• Safety and Health at Work
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• v.2 no.4
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• pp.355-364
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• 2011

Objectives: Though sulfur dioxide (SO2) is used widely at workplaces, itseffects on humans are not known. Thresholds are reportedwithout reference to gender or age and occupational exposure limits are basedon effects on lung functioning, although localized effects in the upper airways can be expected. This study's aim is to determine thresholds with respect to age and gender and suggests a new approach to risk assessment using breathing reflexes presumably triggered by trigeminal receptors in the upper airways. Methods: Odor thresholds were determined by the ascending method of limits in groups stratified by age and gender. Subjects rated intensities of different olfactory and trigeminal perceptions at different concentrations of $SO_2$. During the presentation of the concentrations, breathing movements were measured by respiratory inductive plethysmography. Results: Neither age nor gender effects were observed for odor threshold. Only ratings of nasal irritation were influenced bygender. A benchmark dose analysis on relative respiratory depth revealed a 10%-deviation from baseline at about 25.27 mg/$m^3$. Conclusion: The proposed new approach to risk assessment appearsto be sustainable. We discuss whether a 10%-deviation of breathingdepth is relevant.

• International Journal of Computer Science & Network Security
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• v.21 no.7
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• pp.211-220
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• 2021

The aim of the study is to implement a factor analysis of the determinants of pricing in a state-regulated competitive market using economic and mathematical modelling methods and to develop ways to improve the pricing environment of the market under study. The purpose of the work defines the main objectives: (i) to investigate the features of the competitive model of the Ukrainian flour market; (ii) to analyse the current price conjuncture of the flour market and the dynamics of the main determinants of pricing; (iii)to develop ways of improving the price situation on the flour market on the basis of the factor analysis on the results of economic and mathematical modelling. In order to ensure the reliability and validity of the research results, the following methods were applied: the logical-dialectical method of scientific knowledge in the study of the main theoretical aspects of flour market functioning, the method of logical generalisation and synthesis, comparison, factor analysis, correlation and regression analysis, the graphical method, etc. It has been shown that pricing in a state-regulated competitive market has its own characteristics. For example, in the flour market the price of goods cannot be influenced by producers (sellers) by any methods, therefore determinants of pricing by indirect influence have been taken into account. The five-factor power model of wheat flour price has been constructed. It was substantiated that the price of wheat flour in Ukraine is mostly influenced by consumer price index (0.92 %). The received complex model of wheat flour price may be used also for medium-term forecasting and working out the ways of price formation optimization in the flour market.

• International Journal of Computer Science & Network Security
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• v.21 no.12
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• pp.45-52
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• 2021

The article proves the relevance of developing conceptual frameworks for managing the quality assurance of logistics activities in the context of socio-economic interaction of their participants. It is established that the fundamental difference of the logistic approach in management from traditional approaches is the allocation of a single management function of previously separated, disparate material flows, as well as economic, technological, information integration of chain links into a single system capable of effective management of these flows. It is substantiated that the functioning of the enterprise as a logistics system can be represented in the form of a triad of logistics components, namely: supply logistics, production logistics, sales logistics. Management of quality assurance processes of logistics activities in the context of socio-economic interaction of their participants is a functional component of the entire logistics system due to the quality of work and interaction of all participants in the implementation of certain activities. The quality of logistics activities will affect the level of economic potential, rationalization and optimization of all logistics flows. It is proved that the management of quality assurance processes of logistics activities in the context of socio-economic interaction of their participants involves the following main areas: the introduction of a quality system of logistics processes; development and implementation of the general strategy of quality improvement at the enterprise; internal integration; controlling. Management of quality assurance processes of logistics activities in the context of socio-economic interaction of its participants requires compliance with the following requirements: systematic and comprehensive management of all flow processes; coordination of criteria and indicators for assessing the effectiveness of the entire logistics system; dissemination of the use and application of information technology; ensuring partnerships and close interaction of all participants in sales networks.

• International Journal of Computer Science & Network Security
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• v.22 no.9
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• pp.51-58
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• 2022

The article emphasizes the features of the modern education system in Poland, reveals the peculiarities of improving the professional competence of a specialist in Poland through the implementation of multimedia technologies. Various forms of innovations implemented in improving the professional competence of a specialist are listed: improvement (rationalization), modernization, innovation. The forms of professional improvement through the introduction of computer technologies in general and multimedia technologies, in particular, primarily include various professional courses, qualification, preparatory, methodological conferences, seminars, postgraduate studies, foreign and state internships. At the same time, the main direction is self-education. The subject of professional improvement in the application of computer technologies by specialists is the updating of existing knowledge, exchange of professional experience, planning, as well as discussion of innovative works in which specialists participate. Professional growth of specialists can occur both during work and in higher education institutions during their studies. Modernization of computer technologies, especially multimedia ones, is a necessary condition for the functioning of specialists in modern society, since specialists are at the center of the educational process, during the improvement of professional competence. The main functions of the educational process necessary for improving the professional competence of specialists through the implementation of multimedia technologies are revealed. These functions not only contribute to the professional improvement of specialists, but also affect their solutions and optimize the maintenance of contacts between specialists. The importance of creating conditions that are consistent with the modern needs of innovative education is emphasized.

• PNF and Movement
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• v.20 no.3
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• pp.359-370
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• 2022

Purpose: Physical therapists are required to properly choose the most appropriate treatment for each patient within the framework of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF model). The aims of this study were to determine whether neurological physical therapists in clinical settings in South Korea know about the ICF model and to investigate the current trends of outcome measures (OMs) used by them. Methods: Two hundred and one physical therapists who worked with patients with neurological disorders participated in this study. The survey was conducted via e-mail and asked about commonly used OMs and the considerations for selecting OMs. Results: All physical therapists involved in this study responded completely, and 45.8% of participants learned about the ICF model, while 37.3% understood the detailed information related to the ICF model. The rest of the participants did not know or just heard about the ICF model. The most frequently used tools at the body function/structure level were the Range of Motion (98%), Manual Muscle Test (97%), Berg Balance Scale (83.1%), and Modified Ashworth Scale (70.6%) when allowing repetition. At the activity level, the 10-meter walk test (71.1%), 6-minute walk test (54.2%), and Functional Ambulatory Category (43.3%) were used, while the Activity-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (23.9%) was used at the participation level. There was a positive relationship between the number of tools used and years of work, as well as the level of understanding of the ICF model. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that it is necessary to learn the ICF model in a clinical setting. In addition, the medical system needs to be modified to encourage physical therapists in South Korea to use proper OMs within the ICF model.

• Korean Journal of Clinical Laboratory Science
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• v.55 no.3
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• pp.213-218
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• 2023

When it comes to 'Team Medical Care' in Japan, clinical laboratory technologists have actively engaged in various kinds of teams, such as a diabetes team, a nutrition support team, an infection control team and a medical practice support team. Overall, with continual changes in the medical environment, clinical laboratory technologists are recently being required to not only conduct phlebotomy, specimen collection, laboratory testing, and electrocardiography, but also get actively involved in 'medical practice assistance or support' in collaboration with medical doctors and nurses. Therefore, it is anticipated that resident clinical laboratory technologists in wards or emergency rooms in Korea will be better able to contribute to improving medical quality and securing medical safety by functioning as a link to the clinical laboratory, while medical doctors and nurses will have a reduced burden of work and can dedicate themselves to better patient care.

• The Korean Journal of Pain
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• v.36 no.1
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• pp.84-97
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• 2023

Background: The concept of high-impact chronic pain (HICP) has been proposed for patients with chronic pain who have significant limitations in work, social life, and personal care. Recognition of HICP and being able to distinguish patients with HICP from other chronic pain patients who do not have life interference allows the necessary measures to be taken in order to restore the physical and emotional functioning of the affected persons. The aim was to reveal the risk factors and predictors associated with HICP. Methods: Patients with chronic pain without life interference (grade 1 and 2) and patients with HICP were compared. Significant data were evaluated with regression analysis to reveal the associated risk factors. Receiving operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate predictors and present cutoff scores. Results: One thousand and six patients completed the study. From pain related cognitive processes, fear of pain (odds ratio [OR], 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.87-0.98; P = 0.007) and helplessness (OR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.12; P = 0.018) were found to be risk factors associated with HICP. Predictors of HICP were evaluated by ROC analysis. The highest discrimination value was found for pain intensity (cut-off score > 6.5; 83.8% sensitive; 68.7% specific; area under the curve = 0.823; P < 0.001). Conclusions: This is the first study in our geography to evaluate HICP with measurement tools that evaluate all dimensions of pain. Moreover, it is the first study in the literature to evaluate predictors and cut-off scores using ROC analysis for HICP.

• Journal of Pharmacopuncture
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• v.27 no.2
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• pp.70-81
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• 2024

Objectives: Cognitive impairments, ranging from mild to severe, adversely affect daily functioning, quality of life, and work capacity. Despite significant efforts in the past decade, more than 200 promising drug candidates have failed in clinical trials. Herbal remedies are gaining interest as potential treatments for dementia due to their long history and safety, making them valuable for drug development. This review aimed to examine the mechanisms behind the effect of Polygonum multiflorum on cognitive function. Methods: This study focused primarily on the effects of Polygonum multiflorum and its chemical constituents on cognitive behavioral outcomes including the Morris water maze, the passive avoidance test, and the Y maze, as well as pathogenic targets of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD) like amyloid deposition, amyloid precursor protein, tau hyperphosphorylation, and cognitive decline. Additionally, a thorough evaluation of the mechanisms behind Polygonum multiflorum's impact on cognitive function was conducted. We reviewed the most recent data from preclinical research done on experimental models, particularly looking at Polygonum multiflorum's effects on cognitive decline and AD. Results: According to recent research, Poligonum multiflorum and its bioactive components, stilbene, and emodin, influence cognitive behavioral results and regulate the pathological target of cognitive impairment and AD. Their mechanisms of action include reducing oxidative and mitochondrial damage, regulating neuroinflammation, halting apoptosis, and promoting increased neurogenesis and synaptogenesis. Conclusion: This review serves as a comprehensive compilation of current experiments on AD and other cognitive impairment models related to the therapeutic effects of Polygonum multiflorum. We believe that these findings can serve as a basis for future clinical trials and have potential applications in the treatment of human neurological disorders.

• Asia pacific journal of information systems
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• v.19 no.2
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• pp.1-42
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• 2009

In a knowledge-based society, a firm's intellectual capital represents the wealth of ideas and ability to innovate, which are indispensable elements for the future growth. Therefore, the intellectual capital is evidently recognized as the most valuable asset in the organization. Considered as intangible asset, intellectual capital is the basis based on which firms can foster their sustainable competitive advantage. One of the essential components of the intellectual capital is a social capital, indicating the firm's individual members' ability to build a firm's social networks. As such, social capital is a powerful concept necessary for understanding the emergence, growth, and functioning of network linkages. The more social capital a firm is equipped with, the more successfully it can establish new social networks. By providing a shared context for social interactions, social capital facilitates the creation of new linkages in the organizational setting. This concept of "person-environment fit" has long been prevalent in the management literature. The fit is grounded in the interaction theory of behavior. The interaction perspective has a fairly long theoretical tradition, beginning with proposition that behavior is a function of the person and environment. This view asserts that neither personal characteristics nor the situation alone adequately explains the variance in behavioral and attitudinal variables. Instead, the interaction of personal and situational variables accounts for the greatest variance. Accordingly, the person-environment fit is defined as the degree of congruence or match between personal and situational variables in producing significant selected outcomes. In addition, information systems acceptance factors enable organizations to build large electronic communities with huge knowledge resources. For example, the Intranet helps to build knowledge-based communities, which in turn increases employee communication and collaboration. It is vital since through active communication and collaborative efforts can employees build common basis for shared understandings that evolve into stronger relationships embedded with trust. To this aim, the electronic communication network allows the formation of social network to be more viable to rapid mobilization and assimilation of knowledge assets in the organizations. The purpose of this study is to investigate: (1) the impact of person-environment fit(person-job fit, person-person fit, person-group fit, person-organization fit) on social capital(network ties, trust, norm, shared language); (2) the impact of information systems acceptance factors(availability, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use) on social capital; (3) the impact of social capital on personal performance(work performance, work satisfaction); and (4) the mediating role of social capital between person-environment fit and personal performance. In general, social capital is defined as the aggregated actual or collective potential resources which lead to the possession of a durable network. The concept of social capital was originally developed by sociologists for their analysis in social context. Recently, it has become an increasingly popular jargon used in the management literature in describing organizational phenomena outside the realm of transaction costs. Since both environmental factors and information systems acceptance factors affect the network of employee's relationships, this study proposes that these two factors have significant influence on the social capital of employees. The person-environment fit basically refers to the alignment between characteristics of people and their environments, thereby resulting in positive outcomes for both individuals and organizations. In addition, the information systems acceptance factors have rather direct influences on the social network of employees. Based on such theoretical framework, namely person-environment fit and social capital theory, we develop our research model and hypotheses. The results of data analysis, based on 458 employee cases are as follow: Firstly, both person-environment fit(person-job fit, person-person fit, person-group fit, person-organization fit) and information systems acceptance factors(availability perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use) significantly influence social capital(network ties, norm, shared language). In addition, person-environment fit is a stronger factor influencing social capital than information systems acceptance factors. Secondly, social capital is a significant factor in both work satisfaction and work performance. Finally, social capital partly plays a mediating role between person-environment fit and personal performance. Our findings suggest that it is vital for firms to understand the importance of environmental factors affecting social capital of employees and accordingly identify the importance of information systems acceptance factors in building formal and informal relationships of employees. Firms also need to reflect their recognition of the importance of social capital's mediating role in boosting personal performance. Some limitations arisen in the course of the research and suggestions for future research directions are also discussed.

• Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship
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• v.9 no.1
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• pp.141-151
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• 2014

Social enterprises provide the job and social service to the weak classes at the same time. As the weak classes such as the aged and disabled who are the main consumers of social enterprises are restricted in moving and gradual approach, so social service providers are required to decide the location by considering their gradual approach more than anythingelse. Therefore, in case of deciding the location of social enterprises it is more important than anythingelse for the social enterprises to select the location by considering the demand of social service of the region preferentially unlike the principles of deciding the location of ordinary enterprises. However, it has been expected that the main causes of various supplying and consuming sides which are provided not only to the ordinary but also the social enterprises might be distributed indiscriminately and unequally in the space of national land by diverse main causes such as the kinds of the products, concentration of the consuming sides, manpower distribution and others, and in this study, what have been used for the examination of regional distribution characteristics of social enterprises which have been operated by being distributed regionally were LQ technique, and the regional distribution characteristics of social enterprises of Korea have been suggested after having them analyzed. This study has the aim of providing the suggestions for the establishment of the policies for the promotion of social enterprises in the future by clarifying the present situations and characteristics of regional distribution of social enterprises of Korea which have been functioning as the suppliers of private social service, and what are required at this time are the political support and social agreement for the location and growth through continuous studies.