bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of Arsenic in Soil Samples Collected in an Industrial Area of Brindisi (Apulia, Italy): Speciation Analysis and Availability
Authors: Migoni Danilo , Papadia Paride , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo
Published: October 2023

Arsenic (As) is a well-known toxic metalloid, but environmental risks due to excessive As content in soils or sediments depend on the chemical forms present and their relative mobility. Long-term exposure to arsenic may cause several diseases. In order to assess the possible risks in the heavily impacted Consorzio per lo Sviluppo Industriale e di Servizi Reali alle Imprese (Consortium for Industrial Development and Effective Services for Business, S.I.S.R.I.) industrial area of Brindisi (Apulia, southern Italy), 38 soil samples were collected in the area, from 18 sampling points previously determined as outliers. Total As determination, speciation analysis, and a cession test with acetic acid were performed. Speciation analysis was performed by HPLC coupled to hydride generation-atomic absorption spectroscopy (HG-AAS). Total As determination obtained by mineralization showed a concentration range between 51.8 and 169.6 mg kg−1, which is higher than the limit of 50 mg kg−1 established by D.M. (Ministerial Decree) 471/99 for industrial areas. The highest concentrations of extracted As were obtained in the top-soil layers. As(III) and As(V) were detected in all the samples, while the concentrations of the organic species monomethyl arsonic acid (MMAA) and dimethyl arsenic acid (DMAA) were always under the detection limit. The samples releasing the highest As quantities in the acetic acid cession test were in every circumstance collected from the superficial soil levels. The different amounts of As determined in the sampling sites could depend on the distance from the specific sources of pollution, even if it is very difficult to identify them in a very complex industrial zone such as the S.I.S.R.I. area of Brindisi. In this study, As occurs mainly as relatively immobile or slowly exchangeable forms: for this reason, it is more abundant in the top-soil and is little affected by the action of rainwater, which transports only reduced quantities of As into the deeper layers.
Effect of Leader–Member Exchange on Proactive Employee Behavior and Employee Performance: The Moderating Role of Innovative Climate
Authors: Latifoglu Neslihan , Imamoglu Salih Zeki , Ince Huseyin , Altindag Erkut
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate the mechanisms and regulatory processes underlying the relationship between leader–member exchange and employee performance. Social exchange theory and self-determination theory argue that proactive employee behavior has an intermediary effect on the relationship between leader–member exchange and employee performance. In addition, it is predicted that the innovative climate will regulate this indirect effect. Data were collected via questionnaire from 266 people working in organizations operating in various sectors located in Gebze and Istanbul using a survey method. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) and PROCESS macro. According to the findings, the hypothesis that leader–member exchange is positively related to employee performance and that proactive employee behavior mediates this relationship is supported. In addition, an innovative climate regulates the positive relationship between leader–member exchange and proactive employee behavior, deepening the theoretical understanding of the consequences of this interaction.
A Guide to the Integration and Utilization of Energy Storage Systems with a Focus on Demand Resource Management and Power Quality Enhancement
Authors: Abo-Khalil Ahmed G. , Alobaid Mohammad
Published: October 2023

The increasing peak electricity demand and the growth of renewable energy sources with high variability underscore the need for effective electrical energy storage (EES). While conventional systems like hydropower storage remain crucial, innovative technologies such as lithium batteries are gaining traction due to falling costs. This paper examines the diverse applications of energy storage, spanning from grid connectivity to end-user solutions, and emphasizes large-scale energy recovery and system stability. The integration of EES with various energy infrastructures and consumer strategies is explored, highlighting the use of tariffs and peak pricing systems for energy cost savings. Country-specific priorities shape EES deployment, with the U.S focusing on grid stability, Japan on emergency power, and South Korea, still in the demonstration phase, prioritizing peak demand reduction. Our analysis of the UK, U.S., and South Korea reveals the pivotal role of energy storage in achieving flexible and efficient energy systems. The industry shows promising growth, with significant commercial expansion expected around 2035, presenting profound policy and deployment implications for the future.
Time Limit of Environmental Benefits of Renewable Energy Power Projects—Analysis Based on Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Shang Nan , Huang Guori , Leng Yuan , Zhang Jihong , Shen Angxing
Published: October 2023

The supply of green electricity certificates (GECs) exceeds the demand, leading to companies being more willing to purchase GECs to meet their emission reduction obligations. However, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of renewable energy (RE) projects labeled as “greenwashing”. Drawing on the “additionality” theory, we developed a cost model with construction, operation, and discount rates. We utilized cost data from China’s onshore wind and photovoltaic power generation in our study. After 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations, we made the following findings: (1) The environmental benefits of RE power generation diminish over time, and the time limit for judging whether RE projects have additional costs compared with traditional thermal power should be considered; (2) The time limit for marginal environmental effects of China’s onshore wind and photovoltaic power generation is estimated to be 7.65–10.78 years and 5.44–7.25 years, respectively. The analysis methods and ideas proposed in this paper can provide reference for the development of the GEC system in China and even other countries.
Experimental Research on Erosion Characteristics of Ecological Slopes under the Scouring of Non-Directional Inflow
Authors: Liu Mingxiao , Luo Yaru , Li Fei , Hu Hao , Sun Dongpo
Published: October 2023

Considering environmental sustainability, ecological embankments are often adopted in rivers, which benefit both the erosion resistance and the ecological balance of the bank. In this paper, the effectiveness of different types of dominant grass species in ecological slope protection and their impact mechanisms, as well as the impact of non-directional inflow on erosion characteristics, were investigated. Based on the principle of similarity theory in hydraulic modeling and the characteristics of flood erosion in riverbanks, a test model system for hydraulic ecological simulation was designed, including a vegetation bank slope and channels. Three types of dominant grass species were selected, and 12 series of erosion experiments were conducted in the grassed slope of the test model. Three types of root–soil composites and a reference plain soil were involved in the tests, and soil mechanical indicators such as shear strength were collected. Experimental results show that root–soil composite is a special elastic–plastic material, which provides additional cohesive force to the soil due to its root consolidation and reinforcement effects, Δc. The shear strength index reflecting soil cohesion was increased by 15% to 20%. The primary factor affecting slope erosion is the flushing velocity, and both the average erosion depth and the unit soil erosion loss present an exponential function with respect to this factor, while presenting a linear function with the angle of incoming flow. Compared with the plain soil slope, the ecological slope could decrease erosion significantly. The sand loss of the ecological slope is only 50~60% that of the plain soil slope as the flushing velocity is 3–4 m s−1. In vertical flushing, the sand loss in the plain soil slope is 1.73–2.43 times that of the ecological slope. This research might provide technical support for the anti-scourability design of the ecological embankment.
A Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Concrete for Structural Applications
Authors: Phuyal Kabiraj , Sharma Ujwal , Mahar James , Mondal Kunal , Mashal Mustafa
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to utilize waste products—precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) and upcycled recycled concrete aggregate (upcycled RCA or UCA)—in civil works projects. To do so, tests must be performed to determine the engineering properties of the materials in which PCC and UCA are sequestered. PCC is a fine to coarse grain waste product generated during the production of sugar from sugar beets. UCA is produced from demolished and returned concrete by the extraction of primarily calcium and alkalinity. The study also includes the use of both PCC and UCA in the same concrete mix design. The test results on PCC alone show that the optimum content to achieve a minimum 28 MPa (4000 psi) compressive strength is 25% and 30%. The corresponding compressive strength of mixes in which conventional aggregate was replaced by UCA is about 48 MPa (7000 psi) to 55 MPa (8000 psi) at the same water: cement ratio (0.44) by weight. The compressive strength of concrete with 25% to 30% cement replaced by PCC and varying aggregates replaced with UCA ranges from 19.3 to 40 MPa (2800 to 5800 psi). Other tests on PCC and UCA include tensile strength of 2 to 3 MPa (293 to 423 psi) and flexural strength of 1.3 to 1.9 MPa (183 to 279 psi). Analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to identify the constituent elements and chemical compounds present in PCC, including calcium carbonate and silica. Based on the test results, the composition of PCC by weight indicates 45.9% calcium, 39.4% oxygen, and 9.2% carbon. Based on the results of this study, we can expect to reduce carbon emissions in the production of cement and aggregates, as well as utilize waste products in the civil engineering field.
Innovation in Green Materials for the Non-Contact Stabilization of Sensitive Works of Art: Preliminary Assessment and the First Application of Ultra-Low Viscosity Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) by Ultrasonic Misting to Consolidate Unstable Porous and Powdery Media
Authors: Markevicius Tomas
Published: October 2023

Paintings and other works of art created with fragile and mechanically unstable powdery media present challenges to conservators. Frequently, powdery media is water-sensitive, extremely fragile, tends to delaminate, and may be altered by even the slightest physical action or interaction with liquids. Materials that can provide an efficient stabilization without unacceptably altering the optical characteristics of the delicate substrate are extremely limited. Among these, Funori, Isinglass, and Methocel A4C have become established for this use. In bench practice, consolidants are frequently applied in a non-contact way, using ultrasonic and pneumatic aerosol generators to minimize the impact of the consolidant on sensitive substrates. However, nebulizing the available materials is problematic in bench practice, because of their high viscosity and, only extremely low concentrations can be nebulized using low kinetic impact ultrasonic or pressure-based misting systems adopted from the healthcare industry. As a potential innovative solution, this study introduces novel ultra-low viscosity (ULV) cellulose ethers (ULV-HPMC) for stabilisation of unstable porous and powdery surfaces, which have been successfully applied in bench practice for the pilot treatment of Edvard Munch painting on canvas and two 19th c. Thai gouache paintings on panel. Novel ULV-HPMC materials have multiple desirable qualities for consolidation treatments in conservation, and in accelerated aging tests marginally outperformed Methocel A4C, considered to be one of the most stable consolidants in the practice of conservation. Because of the ultra-low viscosity, higher concentrations of ULV-HPMC materials can be applied as water-based aerosols in a non-contact way and in fewer applications, which is a significant advantage in the treatment of delicate water-sensitive surfaces. Notably, novel ULV biopolymers are low-cost, derive from sustainable and renewable sources, and do not raise health and environmental concerns. Such novel materials and methods seamlessly resonate with the ICOM-CC’s Melbourne 2014 declaration, EU Green Deal, and the UN’s Sustainable Development goals and show potential adding new sustainable materials with the exceptionally low viscosity to the conservator’s tool box.
Implementing Cool Roof and Bio-PCM in Portable Cabins to Create Low-Energy Buildings Suitable for Different Climates
Authors: Sedaghat Ahmad , Mahdizadeh Arash , Narayanan Ramadas , Salem Hayder , Hussam Wisam K. , Al-Khiami Mohamad Iyad , Malayer Mahdi Ashtian , Soleimani Sayed M. , Sabati Mohammad , Rasul Mohammad , Kamal Khan Mohammad Masud
Published: October 2023

The building sector’s energy consumption has significantly increased due to climate change, emphasizing the need to develop sustainable low-energy buildings using experimental and computational tools. As a joint project between Kuwait and Australia, two portable cabins with internal sizes of 2 m × 2 m × 2.80 m, made from 75 mm thick sandwich panels and metal frames, were built in Kuwait to investigate their thermal and power consumption characteristics under various energy-saving techniques and different climates. This is the first attempt to analyze the energy-saving aspects of portable cabins made from sandwich panels for future sustainable cities. Each cabin has an indoor air-quality-sensing device and a novel power-monitoring system to measure their thermal and power consumption characteristics. First, shingles and novel finned metal cool roof (CR) techniques were experimentally investigated. Then, a new multi-zone SketchUp model of the portable cabins was created and simulated in TRNSYS. Next, the energy saving data of the portable cabins were investigated by adding PCM on the walls and the roof using built-in models of bio-phase change materials (Bio-PCMs) in TRNSYS. The annual energy performance index (EPI) as an important sustainability index was explored for determining heating/cooling/total demands of the portable cabins in the desert climate of Kuwait and in various climate regions of Australia. The findings reveal that both shingles and finned metal roofs contributed to higher power consumption. Meanwhile, the use of sustainable Bio-PCMs in Kuwait demonstrates a significant energy-saving potential of 30%, with variations ranging from 25% to over 45% across different climate regions in Australia.
Sustainability in the Development of Green Organizations Based on the Example of Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Graczyk-Kucharska Magdalena
Published: October 2023

There are many studies that address the topic of organizational development in the context of sustainability, but their results do not include a combined functional approach in the area of management as well as in the development of green organizations (GOs). Defining the development of GOs and their phases from a functional perspective in manufacturing companies has not yet been sufficiently studied. This refers to the process of organizational change including, but not limited to, production, human resources, marketing, environmental management, supply chain, resources, circular economy, zero-waste buildings or product design. The purpose of this paper is to characterize the criteria for describing GOs and to define the phases of their development against the background of the literature. Empirical research was conducted on a sample of 100 manufacturing companies. The development phases of GOs were determined using cluster analysis with the k-means method carried out in accordance with the Hartigan–Wong algorithm and compared with the publishing dates of scientific publications. The results indicate that it is possible to define organizations by their development phase, and thus, it is possible to identify criteria that, when refined, will make it possible to accelerate the development of GOs in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.
Balancing Agriculture and Industry through Waste Utilization for Sugarcane Sustainability
Authors: Bridhikitti Arika , Kaewsuk Jutamas , Karaket Netiya , Friend Richard , Sallach Brett , Chong James P. J. , Redeker Kelly R.
Published: October 2023

The Bio-Circular-Green Economy initiative adopted in Thailand encourages using sugar mill by-products for food production, benefiting both farmers and the environment. This study assesses the feasibility of applying by-products from the sugar mills and distilleries into sugar plantations for irrigation, fertilization, and soil conditioning. It addresses challenges in sustainable waste utilization and offers recommendations. This study reviews literature, conducts preliminary surveys, and analyzes samples from sugarcane fields in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. The findings reveal that while vinasse and filter cake demonstrate promise as soil conditioners, their application requires careful consideration of soil type and pre-treatment processes. Vinasse, rich in essential nutrients, can benefit sandy soils by improving microbial activity and nutrient availability. Filter cake exhibits positive effects on soil texture, water permeability, and mineral content. Treated wastewater can be used for ferti-irrigation. However, about one-third of farmers lack confidence in its use due to concerns about limited nutrient availability, high transportation costs, and potential negative impacts on health, agriculture, and the ecosystem. To enhance farmer adaptability and ensure the successful utilization of waste, several challenges must be addressed, including: (1) assessing financial and technical feasibility of waste transportation and value-added products, (2) overcoming regulatory barriers related to transportation and utilization of industrial wastes, (3) disseminating knowledge to farmers regarding proper fertilization and waste utilization practices, and (4) implementing long-term monitoring on ecosystem health and conducting sustainability assessments of the waste utilization to affirm sustainability attainment.
Detecting Images in Two-Operator Series Manipulation: A Novel Approach Using Transposed Convolution and Information Fusion
Authors: Agarwal Saurabh , Cho Dae-Jea , Jung Ki-Hyun
Published: October 2023

Digital image forensics is a crucial emerging technique, as image editing tools can modify them easily. Most of the latest methods can determine whether a specific operator has edited an image. These methods are suitable for high-resolution uncompressed images. In practice, more than one operator is used to modify image contents repeatedly. In this paper, a reliable scheme using information fusion and deep network networks is presented to recognize manipulation operators and the operator’s series on two operators. A transposed convolutional layer improves the performance of low-resolution JPEG compressed images. In addition, a bottleneck technique is utilized to extend the number of transposed convolutional layers. One average pooling layer is employed to preserve the optimal information flow and evade the overfitting concern among the layers. Moreover, the presented scheme can detect two operator series with various factors without including them in training. The experimental outcomes of the suggested scheme are encouraging and better than the existing schemes due to the availability of sufficient statistical evidence.
Effect of Carbohydrates on the Formation Process and Performance of Micro-Arc Oxidation Coatings on AZ31B Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Du Yingxiu , Hu Mingyue , Tu Xiaohua , Miao Chengping , Zhang Yang , Li Jiayou
Published: October 2023

An environmentally friendly alkaline electrolyte of silicate and borate, which contained the addition of carbohydrates (lactose, starch, and dextrin), was applied to produce micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coatings on AZ31B magnesium alloy surfaces in constant current mode. The effects of the carbohydrates on the performance of the MAO coatings were investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), the salt spray test, potentiodynamic polarization curves, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results show that the carbohydrates effectively inhibited spark discharge, so the anodized growth process, surface morphology, composition, and corrosion resistance of the MAO coatings were strongly dependent on the carbohydrate concentration. This is ascribed to the surface adsorption layer formed on the surface of the magnesium alloy. When the carbohydrate concentration was 10 g/L, smooth, compact, and thick MAO coatings with excellent corrosion resistance on the magnesium alloy were obtained.
Does the Mineral Composition of Volcanic Ashes Have a Beneficial or Detrimental Impact on the Soils and Cultivated Crops of Ecuador?
Authors: Mihai Raluca A. , Espinoza-Caiza Iván A. , Melo-Heras Erly J. , Cubi-Insuaste Nelson S. , Pinto-Valdiviezo Eliza A. , Catana Rodica D.
Published: October 2023

Agriculture is an important economic sector for Ecuador, sustained by food crops like maize, potatoes, and vegetables cultivated in the highlands while cash crops such as coffee, bananas, cacao, and palm oil are grown on the coastal plains. But, Ecuador is also a country under the influence of several natural hazards due to its geographical location, atmospheric dynamics, and geological characteristics. One of the main risks to food security is the presence of a large number of active volcanoes scattered all over the country with the most representative enemy, the falling volcanic ash. The bibliography in general highlights the potential toxicity of volcanic ash from a human health perspective, but it also negatively influences plant development at the seed’s germination, as well as low crop pollination, damaged fruits, reduced leaf respiration depending on the type of crop, the developmental stage, the ash layer, and the climate. The mineral composition of the volcanic ash can also be beneficial for the soil by increasing fertility but at the same time with contrasting effects on plants due to the influence on soil characteristics such as pH, soil aeration, and biodiversity, which can detrimentally affect some crops.
Arsenic Removal Using Unconventional Material with Iron Content: Batch Adsorption and Column Study
Authors: Vancea Cosmin , Mladin Georgiana , Ciopec Mihaela , Negrea Adina , Duteanu Narcis , Negrea Petru , Mosoarca Giannin , Ianasi Catalin
Published: October 2023

The remediation of arsenic contamination in potable water is an important and urgent concern, necessitating immediate attention. With this objective in mind, the present study investigated arsenic removal from water using batch adsorption and fixed-bed column techniques. The material employed in this study was a waste product derived from the treatment of groundwater water for potable purposes, having a substantial iron composition. The material’s properties were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The point of zero charge (pHPZC) was measured, and the pore size and specific surface area were determined using the BET method. Under static conditions, kinetic, thermodynamic, and equilibrium studies were carried out to explore the influencing factors on the adsorption process, namely the pH, contact time, temperature, and initial arsenic concentration in the solution. It was found that the adsorption process is spontaneous, endothermic, and of a physical nature. In the batch adsorption studies, the maximum removal percentage was 80.4% after 90 min, and in a dynamic regime in the fixed-bed column, the efficiency was 99.99% at a sludge:sand = 1:1 ratio for 380 min for a volume of water with arsenic of ~3000 mL. The kinetics of the adsorption process conformed to a pseudo-second-order model. In terms of the equilibrium studies, the Sips model yielded the most accurate representation of the data, revealing a maximum equilibrium capacity of 70.1 mg As(V)/g sludge. For the dynamic regime, the experimental data were fitted using the Bohart–Adams, Thomas, and Clark models, in order to establish the mechanism of the process. Additionally, desorption studies were conducted, serving as an essential step in validating the practical applicability of the adsorption process, specifically in relation to the reutilization of the adsorbent material.
Potential Global Distribution of the Invasive Mosquito Aedes koreicus under a Changing Climate
Authors: Liu Qing , Xie Jing-Wen , Wang Ming , Du Yu-Tong , Yin Zi-Ge , Zhou Ning-Xin , Zhao Tong-Yan , Huang En-Jiong , Zhang Heng-Duan
Published: October 2023

Invasive alien species are a growing threat to natural systems, the economy, and human health. Active surveillance and responses that readily suppress newly established colonies are effective actions to mitigate the noxious consequences of biological invasions. Aedes (Hulecoeteomyia) koreicus (Edwards), a mosquito species native to East Asia, has spread to parts of Europe and Central Asia since 2008. In the last decade, Ae. koreicus has been shown to be a competent vector for chikungunya virus and Dirofilaria immitis. However, information about the current and potential distribution of Ae. koreicus is limited. Therefore, to understand the changes in their global distribution and to contribute to the monitoring and control of Ae. koreicus, in this study, the MaxEnt model was used to predict and analyze the current suitable distribution area of Ae. koreicus in the world to provide effective information.
An Emerging Conundrum in Nervous System Infections: Balancing Virus Offense and Host Defense
Authors: Enquist Lynn
Published: October 2023

Most viral infections begin in the peripheral organs and, as a result, engage the circulatory (blood and lymph) system, releasing more virus particles and other products of the infection (both host and virus gene products) into the circulation [...]
FAdV-4 Promotes Expression of Multiple Cytokines and Inhibits the Proliferation of aHEV in LMH Cells
Authors: Hou Lidan , Wang Wei , Chi Zengna , Zhang Yawen , Zou Zhong , Zhao Peng
Published: October 2023

Single or mixed infections of multiple pathogens such as avian hepatitis E virus (aHEV) and avian leukosis virus subgroup J (ALV-J) have been detected in numerous laying hens with severe liver injury in China. Thus, aHEV and immunosuppressive viruses are speculated to cause co-infections. In this study, co-infection with aHEV and fowl adenovirus (FAdV) was confirmed by nested RT-PCR and recombinase-aided amplification combined with gene sequencing in two flocks with severe liver injury. Subsequently, the two reference strains, aHEV and FAdV-4, were inoculated into LMH cells to identify their co-infection potential. Confocal microscopy revealed aHEV and FAdV-4 co-infected LMH cells. In addition, the replication dynamics of aHEV and FAdV-4 along with the expression levels of immuno-cytokines were measured. The results indicated colocalization of aHEV and FAdV-4 and inhibition of viral replication in LMH cells. The transcription levels of MDA5, Mx, OASL, and IFN-α were significantly upregulated in LMH cells, whereas those of immune-related factors induced by FAdV-4 were downregulated upon FAdV-4 and aHEV co-infection. These results confirmed the co-infection of aHEV and FAdV-4 in vitro and prompted the antagonistic pathogenic effects of FAdV-4 and aHEV, thereby providing novel insights into the counterbalancing effects of these viruses.
Mechanism of Innate Immune Response Induced by Albizia julibrissin Saponin Active Fraction Using C2C12 Myoblasts
Authors: Du Jing , Meng Xiang , Ni Tiantian , Xiong Beibei , Han Ziyi , Zhu Yongliang , Tu Jue , Sun Hongxiang
Published: October 2023

Albizia julibrissin saponin active fraction (AJSAF), is a prospective adjuvant with dual Th1/Th2 and Tc1/Tc2 potentiating activity. Its adjuvant activity has previously been proven to be strictly dependent on its spatial co-localization with antigens, highlighting the role of local innate immunity in its mechanisms. However, its potential targets and pathways remain unclear. Here, its intracellular molecular mechanisms of innate immune response were explored using mouse C2C12 myoblast by integrative analysis of the in vivo and in vitro transcriptome in combination with experimental validations. AJSAF elicited a temporary cytotoxicity and inflammation towards C2C12 cells. Gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated that AJSAF regulated similar cell death- and inflammatory response-related genes in vitro and in vivo through activating second messenger–MAPK–CREB pathways. AJSAF markedly enhanced the Ca2+, cAMP, and reactive oxygen species levels and accelerated MAPK and CREB phosphorylation in C2C12 cells. Furthermore, Ca2+ chelator, CREB inhibitor, and MAPK inhibitors dramatically blocked the up-regulation of IL-6, CXCL1, and COX2 in AJSAF-treated C2C12 cells. Collectively, these results demonstrated that AJSAF induced innate immunity via Ca2+–MAPK–CREB pathways. This study is beneficial for insights into the molecular mechanisms of saponin adjuvants.
Establishment of the Maximum Residual Limit in the Milk of Dairy Cows Injected Intramuscularly with Prednisolone
Authors: Rha Seung Shik , Yang Ye Jin , Kim Woo Hyun , Jin Yeung Bae , Park Kwang Il , Lee Hu-Jang
Published: October 2023

We measured the levels of prednisolone (PSL) residues in milk of intramuscularly dosed dairy cows and established a withdrawal time (WT) of PSL in milk. Eight healthy Holstein cows were injected with 10 (PSL-1) or 20 (PSL-2) mL of 10 mg/mL of PSL, and then, their milk was sampled at 12 h intervals for five days. PSL residue concentrations in milk were determined using LC-MS/MS. The correlation coefficient of the calibration curve was 0.9976. The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) were 0.2 µg/kg and 0.6 μg/kg, respectively. Recoveries ranged from 96.5% to 110.0%, and the coefficient of variation was <5.64%. At 24 h after administration, PSL levels in PSL-1 and PSL-2 were below the LOQ in all milk samples. Although this study had a smaller sample size than the European Medicines Agency’s recommendations (n = 20), it was based on the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency guidelines of the Republic of Korea (n = 8) for the determination of withdrawal periods in milk. We established the withdrawal period for both PSL-1 and PSL-2 in milk at 12 h. In conclusion, we developed an analytical method that is sensitive and can reliably detect PSL in milk, and our estimated WT of PSL in bovine milk is shorter than the current 3-day withdrawal period of PSL in commercial PSL products.
Design and analysis of periodic acoustic metamaterial sound insulator using finite element method
Authors: Laly Zacharie , Mechefske Christopher , Ghinet Sebastian , Kone Charly T. , Atalla Noureddine
Published: October 2023

In this article, a design of acoustic metamaterial containing Helmholtz resonators periodically embedded in a porous material is investigated for aerospace applications using the finite element method (FEM). The results obtained using the FEM are compared with the results of the theory,
and the proposed transfer matrix method and good agreements are obtained. The transfer matrix method was combined with FEM calculations for two different termination conditions (plane wave radiation and rigid wall) in order to retrieve the equivalent matrix of the porous layer with the integrated
periodic resonator. The equivalent matrix is then coupled analytically in series with others matrices. Finite element method studies are carried out on single and double wall configurations, and the effects of different resonator parameters and the air gap on the transmission loss are illustrated.
The influences of the orientation of the neck opening and the resistivity of the porous material are also studied. Finite element method results for different incident angles are presented for single and double wall configurations. The proposed design can potentially be integrated into the
panels of aircraft cabins in order to reduce the noise level at low frequencies inside the cabin.
CEZA HUKUKUNDA ALTERNATİF KAST (DOLUS ALTERNATIVUS)
Authors: ÇİÇEK Mustafa , HACIOĞLU Burhan Caner
Published: October 2023

Failin belirli bir davranışı gerçekleştirirken, birbirini sınırlayan birden fazla suç tipi veya neticeden birini mi yoksa diğerini mi gerçekleştireceğini kesin olarak bilmeden her iki ihtimali göze alıp kabul ederek hareket etmesi, alternatif kast olarak ifade edilmektedir. Alternatif kast, bir kast türü olmayıp birden fazla kast şeklinin bir arada bulunması halidir. Fail tek bir hareketle birden fazla suç tipine yönelik kasten hareket etmekte; ancak yalnızca bir neticenin meydana gelebileceğini, her iki neticenin birlikte gerçekleşmesinin mümkün olmadığı bilmektedir. Bu noktada failin kastı kapsamında yer alan ve gerçekleşmeyen neticeler bakımından cezai sorumluluğun tespiti tartışmalıdır.

Bu çalışmada bilhassa Alman hukukunda oldukça tartışmalı olan ve Türk hukukunda hakkında yeterli çalışma yapılmamış olan alternatif kast konusu incelenmiş, konuyla ilgili doktrinde yer alan görüşlere geniş ölçüde yer verilmeye çalışılmış, mukayeseli hukukta yer alan örneklerle konunun zenginleştirilmesine gayret edilmiş, ayrıca konuyla ilgili bir kısım yüksek yargı kararlarına da değinilmiştir.
АНАТОМІЧНА ВАРІАБЕЛЬНІСТЬ ЧУТЛИВОЇ ІННЕРВАЦІЇ ЩЕЛЕПНО-ЛИЦЕВОЇ ДІЛЯНКИ, ЇЇ ВПЛИВ НА ЕФЕКТИВНІСТЬ МІСЦЕВОЇ АНЕСТЕЗІЇ У СТОМАТОЛОГІЧНИХ ХВОРИХ (ОГЛЯД ЛІТЕРАТУРИ ТА РЕЗУЛЬТАТИ ВЛАСНИХ ДОСЛІДЖЕНЬ)
Authors: Мокрик О.Я. , Ломницький І.Я. , Філіпський А.В. , Гаврильців С.Т.
Published: October 2023

успішного проведення хірургічних втручань у щелепно-лицевій ділянці необхідне повноцінне анестезіологічне забезпечення. Більшість інвазивних стоматологічних маніпуляцій проводиться під місцевим знеболенням. Серед методів місцевого знеболення провідникова анестезія має р’яд переваг. Вона забезпечує тимчасову втрату чутливості значної частини верхньої чи нижньої щелеп при необхідності лікування або видалення великої кількості зубів, а також при операціях на щелепах чи обличчі. Однак виконання провідникових анестезій вимагає знань топографічної анатомії щелепно-лицевої ділянки, особливостей її іннервації. Для успішного проведення провідникової анестезії трійчастого нерва, периферійних гілок великого вушного та поперечного нервів шиї, які беруть участь в іннервації щелепно-лицевої ділянки, необхідно володіти технікою їх виконання та враховувати анатомічні фактори, які впливають на їх ефективність. Метою цього дослідження було проаналізувати дані сучасної вітчизняної та закордонної медичної літератури, які присвячені вивченню особливостей чутливої іннервації щелепно-лицевої ділянки та її впливу на ефективність місцевого знеболення, висвітлити результати власних краніометричних досліджень, які використані нами для розробки методик місцевих провідникових анестезій. У дослідженні використано аналітичний та бібліосемантичний методи. Пошук наукової інформації проводився в базах даних електронних пошукових систем. Виявлено та проаналізовано 71 джерело сучасних вітчизняних та зарубіжних фахових видань, які стосувались цієї тематики. В літературних джерелах вказується на існування анатомічної варіабельності розгалуження на обличчі трійчастого нерва, великого вушного та поперечного нервів шиї, тому при застосуванні стандартних методик провідникових анестезій не завжди вдається досягти необхідного ефекту місцевого знеболення. Необхідно враховувати анатомічну мінливість іннервації обличчя людей в залежності від форми та типу будови лицевого відділу їх черепа, що диктує необхідність розробки нових методів провідникової анестезії периферійних гілок трійчастого та великого вушного нервів. Нами розпрацьовано безпечні методики провідникових анестезій цих нервів.
ПОКАЗНИКИ КІСТКОВОГО МЕТАБОЛІЗМУ У ХВОРИХ НА ГЕНЕРАЛІЗОВАНИЙ ПАРОДОНТИТ ПРИ ДІАБЕТИЧНІЙ ОСТЕОПАТІЇ В ОЦІНЦІ ПРОГНОЗІВ РЕЗУЛЬТАТІВ ДЕНТАЛЬНОЇ ІМПЛАНТАЦІЇ
Authors: Гудар’ян О.О. , Чередник Д.О.
Published: October 2023

ваний пародонтит, ускладнений цукровим діабетом 2 типу, представляють групу ризику при проведенні дентальної імплантації. Інгібування кісткової резорбції, активізації мінералізації та кісткоутворення залежать від стану кісткового метаболізму. Тому вивчення клініко-лабораторних даних прояву остеоінтеграції у пацієнтів з генералізованим пародонтитом та цукровим діабетом, в залежності від особливості варіабельності кісткового метаболізму представляють великий інтерес. Мета дослідження – пошук діагностичних підходів з виявлення різної варіабельності кісткового метаболізму та співставлення його з особливостями остеоінтеграції дентальних імплантатів. Матеріали і методи дослідження. У комплексне клініко-лабораторне дослідження було включено 166 хворих, що потребували дентальної імплантації у віці від 35 до 50 років (в середньому 42,5±2,34 роки), серед яких 99 (59,6 %) жінок та 67(40,4 %) чоловіків. Діагноз – генералізований пародонтит 1–2 ступеню тяжкості був встановлений в усіх хворих, при цьому: швидкопрогресуючий – у 90 випадках; хронічний – у 76 пацієнтів. За участю лікаря-ендокринолога в дослідження були включені пацієнти тільки з компенсованою та субкомпенсованою формою цукрового діабету 2 типу. Контрольну групу склали 19 майже здорових донорів-добровольців без ендокринної патології у віці від 35–50 років (середній вік 41,5±2,7), що мали інтактні зуби та здорові тканини пародонту. Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. Аналіз отриманих даних лабораторних досліджень показав, у хворих на швидкопрогресуючий генералізований пародонтит із діабетичною остеопатією і швидкопрогресуючий генералізований пародонтит без фонової патології чітко простежується більш глибоке розбалансування процесів кісткового ремоделювання з високим рівнем остеорезорбції, і значним зниженням остеогенезу, що обумовлює прискорення деструкції кісткової тканини пародонта і її втрату. Одночасно виявлено, що у хворих з деструктивним ураженням пародонтальних тканин за умови відсутності у них системної діабетичної кісткової патології реєструється менш виражене зниження рівнів маркерів кісткоутворення і маркерів кісткової резорбції. Висновки. Наші дослідження та отримані дані лабораторних досліджень свідчать про те, що при наявності діабетичної остеопатології до і після встановлення дентальних імплантатів у даного контингенту вкрай необхідний динамічний контроль за рівнем показників кісткового метаболізму.
The Relationship between the Distinctive Capabilities of Creative Personality and Perceived Organizational Readiness for Strategic Change of the Directors of the Egyptian Telecommunications Company
Authors: Mostafa Mohammed Mohammed Sanaa
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between the distinctive capabilities of the creative personality and the perceived organizational readiness for strategic change. The study followed the quantitative analytical approach as a method for the study. The study was applied on a sample of (319) individuals working in the Egyptian Telecommunications Company who were selected from a community of (1850) individuals. The study found that the degree of awareness of individuals of the distinctive capabilities of the creative personality and organizational readiness for strategic change was medium. The study also found that there is a direct significant relationship between distinctive capabilities of the creative personality and the organizational readiness for strategic change. The study suggests to the company a compensatory mix suitable for individuals with special creativity capabilities to maintain them, to develop leadership skills within the company and to build business systems and procedures associated with change strategies in order to maximize the creative capabilities of human resources and increase their value and competitiveness.
THE IMPACT OF WOMEN DIRECTORS AND SHARE PERFORMANCE IN ASEAN COUNTRIES: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW
Authors: Abdul Rani Yusmie , Yusoff Wan Sallha , Md Salleh Mohd Fairuz , Abdul Ghani Mohd Rosli
Published: October 2023

The participation of women on boards of directors and the performance of companies has always been a subject of debate among academic experts, prompting governments and policymakers to update and establish regulations to encourage women's participation on boards to make crucial decisions for businesses. Numerous academic studies have been undertaken in business, economics, finance, accounting, and the social sciences to study the effects of women directors on firm performance, operations, value, and share performance. On the basis of prior empirical investigations, the results have not yet achieved a definitive reference point for stakeholders such as boards of directors, companies, shareholders, investors, and governments. However, such research is still scarce in ASEAN nations. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive literature analysis concerning the impact of women directors on share performance in the share markets of Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. This study will examine the theoretical and empirical elements of the connection between women directors and share performance in order to identify research gaps for the future. Several crucial components of theory, operations, measurement, contextualization, and methodology have been identified in empirical investigations. The conclusions of this study cannot yet be applied to broader contexts, sectors, or people, as determined by a review of relevant prior research. In addition, this paper outlines other research avenues that should be pursued to gain a deeper knowledge of women directors and share performance. Based on the outcomes of this study, it can be stated that the conclusions of previous research remain inconsistent. Finally, the study's policy, theoretical, and practical consequences are examined.
THE IMPACT OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS AND SHARE PERFORMANCE IN ASEAN COUNTRIES: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Abdul Rani Yusmie , Yusoff Wan Sallha , Muhd Yusuf Dayang Hasliza , Abdul Ghani Mohd Rosli
Published: October 2023

The composition of directors on boards of directors has always been a major topic in studies related to corporate governance to examine its impact on firm performance as well as share performance. Independent directors have become a crucial element in academic debates regarding their presence on boards. Issues related to independent directors have prompted governments and policymakers to update or enforce existing regulations to ensure compliance among firms in increasing their numbers on boards for making the best decisions and overseeing management to safeguard the interests of shareholders. Many academic studies have been conducted in specific areas to assess the effects of independent directors on firm performance, operations, value, and share performance, including in business, economics, finance, accounting, and social sciences. However, the results of previous empirical studies have not yet been consistent enough to serve as a reference for stakeholders such as boards of directors, firms, shareholders, investors, and governments. Meanwhile, such studies are still lacking in ASEAN countries. Therefore, this study aims to critically review existing literature on the impact of the relationship between independent directors and share performance in three ASEAN countries (Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia). Furthermore, to identify existing gaps, this study identified several key aspects from a theoretical, contextual, operational, methodological, and measurement perspective in previous empirical research. Based on the results of research in the existing literature, they have not yet been generalized to a broader context, sector, and population. Therefore, to enhance deeper understanding, this study will propose various research avenues related to independent directors and share performance. Hence, based on this study, it can be concluded that the results of existing research are still inconclusive and mixed. Finally, the implications of this study on policy, theory, and practice are discussed.
THE EFFECT OF SOCIOSCIENTIFIC ISSUES WITH THINKING WHEEL MAPS ON ENTREPRENEURIAL SCIENCE THINKING AMONG YEAR FIVE STUDENTS
Authors: Ahmad Jamilah , Siew Nyet Moi
Published: October 2023

This study was conducted to examine the impact of the socioscientific issue approach with the help of a thinking wheel map (SI-TM) on entrepreneurial science thinking and the constructs of Observation, New Ideas, Innovation, Creativity, and Value. A teaching and learning module was developed as a guide for teachers in implementing the SI-TM method in improving entrepreneurial science thinking among Year Five students. A quasi-experimental quantitative study was conducted on 345 Year Five students in an urban primary school in Tawau, Sabah. A total of three groups were divided randomly, namely i) Socioscientific Issues Approach with the help of Thinking Wheel Map (SI-TM, n=115), ii) Socioscientific Issues Approach (SI, n=115) and iii) Conventional Method (CONV, n=115). The Entrepreneurial Science Thinking Test Instrument (EST) was developed to measure the level of entrepreneurial science thinking. Data analysis was performed using MANCOVA, ANCOVA, and Effect Size. The results of the MANCOVA analysis show that there is a significant effect across the three groups of teaching and learning methods for entrepreneurial science thinking. Meanwhile, the results of the ANCOVA analysis have shown that there is a significant effect of the SI-TM method compared to the SI and CONV methods on entrepreneurial science thinking, the construct of Observation, New Ideas, Innovation, Creativity, and Value. The SI-TM method showed a higher mean posttest score compared to the SI method, then the mean SI posttest score was significantly higher than the CONV method in all constructs studied except the Observation construct. The findings of this study prove that the SI-TM module has a positive impact on the cultivation of entrepreneurial science thinking among Year Five students.
SELF AND OTHERS STIGMA, FACE-TO-FACE AND ONLINE ATTITUDE, AND INTENTIONS TO SEEK COUNSELING: A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODEL
Authors: Prim Lorrence , Janaban Kurt Willie , Rungduin Teresita , Rungduin Darwin
Published: October 2023

The effect of personal and perceived stigmatization on attitudes towards counseling in face-to-face and online modalities, as well as the intent to seek school counseling, was investigated in this study. The researchers used a descriptive correlational and quasi-experimental research design to come up with a structural equation model. 439 participants completed the survey measuring self-stigma, perceived stigma, attitudes in face-to-face and online counseling, and counseling-seeking intentions. Results indicated that self-stigma and perceived stigma were negatively associated with attitudes toward face-to-face and online counseling, as well as intentions to seek counseling. Attitudes toward counseling in face-to-face modality were positively related to intentions to seek counseling, while attitudes toward online counseling did not significantly affect intentions. From this, a structural equation model was generated. It indicates that stigmatization by others predicts the stigmatization by self and influences how comfortable adolescents are with counseling in both online and face-to-face modalities. This stigmatization by self and discomfort then predicts the way adolescents place importance on the two counseling modalities which in turn predicts the level of school counseling-seeking intention they have for various concerns. These findings highlight the importance of addressing stigma to promote positive attitudes toward counseling and increase help-seeking intentions.