Balanced Management Research Articles

Achievement of fluid removal targets during intermittent renal replacement therapy in the intensive care unit

ABSTRACT Background In patients with acute kidney injury (AKI), fluid balance management often relies on the prescription and achievement of fluid removal using intermittent renal replacement therapy (IRRT). This study aimed to describe characteristics associated with the failure to achieve target fluid removal (FATFR). Methods This is a retrospective cohort study including IRRT sessions of conventional duration (<5 hours) performed for AKI in the intensive care unit (ICU) from 2017 to 2022 at a tertiary academic center. FATFR-50% was defined as fluid removal of <50% of the prescribed target. Characteristics of patients and sessions, as well as outcomes at 90 days were collected. The causes of FATFR were manually adjudicated. Results A total of 291 patients and 1280 IRRT sessions in the ICU were included. FATFR-50% occurred in 7.3% of sessions and 19.2% of patients had at least one session with FATFR-50% during the first week of IRRT. Sessions with FATFR-50% were characterized by a higher occurrence of intradialytic hypotension (24.2% vs 60.2%, P < .001) and a higher planned fluid removal (6.19 vs 5.27 m/kg/h, P = .02). Multiple episodes of FATFR-50% were associated with a positive cumulative fluid balance (β 3876 (CI 2053–5899) P < .001). At 90-day follow-up, FATFR-50% during the first week after IRRT initiation was independently associated with fewer ICU- and hospital-free days, as well as with a higher risk of mortality (odds ratio 2.01 CI 1.04–3.89, P = .04). Conclusions FATFR occurs in about one out of five critically ill patients within the first week of IRRT and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes.

An Overview of Effectiveness of Balanced Scorecard Performance Management System in Tanzania

This study investigated the effectiveness of Balanced Scorecard (BSC) on provision of quality services in selected public organizations in Tanzania. The objective was to investigate the effective of balanced Scorecard on quality services in selected public organizations. The study reveals that BSC tool is more effective compared to previously used tools. Also, the employee’s perception on effectiveness of BSC tool on provision of quality services is positive. The findings of ordinal logistic regression analysis show that the effectiveness of BSC tool increases the likelihood of employees to provide quality services. Further, extended regression namely structural equation modelling shows that the relationship between effectiveness of BSC tool and provision of quality services is distorted by high level of autocratic management style while not distorted by rules, policy and regulations. The study is strongly recommending that there is a need for government and private organisations to adopt BSC as an effective tool for provision of quality services; There is a need of introducing transformational and collaborative management styles in order to account for quality of services; Organizations should continuously enforce regulations, rules and policies; The study should be used by decision makers to set standards of introducing viable and vibrant performance management tools which are result oriented and further studies on uncovered areas on BSC to be undertaken in future.

Anesthesia Management in Antenatal Care for Women With Chronic Kidney Disease: A Comprehensive Review.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents significant challenges in the management of pregnant women due to its impact on renal function and cardiovascular stability. This review examines the crucial role of anesthesia management in antenatal care for women with CKD, focusing on the complexities introduced by renal dysfunction and the implications for maternal and fetal health outcomes. The review discusses the physiological changes in CKD during pregnancy, highlighting the increased risks of hypertension, proteinuria, and adverse fetal outcomes. Anesthesia considerations, including the choice of anesthesia techniques (general anesthesia, regional anesthesia), perioperative monitoring, and management of fluid and electrolyte balance, are analyzed in the context of CKD-specific challenges. Clinical outcomes and current evidence regarding anesthesia efficacy and safety in CKD patients are reviewed, emphasizing the need for tailored anesthesia protocols to ensure optimal maternal comfort and fetal safety. The review concludes by identifying research gaps and proposing future directions to enhance anesthesia practices and improve outcomes for pregnant women with CKD undergoing surgical interventions or labor management.

Factors influencing emotional intelligence ability among Malaysian managers: A Delphi study

The study, focusing on Malaysian managers, employs a two-round Delphi research methodology to identify and rank variables influencing their emotional intelligence at work. The research is structured into five key areas, with factors ranked in ascending order of significance. Empathy and emotional resilience are deemed the most important, followed by emotional and self-awareness, work-life balance and stress management, social awareness and relationship management, learning and development, adaptability and continuous improvement, cultural and organizational dynamics, experience, and age. This study sheds light on the variables impacting Malaysian managers’ emotional intelligence skills and provides a ranking of key factors essential for successful development. It not only offers crucial guidance for personal and professional balance but also provides insightful recommendations for understanding and enhancing emotional intelligence skills in the workplace for Malaysian managers and organizations.

Impact of Green Work–Life Balance and Green Human Resource Management Practices on Corporate Sustainability Performance and Employee Retention: Mediation of Green Innovation and Organisational Culture

Impact of Green Work–Life Balance and Green Human Resource Management Practices on Corporate Sustainability Performance and Employee Retention: Mediation of Green Innovation and Organisational Culture

Modeling and control strategy optimization of battery pack thermal management system considering aging and temperature inconsistency for fast charging

Maintaining the battery pack’s temperature in the desired range is crucial for fulfilling the thermal management requirements of a battery pack during fast charging. Furthermore, the temperature difference, temperature gradient, aging loss and energy consumption of the battery pack should be balanced to optimize its performance. This paper establishes the liquid cooling thermal management system model for an electric vehicle’s battery pack, which accurately characterizes the temperature distribution and electrical and aging characteristics of the battery pack. The discrepancies between the experimental and simulated results of battery’s fast charging-cooling suggest that maximum absolute temperature error is 2 °C, and the maximum relative voltage error is 1.5 %. Based on the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II algorithm, an optimization model with aging and temperature gradient of cells as objective functions is established. Three different thermal management strategies are created according to the optimization results. The comparison of these thermal management methods with the constant temperature cooling strategy demonstrates that the minimum temperature gradient strategy enhances the temperature consistency of the battery pack and reduces the maximum temperature gradient by 27 %. The minimum aging thermal management strategy depicts an aging loss of 0.091 %, reducing the charging time by 272 s and the maximum temperature gradient by 2.0 °C. The balanced thermal management strategy enables the battery pack to balance the temperature gradient and aging loss by optimizing the charging time, battery pack temperature difference, energy consumption and other indicators. The weight of each indicator is determined by its information entropy, which can be replaced according to the diverse needs to achieve different balanced thermal management strategies, providing a reference for the actual application of thermal management strategies.

Venous Excess Ultrasound for Fluid Assessment in Complex Cardiac Patients With Acute Kidney Injury.

The introduction of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) into clinical practice has revolutionized bedside hemodynamic assessment in recent years. POCUS has expanded its utility to include evaluating and grading venous congestion through Doppler analysis of venous blood flow. This innovative technique, VExUS (venous excess ultrasound), comprehensively evaluates venous congestion across multiple sites, including the inferior vena cava (IVC), hepatic vein, portal vein, and intrarenal vasculature. The aim of the current study was to determine whether venous excess ultrasound can help guide fluid therapy in complex patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) in addition to the standard physical examination and imaging. Our current study shows instructive 18 clinical adult cases (enrolled between January 2024 and May 2024) to determine whether venous excess ultrasound can help guide fluid therapy in complex cardiac patients with acute kidney injury, in addition to the standard physical examination and imaging. VExUS was pivotal in guiding fluid therapy in all complex patients with AKI and suspected right ventricular dysfunction. By integrating VExUS findings with clinical data and cardiac ultrasound results, clinicians were able to make patient-favouring decisions regarding fluid management, diuresis, and vasopressor therapy, addressing critical aspects of conditions such as septic shock, heart failure, and acute kidney injury. In our study of VExUSin sick patients with AKI, we concluded that VExUS proved to be a valuable tool for fluid assessment and management. By providing real-time visualization of venous congestion, VExUS allowed for more precise and individualized fluid management strategies. This led to improved decision-making regarding fluid administration and removal, helping to prevent both fluid overload and hypovolemia. Consequently, the use of VExUS contributed to better clinical outcomes in patients with AKI, demonstrating its potential as a critical component in the management of fluid balance in this vulnerable patient population.

Optimization of Ruscus hypophyllum L. Growth Using Manure and Nitrogen Applications in Subtropical Conditions of Punjab

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of farmyard manure (FYM) and nitrogen (N) on the growth and development of Ruscus hypophyllum L., a valuable cut foliage crop. Study Design: The research was conducted as a two-year field experiment using a randomized complete block design (R.C.B.D.). Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Department of Floriculture & Landscaping, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, during 2020-2021. Methodology: The study utilized four treatments: control, 50 g N + 10 kg FYM, 100 g N + 20 kg FYM, and 150 g N + 30 kg FYM. Key growth parameters measured included plant height, spread, stem diameter, leaf dimensions, and number of harvestable stems. Data were collected and analyzed using standard agronomic methods to determine the effectiveness of each treatment. Results: The 100 g N + 20 kg FYM treatment consistently produced optimal results. Plants under this treatment reached a maximum height of 73.34 cm and had a stem diameter of 1.55 cm. Leaf breadth and length were significantly improved, with values reaching 4.03 cm and 8.05 cm, respectively. The number of harvestable stems increased from 16.66 in the control to 20.5. Higher nutrient levels (150 g N + 30 kg FYM) often reduced performance, indicating potential over-fertilization effects. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of balanced nutrient management in R. hypophyllum cultivation. The 100 g N + 20 kg FYM treatment is recommended for optimal growth and yield. These results provide evidence-based recommendations for commercial production, highlighting the need to avoid over-fertilization to prevent reduced plant performance.

Management of stress amongst state universities’ lecturers for improved performance: A quantitative approach

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the influence of stress on the performance of state university lecturers in the Southeast, Nigeria. Research Methodology: To achieve this, a correlational survey design method was employed. The study encompassed all six state universities in southeastern Nigeria, focusing exclusively on academic staff. This research involved all state university lecturers on full-time appointments, ranging from professorial cadres to graduate assistants. Data were obtained from personnel offices of the six state universities under review. The social sciences statistical package was used to analyze the data and draw conclusions. Results: The study revealed a significant positive impact of work-life balance on career development, as well as a marked positive impact of mental health management on the academic productivity of state university lecturers in southeast Nigeria. Limitations: The study focused solely on the impact of stress among lecturers of state universities in southeast Nigeria and was limited to the six state universities approved by the National Universities Commission as of the 2023/2024 academic session. Contribution: This study contributes to existing knowledge by introducing new indicators, such as work-life balance and mental health management, to the theme of stress management. It also adds to the empirical and theoretical evidence that could aid future scholars in exploring stress management further. Funding: This research was funded by the authors, and no external funding was received from any institution or corporate entity during this study.

Response of soil microbial homeostasis to soil ecological stoichiometric balance in a World Natural Heritage area

Soil microbial biomass stoichiometry homeostasis is essential for microorganism survival and ecosystem stability. Despite its importance, research on soil microbial homeostasis in Natural World Heritage Sites (NWHS) is lacking. This study analyzed ecological stoichiometry and microbial homeostasis in surface (0–20 cm) and subsurface (20–40 cm) soils across various vegetation types in Fanjing Mountain, an NWHS in China. The objective was to explore microbial homeostasis in relation to soil ecological stoichiometry and identify key influencing factors. Results indicated that microbial biomass stoichiometry in surface soil is higher than in subsurface soil for 5 vegetation types, mirroring nutrient stoichiometry but contrasting enzyme stoichiometry. Vector length (VL) suggests higher C limitation in subsurface soil for all vegetation types, while vector angle (VA) shows P limitation in surface soil of certain types and N limitation in subsurface soil across all types. Random forest analysis revealed that the microbial carbon-nitrogen ratio (MB C/N) was mainly contributed by C/N (14.11 %), SOC (12.31 %), pH (10.52 %), NH4+-N, SWC, NO3--N in the surface soil, and NO3--N (15.74 %), altitude, SWC, SOC, C/N in the subsurface soil, whereas for the microbial carbon-phosphorus ratio (MB C/P), altitude (12.16 %), SWC (9.86 %), and AP were the main contributing factors in the surface soil, and in the subsurface soil, altitude (10.49 %), C/P, SWC, SOC, and TP. This study provides insights into ecological stoichiometry, homeostasis, and nutrient limitations in Fanjing Mountain, aiding vegetation nutrient balance management in NWHS.

Unravelling the impact of varied organic fertilizer sources on the vegetative and reproductive traits of okra growth and development

Nepal's pursuit of sustainable food production and rural livelihoods faces challenges amid evolving environmental pressures. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) cultivation, integral to Nepalese agriculture, demands innovative approaches to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact. This study investigates the efficacy of varied organic fertilizers on okra growth and development, aiming to identify sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers. The research was conducted at the G.P. Koirala College of Agriculture and Research Centre in Sundarharaicha, Morang, Nepal, from June to August 2023. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with eight treatments replicated three times was employed, including recommended NPK dosage and various organic sources. Observations on plant height, primary branches, pods per plant, pod length, diameter, weight per pod, and yield per plant were recorded. Statistical analysis revealed significant variations among treatments. The highest yield was obtained with the recommended NPK dosage (108.84 g/plant), closely followed by biofertilizers like 100% mustard cake (103.70 g/plant) and goat manure (104.28 g/plant). The lowest yield was observed in the control group (76.99 g/plant). Notably, NPK fertilizer consistently outperformed organic alternatives in promoting okra growth and yield. However, among organic fertilizers, mustard cake and goat manure emerged as promising alternatives, showcasing comparable results to synthetic fertilizers. These findings underscore the importance of balanced nutrient management in optimizing okra productivity. Future research should explore integrated nutrient management strategies, combining organic and synthetic inputs, to enhance sustainability and resilience in Nepalese agriculture.

A systematic analysis of European markers of balanced environmental management under the conditions of economic circularity

The main task of the article is to research the role of balanced environmental management in the construction of a circular model of the European countries’ economy by using environmental and economic markers. It determines the level of environmental pollution and other environmental problems, including those caused by resource waste. It proposes a technological method of wastewater treatment from estrogen, microplastic particles and oil by using iron oxide. The rate of population for which secondary wastewater treatment is available and its importance for water efficiency under the conditions of significant water crisis in Europe was determined. The paper identifies the main indicators of economic losses of European countries that depend on climate change, because the weather anomalies have a significant impact on economic processes. It studies the dynamics of changes in the area of forested land according to FAO of the European G7 members, the current potential of forest resources of Ukraine and identifies the necessity of systematic electronic wood accounting. It is established that in the EU countries the practice of returning many types of raw materials to production after waste processing has long been accepted, and the need for the fastest possible introduction of innovative processing technologies is identified. Mathematical formulas for calculating the coefficient of cyclicality, circular use of materials and establishes the level of using cyclical materials by European manufacturers are derived. It is established that to identify the efficiency and dynamism of waste transformation, it is appropriate to use an indicator that measures the fraction of recycled household waste in the total volume of its generation. The article establishes the share of fossil fuels in the total available energy of European countries and analyses the dynamics of primary energy consumption based on the example of the Scandinavian countries. It identifies the level of revenues from environmental taxes in most European countries and their importance for the circular economy. It is recommended for Ukraine to study and use the experience of the European Union countries for construction its own model of circular economy based on the principles of balanced nature management and sustainable development.

Benchmarking deep Facial Expression Recognition: An extensive protocol with balanced dataset in the wild

Facial expression recognition (FER) is crucial in enhancing human-computer interaction. While current FER methods, leveraging various open-source deep learning models and training techniques, have shown promising accuracy and generalizability, their efficacy often diminishes in real-world scenarios that are not extensively studied. Addressing this gap, we introduce a novel in-the-wild balanced testing facial expression dataset designed for cross-domain validation, called BTFER. We rigorously evaluated widely utilized networks and self-designed architectures, adhering to a standardized protocol. Additionally, we explored different configurations, including input resolutions, class balance management, and pre-trained strategies, to ascertain their impact on performance. Through comprehensive testing across three major FER datasets and our in-depth cross-validation, we have ranked these network architectures and formulated a series of practical guidelines for implementing deep learning-based FER solutions in real-life applications. This paper also delves into the ethical considerations, privacy concerns, and regulatory aspects relevant to the deployment of FER technologies in sectors such as marketing, education, entertainment, and healthcare, aiming to foster responsible and effective use. The BTFER dataset and the implementation code are available in Kaggle and Github, respectively.

Effect of Potassium Schoenite (Mahalaabh) on Growth and Yield of Castor, Cotton and Groundnut

The need for precise nutrient application has become crucial in agriculture due to climate change and intensive farming practices. Deficiencies in potassium, magnesium and sulphur are critical for enhancing both crop yield and quality. Additionally, agrochemical residues in soil, water and farm products pose significant challenges. Mahalaabh (K2SO4·MgSO4·6H2O), a combination of potassium, sulphur and magnesium, offers a balanced solution to address these issues. Field experiments were conducted during the Kharif season of 2023-24 at Agrocel Industries Pvt. Ltd., Kachchh, to evaluate the impact of Mahalaabh on castor, cotton and groundnut crops. The trials were executed in a Randomized Block Design, testing different doses of Mahalaabh powder through foliar spray, fertigation and granular soil application. The results demonstrated that Mahalaabh powder is effective in enhancing productivity across the tested crops. In castor, higher doses of 10 kg/acre through drip irrigation and 20g/L foliar application increased productivity by 22.3% and 14.3% over the recommended fertilizer dose (RFD), respectively. However, in cotton, lower doses of 6kg/acre through drip irrigation and 10g/L through foliar application were more effective, resulting in 3.8% and 5.3% yield enhancements compared to RFD. In groundnut, foliar spray at 15 g/L applied thrice at 30-35, 50-55, and 70-75 days after sowing (DAS) was effective, resulting in a 22.9% higher pod yield compared to RFD. These findings highlight the importance of balanced nutrient management practices tailored to specific crop requirements for achieving optimal agricultural productivity.

Green Corridors and Social Connectivity with a Sustainable Approach in the City of Cuzco in Peru

The present research aims to propose the design of a green corridor with a systemic/sustainable approach to function as an ecological lung for the city of Cuzco. A lack of planning has resulted in uncontrolled urban development, with a shortage of green areas, negatively affecting the quality of life. Green corridors stand out as solutions that encourage social interaction and improve public health. This approach recognizes the need for balanced resource management and institutional, economic and social organization. In the specific case of Cusco, the lack of social interaction highlights the importance of addressing these challenges to improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors. The methods developed were an extensive literature review, urban analysis and climate analysis, applying sustainability strategies supported by digital tools (Google Earth, Climate Consultant 6.0, Autocad, SketchUp and 3d Sun Path). As a result, this proposal presents green areas covering 69.96% of the total area, aimed at providing recreational spaces and connecting residents and visitors with nature. Additionally, biolakes were designed, accounting for 3.18% of the area, serving as ornamental elements and contributing to the environmental quality of the urban environment. The botanical zone, encompassing 18.14% of the project, was designed to accommodate a diverse range of plant species, providing an educational and aesthetic environment. The convention area, representing 9.7% of the total area, was designed to host events and community activities, promoting social and cultural interaction. Finally, 0.98% of the space was allocated to the cultural zone, where artistic exhibitions, cultural events, and related activities can be planned, enriching the cultural and social life of the community. These percentages reflect careful consideration of the needs and aspirations of the population, as well as a comprehensive approach to sustainable urban design and the creation of multifunctional spaces. In conclusion, through a green corridor, the aim is to counteract uncontrolled urban expansion and environmental degradation by generating a green lung in the city of Cuzco, naturally regulating the climate and contributing to air and water purification. The absence of green corridors and sustainable approaches to social connectivity in Cusco could reduce the quality of life of residents, affecting their physical and mental health. The lack of green and recreational spaces could increase segregation and alienation in the community, weakening social cohesion. Without green corridors, the city would also face environmental and biodiversity challenges, as well as a reduced ability to respond to extreme weather events. The lack of implementation of these strategies could compromise comprehensive development and quality of life in Cuzco.

Nurturing Corporate Employee Emotional Wellbeing, Time Management and the Influence on Family

This study article investigates the complex dynamics affecting corpo-rate employees' emotional well- being, time management, and work-life balance,as well as their influence on family relations This study uses a correlational re- search design to investigate the relationship between emotion regulation and time management practices among corporate employees. The study analyses the link between emotional regulation and time management abilities among corporate professionals, examining their impact on family outcomes. The findings show strong links between emotional well-being, time management, and work-life bal-ance. Poor work-life balance is linked to decreased emotional well-being, whereas efficient time management connects with increased positive emotional states. The correlation analysis revealed positive associations between work-life balance and time management (r = 0.217, p = 0.017), and between positive emo-tions and time management (r = 0.111, p = 0.224). Negative emotions correlatednegatively with both work-life balance (r = - 0.415, p < 0.001) and positive emo-tions (r = -0.613, p < 0.001), indicating intertwined dynamics. The study found strong links between emotional well-being, time management, and work-life bal- ance among corporate employees. Positive emotions and work-life balance have a modest positive link, but negative emotions have the opposite relationship. Im- proved work-life balance is positively related to good time management. Re- search suggests that supportive work environments and efficient time manage- ment can improve employee well-being and family conflict.

Calcium supplementation during trauma resuscitation: a propensity score-matched analysis from the TraumaRegister DGU®

BackgroundIn major trauma patients, hypocalcemia is associated with increased mortality. Despite the absence of strong evidence on causality, early calcium supplementation has been recommended. This study investigates whether calcium supplementation during trauma resuscitation provides a survival benefit.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis using data from the TraumaRegister DGU® (2015–2019), applying propensity score matching to balance demographics, injury severity, and management between major trauma patients with and without calcium supplementation. 6 h mortality, 24 h mortality, and in-hospital mortality were considered as primary outcome parameters.ResultsWithin a cohort of 28,323 directly admitted adult major trauma patients at a European trauma center, 1593 (5.6%) received calcium supplementation. Using multivariable logistic regression to generate propensity scores, two comparable groups of 1447 patients could be matched. No significant difference in early mortality (6 h and 24 h) was observed, while in-hospital mortality appeared higher in those with calcium supplementation (28.3% vs. 24.5%, P = 0.020), although this was not significant when adjusted for predicted mortality (P = 0.244).ConclusionIn this matched cohort, no evidence was found for or against a survival benefit from calcium supplementation during trauma resuscitation. Further research should focus on understanding the dynamics and kinetics of ionized calcium levels in major trauma patients and identify if specific conditions or subgroups could benefit from calcium supplementation.

Application of improved Wolf pack algorithm in planning and operation of multi-microgrid systems with electric vehicles

Abstract With the rapid growth of renewable energy sources and the widespread use of electric vehicles (EVs), the planning and operation problems of multiple microgrids (MMGs) have become more complex and diverse. This paper develop an MMG model with multiple renewable energy sources and small-scale EVs, aiming to maximize the use of renewable energy sources and realize the charging demand of EVs, and highlighting the potential role of EVs in MMGs. In addition, the paper underscores the indispensable role of measurement technology in microgrids and the impetus that microgrid development provides for advancements in measurement technology. To this end, this paper proposes an improved Wolf pack algorithm (IWPA) based on the standard Wolf Pack Algorithm (WPA) with a spiral search approach and chaotic updating of individuals to improve the global search capability of the algorithm and the complexity of solving the scheduling problem. Through simulation experiments on ten standard test functions and examples, it is verified that the IWPA algorithm improves the search accuracy by 2.8%–6.8% and 13.9%–18.3% in the worst and best cases, respectively, in comparison with other algorithms, and it also has a faster convergence speed. Meanwhile, this paper proposes a load interval pricing strategy for the shortcomings of time-of-use pricing strategy and traditional real-time pricing strategy, which is simulated under grid-connected operation, isolated grid operation, and multi-microgrid cooperative operation modes, and the simulation results of the arithmetic example show that this strategy can effectively reduce carbon emissions, and IWPA can effectively coordinate renewable energy, EVs, and other energy resources to achieve efficient energy management of MMGs and supply-demand balance.

Altered body balance and plantar pressure distribution in young adults with forward head posture

BackgroundForward head posture (FHP), a common postural issue, affects balance and may be linked to altered muscle activity and cervical spine alignment. This study investigated the impact of FHP on static balance and plantar pressure distribution in adults. We hypothesized that FHP would be associated with poorer balance and altered pressure distribution. MethodsThis case-control study investigated the impact of FHP on static balance and plantar pressure distribution in adults (n = 52). Participants were categorized based on craniovertebral angle (CVA), into FHP (CVA <47°) and control (CVA ≥47°) groups. Static balance was assessed using a NeuroCom® Balance Manager System, evaluating parameters like center of gravity sway and directional control. Plantar pressure distribution was measured with an Emed Pedobarography system during walking, analyzing maximum force, peak pressure, and contact area. ResultsParticipants with FHP showed poorer balance with eyes closed on foam compared to the control group. Additionally, the FHP group exhibited lower total maximum force and altered force distribution in both feet during walking. Correlations suggested that higher CVA degrees were associated with decreased balance and altered plantar pressure distribution. Despite, linear regression analyses revealed no significant predictive relationships between CVA and specific balance measures, it showed significant associations with several plantar pressure distribution parameters, including total maximum force exerted on both feet, maximum force on the forefoot, and peak pressure on the hindfoot. ConclusionThese findings suggest that FHP may influence balance and plantar pressure distribution, with a potentially stronger effect on plantar pressure than balance parameters.

Beet sugar enterprises in Kazakhstan: balanced management, reserves

The goal is to analyze production indicators of sugar beets and sugar for 1990-2023, to recommend measures to increase volume of sugar industry products. Methods - statistical, on the basis of which primary data on production of beet raw materials and sugar, its consumption per capita, export and import, and foreign trade turnover are collected. Results - the authors note that development of beet-sugar subcomplex is accompanied by stable decrease in quantity of this product, resulting in reduction in acreage and decrease in yield. The deterioration of parameters is due to high cost and low profitability of crop produced, outdated technical base, the use of lowquality seeds, problems with irrigation, and insufficient capacity of sugar factories. The current situation has a direct impact on the demand for sugar, which is met through imports and raw sugar obtained from processing. State measures aimed to increase sugar from domestic raw materials, set out in the Comprehensive Plan for the Development of Sugar Industry in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2022-2026, were considered, in the framework of which it is provided to ensure the enterprises with unused agricultural land suitable for cultivating sugar beets within a radius of 150 kilometers to ensure their own raw materials taking into account the requests of the processors. Conclusions - the implementation of the set tasks will reduce sugar import dependence and saturate the domestic market with own products. At the same time, logistics issues, reducing cost of transporting finished products, and financing construction of railways need to be worked out.