bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the X-ray diffraction analysis method for in situ study of the formation processes of ultra- and nanosized iron oxide/hydroxide phases in the Fe0(Steel3)-H2O-O2 system: features and results
Authors:   Ovcharenko Institute of Biocolloidal Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Prokopenko V. A. , Netreba S. V. ,   Ovcharenko Institute of Biocolloidal Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Tsyganovych O. A. ,   Ovcharenko Institute of Biocolloidal Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kosorukov P. O. ,   Ovcharenko Institute of Biocolloidal Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: June 2024

The relevance of obtaining new samples of nanoscale materials and researching ways to control these processes is supported by constant progress in the fields of nanotechnology, semiconductors, biomedicine, wastewater treatment etc. The Fe0(Steel3)-H2O-O2 system, which is considered promising for use in the specified industries, allows both obtaining a number of nanoscale phases of iron oxygen-containing compounds (IOCs), in particular magnetite, cobalt ferrous ferrite, iron(III) hydroxide oxides, and controlling these processes due to changes in the physicochemical conditions of the process. Taking into account the permanent change in the specified system of phase composition on the metal surface, the method of X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) was applied using the created additional device for the goniometric attachment GP-13 for the in situ study of IOCs formation processes on the surface of a steel disc in the system Fe0(St3)-H2O-O2. This made it possible to investigate the mechanisms and optimal conditions for the formation of individual ultradisperse and nanosized phases of IOCs under a number of physicochemical conditions. By calculating the area under the characteristic peaks on the in situ XRD patterns, quantitative ratios of IOCs formed under certain physicochemical conditions were found, and the average size of crystallites was calculated according to Scherer's formula, which provided additional information for the analysis of IOCs formation mechanisms. Along with this, the method of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the XRD without an additional in situ device were used. Based on the analysis of the obtained kinetic regularities, conclusions were made about the formation of IOCs by the formation of iron (II-III) hydroxycarbonate and hydroxysulfate layered double hydroxides I and II types, followed by their transformation to the final nanoscale phases of magnetite, cobalt ferrous ferrite, and iron(III) hydroxide oxides. The formation and accumulation of ferrous hydroxide phase was not recorded by the XRD in situ, however, in the Fe0(St3)-H2O-O2 system, the formation of iron (II-III) layered double hydroxides based on its monolayers is not excluded. The preference of carbonate anions over chloride anions in the formation processes of iron layered double hydroxides is shown.
Production, physico-chemical and biomedical study of hemostatic powder composition based on nanosized silica
Authors:   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Gerashchenko I. I. , Chepliaka O. M. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Stepanyuk K. O. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Pakhlov E. M. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Krupska T. V. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: June 2024

Blood loss is one of the main causes of death, especially in war and natural disasters. At the beginning of the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war we established the laboratory and later the industrial production of a powdered topical hemostatic composition based on nanosilica which is intended for providing first pre-medical aid. The composition contains nanosized silica A-300 and sodium alginate as two active ingredients in a mass ratio of 4:1. The aim of the work was to develop the optimal technological process for the production of a hemostatic composition and carry out physico-chemical and medical-biological studies of semi-finished products and the final product. Bulk density measurements, optical microscopy, IR spectroscopy method and microbiological research were used to study the initial materials, intermediate products as well as the final product. The effectiveness of the hemostatic effect of the composition was checked on the model of parenchymal bleeding from the liver of a rat, using the time to stop bleeding (min) as a criterion. As a result of the research, a two-stage method of manufacturing the composition is proposed: at the first stage, certain parts of the initial materials are treated in a ball mill, obtaining the semi-finished product "A-300/sodium alginate"; at the second stage, this semi-finished product is mixed with nanosilica and sodium alginate, obtaining the final product. It is shown that the bulk density serves as a useful technological parameter to control of which helps to produce a structurally homogeneous final product. In the IR spectra of the semi-finished product and the finished product, only the absorption bands of silica and sodium alginate are observed, that is, foreign substances are not formed during technological process. The microbiological purity of the composition meets the pharmacopoeial requirements for drugs of this category. An experimental study of the topical hemostatic effect of the composition revealed its significant advantage compared to the inorganic hemostatic substance kaolin, which acts according to a similar adsorption mechanism.
Composite medical systems based on hydrophobic silica and gelatin
Authors:   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Krupska T. V. , Vitiuk N. V. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Klymenko N. Yu. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Siora I. V. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Turov V. V. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: June 2024

The use of hydrophobic silicas as medical adsorbents in comparison with hydroxyl silicas allows to increase the adsorption of some toxins on their surface due to the reduction of water adsorption. The purpose of this study was to find a co-adsorbate that, adsorbed on a hydrophobic surface, would allow the preparation of aqueous suspensions of an enterosorbent based on methylsilica, and, once inside the body, would be easily destroyed by the enzymes of the gastrointestinal tract, freeing its surface for the adsorption of toxins on it. The structure of the hydrate shell and the adsorption capacity of composite materials based on methyl silica and gelatin obtained by different methods were investigated by a set of physical and chemical methods. Low-temperature 1H NMR-spectroscopy has been used to study of water clusters bound to composite surface. It has been found that the water in the composite on the basis of hydrophobic methyl silica and gelatin gel is present in the form of clusters with a radius of 0.5–15 nm and is in a strongly associated state when measured in air. When a liquid hydrophobic medium is added, the water partially passes into a weakly associated state. The bound water reacts to the presence of chloroform by changing the radial distribution of the adsorbed water clusters. It has been shown that for the composite system methyl silica AM-1/gelatin (5/1), the introduction of chloroform into the interfacial space leads to a significant decrease in the interfacial energy, which indicates a partial displacement of water by the hydrophobic solvent at the interface. At the same time, for composites made on the basis of dry powders, this effect is not observed and its interfacial energy has an intermediate value between the interfacial energies of methyl silica and gelatin containing the same amount of water. Adsorption of Congo red as the medium molecular weight toxins marker from aqueous solutions on the studied composites was studied in comparison with methylsilica. It has been found that gelatin in the composition of composites contributes to increasing dye adsorption. The amount of adsorbed Congo red depends on the method of preparation of the composite and the ratio of silica to gelatin. It is concluded that AM-1/gelatin composite systems can serve as effective adsorbents for removing medium molecular weight molecules from aqueous solutions.
Adsorption of pharmaceuticals by the hydrolysis lignin surface
Authors:   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Golovkova L. P. , Markitan O. V. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: June 2024

An important environmental problem is the removal of contaminants and the purification of domestic and industrial water from pollutants of various nature. There is a separate issue of cleaning the effluents of pharmaceutical enterprises. Various chemical and physical methods are used to solve these problems, such as settling, coagulation, filtration, and sorption techniques. Adsorption with using efficient and reusable adsorbents is the most effective and cheap. In recent years special attention has been paid to the use of sorption materials based on hydrolysis lignin, which has a high sorption activity in relation to ions of some heavy metals, dyes, organic compounds and pharmaceuticals. The use of lignin as an adsorbent simultaneously solves two problems: the disposal of paper production waste and the purification of sewage from various types of pollutants. The aim of this work was to study the sorption properties of hydroylysis lignin in aqueous solution in relation to some medical substances of different chemical nature, existing in solution in cationic, anionic or neutral forms. The point of zero charge of hydrolysis lignin was determined, which is equal to рНPZC = 4.95. The adsorption of rivanol, proflavin, doxorubicin, levofloxacin, furacilin, and salicylic acid by hydrolysis lignin was studied as dependence on the pH of the solutions and the concentration of adsorbates. It was found that adsorption largely depends on the structure of the pharmaceuticals and the pH values of the solutions. It is shown that the studied medical compounds, which exist in the solution in the form of cations, are adsorbed the best (rivanol, proflavin, doxorubicin). Adsorption of these substances occurs mainly due to electrostatic interaction with negatively charged surface groups. Adsorption of anionic form (salicylic acid) is the smallest and is observed only at quite low pH values. Levofloxacin is adsorbed mainly in the form of zwitter ions, and furacilin is in neutral form. The adsorption of these both compounds occupies an intermediate value of adsorption amount. The obtained adsorption isotherms are well lined up in Langmuir coordinates. Quantitative parameters of adsorption values - of maximum adsorption and equilibrium constants were calculated. Quite high values of these parameters indicate that hydrolysis lignin can be used as an adsorbent for the removal of these pharmaceuticals.
Exploring the perceived effects of Destructive Leadership on employees' psychological empowerment: An Azerbaijan retail context
Authors: Hoffman Ettiene Paul , Sergio Rommel Pilapil , Chabani Zakariya , Ajuha Jaya
Published: June 2024

Azerbaijan's dynamic and diverse retail landscape is driving an escalating demand for motivated personnel, both locally and globally, to address sustainable development requirements. In competitive and demanding retail environments, the success of organizations can rely on confident, skilled, motivated, and informed employees to meet challenging business demands and inclusive growth. As Azerbaijan's retail competitive edge continues to expand, there is a heightened need for effective employer-employee interactions and strategic human capital to navigate intricate organizational hurdles. The targeted population for this study included current retail employees, and semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 participants from 15 different retail service organizations were conducted. Hence, this research study addresses a crucial gap in leadership literature by examining the interplay between destructive leadership and employees' psychological empowerment, encompassing dimensions like meaningfulness, self-determination, competence, and impact. Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study delves into the real-life experiences of employees within the Azerbaijani retail sector. The study concludes that destructive leadership can significantly hamper employees' psychological empowerment, resulting in negative impacts on their work role orientation, engagement, productivity, and commitment.
Digital visibility and competitive edge: Analyzing the impact of territorial marketing on regional competitiveness
Authors: Nemyrovska Oksana , Ievseitseva Olena
Published: June 2024

This study explores the relationship between territorial marketing and branding and a country's regional competitiveness and aims to assess the impact of marketing strategies and policies of cities and territories on that regional competitiveness. Two hypotheses are examined. The first hypothesis suggests that improving a city's visibility on the Internet attracts tourists and foreign investors. The second hypothesis highlights the importance of high-quality information content on city websites to enhance competitiveness. The study conducts a comprehensive analysis of European countries to evaluate the impact of territorial marketing on competitiveness. This includes correlation analysis of competitiveness indices, analysis of Google Trends search queries to identify city name search trends, and content analysis of city websites to assess marketing quality. The findings reveal that cities with rich historical and cultural attractions are gaining popularity online, consequently increasing their competitiveness in both the tourism and investment sectors.
Analysis of the attractiveness of the fortress landscape of Warsaw Fortress in the context of a contemporary city.
Authors: Jastrzębska Justyna , Zaraś Ewa
Published: June 2024

Twierdza Warszawa, zbudowana w XIX wieku, stanowi ważny element dziedzictwa historycznego stolicy Polski. Jednak w miarę rozwoju miasta, jej rola i znaczenie uległy zmianom. Celem tej analizy jest zrozumienie, jakie czynniki wpływają na atrakcyjność tego obszaru krajobrazowego w dzisiejszych czasach oraz jakie wyzwania stoją przed jego zachowaniem i ochroną. W artykule przedstawiono wyniki badania przeprowadzonego na podstawie analizy oraz konsultacji z mieszkańcami. Skupiono się na identyfikacji unikalnych cech krajobrazu fortecznego, które przyciągają mieszkańców i turystów, a także na czynnikach, które mogą wpływać na jego degradację. Wyniki analizy wskazują, że Twierdza Warszawa nadal posiada potencjał atrakcyjności jako miejsce kulturowe i turystyczne, zwłaszcza dzięki swojej historycznej wartości i architektonicznej różnorodności. Jednakże rosnące wyzwania związane z rozwojem miasta, takie jak urbanizacja, zmiany infrastrukturalne i presja deweloperska, stawiają przed nią znaczne zagrożenia. Artykuł omawia również propozycje strategii ochrony i zrównoważonego rozwoju krajobrazu fortecznego Twierdzy Warszawa, które mogą pomóc w zachowaniu jej wartości historycznej i kulturowej, jednocześnie dostosowując ją do potrzeb współczesnego miasta.
Diversity of Parrotfish at Fishing Port, Kendari City, Southeast Sulawesi
Authors: Fekri Latifa , Asriyana Asriyana , Subhan Subhan , Disnawati Disnawati , Hatma Muhammad Iksan
Published: June 2024

Parrotfish are included in the group of herbivore fish which have an important role in aquatic ecosystems, especially in the maintenance of coral reefs. This study aimed to determine the diversity of parrotfish species in the Sodoha Fishing Port (TPI), Kendari City, Southeast Sulawesi. Identification of parrotfish species by Kuiter and Tonozuka, White, and Fishbase. The results of identification showed six species of parrotfish were obtained, namely Chlorurus microrhinos (Bleeker, 1854), C. bleekeri (Deeufort, 1940), C. strongylocephalus (Bleeker, 1855), Scarus rivulatus (Valenciennes, 1840), S. niger (Forsskål, 1775), dan S. chameleon (Choat & Randall, 1986). Utilization of parrot fish resources continues to increase by> 40% annually. Sustainable management of parrotfish is needed for the quality of the aquatic environment, especially coral reefs and the sustainability of their utilization.
Financial Analysis of Handline Tuna Fishing Units in Cilacap Ocean Fishing Port - Central Java
Authors: Aryanda Rico Evan , Perangin-angin Robet , Suharyanto Suharyanto , Haris Dendi , Sutono Dian , Hermawan Maman , Goenaryo Goenaryo
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility of the tuna handline business on ships based at the Cilacap Ocean Fisheries Port (PPS), Central Java. The financial analysis uses 6 indicators in determining business feasibility, including R/C Ratio, B/C Ratio, Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Payback Period (PP), and ROI (Return On Investment). Financial analysis based on 6 financial indicators obtained values including an R/C Ratio of 1.49, Payback Period (PP) for 4 years, Return On Investment (ROI) of 2.4%, Net Present Value (NPV) of IDR 3,738,751,559, B/C Ratio of 3.57 and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 48.2%. So that it can be stated that the tuna handline business is financially feasible.
The Composition of The Catch in The Danish Seine Operating in The Java Sea
Authors: Simanullang Rio Prasetyo , Suharyanto Suharyanto , Perangin-angin Robet
Published: June 2024

Fishing gear with a good level of environmental friendliness will be selective in fishing, by choosing the right location and using net mesh sizes that can select the fish to be caught. For this reason, this study was carried out to analyze the composition of the catch from the Pocket Drag Net. The types of fish caught in percentage are as follows: swanggi fish (Priacanthus tayenus) at 29.9%; etong fish (Abalistes stellaris) by 11.2%; mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson) by 0.14%; tiger grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) by 1.5%; yellowtail fish (Caesio teres) by 1.7%; red snapper (Lutjanus sp.) by 0.7%; Stingray (Dasiatis zugei) at 1.5%; Kurisi fish (Nemipterus japonicus) amounted to 22.2%; Ray shark (Rhynchobatus australiae) by 1.15%; Brown (Scolopsis taeniopterus) by 21.2%; and Manyung (Netuma thalassina) at 7.9%. Based on the percentage composition of the catch, Swanggi fish is the highest main catch fish with a percentage of 29.9% and the lowest main catch fish is red snapper, namely 0.7%. Meanwhile, by-catch fish such as mackerel were also caught with a percentage of 0.14%.
Quality Characteristics, Cold Chain System, Yield and Productivity of Frozen Tuna (Thunnus albacares) Steak Processing
Authors: Sayuti Mohammad , Rafiani Evi , Salampessy Randi B.S.
Published: June 2024

One of the prospective products that can be developed from tuna is frozen tuna. One processing technique to preserve tuna fish is generally through freezing. F frozen tuna steak is one of the many processed tuna products produced through freezing. The aim of the research is to analyze quality characteristics, application of the cold chain system, calculation of yield and productivity in the processing of frozen tuna steaks at PT. Wahyu Pradana Binamulia. The research method uses a qualitative descriptive method with research stages including process flow observation, organoleptic quality measurements, microbiology (ALT, E. coli, Salmonella), chemistry (histamine), yield calculations, productivity calculations. The data collection method was by directly following processing activities and interviews for the frozen tuna steak processing process, while other data was carried out by testing. The results of the research obtained the processing flow of frozen tuna steak at PT. Wahyu Pradana Binamulia has 23 stages. The organoleptic test results for raw materials have a value of 8 and the final product has a value of 9. The raw material test results for ALT are 6.2 x 103 col/g, Coliform <3 MPN/g, E. coli <3 MPN/g and Salmonella with negative results. The final product test results were ALT 5.5 x 103 col/g, Coliform <3 MPN/g, E. coli <3 MPN/g, and Salmonella with negative results. The histamine test results obtained were 6.9 ppm in the raw material and 7.4 ppm in the final product. Observation results of raw material and product temperatures ≤4.4°C, room temperature ≤20°C and air temperature ≤4.4°C. The yield at the weeding stage was 78.37%, loin formation was 69.40%, dark meat separation and skin removal was 60.77%, trimming was 45.11%, steak formation was 40.48%, retauching was 39. 02%. Employee productivity results at the weeding stage had an average value of 1,214.23 kg/hour/org, for the trimming stage 530.12 kg/hour/org, for the steak formation stage 599.66 kg/hour/org. It can be concluded. The research conclusions show that the quality of raw materials and frozen tuna steak products has met the established SNI standards.
The Comparative Study of The Effectiveness of Seawater Aging with Traditional Techniques and Water Heater Technique for Salt Production
Authors: Pasaribu Roberto Patar , Tanjung Anasri , Pranoto Aris Kabul , Ryani Rani Dewi
Published: June 2024

Salt is a product from marine resources which is a strategic commodity as an industrial raw material and food for the community. However, the condition of national salting is currently still not conducive, this is because salt production, both quantity and quality, is still insufficient and sufficient to meet national salt needs. This research aims to compare the effectiveness of traditional techniques and heating techniques in aging seawater for the seawater crystallization process in making salt. With this research, it is hoped that there will be the latest technological innovations to speed up the time for making salt with maintained quality, good quantity and profit so that national salt needs can be met. From this research it can be concluded that the use of heating techniques is more effective than traditional techniques because it can minimize the aging time of sea water and can increase the quantity of salt produced.
‘Language and Mediated Masculinities: Cultures, Contexts, Constraints’ Robert Lawson (2023)
Authors: Burnett Scott
Published: June 2024

Language and Mediated Masculinities: Cultures, Contexts, ConstraintsRobert Lawson (2023)Oxford University Press, 344pp.
Development of decision-making technology for the provision of services in project implementation
Authors: Mulesa Oksana , Yakob Evgen , Valko Petro , Sviezhentseva Oleksandra , Marhitych Dmytro
Published: June 2024

The object of research is decision-making processes regarding the provision of services within the framework of cross-border projects.
To achieve the aim of the research, an analysis of the service provision market was first conducted, its features have been revealed and problems arising in the processes of its functioning have been identified. The main problem is to find the optimal distribution of services between performers in the service management system. A mathematical model of the problem of single- and multi-criteria optimization has been developed, where the problem is decomposed into independent sub-problems. The problem is presented in the form of a linear programming problem. Various efficiency criteria of the found distributions are proposed. Depending on the number of criteria, the problem will be a single-criteria Boolean programming problem or a multi-criteria optimization problem. An iterative method for finding the optimal distribution of services has been created, and individual methods are laid out in the form of production rules, which is understandable and allows to gain new knowledge.
Based on the obtained data, a decision-making technology has been developed regarding the distribution of service consumers between performers. At the same time, decision-making methods were used, which allow optimizing the processes of service provision. A systematic approach was used when designing information technology. This made it possible to create an effective and problem-relevant technology that helps in making informed decisions about the distribution of services between participants of cross-border projects. A structural and functional diagram of the decision support system has been developed. Its structural elements are detailed.
The obtained results reflect a thorough analysis of the current state of the services market and the development of effective decision-making technology, which contributes to the optimization of work in the field of cross-border projects. This approach can be useful for various subjects involved in the implementation and coordination of international projects.
Changes in First and Second Births to Teenagers from 2000 to 2022: United States
Authors: Driscoll Anne K. , Ely Danielle M. , Hamilton Brady E.
Published: June 2024

This report provides health data from the National Center for Health Statistics.
Теоретичні підходи до трактування категорії «Брендинг регіонів»
Authors: Газуда С. М.
Published: June 2024

У статті обґрунтовано науково-теоретичні підходи до трактування сутнісного розуміння понять «бренд», «бренд місця», «бренд регіону». Метою дослідження є уніфікація теоретичних підходів до трактування категорії «брендинг регіонів» та пов’язаних з ним понять з поданням власного бачення їх змістовної наповнюваності. Науковою новизною та практичним значенням окреслюються узагальнення та обґрунтування багатогранності наукових трактувань бренду розглянутих крізь призму економічного, інструментального, поведінкового та етично-орієнтованого підходу. У процесі дослідження подано власне бачення трактування поняття «бренд» як системи якостей компанії або території (продукту або послуги), які демонструють високий ступінь відповідальності та соціальної свідомості, відповідають етичним стандартам, відмовляються від принципів, що можуть завдати шкоди суспільству або довкіллю, та взаємодіють з усіма стейкхолдерами, а також поняття «бренд регіону» як системи якостей території, які формують люди, що представляють регіон, відображаючи його ідентичність, культуру, побут та інші аспекти, які привертають увагу споживачів.
Political Branding: Subterfuge or the New Mode of Governance?
Authors: Bialas Bartolomeo Rafael
Published: June 2024

Objective: This paper aims to determine whether scholars writing on the subject of political branding and political brands consider political branding to be an artifice or an evolved strategic outlook useful – and necessary – in our current political context.
Research Design & Methods: This is a theoretical paper. The critical review of the literature on political branding research, encompassing articles published between 2016 and 2023, was conducted; seven full-text publications from the EBSCO database were critically analysed.
Findings: My conclusion suggests that the vast majority of scholars writing on the subject of political branding view political branding as a strategic device – both a framework and communication vehicle – useful and necessary in our contemporary political context.
Implications/Recommendations: This paper makes a managerial contribution to the political branding body of knowledge. The analysis of the writings of numerous scholars within the area of political branding indicates that the development of strong and appealing political brands helps political parties and political leaders in effective communication with voters-consumers. Political branding emerges as a necessary tool that should be used by political strategists to ensure that the relationships between politicians/political parties and voters-consumers are deepened and relevant, and the visions and messages communicated by the political actors are cohesive, clearly articulated, concentrated, and well-understood by the voters-consumers.
Contribution/Value Added: This paper is original in showcasing the dominant and overarching approaches and ideas among scholars writing on the subject of political branding.
Article classification: theoretical/review paper
Keywords: political branding, political brand(s), voters-consumers, political marketing
JEL classification: M00, M3, and M38
Actors in Environmental Discourse: The Discursive Institutionalism Perspective
Authors: Mirzyńska Anna
Published: June 2024

Objective: Examined for years in various contexts, the environmental issue does not directly focus on the involve- ment of actors in the process of discourse institutionalisation, which is achievable through the application of discursive institutionalism. The aim of the study is to characterise actors involved in the environmental discourse studied using the discursive intuitionalism approach: who participates in discourses, with whom they co-participant, and based on which sources of discourse records their presence is studied.
Research Design & Methods: A systematic review examined 185 DI articles from 2004 to 2022, selecting 33 focused on environmental topics for content analysis.
Findings: Seven actor groups in environmental discourse were identified, with government, experts, and NGOs being the most frequent participants. Government predominated in co-occurrence, and discourse records mainly originated from government documents, legislative materials, and reports.
Implications/Recommendations: Further research is recommended to delve into actor profiles, explore the relationship between discourse source selection and actor appearance, and observe trends in DI research methods. Emphasising inclusive representation in environmental discourse is crucial for policymakers.
Contribution/ Value Added: Participation in environmental discourse is dominated by actors with specialised knowledge or resources, responsible for shaping political agenda goals. This results in low representation of unaffiliated citizens, business, and media.
Article classification: research article
Keywords: environmental discourse, environmental policy, discursive institutionalism, actors, environmental economics
JEL classification: Q5, H8
Facile preparation of a PbS:Ni nanostructure using solid state synthesis route: microstructural, dielectric, and electrical properties
Authors:   Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Science, Sultan Amir ,   Department of Physics, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Ahmad Mushtaq ,   Department of Physics, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Khan Muhammad Zubair ,   Department    of    Materials    Science    and    Engineering,    Pak-Austria Fachhochschule:  Institute  of  Applied  Sciences  and  Technology, Rehman Junaid ur ,   Materials Science Engineering and Commercialization (MSEC), Texas State University, Hanif Muhammad Bilal ,   Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Motola Martin ,   Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava
Published: June 2024

In the present study, a novel PbS:Ni (10 at. %) nanostructure was synthesised via a simple solid state reaction method at 400 °C and constant pressure. X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the formation of a face-centred cubic crystalline structure. Preferential growth is observed along the (311) plane direction. The calculated crystallite size of PbS:Ni (10 at. %) from XRD analysis was found to be equal to 65 nm. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation of nanostructured PbS:Ni (10 at. %) materials. Its band gap of ~ 2.14 eV was determined by photoluminescence spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy was used to confirm the structure of the material. Electrical properties were studied by I-V characteristic at ± 5 V and a temperature range from 100 K to 300 K. The lnV-lnI plot showed a non-linear behaviour of PbS:Ni (10 at. %). Impedance spectroscopy is applied at temperatures from 100 K to 300 K in a frequency range from 20 Hz to 2 MHz to observe the dielectric response of PbS:Ni (10 at. %). As obtained, ε′ ~ 26 and conductivity in the order of 10–4 S · cm–1 were obtained at all temperatures above 104 Hz. The results obtained from photoluminescence spectroscopy, I-V characteristics and impedance spectroscopy confirm that PbS:Ni (10 at. %) can be considered as a suitable material for optoelectronic applications.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN ALGORITHM TO EVALUATE THE PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY OF EXPANSION OF SOLAR AND WIND POWER GENERATION IN THE APPALACHIAN REGION
Authors: McCullough Ashley , Bischof Lillian , Alexander Ronald , Agbleze Selorme , Lima Fernando  V.
Published: June 2024

The United States is dependent on fossil fuels for energy production because 12% of energy consumed
in the US in 2021 was derived from renewable resources as cited by the US Energy Information Administration.
Some regions present strong capabilities for renewable energy systems to offset the use of fossil fuels and satisfy increasing energy demands. To expand renewable energy infrastructure in the US, the feasibility and locational applicability of these systems must be studied concurrently. The objective of this article is to propose an algorithm that sites and provides economic indicator estimates
for potential large-scale renewable generation facilities. Through this algorithm, potential sites are selected, based on solar or wind energy potential as estimated by the EPA RE-Powering Initiative, and validated using the System Advisor Model (SAM). Then, recorded interval demand and pricing for the site's region is collected in AVEVA PI. Leveraging approximate plant sizing, relevant weather data, and plant specifications, plant operations are simulated in SAM. When paired with realistic Power Purchase Agreement prices, estimates of financial and energy-generation metrics are obtained.
This proposed algorithm is accompanied by case studies in Appalachia. Results show that selected
sites could have a nominal levelized price of electricity below the national average, highlighting the
potential for these sites to sell at competitive market prices. Due to the accuracy of this algorithm,
such models could be combined with fossil fuel power plants to develop a real-time optimization framework and provide realistic ramping rates for advanced control studies of fossil fuel power plants in the future.
Comparative Brain Microanatomical and Neurochemical Alterations Following the Administration of Seven Oral Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapies in Swiss Mice
Authors:   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Uyo, Nigeria., Edagha Innocent A. ,   Department of Human Anatomy, School of Medicine, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya., Douglas Promise E. ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Uyo, Nigeria., Peter Aniekan I. ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Uyo, Nigeria.,   Department of Anatomy, College of Health Sciences, Bowen University, Nigeria., Aquaisua Aquaisua N. ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Uyo, Nigeria., Akpan Blessing C. ,   Department of Chemical Pathology, Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria., Edagha Edelungudi I. ,   Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Clinical Science, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Nigeria., Ataben Moses A. ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Uyo, Nigeria.
Published: June 2024

Over a decade after artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) approval as the most preferred anti-malarial drug. Seven ACTs can be sourced as over-the-counter medications in most African pharmacies without prescription. A comparative neurotoxicity of these ACTs was investigated in an in vivo experimental model. Swiss mice numbering 40, weighing 18 - 26 g were allotted to eight groups (n = 5). Group 1 (normal control [NC]), received distilled water 10 mL, while groups 2 to 8 were administered (5.71 mg artesunate+amodiaquine [AA]); (19.29 mg artesunate+mefloquine [AM]); (10.36 mg artesunate+sulfadoxine+pyrimethamine [ASP]); (19.29 mg artesunate+pyronaridine [APy]); (12.5 mg artemisinin+piperaquine [AP]); (15.42 mg dihydroartemisinin+piperaquine [DP]); and (8 mg artemether+lumefantrine [AL]) per kg body weights, respectively orally for 3 days, but for 2 days in group 6. Animals were sacrificed 24 hrs after last administration under ketamine anaesthesia (100 mg/kg, i.p), and excised brains were evaluated for neurochemical and neurohistological alterations. Oxidative stress markers: malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione significantly (p < 0.05) increased as well as antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase in ACT-administered groups compared to NC. Neurohistology of hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) and cerebellum demonstrated vacuolations, neuronal hypertrophy and atrophy pyramidal, and Purkinje neurons. Immunohistochemistry with glial fibrillary acidic protein antibody demonstrated mild to mostly severe astrogliosis in the ACT-administered groups. In conclusion, oxidative stress markers and antioxidants were elevated in the order DP>APy>AP>ASP>AA>AL>AM. Together with the neurohistology, neurotoxicity were in the order DP>ASP>APy>AP>AL>AA>AM particularly in the hippocampus compared to the cerebellum. KEYWORDS: Artemisinin-based combination therapies, Cerebellum, CA1 region of the hippocampus, Neurodegeneration, Oxidative stress.
Study of OSPE as a Method of Assessment in the Anatomy: Implementation and Attitude among MBBS students
Authors:   Professor, Anatomy Department Pt. B. D. Sharma PGIMS Rohtak (India)., Malik Vivek Singh , Ghalawat Neeru ,   Assoc. Professor, Anatomy Department Pt. B. D. Sharma PGIMS Rohtak  (India), Garsa Vipin Kumar ,   Professor, Anatomy Department Pt. B. D. Sharma PGIMS Rohtak (India)., Soni Gargi ,   Senior Lecturer, University of Central Lancashire (U. K. )
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Competency-based medical education (CBME) emphasizes outcome-based learning evaluation and assessment. Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) is a valid, reliable, and objective tool suggested in the anatomy curriculum. OSPE modules were developed and implemented in anatomy for first-year MBBS Students, and the perception of first-year MBBS students about OSPE was studied. Methods: This study was conducted on 50 MBBS students of the 2021 admission year in the Department of Anatomy after approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Feedback survey questionnaires were prepared and validated by the subject experts and MEU members to study students' perceptions of OSPE. Students' perceptions were noted on a 5-point Likert scale. Data was entered through Google Forms and analyzed. Results: 93.2% of students believed that OSPE made learning competencies easier for them. Only 13.7% of students felt that time devoted to OSPE assessment was inadequate. 79.6% of students were of the opinion that It made them confident in all aspects of addressed competencies. 88.6% of students felt that OSPE improved their ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills of addressed competencies. 88.6% of students were of the view that OSPE is a satisfactory method of assessing their capabilities as a student. 83.7% of students ' opinion was that it would help them in learning the competencies of Anatomy. In the opinion of 93.2% of students, OSPE should be a regular method of assessment. 81.8% of students agreed that OSPE was a feasible exercise. Conclusions: The study concluded that implementing OSPE as a method of assessment in Anatomy for first-year MBBS Students is feasible and acceptable. 93 percent of students believe this method makes learning competencies easier for them. KEYWORDS: OSPE, Assessment, Anatomy, Perception, Competency, Curriculum.
Investigation of Usability of Sepiolite as a Pozzolan in Production of High Performance Cementitious Composites
Authors: Saka Rasim Cem , Subaşı Serkan
Published: June 2024

The continuous growth of population and urbanization in the world significantly increases the demand for cement. In terms of sustainability, the cement industry needs to develop new and effective pozzolans with the appropriate recycling of alternative raw materials. It is also important to evaluate sepiolite, which has very limited resources in the world compared to other industrial minerals and whose economic deposits are limited to Spain and Türkiye. In this study, the usability of sepiolite as a pozzolan in cement and its effects on physical, mechanical and durability properties were investigated. First of all, the chemical and physical properties of sepiolite in Eskisehir region were investigated. Crude and ground sepiolite calcined at 500 ºC, 700 ºC and 900ºC were substituted for CEM I 42.5 R class standard Portland cement at 5-10-15% and 20% ratios. The pozzolanic activities of produced sepiolite substituted cement were determined according to ASTM C-311. As a result, crude sepiolite retains more water than calcined sepiolite, thus negatively affecting the strength properties of the concrete. Additionally, sepiolite is considered suspicious (harmful-harmless) in terms of alkali silica reactivity except 10%-15%-20% crude sepiolite substitutions. Overall, It has been observed that sepiolite does not have sufficient pozzolanic properties in cementitious composites.
Theoretical Analysis and Simulation of SiO2 and ZrO2 Based Antireflective Coatings to Improve Crystalline Silicon Solar Cell Efficiency
Authors: Kanmaz İmran
Published: June 2024

The Solar cell efficiency is crucial, and optical losses can hinder it significantly. Anti-reflective coatings are effective in minimizing these losses. In our study, we used Fresnel equations to calculate reflectance values for single-layer SiO2, ZrO2, a SiO2-ZrO2 mixture, and a double-layer SiO2/ZrO2 configuration. We then assessed their impact on crystalline silicon solar cells using the SCAPS program. The reflectance values of single-layer SiO2, ZrO2 and 10%SiO2-90%ZrO2 mixture were calculated as 19.17%, 13.09% and 13.01%, respectively. Notably, the double-layer SiO2/ZrO2 coating showed a low reflectance of 7.58%, a significant improvement compared to uncoated silicon at 37.45%. Efficiency values for crystalline silicon solar cells were calculated for single layer as 18,95% (SiO2), 20.39% (ZrO2), 20,40% (mixed coating) respectively and 21.68% for the double-layer SiO2/ZrO2 configuration.
Mattingly, David J. 2023. Between Sahara and Sea: Africa in the Roman Empire. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press; 978-0-47213-345-1 hardback $44.95.
Authors: Hingley Richard
Published: June 2024

This is a review of Between Sahara and Sea: Africa in the Roman Empire by David J. Mattingly, published in 2023 by the University of Michigan Press.
USO DO SMARTPHONE E SUA RELAÇÃO COM O SEDENTARISMO EM ESTUDANTES
Authors: Vaitz Medeiros Andressa , Regiani Bueno Glaukus , Antunes Mateus Dias
Published: June 2024

Introdução: os novos dispositivos como os smartphones vêm modificando e alterando a rotina de jovens, isso vem fazendo com que esses deixem as atividades físicas de lado, induzindo-os ao sedentarismo. Objetivo: Identificar a relação entre o uso do smartphone com o sedentarismo em estudantes. Métodos: trata-se de uma revisão sistemática por meio de buscas em periódicos nacionais e internacionais, indexados nas bases de dados Scielo, Lilacs, Pubmed e Web of Knowledge utilizando os descritores: Smartphone, Sedentarismo, Estudantes e Atividade Física. Foram incluídos artigos publicados entre os anos de 2010 e 2020, sendo encontrados 4.957 artigos, destes, apenas 13 estudos foram incluídos na análise. Resultados: foram apontados problemas relacionados à saúde, como: ansiedade e obesidade, com relação direta ao sedentarismo dos jovens, assim como distúrbios de sono, instabilidade de humor, depressão e alimentação inadequada. Apesar de um número crescente nas publicações ano a ano, existe uma associação incipiente da relação do uso dos smartphones com a inatividade física e consequentemente com o sedentarismo. Conclusão: o presente estudo permitiu verificar a imprudência dos jovens quanto à utilização excessiva dos meios digitais, em especial os smartphones, refletindo diretamente na sua saúde por meio da baixa realização de atividades físicas, e também nos alimentos consumidos, gerando assim, uma associação com o sedentarismo. Torna-se evidente a necessidade de interferência por parte dos pais e programas escolares, para utilização dos smartphones e outros dispositivos de forma benéfica a saúde dos jovens.
Palavras-Chave: Smartphone; Sedentarismo; Atividade Física; Estudantes; Promoção da Saúde.
AÇÕES EXTENSIONISTAS INTERDISCIPLINARES DESENVOLVIDAS COM MULHERES PRIVADAS DE LIBERDADE
Authors: Pommerehn Vitiello Isabel , Oliveira Roveda Patrícia , Meinhardt Najdzion Veronica , Raquel da Rosa Djennifer , Baumann Eduarda , Luiz Simon Everton , De Oliveira Regio Flávia , Job Sperb Juliete , Medianeira Rosa Affonso Juliana , Gonçalves Possuelo Lia
Published: June 2024

Objetivo: relatar as atividades de saúde e alimentação desenvolvidas pelo Projeto Acessibilidade e Saúde: Interdisciplinaridade em Ação e subprojeto Alimentação e Saúde do Programa Nacional de Reorientação Profissional em Saúde com mulheres privadas de liberdade. Método: trata-se de um relato de experiência extensionista interdisciplinar, de caráter quali-quantitativo, realizado no Presídio Estadual Feminino em Rio Pardo, Rio Grande do Sul, de julho a setembro de 2022. A equipe atua uma manhã por semana, junto às mulheres em situação de privação de liberdade. Foi realizada avaliação inicial mapeando dados sociodemográficos e condições de saúde por meio de instrumentos: nível de dependência tabágica (Questionário de Fagerström), qualidade do sono (Questionário de Pittsburgh), incontinência urinária (ICIQ-SF) e avaliação alimentar. São realizadas oficinas de cinesioterapia, mecanoterapia, nutrição e culinária. Resultados: participaram da cinesioterapia 47 mulheres com idade média de 33,4 anos e tempo de reclusão entre 7 dias e 5 anos, mais de 70% tabagistas com prevalência de alta dependência de nicotina, baixa escolaridade e sobrepeso, 44,6% relatou algum diagnóstico clínico, 59,5% quadro álgico, 65,5% uso de medicação e 53,1% algum tratamento. A qualidade do sono teve predominância em bom, entretanto 53,1% faz uso contínuo de indutores de sono. Além disso, 12 mulheres referiram perda urinária, 34 já estiveram grávidas, destas 50% realizaram cesariana. Quanto à alimentação, 27 mulheres responderam, destas 81,48% informou gostar da comida preparada e servida, todavia 59,25% referiu desconforto pós alimentação e 37,03% constipação. Conclusão: o Brasil apresenta a quarta maior população carcerária feminina mundial. A legislação prevê que a reintegração de mulheres privadas de liberdade na sociedade deve começar no sistema prisional, para que possam ter oportunidades de reinserção ao convívio social, sendo assim, ações extensionistas desta magnitude, nesta realidade e contexto são muito importantes, pois além dos benefícios ao público, propicia qualificação e humanização na formação acadêmica.
Palavras-Chave: Saúde; Penitenciária; Qualidade de vida; Vulnerabilidade.