Unique Contribution Research Articles

What is nursing in advanced nursing practice? Applying theories and models to advanced nursing practice-A discursive review.

This article appraises models and theories related to advanced nursing practice. It argues that while the role of the advanced nurse practitioner builds on and extends beyond traditional nursing, it remains firmly grounded in 'caring'. The stereotype that nurses 'care' and doctors 'cure' is fading. Increasingly, nurses have crossed boundaries and conducted independent assessment, diagnosis, prescribing and consultation, which used to be the doctor's role. Confusion and argument have arisen due to the higher-level practice of the advanced nurse practitioner, as many questions where these 'doctor nurses' stand. A literature review. Databases, including CINAHL, Medline and Google Scholar, were searched. Databases were searched, and relevant studies and review articles from 1970 to 2023 were identified using the following keywords: 'advanced nurse practitioner', 'nurse practitioner', 'advanced nursing', 'advance practice', 'nurse practitioner', 'nursing theory' and 'nursing model'. Although advanced nurse practitioners identify themselves as nurses, there is limited use of nursing theory to conceptualize this new level of practice and to define their contribution to the multi-disciplinary team. It is noted that a holistic approach to personalized patient care, based on therapeutic relationships and effective communication, may help us identify the unique contribution of the advanced nurse practitioner. The development of advanced nursing theory needs to capture this holistic approach and its caring element to recognize the value and strengthen the identity allegiance of this hybrid role. Holistic approach and patient-centred care, effective communication and the therapeutic relationship are strong characteristics relating to ANP practice, the latter of which is yet to be clearly defined and captured in nursing theories. Conceptualizing ANP practice and capturing their valuable nursing care will enable better understanding and clarity for the role to realize its full potential.

Prevalence of human T-cell lymphotropic virus-1/2 in Canada over 33years: A unique contribution of blood donors to public health surveillance.

Estimate HTLV-1/2 (human T-cell lymphotropic viruses)prevalence in Canadian blood donors and the association of demographic variables with infection and their corresponding risk factors. First-time blood donors in all Canadian provinces (except Quebec) from 1990 to 2022 were included. Blood samples were tested for HTLV-1/2 by enzyme-linked immunoassay, confirmed by Western blot. Multivariable logistic regression with year, age group, sex, region, neighbourhood material deprivation, and ethnocultural composition indices predicted HTLV-1/2. Since 2005, all HTLV-1/2-positive donors (cases) were invited to participate in a risk factor interview, and 4 non-positive donors (controls per case) were matched for age, sex, and region. Case-control predictors of HTLV-1/2 were analyzed using logistic regression. There were 3,085,554 first-time donors from 1990 to 2022. HTLV-1/2 prevalence remained low (12 per 100,000 in 2022, 95% CI 6.4-23.5). The odds ratios predicting HTLV-1/2 were higher in females (2.0, 95% CI 1.5-2.6), older age groups (50 + ; 6.3, 95% CI 4.3-9.2), British Columbia and Ontario, thosematerially deprived (1.9, 95% CI 1.2-2.9), and those inethnocultural neighbourhoods (7.5, 95% CI 3.2-17.3). Most HTLV-1/2 in Ontario was HTLV-1, whereas in British Columbia half were HTLV-2. Forty-three of 149 (28.8%) cases and 172 of 413 (41.6%) controlscompleted an interview. The strongest predictor of HTLV-1/2 in case-control analysis was birth in a high-prevalence country (OR 39.8, 95% CI 7.8-204.3) but about 50% of HTLV-1 and 90% of HTLV-2 were Canadian-born. HTLV-1/2 prevalence is low in blood donors. High-prevalence country of birth accounts for about half of HTLV-1; HTLV-2 positives are usually Canadian-born. HTLV-1/2 transmission likely occurs overseas and within Canada.

Implications of HR managers' green attitude: a study of Indian hospitality sector

PurposeThe paper examines the influence of green attitude of HR managers on the other key HRM variables in an organizational context. Specifically, the objective of the paper was to determine if HR managers’ green attitude influences the green behavior of employees in an organization, while accounting for the mediating and moderating effect of contingent variables.Design/methodology/approachData were gathered from 175 human resources managers of Indian hotels using a structured instrument and subjected to partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis, using SmartPLS 3.0 software.FindingsWhile the green attitude of human resource managers was found to positively influence the green behavior of employees, it was observed that the extent of green rewards played a mediating role in the relationship. Top management support was found to moderate the relationship between green attitude of human resource managers and green human resource management practices.Practical implicationsThe study identifies how green behavior of employees can be improved by focusing primarily on the green attitude of HR managers. Thus, recruiting HR managers with high green orientation, contingent on the exogenous factors mentioned in the study being considered, will result in greater pro-environment employee behavior.Originality/valueOur unique contribution was viewing greening practices in the organization through the HR managers’ lens, who are critical in implementing green practices in an organization, thus providing novel insights compared to earlier studies in the field.

Influence of Retirement Experiences on Psychological Well-Being of Retired Teachers in East Gonja Municipality, Ghana

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of retirement experiences on psychological well-being of retired teachers in the East Gonja Municipality. The study employed a quantitative approach underpinned by analytical cross-sectional design. The target population of the study comprised of retired teachers in the East Gonja Municipality. A total of 320 retired teachers from East Gonja Municipality were purposively selected to constitute the sample for the study. Methodology: Scale of Positive and Negative Experience (SPANE) and Psychological Well-Being Scale were adopted for data collection. Data was analysed using means and standard deviation and linear regression. Findings: The study found that most of the retired teachers in the East Gonja Municipality in the Savannah Region of Ghana experience positive emotions, express optimism, and are satisfied with their lives in their retirement phase of life. Unique contribution to theory, policy and practice: The study concludes that retirement experiences are unique and can be a liberating experience for retired teachers, where they can pursue their interests and hobbies without any restrictions. It is recommended that retirement should be a time for retired teachers to focus on their health and well-being, a time they can pursue activities that promote physical and mental health. This study recommends to education system to provide pre-retirement counselling and post-retirement support programmes, focusing on mental health and well-being. Also, the study recommends to pension and retirement agencies to develop and implement workshops and peer support programmes to promote retired teachers’ psychological well-being, addressing issues of social isolation and identity loss.

The Impact of Realism on U.S. Foreign Policy during the Trump Presidency

Purpose: This article explored the impact of realism on American foreign policy during the Trump administration, striving to answer whether Trump adopted a realist stance or employed a unique blend of realism to enhance American interests on the global stage. Methodology: Centering on theoretical analysis and historical context, this study investigated the alignment of Trump's controversial personality and his "America First" slogan with the quest for national interests and power dynamics. This paper spotlighted Trump's unorthodox implementation of realism by exploring specific global issues, such as security strategies, trade policies, and diplomatic methods. Findings: This paper underscored Trump's deviation from traditional realism and adopting an unconventional realist approach. Particular emphasis was placed on this approach's implications for global power dynamics and the ethical dimensions of U.S. foreign policy. This study pinpointed noteworthy results from Trump's unique fusion of realism, providing insights into its effects on international relations. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This research contributed to theoretical comprehension and practical implications for future American foreign policy. It illuminated the Trump administration's unorthodox implementation of realism and its ramifications for international cooperation. Moreover, this paper advocated for a balanced approach incorporating strategic pragmatism with ethical leadership to efficiently tackle intricate global challenges and uphold the United States' role in the international arena.

Advanced Carbon Management: Innovations in Materials and Process Integration for Carbon Capture, Storage, and Utilization (CCSU)

Purpose: This article systematically explores the complex landscape of Carbon Capture, Storage, and Utilization (CCSU) technologies, emphasizing their critical role in global climate change mitigation. The article aims to provide a strategic framework for stakeholders to understand the integration of CCSU technologies into the broader energy and environmental policy landscape. Methodology: Through an integrated approach, this study examines the latest technological advancements in CCSU, studies the global regulatory frameworks influencing these technologies, and analyzes the economic factors that drive or obstruct their adoption. It also involves evaluating the role of international cooperation in standardizing and disseminating best practices for CCSU implementations worldwide. Findings: The study highlights the profound impact of legislative and financial mechanisms on the pace and scope of CCSU technology deployment. It discusses the potential of innovative materials and processes to reduce costs and increase the efficacy of carbon capture and storage. Furthermore, the review provides valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of CCSU technologies. Unique contribution to theory, policy and practice: The article emphasizes the necessity of robust research and development, supported by a conducive policy environment and strategic economic incentives, to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and commercial viability of CCSU technologies. It concludes with targeted recommendations for policymakers, suggesting ways to refine regulatory approaches and foster market conditions conducive to rapid CCSU adoption.

Assessing the Impact of Education on Life Expectancy in Rwanda

Purpose: Education's impact on life expectancy is a crucial area of study, particularly in nations undergoing rapid demographic and epidemiological transitions like Rwanda. This research examines the intricate relationship between education and life expectancy in Rwanda, considering the nation's advancements in education and healthcare. Despite progress, challenges persist in ensuring equitable access to quality education. Methodology: The study utilizes quantitative research methods, employing descriptive, correlation, and causal-comparative approaches, alongside econometric analyses like co-integration tests and vector error correction models. Data covering the period from 1965 to 2020 were collected from the World Bank Database. Findings: Findings indicate a significant effect of education on fertility rates, with higher education levels associated with lower fertility. Additionally, forecasts project an increase in life expectancy across educational groups, albeit less pronounced for the less educated. Gender disparities persist, with the rate of decrease in life expectancy differences between males and females slower than in previous decades. Increasing prediction intervals highlight growing uncertainty over time. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The research contributes to understanding the complex interplay between education and life expectancy in Rwanda, offering insights for policy interventions to enhance population health outcomes and promote sustainable development. This study underscores the imperative for targeted strategies to mitigate educational barriers and advance inclusive development, addressing existing gaps in empirical evidence within the Rwandan context.

Exploring Awareness and Understanding of Breast Cancer Risk Factors, Screening, and Treatment among Females in Pakistan

Purpose: Breast cancer is a pressing concern in Pakistan, ranking as the second leading cause of death among women. Despite its increasing incidence, it often lacks adequate attention from policymakers and healthcare professionals. This oversight could have severe consequences. To effectively tackle this health crisis, a thorough understanding of breast cancer's prevalence, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes in Pakistan is crucial. Methodology: To assess the level of awareness and understanding of breast cancer among women, this study was conducted. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the outpatient department of Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi, involving 350 female patients. Data were collected using a pre-structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS Version 16.0. Findings: Descriptive statistics were used, and the results were expressed as percentages and presented graphically. The study found that 70% of women were aware of breast cancer. Furthermore, 74% of the patients were married, and 87% had children. Knowledge about signs, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer was relatively high among the women surveyed. However, only 23% of women had knowledge about performing breast self-examinations, and 18% had heard about mammography. This study provides valuable insights into breast cancer awareness and prevention behaviors among women in Pakistan, with significant implications for theory, policy, and practice. The findings highlight gaps in knowledge and awareness, particularly regarding breast self-examinations and mammography screenings. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Policy implications stemming from the study results include the need for targeted awareness campaigns, educational programs, and screening initiatives to improve breast cancer awareness and preventive behaviors among women in Pakistan. Policymakers should allocate resources towards these efforts and integrate breast cancer education into existing healthcare services and community outreach programs to ensure widespread dissemination of information and access to screening services.

Crafting an Inclusive Procurement Policy: Strategies for Embracing Supplier Diversity

Purpose: In today's global marketplace, diversity and inclusion have transitioned from mere buzzwords to indispensable elements of successful business practices. A robust procurement policy that embraces supplier diversity not only cultivates a more inclusive supply chain but also drives economic growth and social progress. Methodology: This article examines key strategies for integrating supplier diversity into procurement policies, drawing insights from existing literature and best practices in the field of supply chain management and diversity initiatives. Findings: The article outlines strategies such as incorporating diverse suppliers into Requests for Proposals (RFPs), setting thresholds for diverse supplier consideration, addressing risk acceptance and deviations, and emphasizing genuine efforts over token gestures. It highlights the importance of striking a balance between excellence and diversity while prioritizing active engagement with diverse suppliers. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: By synthesizing insights from academic research and real-world case studies, this article offers actionable recommendations for organizations seeking to enhance their supplier diversity initiatives. It underscores the necessity of genuine efforts in supplier diversity initiatives, advocating for the integration of diversity considerations into procurement policies to foster economic empowerment, social equity, and long-term sustainability in supply chain operations.

Planning Policies and Public Health in Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) and Its Policies to Combat COVID-19 in Duhok City

Purpose: The Kurdistan region of Iraq had been affect by the covid pandemic like the rest of the part in the world and Duhok city specifically faced several problems as the city and health policy were not ready to ace the crises. It had a negative impact on the sustainability of health sector specifically the economic side. This study tries to identify the problems to achieve tan appropriate standard of good health among Kurdistan's general population, especially in the city of Duhok, to ensure more equitable access to health services throughout the country's social and geographic expansion, take into account poverty and to strive to get better treatment, understand the condition of the city of Duhok via COVID-19, and how the government deals with the medical system in this condition, protect and encourage the right to health care for individuals and create equality in the health care system for both genders, beliefs and positions. Methodology: Through conducting the qualitative research approach by using two types for collecting data ( Data Collection Methods) which are primary data and secondary data, primary data for collecting direct information from patients and IDPs and refugees to know their health conditions and whether they are satisfied or not for public health system, physicians as well to know their treatment to patients, and secondary data to gather information from health directorate in Duhok city, camp health administration and humanitarian health organizations to understand better the situation. Findings: The findings of the study indicates that the pandemic struck at a time when public faith in the government was low, the economy was damaged by lower oil sales income, protests were common across the country, and violent extremist acts were on the rise. COVID-19 has worsened long-standing and sometimes deep-seated political, economic, social, and security issues. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a dramatic loss of human life around the world, posing an unprecedented challenge to public health, food systems, and the workplace. The pandemic's economic and social impact is devastating: tens of millions of people are at risk of falling into extreme poverty, while the number of undernourished people is currently estimated to be nearly 690 million, By the end of the year, the number could have risen to 132 million. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Food security, public health, and employment and labor issues, particularly worker health and safety, all intersect during the COVID-19 crisis. However, in Azadi hospital we cannot talk to people because of virus, the risk of contracting COVID-19 via an infected person's feces appears to be low. The COVID-19 virus may cause intestinal infection and be found in feces, according to some data.

Dropshipping Strategies in Luxury and Fashion Retail - Unveiling the Potential

Purpose: Dropshipping, a supply chain management model where the retailer does not keep goods in stock but instead transfers customer orders and shipment details to either the manufacturer, another retailer, or a wholesaler who then ships the goods directly to the customer, has gained significant traction in various industries. However, its application in luxury and fashion retail remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the potential of dropshipping strategies within the context of luxury and fashion retail, analyzing its benefits, challenges, and implications for businesses operating in this sector. Methodology: This research employs a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies, and industry trends to gather insights into dropshipping practices in luxury and fashion retail. Findings: Our analysis reveals that dropshipping offers promising opportunities for luxury and fashion retailers to enhance operational efficiency, expand market reach, and provide exceptional customer experiences. Challenges such as maintaining brand reputation and managing supplier relationships are identified and discussed. Unique contribution to theory policy and practice: This paper contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the application of dropshipping in the luxury and fashion retail sector. It provides practical recommendations for retailers to leverage dropshipping effectively, thereby advancing both theoretical understanding and practical implications for industry stakeholders and policymakers.

Theoretical strategies for an embodied cognitive neuroscience: Mechanistic explanations of brain-body-environment systems

ABSTRACT Cognitive neuroscience seeks to explain mind, brain, and behavior. But how do we generate explanations? In this integrative theoretical paper, we review the commitments of the ‘New Mechanist’ movement within the philosophy of science, focusing specifically on the role of mechanistic models in scientific explanation. We highlight how this approach differs from other explanatory approaches within the field, showing its unique contributions to the efforts of scientific explanation. We then argue that the commitments of the Embodied Cognition framework converge with the commitments of the New Mechanist movement in a way that provides a necessary explanatory strategy available to cognitive neuroscience. We then discuss a number of consequences of this convergence, including issues related to the inadequacy of statistical prediction, neuroscientific reduction, the autonomy of psychology from neuroscience, and psychological and neuroscientific ontology. We hope that our integrative thesis provides researchers with a theoretical strategy for an embodied cognitive neuroscience.

Variants of the P3 event-related potential operate as indicators of distinct mechanisms contributing to problematic alcohol use.

Considerable research has linked relative reduction in the amplitude of the P3 event-related potential (ERP) during cognitive task performance (i.e., Target-P3) with increased risk of alcohol-related problems. A separate literature indicates that a relative increase in the amplitude of the P3 elicited by cues signaling alcohol availability (i.e., ACR-P3) also is associated with alcohol use and problems. To date, no research has integrated these seemingly discrepant findings. Here, we aimed to demonstrate that P3 amplitudes elicited in different task contexts reflect distinct domains of functioning relevant to problematic alcohol involvement (PAI), and therefore can inform heterogeneity in the etiology of PAI. 156 emerging adults (61% women; 88% White/Non-Hispanic) completed a mental rotation task and a picture-viewing task while ERPs were recorded. Participants also completed questionnaire measures of trait disinhibition, alcohol use, and alcohol-related problems. Findings from regression analyses indicated that (a) Target-P3 was negatively associated and ACR-P3 was positively associated with a PAI latent variable; (b) the two P3s accounted for unique variance in PAI, beyond that accounted for by recent drinking; and (c) the association between Target-P3 and PAI-but not ACR-P3 and PAI-was statistically mediated by trait disinhibition. The present findings highlight the unique contributions of distinct functional domains associated with disinhibition and incentive salience in the etiology of PAI. Moreover, findings are consistent with a nuanced understanding of the P3 ERP, whereby its specific meaning varies according to the task context in which it is elicited.

An examination of corporate citizenship on customer loyalty in the banking industry: a PLS-SEM analysis

Purpose This research aims to address the need for a more in-depth empirical investigation of exploring the link between the adoption of corporate citizenship (CC) practices and different aspects of customer behavior in a developing country. Also, it develops a research framework and assesses the mediating role of brand image, brand love, brand reputation and brand trust between customer perceptions of CC and customer loyalty. Design/methodology/approach Working with a sample of 290 private bank customers in Iran, partial least square-based structural equation modeling is used to test the conceptual model. Findings The findings reveal significant and positive relationships between CC, brand image, love and reputation. Indirectly and in the relationship between CC and customer loyalty, there are significant relationships through the serial roles of image-reputation, image-love and image-trust. Most importantly, the findings add value to the current knowledge by exploring the mediating effect of brand image, love, reputation and trust between CC and customer loyalty. Finally, this study has resulted in an updated prediction model of private banking customer loyalty. Originality/value This study makes a unique theoretical contribution to the literature by evaluating and comparing the mediating role of image, love, reputation and brand trust between CC and customer loyalty using the hierarchy of effects model.

Apathy and Depression Among People Aging With Traumatic Brain Injury: Relationships to Cognitive Performance and Psychosocial Functioning.

Apathy and depression are both common after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and may be especially important to distinguish in older adults with TBI. The authors examined apathy and depression in relation to cognitive performance domains and their potentially unique contribution to psychosocial functioning in this patient population. A total of 106 participants (mean±SD age=64±8 years) with chronic moderate to severe TBI (≥1 year) completed questionnaires assessing severity of apathy (Frontal Systems Behavior Scale-apathy subscale) and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale-15) symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and societal participation. Participants also completed neuropsychological tests of episodic memory, processing speed, and executive functioning. Apathy symptom severity was significantly associated with all cognitive performances in correlations adjusted for the familywise error rate; a relationship with executive functioning remained after controlling for demographic and injury variables. Depression symptom severity was not significantly associated with cognition after statistical correction. Both symptomatologies uniquely contributed to HRQoL. Only depression symptoms contributed to societal participation. On the basis of clinical cutoffs, half the sample had neither depression nor apathy, approximately 25% met criteria for only apathy, and 25% had both apathy and depression. The combined presence of clinical depression and apathy was associated with worse HRQoL and societal participation. This is the first study to examine apathy and depression in relation to cognition and psychosocial functioning in an older sample with a history of TBI. Findings suggest that the two syndromes can be dissociated in clinically meaningful ways, which may help to refine psychiatric and behavioral interventions in this vulnerable population.

Influence of Clinician-Related Factors on Adherence to the American Heart Association Guidelines for Acute Coronary Syndrome among Clinicians at Kenya Ports Authority Clinics in Mombasa, Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess influence of clinician-related factors on adherence to the American heart association guidelines for acute coronary syndrome among clinicians at Kenya Ports Authority clinics in Mombasa, Kenya. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving quantitative methods of data collection was adopted. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The study was carried out in Kenya Ports Authority clinics in Mombasa, Kenya. The target population was 106 clinicians attending to patients who present with Acute Coronary Syndrome at the KPA clinics in Mombasa. A census method was used to determine the study participants. The sample size was made up of a hundred and six participants. The clinicians who consented to participate in the study were included while those who were on sick off, leave or who recently joined the clinic were excluded. Pretesting of the study tool was done at the Kenya Pipeline Clinic Mombasa. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 and presented via tables. Findings: The study results showed that at 95% level of confidence (ρ-value = 0.05%), there was a significant association between gender (ᾳ=0.025), work experience (ᾳ=0.016), job cadre (ᾳ=0.014) and training received (ᾳ=0.022) on adherence to the American Heart Association Guidelines for Acute Coronary Syndrome among clinicians at Kenya Ports Authority clinics in Mombasa, Kenya. The association was insignificant between age (ᾳ=0.178), education level (ᾳ=0.439) and specialization (ᾳ=0.489) on adherence to the AHA guidelines. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that the KPA management should increase the medical budget to ensure availability of adequate resources for ACS patient management. These resources include adequate staffing, medication, equipment, and staff training costs. The clinic management should ensure that medications such as aspirin, morphine and nitroglycerine are readily available and accessible at patients care points. The KPA clinic management to formulate a simple algorithm that outlines the steps to be taken when managing ACS patients. The study recommends that the clinics should assess their equipment reqularly for maintenance controls to ensure efficiency. The study further recommends random assessments and post care audits to assess the adherence to ACS guidelines among clinicians. Training associated with adherence to the AHA guidelines and as such, KPA should continue offering training and education on the latest AHA guidelines for ACS to ensure updated guidelines for practice.

Online Sports Betting and Demographic Factors' Effects on Student-Athletes’ Mental Health

Purpose: The objective of the study was to determine how the interaction between the volume of online sports betting and the demographic factors affects how student-athletes perceive the repercussions on their mental health. Methodology: Cross-sectional survey research was used for this study. Thirty-eight universities both public and private were sampled. Self-reporting questionnaires, key interview schedules and an observation plan were all used by the researcher. With the help of the SPSS version 25 programme, the data were coded and examined. Testing the impact of demographic factors on the connection between dependent and independent variables involved regression analysis with an interaction effect. The link between the independent variables was investigated using correlation analysis. Data was presented in form of tables and figures. Findings: The findings demonstrate a substantial and positive correlation between the level of gambling and mental health (r = 0.411, P>0.0001). The findings of the regression of coefficients showed a positive and significant relationship between the severity of gambling and students' mental wellness (r = 0.576, P>0.0001). The R1 Squared value was greater than 0.169 (without interaction) at 010.731 (with demographic factors interaction). The interaction impact of the demographic parameters was significant (p-value = 0.012). Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This suggests that the association between the intensity of gambling and mental wellness is significantly influenced by the combination of demographic factors. According to study, regular bettors are more likely to attempt or commit suicide because they are more prone to feel anger, rage, and guilt after suffering significant losses. Particularly when students are under stress, this is true. Online sports betting has also been linked to high levels of addiction, just like alcohol, drugs, and items related to smoking.

Synthesizing three decades of digital servitization: a systematic literature review and conceptual framework proposal

AbstractThis study, through a systematic literature review spanning 1990 to 2023, interrogates how servitization, and nowadays digital servitization, enhances manufacturing competitiveness. It introduces the DASOBI (Drivers, Actors, Strategies, Obstacles, Benefits, and Impact) framework for navigating the digital servitization transition, emphasizing strategic adaptability and technological alignment. Analysis of 157 articles reveals a significant increase in research, highlighting digital servitization’s role in competitive enhancement and customer engagement. The DASOBI framework offers manufacturers a novel approach for managing this transition, marking a unique contribution by distilling extensive literature into actionable insights for both theory and practice in the evolving field of digital servitization.

Structural and Functional Characteristics of the Oral Cavity Organs and Tissues in Workers of the Petrochemical Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine the dental status, level, and structure of dental diseases, as well as to identify some clinical and functional deviations in the organs and tissues of the oral cavity among workers in certain industrial enterprises. Methodology: A comprehensive dental examination was conducted on 1600 individuals, including 420 from the Fergana Oil Refinery Plant (FNPP - main group (MG)-1), 425 from the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Plant (AGMK - MG-2), and 605 from the Navoi Chemical Plant (NavCP - MG-3), as well as 150 patients as a control group (CG) who visited a dental clinic. Tooth sensitivity (TS), pain and discriminatory sensitivity (PS and DS) of the oral mucosa, taste perception threshold, and functional mobility of the taste receptors on the tongue, enamel resistance to caries, microhardness (MH) of enamel and dentin, and the condition of periodontal tissues and pH of mixed saliva were determined. The data obtained were processed using statistical methods. Findings: It was determined that the levels and relative weights of the main dental diseases among workers in the studied industries remain quite high; carious and non-carious lesions of the tooth hard tissues, deformation and defects of teeth and dental rows (18.5%), periodontal tissue diseases (74.7%), diseases of the oral mucosa - 38.7%; the need for prosthetics (58.4%) and other pathologies. Additionally, almost all clinical and functional indicators and local non-specific reactivity of the tissues of the oral cavity in workers were disrupted. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The presence of the main dental diseases among those surveyed from the studied groups is quite high, with noted reductions in the excitability threshold of teeth, around tooth tissues and the oral mucosa, disruption of PS and DS of the oral mucosa, as well as deterioration of the condition of tooth hard tissues. Based on the obtained results, the authors suggest continuing in-depth scientific research with the aim of developing effective methods for the diagnosis and prevention of dental diseases among workers in these industries.

The role of theta and gamma oscillations in item memory, source memory, and memory confidence.

Theta and gamma oscillations have been linked to episodic memory processes in various studies. Both oscillations seem to be vital for processes guided by the medial temporal lobe, such as the retrieval of information from memory. While theta oscillations increase with successful memory, it is unclear what the unique contribution of theta is to various subcomponents of memory. On the other hand, memory-related gamma oscillations have been mainly reported in the hippocampus, leaving the role of neocortical gamma in memory underexplored. In this study, we investigated how unique variability in memory accuracy and memory confidence contributes to fluctuations in theta and gamma power. To this end, we recorded EEG from 54 participants while they performed a source memory task. From this task we obtained their item memory accuracy, source memory accuracy, item memory confidence, and source memory confidence. These behavioral measures were put in a trial-by-trial linear mixed effects model to uncover their unique contribution to the oscillatory power in frontal and parietal regions. Our results are in line with the involvement of theta oscillations in both memory accuracy and confidence, but seem to indicate a main role for theta oscillations in memory-related confidence. In addition, we found that gamma oscillations play various roles in memory processing, dependent on brain region.