bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of E-Commerce Models on Financial Sustainability of Deposit Money Banks in Akure, Nigeria
Authors: Bedu Adenike Adekiitan , Abayomi Muftau Adesina , Ajayi Modupe Olayinka
Published: July 2022

It is a widely held belief that adequate and appropriate technology infrastructure may determine the rate at which Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in Nigeria leverage e-commerce for financial sustainability. This study investigated the effect of e-commerce models on financial sustainability of DMBs in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. The study adopted the survey research design. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 200 respondents to whom the questionnaires were administered. The primary data obtained were subjected to both validity and reliability tests. Financial sustainability (proxied by net income growth) was used as the dependent variable, while accessibility, availability and usability of e-commerce models were the independent variables. Using the mean score, the study found that consumer-to-consumer, business-to-consumer, and business-to-business e-commerce models were all rated high in terms of accessibility, availability and usability. A multiple linear regression analysis showed that e-commerce models’ accessibility (β =0.161, p = 0.176); availability (β =0.139,  p =  0.141); and usability (β = -0.017,  p=0.874) did not individually exert a significant effect on financial sustainability. However, accessibility, availability and usability of e-commerce models jointly exerted a significant positive effect [F (3, 130) =5.226; p= .002] on financial sustainability of DMBs at 1% level in the study area. The study concluded that e-commerce models matter towards financial sustainability of DMBs. Finally, the study recommended that the accessibility, availability, and usability of e-commerce models should be continually strengthened in order to enhance their joint effect on financial sustainability of DMBs. Furthermore, the management of DMBs should focus on other critical success factors for achieving financial sustainability of DMBs in the study area.
Cultivation and the dual process of dangerous and competitive worldviews – A theoretical synthesis
Authors: Abdallah Saamah , Jöckel Sven
Published: July 2022

Cultivation research suggests that media use, particularly TV, is associated with a wide range of politically relevant views and attitudes, including perceptions of the world as a mean and dangerous place, authoritarianism, and perceived meritocracy. However, little attempt has been made to understand how these effects relate to one another and to broader models of political psychology. We present a new Cultivation–Political Psychology Interface Model, which uses Duckitt’s Dual Process Model (2001) of political psychology as a lens to understand cultivation research. Many seemingly distinct cultivation effects related to political attitudes can thus be reduced to two overall dimensions: dangerous and competitive worldviews. We identify evidence gaps, particularly in terms of competitive-worldview effects and related political attitudes. Our model generates a landscape of attitudes and beliefs, whereby some attitudes are hypothesized to be more upstream than others, leading to testable hypotheses for future research.
On the complexity of implementation of a system of two monomials by composition circuits
Authors: Korneev Sergey A.
Published: July 2022

The complexity of implementation of systems of monomials by composition circuits is studied. In such a model, the complexity is understood as the smallest number of composition operations required for computation of a system of monomials. The main result is an exact formula which, for an arbitrary pair of monomials, gives the complexity of their joint implementation by composition circuits.
Size distribution of the largest component of a random A-mapping
Authors: Yakymiv Arsen L.
Published: July 2022

Let

S

n

$ \mathfrak S_n $

be a semigroup of all mappings from the n-element set X into itself. We consider a set

S

n

(
A
)

$ \mathfrak S_n(A) $

of mappings from

S

n

$ \mathfrak S_n $

such that their contour sizes belong to the set A ⊆ N. These mappings are called A-mappings. Let a random mapping τ

n
have a distribution on

S

n

(
A
)

$ \mathfrak S_n(A) $

such that each connected component with volume i ∈ N have weight ϑ

i
⩾0. Let D be a subset of N. It is assumed that ϑ

i
 → ϑ>0 for i ∈ D and ϑ

i
 → 0 for i ∈ N∖ D as i → ∞. Let μ(n) be the maximal volume of components of the random mapping τ

n
. We suppose that sets A and D have asymptotic densities ϱ>0 and ρ>0 in N respectively. It is shown that the random variables μ(n)/n converge weakly to random variable ν as n → ∞. The distribution of ν coincides with the limit distribution of the corresponding characteristic in the Ewens sampling formula for random permutation with the parameter ρ
ϱ
ϑ/2.
Diagnostic tests under shifts with fixed filling tuple
Authors: Antiufeev Grigorii V.
Published: July 2022

We consider a fault source under which the fault functions are obtained from the original function f(x̃

n
) ∈

$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
P_2^n
\end{array}$

by a left shift of values of the Boolean variables by at most n. For the vacant positions of the variables, the values are selected from a given filling tuple γ̃ = (γ
1, γ
2, …, γn
) ∈

$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
E^n_2
\end{array}$

, which also moves to the left by the number of positions corresponding to a specific fault function. The problem of diagnostic of faults of this kind is considered. We show that the Shannon function

$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
L_{\tilde{\gamma}}^{\rm shifts, diagn}(n),
\end{array}$

which is equal to the smallest necessary test length for diagnostic of any n-place Boolean function with respect to a described fault source, satisfies the inequality

$\begin{array}{}
\displaystyle
\left\lceil \frac{n}{2} \right\rceil \leq L_{\tilde{\gamma}}^{\rm shifts, diagn}(n) \leq n.
\end{array}$
On the average-case complexity of Boolean functions under binomial distribution on their domains
Authors: Chashkin Aleksandr V.
Published: July 2022

Given a binomial probability distribution on the n-dimensional Boolean cube, the complexity of implementation of Boolean functions by straight line programs with conditional stop is considered. The order, as n → ∞, of the average-case complexity of almost all n-place Boolean functions is established.
Self-estimation of phenylketonuria patients on therapeutic diet. Psychological support
Authors: Iakovou Kostas Konstantinos , Schulpis Kleopatra
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Self-esteem is the degree to which the qualities and characteristics contained in one’s self-concept are perceived to be positive. The aim of this study was to evaluate the self-esteem scores in phenylketonuria (PKU) patients on “strict”, “loos” and “off diet”. Sixty PKU patients were divided in three equal groups.

Methods

Group a: “on strict”, group b: “on loos” and group c: “off diet”. A special questionnaire for self-esteem scores was created for these patients.

Results

Before psychological support, group a patients demonstrated 6/20 (30%) very high self-esteem, 9/20 (45%) high and 5/25 (25%) moderate. After support 14/20 (70%) were turned to very high, 5/20 (25%) represented high except one whose degrees remained an altered. group b 4/20 (20%) were very high, 7/20 (35%) were high, 3/20 (15%) moderate and the rest of them showed low self-esteem degrees, after support, 10/20 (50%) showed very high, 5/20 (25%) became high, 3/20 (15%) turned to moderate and 2/20 (10%) remained unaltered. Group c, 1/20 (5%) were very high self-esteemed, 7/20 (35%) were high, 6/20 (30%) were moderate and 6/20 (30%) with low self-esteemed, at the end of support, 6/20 (30%) become very high, 8/20 (40%) with high, 4/20 (20.0%), moderate self-esteem whereas the rest were unaltered.

Conclusions

Very high and high self-esteem degrees were demonstrated in patients who follow their PKU diet. Moderate and low self-esteem degrees were predominantly found in patients on loos and or off diet. Psychological supports commonly result in amelioration of self-esteem degrees.
Evaluation of the suitability of 19 pharmacogenomics biomarkers for individualized metformin therapy for type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Xhakaza Lettilia , Abrahams-October Zainonesa , Pearce Brendon , Masilela Charity Mandisa , Adeniyi Oladele Vincent , Johnson Rabia , Ongole Joven Jebio , Benjeddou Mongi
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Type 2 Diabetes mellitus is a progressive metabolic disease characterized by relative insulin insufficiency and insulin resistance resulting in hyperglycemia. Despite the widespread use of metformin, there is considerable variation in treatment response; with approximately one-third of patients failing to achieve adequate glycemic control. Studies have reported the involvement of single nucleotide polymorphisms and their interactions in genetic pathways i.e., pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. This study aims to investigate the association between 19 pharmacogenetics biomarkers and response to metformin treatment.

Methods

MassARRAY panels were designed and optimized by Inqaba Biotechnical Industries, to genotype 19 biomarkers for 140 type 2 diabetic outpatients.

Results

The CT genotype of the rs12752688 polymorphism was significantly associated with increased response to metformin therapy after correction (OR=0.33, 95% CI [0.16–0.68], p-value=0.006). An association was also found between the GA genotype ofSLC47A2rs12943590 and a decreased response to metformin therapy after correction (OR=2.29, 95% CI [1.01–5.21], p-value=0.01).

Conclusions

This is the first study investigating the association between genetic variants and responsiveness to medication for diabetic patients from the indigenous Nguni population in South Africa. It is suggested that rs12752688 and rs12943590 be included in pharmacogenomics profiling systems to individualize metformin therapy for diabetic patients from African populations.
Genotype-driven pharmacokinetic simulations of warfarin levels in Puerto Ricans
Authors: Reyes-González Stephanie , de las Barreras Camila , Reynaldo Gledys , Rodríguez-Vera Leyanis , Vlaar Cornelis , Mejias Vilmali Lopez , Monbaliu Jean-Christophe M. , Stelzer Torsten , Mangas Victor , Duconge Jorge
Published: July 2022

Objectives

The inter-individual variability of warfarin dosing has been linked to genetic polymorphisms. This study was aimed at performing genotype-driven pharmacokinetic (PK) simulations to predict warfarin levels in Puerto Ricans.

Methods

Analysis of each individual dataset was performed by one-compartmental modeling using WinNonlin®v6.4. The k

e
of warfarin given a cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) genotype ranged from 0.0189 to 0.0075 h−1. K

a
and V

d
parameters were taken from literature. Data from 128 subjects were divided into two groups (i.e., wild-types and carriers) and statistical analyses of PK parameters were performed by unpaired t-tests.

Results

In the carrier group (n=64), 53 subjects were single-carriers and 11 double-carriers (i.e., *2/*2, *2/*3, *2/*5, *3/*5, and *3/*8). The mean peak concentration (Cmax) was higher for wild-type (0.36±0.12 vs. 0.32±0.14 mg/L). Likewise, the average clearance (CL) parameter was faster among non-carriers (0.22±0.03 vs. 0.17±0.05 L/h; p=0.0001), with also lower area under the curve (AUC) when compared to carriers (20.43±6.97 vs. 24.78±11.26 h mg/L; p=0.025). Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between groups with regard to AUC and CL, but not for Cmax. This can be explained by the variation of k

e
across different genotypes.

Conclusions

The results provided useful information for warfarin dosing predictions that take into consideration important individual PK and genotyping data.
Understanding COVID-19 in the light of epidemic disease described in Unani medicine
Authors: Alam Md Anzar , Quamri Mohd Aleemuddin , Sofi Ghulamuddin , Ayman Umme , Ansari Shabnam , Ahad Mariyam
Published: July 2022

Unani system of medicine is based on the humoral theory postulated by Hippocrates, according to him the state of body health and disease are regulated by qualitative and quantitative equilibrium of four humours. Amraz-e-Waba is an umbrella term which is used in Unani medicine for all types of epidemics (smallpox, measles, plague, Hameer Saifi, influenza, Nipaha, Ebola, Zika, and 2019 novel coronavirus, etc.) mostly fatal in nature. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe acute respiratory infection, and the pathogenesis and clinical features resemble with those of Nazla-e-Wabaiya (influenza) and Zatul Riya (pneumonia) which were well described many years ago in Unani text such as high-grade fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, running nose, dry cough, respiratory distress, alternate and small pulse, asthenia, foul smell from breath, insomnia, frothy stool, syncope, coldness in both upper and lower extremities, etc. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a global emergency pandemic. Unani scholars like Hippocrates (370–460 BC), Galen (130–200 AD), Rhazes (865–925 AD), and Avicenna (980–1037 AD) had described four etiological factors for Amraz-e-Waba viz., change in quality of air, water, Earth, and celestial bodies, accordingly mentioned various preventive measures to be adopted during epidemics such as restriction of movement, isolation or “quarantena”, and fumigation with loban (Styrax benzoin W. G. Craib ex Hartwich.), sandalwood (Santalum album L.), Zafran (Crocus sativus L.), myrtle (Myrtus communis L.), and roses (Rosa damascena Mill.) and use of vinegar (sirka) and antidotes (Tiryaq) as prophylaxis, and avoiding consumption of milk, oil, sweet, meat, and alcohol. This review focuses and elaborates on the concept, prevention, and probable management of COVID-19 in the light of Amraz-e-Waba.
Involvement of GABAergic and nitrergic systems in the anxiolytic and hypnotic effects of Curcuma longa: its interaction with anxiolytic-hypnotics
Authors: Ishola Ismail O. , Katola Folashade O. , Adeyemi Olufunmilayo O.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Concurrent use of herbs with drugs have become a major healthcare problem. Herb-drug interactions could lead to therapeutic failure or toxicity. Hence, this study seeks to evaluate the impact of combining Curcuma longa rhizome (CL) with selected anxiolytic and hypnotic drugs.

Methods

CL (100, 200 or 400 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered to mice 1 h before subjecting the animals to elevated plus maze (EPM), hole board test (HBT), open field test (OFT) and rotarod test for anxiolytic-like effect as well as hexobarbitone-induced sleeping time (HIST) for hypnotic activity. The involvement of GABAergic and nitrergic systems in CL-induced anxiolytic and hypnotic actions were also evaluated. The effect of concurrent use of CL with midazolam, imipramine, nifedipine, propranolol and carbamazepine were evaluated in anxiolytic-hypnosis models.

Results

The peak anxiolytic-like effect of CL was obtained at 400 mg/kg in the EPM and hole-board test without affecting muscle coordination in the rotarod test while the peak hypnosis-potentiation was observed at 100 mg/kg. CL-induced anxiolytic-hypnotic-like effects were reversed by the pretreatment of mice with flumazenil or NG-nitro-l-arginine.

Conclusions

Curcuma longa possesses anxiolytic and hypnotic effects through its interaction with GABAergic and nitrergic systems. Conversely, co-administration of C. longa with midazolam potentiate barbiturate-induced hypnosis.
Pharmacogenetic algorithm for predicting daily dose of warfarin in Caucasian patients of Czech origin
Authors: Tomek Aleš , Šrámková Tereza , Kaplan Vojtěch , Lacinová Zuzana , Kumstýřová Simona , Šrámek Martin , Olšerová Anna , Janský Petr , Kolářová Tereza , Neumann Jiří , Schwabová Jaroslava Paulasová , Maťoška Václav
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Warfarin use is limited by a low therapeutic index and significant interindividual variability of the daily dose. The most important factor predicting daily warfarin dose is individual genotype, polymorphisms of genes CYP2C9 (warfarin metabolism) and VKORC1 (sensitivity for warfarin). Algorithms using clinical and genetic variables could predict the daily dose before the initiation of therapy. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an algorithm for the prediction of warfarin daily dose in Czech patients.

Methods

Detailed clinical data of patients with known and stable warfarin daily dose were collected. All patients were genotyped for polymorphisms in genes CYP2C9 and VKORC1.

Results

Included patients were divided into derivation (n=175) and validation (n=223) cohorts. The final algorithm includes the following variables: Age, height, weight, treatment with amiodarone and presence of variant alleles of genes CYP2C9 and VKORC1. The adjusted coefficient of determination is 72.4% in the derivation and 62.3% in the validation cohort (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Our validated algorithm for warfarin daily dose prediction in our Czech cohort had higher precision than other currently published algorithms. Pharmacogenetics of warfarin has the potential in the clinical practice in specialized centers.
Drugs intervention study in COVID-19 management
Authors: Taher Muhammad , Tik Noratika , Susanti Deny
Published: July 2022

By 9 February 2021, the Coronavirus has killed 2,336,650 people worldwide and it has been predicted that this number continues to increase in year 2021. The study aimed to identify therapeutic approaches and drugs that can potentially be used as interventions in Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) management. A systematic scoping review was conducted. Articles reporting clinical evidence of therapeutic management of COVID-19 were selected from three different research databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct). From the database search, 31 articles were selected based on the study inclusion and exclusion criteria. This review paper showed that remdesivir and ivermectin significantly reduced viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) activity. On the other hand, convalescent plasma (CP) significantly improved COVID-19 clinical symptoms. Additionally, the use of corticosteroid increased survival rates in COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Findings also indicated that both hydroxychloroquine and favipiravir were effective against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, lopinavir–ritonavir combination was not effective against COVID-19. Finally, ribavirin, galidesivir, and sofosbuvir showed potential therapeutic benefit in treating COVID-19, but there is a lack of clinical evidence on their effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2. Remdesivir, ivermectin, favipiravir, hydroxychloroquine, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and CP are the therapeutic agents that can potentially be used in COVID-19 management.
Effect of phenyltrimethoxysilane coupling agent (A153) on simultaneously improving mechanical, electrical, and processing properties of ultra-high-filled polypropylene composites
Authors: Li Jianxi , Zhang Shuya , Fan Yaqin , Wang Aosong , Miao Zhuang , Cheng Peng , Liu Hanzhou
Published: July 2022

The improvement of mechanical properties, electrical properties, and processing properties of ultra-high-filled thermal insulation polypropylene (PP) composites has been plagued by high filling amount of heat-conducting fillers such as alumina powder (Al2O3) and expanded graphite. In order to improve its properties, this article uses a high-temperature-resistant coupling agent (A153) to modify the PP composite. The results of this study show that when the content of A153 reaches 7.5 phr, the tensile strength of PP composite can reach 5 MPa, the elongation at break can reach 25%, and the volume resistivity can reach 12.8 × 1012 Ω·m, and the maximum thermal conductivity is 1.82 W·m−1·K−1. The processability also shows that the introduction of A153 can increase the melt flow rate and effectively improve the processability of the material.
Performance investigation of DPMZM based RoF system by employing PIN and APD photodetector
Authors: Gupta Aayushi , Kumar Parvin , Kumar Sachan Vibhav , Sharma Abhishek
Published: July 2022

As per the increasing demand of users, the wireless network fulfils significant challenges in terms of capacity, data rate, reduced environmental impact and better receiver performance. Radio over fiber (RoF) is the technique by which radio signal is modulated over the optical fiber link. The functioning of RoF is dependent on the optical modulator, optical fiber and photodetector. In this paper, dual parallel Mach–Zehnder modulator (DPMZM) is used, which gives good results against intermodulation distortion (IMD) errors. In order to investigate the receiver performance, positive-intrinsic-negative (PIN) and avalanche photodiode (APD) photodetectors are utilized at the receiver end. The analytical analysis of DPMZM based RoF system is analyzed, and the simulation model is implemented using OptSIM software, including PIN and APD photodetectors. The performance is scrutinized against various optical fiber lengths. The performance of the proposed model is analyzed and investigated by the presence of desired components and distorted (IMD) components for 1 and 5 km optical fiber distance between the control station and base station.
Seismological monitoring of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty
Authors: Barrientos S. , Haslinger F. , Section the IMS Seismic
Published: July 2022

Seismological monitoring is one of the four technologies used by the International Monitoring System to verify compliance with the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. When fully operational, two seismic networks, one primary (50 stations) and one auxiliary (120 stations), will enable global detection and event characterisation of sources with equivalent magnitude as low as 4. The basic principles of seismological theory and practice applied to verification are summarised below, with particular emphasis on the new requirements imposed by the needs of the Treaty.
Hydroacoustic monitoring system for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty
Authors: Lawrence M. , Galindo M. , Grenard P. , Newton J.
Published: July 2022

Hydroacoustics is one of the four monitoring technologies of the International Monitoring System (IMS') established under the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The hydroacoustic network, designed to monitor the major world oceans, contains eleven stations located with an emphasis on the vast ocean areas of the Southern Hemisphere. Two different sensing techniques are employed; hydrophone sensors, which effectively cover large ocean areas, but are quite complex and expensive, and seismic detectors on small islands which are less effective, but considerably simpler and cheaper. The hydroacoustic stations transmit data in real time via satellite to the International Data Centre (IDC). The IDC analyses the hydroacoustic data in combination with the other three technologies to produce bulletins of detected events for the States Party to the Treaty.
Does the use of 3D-printed cones give a chance to postpone the use of megaprostheses in patients with large bone defects in the knee joint?
Authors: Kotrych Daniel , Marcinkowski Sławomir , Brodecki Adam , Anuszkiewicz Marcin , Kleszowski Jakub , Bohatyrewicz Andrzej , Ciechanowicz Dawid
Published: July 2022

Revision procedures and the resulting bone loss are a big challenge for orthopedic surgeons. Therefore, we checked what functional outcomes that 3D-printed cone augments can offer to patients with bone defects (Anderson Orthopedic Research Institute [AORI] classification type 2B and 3) in the knee and whether the use of cones can delay the necessity to use a megaprotheses. Data from 64 patients (M = 22; W = 42) who underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) revision were included in the analysis. The Knee Society Clinical Rating System (KSS) and the range of motion in the knee joint were used for the functional assessment. The mean follow-up was 28 months (range: 18–44 months). The survival rate for aseptic loosening at follow-up was 100%. Infection occurred in two (3.1%) patients. The mean KSS score increased from 12.75 points preoperatively to 66.56 postoperatively (p < 0.001). The mean range of motion in the knee changed from 61.15° preoperatively to 115.93° postoperatively (p < 0.001). 3D-printed cone augments seem to be a good solution for patients requiring a TKA revision procedure. When used in patients with bone defects classified as 2B and 3 (AORI), they can be a good alternative, delaying the need for megaprotheses.
On a general system of difference equations defined by homogeneous functions
Authors: Touafek Nouressadat
Published: July 2022

The aim of this paper is to study the following second order system of difference equations

$$\begin{array}{} x_{n+1} = f(y_{n},y_{n-1}),\quad y_{n+1} = g(x_{n},x_{n-1}) \end{array}$$

wheren∈ ℕ0, the initial valuesx−1,x0,y−1andy0are positive real numbers, the functionsf,g: (0, +∞)2→ (0, +∞) are continuous and homogeneous of degree zero. In this study, we establish results on local stability of the unique equilibrium point and to deal with the global attractivity, and so the global stability, some general convergence theorems are provided. Necessary and sufficient conditions on existence of prime period two solutions of our system are given. Also, a result on oscillatory solutions is proved. As applications of the obtained results, concrete models of systems of difference equations defined by homogeneous functions of degree zero are investigated. Our system generalize some existing works in the literature and our results can be applied to study new models of systems of difference equations. For interested readers, we left in the conclusion as open problems two more general systems of higher order defined by homogenous functions of degree zero.
Prediction of the exponential fractional upper record-values
Authors: Aly Amany E.
Published: July 2022

In this paper, two linear predictors of the fractional kth upper record-value based on two-parameter exponential distribution are proposed. Moreover, a free scale-location predictive interval is constructed for the future fractional kth upper record-value. The prediction results are formulated in a general set-up relying on two fractional kth upper record-values. Some important distributional properties for each point predictor are revealed. Furthermore, the mean square error and Pitman’s measure of closeness are used to compare the point predictors. Finally, a simulation study is carried out and a real data set is analyzed to explore the efficiency of the suggested methods.
Code-switching as linguistic microaggression: L2-Japanese and speaker legitimacy
Authors: Takeuchi Jae DiBello
Published: July 2022

At a press conference in Japan, an L2-Japanese reporter questioned an L1-Japanese politician. Although the press conference was conducted in Japanese, the politician code-switched to English during their exchange. The reporter challenged the politician’s code-switching; a confrontational exchange ensued. The reporter’s reaction depicts the code-switching as linguistic microaggression. Linguistic microaggressions are verbal comments focused on language use itself which intentionally or unintentionally discriminate. I analyze two data sets: the press conference data and an interview with the reporter, and a survey conducted with over 300 L2-Japanese speakers in Japan. Microanalysis of the press conference reveals linguistic microaggression and a struggle for speaker legitimacy. Qualitative thematic analysis of survey data examines L2-Japanese speakers’ reactions to unwanted code-switching. Together, analysis of these data sets shows how 1) linguistic microaggression can be resisted while asserting one’s own speaker legitimacy, and 2) L2-Japanese speakers can react strongly to unwanted code-switching. Few studies examine unwanted code-switching. I argue that the code-switching examined here was linguistic microaggression and was perceived as a threat to L2 speaker legitimacy. Findings contribute to research that critically examines L2 speakers’ struggles in Japan and have implications for understanding L2 speaker legitimacy.
Polymer modulators in silicon photonics: review and projections
Authors: Taghavi Iman , Moridsadat Maryam , Tofini Alexander , Raza Shaheer , Jaeger Nicolas A. F. , Chrostowski Lukas , Shastri Bhavin J. , Shekhar Sudip
Published: July 2022

Optical modulators are vital for many applications, including telecommunication, data communication, optical computing, and microwave photonic links. A compact modulator with low voltage drive requirement, low power, high speed, and compatibility with CMOS foundry process is highly desirable. Current modulator technologies in Si suffer from trade-offs that constrain their power, performance (speed, drive voltage), and area. The introduction of additional materials to the silicon platform for efficient phase shift promises alternatives to relax those trade-offs. Si-organic-hybrid (SOH) devices demonstrate large modulation bandwidth leveraging the electro-optic (EO) effect and smaller drive voltage or footprint owing to a strong EO coefficient. In this study, we review various SOH modulators and describe their path towards integration to silicon, including their challenges associated with aging and temperature. We also briefly discuss other high-performance modulators such as plasmonic-organic-hybrid (POH), photonic-crystal-assisted SOH, and LiNbO3.
Relationships Between Physical Fitness Assessment Measures and a Workplace Task-Specific Physical Assessment Among Police Officers: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lockie Robert , Dawes J. Jay , Sakura Takato , Schram Benjamin , Orr Robin M.
Published: July 2022

Lockie, R, Dawes, JJ, Sakura, T, Schram, B, and Orr, RM. Relationships between physical fitness assessment measures and a workplace task-specific physical assessment among police officers: a retrospective cohort study. J Strength Cond Res 37(3): 678–683, 2023—Police officers are required to perform physically demanding occupational tasks and, as such, require an adequate level of fitness. The aim of this study was to investigate relationships between a physical fitness assessment test (PAT) and a task-specific physical competency test (PCT). Retrospective data for 307 police trainees who completed the PAT and the PCT were provided. The PAT comprised a 2.4-km run, vertical jump, push-ups, and grip strength measures. The PCT, a single timed event, consisted of 10 occupational specific tasks (e.g., trailer push, wall climb, window climb through), which were completed within a 400-m obstacle course. Pearson's correlations were used to investigate relationships between the PAT and the PCT. Linear regression analyses were conducted to determine whether PAT predicted PCT performance. All PAT measures significantly correlated with PCT performance with the strength of the correlations ranging from moderate (vertical jump; r = −0.420, p < 0.01) to strong (2.4 km run; r = 0.639, p < 0.01). The highest predictive relationship was observed with 2.4-km run (r

2
= 0.409), and the lowest predictive relationship was observed with the vertical jump (r

2
= 0.177). The results of this study highlight the importance of aerobic capacity (2.4 km run), muscular endurance (push-ups), strength (grip strength), and power (vertical jump) for successful performance during the PCT. These physical attributes should be developed in new police trainees before attending recruit training if viable and form part of any return-to-work reconditioning frameworks for both police trainees and officers.
Dietary Intakes and the Risk of Low Energy Availability in Male and Female Advanced and Elite Rock Climbers
Authors: Monedero Javier , Duff Christina , Egan Brendan
Published: July 2022

Monedero, J, Duff, C, and Egan, B. Dietary intakes and the risk of low energy availability in male and female advanced and elite rock climbers. J Strength Cond Res 37(3): e8–e15, 2023—There is a culture among rock climbers of striving to maintain low body mass and percentage body fat to enhance performance. Diet practices based on this belief might lead to increased risk of low energy availability (LEA) or eating disorders (EDs). Twenty-five advanced or elite rock climbers (male, n = 14; female, n = 11) had body composition measured, completed 4-day food intake and physical activity diaries while wearing an accelerometer and heart rate monitor, and completed the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT)-26 and the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q; n = 11 female subjects only). EAT-26 scores of 3.5 (1.8, 7.0) [median (IQR)] and 9.3 ± 6.4 (mean ± SD) for male and female subjects, respectively, indicated low risk of ED in this cohort, but 4 female subjects were at high risk of LEA according to LEAF-Q scores. Suboptimal (<45 kcal·kg·FFM−1·d−1) and LEA (<30 kcal·kg·FFM−1·d−1) were evident in 88 and 28%, respectively, of climbers. However, only the female climbers had energy intakes (1775 ± 351 kcal·d−1) significantly lower than their calculated energy requirements (2056 ± 254 kcal·d−1; p = 0.006). In all subjects, carbohydrate intakes were lower (male subjects: 3.8 ± 1.2 g·kg−1·d−1, p = 0.002; female subjects: 3.4 ± 0.7 g·kg−1·d−1, p < 0.001), and fat intakes were higher (male subjects: 1.6 ± 0.5 g·kg−1·d−1, p < 0.001; female subjects: 1.4 ± 0.4 g·kg−1·day−1, p < 0.001) than current sports nutrition recommendations, and inadequate intakes of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D were observed. Female subjects specifically had lower than recommended intakes of protein and iron. These results show that advanced and elite rock climbers have a high prevalence of LEA and have a risk of having nutritional deficiencies as result of their diet.
Preliminary Investigation of Magnesium-Silver Nanocomposite for Feasibility as Degradable Biomaterial
Authors: Vignesh R. , Velusamy Raja
Published: July 2022

Pure magnesium is a well-studied metallic material for biodegradable implants, but its rapid degradation rate is a major disadvantage. Silver is known for its excellent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but its hemolytic and cytotoxic properties are a major concern. In the presented study, to control the fast degradation rate of magnesium, silver nanoparticles (NPs) were mixed with magnesium in varying proportions. Magnesium-silver composites have been prepared using powder metallurgy techniques with three different proportions of silver Viz. 0.75 %, 1 %, and 1.25 % silver. For the suitability of a composite as an implant material, corrosion rate, hemolysis, and antibacterial activity were investigated with pure magnesium as the control. Pure magnesium shows a corrosion rate of around 5 mm/year, while magnesium-silver composites show around 1.2 mm/year. Zone of inhibition and hemolysis values are higher for magnesium-1.25 % silver when compared with other specimens. Magnesium-0.75 % silver has hemolysis and antibacterial activity similar to pure magnesium, with a lower value of corrosion rate. Silver NPs on their own are hemolytic and cytotoxic, but Magnesium-silver nanocomposites with a silver wt % lower than 1.25 % can be further explored as a suitable biomaterial with reduced corrosion rate and better biocompatibility.
Design and Development of Novel Computer Vision-Based Automatic Calibration System for Analog Dial Pressure Gauge
Authors: Prasad S. J. Suji , Indra J. , Thangatamilan M. , Meena Radhey Shyam , Muthusamy Suresh , Panchal Hitesh , Krishnamoorthy Mahendran , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Doshi Manish
Published: July 2022

Pressure gauge calibration refers to comparing the standard and test gauge to determine the error percentage. The reading accuracy of the analog dial pressure gauge is found in the conventional method through manual calculations and then tabulating the values in the calibration certificate. The present study is undertaken to increase the accuracy level of the analog dial pressure gauges. A new automated computer-based method is proposed to calibrate the meters more accurately than the conventional method. The indicated value of the pressure gauge is obtained through the angular position of the pointer and the error value is identified by comparing both standard and test gauge values. In this work, Red, Green, Blue (RGB) images of standard and test pressure gauges are acquired through a high-definition camera. After the image processing operations, the pointer orientation of the indicatoris identified, and the indicated values are calculated. The computer-vision-based automatic calibration system is applied in a 0–100-psi (0–689.476 kPa) analog dial pressure gauge, and three trials were performed to determine the accuracy. The computer vision technique improved accuracy, varying from 97 % to 98 % compared with the conventional manual observation method. The observed results have improved repeatability and accuracy with the proposed computer-vision-based system.
Deep Neural Network for Click-Through Rate Prediction
Authors:   Faculty of Information Technology, University of Nusa Mandiri, Jakarta, Indonesia, RIANA DWIZA ,   Faculty of Information Technology, University of Nusa Mandiri, Jakarta, Indonesia
Published: July 2022

Predicted click-through rate is one of the most frequently used criteria to determine the effectiveness of an ads. In advertising production, click-through predictions are very influential for the company that places the ads. Click-through rates need to be predicted accurately because accurate prediction results determine whether the click-through rate is exactly clicked or not by the viewing consumer. Predicted click-through can be done on advertising and social network datasets. The use of these two datasets is intended to make the comparison results more convincing from the proposed method. The purpose of this study is to compare two advertising and social network datasets, by proposing the application of the Deep Neural Network (DNN) model by testing hyperparameter variations to find a better architecture in predicting whether or not users click on an advertisement. The hyperparameter variations include 3 variations of the hidden layer, 2 variations of the activation function, namely ReLuand Sigmoid, 3 variations of the optimization (RMSprop, Adam, and Adagrad),and 3 variations of the learning rate (0.1, 0.01, and 0.001). The results of experiments conducted with the advertising parameter dataset with hidden layer of 3, learning rate of 0.01,and Adam optimization with an accuracy value of 99.90%, AUC of 99.90% and Precision-Recallof99.89% while the data for social network ads parameters with hidden layer of 5, learning rate of 0.1 and Adam optimization with accuracy of 92.25%, AUC of 92.72%,andPrecision-Recallof 89.70%.
Injury-Related Pediatric Emergency Department Visits in the First Year of COVID-19
Authors: Wells Jordee M. , Rodean Jonathan , Cook Lawrence , Sills Marion R. , Neuman Mark I. , Kornblith Aaron E. , Jain Shobhit , Hirsch Alexander W. , Goyal Monika K. , Fleegler Eric W. , DeLaroche Amy M. , Aronson Paul L. , Leonard Julie C.
Published: July 2022

OBJECTIVES

To describe the epidemiology of pediatric injury-related visits to children’s hospital emergency departments (EDs) in the United States during early and later periods of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study using the Pediatric Health Information System, an administrative database to identify injury-related ED visits at 41 United States children’s hospitals during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic period (March 15, 2020 to March 14, 2021) and a 3 year comparator period (March 15–March 14, 2017–2020). For these 2 periods, we compared patient characteristics, injury type and severity, primary discharge diagnoses, and disposition, stratified by early (March 15, 2020 to June 30, 2020), middle (July 1, 2020 to October 31, 2020), and late (November 1, 2020 to March 14, 2021) pandemic periods.

RESULTS

Overall, ED injury-related visits decreased by 26.6% during the first year of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with the largest decline observed in minor injuries. ED injury-related visits resulting in serious–critical injuries increased across the pandemic (15.9% early, 4.9% middle, 20.6% late). Injury patterns with the sharpest relative declines included superficial injuries (41.7% early) and sprains/strains (62.4% early). Mechanisms of injury with the greatest relative increases included (1) firearms (22.9% early; 42.8% middle; 37% late), (2) pedal cyclists (60.4%; 24.9%; 32.2%), (3) other transportation (20.8%; 25.3%; 17.9%), and (4) suffocation/asphyxiation (21.4%; 20.2%; 28.4%) and injuries because of suicide intent (−16.2%, 19.9%, 21.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric injury-related ED visits declined in general. However, there was a relative increase in injuries with the highest severity, which warrants further investigation.
Disposition Decisions in Cases of Medical Complexity and Health Inequity
Authors: Shapiro Joseph P. , Anspacher Melanie , Madrigal Vanessa , Lantos John D.
Published: July 2022

The question of optimal disposition for children with complex medical and social circumstances has long challenged the well-intentioned clinician. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic created unique difficulties for patients, families, and health care providers, in addition to highlighting long-standing racial and socioeconomic inequities in health care. In pediatric hospitals, necessary public health measures such as visitor restrictions shifted many shared decision-making processes such as discharge planning from complicated to impossible. Here, we present the case of a medically complex adult (with a long-standing pediatric condition) whose surrogate decision-maker objected to discharge to a long-term care facility because of restrictions and risks associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We offer the commentary of experts in clinical ethics, intensive care, inpatient subacute care, and palliative care. Our discussion includes analysis of the ethical considerations involved in the case, concrete guidance on steps toward an ethically permissible discharge, and suggestions for how a health equity lens can improve communication and decision-making for families who are victims of systemic racism and economic discrimination.
DIE STEEL 4Х4Н5М4Ф2 FOR HOT DEFORMATION OF COPPER
Authors: Sydorchuk О.
Published: July 2022

Purpose. Obtaining forged die steel (4Х4Н5М4Ф2) with adjustable austenitic transformation during operation, electroslag remelting and installation of optimal modes of heat-deformation treatment (annealing, forging, hardening and tempering). Manufacture of large parts such as wheels of extruders from forged steel brand 4Х4Н5М4Ф2with experimental and industrial tests for hot deformation of copper at operating temperatures below the critical point A1.

Methods of research. Metallographic analysis of experimental die steels 4Х4Н5М4Ф2 and Н13 (analog 4Х4Н5М4Ф2).

Results. Experimental-industrial tests of 4Х4Н5М4Ф2 forged steel extruder wheels for hot deformation of M1 copper have shown increased stability compared to H13 steel used at one of the Chinese enterprises.

Scientific novelty. In the process of partial recrystallization of alloyed structural forged steel 4Х4Н5М4Ф2 a spheroidized carbide component is formed, which leads to improved machining of the workpiece for the manufacture of parts such as extruder wheels.

Practical value. The possibility of using steel (4Х4Н5М4Ф2) with adjustable austenitic transformation in operation for a wide range of operating temperatures (below the critical point A1 and above the critical point A3) for hot deformation of copper (up to 630 °C), copper-nickel (900–950 °C) and aluminum alloy (450–500 °C) with increased service life was shown. To facilitate machining by cutting the workpiece in the manufacture of dies from steel 4Х4Н5М4Ф2, it was proposed to conduct a partial recrystallization, namely incomplete annealing at a temperature of 750±20 °C. The studied forged steel 4Х4Н5М4Ф2 is characterized with increased in hardness and strength limit compared to H13 steel, after operation of the wheels of extruders (manufacture of more than 60 tons of copper products).
Improving the Accuracy of IP Geolocation Based on Public IP Geoservices Data
Authors: Ivanov Maxim , Polunin Alexander
Published: July 2022

IP geolocation is the process of determining the real geographic location of an electronic device connected to the Internet, by its global network address [1]. Currently, it has found wide application in Internet commerce, marketing and advertising, information security [2], and other areas of human activity. There are different methods for determining the location of a remote network device, which differ both in type of analyzed information (delay packet transmission, resource records DNS-servers, the content of Web pages), and the result (country or city name, mail address, probable area of location or exact coordinates) [3, 4]. IP geolocating error depends on the country, population density, type of network device and ranges from several tens of meters to hundreds of kilometers. For the same input data, the results of different IP-geoservices can vary significantly. The object of this study is the public IP-geoservices that provide geolocating services for nodes in the global network based on their IP addresses, and specifically, their accuracy and completeness. The sample of IP-geoservices for testing was formed from the most popular ones [5]. During the study, the results of IP-geolocation were compared with reliable information about the location of some IP addresses, as indicators of accuracy country, city and geographic coordinates were used. Based on the comparative analysis of the test results, conclusions about the accuracy of IP-geolocation services according to the selected indicators, their essential properties, as well as the dependence of geolocation error on the size of the settlement were made. To improve the accuracy of IP georeferencing, the authors proposed an ensemble method for averaging coordinates obtained from several IP geoservices.
A comunicação dos Tribunais de Contas e Ministérios Públicos nas redes sociais: os desafios da accountability na democracia digital
Authors: Viegas Rafael Rodrigues , Abrucio Fernando Luiz , Loureiro Maria Rita Garcia , Teixeira Marco Antonio Carvalho , Borali Natasha
Published: July 2022

Resumo Este artigo trata da comunicação que os Tribunais de Contas (TCs) e os Ministérios Públicos (MPs) brasileiros promovem nas redes sociais Facebook, Twitter e Instagram, desde a abertura de suas contas. Inova na discussão a respeito do controle democrático sobre a administração pública com foco na chamada “democracia digital”, mostrando que os controladores também precisam se preocupar com a transparência e responsabilização nesses espaços. Tendo verificado que os TCs e os MPs mantêm departamentos profissionais de comunicação que operam intensamente nas redes sociais, com destaque para o TC da União (TCU) e o MP Federal (MPF) no Twitter, este trabalho analisa, de forma específica, o conteúdo da comunicação das duas instituições nessa rede, com a ajuda do software Iramuteq. Tanto o TCU como o MPF mantiveram intensa atividade de postagem de conteúdos diversos no Twitter, desde a abertura de suas contas e em momentos importantes da história política recente. A pergunta que orienta o trabalho é: ampliar os canais de comunicação significa necessariamente maior accountability? O que se constatou é que, ao se apresentar mais à sociedade pelos meios digitais, esses órgãos de controle não necessariamente responderam aos requisitos de responsabilização pública presentes na teoria democrática.