Continuous Growth Research Articles

In vivo endocultivation of CAD/CAM hybrid scaffolds in the Omentum Majus in miniature pigs

Correction of bony mandibular defects is a challenge in oral and maxillofacial surgery due to aesthetic and functional requirements. This study investigated the potential of a novel hybrid scaffold for bone regeneration and degradation assessment of the ceramic within the omentum majus over 6 months and the extent to which rhBMP-2 as a growth factor, alone or combined with a hydrogel, affects regeneration. In this animal study, 10Göttingen minipigs each had one scaffold implanted in the greater omentum. Five animals had scaffolds loaded with a collagen hydrogel and rhBMP-2, and the other five animals (control group) had scaffolds loaded with rhBMP-2 only. Fluorochrome injections and computed tomography (CT) were performed regularly. After 6 months, the animals were euthanized, and samples were collected for microCT and histological evaluations. Fluorescent and light microscopic and a CT morphological density evaluation showed continuous bone growth until week 16 in both groups. Regarding the ratio of bone attachment to the Zr02 support struts, the rhBMP-2 loaded collagen hydrogel group showed with 63% a significantly higher attachment (p>0.001) than the rhBMP-2 control group (49%). In this study, bone growth was induced in all omentum majus specimens until post-operative week 16. Furthermore, hydrogel and rhBMP-2 together resulted in better bone-scaffold integration than rhBMP-2 alone. Further studies should investigate whether implantation of the scaffolds in the jaw after an appropriate period of bone regeneration leads to a stable situation and the desired results.

Evolution of continuing medical education in radiology: on-site vs remote

ObjectivesTo assess the evolution of continuing medical education/continuous professional development (CME/CPD) in European Radiology with a particular focus on on-site (live educational events, LEE) vs remote (electronic learning materials, ELM) participation and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsResults related to CME/CPD of surveys conducted by the Accreditation Council of Imaging (ACI) between 2017 and 2020 are summarized. Additional insights from the survey conducted in spring 2023, exploring online education trends since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, are presented. Finally, the results of the surveys are correlated with the total number of CME/CPD applications received annually from 2018 to 2022.ResultsPre-pandemic, 90% of European radiologists supported mandatory CME and unified CME/CPD-system. A trend among younger radiologists towards ELM was observed. Only 20% of employers fully endorsed CME/CPD. In 2020, LEE attendance dropped significantly (95.5–33%), with a simultaneous surge (33–58%) in time spent on ELM. Post-pandemic, the majority (52%) of LEE attendees participated in 1–5 events, whereas the majority (38%) of attendees of live-streamed events participated in 6–20 meetings. Content remains a priority of respondents in all formats: 79% for online, 75% for on-site, and 74% for on-demand. While the assessed quality of LEE remained at the same level (no change (36%) or good/very good (48%)), a considerably higher percentage of respondents noticed the quality of live-streamed events was good/very good (83%).ConclusionThe majority of European radiologists support mandatory CME and a unified CME/CPD system. Despite the post-pandemic resurgence in LEE, ELM and hybrid events are predicted to gain further prominence.Critical relevance statementThe CME/CPD system dynamically adapts to evolving professional, technical, and environmental circumstances, with human interaction gaining heightened significance post-COVID-19.Key PointsProfessionals expressed a desire to return to on-site participation, highlighting its desirability for social interaction.Electronic learning materials are poised for continued growth, particularly among younger generations.Professionals expressed a desire towards a unified CME/CPD system in Europe.Graphical

Research hotspots and global trends in transcranial magnetic stimulation for stroke neurorestoration: A 30-year bibliometric analysis

BackgroundStroke patients often experience various functional impairments. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a novel non-invasive brain stimulation technique, and has gained widespread attention over the past 30 years for its application in stroke. The present study used bibliometric and content analysis methods to explore the research hotspots and future trends of TMS in stroke, with an aim to provide benefits for subsequent research. MethodsPublications and reviews related to TMS in stroke from 1992 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Data visualization and analysis were performed using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Scimago Graphica. ResultsWe included 1666 papers in the analysis and noted an increasing trend in annual publication volume. Collaboration network analysis revealed close cooperation among scholars from these major countries and institutions. Emerging keywords included TMS, stroke, recovery, rehabilitation, rTMS, plasticity, cortex, excitability, upper limb, and tDCS. Keyword citation bursts appeared to be shifting toward clinical applications, including functional connectivity, systematic reviews, double-blind studies, connectivity, injury, and dysphagia. ConclusionOur study indicates substantial growth in TMS publications and citations in stroke rehabilitation since 2006, suggesting a maturing field that is advancing toward more sophisticated treatment protocols. The increasing relevance of TMS in neurological and rehabilitative applications highlights its potential for promoting post-stroke recovery. Emerging keywords such as brain functional connectivity, systematic reviews, and double-blind studies highlight a shift toward clinical applications. The future of TMS in stroke rehabilitation promises continued growth, interdisciplinary approaches, and improved patient outcomes.

Ensuring Business Continuity through Succession Planning: A Case Study of Zimbabwean Businesses

Introduction Succession planning is a critical aspect of business continuity, as it ensures the continued survival and growth of businesses. Zimbabwean businesses face unique challenges, including political and economic instability, which can impact their ability to ensure business continuity. This study aimed to investigate the role of succession planning in ensuring business continuity in Zimbabwean businesses.  Methodology The study used a case study approach, with a focus on Zimbabwean businesses. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with top management and HR professionals from selected Zimbabwean businesses. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis, with the aid of NVivo software.  Findings The study found that succession planning is a key aspect of business continuity in Zimbabwean businesses. The study identified several themes, including the importance of succession planning, the challenges of implementing succession planning, and the benefits of succession planning.  Results Analysis The study's results show a significant positive relationship between succession planning and business continuity. The results also show that succession planning is a significant predictor of business continuity. The study's findings support the importance of succession planning in ensuring the continued survival and growth of Zimbabwean businesses.  Conclusion The study concludes that succession planning is a critical aspect of business continuity in Zimbabwean businesses. The study's findings highlight the need for Zimbabwean businesses to prioritize succession planning as a key aspect of their business strategy. The study's results also underscore the importance of developing a comprehensive succession planning program that includes identifying and developing future leaders, creating a talent pipeline, establishing a timeline for transition, communicating the succession plan to stakeholders, and reviewing and updating the plan regularly.

Embracing circular economy concepts in hydropower generation: A review of sustainable practices and future prospect

The continuous growth in global energy demand and the escalating environmental issues make the search for sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions an urgent task in todays era. In the face of this challenge, hydropower, as a primary representative of renewable energy, shoulders the responsibility of meeting the ever-growing demand. This review will delve into the significance of introducing the concept of a circular economy in hydropower and the potential benefits it may bring

Supramolecular catalysts: A critical review

This critical review on Supramolecular Catalysts provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution and breakthroughs in this innovative field. The review highlights the contemporary breakthroughs in adaptive supramolecular catalysts as well as metal-organic counterparts, and their possible applications. The review also discusses the challenges that need to be addressed in the development of responsive supramolecular catalysts, such as optimizing the encapsulation process to achieve maximum stability and catalytic activity. The review combines concepts from responsive materials with phenomena underpinning supramolecular chemistry to equip both reactive and metal-organic varieties to address major issues present in current synthetic chemical processes productively. The review concludes that the future of supramolecular catalysis looks bright, and we can expect to see continued growth and innovation in this exciting field. Overall, this review provides a succinct outline of the evolution and progression of supramolecular catalysis, underscoring contemporary breakthroughs in adaptive supramolecular catalysts as well as metal-organic counterparts, and their possible applications. It also highlights the challenges that need to be addressed in the development of responsive supramolecular catalysts.

Educational Equity Challenges in China: An In-Depth Investigation

Analyzing the geographical distribution of educational institutions, changes in their numbers through time, and the consequences for equally accessible education, the article digs into the complex world of educational equality in China. A thorough effort is being made to provide education accessible across areas, as shown by the chart Regional Distribution of Educational Institutions (2021). Representing a dedication to supporting a variety of educational possibilities, Hebei leads with 14181 institutions, followed by Jiangsu with 7666 institutions. The dominance of big cities like Beijing and Tianjin, which together have 3082 institutions, emphasizes the diversity of educational options even more. The article identifies dynamic tendencies by analyzing the Changes in Number of Educational Institutions (2017-2021) data. A concerted effort has been made to improve educational infrastructure and accessibility at different academic levels, as seen by the rise of higher education institutions, high schools, and junior secondary schools. It is noteworthy that throughout five years, there were 125 more higher education institutions, 1030 more high schools, and 977 more junior secondary schools added. In contrast, the decrease in primary enrollment calls attention to the causes of this shift and its effects on education fundamentals. These developments demonstrate Chinas determined efforts to provide educational opportunities for people at all levels and locations. Continual growth in institutions, a sign of an endeavor to satisfy changing educational demands, has characterized the secondary and postsecondary education landscape. Additionally, the data raises concerns about the loss of elementary schools and the need to address prospective legislative changes or demographic trends. The article highlights Chinas comprehensive strategy for ensuring educational fairness and provides a glimpse of its development, difficulties, and educational objectives.

Design of Radial Flux PM Synchronous Motor for EV Applications

Abstract: In recent years, with the accelerated process of urbanization, the continuous growth of urban areas and population sizes has posed higher demands on urban earthquake safety. The theory of resilient cities offers a new approach to effectively address urban earthquake safety risks. However, there is still a lack of reasonable methods for assessing and constructing urban seismic resilience both domestically and internationally. Therefore, this paper elucidates the connotation, essential characteristics, components, and evaluation indicators of a seismic-resilient city, summarizing the components of urban seismic resilience as "one fundamental, two guarantees," which include the engineering system, institutional system, and social and economic system. This paper establishes a dual-parameter urban seismic resilience assessment method based on post-earthquake losses and recovery time, proposing a "set goals, assess, improve, reassess" approach for building resilient cities. The proposed method can provide theoretical guidance and practical basis for assessing and enhancing the seismic resilience of individual infrastructures, engineering systems, urban systems, and resilience to other disasters.

Enterprise Architecture in the Construction Management Software using the Business Model Canvas

Indonesia's construction industry has boomed over the past decade, acting as a powerful engine for the nation's economic growth. However, this success story comes with a growing list of challenges. Construction projects are becoming increasingly intricate, demanding not only efficiency and quality but also enhanced safety and a minimized environmental footprint. To tackle these complexities, the industry is undergoing a crucial transformation towards "smart construction." This approach leverages the power of information and communication technology (ICT) throughout the entire project lifecycle, from planning and design to execution and maintenance. By integrating ICT tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and cloud-based project management platforms, smart construction streamlines processes, minimizes errors, and optimizes resource allocation, ultimately leading to improved efficiency, enhanced worker safety, and a reduction in environmental impact. A key pillar of smart construction lies in the integration of enterprise architecture (EA) within construction management software. EA provides a structured framework for aligning IT systems with construction businesses' specific goals and objectives. This ensures that software development and management are adaptable to evolving industry needs and foster continuous innovation. This research delves into the application of EA within the construction management software industry, specifically focusing on the TOGAF Architecture Development Method (ADM). By exploring EA through this established framework, the research aims to shed light on how the construction industry in Indonesia can leverage technology to its fullest potential. This will ensure continued growth within the sector and contribute to a lasting positive impact on the nation's economy.

Polyploid Giant Cancer Cells: A Distinctive Feature in the Transformation of Epithelial Cells by High-Risk Oncogenic HCMV Strains.

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection is common in tumor tissues across different types of cancer. While HCMV has not been recognized as a cancer-causing virus, numerous studies hint at its potential role in cancer development where its presence in various cancers corresponds with the hallmarks of cancer. Herein, we discuss and demonstrate that high-risk HCMV-DB and BL strains have the potential to trigger transformation in epithelial cells, including human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs), ovarian epithelial cells (OECs), and prostate epithelial cells (PECs), through the generation of polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs). A discussion is provided on how HCMV infection creates a cellular environment that promotes oncogenesis, supporting the continuous growth of CMV-transformed cells. The aforementioned transformed cells, named CTH, CTO, and CTP cells, underwent giant cell cycling with PGCC generation parallel to dedifferentiation, displaying stem-like characteristics and an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. Furthermore, we propose that giant cell cycling through PGCCs, increased EZH2 expression, EMT, and the acquisition of malignant traits represent a deleterious response to the cellular stress induced by high-risk oncogenic HCMV strains, the latter being the origin of the transformation process in epithelial cells upon HCMV infection and leading to adenocarcinoma of poor prognosis.

Editors' Letter

Almost a year ago, in the summer of 2023, the managing editors of the Emerging Library and Information Perspectives (ELIP) journal called upon LIS graduate students and recent alumni to submit their papers for the sixth edition of the journal. This marked the beginning of a significant transformation for ELIP, transitioning it from a structured process managed by a hired editor and faculty advisory board to a fully student-run, volunteer-driven journal. The relaunch involved revamping the editorial process, expanding the author pool, and enhancing outreach efforts, all aimed at creating a more inclusive and independent platform. The new issue exemplifies these changes, featuring diverse contributions across multiple categories, from research articles on TikTok's algorithms and information science ontologies to insightful discussions on podcasts and Wikipedia for information literacy. The managing editors, reflecting on the journey, now pass the baton to future editors, eager to see the continued growth and impact of ELIP within the LIS community.

ЯДРОЛУК ФИЗИКАНЫ АЙЫЛ ЧАРБАСЫНДА КОЛДОНУУДАГЫ ƟЗГƟЧƟЛYКТƟР

This article examines the features of the use of nuclear physics in agriculture as an important tool for improving production processes, increasing yields and quality of agricultural products, as well as for ensuring sustainable development of the agricultural sector. The application of nuclear physics in agriculture requires international cooperation and the exchange of experience between States, which contributes to the accelerated implementation of innovative solutions and technologies. The use of nuclear physics in agriculture in general has great potential to improve the living conditions of rural residents, ensure food security and sustainable development of the agricultural sector. In the context of continuous population growth, climate change and limited natural resources, agricultural producers are forced to seek innovative methods to increase the yield and quality of agricultural products.

Meaning, concept and application of bioinformatics

Bioinformatics, originating from the term coined in 1979 by Paulien Hogeweg and Ben Hesper, is a burgeoning interdisciplinary field at the nexus of biology, computer science, and information technology. It encompasses the collection, classification, storage, and analysis of vast biological datasets using computational methods, aiming to unravel the complexities of biological systems. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of bioinformatics, emphasizing its definition, scope, branches, aims, research areas, databases, and applications, particularly highlighting its role in drug discovery through structural bioinformatics. Bioinformatics integrates diverse branches such as computational biology, genomics, proteomics, structural biology, systems biology, pharmacogenomics, and bioprogramming. Each branch applies mathematical modeling, molecular interactions analysis, or genomic data interpretation to advance understanding in biology and medicine. Key aims include applying advanced computational technologies to biological problems, presenting complex data clearly, and providing robust statistical tools for genomic analysis. The field also fosters collaborations across academic, commercial, and government sectors to leverage resources and expertise. Research areas span computational evolutionary analysis, genome annotation, gene expression analysis, cancer mutation studies, and comparative genomics, illuminating disease mechanisms and evolutionary relationships. Bioinformatics databases play a crucial role by storing and organizing biological data. Primary repositories like GenBank and the Protein Data Bank (PDB), secondary databases such as SWISS-Prot, and specialized databases support research and clinical applications by providing access to genomic, proteomic, and structural information. In drug discovery, structural bioinformatics techniques like homology modeling, molecular docking, and simulations predict protein structures, analyze interactions, and aid in designing therapies. These computational methods accelerate drug development, optimize drug-target interactions, and reduce costs associated with bringing new drugs to market. Overall, bioinformatics drives innovation in biological sciences and healthcare by leveraging computational methods to interpret biological data. As technology advances, bioinformatics will continue to play a pivotal role in addressing global health challenges, advancing personalized medicine, and facilitating groundbreaking discoveries in biology and medicine. The evolving field of bioinformatics promises continued growth and impact, shaping the future of biological research and its applications in improving human health and understanding the natural world.

The Role of Communities of Practice in Developing Yemeni EFL Teachers' Continuous Professional Development

Teaching is a profession that necessitates continual growth and adaptation. Teachers are tasked with updating their teaching practices to align with evolving methodologies and technological advancements in education. One effective strategy for achieving this is through Communities of Practice (CoP), where educators can collaborate with peers in their subject area, sharing insights and learning from each other’s experiences. This study investigates the perceptions of Yemeni EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers participating in CoPs, focusing on how these communities contribute to their Continuous Professional Development (CPD). The research aims to identify which aspects of CPD are most valued among Yemeni EFL teachers, while also exploring the influence of variables such as gender and years of teaching experience on CPD outcomes. Employing a quantitative approach, data was collected through a validated, close-ended questionnaire comprising 16 items. The questionnaire, validated for reliability with 15 CoP members (Cronbach’s α = 0.872), was administered to 54 CoP participants who engaged in a program facilitated by the British Council in Yemen between late 2022 and early 2023. Statistical analysis using SPSS (Version 23) was conducted to interpret the findings. The study reveals that Yemeni EFL CoP members reported significant CPD enhancements, with an average score of M = 3.90 attributed to their participation in CoP activities. Specifically, engagement in CoPs received the highest rating among CPD components (M = 4.04), closely followed by Foundation and Specialisation (M = 4.01), with Integration scoring M = 3.65. Furthermore, the study found no significant differences in CPD outcomes based on gender or years of teaching experience among CoP members. The findings underscore the importance of fostering CoPs among EFL educators to facilitate knowledge sharing and professional development. Additionally, the study recommends that EFL university instructors promote CoP formation among their students to prepare them for successful careers in education. By leveraging CoPs, Yemeni EFL teachers can continuously enhance their teaching practices, staying abreast of advancements in pedagogy and technology, thereby ensuring quality education for their students.

Bioactives of the Freshwater Aquatic Plants, Nelumbo nucifera and Lemna minor, for Functional Foods, Cosmetics and Pharmaceutical Applications, with Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Antithrombotic Health Promoting Properties

Despite significant progress, certain inflammation related to chronic disorders, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and cancer, still present high mortality rates. Thus, further study is needed to address such pathologies more appropriately. Apart from classic therapeutics, natural bioactives with less toxic side effects have gained attention, including those with potential pharmaceutical properties derived from several plants. Within this article, the potential utilization of freshwater aquatic plants as sources of bioactives with antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties is outlined. Emphasis is given to a well-established aquatic plant with known but not fully clarified and overviewed bio-functional and pharmaceutical properties, the Chinese lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), as well as to a so far neglected aquatic plant, Lemna minor, which has not yet been thoroughly reviewed for such applications. The latent usually grows naturally in large numbers at the surface of stored water basins of retrieved water from the last stages of wastewater treatment facilities. The continuous growth of this aquatic plant in such conditions further suggests that it can be a sustainable source of natural bioactives, if appropriately valorized, with an economic benefit and in a friendly environmental approach. The abundant content of both freshwater aquatic plants in bioactive components with potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic activities is thoroughly outlined, while their applications as functional ingredients in several functional products (functional foods, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals) are also discussed. The outlined outcomes urge further study of both aquatic plants and especially of Lemna spp. to fully elucidate their potential as alternative sustainable sources of bioactive ingredients for functional foods, supplements, nutraceuticals, nutricosmetics, cosmeceuticals, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products with health-promoting properties against inflammation and thrombosis related manifestations and their associated chronic disorders.

Emission Control in Expressway Systems: Vehicle Emission Inventory and Policy Scenario Analysis

Expressway systems play a vital role in facilitating intercity travels for both passengers and freights, which are also a significant source of vehicle emissions within the transportation sector. This study investigates vehicle emissions from expressway systems using the COPERT model to develop multi-year emission inventories for different pollutants, covering the past and future trends from 2005 to 2030. Thereinto, an integrated SARIMA-SVR method is designed to portray the temporal variation of vehicle population, and the possible future trends of expressway vehicle emissions are predicted through policy scenario analysis. The Jiang–Zhe–Hu Region of China is taken as the case study to analyze emission control in expressway systems. The results indicate that (1) carbon monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present a general upward trend primarily originating from passenger vehicles, while nitrogen oxides (NOx) and inhalable particles (PM) display a slowing upward trend with fluctuations mainly sourcing from freight vehicles; (2) vehicle population constraint is an effective emission control policy, but upgrading the medium- and long-haul transportation structure is necessary to meet the continuous growth of intercity trips. Expressway vehicle emission reduction effectiveness can be further enhanced by curtailing the update frequency of emission standards, along with the scrapping of high-emission vehicles.

Analyzing the influence of government policy on building carbon emission reduction based on differential game

With the continuous growth of low-carbon economy and people’s increasing preference for low-carbon products, the building carbon emission reduction (CER) has been highly concerned by the government. Therefore, in this study, we establish a game model through differential game to analyze the impact of government policies on building’s CER. We get: (1) Compared with the carbon tax policy, the government policy combining carbon tax and cost subsidy is more conducive to reducing carbon emissions; (2) For the three government policies, when the cost subsidy rate is lower than a fixed value, the government policy combining carbon tax and cost subsidy is the optimal strategy for building’s CER. When the cost subsidy rate is greater than a fixed value, the cost subsidy policy is the best strategy for building’s CER.

The Effects of Rearing Environment on Organization of the Olfactory System and Brain of Juvenile Sockeye Salmon, Oncorhynchus nerka.

Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) hatch and feed in freshwater habitats, migrate to sea to mature, and return to spawn at natal sites. The final, riverine stages of the return migrations are mediated by chemical properties of the natal stream that they learned as juveniles. Like some other fish, salmon growth is asymptotic; they grow continuously throughout life toward a maximum size. The continued growth of the nervous system may be plastic in response to environmental variables. Due to the ecological, cultural, and economic importance of Pacific salmon, individuals are often reared in hatcheries and released into the wild as juveniles to supplement natural populations. However, hatchery-reared individuals display lower survivorship and may also stray (i.e., spawn in a non-natal stream) at higher rates than their wild counterparts. Hatchery environments may lack stimuli needed to promote normal development of the nervous system, thus leading to behavioral deficits and a higher incidence of straying. This study compared the peripheral olfactory system and brain organization of hatchery-reared and wild-origin sockeye salmon fry (Oncorhynchus nerka). Surface area of the olfactory rosette, diameter of the olfactory nerve, total brain size, and size of major brain regions were measured from histological sections and compared between wild and hatchery-origin individuals. Hatchery-origin fish had significantly larger optic tecta, and marginally insignificant, yet noteworthy trends, existed in the valvula cerebelli (hatchery>wild) and olfactory bulbs (hatchery<wild). We also found a putative difference in olfactory nerve diameter (dmin) (hatchery>wild), but the validity of this finding needs further analyses with higher resolution methods. Overall, these results provide insight into the potential effects of hatchery rearing on nervous system development in salmonids, and may explain behavioral deficits displayed by hatchery-origin individuals post-release.

Recovery of antimony from acidic and alkaline leaching solution of low-grade antimony ore by electrowinning process

With regards to the global continuous growth in consumption of base metals such as antimony (Sb), mining companies are currently looking to improve the productivity and extraction of Sb from low grade ore in order to economically process it. With this aim, in this study, an efficient protocol was developed to recover metallic Sb from the low grade Fe3Si2O5(OH)4. Sb3O6(OH). Sb2O3 ore of the Sefid-Abe mine in Zahedan province, Iran, utilizing selective acidic or alkaline leaching followed by Sb electrowinning. A process was developed to recover antimony from an Sb2O3 ore source, using selective acidic or alkaline leaching followed by antimony electrowinning. Sb could be leached with an efficiency of 85 % using 5 M NaOH and 87 % using 5 M hydrochloric acid/5 M sulfuric acid as the digestion solution at 80 °C for 8 h. The electrowinning process plays a significant role in recovery of highly pure Sb metal. Relying on this approach, a high deposition rate and current efficiency have been generated at a deposition potential 2 V at 30 °C (80 °C for alkaline medium). This was achieved by using anode electrode made of graphite and cathode electrode made of steel (two steel electrodes were used for alkaline electrowinning). Additionally, for acidic electrowinning, exploitation of Sb from the electrolyte solution was achieved by applying a current of 0.1 A, resulting in the highest yield equal to 89 %. On the other hand, for alkaline electrowinning, the highest efficiency corresponds to the current intensity of 0.5 A, which resulted in 97 % Sb extraction from the electrolyte solution. The XRD and ICP analysis performed for samples obtained from the electrolysis confirmed that the resulting antimony ingot has an exceptionally high purity.

Advising Leaders’ Perceptions of Advisor Workplace Learning

This study explores the perceptions of academic advising leaders regarding workplace learning for primary-role academic advisors in the United States. This research highlights the importance of self-directed learning, scholarly engagement, and graduate programs in the professional development of academic advisors. Through semi-structured interviews with 17 leaders of NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising, two themes emerged: self-directed learning and engagement, and scholarly engagement and understanding the field. The findings reveal that academic advisors, as proactive learners, continuously enhance their competencies through formal and informal learning activities, actively engaging with academic literature and professional networks. The study underscores the significance of preparing advisors to contribute meaningfully to their profession. By addressing the challenges and opportunities in workplace learning, this research contributes to the evolution and professionalization of academic advising, aligning with principles of Human Resource Development (HRD). The insights gained inform the design of effective professional development programs that enhance advisor skills and knowledge, ultimately leading to improved student outcomes and the advancement of the advising profession. This study bridges a critical gap in understanding the role of workplace learning in the continuous professional growth of academic advisors.