bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vaccine Refusal and What to Do About It: a Systematic Review of the Ethical Literature
Authors: Wiley Kerrie , Christou-Ergos Maria , Degeling Chris , McDougall Rosalind , Robinson Penelope , Attwell Katie , Helps Catherine , Drislane Shevaun , Carter Stacy M
Published: February 2023

Background: Parental refusal of routine childhood vaccination remains an ethically contested area. This systematic review sought to explore and characterise the normative arguments made about parental refusal of routine vaccination, with the aim of providing researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with a synthesis of current normative literature.
Methods: Nine databases covering health and ethics research were searched, and 121 publications identified for the period Jan 1998 to Mar 2022. For articles, source journals were categorised according to Australian Standard Field of Research codes, and normative content was analysed using a framework analytical approach.
Results: Most of the articles were published in biomedical journals (34%), bioethics journals (21%), and journals that carry both classifications (20%). Two central questions dominated the literature: 1) Whether vaccine refusal is justifiable (which we labelled ‘refusal arguments’); and 2) Whether strategies for dealing with those who reject vaccines are justifiable (‘response arguments’). Refusal arguments relied on principlism, religious frameworks, the rights and obligations of parents, the rights of children, the medico-legal best interests of the child standard, and the potential to cause harm to others. Response arguments were broadly divided into arguments about policy, arguments about how individual physicians should practice regarding vaccine rejectors, and both legal precedents and ethical arguments for vaccinating children against a parent’s will. Policy arguments considered the normative significance of coercion, non-medical or conscientious objections, and possible reciprocal social efforts to offset vaccine refusal. Individual physician practice arguments covered nudging and coercive practices, patient dismissal, and the ethical and professional obligations of physicians. Most of the legal precedents discussed were from the American setting, with some from the United Kingdom.
Conclusions: This review provides a comprehensive picture of the scope and substance of normative arguments about vaccine refusal and responses to vaccine refusal. It can serve as a platform for future research to extend the current normative literature, better understand the role of cultural context in normative judgements about vaccination, and more comprehensively translate the nuance of ethical arguments into practice and policy.
Tool wear prediction model based on wear influence factor
Authors: Yang Cheng , Shi Yaoyao , Xin Hongmin , Zhao Tao , Zhang Nan , Xian Chao
Published: February 2023

This study proposed a new method for predicting tool wear curve over machining time through abscissa stretching or compressing based on wear influence factor. In this method, firstly, the relationship model between the tool wear rate and the cutting parameters needs to be built, and the wear influence factor can be derived from this relationship model. Then, it needs to record the curve of the tool wear value over machining time under a certain cutting parameters through experiments. This curve is called the benchmark tool wear curve, and the wear influence factor under this cutting parameters is called the benchmark wear influence factor. When the cutting parameters change, it is only required to solve the ratio between the wear influence factor under current cutting parameters and the benchmark wear influence factor, then use the ratio to stretch or compress the benchmark tool wear curve in the direction of the abscissa, that is the tool wear prediction curve under current cutting parameters.
Fabrication and characterization of cellulose acetate film containing falcaria vulgaris extract
Authors: Hassanloofard Zeinab , Gharekhani Mehdi , Zandi Mohsen , Ganjloo Ali , Roufegarinejad Leila
Published: February 2023

Nowadays, the use of packaging materials based on natural polymers reduces the use of synthetic materials that cause environmental pollution. For this reason, in the present study, the possibility of preparing biodegradable films from cellulose acetate incorporated with Falcaria vulgaris extract was investigated. Cellulose acetate films were produced by casting method and Falcaria vulgaris extract was added in concentrations of 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3%. Mechanical properties, permeability to water vapor and oxygen, solubility, color, opacity, contact angle, morphology, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of cellulose acetate films were evaluated. The results showed that the tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, vapor permeability, water absorption, solubility, swelling percentage and percentage of water content of the resulting films decreased with the increase of Falcaria vulgaris extract concentration. The contact angle percentage of cellulose acetate film and cellulose acetate film with 0.3% extract were 59.32 ± 0.97, 65.47 ± 1.16, respectively. Cellulose acetate films containing Falcaria vulgaris extract showed good antioxidant properties, namely the amount of DPPH radical trapping of cellulose acetate film with 0.3% extract equals 35.31% compared to cellulose acetate film (0.15%), which showed a significant increase. Furthermore, the produced films showed good antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. In general, this study showed that cellulose acetate film containing extract could be used for food packaging that increasing the shelf life of food.
A Study on the Willingness of Hotel Consumers to Pro-environment Behavior from the Perspective of Green Management
Authors: Liu Ting
Published: February 2023

According to the existing hotel green management system and environmental protection behavior intention scale, the green management system is divided into four parts: green system, green facilities, green products, and green services. After building the model between hotel green management and consumer environmental protection behavior intention, through the field investigation of Empark Grand hotel data and the use of SmartPLS software analysis, the following results are obtained: First, in the hotel green management, consumers have the strongest perception of green policy formulation and the weakest perception of green service. Secondly, all four aspects of the green management system have a significant impact on the willingness of consumers to behave in a pro-environment manner.
UK cost-effectiveness analysis of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty versus lifestyle modification alone for adults with class II obesity.
Authors: Kelly Jamie , Menon Vinod , O'Neill Frank , Elliot Laura , Combe Emily , Drinkwater Will , Abbott Sally , Hayee Bu'Hussain
Published: February 2023

Conclusion Our study indicates that ESG is highly cost effective versus LM alone for the treatment of adults with class II obesity in England.
Background Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive procedure that has been demonstrated in the MERIT randomised, controlled trial to result in substantial and durable additional weight loss in adults with obesity compared with lifestyle modification (LM) alone. We sought to conduct the first cost-effectiveness of ESG versus LM alone in adults with class II obesity (BMI 35.0-39.9 kg/m2) from a national healthcare system perspective in England based on results from this study.
Methods A 6-state Markov model was developed comprising 5 BMI-based health states and an absorbing death state. Baseline characteristics, utilities, and transition probabilities were informed by patient-level data from the subset of patients with class II obesity in MERIT. Adverse events (AEs) were based on the MERIT safety population. Mortality was estimated by applying BMI-specific hazard ratios from the published literature to UK general population mortality rates. Utilities for the healthy weight and overweight health states were informed from the literature; disutility associated with increasing BMI in the class I-III obesity health states was estimated using MERIT utility data. Disutility due to AEs and the prevalence of obesity-related comorbidities were based on the literature. Costs included intervention costs, AE costs, and comorbidity costs.
Results ESG resulted in higher overall costs than LM alone but led to an increase in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for ESG vs LM alone was £2453/QALY gained. ESG was consistently cost effective across a wide range of sensitivity analyses, with no ICER estimate exceeding £10 000/QALY gained. In probabilistic sensitivity analysis, the mean ICER was £2502/QALY gained and ESG remained cost effective in 98.25% of iterations at a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20 000/QALY.
How do protected areas contribute to human well-being? Multiple mechanisms perceived by stakeholders
Authors: Zorondo-Rodriguez Francisco , Rodriguez-Gomez Gloria , Fuenzalida Loreto F , Mendoza Kattia , Diaz Maria Jesus , Cornejo Marco , Llanos-Ascencio José , Campos Fernando , Zamorano Jorge , Flores Diego , Louit Carla , Martinez Paula , Varas Katerina , Vargas Renzo
Published: February 2023

Biodiversity conservation contributes to satisfy the human well-being. Particularly, protected areas reshape the ways in which people interact with ecosystems and each other, producing changes in the opportunities they have to satisfy the different dimensions of their well-being. The pathways linking human well-being and protected areas could be understood as one or more causal mechanisms, which can be structured through nature’s contributions to people -or ecosystem services- (NCP). A semi-structured interview captured the perceptions of stakeholders of four Chilean protected areas to identify the multiple mechanisms regarding how protected areas and well-being are related. Stakeholders expressed a diversity of NCP from protected areas, including material, non-material, and regulating NCP. The frequencies of mentions of the categories of NCP varied significantly among protected areas. The reported NCP varied among stakeholders from different institutions. The stakeholders’ narratives suggested that protected areas satisfy several dimensions of human well-being, which varied across protected areas. Protected areas were declared as contributing to several dimensions of human well-being, not only economically. The narratives showed co-occurrences of the satisfaction of dimensions of human well-being and NCP or activities from protected areas. Narratives suggested a set of multiple mechanisms between protected areas and human well-being at local level. This study emphasizes the need to design adaptive management plans of protected areas based on multiple mechanisms linking biodiversity protection and human well-being. Also, our results could facilitate the alignment of biodiversity conservation and community development agendas.
Migraine Frequency and Duration Among Medical Students Before Matriculation Versus After Matriculation: A Cross-Sectional Survey Design
Authors: Reddy Amsha
Published: February 2023

Background: Migraine is often associated with triggers such as stress, poor sleep, and poor hydration, each of which are common among medical students. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and duration of migraine in medical students following matriculation into medical school.
Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional survey design conducted on 720 students enrolled at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM) in Dothan, Alabama for the 2022-2023 academic year. 78 participants were included in the study. Data was collected from participants’ self-reporting answers to each survey item and analyzed using two factor ANOVA, paired two sample t-test, and Chi-square test of independence.
Results: 78 participants enrolled at ACOM aged 18 – 40 years old were included in the study. Participants demonstrated increased duration of migraine (p value = .03), increased water consumption (p value = .008), and increased perceived stress post-matriculation (p value < .001). Increased migraine post-matriculation was not found to be associated with the increase in perceived stress. Migraine frequency did not increase post-matriculation. However, participants who reported less hours of sleep were more likely to have increased frequency of migraine post-matriculation (p = .0067). Female participants were more likely to have increased frequency (p = .0015) and duration (p = .0025) of migraine post-matriculation. Participants with family history of migraine were also more likely to have increased frequency (p = .046) and duration (p = .0098) of migraine post-matriculation.
Conclusions: This study revealed increased duration of migraine among medical students following matriculation into medical school.
Risk-dominant equilibrium in chicken and stag-hunt games with different dilemma strengths
Authors: Elgazzar Ahmed S.
Published: February 2023

Theoretical games, as well as many systems of industrial organization and international trade, often have multiple equilibria. The choice of a unique equilibrium is crucial in such cases. We study the risk-dominant equilibrium in chicken and staghunt games and examine the influence of the strength of both risk-averting and gamble-intending dilemmas. Conditions under which the risk-dominant equilibrium is mutual cooperation are derived for both games. It is shown that the risk-dominant equilibrium depends on the strength of both risk-averting and gamble-intending dilemmas. Applications to models of the Iran-Iraq conflict over shared oil and gas resources are given and appropriate solutions are proposed.
The management of incidental appendiceal mucinous neoplasm encountered during appendectomy: a single center experience
Authors: Wang Chong , Xue Shilin , An Lubiao , Yin Xiangyang , Zheng Longtao , Fan Xiwen , Zhang Pu , Ma Ruiqing
Published: February 2023

Purpose
The management of incidental appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (IAMN) was confusing with difficult decision-making. This study was to investigate the association of variables from the initial operation to cytoreductive surgery with overall survival.
Methods
One hundred and thirty patients of IAMN treated at Aerospace Center Hospital were retrospectively analyzed from January 2014 to December 2020. A total of 82 IAMN patients who underwent reoperation with cytoreductive surgery (CRS ) and had available data on the date of their initial operation was included.
Results
Of these 82 IAMN patients, the mean time from the initial operation to CRS was 19 months (1-146 months). The 5-year OS rate was 69.8%, and the median OS was 39 months (1–73 months). The patients who underwent CRS within six months had a higher radical rate (63.3% vs. 36.7%) with lower tumor burden and better survival. No significant difference was found in patients with right hemicolectomy or prior systemic chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis identified the completeness of cytoreduction score and the pathologic subtype of peritoneal pseudomyxoma (PMP) as independent prognostic factors.
Conclusion
Extended surgery and systematic chemotherapy are not suitable for IAMN patients. It is more important to identify the pathology and accept standard therapy in academic medical centers within 6 months.
Examining parent-of-origin effects on transcription and RNA methylation in mediating aggressive behavior in honey bees (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Bresnahan Sean T. , Lee Ellen , Clark Lindsay , Ma Rong , Rangel Juliana , Grozinger Christina M. , Li-Byarlay Hongmei
Published: February 2023

Conflict between genes inherited from the mother (matrigenes) and the father (patrigenes) is predicted to arise during social interactions among offspring if these genes are not evenly distributed among offspring genotypes. This intragenomic conflict drives parent-specific transcription patterns in offspring resulting from parent-specific epigenetic modifications. Previous tests of the kinship theory of intragenomic conflict in honey bees (Apis mellifera) provided evidence in support of theoretical predictions for variation in worker reproduction, which is associated with extreme variation in morphology and behavior. However, more subtle behaviors – such as aggression – have not been extensively studied. Additionally, the canonical epigenetic mark (DNA methylation) associated with parent-specific transcription in plant and mammalian model species does not appear to play the same role as in honey bees, and thus the molecular mechanisms underlying intragenomic conflict in this species is an open area of investigation. Here, we examined the role of intragenomic conflict in shaping aggression in honey bee workers through a reciprocal cross design and Oxford Nanopore direct RNA sequencing. We attempted to probe the underlying regulatory basis of this conflict through analyses of parent-specific RNA m6A and alternative splicing patterns. We report evidence that intragenomic conflict occurs in the context of honey bee aggression, with increased paternal and maternal allele-biased transcription in aggressive compared to non-aggressive bees, and higher paternal allele-biased transcription overall. However, we found no evidence to suggest that RNA m6A or alternative splicing mediate intragenomic conflict in this species.
HIV and hepatitis C risk among Tajik migrant workers who inject drugs in Moscow
Authors: Mackesy-Amiti Mary Ellen , Levy Judith A. , Bahromov Mahbatsho , Jonbekov Jonbek , Luc Casey M.
Published: February 2023

Background. The HIV epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia continues to grow with most infections occurring in high-risk groups including people who inject drugs and their sexual partners. Labor migrants from this region who inject drugs while in Russia are at especially high HIV risk.
Methods. We recruited 420 male Tajik migrant workers who inject drugs in Moscow for a peer-education HIV prevention intervention trial. Participants were interviewed about their sex and drug use behavior and tested for HIV and hepatitis C prior to the intervention.
Results. Over half of the men reported injecting with a previously used syringe in the past month. Many men reported condomless sex (42%), multiple sex partners (30%), and sex with sex workers (42%). Only 17% had ever been tested for HIV. Despite substantial risk behavior, prevalence rates of HIV (6.8%) and HCV (2.9%) although elevated were lower than expected when compared to estimates of prevalence among PWID at the national level in Tajikistan. Risk behavior in diaspora varied across the men’s regional area of origin in Tajikistan and occupation in Moscow with HIV prevalence rates highest among those working at the bazaars.
Conclusion. Tajik male migrants who inject drugs in Moscow are at heightened risk for HIV and hepatitis C. Evidence-based prevention approaches and messaging that specifically address the drug- and sex-related risk behavior of migrants from different parts of Tajikistan, employment sectors within the destination city, and socio-demographic background are needed.
Assessing the population’s correct knowledge of malaria in Malaysia. A vital component for malaria elimination certification
Authors: Rahim Faizul Akmal Abdul , Ya Mohd Farihan Md , Mutalip Mohd Hatta Abdul , Mahmud Mohd Amierul Fikri
Published: February 2023

Background: Malaria remains a public health problem in Malaysia despite a decline in the number of cases in recent years. Public knowledge of malaria is essential to achieving and maintaining malaria elimination. Therefore, this survey assessed the prevalence of people who had ever heard of malaria, had correct knowledge of malaria transmission, symptoms, risk activities, and prevention measures in the Malaysian population, and identified the associated factors involved.
Methods: The data were obtained from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) which was conducted from September to October 2020. A cross-sectional survey with five structured questionnaires using the method of computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI) was used to collect data. The socio-demographic characteristics such as age, gender, ethnicity, nationality, marital status, educational level, and occupation were recorded. Data were analyzed using STATA SE Version 16. Associations between variables were tested using chi-square and logistic regression, with the level of statistical significance set at p<0.05.
Results: Out of 3085 respondents who participated in this survey, 2491 had ever heard of malaria with a prevalence of 76.1% (95% CI: 70.51, 80.94). The prevalence of correct knowledge of malaria transmission was 53.9% (95% CI: 50.16, 57.69), symptoms 24.1% (95% CI: 21.18, 27.23), risk activities 34.0 % (95% CI: 29.26, 39.07) and prevention measures 59.7% (95% CI: 55.47, 63.70). Multivariate analysis showed that age, ethnicity, and educational level were significantly associated with correct malaria transmission and risk activities. In addition, age, educational level, and occupation were significantly associated with correct malaria symptoms. Subsequently, only the variable ethnicity showed a significant association with the correct malaria prevention measures.
Conclusion: In general, the prevalence of ever heard of malaria was considered high since the survey was performed based on a non-specific malaria population. However, the prevalence of correct knowledge of malaria symptoms and risk activities were considered low. It is concluded that educational level is one of the major factors associated with correct malaria knowledge, along with age, ethnicity, and occupation. Therefore, based on these findings, targeted intervention and innovation should be planned by malaria program managers to sustain malaria elimination in Malaysia.
Patterns in the sequential treatment of rheumatoid arthritis patients starting a b/tsDMARD: 10-year experience from a US-based registry
Authors: Matsson Anton , Solomon Daniel H. , Crabtree Margaux M. , Harrison Ryan W. , Litman Heather J. , Johansson Fredrik D.
Published: February 2023

Objectives
Developing and evaluating new treatment guidelines for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on observational data requires a quantitative understanding of patterns in current treatment practice with biologic and targeted synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs).
Methods
We used data from the CorEvitas RA registry to study patients starting their first b/tsDMARD therapy—defined as the first line of therapy—between 2012 and the end of 2021. We identified treatment patterns as unique sequences of therapy changes following and including the first-line therapy. Therapy cycling was defined as switching back to a treatment from a previously used therapeutic class.
Results
6,015 b/tsDMARD-naïve patients (77% female) were included in the analysis. Their median age was 58 years, and their median disease duration was 3 years. In 2012–2014, 80% of the patients started a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) as their first b/tsDMARD. However, the use of TNFi decreased in favour of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) since 2015. While the number of treatment patterns was large, therapy cycling was relatively common. For example, 601 patterns were observed among 1133 patients who changed therapy at least four times, of whom 85.3% experienced therapy cycling. Furthermore, the duration of each of the first three lines of therapy decreased over the past decade.
Conclusion
First-line therapy was almost always TNFi, but diversity in treatment choice was high after that. This practice variation allows for proposing and evaluating new guidelines for sequential treatment of RA. It also presents statistical challenges to compare subjects with different treatment sequences.
Experimental Investigation of Curved and Straight Laminated Bamboo-Concrete Beams with New Calibration Method for Interface Slip
Authors: Deng Yu , Hao Yuxi , Mohamed Ahmed , Wong Simon H F , Tang Yunchao , Yuen Terry Y.P. , Sukontasukkul Piti , Shen Minhe , Fernando Nirodha , Saint Ruth , Zhang Hexin
Published: February 2023

This study echoes the rising demand for bio-based material in concrete composite structures in the race to accelerate carbon neutrality in construction. Noticing that most previous studies are focused on straight timber or engineered bamboo-to-concrete composite beams, this study focuses on: 1) developing unique and practical curved laminated bamboo-concrete (LBC) composite beams; 2) experimentally investigating and comparing the structural performances of the curved and straight LBC composite beams; 3) developing a novel and proper in-member interface shear slip calibration method that captures the longitudinal after-slip strain redistribution, validated by stain gauge measurements. This study also highlights the interlayer shear bonding strength of laminated bamboo as the thresholding parameter that determines the composite beams' overall flexural strength, evidenced by detailed failure mode analysis. The proposed interface shear slip calibration method can be extended to the other types of shear connectors such as screws, shear plates, etc.
In silico analysis of highly disordered human IRS1 protein 3D structure to uncover new target for Metformin to ameliorate diabetes
Authors: Singh Ritika Kumari , Kumar Arvind
Published: February 2023

IRSs are cytoplasmic-skeleton proteins. It facilitates RTK signaling through insulin/IGF-1, insulin receptor, and Src-homology-2-domains. IRS1 is a cytoplasmic adaptor protein that helps in cellular growth, glucose metabolism, proliferation, and differentiation. IRS1 is a disordered protein with a hard-to-predict active site. Here we used the ab-initiomodeling tool I-Tasser and Discovery studio/DogSite server to model and determine the active site of IRS1 human protein (mol. wt. 131590.97Da) respectively. Newly designed protein model submitted with PMDB Id–PM0082210. GRAVY index of IRS1 (-0.675) indicated surface protein-water interaction. Protparam tool instability index (75.22) demonstrated disorderedness combined with loops owing to prolines/glycines. After refinement Ramachandran plot showed that 88 percent of AAs were present in the allowed region. Novel mode protein has beta-sheet, loops, and beta-hairpin but fewer helixes. Overall IRS1 has 10-α-helices, 22-β-sheets, 20-β-hairpins, 5-β-bulges, 47-strands, 105-β-turns and 8-γ-turns. Docking studies suggest that MH binds with the novel active site of IRS1 to increase insulin signaling to target and cure the T2DM target molecule. MD-simulations have been done to reveal the protein–ligand complex stability and robustness. The discovered MH’s target site to cure T2DM, a worldwide problem could be further authenticated by in vitro and in vivo experiments to determine the efficiency of metformin hydrochloride to cure this worldwide disease.
Social media as a campaign tool against online gender-based violence in South Africa
Authors: Sundani Ndivhuwo , Mangaka Amukelani Collen , Mamokhere John
Published: February 2023

The object of this research is: to explore the correlation between social media as a campaign tool against online gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa.

The researchers investigated the following problem: Over the past decade, there have been several prominent incidents of harassment and stalking in South Africa. The issue of GBV against women in South Africa is prevalent in mainstream and online social media. Thus, women and girls are targeted in what is seemingly becoming a prolonged cycle of GBV in the country. The Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020 was found to be a relevant legal framework in South Africa for responding to online GBV. Thus, the study was underpinned by social exchange and the spiral of silence theories.

Methods and Materials: In this non-empirical study, a systematic review was employed. Social media as a campaign tool against online gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa was qualitatively studied. For the data collection process, the most recent repositories such as journal articles, books, reports, conference papers, dissertations and organizations’ websites were gathered and systematically reviewed from July 2022 to November 2022. However, thematic analysis was used with due care to analyze data for the study. The NVivo software was used to identify common, repetitive and different themes.

The main results of the research are: As a result of the study's findings, there have been an increasing number of social media campaigns on sites such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter used by women all over the world to help combat the scourge of GBV. In this regard, women are using social media platforms to cry out for help and band together to fight a common enemy that violates their human rights and bodily integrity through social injustice.

The area of practical use of the research is for: This study is pivotal since it aimed at proposing intervention strategies to combat online GBV in South Africa. Most importantly, the outcome of this study will help in the development of more policy roadmaps for the successful combat of online GBV in South Africa and across the world. In a nutshell, the study recommends that law enforcement agencies, policymakers and civil society, among others, put in place additional frameworks to curb online GBV in South Africa.
Innovative technologies for the processing of raw materials of plant origin to improve the quality of food supply of the troops
Authors: Riabchykov Mykola , Tsykhanovska Iryna , Tovma Lidiia , Aleksandrov Oleksandr , Kovylev Denis , Rikunov Oleh , Smahin Oleh , Orlov Kostiantyn
Published: February 2023

The object of research: morphological and cultural characteristics of micromycetes: yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and mycelial fungi Mucorracemosus grown on agar medium.The subject of research: flax seed suspension, ultrafine powder of double oxide of divalent and trivalent ferrum, micromycetes: yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and mycelial fungi MucorracemosusInvestigated problem: ensuring the bacteriostatic properties of raw materials and obtaining products with an extended dates of expiry.The subject in scientific results: the impact of nanoparticles (NP FeO×Fe2O3) on the bacteriostatic (protective) properties of flax seeds against fungal infections has been studied and the dependence of bacteriostatic properties on the amount of nanomagnetite has been determined. The ability of nanomagnetite to improve the bacteriostatic properties of flax seeds has been proven: addition of 0.1 %; 0.15 %; 0.2 % of nanomagnetite suppresses the development of microflora (micromycetes) in flax seed samples by 8–20 times. A reduction in the number of micromycetes (yeast Saccharomycescerevisiae and mycelial fungi Mucorracemosus) by 8–10 times and the size by 10–20 times was established compared to the control.

The rational content of nanoparticles (NPs FeO×Fe2O3–nanomagnetite) has been determined as 0.15 % of the weight of the recipe mixture.

The proposed mathematical model makes it possible to predict the effectiveness of using NP FeO×Fe2O3 – nanomagnetite to inhibit the growth of mycelial fungi to ensure the bacteriostatic properties of raw materials, in particular, flax seeds.

The area of practical use of the research results: food industry enterprises specializing in the production of bakery and flour confectionery products using a mixture of wheat and rye flour with the addition of food additives. Innovative technological product: flour raw material with a mineral nano-additive suspension based on the double oxide of divalent and trivalent ferrum, which allows to ensure quality and extend dates of expiry of the product. Scope of the innovative technological product: to enhance the quality of food supply of the troops in extreme conditions
Optimization of the composition of cast iron for cast parts operating under abrasive friction, according to the criterion of maximum wear resistance
Authors: Barsuk Andriy
Published: February 2023

The object of research: Titanium-alloyed hypoeutectic iron for mixer blades operating under abrasive friction conditions.

Investigated problem: selection of the optimal titanium content in the alloy according to the criterion of the maximum wear resistance coefficient.

The main scientific results: the content of titanium in cast iron was determined, which provides the maximum wear resistance coefficient with various compositions of the base alloy. It has been established that with the same titanium content, the highest value of the wear resistance coefficient depends on the carbon content and the position of the eutectic point on the Fe-C state diagram. In the studied range, the highest values of the wear resistance coefficient correspond to the average range of variation of these factors. This allows to say that the effect of carbon content and the position of the eutectic point doubly affect wear resistance at the same titanium content, and there is a range of titanium content in which the effect of these factors on the wear resistance value becomes the same.

The area of practical use of the results of the study: the results obtained can be used by designers of industrial enterprises choosing materials for the manufacture of machine parts subject to intense friction due to operating conditions. The wear caused by this friction leads to the failure of the blades, so the designer's task is to choose the one that maximizes the durability of the blades.

Innovative technological product: wear-resistant hypoeutectic cast iron alloyed with titanium for cast parts operating in conditions of intense abrasive friction

The scope of the technological innovative product: mixing plants of various types, mainly used in road construction, construction and agriculture.
A comparative study of unilateral vs bilateral spinal anaesthesia using hyperbaric bupivacaine with buprenorphine in unilateral inguinal hernia surgery
Authors: Priyadarshini Nanda Anupama , Suman Gadalay , Sravya Thoyyeti
Published: February 2023

Unilateral spinal anaesthesia can be used for inguinal hernia surgery. The advantage is that it provides a stronger block on the side of surgery and accelerated recovery of the nerve block, with better maintenance of cardiovascular stability. Hence it can be a valuable technique for high-risk patients.

The aim: This randomized controlled trial was designed to evaluate the onset and duration of Sensory and motor block in both unilateral and bilateral spinal anaesthesia and the adverse effects of buprenorphine given intrathecally with 0.5 % bupivacaine for Spinal anaesthesia in patients scheduled for unilateral inguinal hernia surgery.

Materials and methods: it is a сomparative two group randomized clinical study with 60 patients with 30 patients in Group U (UNILATERAL) and 30 patients in Group B (BILATERAL) is undertaken to study the changes in haemodynamics and side effects. Whereas, within the group (for the unilateral group) comparison of the time taken to reach L1, T12, T10 and the Bromage time between the surgical side and non-surgical side sides of surgery was done.

Results: T10 -T12 spinal anaesthesia was achieved in both groups; the average time to anaesthetic onset in the unilateral group was 5.27±1.2 min, and in the bilateral, it was 5.90±1.02 min (p-value=0.32). Sensory and motor block lasted longer in the bilateral group when compared to the unilateral group; the incidence of side effects was limited to the occurrence of hypotension and bradycardia in the unilateral group than in the bilateral group. The success rate of unilateral spinal anaesthesia in our study was 100 %.

Conclusion: Because of haemodynamic stability and faster recovery characteristics of unilateral spinal block, it can be used as a suitable technique in patients with a limited cardiovascular reserve and for outpatient anaesthesia.
Determination of the relationship of visphatin and homocysteine levels with indicators of glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism in peri- and postmenopause women with type 2 diabetes mellitus and osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhuravlyova Larysa , Cherpita Valentyna
Published: February 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), among other modern diseases, certainly occupies a leading position today. Moreover, the comorbid combination of T2DM and osteoarthritis (OA) is a common example of the development of complications, disability and mortality these days. As you know, T2DM develops against the background of obesity and overweight. A significant group of patients prone to these pathologies are peri- and postmenopausal women. Estrogen deficiency during this period worsens the course of these interdependent conditions. Therefore, searching for ways of early diagnosis of OA in women with T2DM is an urgent task of internal medicine.

Purpose. To determine the interdependencies of indicators of glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism with levels of visfatin (VF) and homocysteine (HC) in women with T2DM and OA in peri- and postmenopause.

Methods. For the study, 120 thematic women in peri- and postmenopause were selected and were divided into three groups: 1st (n=20) - women with a mono-course of T2DM; 2nd (n=20) – with a mono-course of OA; 3rd (n=64) – with the comorbid course of T2DM and OA. The control group (CG) consisted of 16 relatively healthy women of the appropriate age. Diagnoses of T2DM and OA were established in accordance with the current Orders of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. Laboratory diagnostic methods were performed according to standard methods.

The results. According to the obtained results, the presence of interdependencies of all indicators of lipid metabolism and glucose-insulin metabolism was reliably determined, which indicated direct correlations (mostly of moderate strength) with the levels of HC and VF in the blood of the examinees, most pronounced in the comorbid combination of T2DM and OA in peri- and postmenopause.

Conclusions. In work, an analysis of the correlations of indicators of glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism with disturbances in the metabolism of VF and HC in women with T2DM and OA in pre- and postmenopause was carried out, and their interdependent relationships were determined. The highest levels of VF and HC were recorded in the group of women with comorbid pathology of T2DM and OA.
Effect of a Monensin Slow-release Capsule at Dry-off on Ketolactia and Milk Yield in Holstein Cows
Authors: Melendez Pedro , Donovan Art
Published: February 2023

This study evaluated the effect of a monensin slow-release capsule (Rumensin®) given at dry-off on levels of b-hydroxy butyrate in milk at 14 days post-partum and daily milk yield up to 20 days post-partum on Holstein dairy cows.
Three-Dimensional Animated Model of Abomasal Displacement and Volvulus
Authors: Desrochers André , Harvey Denis , Roy Félix
Published: February 2023

Displacement and volvulus of the abomasum is commonly seen by every bovine practitioner working in a dairy practice. Understanding the anatomy and position of the abomasum is now second nature for people with experience. Veterinarians have to remember their old days in the classroom when the teacher was trying to explain how the abomasum was moving around in the abdomen. It takes a lot of experiences, sometimes acquired the hard way, to understand the topography of abomasal displacement or volvulus. Three-dimensional (3-D) modelization and animation have been used in movies and videogames for a while. Recently, the advances of software and computer capacity have enabled more complex animation with non-geometrical form, like organs of living species. The resulting computer-generated images have progressed so significantly that they are not easily distinguished from reality. Three-dimensional (3-D) modelization and animation is a useful tool to explain complex phenomena, and abomasal volvulus is one of them. Our goal was to create a 3-D model of abomasal displacement and volvulus as a teaching tool for veterinary students.
Impact of Two Coliform Mastitis Vaccination Schedules on Milk Yield, Dry Matter Feed Intake and Intramammary Infections of Holstein Dairy Cattle
Authors: Petersson Christina S. , Leslie Ken E. , Kelton David F. , Mallard Bonnie A.
Published: February 2023

Although coliform mastitis vaccine programs are widely implemented and relatively successful, several questions remain unanswered regarding proper administration schedule. In a comparison of two vaccination protocols, effects on dry matter feed intake (DMI), daily milk production and milk bacteriological status of fresh cows were analyzed.
Dairy Cattle Behavior
Authors: Anderson Neil
Published: February 2023

For economic and humane reasons, dairy producers are looking for facilities and management practices that contribute to cow health and productivity. The mis-matching of housing features or husbandry with a cow's needs contributes to abnormal, unwanted, or injurious behavior. Behavior is one of the several measures of cow welfare. Others are body condition, health, shelter, feed and water, weight gain or milk production, feelings and freedoms.
Using the Veterinary Antimicrobial Decision Support (VADS) System to Evaluate Therapeutic Regimens
Authors: Apley Mike
Published: February 2023

The goal of the Veterinary Antimicrobial Decision Support (VADS) System is to support the veterinary profession in preserving the efficacy of antimicrobials for therapeutic use in animals and humans. Enabling the practicing veterinarian to efficiently access and utilize currently available information when making anti-microbial use decisions is a critical component in the judicious use of antimicrobials in food animals.
Zoonotic Diseases
Authors: Prater Phil
Published: February 2023

Many potential bioterrorism agents are zoonotic. In some diseases, clinical signs may manifest in animals prior to humans. Livestock are present in high numbers in certain areas of the country, and can serve as sentinels for zoonotic diseases. Many areas depend on livestock for their livelihood and this puts them at risk for bio-terrorism or agro terrorism. Wildlife also play an important role in our communities because they could potentially contaminate large areas. They could be important sources of infection, for humans and animals.

Some factors that promote zoonotic disease transmission include frequent contact with domestic or wild animals, people living or visiting in areas that overlap with wildlife habitats or intensive livestock production. Other factors such as poor animal sanitation, poor animal health, and poor personal hygiene can also promote transmission.
Sharpening a Knife
Authors: Griffin Dee
Published: February 2023

This article presents key points to sharpening a knife. It provides information on metal differences, sharpening abrasives, blade shapes, cutting edge angles, determining when a cutting edge is sharp, finishing and testing the cutting edge, proper use of a steel to maintain the cutting edge, proper use of a steel to maintain the cutting edge, and knife safety. Other topics included are manual and motorized sharpening systems, and how to build a knife sharpener. Diagrams illustrating the key points and sources for supplies are provided in each segment.
Ceftiofur Crystalline Free Acid Sterile Suspension (CCFA-SS) in Cattle
Authors: Brown Scott A. , Lehman Fred , Lucas Merlyn J. , Robinson Joseph A. , Robb Edward J.
Published: February 2023

Ceftiofur, a time-dependent, bactericidal antibiotic active against bovine respiratory disease pathogens, is effective when the concentrations remain above the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for at least 3-5 days. A new product, CCFA-SS, is a prolonged release formulation of ceftiofur, intended to provide single dose efficacy in cattle. It is administered subcutaneously (SC) in the ear, eliminating any injection in edible tissue. The objective of this study was to generate plasma ceftiofur concentration data following administration of CCFA-SS SC in the middle third of the posterior aspect of the ear.
Likelihood Ratios for Multiple Levels of ELISA S/P Ratios in Dairy Herds Infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP)
Authors: Naugle Larew , Saville W. , Shulaw W. , Wittum T. , Brownlee I. , Love B. , Byrum B.
Published: February 2023

Several researchers have advocated the quantitative evaluation of ELISA SIP ratios rather than relying on a single cutoff value to classify test results. Here, we present likelihood ratios that evaluate the risk of MAP infection for multiple levels of ELISA SIP ratios for cows originating from MAP-infected dairy herds.
Comparison of Management Practices Between Ohio Dairy Herds Involved in Johne's Disease Testing Programs Versus Herds Not Involved in a Testing Program
Authors: Naugle Larew , Saville W. , Shulaw W. , Wittum T. , Love B. , Dodaro S. , McPhail I.
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this survey was to compare the adoption of management practices recommended for Johne's disease control between herds involved in whole-herd testing programs versus those that do not routinely test for Johne's disease. Eight hundred-ten Ohio dairy herds were selected to participate in a mail survey, and a total of 266 questionnaires were returned (32.8% response rate).
Evaluation of Dry Cow Vaccination with a Killed Viral Vaccine on Post-colostral Antibody Titers in Calves
Authors: Osterstock Jason B. , Callan Robert J. , Van Metre David C.
Published: February 2023

The administration of a vaccine shortly prior to parturition is believed to increase the titers of the cows at the time of calving, and potentially increase the amount of antibody available for passage to the calf via colostrum. The objective of this study was to evaluate the response of postcolostral agent specific titers in calves whose dams received a killed viral vaccine at dry-off.
Luteal Function and Conception in Lactating Cows and Some Factors Affecting Luteal Function after Insemination
Authors: Hommeida A. , Nakao T. , Kubota H.
Published: February 2023

Reduced steroidogenic capacity of the corpus luteum (CL) during early luteal phase has been reported to cause decreased fertility in cows. Higher concentrations of progesterone were observed in pregnant cows 5-10 days after artificial insemination (AI) compared to non-pregnant cows. However, the extent to which luteal sub-function affects fertility in high producing dairy cows is not clear. The present study, therefore, was undertaken to: 1) investigate the type and incidence of luteal sub-function after insemination; 2) to study the relationship between post-insemination luteal sub-function and conception rate; and 3) clarify the relationship of luteal function with parity, body condition score, milk yield and dietary intake.
Diagnosis of Subclinical Endometritis and its Effect on Reproductive Performance
Authors: Raab D. , Drillich M. , Heuwieser W.
Published: February 2023

Chronic endometritis is a common disorder in postpartum dairy cows. It causes depressed reproductive performance in the current lactation and economic losses. In practice, rectal palpation and/or vaginoscopy are popular methods for the diagnosis of endometritis. The objective of this study was to evaluate a cytological method (cytobrush) as a diagnostic tool to detect subclinical endometritis (SE) in dairy cows and to quantify its effect on reproductive performance.
J-5 Bacterin Protection Against Escherichia coli Intramammary Challenge and Association with Milk and Blood Levels of J-5- specific Antibodies
Authors: Wilson David J. , Mallard Bonnie A. , Burton Jeanne L. , Schukken Ynte H.
Published: February 2023

This was an Eschericia coli intramammary infusion challenge trial evaluating a J-5 coliform mastitis commercial vaccine. Antibodies specific for J-5 strain of E. coli (IgGl, IgG2 and lgM) were measured in cows' milk and blood in response to vaccination and in response to IMM challenge with E. coli. Several outcome measures of mastitis severity and milk production response were compared among vaccinates and controls.