bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship Between Passion and Athlete Identity in Sport: The Mediating and Moderating Role of Dedication
Authors: Mergan Barış , Uğraş Sinan , Çelik Talip , Hidayat Yusuf , Özman Cemal , Üstün Ümit Doğan
Published: July 2023

Background:In addition to the fact that the concept of passion in sports plays a significant role in the formation of the identity concept of athletes, the dedication of athletes to the sports branches they are interested in also has a significant impact on their passion for the sport they are interested in as well as their identity as an athlete. In this direction, the research aims to investigate the role of dedication as a mediator and regulator in the relationship between athlete identity and passion in sport.Methods:The research was designed using the quantitative research technique of relational surveying. As data collection instruments for the research, the athlete identity scale, the passion in sport scale, and the sports commitment scale were utilized. 237 amateur and professional athletes, of which 142 were male and 95 were female (Mage=22.7), participated voluntarily in the study by random sampling. The data were analyzed with the PROCESS and Jamovi programs in order to examine the direct and indirect effects.Results:Significant effects of sports passion on commitment and athlete identity were found. Since both dedication and athlete identity had a significant effect on passion for sports, it was determined that passion for sports continues to influence athlete identity through the medium of dedication. The regulatory significance of medium, high, and low values of devotion was determined.Ethics approval number:226394, date of registration: 03/11/2022Conclusion:On the basis of the results of the statistical analyses, it was determined that the concept of dedication has a mediating and regulating effect on the relationship between sports passion and athlete identity.
Impact of ultrasound emulsification on the physicochemical properties of emulsions stabilised by quinoa protein isolates at different pHs
Authors: Yang Zhi , Cheng Lirong
Published: July 2023

Ultrasonication (20 kHz, 19.9 W/10 mL sample) was used to form O/W emulsions stabilised by quinoa protein isolate (QPI) particles at 3 wt%. Effects of pH (3, 5, 7, 9) and oil contents (20%, 40%, and 60%) on rheological properties and microstructural characteristics of emulsions were investigated. All emulsions show viscoelastic behaviours and form a network structure comprising aggregated oil droplets and QPI particles. Emulsions stabilised by QPI at pH 5 showed largest droplet sizes and lowest gel strength due to extensive aggregation of proteins around the isoelectric point (pI ~ 4.5). The gel strength (G´(1 Hz)) were enhanced when the oil content increased and reached ~ 1100–1350 Pa at 60% oil content at different pH. This could be attributed to a tighter packing of oil droplets at 60% oil. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that interdroplets bridging and voids filling of QPI particles between oil droplets are critical in formation of aggregated emulsions network. Emulsions stabilised by QPI at pH 7 and 9 possessed thinner interfacial layers compared to those at pH 3 and 5. Finally, this study shows a potential of using ultrasonication to prepare gel-like emulsions stabilised by QPI, broadening applications of quinoa proteins in making dairy substitutes with semi-solid textural characteristics.
Parental stress and depression in the NICU: an analysis of psychosocial evaluations, infant factors, and stress-related salivary biomarkers
Authors: Rubin Lewis , Wolfe Jessica , Pels Taylor , Ressel Claire , Ruben Lewis
Published: July 2023

Parents of NICU infants frequently experience psychosocial stress and depression.
This prospective observational study aimed to determine (a) parental/infant risk factors for parental depression/stress and (b) associations with salivary stress biomarkers.
Parents of NICU infants (predicted hospital stay >2 weeks) were eligible. Parental salivary samples and the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) and Perceived Stress Scale were obtained in week one, at six weeks, and near discharge.
Results were obtained for 66 parents (36 mothers, 30 fathers) of 39 singleton infants. On initial EPDS, 21% of parents (22% of mothers, 33% of fathers) scored sufficiently high (>12) to warrant referral for support/counseling services. Elevated EPDS was associated with parental AM cortisol and infant illness severity.
Self-reported stress differed between mothers and fathers. Salivary stress biomarkers, coupled with validated screening questionnaires, are useful in detecting and intervening with parents at risk for stress and depression during their infants’ NICU admission.
HBK-15, a multimodal compound, induces procognitive effects through modulating hippocampal LTP and enhancing theta-gamma coupling in mice
Authors: Pytka Karolina , Sałaciak Kinga , Lustyk Klaudia , Szafarz Małgorzata , Inteiro-Oliveira Sara , Diogenes MJ , Xapelli Sara , Schnur Paulina , Morton Lucy , Moran Erin , Ferreira Jacques , Sakata Shuzo
Published: July 2023

Neuropsychiatric disorders present with an array of emotional and behavioral symptoms, as well as cognitive deficits. Likely rooted in a complex pathophysiology involving glutamatergic neurotransmission imbalance, cognitive deficits frequently elude treatment by current pharmacotherapies. This highlights the pressing need for innovative drugs specifically targeting and ameliorating cognitive deficits in neuropsychiatric disorders. Here we show that HBK-15, a multimodal compound, exhibits robust antiamnesic properties across several MK-801-induced mouse models of memory deficits, likely through counteracting LTP decline and enhancing theta-gamma coupling in the hippocampus. HBK-15 has shown efficacy in mitigating MK-801-induced cognitive deficits across recognition, emotional, and spatial memory domains without impacting motor skill learning. Its protective effects spanned the encoding, consolidation, and retrieval phases of memory processing. Furthermore, the test compound counteracted the decrease in the hippocampal LTP magnitude caused by MK-801, probably via influencing the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (Cav1.2). Interestingly, HBK-15 and MK-801 exhibited opposing effects on the coupling between theta and gamma oscillations in the hippocampus. The promotion of theta-gamma coupling by HBK-15 suggests that the compound holds promise for enhancing learning and memory processes. Overall, our research underscores the potential of HBK-15 and compounds of a similar receptor profile in developing effective therapeutic strategies for cognitive deficits in neuropsychiatric conditions such as depression or schizophrenia.
Packet Alignment for Random Access in 5G Massive Machine Type Communication with Heterogeneous Packet Lengths
Authors: Woo Tai-Kuo , Fu Chen-Hua
Published: July 2023

Random access plays a critical role in mMTC networks that consist of a myriad number of heterogeneous IoT devices to meet the demand of applications in a large geographical area. In this paper, we propose using packet alignment for framed slotted Aloha, where packets are aligned to the chunks of time slots according to the lengths of the packets generated by the devices. The packet length dependent alignment ensures that the collision windows are relatively small, where the devices with varying packet lengths view the frame partitioned into chunks of time slots differently. In this paper, packet alignment is used in combination with the packet squeezing to enhance the throughput in framed slotted Aloha. Furthermore, the age of information can be easily included in the proposed approach to emphasize the importance of data freshness. In the performance evaluation, analytical model of the proposed packet alignment alongside with packet squeezing demonstrates that the throughput of framed slotted Aloha in the context of massive machine type communications in 5G can reach 0.9.
Ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3 exert their anti-cancer effects on non-small cell lung cancer by regulating cell autophagy and choline-phosphatidylcholine metabolism
Authors: Chen Qiu-Fang , Qiu Yue , Wang Lin , Liu Bi-Li , Zhao Min
Published: July 2023

Background: Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer) herb itself and its derived preparations (e.g. Shenmai injection) are often prescribed for cancer patients as Traditional Chinese Medicines clinically in China. Ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3 are two of main active components of ginseng. They have significant cytotoxic effect against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but the mechanisms are not very clear, especially lack of research on the combination of cell autophagy and metabolism. This study explores the mechanism of ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3 against NSCLC from these two aspects.
Methods: In this study, we investigated the regulatory effects of ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3 on cellular autophagy and metabolism in non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. Their regulations of cellular autophagy were detected by immunofluorescence, MDC staining, and transmission electron microscopy, while their regulations of cellular metabolism were detected by cellular metabolomics.
Results: Our results showed that ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3 can significantly induce cell autophagy, and can lead to autophagic cell death through endoplasmic reticulum stress-autophagy axis, similar to ginseng total ginsenosides extract (TGS). They also significantly regulate the cell metabolome at the same time. The regulatory effect of ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3 on the metabolism of choline-phosphatidylcholinemay be the cellular metabolic mechanism of their cytotoxicity.
Conclusion: Our findings suggested that ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3 could induce autophagic cell death and regulate choline-phosphatidylcholine metabolism in NSCLC cells. This study has a new understanding of the antitumor mechanism of ginsenosides Rh2 and Rg3, and suggests a new direction of studying the pharmacological mechanism of natural active components.
Critical Analysis of Mobility Models on Power Consumption of MANET’S AODV Protocol
Authors: VARSHNEY PANKAJ KUMAR , WADHWANI GANESH KUMAR , KUMAR SHRAWAN , KUMAR GAURAV , SAIFULLA M A
Published: July 2023

Mobile Adhoc Networks (MANETs) permit mobile nodes to communicate devoid of any sustain of predetermined and federal network as it does not follow any preset network communications and all nodes are gratis to travel from one position to a further. Power consumption or energy constraints play an important role in the flow of information between nodes. In the dynamic topology of MANETs, energy or battery is a huge difficulty to keep the mobile node running for a long time. Any node can move from one position to another in a consistent manner, making it difficult to predict the movement of any node in a particular order. Due to this dynamic change in topology the route establishment and its maintenance becomes complicated. Hence energy utilization of the node is one of the parameters that may change the performance of MANETs. In this paper, simulation result based on AODV routing protocol with 50 random mobile nodes under file and random waypoint mobility models concerning generic, mica-motes and micaZ energy models have been analyzed. Simulation outcomes imply that the file mobility model exhibits superior preference over the random waypoint mobility models in generic, mica-motes and micaZ energy models
Bayesian belief network modelling of the challenges associated with hybrid solar-diesel electricity from the end users’ perspective in Bugala Island in Uganda
Authors: Kayima Patrick , Semakula Henry Musoke , Wasswa Hannington , Mugagga Frank , Mukwaya Paul Isolo
Published: July 2023

Background
A hybrid solar-diesel energy system (HSDES) was installed on Bugala Island located on Lake Victioria in Uganda to increase access to clean, affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, which is essential for protecting the environment while improving living conditions, human health, and local economic development. However, the challenges associated with HSDES generated electricity from the end-users’ perspective are still unknown. Since these challenges are complex, stochastic, nonlinear, and multidimensional, this study aimed at utilizing a Bayesian belief network (BBN) modelling approach to identify, and rank the challenges experienced by energy consumers on the Island in an intergrated format.
Methods
A cross-sectional research design was employed where a total of 237 randomly selected respondents were involved in this study. Quantitative data were gathered using semi-structured questionnaires. The BBN model was developed basing on well established guidelines and modelling protocols. Using the K-fold partitioning approach (K = 2), the casefile (n = 237) was randomly partitioned into a training portion (70%, n = 165) used to populate the model, and test dataset (30%, n = 72), with which accuracy was assessed. Model accuracy was evaluated using metrics of sensitivity, and predication performance.
Results
The developed model was 81.7% accurate in predicting the challenges correctly. The model's spherical payoff was 0.87 with the logarithmic and quadratic losses of 0.33 and 0.23, respectively indicating a strong predictive power and the model’s classification power. The probability of households to experience significant challenges associated with HSDES generated electricity was 30.6%. The rate of damage of electric appliances increased by 15.6 percentage points. Cases of faulty electric meters increased by 25.8 percentage points. The unit cost of electricity, and the cost of power connection also increased by 1.9 and5.5 percentage points respectively. Cases of electrocution increased by 2.4 percentage points while load shedding increased by 4.7 percentage points.
Conclusion
This study provides the key top ranked challenges that should be given priority in an effort to expand hybrid energy on Bugala Island. We conclude that BBN modelling approach is a promising tool in the field of hybrid renewable energy systems on Islands with potential applications due to its versatility.
Estimating the value of off-grid electricity benefits for rural households: Evidence from rural Sumba, Indonesia
Authors: Wibisono Hafidz , Lovett Jon C. , Wen Cheng , Suryani Siti
Published: July 2023

Background Off-grid renewable electricity generation and distribution has become a cost effective way to supply electricity in rural areas remote from the grid system. However, in addition to the risk of not being able to pay for full cost tariffs, beneficiaries may not have the skills or time for the institutional and technical requirements to operate and maintain the technology. This might lead to sub-optimal functioning of off-grid renewable power plants and potentially to damage and abandonment. This raises the question of whether off-grid electricity benefits outweigh the effort and costs experienced by rural communities.Results We conducted a cost-benefit analysis of off-grid electricity in rural Sumba Island, Indonesia, which has been a focal area for implementation of off-grid electricity systems under the Indonesian government 'Iconic Island' programme. The research found a positive benefit-cost ratio when both market and non-market values were estimated suggesting that electricity is advantageous for rural households even without supporting interventions.Conclusions In conclusion we highlight the significance of non-market benefits of electricity. We argue that estimating the value of perceived benefits of electricity is pivotal for making decisions about intervention and formulating investment strategies for establishment of off-grid electricity systems.
Prominent Eustachian valve complicated by thrombus
Authors: kalkoul hamza
Published: July 2023

The Eustachian valve is an embryological remnant of the valve of the inferior vena cava. It may be prominent in some individuals, but the echocardiographic appearance of a divided right atrium (RA) as a result of a large Eustachian valve is rare. Sometimes it presents a problem of differential diagnosis with other embryonic remnants of the right atrium, such as the Chiari network. It may be complicated by thrombosis or infective endocarditis. Cardiac imaging plays an important role in diagnosis. The aim of this review is to discuss a rare form of Eustachian valve complicated by thrombosis.
Bilateral adrenal infarction and insufficiency associated with antiphospholipid syndrome and surgery: A case report
Authors: Iijima Yoshihito , Ishikawa Masahito , Motono Nozomu , Uramoto Hidetaka
Published: July 2023

Background
Antiphospholipid syndrome causes systemic arterial and venous thromboses owing to the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. Adrenal insufficiency is a rare complication of antiphospholipid syndrome. If left untreated, adrenal insufficiency may result in fatal outcomes.
Case presentation:
A 64-year-old man underwent surgery for a left traumatic hemothorax. He concurrently had antiphospholipid syndrome and was receiving warfarin. Postoperatively, he complained of severe lumbar back pain, despite resuming anticoagulation therapy. He developed paralytic ileus and shock. Abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed adrenal swelling and increased surrounding retroperitoneal adipose tissue density. Diffusion-weighted abdominal magnetic resonance imaging revealed high-intensity areas in the bilateral adrenal glands. The cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone levels were 3.30 µg/dL and 185.1 pg/dL, respectively. The patient was diagnosed with bilateral adrenal infarction and acute adrenal insufficiency. Hydrocortisone was immediately administered. Adrenal insufficiency improved gradually. The patient was discharged after initiating steroid replacement therapy.
Conclusions
The timing of postoperative anticoagulant therapy initiation is controversial. AI due to adrenal infarction should be monitored while anticoagulant therapy is discontinued in patients with APS.
Cocktail therapy of combined SGLT2 inhibitor, entresto and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells effectively prevents abdominal aortic aneurysmal associated complication syndrome in rodent
Authors: Sheu Jiunn-Jye , Yeh Jui-Ning , Ko Sheung-Fat , Chen Yi-Ling , Sung Pei‐Hsun , Yip Hon‐Kan
Published: July 2023

Background
This study tested that triple combination therapy [Dapagliflozin + Entresto + adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs)] offered additional benefits on preventing abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) against AAA complication syndrome (defined as AAA dilatation, muscle layer destruction and inflammation) in rodent.
Methods and Results
Adult-male SD rats (n = 54) were equally categorized into group 1 (sham control), group 2 (AAA only), group 3 [AAA + dapagliflozin (20 mg/kg/day orally from days 7 to 28 after AAA induction)], group 4 [AAA + entresto (100 mg/kg/day orally from days 7 to 28 after AAA induction)], group 5 [AAA + ADMSCs (1.0 x 106 cells) by intravenous administration since day 7 after AAA induction for 3 consecutive dosages at 3-day interval)] and group 6 (AAA + combined dapagliflozin-Entresto-ADMSCs). The result showed that the AAA diameter at day-28 was smallest in group 1, biggest in group 2, significantly increased in group 4 than in groups 3/5/6 and significantly increased in groups 4/5 than in group 6, but it showed no difference between groups 4/5 (all p < 0.0001). The light microscopic findings demonstrated that the AAA intimal thickness (i.e., indicator of intimal hyperplasia)/fibrotic area/numbers of immune-inflammatory (CD3+/CD4+/MMP2+/MMP9+) cells displayed an identical pattern, whereas the integrity of laminar structure of AAA medial-muscle layer/number of small vessels exhibited an opposite pattern of AAA diameter among the groups (all p < 0.0001). The protein expressions of inflammation (TNF-α/IL-1β/IL-6/MMP-2/MMP-9)/fibrosis (TGF-β/Smad3)/apoptosis (cleaved-Caspase3/cleaved-PARP) displayed an identical pattern, whereas the protein expressions of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP1/TIMP2) displayed an opposite pattern of AAA diameter among the groups (all p < 0.0001).
Conclusion
The results of the present study support that triple therapy with DAPA + entresto + ADMSCs could be innovative therapeutic modality for AAA setting.
SIRT4 Overcomes 5-Fluorouracil Associated Chemoresistance by Inhibiting Autophagy through Inhibition of ammonia production
Authors: Xu Bo , Cai Xiaojing , Xiao Hua , Huang Guoyu
Published: July 2023

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a first-line chemotherapy agent for colorectal cancer (CRC), but the emergence of chemoresistance has affected its use. Our preliminary results found that SIRT4 levels were reduced in CRC and correlated with poor prognosis. Here, we show that SIRT4 enhances the sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-FU. Mechanistically, SIRT4 inhibits autophagy flow in CRC cells, and, inhibition of autophagy by bafilomycin or shATG5 counteracts the increased sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-FU caused by SIRT4. Further, SIRT4 inhibited glutamine metabolism and thus ammonia production in CRC cells by inhibiting glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), whereas inhibition of glutamine metabolism by BPTES or addition of ammonium chloride to the medium counteracted the inhibition of autophagy caused by SIRT4. Finally, inhibition of glutamine metabolism or addition of ammonium chloride to the medium counteracted the difference in sensitivity of CRC cells to 5-FU caused by SIRT4. Together, the current findings identify a novel role of SIRT4 in autophagy manipulation and demonstrate the molecular mechanism behind SIRT4 in enhancing the sensitivity of colorectal cancer cells to 5-FU, providing a promising strategy to increase the efficacy of 5-FU for the treatment of colorectal cancer.
Aggression, exposure to violence, opportunity factors, and school bullying perpetration among Hong Kong early adolescents
Authors: Siu Cheuk Lap Jacky , Zhong Hua , Wong Sing-Wing Dennis
Published: July 2023

Extensive studies have identified the predictive effect of aggression on school bullying. Despite those efforts, there is a paucity of research examining the underlying mechanisms of the aggression-bullying relationship. Drawing on the notion of social network analysis, this study argues that exposure to violence may explain the aggression-bullying association, whereas the mediating effect of exposure to violence may be conditioned by three opportunity factors (neutralization of use of violence, family harmony, and positive school climate). Data used in this study were derived from a questionnaire survey with a school-based random sample of 2,976 Hong Kong early adolescents (aged 10 to 14). The findings of mediation and moderated mediation analyses indicated that reactive aggression, proactive-power related aggression, and proactive-affiliation related aggression have predictive effects on school bullying perpetration. Besides, this study provided solid support for the mediating role of exposure to violence on the aggression-bullying relationship. Moreover, the results revealed that the neutralization technique “defense of necessity” aggravates the indirect effect of aggression on bullying, whereas limited support was granted for the mitigating effect of family harmony and positive school climate. Limitations and policy implications are discussed.
IPCC Tier 1 methodology overestimates the carbon footprint of smallholder cattle production systems in Kenya
Authors: Korir Daniel , Ndung'u Phyllis , Onyango Alice , Marquardt Svenja , Arndt Claudia , Goopy John , Eckard Richard
Published: July 2023

Most Sub-Saharan countries still rely on the basic Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) Tier 1 methodology for reporting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from their livestock sector. This approach is, however, associated with high uncertainty and cannot detect changes in GHG emissions resulting from mitigation interventions. The present study aimed to quantify the effect of replacing the IPCC Tier 1 methodology with Tier 2 approaches in assessing total farmgate GHG emissions and products' emission intensities (EIs) in smallholder cattle production in Western Kenya. Additionally, the study assessed the effect of using locally measured methane yield (MY) instead of regional defaults in Tier 2 estimations. A partial life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted using aggregated activity data from two contrasting study sites, one with moderately performing and another with low-performing cattle production systems. The total farmgate GHG emissions were allocated to the co-products, namely milk and live weight gain, using the novel energy expenditure allocation method, in comparison to the traditionally used protein mass allocation. Compared Tier 1 methodology, the use of Tier 2 approaches resulted in 18-44% lower total farmgate GHG emissions and milk EIs across the two study sites. When the IPCC regional MY default was substituted with locally measured MY, the total GHG emissions and milk EI increased by 19-25%. These findings suggest that the continued use of IPCC Tier 1 methodology or Tier 2 MY defaults by East African countries are resulting in considerable uncertainty in their livestock GHG inventory reporting. There is therefore a need for these developing nations to adopt higher-tier methodologies as well as measure and utilize locally relevant MY for more accurate inventory reporting and to be able to assess suitable GHG mitigation strategies for local cattle production systems. Additionally, the study found that the energy expenditure allocation method apportioned a lower proportion of GHG emissions to milk production compared to live weight gain, reflecting the greater nutrient use efficiency by cattle in producing milk than gaining weight. As developing countries are faced with the double challenge of increasing animal-sourced food to feed the growing population and a need to reduce GHG emissions associated with food production, it is sensible for these countries to report changes in product EIs rather than absolute emissions. It is, therefore, imperative to continually refine LCA methodology for more relevance in multifunctional smallholder systems for unbiased measurement of products' EIs from such systems.
Modelling the Dynamics of Information Warfare: An Attacker-Defender Scenario Using Lotka-Volterra Equations
Authors: Pandey Rashmikiran , Pandey Mrinal , Nazarov Alexey
Published: July 2023

The dynamics of information warfare in an attacker-defender scenario pose significant challenges in today's digital age. To address these challenges, this research proposes a model based on the modified Lotka-Volterra equations, originally developed for predator-prey interactions in ecological systems, to analyze and simulate the population dynamics of attackers and defenders in information warfare. The model captures the growth, interaction, and feedback loop between the attacker and defender populations, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of their dynamics over time. In this model, the attacker equation incorporates parameters for the attacker's growth rate and the impact of defenders on attackers. Similarly, the defender equation considers the defender's natural decline rate and the influence of attackers on defenders. By discretizing time into small intervals and employing Euler's method, the model enables real-time simulation of the attacker-defender scenario. The simulation spans a time interval of 100 units, providing insights into the population dynamics and equilibrium points of the attacker and defender populations. The research findings highlight the model's effectiveness in capturing the dynamics of information warfare. The simulation results showcase the initial growth of the attacker population, followed by a decline as defenders implement effective countermeasures. Conversely, the defender population grows and stabilizes as their defensive capabilities improve. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge in information warfare and provides insights for the development of robust defence strategies.
The Mediator Role of Task Performance in the Effect of Digital Literacy on Firm Performance
Authors: Sadik Tatli Hasan , Sefa Yavuz Melih , Ongel Gokten
Published: July 2023

Digital technologies, which have made significant progress in the last two decades, have paved the way for the emergence of many new-generation devices, platforms and applications. The increase in the use of these technologies has transformed many activities in daily life and significantly changed the business world. The concept of digital transformation, which has become a popular motto for many companies today, has improved the interaction between companies and consumers and changed how companies do business, making the transformation necessary. Digital transformation in businesses can be partial (such as establishing new departments or marketing channels) or major (such as changing the entire business model). In any case, digital transformation is a necessity of the current age. Human capital is vital in increasing the firm performance of companies and gaining a competitive advantage against their competitors. Today, one factor that can improve employees’ task performance in digital economies is digital competencies. Therefore, having a certain level of digital literacy among employees is crucial for companies to achieve adequate performance in digitalization and beyond. From this perspective, this research aims to determine the effect of employees’ digital literacy on their task performance and firm performance. Investigation of this topic in the paper is carried out in the following logical sequence: First of all, the research presents the conceptual framework for digital literacy, task performance, and firm performance. The results of studies in the literature are presented, and the hypothesis development process is based on the research results. The subsequent section provides information about the study’s methodology and findings. Finally, the research concludes with the results and discussion section. Within the scope of the study, data were collected from 222 white-collar employees in Istanbul through online questionnaires. A convenience sampling technique was used to determine the sample. SPSS 25 and SPSS Process 2.13 package programs were used to analyse the data. The research results show a medium-level relationship between digital literacy and task performance, a medium-level relationship between digital literacy and firm performance, and a high and positive relationship between firm performance and task performance. According to the mediation analysis results, employees’ digital literacy positively affects task performance and firm performance. In addition, it has been determined that task performance plays a mediating role in the effect of employees’ digital literacy on firm performance. It appears that company managers should prioritize the focus of the «Reskilling Revolution Initiative», which emphasizes the transformation of employees’ skills to attain sustainable competitive advantage and enable digital transformation.
Three-component strain gauge for precise measurement of load fluctuations
Authors: Zhavyrkin V. V. , Sladkova L. A.
Published: July 2023

The aim was to assess the loading of large-size elements of machine structures using versatile strain gauges. A strain gauge was developed using a system analysis of failures and deficiencies in the manufacture and operation of large-scale structures, strain gauging, strength of materials methods, as well as the theory of elasticity of ring elastic elements. The ANSIS software package was used to calculate rational sensor parameters. The conducted study of ring elastic deformation (determination of stiffness and stress-strain state) allowed the authors to propose that the ring shape should be replaced by an octahedral polygon. This form is suitable for mounting strain gauges for simultaneous measurement of tension and compression, as well as bending and torsion, i.e., forces arising in a machine structural element or in the manufacture of large-size surfaces. The obtained results were used to derive dependences to determine the measurement error of the gauge under study. A comparative analysis of ring and octahedral gauges identified unique features of the latter, consisting in the possibility of assessing the measured values along the three coordinate axes with a high degree of accuracy. The conducted research shows that the proposed strain gauges are capable of registering the magnitude and fluctuations of loads with a high measurement accuracy. The proposed scheme of gauge placement makes it possible to determine the vertical and horizontal components of the forces arising in a structural element and to assess deviations in the process of measurement. In addition, the proposed measuring scheme minimizes the error of mutual influence of sensors. The developed force meter is a versatile device that can be used for registering static and dynamic impacts, as well as for digital control of force parameters in the range of up to 5 mm.
Study of switching overvoltages in electrical networks up to 1000 V
Authors: Tikhonov K. V.
Published: July 2023

The aim was to study the effect of switching modes on the power of supply transformers in electrical networks up to 1000 V on the multiplicity of switching overvoltages, as well as to develop recommendations for their reduction. The study was carried out during switching of supply transformers in networks up to 1000 V. Vacuum contactors were used to study overvoltages arising during switching of supply transformers. Overvoltages were recorded using an RDN-1000 active divider and a Tektronix TDS2024B digital oscilloscope. The RC circuit capacitance was measured by a Mastech MY6243 digital LC-meter. To limit switching overvoltages, RC quenchers based on RC circuits were used, reducing not only the switching pulse amplitude, but also the rate of the switching pulse voltage rise. In addition, RC quenchers lack fading zones under high-frequency switching pulses. The capacitance of the primary winding of the transformers under study was measured. An increase in the transformer power was found to lead to a decrease in the multiplicity of switching overvoltages, when the transformer is disconnected from the mains. Under a 1.5-fold increase in the power of the transformer, its inductance and wave impedance decreases. As a result, when the same capacitance is connected to the transformer terminals, the wave resistance in more powerful transformers will be reduced to a larger extent (by 3 to 6 times), thus providing a more effective overvoltage limitation. The conducted experimental studies confirmed the effectiveness of RC circuits in limiting switching overvoltages.
Methods for removing chloride ions to manufacture zinc from arc melting dust
Authors: Bludova D. I. , Mamyachenkov S. V. , Anisimova O. S.
Published: July 2023

In this work, we review literature sources to identify an industrial-scale technology for manufacturing cathode zinc from technogenic chlorine-containing raw materials of a complex chemical composition, in particular, from arc melting dust. The conducted review of Russian and foreign publications was used to search for a method of purifying process solutions with a high concentration of chloride ions produced by hydrometallurgical processing of technogenic arc melting dusts. It was found that the existing purification methods are associated with substantial limitations, including strict requirements for the acidity of the treated solution, low efficiency of treatment, secondary contamination of the medium by released chloride ions, and the high cost of reagents or equipment. Approaches to reducing the chlorine content in the initial dust and dechlorination of process solutions based on principles of sedimentation, ion exchange, sorption, and oxidation are described. In addition, we analyzed information published on chlorine removal from process effluents and solutions of various nature. Industrially-implemented and recently-reported laboratory methods of solution dechlorination were compared in terms of their feasibility, economic efficiency, and extent of chloride ion removal. It was concluded that the disadvantages of existing methods for processing technogenic chlorine-containing raw materials of arc melting can be eliminated by developing large, stable, and cheap hydride technologies based on principles of extraction, ion exchange, and sedimentation.
Avaliação de fatores que interferem no consumo e desperdício de refeições de pacientes em ala psiquiátrica de um hospital do sul do Brasil: um estudo de caso
Authors: Becker Carolina , José Strasburg Virgílio , Regina Storck Cátia , Rihl Castro Luísa , Argenta Comiran Sabrina
Published: July 2023

Esse estudo teve como objetivo identificar os fatores que interferem no consumo e desperdício de alimentos nas refeições de almoço e jantar na ala psiquiátrica de um hospital público universitário da cidade de Porto Alegre/RS. Método: Estudo transversal de caráter descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa, no período de 27 de setembro a 26 de novembro de 2021. Utilizou-se o método de pesagem direta de cubas de cada preparação antes e após a refeição, descontando-se o valor do peso da cuba. Foram utilizados como critérios de inclusão pacientes internados por meio do SUS, recebendo dieta normal. Resultados: Nos 25 dias avaliados a média diária de refeições foi de 18, com o total de 452 refeições no período. O tempo médio de internação foi de 7 a 15 dias. Identificou-se a predominância da faixa etária de adultos, quando comparado a idosos, e 50,6% de pacientes do sexo masculino. Observou-se diferença de desperdício de alimentos em dias com e sem rotina de eletroconvulsoterapia (ECT). Analisando o cardápio, o percentual de sobra total foi de 29,37% para guarnições e de 36,69% para as carnes. Guarnições com cores alaranjadas tiveram os menores consumos. A carne de frango foi ofertada 74% das vezes e foi a mais desperdiçada. Conclusão: A avaliação da clientela atendida em uma Unidade de Alimentação e Nutrição é um fator importante para o monitoramento de consumo e preferências alimentares. No âmbito hospitalar, e especialmente para pacientes psiquiátricos, essas variáveis são fundamentais para evitar desperdícios de alimentos, conforme demonstrado pelos resultados encontrados neste estudo.
A fenntartható fejlődés fogalmának hétköznapi értelmezése és összevetése a tudományos definícióval
Authors: Kolnhofer-Derecskei Anita , Reicher Regina Zsuzsánna , Hauber György , Majláth Melinda
Published: July 2023

A fenntartható fejlődés és az azon alapuló 17 fenntartható fejlődési cél (SDG) megismerése közös érdek, a hétköznapi életben mégsem ismert vagy nem tudatosan kezelt jelenség. A fenntartható fejlődési célok elérésének érdekében folytatott diskurzus során fontos lenne, hogy a fogalom értelmezése hasonló legyen a döntéshozók és az érintettek számára is. Kutatásunkban arra kerestük a választ, hogy a fenntarthatóság három pillére megjelenik-e a szabadon visszaadott definíciókban, és felfedezhetünk-e bizonyos mintázatokat, illetve eltéréseket a megfogalmazásokban. A megkérdezett közel 150 fő válaszait az ENSZ által is elfogadott tudományos definíció alapján kódoltuk, a válaszokban megjelenő példákat pedig az SDG listához igazítottuk, majd NVivo14 segítségével elemeztük. Elemzésünk egy ponton mutatott eltérést: a nők és a férfiak eltérően értelmezik ezt a jelenséget. Míg a hölgyek válaszaiban a fenntarthatóság környezeti pillére erős, a férfiaknál a gazdasági szempont volt hangsúlyosabb. A társadalmi szempont mindkét nem válaszában megjelent. Tanulmányunkban az elemzések bemutatása mellett kitértünk az eltérés lehetséges okaira és ennek gazdasági jelentőségére is.
Zagreb Topological Properties of Hexa Organic Molecular Structures
Authors: Iqbal Javaria , Salman Muhammad
Published: July 2023

Background:

In connection with the study of chemical graph theory, it has been explored that a single number can capture the numerical representation of a molecular structure, and this number is known as a topological property (index).

Objective:

This study aimed to explore a few Zagreb topological properties for four hexa organic molecular structures (hexagonal, honeycomb, silicate, and oxide) based on the valency and valency sum of atoms in the structure.

Methods:

We employed the technique of partitioning the set of bonds according to the valency and valency-sum of end atoms of each bond and then performed the computation by using combinatorial rules of counting (that is, the rule of sum and the rule of product). The obtained results were also compared numerically and graphically.

Results and Conclusion:

Exact values of five valencies based and five valency-sum-based Zagreb topological properties were found for the underline chemical structures.
Prosthetic Management in Pediatric Dentistry
Authors: Patil Anil , Srigiri S , Sakhare Dhanashree
Published: July 2023

Prosthetic management is the healing part of the dentistry which plays a crucial role in rehabilitating the missing or damaged oral and maxillofacial structures. Dental aesthetics is a paramount important aspect in today’s society and is faced by many challenges like age, periodontal condition, occlusal adjustments, patient’s cooperation etc., to overcome this the dentist should have a thorough knowledge regarding prothesis before the fabrication and delivery. In this chapter, various prosthesis like removable partial denture, fixed partial denture, complete denture, implants, maxillofacial prostheses their types, advantages, disadvantages, indications, contraindications, fabrication etc., have been discussed in detail which will help in successfully understanding and treating the patient to obtain positive treatment outcome.
Pediatric Endodontics
Authors: Pandit I. K. , Galhotra Vitrat , Kasar Parag D.
Published: July 2023

Pediatric endodontics is an integral part of dental practice that aims to preserve fully-functional primary teeth in the dental arch. Despite advances in the prevention of dental caries in pediatric dentistry, the occurrence of pulpal-involved primary teeth and their premature loss continue to be a common problem. The benefits of preserving primary teeth are of utmost importance. Primary teeth aid in mastication, phonation, and guidance of permanent tooth bud, harmonized temporal and spatial development of permanent teeth and prevent the detrimental psychological effects due to tooth loss. Despite the emphasis, prevention in primary teeth remains much talked about and rarely practiced. Restoration of a child’s dentition to a healthy, functional status is often complicated by the severity of dental caries, particularly in the primary dentition, which often falls prey to the ravages of decay. Moreover, primary dentition is often regarded as transient and hence, undeserving of much time or effort. The intervention is only sorted when the child experiences pain due to the decay. Unfortunately, the delay incurred due to dental caries renders the tooth non-restorable.
Traumatic Injuries to Anterior Teeth: Introduction, Prevalence, and Classifications
Authors: Kalaskar Ritesh , Jetpurwala Abdulkadeer M.
Published: July 2023

Smile with beautiful natural teeth is one of the greatest assets of a person. Untreated fractured teeth can affect day to day activities of children in school which can have a psychological impact on children. Apart from dental caries and periodontal diseases, a traumatic dental injury is the third most common cause of tooth loss. Violence, accidents, falls and sport-related activities are the leading causes of traumatic dental injuries, that majorly involve anterior teeth. Epidemiological studies indicate that dental trauma is a significant problem in young people and that soon, it will be a major dental health care requirement. Prevalence of traumatic dental injury in primary and permanent dentition ranges from 9.4-41.6% and 1% to 58.6%, respectively. The management of traumatic injuries to anterior teeth is also changing with advances in materials sciences and understanding of the mechanism of traumatic injuries.
Traumatic Injuries to Anterior Teeth: Etiology, Predisposing Factors and Examination
Authors: Jetpurwala Abdulkadeer M. , Rathi Nilesh , Kalaskar Ritesh
Published: July 2023

Traumatic injuries are commonly seen in children. There are various causes and factors that make an individual or a particular tooth more susceptible to traumatic injury. Owing to factors like early fine motor development of infants and toddlers, participation in sports and other physical activities, accidental and non-accidental injuries or common reasons, children may suffer from dental trauma. Many facial types like convex facial profiles, class malocclusions and malposition of teeth also make the teeth prone to trauma. This section describes the etiologic and predisposing factors and sketches an outline for a detailed examination of traumatic dental injuries.
Saliva and Oral Health
Authors: Patil Vishwas , Chaugule Vishwas , Shah Heeral
Published: July 2023

The mouth is a window to the body, and saliva plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of oral structures. Saliva is that complex fluid that controls oral health through specific and nonspecific physical and chemical properties. The significance of saliva in our everyday activities and its medicinal properties are often taken for granted. However, when disruptions occur in the quality or quantity of saliva in an individual, he or she will likely experience detrimental effects on oral and systemic health. Often head and neck radiotherapy have serious and detrimental side effects on the oral cavity, including the loss of salivary gland function and a persistent complaint of a dry mouth (xerostomia). Thus, saliva has many beneficial functions that are essential to our well-being. Although saliva has been extensively investigated as a medium, few laboratories have further studied saliva’s role in maintaining oral and general health and found saliva as a fascinating biological fluid that possesses the features of a perfect diagnostic tool. The presence of microbial, immunologic and molecular biomarkers in saliva offers these unique opportunities. These biomarkers aid in the early diagnosis and monitoring of oral diseases such as, dental caries, oral malignancies, infectious diseases and many more. Saliva has proved to be a good substrate for the early detection of oral diseases to evaluate therapeutic responses.
Pit and Fissure Sealants
Authors: Chaugule Vishwas , Patil Vishwas , Dasgupta Shreya
Published: July 2023

Newly erupted posterior teeth in both the primary and permanent dentitions are vulnerable to dental caries attack due to deep, uncoalesced, and not-so-soundly mineralized pits and fissures as compared to their matured counterparts. Therefore, it is more important to “catch them young” before it becomes too late to save them from the deleterious effects of dental caries. Sealing such immature morphological structures with an appropriate sealing material is one of the primary prevention strategies Though this therapy sounds and appears simple, when conducted improperly, it results in the failure of the treatment motto. Hence, there is a need to gain in-depth knowledge of the material, intricacies in the proper selection of the teeth, technique and the behavior of the therapy eventually.This chapter provides an overview of the historic background and recent evidencebased clinical recommendations for the use of fissure sealants. It describes the different morphological variants of fissures and a wide range of commercially available products with their dispensing means. This writeup also enlightens the conceptual understanding of sealing non-cavitated fissures, therapeutic fissure sealing and smooth surface sealing. Troubleshooting in sealant therapy along with adverse reactions is also described.