bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Digital Transformation on Supply Chain Capabilities and Supply Chain Competitive Performance
Authors: Ning Lianju , Yao Dan
Published: June 2023

In the current highly uncertain external environment for businesses, maintaining a single competitive advantage in the supply chain is difficult in the long run. There is an urgent need to acquire a more comprehensive and sustainable competitive advantage, and the thriving digitalization is reshaping the industry structure and competitive dynamics. This study, based on data from 255 survey responses, employs a structural equation model to examine the relationships among environmental uncertainty, digital transformation, supply chain capabilities, and sustainable competitive performance in the supply chain context. Our findings reveal the significant role of digital transformation in enhancing supply chain capabilities, which in turn positively influence sustainable competitive performance. A further analysis shows that supply chain capabilities mediate the relationship between supply chain digital transformation and sustainable competitive performance. Moreover, environmental uncertainty can serve as a driving force for digital transformation, stimulating supply chains to enhance their exploration of digitalization. This research provides valuable insights into exploring sustainable competitive performance in the supply chain context. It addresses the gap in empirical literature regarding digital transformation research and enriches the field of the contingency theory.
Effect of Environmental Regulation on Energy-Intensive Enterprises’ Green Innovation Performance
Authors: Li Liang , Wang Yanghong , Tan Meixuen , Sun Huaping , Zhu Bangzhu
Published: June 2023

Promoting energy-intensive enterprises’ green innovation is essential for transitioning to a low-carbon economy. This study explores the promoting factors and influencing mechanisms that drive energy-intensive enterprises’ green innovation performance from the perspective of environmental regulation and the theory of planned behavior. A questionnaire was distributed to energy-intensive enterprises in China from February 2021 to March 2022, and various statistical analyses such as confirmatory factor analysis, reliability and validity analysis, structural equation modeling, and stepwise regression model analysis were conducted. The findings reveal that environmental regulation has a positive impact on energy-intensive enterprises’ environmental innovation prospective, stakeholder pressure, and innovation capability, respectively. In turn, this has a significant impact on enterprises’ green innovation performance. This study also found stakeholder pressure and green innovation capability to play an important role between environmental regulation and green innovation performance. It is better to promote enterprises’ green innovation prospective and innovation ability through environmental regulation to promote stakeholder pressure, in turn, that improve enterprises’ innovation performance. It is important to leverage these influencing factors to promote green innovation performance to achieve a carbon turning point.
Sustainable Communication Management Using the Balanced Scorecard: Evidence from a Japanese Hospital Based on Corporate Communication Theory
Authors: Huang Ying Sophie , Ito Kazunori , Nemoto Moeki
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a case study of a balanced scorecard at the Bethlehem Garden Hospital in Japan. About 80% of hospitals in Japan are running deficits, and each hospital must have sustainable management. The balanced scorecard is attracting attention as a hospital management tool in Japan. This paper aims to clarify the effectiveness of communication management using BSC. Since this theme is still under theoretical development, it will be analyzed by a case study. The research site is the Bethlehem Garden Hospital in Kiyose City, Tokyo, Japan, and it is a case study based on interviews, action research, and document analysis. This paper analyzes based on the framework of corporate communication and obtains several findings regarding BSC. In particular, it shows that using BSC as a tool for communication management may decrease the turnover rate. The case study shows that a balanced scorecard promotes strategy cascade and alignment for hospital staff. Furthermore, it suggests the possibility of leading to a decrease in turnover rate and an improvement in reputation. Namely, it indicates that BSC is a practical and sustainable communication management tool.
Biolysed Sludge Composting for Nitrogen Conservation and Humification Improvements and Mechanisms
Authors: Wang Hongyi , Chen Shihong , Gu Jun , Liu Yan , Yang Guangping , Su Wenqiang , Xie Yongfang , Zhu Jian , Yu Ran
Published: June 2023

Aerobic composting of conventional municipal sludge has always had the problems of nitrogen loss and low humification. In this study, biolysed sludge (BS), polyacrylamids-added sludge (PS) and Fe (III)/CaO-added sludge (FS) were used for composting, respectively, and their effect on the physical-chemical parameters, nitrogen conversion and humification during composting were investigated. The results showed that the dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentration of the BS pile (23.1 ± 0.4 g/kg) was 48.4% and 48.4% higher than the PS (15.5 ± 0.4 g/kg) and FS piles (15.5 ± 0.0 g/kg) in the initial stage of composting and became the lowest after composting, suggesting that the degradation of DOM was promoted in the BS pile. BS can also increase the retention rate of total nitrogen (TN) (27.8% ± 0.8%), higher than that in PS (22.7% ± 1.1%) and FS (24.6% ± 0.5%), which may be due to the lower production of ammonia nitrogen in the BS pile. Compared with PS and FS, BS provided more humic substance (HS) and humic acid (HA) for composting and the HA contents of the compost products were 34.4 ± 1.0, 35.4 ± 0.2 and 34.0 ± 0.3 mg/g in the PS, BS and FS treated piles, respectively. Fourier transform infrared and the excitation-emission matrix revealed that BS and FS promoted the aromaticity and stability of HA. The degree of polymerization (DP) of the products from the BS (1.48) and FS piles (1.56) was higher than that of the PS pile (1.36). However, the germination index (GI) value (133.4% ± 6.0%) of FS was lower than that of PS (152.3% ± 6.2%) and BS (158.3% ± 0.8%), showing that the products of FS composting contain more plant biotoxicity. Thus, compared with PS and FS, BS can increase the nitrogen retention rate and the maturity of the compost.
Sustainable Non-Conventional Concrete 3D Printing—A Review
Authors: Singh Narinder , Colangelo Francesco , Farina Ilenia
Published: June 2023

In this review article, system materials for concrete 2D printing have been discussed, along with the various other aspects that are connected to sustainable construction. The article consists of an introduction giving the background of manufacturing that started almost two decades ago, including the non-conventional methods of building structures. It has been seen that there are various stainable materials in the field of 3D printing in construction, as the conversion of construction to 3D printing reduces waste generation. Further in this article, the cost comparison between conventional and non-conventional construction methods has been discussed, including the effectiveness of 3D printing; 3D printing is very effective in the sense that it requires the precise use of machinery and construction material. Full-scale 3D printing has also been seen in the building sector, but only to some extent. Some of the components of bridges, and even some of small bridges, have been constructed using 3D printing and ultra-high-performance concrete. Since there are various advantages to 3D building, there are also various disadvantages to 3D printing, such as how much it costs and finding the materials that are suitable for 3D printing, which might increase the cost. Polymers have also been used in 3D printing construction since polymers have a very long lifespan, and polymers may increase the strength of the final product by reinforcing the aggregate. Additionally, this technology gives us the opportunity to use various materials together for construction, such as recycled aggregates and geopolymers, along with concrete and cement, which might pose some challenges but are being used nowadays. A major concern with this technology is its impact on the labor market. Since in traditional construction huge amounts of man hours are required, concerns have been raised about the inclusion of this technology, as this might affect employment. Since most of the work will be done by machines, the need for labor will reduce. These are some of the issues that need attention. Finally, this article discusses the novelty and future scope of 3D printing in the construction sector, and concludes by outlining the scope of potential developments for 3D printing concrete by taking into account sustainability.
A Novel Sustainable Reverse Logistics Network Design for Electric Vehicle Batteries Considering Multi-Kind and Multi-Technology
Authors: Fan Zhiqiang , Luo Yifan , Liang Ningning , Li Shanshan
Published: June 2023

With the expansion of the new energy vehicle market, electric vehicle batteries (EVBs) have entered a massive retirement wave. The strategic level of facility location and configuration decisions and the tactical level of multi-product flow and multi-technology selection decisions have been integrated into a sustainable reverse logistics network (SRLN). In this paper, we considered multiple kinds of waste electric vehicle batteries (WEVBs) with multiple recycling technology and constructed a multi-level SRLN model for WEVBs with the objectives of minimum economic costs and minimum carbon emissions. To solve this model, fuzzy set theory was applied to the equivalence transformation of constraints, non-interactive and interactive methods were used to solve the multi-objective planning (MOP), and interactive fuzzy programming with priority control was proposed to find the global optimal solution for this model. Finally, numerical experiments demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed model and solution method. The experimental results show that the SRLN model considering carbon emissions can significantly reduce carbon emissions of the network through a slight increase in the initial network construction cost, thus effectively balancing both economic and environmental objectives. In the non-interactive solution, the Lp-metric method has a lower deviation index than the weighted sum method; in the interactive solution, the priority control method proposed in this paper outperforms the TH method in terms of the number of practical solutions and CPU time and shows strong performance in searching and finding optimal solutions. The proposed model and method can provide the theoretical basis and technical support for a WEVB SRLN under the limited information uncertainty environment.
Receding Galerkin Optimal Control with High-Order Sliding Mode Disturbance Observer for a Boiler-Turbine Unit
Authors: Zhao Gang , Sun Yuge , Su Zhi-Gang , Hao Yongsheng
Published: June 2023

The control of the boiler-turbine unit is important for its sustainable and robust operation in power plants, which faces great challenges due to the control unit’s serious nonlinearity, unmeasurable states, variable constraints, and unknown time-varying lumped disturbances. To address the above issues, this paper proposes a receding Galerkin optimal controller with a high-order sliding mode disturbance observer in a composite scheme, in which a high-order sliding mode disturbance observer is first employed to estimate the lumped disturbances based on a deviation form of the mathematical model of the boiler-turbine unit. Subsequently, under the hypothesis of state constraint, a receding Galerkin optimal controller is designed to compensate the lumped disturbances by embedding their estimates into the mathematically based predictive model at each sampling time instant. With the help of an interpolation polynomial, Gauss integration, and nonlinear solvers, an optimal control law is then obtained based on a Galerkin optimization algorithm. Consequently, disturbance rejection, target tracking, and constraint handling performance of a controlled closed-loop system are improved. Some simulation cases are conducted on a mathematical boiler-turbine unit model to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, which is supported by the quantitative result analysis, such as tracking and disturbance rejection performance indexes.
Urban Adaptation to Climate Change State of the Art: Evaluating the Role of Adaptation Assessment Frameworks through a Systematic and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Boulanger Saveria Olga Murielle
Published: June 2023

Urban adaptation and resilience are essential aspects of climate change. The latest IPCC reports of 2022 recall the importance of taking concrete actions, especially through the implementation of actions able to make cities more resilient. However, the current scientific discourse predominantly revolves around policies, theoretical aspects and specific case studies. This study aims to provide an updated analysis of the existing scientific literature, with an additional focus on the role of assessment and monitoring frameworks in urban adaptation. By employing qualitative and quantitative methodologies, supported by VOSviewer for co-occurrence network analysis, this paper reveals novel clusters and thematic groupings within the ongoing debate. Results include the identification of new clusters and thematic grouping and the identification of potential future trends.
Digital Transformation in Entrepreneurship Education: The Use of a Digital Tool KABADA and Entrepreneurial Intention of Generation Z
Authors: Lesinskis Kristaps , Mavlutova Inese , Spilbergs Aivars , Hermanis Janis
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to investigate the impact of using the business planning digital tool KABADA in a study process on entrepreneurial intentions in Generation Z, based on the study conducted in selected Central and Eastern European countries and Southern European countries. The authors developed a literature review on digital transformation and digital tools in entrepreneurship education and their role in increasing entrepreneurial intentions in the context of sustainability. In the empirical part, the authors conducted a quasi-experiment, tested the digital entrepreneurship education tool KABADA among students with the analysis of sequentially obtained statistical data, using descriptive statistics, statistical tests of eight hypotheses, as well as the effect size test. The study reveals a mostly positive effect of the digital tool KABADA on the entrepreneurial intention of Generation Z, thus confirming the effectiveness of digitalization-based entrepreneurial education in promoting entrepreneurial intention. However, this effect is not statistically significant for some components forming intention, as proven by hypothesis testing. The study contributes to the role of the digital transformation of entrepreneurial education and the use of digital tools with built-in artificial intelligence algorithms in improving the effectiveness of education in terms of raising entrepreneurial intentions.
Using Energy Conservation-Based Demand-Side Management to Optimize an Off-Grid Integrated Renewable Energy System Using Different Battery Technologies
Authors: Kumar Polamarasetty P , Rahman Akhlaqur , Nuvvula Ramakrishna S. S. , Colak Ilhami , Muyeen S. M. , Shezan Sk. A. , Shafiullah G. M. , Ishraque Md. Fatin , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Alsaif Faisal , Elavarasan Rajvikram Madurai
Published: June 2023

Rural electrification is necessary for both the country’s development and the well-being of the villagers. The current study investigates the feasibility of providing electricity to off-grid villages in the Indian state of Odisha by utilizing renewable energy resources that are currently available in the study area. However, due to the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources, it is highly improbable to ensure a continuous electricity supply to the off-grid areas. To ensure a reliable electricity supply to the off-grid areas, three battery technologies have been incorporated to find the most suitable battery system for the study area. In addition, we evaluated various demand side management (DSM) techniques and assessed which would be the most suitable for our study area. To assess the efficiency of the off-grid system, we applied different metaheuristic algorithms, and the results showed great promise. Based on our findings, it is clear that energy-conservation-based DSM is the ideal option for the study area. From all the algorithms tested, the salp swarm algorithm demonstrated the best performance for the current study.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Water Usage in Typical Industrial Enterprises
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhou Yuyan , Chen Lihua , Wang Lichuan
Published: June 2023

Climate change and water scarcity are significant global issues both currently and in the future. Investigating the changes in industrial water usage under this backdrop holds crucial guidance for enabling adaptive changes within industries. It offers methods and case support for assessing the impact of climate on the water usage processes of industrial enterprises as well. This study employed a physical model to examine the impact of climate factors on the primary water consumption processes of a selected case of a coal-fired power plant. Additionally, by utilizing the ScenarioMIP experimental outcomes from CMIP6 models, the future water consumption processes were predicted under four different SSPs-RCPs scenarios. A relevant LSTM neural network was constructed based on the primary water consumption calculation to establish connections between the power generation process, meteorological process, water consumption process, and water intake process. Findings from the study reveal that the annual average primary water consumption showed a decreasing trend in different SSPs-RCPs scenarios. Specifically, there were reductions of 1600, 5300, 9000, and 11,400 t/year in each respective scenario from SSP1–2.6 to SSP5–8.5. Conversely, the water intake exhibited a gradual increase, with increments of 2000, 5600, 9200, and 10,000 t/year, respectively. Moreover, the impact of climate change on evaporation showed an annual decrease of less than 0.056%, while the increase in water intake was below 0.044%. Under the SSPs-RCPs scenarios, both water intake and consumption exhibited a gradually increasing trend with fluctuations ranging from 1–2.6 to 5–8.5. However, the annual trends remained relatively stable. It is crucial to acknowledge that climate change has amplified the uncertainty surrounding water intake and consumption. Industrial enterprises should proactively ensure the stability of their production processes in response to climate change.
Performances and Environmental Impacts of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles for Different Mixed-Traffic Scenarios
Authors: Gemma Andrea , Onorato Tina , Carrese Stefano
Published: June 2023

As the transition towards connected and autonomous vehicles gradually happens, different phases with CAVs and human-driven vehicles sharing the same network will occur. This paper’s purpose is to increase the knowledge of these mixed situations, studying the impacts of an increasing number of CAVs within the vehicle fleet on road capacity, travel time savings and energy consumption, providing new insights into the debate that is still open. The methodology focused on a microsimulation-based approach on an urban motorway in the city of Rome. Some of the outcomes from simulations, run with the software PTV VissimTM 21, were used to analyse variations in general performances of the transportation system, whereas the remaining results were fed into the emission model COPERT for assessing the impacts of CAV penetration on the energy consumption of the fleet. Results show how, in congested cases, appreciable improvements can be recorded in terms of road capacity, mean speeds, and environmental impacts, while in lower-congested situations, any enhancement in traffic fluidification counteracts the environmental performances of the whole system.
Response of Soil Microbial Community Diversity to Long-Term Cultivation of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)/Cherry Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in Rotation
Authors: Deng Xiao , Yin Hao , Tan Huadong , Li Yi , Wu Chunyuan , Su Jiancheng
Published: June 2023

The crop rotation periodicity has always been a concern of agricultural researchers. This study was the first investigation on the effects of long-term continuous cultivation with rice/cherry tomato rotation on soil microbial community diversity. The main objective was to analyze the optimal rotation years of rice/cherry tomato from a micro-ecology perspective so as to provide theoretical basis for effectively avoiding continuous cropping obstacles of cherry tomato. Soil samples were collected from the surface layers with rice/cherry tomato rotations for 1 year (1a), 3 years (3a), 5 years (5a), 7 years (7a) and 10 years (10a). The microbial community diversity was determined via high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that alpha diversity of soil microbial communities was the highest at 5a and then gradually decreased during 5a to 10a. Beta diversity results revealed that microbial community structure was significantly different among 1a, 3a to 7a and 10a, but there were no clear differences among 3a, 5a and 7a. The abundances of soil beneficial bacteria Gemmatimonadetes, Bacteroidetes, Chloroflexi, Nitrospirae and beneficial fungi Mortierella, Trichoderma, Penicillium were the highest at 5a or 7a. Those of soil pathogenic fungi Fusarium and Aspergillus were the lowest at 5a and 7a, respectively. However, the relative abundances of the above-mentioned beneficial microorganisms began to decline, while those of pathogenic fungi began to increase after 5a or 7a. Soil available phosphorus, available iron and available zinc were common important factors affecting the community structure of bacteria and fungi, as indicated by significant positive correlations between the environmental factors and microbial communities. In conclusion, the soil microbial diversity began to decline and the micro-ecological balance was broken after continuously planting 5a to 7a with rice/cherry tomato rotation, which would lead to new continuous cropping obstacles.
Socioeconomic Impacts of Food Waste Reduction in the European Union
Authors: Lekavičius Vidas , Bobinaitė Viktorija , Kliaugaitė Daina , Rimkūnaitė Kristina
Published: June 2023

Food waste is a global multidimensional problem, with economic, social, and environmental dimensions linked to sustainable development. This study analyses the socio-economic and pollution effects of reducing food waste in the European Union. The food waste reduction scenarios analysed cover all segments of the supply chain from primary production to household consumption. Using the economy-wide model SAMmodEU, the impact of the scenarios is analysed in the context of the whole economy. Most scenarios analysed demonstrate positive socioeconomic effects in terms of a slight increase in gross domestic product and increasing employment. The multicriteria analysis indicates that the best overall performance is achieved by reducing food waste in the foodservice. It is recommended to focus on behaviour in policy design, thereby reducing food waste both in food services and in households and ensuring positive socioeconomic impacts.
Precursors of Cyclic Loading and Unloading Sandstone Failure Based on “Acoustic-Thermal” Loading–Unloading Response Ratio
Authors: Xu Hao , Ma Liqiang , Cao Kewang , Khan Naseer Muhammad , Hussain Sajjad , Niu Dongdong , Alarifi Saad S. , Bacha Sher
Published: June 2023

Coal mining often causes periodic disruption in the rock mass around the stope. The study of the deformation and failure characteristics of cyclic loading and unloading sandstone is very critical for gaining a thorough understanding of the mechanisms of rock damage, degradation, and failure. This kind of investigation is very helpful in determining the precursors of rock failure and the instability of engineering structures. In this research study, the properties of acoustic emission and infrared radiation of cyclic loading and unloading sandstone are explored using a cyclic loading and unloading sandstone experiment. Based on acoustic emission and infrared radiation, the loading–unloading response ratio of rock is established. It is found that the response variables of sandstone during the loading stage based on acoustic emission (AE) counts and the loading–unloading response ratio based on average infrared radiation temperature (AIRT) both rise suddenly in the last cycle, which may be a precursor of “acoustic-thermal” approaching rock failure. On this basis, the quantitative analysis index of infrared radiation of differential infrared energy change rate (DIECR) is proposed, that is, the change of square of ΔAIRT in unit time, and based on AE counts and DIECR, the loading–unloading response ratio of “acoustic-thermal” is defined. It is found that the “acoustic-thermal” loading–unloading response ratio suddenly increases during the penultimate cycle of loading and unloading. This feature can be taken as the initial precursor of rock failure. Together with the “acoustic-thermal” imminent failure precursor of rock, it constitutes the “initial precursor-imminent failure precursor” combined with the internal fracture and surface infrared radiation temperature field during the cyclic loading and unloading process of rock, realizing the hierarchical monitoring and early warning of cyclic loading and unloading rock failure. The research results lay a theoretical and practical foundation for using infrared radiation to monitor engineering disasters caused by rock fracture and failure in mining engineering.
Double-Edged Sword Effect of Flexible Work Arrangements on Employee Innovation Performance: From the Demands–Resources–Individual Effects Perspective
Authors: Wang Liyuan , Xie Tianyi
Published: June 2023

This study explores the double-edged sword effect of FWAs on employee innovation performance based on the Demand–Resource–Individual Effect (DRIVE) model. A total of 411 valid questionnaires from knowledge-based employees were collected in three stages through a survey of technology-based companies in China. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 and AMOS 22 software, and multi-level linear model analysis was conducted to test the double mediating effect of psychological empowerment and role ambiguity and the moderating effect of role breadth self-efficacy. This study found that, in terms of the job demand path, flexible work arrangements (FWAs) increased employees’ role ambiguity, which in turn decreased their innovation performance; in terms of the job resource path, FWAs increased employees’ psychological empowerment, which in turn increased their innovation performance. From the perspective of individual differences, under the flexible work system, employees with high role breadth self-efficacy can enhance their psychological empowerment and reduce role ambiguity, thus promoting their innovation performance. This study is the first to analyze the “double-edged sword” effect of FWAs on employee innovation performance based on the DRIVE model, which effectively extends the moderating variable of role breadth self-efficacy in the model and helps to understand the impact of different types of FWAs on employee innovation performance. In addition, this study provides a reference for technology-based companies to strengthen their digital capabilities and regulation of FWAs, which is conducive to achieving sustainable business development.
Development and Characterization of Polymeric Composites Reinforced with Lignocellulosic Wastes for Packaging Applications
Authors: Sulaiman Muhammad , Rabbani Fahad Ali , Iqbal Tanveer , Riaz Fahid , Raashid Muhammad , Ullah Nehar , Yasin Saima , Fouad Yasser , Abbas Muhammad Mujtaba , Kalam M. A.
Published: June 2023

In this work, the effects of different fiber loadings on the mechanical properties of the composites at the sub-micron scale were studied through nanoindentation followed by physical characterization. The composites were prepared by incorporating different loadings of wheat straw, corn stalk, and rice husk in polypropylene copolymer using a melt processing method followed by thermal–hydraulic compression technique. Nanoindentation experiments in quasi-continuous stiffness mode were performed on the surfaces of produced composites to study the composites’ elastic modulus, hardness, and creep properties. The obtained results expressed the in-depth study of the micro- and macro-level structure and behavior of particle interactions. The findings demonstrated that observable shifts in composites’ hardness, elastic modulus, and creep rate had occurred. The WS-reinforced biocomposite sheet showed the highest elastic modulus of 1.09 and hardness of 0.11 GPa at 40 wt% loading in comparison to other loadings. An impact strength of 7.55 kJ/m2 was noted for the biocomposite at 40 wt% RH loading. In addition, optical microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, water absorption, thickness swelling, and Vicat softening point studies were conducted on biocomposite sheets to evaluate differences in physical, mechanical, and thermal properties. The outstanding mechanical performance of the newly developed composites makes them suitable for use as a biodegradable packaging material.
Exploring Quantum Simpson-Type Inequalities for Convex Functions: A Novel Investigation
Authors: Iftikhar Sabah , Awan Muhammad Uzair , Budak Hüseyin
Published: June 2023

This study seeks to derive novel quantum variations of Simpson’s inequality by primarily utilizing the convexity characteristics of functions. Additionally, the study examines the credibility of the obtained results through the presentation of relevant numerical examples and graphs.
Several Characterizations of Δh-Doped Special Polynomials Associated with Appell Sequences
Authors: Alyusof Rabab , Wani Shahid Ahmmad
Published: June 2023

The study presented in this paper follows the line of research created by the fact that by employing the monomiality principle, new outcomes are produced. This article deals with the inducement of Δh tangent-based Appell polynomials and derivation of certain of its characterizations such as explicit form, determinant form, monomiality principle, etc. These polynomials are designed to exhibit certain symmetries themselves or to capture and describe symmetrical patterns in mathematical structures. Further, certain members of Δh Appell polynomials such as Δh Bernoulli, Euler, and Genocchi polynomials are taken, and their corresponding results are obtained.
Passive Transfer of Animal-Derived Polyclonal Hyperimmune Antibodies Provides Protection of Mice from Lethal Lassa Virus Infection
Authors: Oestereich Lisa , Müller-Kräuter Helena , Pallasch Elisa , Strecker Thomas
Published: June 2023

Background: Lassa virus (LASV) can cause severe acute systemic infection in humans. No approved antiviral drugs or vaccines are currently available. Antibody-based therapeutics are considered a promising treatment strategy in the management of LASV disease. Methods: We used chimeric Ifnar−/− C57BL/6 (Ifnar−/− Bl6) mice, a lethal LASV mouse model, to evaluate the protective efficacy of polyclonal antibodies purified from sera of rabbits hyperimmunized with virus-like particles displaying native-like LASV glycoprotein GP spikes. Results: Polyclonal anti-LASV GP antibodies provided 100% protection against lethal LASV infection in a pre- and post-exposure treatment setting and prevented LASV disease. Treatment also significantly lowered viremia level and virus load in organs. When treatment was initiated at the onset of symptoms, the hyperimmune antibodies provided partial protection and increased the survival rate by 80%. Conclusions: Our findings support the consideration of animal-derived hyperimmune antibodies targeting GP as an effective treatment option for highly pathogenic LASV.
A Systematic Review on Cardiometabolic Risks and Perinatal Outcomes among Pregnant Women Living with HIV in the Era of Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Modjadji Perpetua , Mokgalaboni Kabelo , Nonterah Engelbert A. , Lebelo Sogolo Lucky , Mchiza Zandile June-Rose , Madiba Sphiwe , Kengne Andre Pascal
Published: June 2023

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens have been shown to cause metabolic changes in people living with HIV (PLWH), predisposing them to cardiometabolic disease (CVMD). However, such evidence is less established in pregnant women living with HIV (pWLWH) on ART. Pregnancy-induced cardiometabolic risks (CMR) can predispose to unfavourable pregnancy outcomes and further persist in the postpartum period, resolve, and recur in subsequent pregnancies, or emerge as newly diagnosed chronic diseases of ageing. Therefore, this systematic review aimed at synthesizing evidence on CMR and perinatal outcomes among pWLWH in the era of ART. We considered prospective and retrospective cohorts, case-control, cross-sectional, and interventional studies published in English. Specific keywords were used to conduct a thorough literature search on PubMed-Medline and Scopus following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guideline. Two investigators independently screened the search outputs and reviewed full texts of potentially eligible articles. Data extraction was conducted by one investigator and verified by the second investigator. Thirty-one relevant studies conducted on 20,904 pWLWH on ART across Africa, Asia, Europe, and America were included. Studies demonstrate inconclusive findings, especially on perinatal outcomes, but significant risks of gestational hypertension and dyslipidemia were reported in pWLWH on ART compared to the control group. Therefore, future studies should focus more on these perinatal outcomes, and their impact on postpartum maternal health and growth trajectories of uninfected infants born from pWLWH who are either on ART or ART-naïve in comparison to infants born of HIV-negative mothers over the life course, especially in HIV-burdened African countries.
Stable Isotope Signatures in Tehran’s Precipitation: Insights from Artificial Neural Networks, Stepwise Regression, Wavelet Coherence, and Ensemble Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Heydarizad Mojtaba , Gimeno Luis , Minaei Masoud , Shahsavan Gharehghouni Marjan
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the impact of precipitation on Middle Eastern countries like Iran using precise methods such as stable isotope techniques. Stable isotope data for precipitation in Tehran were obtained from the Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation (GNIP) station and sampled for two periods: 1961–1987 and 2000–2004. Precipitation samples were collected, stored, and shipped to a laboratory for stable isotope analyses using the GNIP procedure. Several models, including artificial neural networks (ANNs), stepwise regression, and ensemble machine learning approaches, were applied to simulate stable isotope signatures in precipitation. Among the studied machine learning models, XGboost showed the most accurate simulation with higher R2 (0.84 and 0.86) and lower RMSE (1.97 and 12.54), NSE (0.83 and 0.85), AIC (517.44 and 965.57), and BIC values (531.42 and 979.55) for 18O and 2H compared to other models, respectively. The uncertainty in the simulations of the XGboost model was assessed using the bootstrap technique, indicating that this model accurately predicted stable isotope values. Various wavelet coherence analyses were applied to study the associations between stable isotope signatures and their controlling parameters. The BWC analysis results show coherence relationships, mainly ranging from 16 to 32 months for both δ18O–temperature and δ2H–temperature pairs with the highest average wavelet coherence (AWC). Temperature is the dominant predictor influencing stable isotope signatures of precipitation, while precipitation has lower impacts. This study provides valuable insights into the relationship between stable isotopes and climatological parameters of precipitation in Tehran.
Les « Vases-Ruche », une acquisition exceptionnelle pour le musée de Sèvres
Authors: Mesqui Viviane
Published: June 2023

The “beehive vases” are rare models produced by the Sèvres Manufactory in the 18th century. A pair of them was successfully bought in a private sale by the Sèvres-Manufacture and Musée nationaux thanks to the Fonds du patrimoine, a generous contribution of the Society of the Friends of the Museum and Maison Chaumet, the Paris jewellers.
Assessing Integrated Pest Management Implementation and Knowledge Gaps in South Dakota
Authors: Byamukama Emmanuel , Szczepaniec Adrianna , Strunk Connie , Fanning Robert , Bachmann Amanda , Deneke Darrell , Johnson Paul
Published: June 2023

A survey of commercial pesticide applicator training participants was carried out during 2015 winter pesticide certification meetings to assess integrated pest management (IPM) knowledge gaps. Overall, the majority of the respondents reported that they have adequate access to IPM information and that they apply IPM principles in their pest management programs. Preventive fungicide use was identified as a regular practice by half the respondents and was dependent on the region of the state. Participants identified basic pest identification as an area in which more resources are needed. Online information and field days were the preferred options for accessing outreach and Extension.
The Value of 4-H Judging Teams—Missouri Dairy Judging Alumni Survey
Authors: Deaver Karla , Probert Ted
Published: June 2023

Former Missouri 4-H Dairy Judging Team members responded to a survey about life skills development and the value of the judging team experience. Results of the survey indicate that judging team experience was highly influential in the development of communication, public speaking, and presentation skills. Respondents also indicated that judging team experience was valuable in introducing them to opportunities in agriculture and the dairy industry, educational opportunities, and professional opportunities. Eighty-four percent of the respondents currently use their evaluation and decision-making skills both professionally and personally. All respondents indicated that judging activity benefits outweigh the costs associated with maintaining judging teams.
Assessing the Profitability of Guava Production in South Florida Under Risk and Uncertainty
Authors: Evans Edward , Garcia Stella
Published: June 2023

This article discusses an assessment of the profitability of operating a 5-acre Thai guava orchard in South Florida. The assessment used simulation techniques to incorporate yield and price risks. The article also demonstrates the use of a stoplight chart, an approach Extension agents might adopt to aid clients' decision making. The stoplight chart presents the results of the analysis, which indicate a 2% chance that the grower would experience a negative return/loss (red), a 21% chance that the return would be greater than $0 but less than $8,450 (yellow), and a 77% chance that the return would be greater than $8,450 (green).
Interdisciplinary Professional Development Needs of Cooperative Extension Field Educators
Authors: Sondgerath Travis
Published: June 2023

The study discussed in this article sought to identify cross-program professional development needs of county-based Extension professionals (field educators). The study instrument was completed by 105 county-based Extension professionals. Interdisciplinary topics, such as program evaluation and volunteer management, were identified as subjects of needed professional development for the Extension professionals whose sole program area was Economic and Community Development. Extension professionals in both the Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Health and Human Sciences program areas tended not to identify topics from each other's program areas as subjects of needed professional development.
Resources for Underwater Robotics Education
Authors: Wallace Michael , Freitas William
Published: June 2023

4-H clubs can build and program underwater robots from raw materials. An annotated resource list for engaging youth in building underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) is provided. This article is a companion piece to the Research in Brief article "Building Teen Futures with Underwater Robotics" in this issue of the Journal of Extension.
Training Law Enforcement Officials on Responding to Equine Calls
Authors: Anderson Kathleen , Stauffer Gary , Stauffer Monte , Anderson Doug , Biodrowski Kristie
Published: June 2023

The occurrence of equine abuse/neglect cases is an ongoing issue. However, officials responding to equine cases are rarely experienced in handling horses. Therefore, workshops teaching basic horse husbandry were offered to better equip and prepare officials to respond to equine cases. Trainings consisted of both classroom and hands-on sessions. Responses to a survey conducted 4 to 6 months postworkshop indicated that the training had been very beneficial during subsequent equine investigations (80%) and that officials were more prepared to assess horses (85%). Thus, Extension faculty presented basic, factual information that was relevant to the needs of officials responding to equine cases.
An Online Resource Site for Extension Master Gardener Coordinators
Authors: Langellotto Gail , Dorn Sheri
Published: June 2023

Developing an online resource site for Extension master gardener (EMG) coordinators is an ongoing project for Extension collaborators. Begun in 2014, the website includes peer-reviewed resources focused on best practices in volunteer management and program administration. The website is organized according to nine resource categories (e.g., program planning, engaging and teaching adults) and three resource types (i.e., readings, PowerPoint files, templates). In this article, we identify criteria used by peer reviewers and describe the processes for identifying potential resources, building site content, and making the website more accessible.
Evaluating the Georgia Master Naturalist Program
Authors: Hildreth Lauren , Mengak Michael
Published: June 2023

We evaluated the Georgia Master Naturalist Program using an online survey. Survey participation was voluntary, and the survey addressed areas such as satisfaction, volunteerism, and future training. The program received high scores from survey respondents. They appreciated training on native plants, environmental awareness, and ecological principles but were less interested in training on agriculture, recycling, and butterfly gardens. Most respondents (68%) did not volunteer relative to involvement in the program, and 32% did not want a volunteer requirement as part of the program. Obstacles to volunteering included lack of time and lack of nearby opportunities. A majority of respondents (54.9%) supported the idea of future advanced training opportunities.
Developing a Marketing Mind-Set: Training and Mentoring for County Extension Employees
Authors: Sneed Christopher , Elizer Amy , Hastings Shirley , Barry Michael
Published: June 2023

Marketing the county Extension program is a critical responsibility of the entire county staff. This article describes a unique peer-to-peer training and mentoring program developed to assist county Extension staff in improving marketing skills and successfully developing and implementing a county Extension marketing plan. Data demonstrating success of this program are presented. Additionally, best practices for states wishing to create a similar peer-to-peer program conclude the article.
Not Just for Laughs – Using Comics to Burst the Fake-News Bubble
Authors: Steuter Erin
Published: June 2023

This research study presents an analysis of a pedagogical strategy for teaching university students how to apply critical media literacy skills to develop their ability to detect fake news. The goal of the study was to explore the potential advantages of using comics as medium to engage students, clarify complex content, and accelerate cognition. The empirical part of the paper provides a comprehensive account of this pedagogical strategy, outlining the design and implementation of the workshop, incorporating insights from critical media literacy literature, current examples of fake news, and graphic narrative approaches. In particular, the project engaged the students through the presentation of information about fake news with comicstyle graphic narratives and assessed their learning through their interaction and completion of creative dialogue within these narratives. The students showed a high level of engagement and helped peers navigate examples of fake news. They also demonstrated insights into the structural and economic factors that encourage fake news, including within the commercial news media. This study brings new insights and information on several issues related to media literacy practice in the academic context and emphasizes the relationship between communication and pedagogical studies. Adding comics to the critical media literacy toolkit shows promise in expanding techniques in the battle against fake news.
Situating Biomedical and Professional Monopoly at the Intersections of Structural, Ideational and Agentic Power Comment on "Power Dynamics Among Health Professionals in Nigeria: A Case Study of the Global Fund Policy Process"
Authors: Kapilashrami Anuj
Published: June 2023

Lassa and colleagues’ study is a strong commentary on the biomedical hegemony and professional monopoly of medical doctors in the policy landscape of the Global Fund in Nigeria. Situating this critical dimension of professional power within wider scholarship of power and governance of global health initiatives (such as the Global Fund), in this comment, I put forth two core arguments. I call for a relational perspective of power in a dynamic policy space that the Fund characterises. I argue that a systems-view analysis of power requires a thorough examination of subsystems, how they interact, and the diverse forms of power—individual agentic, ideational, and structural—and the mechanisms through which power is wielded. The lens of governmentality allows linking individual (expertise and practices) with institutional regimes and social practices these enable; and in examining the interface of local/ sub-national, national, and global within which policy formulation and implementation occurs.
PECS 1 block as analgesic adjuncts in breast augmentation surgery
Authors: Beh Zhi Yuen , Lee Kim Siea
Published: June 2023

The analgesic benefits of using pectoral nerve (PECS) block as regional analgesia in breast cancer surgery have been widely published. However, the use of PECS block in aesthetic breast surgery remains underreported. Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures. Pain and discomfort are common after breast augmentation surgery. We report a case series using ultrasound-guided PECS 1 block as part of multimodal analgesia, which further enhanced the recovery experience in patients undergoing primary augmentation mammaplasty using silicone implants in a day-surgery setting.