Internal Demand Research Articles

The crown of the Regina Scientiarum in South Africa

The early notion of European Universities that developed on a Christian foundation where Theology occupied a special place got lost in the chaos of change brought about by the fourth revolutions world. In addition to these pressures, Theology in South Africa is further constrained by internal demands for transformation at various levels. This research focuses on determining if the education of Theology is still relevant within the current context, how Theological education can and should link to the current eras’ demands, and finally how and why Theology should keep informing and speaking to the three ‘publics’ (Tracy) and the six ‘inters’ (Richardson) to adapt to the new normal of chaotic change – however, at the same time to also stay true to her unique Christian calling. Despite the weight of the demands made from both outside and inside academic circles on Theology as a discipline, it is the responsibility of theological educators to keep the crown intact by letting the light of Christ shine both inside and outside academia.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: Regina Scientiarum is a title for Theology in academia from Aquinas’ time. The question is if Faculties of Theology still have or deserve that title in a democratic South Africa within the metamodern era filled with ecumenism. In this article, suggestions are given as to assure that Theology keeps her title, at least in South Africa.

Impact of internal and network-side demand factors in network-serving load management systems

Impact of internal and network-side demand factors in network-serving load management systems

Genótipos de feijão preto para adaptabilidade, estabilidade e produtividade via modelos mistos para o stado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

ABSTRACT: The study of adaptability, stability, and productivity is essential for selecting and recommending superior genotypes. This fact is particularly the case for the introduction of common bean cultivars in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, whose production is negligible and does not meet the internal demand. Thus, this study estimated genetic parameters and selection gains and undertake a simultaneous selection for adaptability, stability, and productivity in black bean genotypes via mixed models. The investigation was carried out in three municipalities in the state of Rio de Janeiro during three crop years. The trials were set up in a randomized block design with 11 genotypes and three replications. High mean heritability (81%) and selection accuracy (90%), as well as good selection prospects, were observed. Gains between 1.03 and 9.49% were achieved for grain yield. Simultaneous selection was efficient, indicating two black bean lines (CNFP 15290 and CNFP 15361) as the most productive, adaptable, and stable. As such, these lines have the potential to be released as new black bean cultivars for the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Hubungan Koping dengan Prestasi Akademik pada Mahasiswa Perantau Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Andalas

Background: Coping is a cognitive or behavioral effort to deal with external and internal demands. Local foreign students as individuals who go to other areas and are required to be able to adapt to a new environment, if adjustment efforts do not go well it can cause stress or even mental burden which can have an impact on the ability to achieve optimal academic performance. A mechanism is needed to deal with this problem, one of which is coping. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between coping skills and academic achievement in medical students Faculty of Medicine, Andalas University batch 2019. Methods: This research was an analytical study with a cross-sectional approach using total sampling and obtained a total sample of 96 people who are local foreign students of Medical Faculty, Andalas University. Respondent data collection was obtained from questionnaires and data were analyzed using the Fisher’s Exact Test. Results: The results of the univariate analysis showed that the majority of respondents had adaptive coping skills (93.8%) and a minority of respondents had maladaptive coping abilities (6,2%). The categories quite satisfying, satisfying, and very satisfying (53.1%) were the achievement category indexes that were mostly obtained by respondents, and minority respondents had categories with praise (46.9%). Conclusion: There was no significant relationship between coping skills and academic achievement (p=1). Keyword: academic achievement, coping, local foreign student

BUILDING A CHINA - AFRICA COMMUNITY WITH A SHARED FUTURE: PATHWAYS AND PRACTICE

Building a China-Africa Community with a Shared Future requires a nuanced understanding of its concept and the broader vision of a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind. By tracing historical and contemporary drivers, this exploration identifies five strategic pathways: fostering cultural exchange, promoting inclusive economic growth, strengthening collaboration in poverty reduction and public health, establishing a Peace and Security Forum, and advancing climate-focused environmental initiatives. Successfully navigating international complexities and Africa’s internal diversity demands enhanced dialogue and respect for African development autonomy. This endeavour holds transformative potential, rooted in political trust, economic partnership, and shared prosperity, to address global challenges.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0447/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN CIVIL SERVICE: EXPERIENCES FROM EURASIAN UNION COUNTRIES

According to the International Project Management Association (IPMA), the widespread use of modern project management technologies can save approximately 20-30% of time and about 15-20% of budget funds [1]. Global challenges, world trends, and internal demands compel governments to study and adopt each other's experiences, considering national characteristics. Migration processes and the outflow of professional personnel contribute to competition between neighboring countries, which strive to offer better and more flexible working conditions to attract talent. Project management tools and methodologies are valuable resources for enhancing the efficiency of civil servants. These tools help in planning, monitoring, and controlling projects to meet objectives within time, cost, and quality parameters [2].However, the civil service today remains quite bureaucratic in this respect. Project management is primarily used to implement national projects, and professionals are often contracted only to address urgent and complex problems. There is frequently a lack of knowledge transfer and preservation of institutional memory. Moreover, hiring highly paid specialists on a continual basis contradicts the project management principle of budget discipline.Public sector projects often face unique challenges such as bureaucratic hurdles, corruption, and complex stakeholder management. Effective project management can help mitigate these issues by ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient use of resources [3, 4]. However, modern scientific research in this area often highlights several obstacles to the effective implementation of the project approach within executive authorities. In international studies, the importance of thorough planning, a clear understanding of the process matrix, and the involvement of stakeholders in project management is emphasized [5]. This, in turn, is closely linked to personnel issues [6]. The challenges of implementing project management in government agencies stem from bureaucratic regulations, insufficient flexibility, and resistance to change from specialists. Therefore, this topic is of significant interest for its potential impact on our country. Project management in the public administration system has been understudied in the post-Soviet space. Since 2016-2017, there has been an increase in publications on project management in these countries, although contract service remains an insufficiently explored issue. The relevance, novelty, and practical significance of this topic have underscored the necessity of conducting this study.

Efecto de un entrenamiento en habilidades de afrontamiento para el manejo del afecto negativo en un programa de tratamiento para pacientes con dependencia al alcohol

Introduction: coping skills for managing negative affect are defined as the cognitive and behavioral responses that the individual carries out to manage internal and external demands related to emotional states such as fear, sadness, anger, contempt, disgust or guilt. Objective: to evaluate the effect that training in cognitive-behavioral coping skills for managing negative affect has on the alcohol consumption pattern, the level of negative affect and the basic coping style of patients with alcohol dependence. Method: a quasi-experimental design with a control group was used, with pre and posttest measurements. Eleven men and three women participated (M = 33.44 [SD = 11.32]). Results: the results showed statistically significant changes in the experimental group, in the alcohol consumption pattern, (z = -2.52, p < .05), the level of negative affect (z = -2.53, p < .05); in basic coping styles such as problem-solving focus (z = -2.04, p < .05), which increased; and open emotional expression (z = -2.12, p < .05). Discussion and conclusions: the results obtained in this study are consistent with similar research in which people decreased their alcohol consumption as they used coping skills to manage emotions. The importance of including training in specific skills for managing negative affect as a key component of treatment is confirmed.

Tool–Branch Interaction Mechanism of Impact-Pruning Process Based on Finite Element Method

This study addresses the necessity for a more profound comprehension of the mechanical behavior and fracture mechanisms of tree branches during impact pruning. The methodologies of the research are to develop a failure model of impact-cutting mechanics and a tool–branch interaction model using the finite element method (FEM). The validation of the model was conducted through the measurement of cutting forces and cross-sectional morphology in the field. A comparative analysis between experimental and simulation data revealed an average relative error below 15% for cutting force and below 10% for the cross-sectional ratio, thereby confirming the accuracy of the model. The findings indicate the presence of plastic deformation within the cutting zone, with elastic deformation prevailing in the surrounding region. As the branch approaches the yield point, the phenomenon of plastic deformation intensifies, resulting in a notable increase in internal energy demands, particularly in larger branches. The optimal pruning diameter was identified as 15 mm. An increase in cutting velocity raises the peak cutting force by 460.9 N per m/s, while a 1° increase in the blade wedge angle adds 34.9 N. A reduction in normal stress by increasing the tool back angle improves energy efficiency. This study provides insights to optimize pruning practices, enhancing efficiency and precision.

Can ESG Disclosure Stimulate Corporations’ Sustainable Green Innovation Efforts? Evidence from China

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Composite Rating denotes corporations’ capability for supporting sustainable development activities, social responsibility, and transparent and ethical governance. It aims to inform investors and stakeholders about the company’s sustainability and social responsibility risks. ESG has increasingly become an informal yet significant driving force in promoting sustainable green innovation within the diversified co-governance environmental management system. This paper examines the dynamic relationship between ESG performance and sustainable green innovation practices in Chinese A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2022. The results show a positive correlation between ESG performance and the level of corporate sustainable green innovation. They also validate the moderating roles of informal external pressure and internal development demands. While the moderating effect of public environmental concern (PEC) is not significant, corporate digital transformation (CDT) significantly and positively moderates the relationship between ESG performance and sustainable green innovation. These findings offer policymakers and corporations a means to formulate a framework to shape the conduct of corporations to meet the market’s green development needs and to establish instruments that promote green innovation.

IMPACTO DA SÍNDROME DE BURNOUT EM PROFISSIONAIS DE ENFERMAGEM: ESTRATÉGIAS DE PREVENÇÃO E INTERVENÇÃO

ABSTRACTBurnout Syndrome manifests itself from emotional exhaustion resulting from the work environment, associated with a set of individual characteristics of the professional. The case of nurses stands out, who are dedicated to caring for patients, dealing with various conditions and problems, in addition to needing to adapt daily to better serve them. Internal demands, emotional exhaustion and occupational stress contribute to the development of this syndrome. The objective of the research is to describe the impacts caused by Burnout Syndrome on nursing professionals, highlighting the importance of developing prevention and intervention strategies. The methodology used was a literature review, searching for articles and journals that addressed Burnout syndrome in nurses, using specific descriptors to facilitate analysis. The results indicated that work overload, long working hours and constant contact with suffering contribute to the development of professional burnout among nurses. It was concluded that the adoto of effective measures is essential to reduce the impacts of Burnout, promoting balance between professional and personal life, ensuring humanized and highly relevant care for patients.

Gambaran Tingkat Stres Remaja Panti Asuhan di Kota Padang Ditinjau dari Perbedaan Jenis Kelamin

Is a critical developmental period characterized by significant physical and psychological changes. Teenagers living in orphanages, in particular, experience stress due to internal and external demands. This study aims to determine the description of stress levels in teenagers living in orphanages in Padang City in terms of gender differences. The type of research used is descriptive quantitative. The sample in this study was random sampling which amount 268 people in 6 different orphanages in Padang city. The instrument used was the DASS 14 questionnaire, with a cross-sectional study research design. The results of the hypothesis test using the Mann-Whitney test indicate a significance value of 0.001. Since the p-value (0.001) is less than 0.05, it can be concluded that there is a significant difference in stress levels between male and female adolescents living in orphanages in Padang City. The study results show that the stress levels of adolescents in the orphanage tend to be low. However, the orphanage management should still anticipate factors that could increase the stress levels of these adolescents.

Locus coeruleus modulation of prefrontal dynamics and encoding of flexible rule switching.

Behavioral flexibility, the ability to adjust behavioral strategies in response to changing environmental contingencies and internal demands, is fundamental to cognitive functions. Despite a large body of pharmacology and lesion studies, the underlying neurophysiological correlates and mechanisms that support flexible rule switching are under active investigation. To address this question, we trained mice to distinguish complex sensory cues comprising different perceptual dimensions (set shifting). Endoscopic calcium imaging revealed that medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) neurons exhibited pronounced dynamic changes during rule switching. Notably, prominent encoding capacity in the mPFC was associated with switching across, but not within perceptual dimensions. We then showed the functional importance of the ascending input from the locus coeruleus (LC), as LC inhibition impaired rule switching behavior and impeded mPFC dynamic processes and encoding. Our results highlight the pivotal role of the mPFC in set shifting processes and demonstrate the profound impact of ascending neuromodulation on shaping prefrontal neural dynamics and behavioral flexibility.

Cooperative energy interaction for neighboring multiple distribution substation areas considering demand response

With the growing integration of renewable energy into medium- and low-voltage distribution networks, the distribution substation area (DSA) has emerged, encompassing energy storage and loads. This paper introduces an energy interaction framework for multiple DSAs aimed at enhancing local renewable energy consumption. The energy interaction issue among various DSAs is modeled as a Nash bargaining problem to encourage energy exchanges. However, the variability in pricing and internal demand response may influence scheduling decisions, necessitating further investigation. To address price forecast errors, scenarios are developed using a stochastic programming approach to represent price uncertainties while adjusting the DSA’s load accordingly. Optimal power flow constraints are integrated into the model to bolster power system operation security. Additionally, the transmission capacity can impact scheduling outcomes and operational costs. The influence of transmission limitations on operational strategies is examined within the allowable capacity. To solve this issue, the bargaining model is divided into two subproblems, and an enhanced alternating direction multiplier method (ADMM) is used to maintain the privacy of DSAs. The simulation results obtained using the IEEE-33 bus system indicate that energy interaction among multiple DSAs significantly lowers operating costs and facilitates the integration of renewable energy.

Dynamic Pricing and Energy Management of Virtual Power Plant Based on Source-Charge Uncertainty

With the intermittent, random and volatile distributed renewable energy mass influx into the grid and power market, the power system will face greater challenges. As a small energy autonomous system that integrates distributed generation, energy storage and load, virtual power plant connects the power market and end users, and it is also an important subject of power market reform. Its operating efficiency directly determines the effectiveness of market reform. However, virtual power plant faces the market risk of double uncertainty of internal renewable energy output and load demand during operation, so it needs to optimize the market behavior to protect its own interests. Therefore, the paper takes virtual power plant as the research object, and discusses the dynamic pricing strategy of virtual power plant considering the double uncertainty of source and charge and real-time market linkage from the aspects of theoretical analysis, modeling construction and simulation analysis, to provide reference for decision pricing of virtual power plant and formulation of electricity market reform policy.

Key capabilities for closed-loop supply chain: Empirical evidence from manufacturing firms

The objective of this paper is to explore the capabilities to implement closed-loop supply chain (CLSC). In this regard, a theoretical model grounded in natural resource-based view is proposed, which depicts inter-relationships among the capabilities and CLSC. The model is tested using survey data from Indian manufacturing firms by partial least squares (PLS) approach. The findings show information technology and organizational learning as important lower-order capabilities, and internal integration, demand management and product design as significant higher-order capabilities for CLSC implementation. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the first study to examine key capabilities for CLSC. The study contributes to CLSC literature by providing an integrative framework, classifying capabilities into lower-order capabilities and higher-order capabilities, and empirically examining the key capabilities for CLSC. The findings provide managers with insights about the hierarchical levels of capabilities for CLSC, which will help them to accordingly deploy the appropriate resources to build capabilities for CLSC.

Optimal Dynamic Production Planning for Supply Network with Random External and Internal Demands

This paper focuses on joint production/inventory optimization in single and multiple horizons, respectively, within a complicated supply network (CSN) consisting of firm nodes with coupled demands and firm nodes with coupled demands. We first formulate the single-epoch joint optimal output model by allowing the production of extra quantity for stock underage, considering the fixed costs incurred by having inventory over demand and shortfalls. Then, the multi-temporal dynamic joint production model is further investigated to deal with stochastic demand fluctuations among CSN nodes by constructing a dynamic input–output model. The K-convexity defined in Rn space is proved to obtain the optimal control strategy. According to physical flow links, all demands associated to the nodes of CSN are categorized into the inter-node demand inside CSN (intermediate demand) and external demand outside CSN (final demand). We exploit the meliorated input–output matrix to describe demand relations, building dynamic input–output models where demand fluctuates randomly in single-cycle CSN and finite multi-cycle CSN. The novel monocyclic and multicyclic dynamic models have been developed to minimize system-wide operational costs. Unlike existent literature, we consider fixed costs incurred by overdemand and underdemand inventory into system operational cost functions and then demonstrate the convexity of objective functions. The cost function with two fixed penalty costs due to excess and shortage of inventory is developed in a multicycle model, and the K-convexity defined in Rn is proved to find out the optimal strategy for joint dynamic production of CSNs in the case of multi-products and multicycles.

The daily costs of workaholism: A within-individual investigation on blood pressure, emotional exhaustion, and sleep disturbances.

Workaholism literature has been so far focused on individual differences in workaholic tendencies, considering the construct as a stable individual trait and highlighting its health and well-being consequences. Only recently, research has started inspecting the daily dynamics and potential consequences of state workaholism. In this preregistered study, we aimed at systematically investigating the within-individual fluctuations in workaholism levels and their potential short-term and delayed psychophysiological responses as captured by ambulatory assessment integrating subjective and objective data. Using an intensive longitudinal design over 10 workdays with 114 workers from various occupations (2,534 measurement occasions), we found higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure, emotional exhaustion, and sleep disturbances in workdays characterized by higher-than-usual workaholism symptoms. Moreover, the reactivity to state workaholism, as indexed by afternoon blood pressure, was found as a mediator of the subsequent prolonged activation indexed by bedtime blood pressure. Finally, we found evidence of a buffering effect of evening psychological detachment on the relationship between state workaholism and sleep disturbances. Overall, our results support the conceptualization of workaholism as a multilevel phenomenon that acts as an internal job-related demand by showing the typical strain reactions triggered by well-characterized external demands. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting that transient workaholism symptoms can result in significant short-term stress responses at different levels, providing new, robust, and multisource evidence that underlies the importance of effectively preventing and managing dysfunctional work investment since its early manifestation. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Exercise responses to repeated cycle sprints with continuous and intermittent hypoxic exposure.

We examine the impact of the acute manipulation of oxygen availability during discrete phases (active and passive) of a repeated-sprint cycling protocol on performance, physiological, and perceptual responses. On separate days, twelve trained males completed four sets of five 5-s 'all out' cycle sprints (25-s inter-sprint recovery and 5-min interset rest) in four randomized conditions: normobaric hypoxia (inspired oxygen fraction of 12.9%) applied continuously (C-HYP), intermittently during only the sets of sprints (I-HYPSPRINT) or between-sets recovery periods (I-HYPRECOVERY), or not at all (C-NOR). Peak and mean power output, peripheral oxygen saturation, heart rate, blood lactate concentration, exercise-related sensations, and vastus lateralis muscle oxygenation using near-infrared spectroscopy were assessed. Peak and mean power output was ∼4%-5% lower for C-HYP compared to C-NOR (P≤0.050) and I-HYPRECOVERY (P≤0.027). Peripheral oxygen saturation was lower during C-HYP and I-HYPSPRINT compared with C-NOR and I-HYPRECOVERY during sets of sprints (∼83-85 vs. ∼95%-97%; P<0.001), while lower values were obtained for C-HYP and I-HYPRECOVERY than C-NOR and I-HYPSPRINT during between-sets rest period (∼84-85 vs. ∼96%; P<0.001). Difficulty in breathing was ∼21% higher for C-HYP than C-NOR (P=0.050). Ratings of perceived exertion (P=0.435), limb discomfort (P=0.416), heart rate (P=0.605), blood lactate concentration (P=0.976), and muscle oxygenation-derived variables (P=0.056 to 0.605) did not differ between conditions. In conclusion, the method of hypoxic exposure application (continuous vs. intermittent) affects mechanical performance, while internal demands remained essentially comparable during repeated cycle sprints.

Public cancer screening services and participation: What meanings in users' narratives to promote engagement?

Despite the effectiveness of cancer screening (CS) in providing timely diagnoses and early treatments, the participation of citizens remains very low in particular in Southern Italy. This study aims to investigate the meanings that intervene in the relationship between the individual and their active participation in CSs within public healthcare. A total of 101 ad hoc semi-structured interviews were collected with CS users in public service of Campania Region, Italy. The interviews were analyzed through a qualitative-quantitative methodology by T-Lab software. A cluster analysis and multiple matching analysis were conducted. Findings show five clusters: prevention as a sensory and emotional burden; prevention as a strategy to manage the hereditary risk of death; individual's internal demand for health; the times and places of prevention; and the concreteness of doing prevention; and two factors: from the risk of disease diagnosis to preventive measures and from external healthcare settings to internal self-care settings. Findings shed light on how to construct better well-being promotion strategies and foster a subjective health and prevention demand accounting for the continuous experiences of those participating in CSs to encourage greater citizen engagement.

Engine-out hydrocarbon speciation and DOC reaction modeling for dual-fuel combustion concept

The concerns for global warming have pushed very harsh regulations on conventional propulsion systems based on the use of fossil fuels. New technologies are being promoted, but their current technological status needs further research and development to become a competitive substitute for the ever-present internal combustion engine. Transition technologies like hybrid-electric platforms are the preferred solution, but their dependence on the internal combustion engine demands continued developing and improving this technology. Advanced combustion modes like dual-mode dual-fuel combustion are attractive solutions with room for improvement. This work evaluates the specifics of the hydrocarbon composition emitted during the operation of a medium-duty dual-mode dual-fuel engine, analyzing the specific requirements of a diesel oxidation catalyst for this application. Also, the modeling approach of this after-treatment component is revised for this type of application, proposing a new approach and evaluating numerically the performance of a conventional diesel oxidation catalyst. The results show that the new modeling approach brings better accuracy when modeling the transient operation of the engine.