bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MODERN MARKETING CONCEPTS AS A BASIS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MARKETING MANAGEMENT OF THE ENTERPRISE
Authors:   National University of Food Technologies, Belova Tatyana , Krainiuchenko Olga ,   National University of Food Technologies, Leleka Olga ,   National University of Food Technologies
Published: March 2024

Every enterprise tries to take a stable position in the market. For this, he needs to direct his activities to the maximum consideration of consumer requests. It is also necessary to build the entire activity of the company on the principles of marketing, which are embodied in modern marketing concepts. Modern marketing concepts should be included in the process of restructuring the management of the enterprise based on the principles of marketing. Marketing is a business philosophy, therefore, the process of enterprise management should be imbued with marketing ideas. The model of improvement of marketing management should be based on modern concepts of marketing. These include: relationship marketing, green marketing, socially responsible and innovative marketing, Internet marketing, LOVE marketing, etc. Review of the content of the marketing management of the enterprise includes clarification of the company's mission, values, and goals. The missions and values of famous and successful companies were considered. The analysis showed that all of them have elements of certain modern marketing concepts. Perhaps this is the reason for their success. The greatest emphasis is placed on the concept of socially responsible marketing. All companies in question try to be responsible for the consequences of their activities, take into account the social demands of their consumers. The values of the companies in question are also based on modern marketing concepts. They take into account sincerity, openness, transparency in relations with clients. The goals of the company should be built taking into account the marketing direction. For clarity, it is desirable to build a tree of goals. The directions of goals can be of different nature: production, resource and others. But it is necessary to take into account the marketing goals. When analyzing the internal and external environment, it is also necessary to take into account the actions of marketing concepts. Contacts and agreements with suppliers, intermediaries, consumers, competitors should be based on openness, honesty, and customer orientation. And these are features of modern marketing concepts. The choice of strategic alternatives, the development and implementation of the strategy are also based on the principles of marketing concepts. Thus, the process of restructuring and improving marketing management based on modern marketing concepts is aimed at improving the results of companies.
DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM ON THE BASIS OF RECREATIONAL POTENTIAL IN THE TERRITORY OF KYIV REGION
Authors:   National University of Food Technologies, Bobko Alina , Kharchenko Olena ,   National University of Food Technologies
Published: March 2024

The main purpose of the article is to substantiate the theoretical, methodological and analytical foundations of tourism development based on recreational potential in modern conditions. The current difficult economic situation in the world in general and in Ukraine in particular makes it really relevant to study the problems of achieving sustainable socio-economic development of the country. In the modern world, recreation and tourism are considered to be extremely important areas of socio-economic activity. The importance of recreational tourism in modern society is extremely high, as it has an impact on all sectors of society, including cultural, economic and social life. The study of tourism development in the Kyiv region can help identify opportunities to increase economic activity in the region. The Kyiv region has a rich recreational and tourist potential to attract tourists. The study of this potential can identify natural, cultural and historical resources that can be used for tourism development. The following research methods were used to write this article: deduction, induction, analysis and synthesis, argumentation, abstraction, abstract-logical, statistical and economic, system analysis, integrated and systemic approaches, traditional methods and techniques of economic analysis (tabular, graphical). The article deals with theoretical aspects and practical features of tourism development based on its recreational potential in modern conditions. The essence, content and role of the recreational and tourist potential in the socio-economic development of territories are revealed. The analysis of the recreational and tourist potential in the territory of the Kyiv region is carried out. The recreational and tourist potential of the Kyiv region is estimated. The practical significance of the results obtained lies in the analysis and generalization of statistical and theoretical practical data of scientific research by scientists, the assessment calculation of the recreational and tourist potential of the Kyiv region and the identification of problems and prospects for the development of recreational tourism in the Kyiv region.
METHODOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF THE ANALYSIS OF FACTORS FOR THE FORMATION OF THE INDICATOR OF THE COST OF TOURIST PACKAGES
Authors:   Poltava State Agrarian University, Tiutiunnyk Yurii , Dorohan-Pysarenko Lyudmуla ,   Poltava State Agrarian University, Yehorova Olena ,   Poltava State Agrarian University
Published: March 2024

The article deals with the methodological aspects of the analysis of the factors of the formation of the cost of tourist packages as an important effective indicator of tourist activity. The positive dynamics of domestic and outbound tourism is manifested primarily in the increase in the number of tourist packages sold by tour operators and travel agents. On the other hand, the cost of realized tourist packages has a direct impact on the profitability of activities, the dynamics of tax payments in the industry and important characteristics of the financial and economic condition of enterprises in the field of tourism and recreation. It was determined that in the segment of the sale of tour packages by tour operators to other tour operators or travel agents for their further sale to tourists, the share in the structure in terms of quantity exceeds the share in the structure in terms of value. The same applies to tour packages that are sold to domestic and incoming (foreign) tourists for travel in Ukraine by all tour operators and travel agents. On the other hand, in the segment of the sale of tour packages to outbound tourists for trips abroad, the share in the structure by value exceeds the share in the structure by quantity. The cost of one tour package is a factor influencing the differences in the structure of the implemented tourist packages in terms of quantity and cost. Along with the number of realized tourist packages, the cost of one tourist package is a factor affecting the change in the total cost of realized tourist packages as a performance indicator. The decrease in the total cost of realized tourist packages in Ukraine in 2020 compared to 2019 is explained exclusively by the negative impact of the reduction in the number of realized tourist packages, while the cost of one tourist package showed growth. In our opinion, the most optimal option for the influence of factors on the positive dynamics of the total cost of realized tourist packages is the anticipatory growth of the number of tour packages compared to the growth of the cost of one tour package, which is a sign of the effective functioning of the tourist services market.
COUNTERING THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM: LEGAL AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS
Authors:   West Ukrainian National University, Babkova Tetiana , Vasylchyshyn Oleksandra ,   West Ukrainian National University
Published: March 2024

The article analyzes the legal situation regarding the expediency of an early decision to recognize countries that commit armed aggression as terrorist countries. The author outlines the positive aspects and issues that should be worked out in the domestic judicial practice regarding the appeal of persons to judicial institutions with civil and commercial claims against the Russian Federation for compensation for material and moral damages. The article analyzes the current ways and proposals to increase the responsibility of the Russian Federation for the invasion of Ukraine and the large-scale armed aggression of the Russian Federation against democratic Ukraine in order to protect its territorial integrity and national sovereignty. As a result, the authors emphasize that in order to stop the armed aggression of the Russian Federation, the EU Member States need to develop a legal framework for defining states as sponsors of terrorism and states using the means of terrorism, which will entail a number of significant restrictive measures against these countries and will have profound restrictive consequences for the EU's relations with these countries. In this work, the authors outline a number of issues related to the resolution of the judicial immunity of the Russian Federation in the context of the risks of further enforcement of such court decisions. The authors argue that the existing system of regulation of state immunity is not homogeneous in the world, and it is not designed for the situations taking place in Ukraine in connection with the invasion of the Russian Federation, and this raises a number of fundamental questions regarding the application of the concept of immunity to the latter. In addition, to address the issue of regulating relations with countries that show aggression, or rather with countries that act as a terrorist country or a country that finances terrorism, the author cites the experience of the developed algorithms of the United States and Canada as an example. The paper also focuses on the need to develop a procedure for the transfer of frozen Russian assets to Ukraine, since Ukraine needs the seized Russian assets today, primarily for the purchase of necessary weapons to destroy the manifestations of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation, to support Ukrainian forces on the ground, and subsequently to finance large-scale reconstruction of Ukraine. In general, the article presents proposals for the use of economic and legal levers of influence to stop the financial and economic sources of sponsoring military aggression against Ukraine.
Fracture Toughness of Monolithic Zirconia and Lithium Disilicate CAD/CAM Endocrown
Authors: Suci Aldrina Wulan Eka , Ratnasari Dina , Dwisaptarini Ade Prijanti , Elline Elline
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Endocrown is an indirect restoration following the endodontic treatment made of ceramic material as a substitute for post core crown. The endocrown is cemented to the inner wall of the pulp chamber and to the cavity margins to increase the macromechanical retention. Material commonly used are monolithic zirconia and lithium disilicate; both can be obtained using the CAD/CAM technique. Good endocrown restoration must be able to handle the chewing workload especially on the posterior tooth. Objective: To determine the difference in fracture toughness of monolithic zirconia and lithium disilicate CAD/CAM endocrown. Methods: This study used 6 endocrown CAD/CAM samples, attached to typodont prototype in 3D resin printing model produced by the printing machine. Samples were divided into 2 groups. Group A were monolithic zirconia endocrowns and group B were lithium disilicate endocrowns. The fracture toughness was calculated using the Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Results: Fracture toughness of the monolithic zirconia endocrown were 2.747 N and lithium disilicate were 769 N. The unpaired t test showed that there was significant difference in fracture toughness between groups (p < 0,05). Conclusion: Monolithic zirconia endocrown has a higher fracture toughness compared to the lithium disilicate endocrown, but lithium disilicate is more recommended as an endocrown restoration material because its fracture toughness is closer to masticatory load of posterior teeth.
Features of Mandarin Chinese in Parameters
Authors: Yu Yichen
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on the features of Mandarin Chinese in terms of head parameter, V-to-T parameter as well as the order of subject, verb and object. The purpose of this study is to show the performance of Mandarin Chinese in the scope of three major parameters. The study compares manifestations in parameters among multiple languages and examines previous views and related findings to illuminate some areas of the features of Mandarin Chinese. It is concluded that Chinese seems to have a mixed word order with head-final and head-initial properties co-exiting and exerting differences in different syntactic structures. The paper also raises an already heated topic and renders a possible explanation that other than all the parameters in hand, Mandarin deserves a new one to fit into.
Incidence of Restless Legs Syndrome in Pakistan and Its Relationship With Depression, Gender, and Age: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zahid Riha , Ali Muhammad Sundar
Published: March 2024

Objective: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder known to cause an uncomfortable feeling in the legs, that is alleviated by movement and the symptoms are worse at night or in the evening This study aims to find out the prevalence of restless legs syndrome in Pakistan and to investigate whether it has any association with depression, gender or age.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a sample size of 377 was calculated using Raosoft. However, 400 participants were included after informed verbal consent, but after 20 dropouts, 380 sample size was finalized. The diagnosis of RLS was done by International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) diagnostic criteria, the diagnosis of depression and its severity was checked by Becks Depression Inventory. A series of tests, namely, descriptive statistics, chi-square test, independent sample t-test, and one-way analysis of variance were calculated via SPSS Software version 27.Results: The prevalence of RLS in Pakistan is 23.7%. There was no difference in depression score with respect to RLS (F=0.270, p=0.604), and there was no difference in severity of depressive symptoms with respect to RLS (p=0.741). There was no difference in gender in prevalence of RLS (χ2=1.842, p=0.175). However, there is significant difference in RLS with respect to age (χ2=9.598, p=0.048).Conclusion: RLS is quite common in Pakistan with a prevalence of 23.7%. However, the onset of RLS is unrelated to depression and gender, but the prevalence of RLS increases with age. Future studies should focus on investigating severity of RLS and ways to prevent it. It is relation with age can be studied further to help with the prognosis.
Combined Influence of Fluctuations in the Local Atmosphere Conditions and Space Weather on the Chronoperiodic Systems in Patients With Cardiovascular Pathology
Authors: Hayrapetyan Hamlet G. , Babayan Lyusya A. , Karapetyan Jon K. , Babayan Vahe H. , Atoyan Naira K. , Gasparian Narine A.
Published: March 2024

This review paper explores the impact of fluctuations in environmental factors on human chrono-periodic systems. A multitude of external and internal environmental factors influence the organism throughout its lifespan, and many have the potential to disrupt human homeostasis. It would be inaccurate to assume that specific responses to each stimulus were developed and solidified during the evolutionary process. With the exception of genetic defects, there could not have been evolutionarily fixed pathological reactions in the body, as this would contradict the laws of selection. Therefore, all typical responses of the body to the stimulus should be considered primarily adaptive, i.e., physiological.
Impacts of Blue Light Exposure From Electronic Devices on Circadian Rhythm and Sleep Disruption in Adolescent and Young Adult Students
Authors: Alam Mudassir , Abbas Kashif , Sharf Yusra , Khan Sarfaraz
Published: March 2024

The excessive exposure of blue light, originated from electronic gadgets like smartphones, laptops, and tablets, may contribute to sleep problems. Long exposure to blue-wavelength light from these devices affects sleep by suppressing melatonin hormone and cause neurophysiologic consequences. This literature review highlights the most recent findings on the relationship between sleep disruption and blue light exposure among the high school and college student population. A variety of scientific studies have shown that blue light exposure, especially before bedtime, can create circadian disruptions and inhibit melatonin secretion in brain, which ultimately result in deteriorated sleep quality and duration. Sleep deprivation in duration and quality of sleep is reflected in negative effects on mood, learning memory, and academic performance of a student from middle school to college. In general, the accumulating evidence indicates that, to promote adolescent and young adult health, it is necessary to pay attention to the impacts of blue light exposure from modern technologies.
Komunikowanie instytucjonalne Kościoła katolickiego – kilka uwag w kontekście teorii figuracji komunikacyjnych
Authors: Leśniczak Rafał
Published: March 2024

Cel: w artykule wykazano użyteczność teorii figuracji komunikacyjnych w lepszym rozumieniu i analizie procesów komunikowania instytucjonalnego Kościoła katolickiego. Metodologia: w badaniach posłużono się metodą analizy, metodą krytyki piśmiennictwa i metodą przeglądu literatury. Jako narzędzie analizy wykorzystano koncepcję figuracji komunikacyjnych, odnosząc się do następujących właściwości figuracji: form komunikacyjnych (communicative forms), całości medialnych (media ensemble), konstelacji aktorów (constellation of actors) oraz tematycznego ramowania (thematic framing). Wnioski: koncepcja figuracji może stanowić ważny zbiór zasad właściwej polityki komunikacyjnej Kościoła, jak również podstawę do wypracowania kwestionariusza oceny stopnia saturacji medialnej. Kościół katolicki w instytucjonalny sposób wypełnia przestrzeń medialną oficjalnymi komunikatami oraz przekazem w mediach katolickich. Działalność eklezjalna w tym obszarze może stać się istotnym elementem sfery publicznej w wymiarze kulturowym i społeczno-politycznym. Oryginalność poznawcza: artykuł zwiększa wiedzę w obszarze badań nad procesami komunikowania instytucjonalnego Kościoła. W publikacji uwzględniono myśl badawczą m.in. takich przedstawicieli nauk społecznych jak A. Hepp, N. Elias, J. Mariański, J.M. La Porte, E. Fuster.
تأثير تمرينات وفق انموذج (كمب Camp) في التحصيل المعرفي ومهارة حائط الصد بالكرة الطائرة للطلاب
Authors: Ruqaya Hamza Knawi  , Assit.prof.D. Haider Mahmoud Abboud
Published: March 2024

الملخص

تعد النماذج التعليمية والاستراتيجيات المستخدمة الوسيلة الفعالة التي قد يكون من شأنها إن تساعد المدرسين لاختيار طريقة تدريسهم ويطبقوها على أرض الواقع، وأنموذج كمب واحد من النماذج المعتمدة في تصميم المناهج التعليمية في التربية الرياضية، إذ يتصف أنموذج كمب من صفات ذات طبيعة خاصة في التدريس، قد تساعد عملية التعلم لأنه يجمع خبرات ومعلومات في مجال التعليم والتخطيط والتطوير للوحدة الدراسية.

ان الضرورة القصوى في تحديد الوسيلة التعليمية التي لها أهمية كبيرة وفائدة لكل من المعلم والمتعلم والمادة التعليمية، وتساعد على رفع كفايته المهنية وتساعد في حسن عرض المادة الدراسية وتقويمها وتمكنه من استغلال كل الوقت بشكل أفضل وفي إثارة الدافعية للطلبة وتنمي حب الاستطلاع للمتعلم وهدفت الدراسة التعرف على تأثير التمرينات المعدة وفق أنموذج كمب في التحصيل المعرفي ومهارة حائط الصد للطلاب بالكرة الطائرة واستخدم الباحثان الحقيبة الاحصائية spss  لاستخراج نتائج البحث بعد اعداد الاختبارات المعنية للبحث والتي شملت اختبار حائط الصد والاختبار المعرفي والتمرينات المعدة وفق انموذج كمب وتوصل الباحثان الى ان التمرينات المعدة وفق انموذج كمب ساهمت وبشكل فعال في تطوير الجانب المعرفي لدى للطلاب عينة البحث .

وقد اوصى الباحثان بضرورة الإفادة من التمرينات المعدة وفق انموذج كمب في تطوير الجانب المعرفي والمهاري للطلاب بالكرة الطائرة.
Критеріально-ступеневі характеристики сформованості системи переконань особистості в кризових умовах
Authors: Гуляєва Анна , Журба Микола , Бохонкова Юлія , Журба Анатолій
Published: March 2024

У статті розкрито критеріально-ступеневі характеристики сформованості системи переконань особистості в кризових умовах (у перебігу вимушеного переселення). Встановлено, що для більшості респондентів притаманні цінності гуманізму: прагнення до добра, соціальної справедливості, кохання. Проте, внаслідок обмеженого спілкування з рідними з причин вимушеного переселення, з’являються різного роду фрустрації. Виявлено, що більше половини вимушених переселенців, віднесених до групи соціально мобільних, задоволені життям після переїзду більшою мірою, ніж до нього, що можна тлумачити як наслідок мобілізації внутрішніх ресурсів у кризових умовах, коли необхідно вибудовувати власне життя докорінно по-іншому. Застосування методу факторного аналізу уможливило виокремлення фундаментальних ознак, заснованих на взаємозвʼязку системи переконань та життєвої задоволеності особистості в кризових умовах. За даними факторного аналізу такими факторами виявилися: «Фундаментальні уявлення про світ», «Соціальна задоволеність», «Задоволеність індивідуальним життєвим простором», «Задоволеність здоров’ям» та «Інтегральна життєва задоволеність».
Здійснено порівняльний аналіз соціально-психологічних особливостей системи переконань вимушених переселенців та осіб, не змушених до переселення. З’ясовано, що між зазначеними категоріями респондентів є низка розбіжностей за показниками базових переконань та життєвої задоволеності. Це надало можливість виділити соціально-психологічні особливості системи переконань вимушених переселенців, віднесених до групи осіб із низькою соціальною мобільністю в кризових умовах, які полягають у різкому падінні відчуття субʼєктивного благополуччя, меншій задоволеності різноманітними аспектами життєдіяльності і життєздійснення (здоров’ям, трудовою діяльністю, відпочинком, власним настроєм, економічним становищем) та базовими переконаннями про себе та навколишній світ.
Ключові слова: особистість, система переконань особистості, кризові умови, субʼєктивне благополуччя, вимушене переселення, соціальна мобільність.
Динамічність соціально-психологічних конструктів смисложиттєвих орієнтацій та самоактуалізації особистості в управлінській діяльності
Authors: Родченкова Ірина , Завацька Наталія , Попович Ігор , Литвиненко Ольга , Федорова Олена
Published: March 2024

У статті розкрито динамічність соціально-психологічних конструктів смисложиттєвих орієнтацій та самоактуалізації особистості в управлінській діяльності. Показано, що смисложиттєві орієнтації та самоактуалізація особистості розгортаються через проблеми сенсу життя й життєтворення особистості, завдяки особистісно-ціннісній регуляції та виступають як провідний чинник її самотворення і самоефективності; відіграють суттєву роль у самоздійсненні особистості. Визначено індивідуально-типологічну та соціально-психологічну специфіку смисложиттєвих орієнтацій і самоактуалізації особистості в управлінській діяльності. Розкрито і операціоналізовано концептуальну модель соціально-психологічних умов й чинників розвитку смисложиттєвих орієнтацій та самоактуалізації особистості в управлінській діяльності, що охоплює самореалізацію в особистісному зростанні (саморозвиток), індивідуальнісну самореалізацію (мобілізація ресурсів), соціальну (взаємостосунки) та екзистенційну (життєреалізування) самореалізацію особистості в управлінській діяльності. Науково обґрунтовано й емпірично перевірено багаторівневу соціально-психологічну програму розвитку смисложиттєвих орієнтацій та самоактуалізації особистості в управлінській діяльності, розроблену із залученням системи інноваційних розвивальних впливів і технік активації свідомості.
Ключові слова: особистість, управління, управління команди, смисложиттєві орієнтації, самоактуалізація, особистісно-ціннісна регуляція, самоефективність, самоздійснення, сучасний соціум.
MENINGKATKAN MOTORIK HALUS MELALUI KEGIATAN MELUKIS BEBAS MENGGUNAKAN MEDIA BENANG BERWARNA
Authors: Nurjannah Rastra , Imran Ranny Fitria , Margaretha Lidya
Published: March 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui apakah melalui kegiatan melukis bebas menggunakan media benang berwarna dapat meningkatkan motorik halus pada anak kelompok B di PAUD PEMBINA Negeri I Kota Bengkulu. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan metode observasi dan dokumentasi. Analisis data dilakukan secara deskriptif kualitatif-kuantitatif dengan penekananya digunakan untuk menentukan peningkatan proses yang dinyatakan dalam sebuah predikat, sedangkan analisis data kuantitatif digunakan untuk menentukan peningkatan hasil dengan menggunakan persentase.
Some Refinements and Reverses of Callebaut's Inequality for Isotonic Functionals via a Result Due to Cartwright and Field
Authors: Dragomır Sever
Published: March 2024

In this paper we obtain some refinements and reverses of Callebaut's inequality for isotonic functionals via a result of Young's inequality due to Cartwright and Field.
On a Generalized Mittag-Leffler Function and Fractional Integrals
Authors: Kumar Virendra
Published: March 2024

The object of this paper is to study a generalized Mittag-Leffler function and a modified general class of functions which is reducible to several special functions. convergent conditions of these functions are discussed. Some results pertaining to the generalized Mittag-Leffler function and generating relations involving these functions are derived. Further, fractional integrals involving these functions are achieved. Some illustrative exclusive cases of the results are presented.
New Exact and Numerical Experiments for the Caudrey-Dodd-Gibbon Equation
Authors: Karakoç Seydi Battal Gazi , Yıldırım Sucu Derya
Published: March 2024

In this study, an exact and a numerical method namely direct algebraic method and collocation finite element method are proposed for solving soliton solutions of a special form of fifth-order KdV (fKdV) equation that is of particular importance: Caudrey-Dodd-Gibbon (CDG) equation. For these aims, homogeneous balance method and septic B-spline functions are used for exact and numerical solutions, respectively. Next, it is proved by applying von-Neumann stability analysis that the numerical method is unconditionally stable. The error norms $L_{2}$ and $L_{\infty }$ have been computed to control proficiency and conservation properties of the suggested algorithm. The obtained numerical results have been listed in the tables. The graphs are modelled so that easy visualization of properties of the problem. Also, the obtained results indicate that our method is favourable for solving such problems.
On an $\left( \iota ,x_{0}\right) $-Generalized Logistic-Type Function
Authors: Karateke Seda
Published: March 2024

In this article, some mathematical properties of $\left( \iota ,x_{0}\right) $-generalized logistic-type function are presented. This four-parameter generalized function can be considered as a statistical phenomenon enhancing more vigorous survival analysis models. Moreover, the behaviors of the relevant parametric functions obtained are examined with graphics using computer programming language Python 3.9.
A Novel Al-Al2O3 Non-Skid Composite Coating with Improved Wear Resistance Fabricated by Twin Wire Arc Spraying
Authors: Kwon Hansol , Park Youngjin , Kang Yongjin , Kim Dohyun , Nam Uk Hee , Byon Eungsun
Published: March 2024

In this study, novel non-skid Al-Al2O3 coatings with improved wear resistance were fabricated using twin wire arc spray (TWAS). TWAS Al coating was prepared as a reference sample and representative TWAS parameters (working distance, process gas pressure, arc current) were controlled to fabricate different Al-Al2O3 coatings. The Al-Al2O3 coatings showed a superior static coefficient of friction and higher surface roughness than the Al coating. The microstructural analysis of the Al-Al2O3 coatings revealed that the coatings contained Al splats, partially-melted Al2O3 particles, fully-melted Al2O3 splats and pores. The porosity and Al2O3 content of the Al-Al2O3 coatings varied with different process parameters. The Vickers hardness of the Al matrix showed a similar value in all samples, which means the deposition phenomena was the same. Ball-on-disc wear test with a Si3N4 ball was used to evaluate the wear resistance of the TWAS coatings. The weight loss of the Al-Al2O3 coatings were only 4.8 ~ 17.0 % of the Al coating, indicating that the wear resistance of the TWAS Al-Al2O3 coatings was superior. The TWAS coatings showed a complex wear mechanism, such as splat wear and abrasive wear. The distributed Al2O3 particles in Al-Al2O3 coating successfully suppressed the abrasive wear of the Al matrix, which contributed to the enhanced wear resistance. The results in this study indicated that the Al-Al2O3 composite coating has potential use as a novel non-skid coating.
Effects of Post-annealing Condition on Interfacial Reaction and Bonding Strength of Cu/Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu/Al Joint for Heat Dissipation Module Application
Authors: Jeong Dong Ik , Kim Gahui , Kim Doheon , Oh Minchul , Kim Geon-Hong , Park Young-Bae
Published: March 2024

The effects of post-annealing times at 150°C on the bonding strength and interfacial characteristics of Cu/Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu (SAC305)/Al were systematically evaluated. In the as-bonded sample, Cu6Sn5 intermetallic compound (IMC) was formed at the upper Cu/SAC305 interface, while Ag3Al IMC was formed at the lower SAC305/Al interface, and a black layer of Al2Cu IMC was formed at a distance of about 20 µm from the Al interface. The Al atoms from the Al pad diffused towards the SAC305 solder during the bonding process and reacted with Cu to form the Al2Cu IMC. After post-annealing for 500 h at 150°C, the growth of Cu-Sn and Al2Cu IMCs followed a linear relationship with the square root of the annealing time, which could be understood by a diffusion-dominant mechanism. To measure the bonding strength, the lap shear test was evaluated on the Cu/SAC305/Al structure with time during post-annealing at 150°C. Initial bonding strength of around 118.80 MPa decreased to 92.4MPa after post-annealing for 200h, and then remained constant until 500 h. And the fracture locus was the mixed mode of SAC305/Al2Cu interface and cohesive inside SAC305 solder. Also, when the post-annealing time was increased from 150 h to 200 h, the fracture toughness decreased sharply from 438 J/m3 to 100 J/m3. This decrease seems to be closely related to an increase in the SAC305/Al2Cu interface fracture mode. This is believed to be due to the increase in the SAC305/Al2Cu interface fracture mode due to the growth of the Al2Cu layer thickness.
Ultrasonic-assisted extraction, anti-biofilm activity, and mechanism of action of Ku Shen (Sophorae Flavescentis Radix) extracts against Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Zhao Yanan , Guo Siya , Li Shuge , Ye Enjun , Wang Wenfang , Wang Tong , Wen Ying , Guo Lei
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study is to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction process of Ku Shen (Sophorae Flavescentis Radix) extracts (KSE) against Vibrio parahaemolyticus and explore their anti-biofilm activity and mechanism of action. The ultrasonic-assisted extraction process of KSE optimized by single factor experiment, Box–Behnken design and response surface methodology was as follows: 93% ethanol as solvent, liquid/material ratio of 30 mL/g, ultrasonic power of 500 W, extraction temperature of 80°C and time of 30 min. Under these conditions, the diameter of inhibition circle of KSE was 15.60 ± 0.17 mm, which had no significant difference with the predicted value. The yield of dried KSE is 32.32 ± 0.57% and the content of total flavonoids in KSE was 57.02 ± 5.54%. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of KSE against V. parahaemolyticus were 0.25 and 0.5 mg/mL, respectively. Crystal violet staining, Congo red plate, spectrophotometry, CCK-8 and scanning electron microscopy were used to investigate the activity and mechanism of action of KSE against V. parahaemolyticus biofilm. The results showed that the sub-MIC of KSE could significantly inhibit biofilm formation, reduce the synthesis of polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA) and the secretion of extracellular DNA. In addition, the inhibition rate of biofilm formation and clearance rate of mature biofilm of 1.0 mg/mL KSE were 85.32 and 74.04%, and the reduction rate of metabolic activity of developing and mature biofilm were 77.98 and 74.46%, respectively. These results were confirmed by visual images obtained by scanning electron microscopy. Therefore, KSE has the potential to further isolate the anti-biofilm agent and evaluate it for the preservation process of aquatic products.
Propaedeutic and Therapeutic Practices Used for Retained Fetal Membranes by Rural European Veterinary Practitioners
Authors: Hanzen Christian , Rahab Hamza
Published: March 2024

The present study aimed to monitor the practices of European veterinarians for the diagnosis and treatment of retained fetal membranes in cattle. A questionnaire was established and distributed to veterinarians from five European countries. A total of 700 veterinarians participated in the survey. A vaginal examination, general examination and uterine palpation are carried out by 71%, 38% and 23% of veterinarians, respectively. Moreover, half of the veterinarians attempt to remove the placenta manually, 70% of them administer a combined local and general treatment if the cow has a fever (more than 39.5 °C), and 50% of them only administer IU treatment if no fever is observed. Tetracyclins, cefapirin and penicillins are the most used intrauterine (IU) antibiotics, whereas penicillin is the most used parenteral one. All other European veterinarians were less likely to use cefapirin and more likely to use oxytocin, Ca perfusion and NSAID than French and Walloon veterinarians. In conclusion, our study confirms the necessity of improving and rationalizing the diagnostic and therapeutic approach of the RFM, mainly to reduce the important problem of antibiotic resistance.
The Effect of Inulin Addition on Rice Dough and Bread Characteristics
Authors: Burešová Iva , Šebestíková Romana , Šebela Jaromír , Adámková Anna , Zvonková Magdalena , Skowronková Nela , Mlček Jiří
Published: March 2024

Inulin may be widely used in in the food industry due to its many health benefits. It has the potential to increase the insufficient nutritional quality of gluten-free bread. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the applicability of inulin in rice baking. The impact of added inulin (5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%) on the dough’s rheological, bread’s textural and sensory characteristics was evaluated. The extensibility of rice dough during uniaxial deformation tests (8.5 mm) was improved by the added inulin (10.2–12.3 mm). The presence of inulin softened the dough and shifted the gelatinization temperature toward higher values. The added inulin also increased the loaf’s specific volume (1.16–1.48 mL/g), tenderized the breadcrumbs, increased the crumb porosity (36–58%), and generally improved the crumb structure. The panelists favored the sensory characteristics of breads with inulin. However, baking losses were increased in these breads as well (15.1–18.5%). The effect of the added inulin on the dough and bread characteristics generally rose with an increasing addition of inulin, reaching the maximum in samples with 30% inulin. The presence of 40% inulin deteriorated some characteristics of the bread. Therefore, the addition of up to 30% of inulin seemed to be optimal for rice bread.
Route Planning Algorithms for Fleets of Connected Vehicles: State of the Art, Implementation, and Deployment
Authors: D’Emidio Mattia , Delfaraz Esmaeil , Di Stefano Gabriele , Frittella Giannantonio , Vittoria Edgardo
Published: March 2024

The introduction of 5G technologies has enabled the possibility of designing and building several new classes of networked information systems that were previously impossible to implement due to limitations on data throughput or the reliability of transmission channels. Among them, one of the most interesting and successful examples with a highly positive impact in terms of the quality of urban environments and societal and economical welfare is a system of semi-autonomous connected vehicles, where IoT devices, data centers, and fleets of smart vehicles equipped with communication and computational resources are combined into a heterogeneous and distributed infrastructure, unifying hardware, networks, and software. In order to efficiently provide various services (e.g., patrolling, pickup and delivery, monitoring), these systems typically rely on collecting and broadcasting large amounts of data (e.g., sensor data, GPS traces, or maps), which need to be properly collected and processed in a timely manner. As is well documented in the literature, one of the most effective ways to achieve this purpose, especially in a real-time context, is to adopt a graph model of the data (e.g., to model communication networks, roads, or interactions between vehicles) and to employ suitable graph algorithms to solve properly defined computational problems of interest (e.g., shortest paths or distributed consensus). While research in this context has been extensive from a theoretical perspective, works that have focused on the implementation, deployment, and evaluation of the practical performance of graph algorithms for real-world systems of autonomous vehicles have been much rarer. In this paper, we present a study of this kind. Specifically, we first describe the main features of a real-world information system employing semi-autonomous connected vehicles that is currently being tested in the city of L’Aquila (Italy). Then, we present an overview of the computational challenges arising in the considered application domain and provide a systematic survey of known algorithmic results for one of the most relevant classes of computational problems that have to be addressed in said domain, namely, pickup and delivery problems. Finally, we discuss implementation issues, adopted software tools, and the deployment and testing phases concerning one of the algorithmic components of the mentioned real-world system dedicated to handling a specific problem of the above class, namely, the pickup and delivery multi-vehicle problem with time windows.
Evaluation of Trabecular Bone Microarchitecture and Bone Mineral Density in Young Women, Including Selected Hormonal Parameters
Authors: Sowińska-Przepiera Elżbieta , Krzyścin Mariola , Syrenicz Igor , Ćwiertnia Adrianna , Orlińska Adrianna , Ćwiek Dorota , Branecka-Woźniak Dorota , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta , Bumbulienė Žana , Syrenicz Anhelli
Published: March 2024

The absence of non-invasive methods for assessing bone material and structural changes is a significant diagnostic challenge. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) bone mineral density (BMD) testing is the gold standard for osteoporosis diagnosis. BMD and the trabecular bone score (TBS) have facilitated targeted osteoporosis prevention and treatment in clinical settings. The findings from this study indicate that BMD modulation in young women is influenced by various hormones, potentially compromising the diagnostic precision of BMD for subclinical bone demineralization. A total of 205 women aged 19 to 37 underwent anthropometric measurements and hormonal tests. BMD was determined using DXA, and TBS values were computed from the lumbar spine L1–L4 segment. The multivariate analysis findings suggest that BMD might not be determined by hormones. The relationship between TBS and TSH was statistically significant in the univariate analysis, which indicates the efficacy of further studies to determine the link between TBS and specific hormones. Analyzing the strength of the correlation between TBS and hormones in the univariate analysis shows which factors are worth considering in further analyses. This makes it possible to create better techniques that will help identify young women who are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Fluoroquinolones in Community-Acquired Pneumonia-Associated Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Yudhawati Resti , Wicaksono Nisrina Fitriyanti
Published: March 2024

Community-acquired pneumonia is reported as one of the infectious diseases that leads to the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome. The innate immune system is the first line of defence against microbial invasion; however, its dysregulation during infection, resulting in an increased pathogen load, stimulates the over-secretion of chemokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This phenomenon causes damage to the epithelial–endothelial barrier of the pulmonary alveoli and the leakage of the intravascular protein into the alveolar lumen. Fluoroquinolones are synthetic antimicrobial agents with immunomodulatory properties that can inhibit bacterial proliferation as well as exhibit anti-inflammatory activities. It has been demonstrated that the structure of fluoroquinolones, particularly those with a cyclopropyl group, exerts immunomodulatory effects. Its capability to inhibit phosphodiesterase activity leads to the accumulation of intracellular cAMP, which subsequently enhances PKA activity, resulting in the inhibition of transcriptional factor NF-κB and the activation of CREB. Another mechanism reported is the inhibition of TLR and ERK signalling pathways. Although the sequence of events has not been completely understood, significant progress has been made in comprehending the specific mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory effects of fluoroquinolones. Here, we review the indirect immunomodulatory effects of FQs as an alternative to empirical therapy in patients diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia.
USP7 Deregulation Impairs S Phase Specific DNA Repair after Irradiation in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Vogt Marie , Classen Sandra , Krause Ann Kristin , Peter Nadja-Juanita , Petersen Cordula , Rothkamm Kai , Borgmann Kerstin , Meyer Felix
Published: March 2024

The ubiquitin specific protease 7 (USP7) is a deubiquitinating enzyme with numerous substrates. Aberrant expression of USP7 is associated with tumor progression. This study aims to investigate how a deregulated USP7 expression affects chromosomal instability and prognosis of breast cancer patients in silico and radiosensitivity and DNA repair in breast cancer cells in vitro. The investigations in silico were performed using overall survival and USP7 mRNA expression data of breast cancer patients. The results showed that a high USP7 expression was associated with increased chromosomal instability and decreased overall survival. The in vitro experiments were performed in a luminal and a triple-negative breast cancer cell line. Proliferation, DNA repair, DNA replication stress, and survival after USP7 overexpression or inhibition and irradiation were analyzed. Both, USP7 inhibition and overexpression resulted in decreased cellular survival, distinct radiosensitization and an increased number of residual DNA double-strand breaks in the S phase following irradiation. RAD51 recruitment and base incorporation were decreased after USP7 inhibition plus irradiation and more single-stranded DNA was detected. The results show that deregulation of USP7 activity disrupts DNA repair in the S phase by increasing DNA replication stress and presents USP7 as a promising target to overcome the radioresistance of breast tumors.
The Effects of Traditional Chinese Herbal Dietary Formula on the Ability of Daily Life and Physical Function in Elderly Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Xu Xiaofan , Shi Dan , Chen Yuchen , Wang Luyao , Jiang Jiehui , Xiao Shuyun
Published: March 2024

We aimed to examine the association of traditional Chinese herbal dietary formulas with ability of daily life and physical function in elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment. The current study included 60 cases of elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment from Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Hongkou District, Shanghai. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: group A (herbal dietary formula group, consisting of Alpiniae Oxyphyllae Fructus, Nelumbinis plumula, Chinese Yam, Poria cocos, and Jineijin), 30 cases, and group B (vitamin E), 30 cases, treatment for 3 months. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE); body function was measured using the Chinese Simplified Physical Performance Test (CMPPT), including stand static balance, sitting-up timing, squat timing, and six-meter walk timing. Daily life based on ability was measured by grip strength and the Activity of Daily Living Scale (ADL). The lower the scores of the above items, the poorer the disease degree, except for ADL: the lower the score, the higher the self-care ability. After 3 months of treatment, the two-handed grip strength of both the herbal dietary formula group and vitamin E group increased; the ADL, sitting-up timing, squatting timing, and six-meter walking timing decreased after medication, being statistically significantly different (p < 0.05). The two-handed grip strength of group A increased significantly, and the ADL, sitting-up timing, squatting timing, and six-meter walking timing decreased distinctly compared with the vitamin E group. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). The scores of MMSE, MOCA, total CMPPT, and standing static balance of the herbal dietary formula group increased after medication. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The vitamin E group’s MMSE and MOCA scores, CMPPT total scores, and standing resting balance scores did not change significantly after medication (p > 0.05). In summary, a traditional Chinese herbal dietary formula can improve body and cognitive function in patients with MCI, and the curative effect is better than that of vitamin E. Traditional Chinese herbal dietary formulas can improve the daily life quality of MCI patients, which has clinical application value.
Lipid Profile, Eating Habit, and Physical Activity in Children with Down Syndrome: A Prospective Study
Authors: Pecoraro Luca , Zadra Melissa , Cavallin Francesco , Lauriola Silvana , Piacentini Giorgio , Pietrobelli Angelo
Published: March 2024

Children with Down Syndrome (DS) frequently undergo health challenges, including a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity. We aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary and physical advice provided by a specialized pediatrician over two years. In this prospective study, 44 children with DS, aged 2 to 17, underwent outpatient follow-up visits every six months between December 2020 and May 2023. Dietary habits, physical activities, anthropometric data, and laboratory results were recorded at baseline and 2-year follow-up. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and physical activity were investigated using the ‘KIDMED’ and ‘Godin–Shepard Leisure-Time’ questionnaires, respectively, completed by the parents of the children. Venous blood samples were taken to determine the lipid profile. A significant reduction in BMI z-scores (p = 0.006) and an improvement in Godin–Shepard questionnaire scores (p = 0.0004) were observed. On the other hand, the lipid profile worsened, with an increase in LDL-c (p = 0.04) and a decrease in HDL-c (p = 0.03). Children with DS may benefit from an educational program on nutrition and physical activity to optimize weight control. Different interventions should target the lipid profile. Preventive intervention and follow-up by the pediatrician are essential for DS, which should continue into adulthood.