethacin, both cyclo-oxygenase (COX) inhibitors, are used as the gold standard pharmacologic therapy for closing a PDA that has been produced surgically. These non selective COX inhibitors bring about ductal constriction, in addition to lowering the synthesis of prostaglandin. However, these drugs may also have a broad array of unintended consequences. Interest in paracetamol for PDA constriction has recently increased due to fewer adverse effects than indomethacin or ibuprofen. Evidence that paracetamol is now a topic of intense study lends credence to this hypothesis. Information on the long term effects of paracetamol is scarce in paediatric population.
Histological Effect of Ethanolic Extracts of Fruits of Acacia nilotica and Flowers of Calotropis procera on Aspirin Induced Stomach Ulcer in Male Albino Rats
Authors: Muhammad Zuhairah Ismail , Imo Chinedu , Arowora Kayode Adebisi , Shadrach Philip
Published: May 2023

Aim: This study examined the histological effect of ethanolic extracts of fruits of Acacia nilotica and flowers of Calotropis procera on aspirin-induced stomach ulcer in male albino rats. Acacia nilotica fruits and Calotropis procera flowers are among the plant parts which are used in the treatment of ulcers by local folks in Wukari, Nigeria.

Study Design: Seventy healthy male albino rats were used in this study; they were randomly distributed into 7 groups of 10 animals each. The test animals were induced with ulcer using 500 mg/kg body weight of aspirin and then treated with Acacia nilotica fruits and Calotropis procera flowers for 5 and 14 days respectively.

Methodology: This study was carried out in two phases: stomach ulcer was induced in test animals using aspirin and treated for a period of 5 days and 14 days using ethanolic extracts of fruits of Acacia nilotica and flowers of Calotropis procera before sacrifice. The stomach of the animals was harvested, processed for histological investigation and photomicrographs taken.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, Federal University Wukari, between August 2022 and January 2023.

Results: Photomicrograph of the gastric tissue of normal rats showed normal epithelial lining with mucosa and submucosa appearing unremarkable. Photomicrograph section of gastric tissue of rat administered aspirin only showed moderate ulceration of the epithelial lining. Photomicrograph of gastric tissues of rats administered both plant extracts showed moderate to severe ulcerations of the epithelial lining with unremarkable mucosa and submucosa.

Conclusion: The results of this study showed that treatment of stomach ulcer in albino rats caused by administration of excess dose of aspirin with ethanolic extracts of fruits of Acacia nilotica and flowers of Calotropis procera did not heal the stomach ulcer in the albino rats after 5 days and 14 days treatment.
Green Business/ Marketing: A Journey towards Ecofriendly and Sustainable Approaches?
Authors: Sirohi Aakash
Published: May 2023

During the last two decades, green and sustainable business models (GnSBMs) have become a popular topic of discussion among researchers, practitioners and policymakers. Preponderance of research and an expanding worldwide push to use GnSBMs need a full grasp of the state of research on GnSBMs. "Business should not be detrimental to society nor a parasite on society; rather, it should solely contribute positively to the well-being of society". As a result of this realization, sustainable business development has prompted a significant shift in the way that  developing nations extend their business goals to include consideration of the global ecosystem and human development in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This review focuses on the understanding o green business and marketing, history of green business models, practices of green business and various other aspects of green business.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Treatment of Autoimmune Encephalitis: A Case Report
Authors: Pathak Sangeeta , Dubey Ruchi , Singh Surjit , Chakroborthy Tamojit , Kaushik Satish
Published: May 2023

The present study highlights the Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in treatment of Autoimmune Encephalitis. Due to the similarities in the clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings of many forms of autoimmune and infectious encephalitis, autoimmune encephalitis is frequently a difficult clinical diagnosis. Diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis is based on the clinical course, serological evidence of autoimmunity, EEG changes, evidence of intrathecal inflammation in the cerebrospinal fluid and neuroimaging by MRI. In view of the suspected diagnosis of Autoimmune Encephalopathy with super refractory Status Epilepticus, Methylprednisolone was later added to the treatment. This case represents an interesting scenario of sero-negative encephalitis in which an early diagnosis could be made and treatment initiated in time.
Effect of PGR on Growth and Establishment of Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) cv. Thompson Seedless under Prayagraj Agro Climatic Condition
Authors: Puri Nitin , Mishra Saket , Bahadur Vijay , Prasad V. M.
Published: May 2023

Grapes (Vitis vinifera) is one of the important commercial subtropical crops, which is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is grown throughout the world except the places with extreme temperature and high altitude .So, to find out Effect of PGR on growth and establishment of grapes cv. Thompson Seedless under Prayagraj agro climatic condition; a field experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agriculture Institute, Sam higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Science, Prayagraj, U.P-211007 during the year 2022. The experiment comprised of 10 different treatment of three different plant growth regulator comprising of GA3, IAA and IBA with different concentration of 50 ppm, 100 ppm and 150 ppm; 100 ppm, 300 ppm and 500 ppm; 1000 ppm, 2000 ppm and 3000 ppm respectively. The main objective of the experiment was to evaluate the root and vegetative growth of grapevines with their success and survival in the Prayagraj agro-climatic zone. From the present investigation, treatment T9 (IBA @3000 ppm) was found best with least days to emerge from the bud from the grapes cutting (6.4 days) with maximum amount of sprouting percentage (77.7%). It also showed the best root growth parameters with maximum root length 25.1cm @120DAP and maximum number of roots per cutting 49.3 @120DAP. It also showed best vegetative growth parameters with maximum shoot length 13.4cm @120DAP, maximum stem diameter 28.1mm @120DAP, highest number of leaves with 12.5 @120 DAP, maximum leaf area 73.9cm2, maximum plant height after transplanting 14.9cm and highest survival percentage 88.8% of grapes plant. The T9 showed the best results with all major parameters when cuttings were treated with different concentrations of plant growth regulators.