bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power in the Process of Reversing Mission Drift in Hybrid Organizations: The Case of a French Multinational Worker Co-operative
Authors: Bretos Ignacio , Errasti Anjel , Marcuello Carmen
Published: November 2023

Understanding how hybrid organizations resist mission drift and sustain the joint pursuit of their plural goals over time remains a central theoretical and practical concern in the business and society literature. In this article, we mobilize an organizational politics approach to elucidate how hybrid organizations react to mission drift and strive to rebalance the relationship between their conflicting missions. Drawing on an in-depth longitudinal analysis of a project developed within a multinational worker co-op to reverse mission drift, we elaborate a process model showing how shifting patterns in the mobilization of episodic and systemic forms of power provoke critical changes in the way that plural missions are construed and enacted within hybrid organizations. This study also contributes to the field of co-operative organization and management studies by revealing that the transfer of organizational practices within multinational co-ops is more critically shaped by power relations and conflicting interests rather than, as much of the previous literature has argued, by host country institutions.
Patient mistreatment and new nurse adjustment: The role of rumination and work engagement
Authors: Wang Hai-Jiang , Li Peikai , Bauer Talya N , Erdogan Berrin
Published: November 2023

During organizational entry, newcomers often draw upon internal resources like coworkers and supervisors to navigate their roles. Could external interactions with customers or patients hold the key to newcomer adjustment in certain job contexts? Our study, rooted in the conservation of resources theory, identifies a critical link between mistreatment from external parties and newcomer adjustment—a connection that is explained by rumination and work engagement. Through two studies involving new nurses in China (Study 1: four-wave cross-lagged panel design, N = 181; Study 2: four-wave time-lagged design, N = 198), we uncover that mistreatment from patients results in rumination among newcomers, leading to diminished task mastery and role clarity, as mediated by reduced work engagement. This ripple effect of external mistreatment persists even when accounting for internal mistreatment (abusive supervision and coworker incivility). Our results illustrate how negative interactions with external entities can hinder newcomer adjustment—a revelation with far-reaching implications for practitioners and future research.1
A Siamese CNN-BiLSTM-based method for unbalance few-shot fault diagnosis of rolling bearings
Authors: Liu Xiyang , Chen Guo , Wang Hao , Wei Xunkai
Published: November 2023

Small and imbalanced fault samples have a profound impact on the diagnostic performance of a model in the process of locating and quantifying the rolling bearing damage of aeroengines in practice. Therefore, a Siamese Convolutional Neural Network-Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-BiLSTM) model was proposed in this paper. Random selection and cross combination methods were used to augment and balance sample sizes at first. Then, two weight-sharing CNN-BiLSTM models were used for adaptive extraction and distance measurement of weak fault features. Finally, the fault classification was performed based on feature distance. Model performance was verified using simulated fault test data of rolling bearings. The results showed that the Siamese CNN-BiLSTM model could achieve an accuracy of up to 96.0% for quantitative diagnosis and 98.0% for location diagnosis. This model was also capable of solving the imbalanced classification of samples and made it possible to transfer between different rotating speeds and working conditions.
The Efficient and Dignified Roles of the Crown in Canadian Foreign Policy
Authors: Berthelsen Richard , Lagassé Philippe
Published: November 2023

This article draws on Walter Bagehot's distinction between efficient and dignified institutions to examine an understudied facet of the monarchy in Canada: the Crown's role in Canadian foreign policy. The Canadian Crown acts in global affairs in two ways: through the efficient prerogative powers of the Crown exercised by Cabinet, and by means of the dignified “public diplomacy” performed by the office of the governor general. The article demonstrates that the Crown's prerogative powers remain the underlying authority that Canadian governments exercise when pursuing foreign policy objectives and acting in the world. The article then traces the growth of the vice-regal office's foreign policy functions, as well how the governor general's public diplomacy efforts contribute to Canada's global engagement. The article concludes with a brief discussion of King Charles III's place in Canadian foreign affairs as the head of state of multiple, independent realms.
Statistical characterization of microcellular polyurethane foams microstructure based on 2D and 3D image analysis
Authors: Le Saux Matthieu , Le Bail Jean-Baptiste , Becker Justin , Caër Célia , Charrier Pierre , Le Saux Vincent , Maheo Laurent , Marco Yann
Published: November 2023

This paper presents protocols developed to quantitatively characterize the cellular microstructure of microcellular polyurethane foams, from scanning electron microscopy (2D) and X-ray micro-computed tomography (2D and 3D) data. The objectives are to provide, for both techniques: (i) a detailed description of the analysis steps based on open source Python algorithms; (ii) a method for automatic, robust and objective detection of the cells to limit user’s biases; (iii) a statistical description of fraction, size, shape and spatial distribution of cells. The study considers 12 samples with densities ranging from about 400 to 600 kg m−3and pore sizes from a few micrometers to several hundred micrometers. In addition, the database obtained is used to investigate the reliability of 2D measurements to describe the cellular microstructure statistics.
Incorporating World Englishes into Middle and High Schools in Korea: Teachers’ Awareness and Attitudes
Authors: Shin Seon Young , Walkinshaw Ian
Published: November 2023

The worldwide utility and status of English have given it enormous cachet in Korea. English education has been heavily emphasized in Korean middle and high schools as a means to foster a globally-oriented, linguistic diversity-aware citizenry. Yet the predominant model for language learners in Korea remains an idealized speaker of British or American English – the so-called ‘native speaker’ model. A World Englishes (WE)-informed model of English language teaching would be more in line with the Ministry of Education's stated vision, but uptake of this paradigm has been slow in Korean schools. We therefore investigate the perceptions and attitudes of Korean middle and high school English language teachers about the place of WE in Korea's English education system. Specifically: (a) What are Korean English teachers’ perceptions towards WE?; and (b) What challenges and barriers do they perceive in integrating WE into Korea's English education system? Survey data from 106 Korean middle and high school English teachers, supported by a subset of eight interviews, show that the sample view English as a global mode of communication among all its users, though they often view the ‘native’ varieties of English as more prestigious than those from other countries. They acknowledge the desirability of incorporating a WE-informed paradigm into Korea's English education system, but the varieties which they advocate are all from Anglophone countries. They also identify numerous challenges to implementing WE in Korea's classrooms. One is the need for teachers to prepare their students for high-stakes examinations which are uniformly constructed around British and American English. Another is the perceived community pressure to emphasize American English in their teaching. Finally, the absence of any WE-informed teacher education resources limit their knowledge about WE and how to teach it to students.
Trends and Determinants of Intergenerational Educational Inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa for Birth Cohorts 1974 to 2003
Authors: Plavgo Ilze , Bernardi Fabrizio
Published: November 2023

This article expands the scope of comparative social stratification research in education to rapidly developing, largely low-income sub-Saharan Africa. First, we investigate trends in the association between parental socioeconomic status (SES) and children’s chances to attend and complete primary education, exploring whether and where educational expansion of the early twenty-first century led to equalization of educational opportunities. Drawing on data from 153 Demographic and Health Surveys and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (1990–2017) from 40 countries, findings indicate that inequality in attendance declined, but inequality in completing six grades largely persisted. Cross-country analyses reveal a large variation in inequality levels and trends. We explore the role of national contextual factors and find that underweight prevalence, fertility rates, school fees, public spending on education, and the ratio of pupils to teaching staff systematically explain variation in SES gaps across countries and cohorts. Findings underline the importance of absolute material deprivation and school teaching resources in the stratification of educational opportunities in this region.
Joy, Compassion, and Job Satisfaction: Insights into the Canadian Prison Chaplaincy
Authors: Akca Davut , Ammar Nawal H. , Shoemaker Brad , Cesaroni Carla , Ouellet Michael
Published: November 2023

This paper presents an exploratory study about the experiences of 25 inter-faith chaplains in five Canadian provinces. It utilizes a focus groups methodology. The goal of this qualitative research was to highlight the voices of the chaplains. Hence, the focus groups explored the unique and challenging experiences of chaplains’ work in Canadian prisons. Data from all seven focus groups indicated that despite multiple challenges and obstacles, the correctional chaplains remain dedicated to their work and are committed to making a positive impact on their prisoners. Based on the data provided by the chaplains about the intrinsic rewards and various challenges they face in their day-to-day work, the paper makes several research and policy recommendations. The objective of such recommendations is to maximize the role that religion and/or spirituality could play in prisoners’ positive adaptation, and eventual criminal desistance in a context of confinement characterized by loss of personal autonomy and self-identity.
Funerary Objects and an Intact Secondary Burial in the Early Ramesside Tomb of Iurokhy at Saqqara
Authors: Hassan Khaled
Published: November 2023

The area of the North Saqqara plateau south of the causeway of King Unas became one of the most prominent necropolis sites of Memphis during the New Kingdom. It is where the archaeological expedition of the Faculty of Archaeology, Cairo University discovered dozens of temple-shaped tombs dating to the Ramesside Period. Recently, the expedition led by Ola El-Aguizy uncovered the tomb of Iurokhy (Urhiya), an army general during the early reign of Ramesses II. This paper focuses on the unusual finds discovered in one of the tomb’s chapels. These comprise an intact secondary burial in a wooden coffin along with wooden shabtis. This paper proposes to identify the individual buried in the chapel as a member of the personnel that serviced the mortuary cult of Iurokhy. Further objects deposited in the chapel shed light on the continued use of the chapel as a space of burial and commemoration.

[Formula: see text]
Optimization and techno-economic analysis of hybrid renewable energy systems for the electrification of remote areas
Authors: Faisal Ameer , Anwer Naqui
Published: November 2023

The welfare of the villages is one of the primary objectives of the rural electrification programmes. Compared to electrifying urban regions, electrifying rural areas is more expensive. Energy requirements in rural areas can be met using hybrid energy technologies. This study proposes a cost-effective power solution to reduce the net present cost (NPC), cost of energy (COE), unmet loads and CO2 emissions. Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) and Homer Pro are used to optimize the size of the components of the system. The combination of solar, wind and biogas with a battery storage system is cost-effective with zero unmet loads. Of the three combinations considered, the values of COE and NPC for combination-1 were 0.156 ($/kWh) and $2.05 M respectively. The comparative analysis of optimization between the GWO technique and Homer Pro carried out shows that the value of COE and NPC are reduced by 5.45% and 3.30% respectively.
‘Fractured’ Peasantry in Colonial Bihar in the Late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Centuries: Reflections and Responses
Authors: Preeti
Published: November 2023

This article is an attempt at scrutinising the rural and agrarian structure through a caste framework in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries Bihar, a period when Bihar was undergoing economic, environmental, social and political changes owing to colonial intervention. This article will highlight these everyday negotiations, forgotten struggles and exclusions that were carried on against the background of the importation of western science and technology, changing laws and encroachment on common lands. An intrinsic mechanism was used during the changing times to keep the hierarchical structure alive. Nevertheless, it led to springing up of various kisan sabhas, which aimed at voicing the opinions of the marginalised peasantry. New set of sources will capture different shades of peasant identities and a vast multitude of peasant politics that range from reformist to radical. When the oppression became unbearable, the peasants took agency and strived for collective action, mostly violent in nature. This work will bring to the fore case studies of rural ferment towards this order by low-caste and class peasants. This article will also elaborate on the reasons behind the survival of feudal relations of power juxtaposed over ‘modern’ structures.
Early versus delayed ureterolithotripsy following obstructive acute pyelonephritis treatment
Authors: Kazan Huseyin Ozgur , Cicek Muhammet , Caskurlu Hulya , Atis Ramazan Gokhan , Yildirim Asif
Published: November 2023

Background and objectives:

There is no recommendation on the timing of ureterolithotripsy after the treatment of obstructive acute pyelonephritis (APN). The effect of early and delayed ureterolithotripsy on postoperative urinary tract infection (UTI) and other complications was investigated.

Methods:

Patients who underwent ureterolithotripsy after obstructive APN treatment between February 2017 and August 2021 were divided into two groups, those operated during hospitalization and those operated within 3 months after discharge. Two groups were compared in terms of stone-free status, postoperative complications, postoperative UTI, and urosepsis rates.

Results:

Of the 91 patients included in the study, 68 were in the early ureterolithotripsy group, while 23 patients were in the delayed ureterolithotripsy group. The postoperative UTI rate was significantly higher in patients who underwent early ureterolithotripsy (29.4% vs 8.7%, p = 0.045). Patients with postoperative UTI had a higher moderate/severe perinephric fat stranding (PFS) on non-contrast CT at hospital admission (52.2% vs 29.4%, p = 0.048). Among the laboratory parameters, white blood cells were significantly higher in the group with postoperative UTI (21604.5 vs 14728.9, p = 0.042). In the multivariate analysis, early ureterolithotripsy and moderate/severe PFS were independent predictors for postoperative UTI. In the created model, the probability of postoperative UTI after ureterolitripsy after obstructive APN treatment was 3.5% in patients without risk factors, while this rate was 51.9% in patients with both risk factors.

Conclusion:

There is no consensus on the timing of stone removal after treatment of obstructive APN. Early ureterolithoripsy and moderate/severe perinephric fat stranding on non-contrast CT are risk factors for postoperative UTI.
The factor structure of Big Five personality trait measures at the between- and within-person levels
Authors: Grosz Michael P
Published: November 2023

The cross-sectional factor structure of Big Five personality trait measures is a weighted blend of the factor structure at the between-person level (i.e., the level of time-invariant interpersonal personality differences) and the factor structure at the within-person level (i.e., the level of intrapersonal personality fluctuations and changes). Thus, the Big Five might not represent the underlying factors at either of the two levels. To probe this issue, I fit multilevel exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA and CFA) models to longitudinal data from the Netherlands and Australia ( N = 15,085 and 22,582, respectively). In both data sets, the canonical Big Five emerged at the between- but not at the within-person level. At the within-person level, a two-factor structure appeared to be most suitable. Factor 1 indicated positive attitudes towards the self. Factor 2 indicated neuroticism or negative attitudes towards the self. The two factors might reflect short-term fluctuations in positive and negative affect rather than long-lasting personality changes. The findings are tentative due to methodological limitations. We need more research on the within-person factor structure of personality trait measures to clarify what fluctuations and changes they assess and whether we need to revise the way we measure and analyze trait changes.
Improvement of compatibility, thermal stability and mechanical properties of poly (phenylene oxide) (PPO) and liquid crystalline polymer (LCPA950) blends with epoxy containing acrylate rubber (ACM) as a compatibilizer
Authors: Rath Tanmoy , Seikh Asiful H , Abdo Hany S , Pramanik Nilkamal
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes a new approach for improving the compatibility of liquid crystalline polymers with engineering thermoplastics. To improve compatibility and mechanical performance of poly (phenylene oxide) (PPO)/liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) A950 blends, a third component compatibilizer is incorporated into the processing step. In this work, epoxy containing acrylate rubber (ACM) is used for the compatibilization of PPO/LCPA950 blends through the chemical reaction of epoxy functional groups of the acrylate rubber with terminated carboxylic acids or hydroxyl end groups of the two phases. The compatibilization effect on the properties of PPO/LCPA950 blends is investigated by adjusting the amount of acrylate rubber. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and melt-rheological analysis were used to study the compatibilization mechanism of acrylate rubber, and the results demonstrate that acrylate rubber is capable of reacting with PPO/LCPA950 to form a chemical bonding interface. The electron microscopic images revealed a well-compatibilized microstructure of PPO/LCPA950 blends in presence of acrylate rubber with submicron-sized liquid crystalline polymer domains in the continuous poly (phenylene oxide) matrix phase, which could not be detected for immiscible PPO/LCPA950 blend. The dynamic mechanical analysis shows that PPO/LCPA950 blend with acrylate rubber exhibit greater elastic storage moduli. It was observed that blends of PPO/LCPA950 compatible with acrylate rubber showed significant increases in tensile strength as well as notched impact strength. These blends can be used in automotive industry.
Script Adaptation: Understanding Continuity in Local Cooperation after Sector-Level Conflict over Teachers’ Working Time
Authors: Hansen Nana Wesley
Published: November 2023

This article explores the relationship between sector-level conflict and local-level cooperation. Drawing on longitudinal data on working time cooperation in the school sector collected before and after a sector-level lockout of teachers in 2013, the article argues that management and labour at the local level enter a process of cultural script adaptation when faced with radical change. The cultural script is rooted in the ritualized enactment of the collective bargaining model in Denmark. Findings also show that multiple cognitive frames coexist during change, but it is the rigidity of the ritualized interaction – that is, the script – which explains why conflict at the central sector level does not easily spread. The article also finds that the cultural script underpins and enables trust production and cooperation, while the script can adapt even during low trust.
Vibration-reducing modelling of a mecanum wheel based on equivalent stiffness and strength analysis
Authors: Yadav Pankaj S , Mohanta JC , Agrawal Vandana , Ahmed MD Faiyaz
Published: November 2023

The mecanum wheel-chair offers unparalleled manoeuverability due to its ability to move in any direction by independently rotating its wheels. However, this innovation, characterized by hub and rollers, brings along a set of challenges, including vertical vibrations induced by successive roller-ground contacts. This manuscript presents a comprehensive investigation into the dynamic features and vertical vibration characteristics of mecanum wheels. Our study focuses on understanding the impact of roller curvature on vertical vibrations. To achieve this, authors employed top-to-top and quadratic mean values of accelerations and displacements. Additionally, authors described the results of a vertical vibration simulation conducted in SolidWorks. A key element of our research involves the implementation of a spring mechanism within the mecanum wheel's centre to dampen vibrations. Through systematic experimentation and analysis, authors determined the optimal geometric arrangement for minimizing vertical vibrations. Our findings reveal a superior design approach for reducing wheel vibrations and enhancing manoeuverability. By addressing this important issue, authors contribute to the advancement of mecanum wheel technology, making it more efficient and practical for a wide range of applications. Specifically, our results demonstrate an impressive 99.98% reduction in vertical vibrations, marking a significant improvement in the mecanum wheel-chair's efficiency and enhancement in wheel efficiency.
Experiment investigation on cavitation bubble and mechanism of anti-cavitation performance in the bionic pressure relief valve
Authors: Zhang Yujia , Liu Xiumei , Li Beibei , Liu Weiwei , Ma Xuemin , Chen Hongyu
Published: November 2023

The anti-cavitation ability of the bionic pressure relief valve is investigated, the void fraction λ is employed to quantitatively analyze the gas-phase volume fraction experimentally. The results show that the void fraction is positively correlated with the gas volume fraction. The higher the void fraction, the higher the cavitation strength. Cavitation length and area with the bionic valve core are decreased significantly because of the non-smooth bionic surface. Compared with the traditional valve with a smooth surface, the maximum cavitation length of the bionic valve is reduced by 31.48%, and the maximum cavitation area is reduced by 22.75%. Furthermore, the cavitation inhibition efficiency is proposed to assess the cavitation suppression behavior of the bionic valve. The maximum cavitation inhibition efficiency varies from 63.25% to 72.66% when the flow velocity is in the extent of 42.13–52.66 L/min. Due to the non-smooth bionic surface, the flow field could be effectively perturbed to generate an anti-vortex, the cavitation suppression performance is significantly improved.
Mechanical properties and moisture diffusion in hot-pressed jute fiber composite subjected to hygrothermal ageing
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Makhatha Mamookho Elizabeth , H M Vishwanatha , Hiremath Shivashankar , Verma Bipin Bihari
Published: November 2023

Jute fiber is one of the most extensively used eco-friendly natural fibers that are hydrophilic. The performance of natural fiber-reinforced composites is affected by the diffusion of heat and moisture from the environment in addition to the exposure time. In the present investigation, the ultimate tensile strength, displacement at fracture, and energy at yield of the jute fiber-reinforced composite under different hygrothermal (temperature and relative humidity) conditions are investigated. The samples were prepared by hand lay-up technique and the laminates were hot pressed on a hydraulic press apparatus. The specimens were further exposed to a hygrothermal environment using a humidity cabinet (with an inbuilt thermometer and hygrometer) for varied intervals of time of 4, 16, and 64 h. The longitudinal tensile stress ( σ) increased at lower hot-pressing temperatures and minimum hygrothermal ageing and it decreased at a higher temperature. Upon increase in hygrothermal ageing, σ decreased at all temperatures. The energy at yield point ( E) decreased significantly at lower temperatures and minimum hygrothermal ageing while minimum changes were observed at a higher hot-pressing temperature. The diffusion of moisture as a function of time and temperature explained using Fickian law. The initial region showed nearly linear variation. With continuous hygrothermal ageing, the equilibrium, considering partial pressure, was achieved between the environment and moisture inside the sample. The microstructure of the sample processed at lower hot-pressing temperatures followed by hygrothermal ageing of 16 h showed diffusion and fiber pull-out. However, at a higher temperature, matrix cracking was also observed.
Numerical and experimental investigation of a centrifugal compressor: Prospects of polymer additive manufacturing
Authors: Zirak Nader , Nguyen Van-Thang , Deligant Michael , Shirinbayan Mohammadali , Danlos Amélie , Żywica Grzegorz , Henner Manuel , Benevides Rodrigo , Bakir Farid , Tcharkhtchi Abbas
Published: November 2023

This study numerically and experimentally investigates an optimized centrifugal compressor, fabricated by additive manufacturing technology. Additive manufacturing has attracted a lot of attention in industry and research and development studies due to its ability to fabricate parts of complex shapes with economic costs. In this regard, the compressor is designed based on iterative calculations of a 0D model in combination with loss models. The model can provide a preliminary geometry of the compressor according to the specifications. Then, the three-dimensional geometry of the compressor was optimized through the computational fluid dynamics calculation to find the best geometry and predict its performance. In addition, the structural aspect of the compressor rotor was analyzed through a numerical model. The components including the impeller and volute are fabricated by fused filament fabrication and stereolithography apparatus methods with polymers. The experimental results show the printed polymer rotor works properly at the speed of 52,000 r/min and can provide an expansion ratio of 0.66 with a maximum power of 250 W.
Numerical study on interference effects of the nacelle position on aerodynamic characteristics and nacelle intake performances
Authors: Cao Yihua , Qin Yihao , Wang Maosheng
Published: November 2023

Insight into the interference effects of the nacelle position can be used to provide some guidance for achieving better aircraft performance in the preliminary design of modern civil aircraft. This paper investigates the through-flow nacelle position effects on aircraft aerodynamic characteristics and nacelle intake performances through numerical simulation. The Common Research Model with different nacelle-pylon installation positions is analyzed and all the five nacelle installation parameters, including spanwise position, penetration, gully depth, pitch angle, and toe angle, are systematically studied. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons between different configurations are conducted and the sensitivity of drag, lift distribution, total pressure recovery, and airflow distortion to nacelle position is obtained. The mechanism of interference effects is also explored. These derived insights can provide some guidance for determining the nacelle position and reduce the cost of subsequent wind tunnel test.
The development and engineering practice of building cable structures in China
Authors: Chen Zhihua
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces the development process of building cable structures in China over the past 70 years according to three stages: the initial, slow, and rapid development. It also summarizes the types of cable components and joints of building cable structures. The structural characteristics and representative projects of suspension, cable membrane, beam string (cable-supported), and cable dome structures are reviewed in this paper. Finally, the achievements and prospects of cable structures in China are discussed.
Is Accruals Management Constrained by Institutional Investment Size or Persistence? Indian Market Evidence
Authors: Potharla Srikanth
Published: November 2023

This article examines the relationship between institutional investment stability and the reliability of financial reporting. The sample consists of all publicly traded firms on the Indian market from 2013 to 2021. The size of Institutional investment and its stability are used to regress discretionary accruals. The article also investigates whether the scale of institutional investment, its long-term stability, or both contribute to effective monitoring that limits discretionary accruals. The findings indicate that the persistence of institutional investment and large-scale investment significantly restrict discretionary accruals. This indicates that large institutional investments and their stability improve the quality of financial reporting. However, the monitoring is ineffective when the size of institutional investment is small and/or the persistence of institutional investment is low. Institutional investors can effectively monitor large-scale investments and the persistence of their investments. In the context of promoters pledging shares, neither the size of institutional investment nor its persistence can reduce discretionary accruals. This indicates increased pressure on managers to adopt earnings management when promoters’ shares are pledged. The results also demonstrate that operating assets, operating cycle, and leverage provide more opportunities for earnings management. Conversely, firm size is negatively associated with discretionary accruals. This article is the first to examine the impact of institutional investment stability on accrual management. It offers valuable insights into evaluating corporate reporting quality dynamics, considering the evolving role of institutional investors in the corporate governance of their investee firms.
Corporate Sustainability Practices: A Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Sabirali K. P. , Mahalakshmi S.
Published: November 2023

Corporates are the major users of environmental and human resources for production and related processes. While wealth maximization was prioritised in the past, international organizations and governments now advocate for sustainable practices to protect the ecosystem and vulnerable communities. This article analyses corporate sustainability research to find the literature gap for future researchers. A bibliometric analysis cum systematic literature review was conducted on 116 articles selected from the Scopus database. Corporate sustainability research has gained popularity since 2015, and most studies were undertaken in developed countries. The stakeholder theory is widely used in these studies. The content analysis helped identify themes like determinants of sustainability, relationship between sustainability and firm performance, and sustainability compliance levels. Future studies may assess the impacts of sustainability on factors other than financial performance, such as earnings management, cost of capital, and market risk, and non-financial aspects, such as employee performance and customer relations. Areas like corporate sustainability auditing and assurance offer promising avenues for future exploration. Policy-makers are urged to raise awareness about sustainability among companies and stakeholders to achieve sustainable development.
Exploring Sustainable Finance: A Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Sisodia Anjali , Maheshwari Girish Chandra
Published: November 2023

The sustainable finance study is considered as an important study under the 2030 agenda for achieving sustainable development goals. It is assumed to include an investment decision-making process by directing capital towards sustainable investment and monitoring climate change under its core agendas. The study on sustainable finance is much diversified. There is no definition of sustainable finance which is applicable universally. The governments, financial institutions and several international organizations have considered framing a definition according to their approach and applicability. This article reviews the study conducted on the topic ‘sustainable finance’ to answer the question related to the meaning of sustainable finance and the areas covered under it. The study aims to explore the vast database of Scopus and Web of Science for the specified duration of 2002–22. The study tries to close the gap present in a diversification and interpretation of sustainable finance meaning, and it further draws the attention of the people concerned globally towards this less explored subject under the sustainability goal. There is abundant research undertaken in the various areas related to sustainability but very little in sustainable finance. The subject is majorly understood under the corporate governance spectrum despite having its relation with many other factors and also its individual impact on the industry growth, thus demanding a thorough review of the topic.
A survey and biomechanical analysis of the feasibility of the thumb test for determining the cancellous bone quality for stemless shoulder prosthesis
Authors: Hatta Taku , Shinagawa Kiyotsugu , Kawakami Jun , Kanazawa Kenji , Hayakawa Takashi , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Yamakado Kotaro
Published: November 2023

Background

The effect of the thumb test for assessing the cancellous bone quality at the resection plane of the proximal humerus on determining the application of a stemless shoulder prosthesis remains unclear. This study was conducted to survey the current utilization of the thumb test among surgeons and to investigate biomechanical features of the thumb test.

Method

A survey among shoulder surgeons who had experience with stemless prostheses was conducted to investigate the current utilization of preoperative assessments and intraoperative thumb test when applying stemless prosthesis. Biomechanical experiments for the thumb test using artificial bone models were performed to assess the compression force, contact pressure and area. According to the preliminary survey, three compression techniques were assessed: compression perpendicular to the surface with thumb pad (P-pad technique) or tip of the thumb (P-tip technique), or compression in the vertical direction simulating compression along the longitudinal axis of the humeral shaft with tip-pad of the thumb (H-axis technique). The contact area was separated into three subregions (proximal, middle and distal) to assess the distribution of contact pressure.

Results

Among 38 surgeons, 66% utilized the thumb test intraoperatively. The P-pad technique was more frequently applied than the P-tip or H-axis techniques (80%, 4% and 16%, respectively). Although with wide variation among the examiners, biomechanical assessments revealed the P-pad technique showed larger contact area and less compression force than the P-tip technique. The P-pad technique provided no significant localized differences in the mean contact pressure on the compressed plane, whereas the P-tip and H-axis techniques showed significant differences among subregions.

Conclusion

This survey demonstrated relatively frequent application of the thumb test on applying the stemless shoulder prosthesis. Biomechanical assessment revealed the thumb test can hinder objective reproducibility among examiners; therefore, further investigations to identify feasible assessments of the bone quality is required.
Bridging the gap between corporate sustainability due diligence and EU public procurement
Authors: Treviño-Lozano Laura , Uysal Ezgi
Published: November 2023

The link between human rights and environmental due diligence and public procurement has been recognized in soft law, and in a less consistent way in EU hard law. Particularly, it has been an issue of concern in the law-making process for the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. Despite increasing attention, considerable debate remains over the inclusion of human rights and environmental due diligence in public procurement, which is still an underdeveloped topic. This article contributes to enlightening the debate and filling this gap by exploring the link between human rights and environmental due diligence and public procurement, then by analysing whether and how human rights and environmental due diligence can be incorporated into EU public procurement as a contract performance condition and comply with the requirement of the link to the subject matter of the contract.
The European Investor State has no clothes. Generic promises and local weaknesses of green public subsidies in France
Authors: Ducastel Antoine , Rivière Camille , Ferlazzo Edoardo
Published: November 2023

This article concentrates on the funding of green transition policies implemented in France during the 2010s. Instead of examining the emerging European Investor State through its “new” public investment policies, such as loans, equity, investment banks, and funds, this article examines the transformations of “older” public investment policies, specifically investment subsidies. We contend that the European Investor State is currently marked by a paradox: while public resources for investment, particularly for green transition investments, are increasing, the means to distribute these resources are diminishing. Austerity measures and new public management policies are undermining territorial administrations, thereby limiting their ability to accurately identify and support beneficiaries. This bureaucratic weakness within the European Investor State significantly affects the effective distribution of subsidies, because they tend to be increasingly concentrated among larger communities and companies, as well as a broad spectrum of private intermediaries. Consequently, the European Investor State appears multifaceted and occasionally contradictory, lacking long-term continuity.
Effects of TLD on suppressing the dynamic responses of a multilayer structure
Authors: Dou Peng , Xu Xiaosen , Wang Zhidong , Xing Yihan
Published: November 2023

Two different Tuned liquid dampers (TLDs) were installed on the floors of a three-floor structure. The TLD natural frequencies were tuned to the first two resonance frequencies of the structure, and its base was subjected to harmonic excitation. The excitation frequency of the sweep tests ranged from 0.8 to 3.2 Hz, and the mass ratio for all the simulations was constant and equalled 2%. The FVM/FEM method was used to solve the fluid-structure coupling, and the maximum displacement of the three floors were obtained. The dissipated energy by damping force was used to study the coupling mechanism of TLD and multilayer structure. Findings indicated that the scheme of the multiple-TLD design was stable and effective, which ensured that the structure-TLD system under the same mass ratio had no local adverse effects. The proportion of positive work time of tank hydrodynamic force is the intuitive embodiment of TLD damping performance. The frequency doubling effect generated by the sloshing nonlinearity in TLD has been confirmed for use in the vibration control of higher-order modes of structures. On the premise of constant mass ratio, it is suggested to adopt a multi-TLD damping system, in which each damper is installed at the height of the maximum displacement of each structural mode.
Fostering Artificial Intelligence to Face Misinformation: Discourses and Practices of Automated Fact-Checking in Brazil
Authors: Lelo Thales
Published: November 2023

This article examines the advancement of automated fact-checking in Brazil and investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) products shape publishers’ discourses and practices. First, it maps the field to identify how it has evolved throughout the years. Next, it draws on 30 official statements published by journalists and their tech partners, and seven semi-structured interviews with representatives from five websites. This article shows an emerging automation landscape in the Brazilian fact-checking venture supported by the tech industry. Nonetheless, AI has challenged fact-checkers’ authority and increased the technologists’ influence over journalism.
“Bet You Can’t Wait to Get Out”: Complicating Narratives of Leaving in Rural Young Adult Literature
Authors: Parton Chea , Kuehl Rachelle
Published: November 2023

Using critical theories of dominant- and counter-narratives, this study analyzed the texts of selected young adult books that focused on an underrepresented population of working-class rural youth in Appalachia. We explored how the dominant deficit narratives of these communities shaped the identity construction and choices of the books’ characters, especially their decisions to stay in, leave, or return to their rural hometowns. We showed how those narratives reflected the lives and decisions of real rural young people. We also looked at the identities and ways of being that are available to rural young adult readers and how those identities are connected to structural power and inequity. With over nine million rural students in the United States, each of them deserves to see themselves reflected in the literature they read.
Recruitment Methods, Inclusion, and Successful Participation in a Longitudinal Clinical Trial Using Ecological Momentary Assessment
Authors: Porticella Norman , Cannon Julie S. , Wu Chung Li , Ferguson Stuart G. , Thrasher James F. , Hackworth Emily E. , Niederdeppe Jeff
Published: November 2023

Underrepresentation of historically marginalized populations in clinical trials continues to threaten the validity of health intervention research. Evidence supports the merits of intercept and other proactive forms of recruitment for achieving more equitable representation. However, researchers also report lower retention and adherence to protocols among these populations, particularly in longitudinal studies. Few studies have compared recruitment methods for longitudinal randomized trials testing health interventions, with even fewer having done so for trials involving ecological momentary assessment (EMA). As intervention research integrates EMA and other data collection approaches requiring substantial participant effort, it is critical to better understand the effectiveness and implications of strategies to improve the representativeness of health research. This secondary data analysis compared outcomes of proactive and reactive recruitment strategies (mobile lab intercepts and internet/flyer advertising, respectively) in study inclusion, task completion, and retention within a 14-day randomized controlled trial that used EMA to evaluate cigarette package health messages. Proactive recruitment resulted in higher proportions of participants with low income and education, limited health literacy, and of diverse racial/ethnic makeup. However, this recruitment method also resulted in lower task completion, especially in the second week of the trial period, and lower retention, although group differences were not explained by participant sociodemographic characteristics targeted by inclusion efforts. We conclude that proactive recruitment via intercepts is an effective strategy for health intervention research that aims to include stakeholders from historically marginalized groups but that researchers and funders must recognize these methods require additional resources, considerations, and capacity to address non-trivial challenges to successful participation.
Designing a Deep Learning-Driven Resource-Efficient Diagnostic System for Metastatic Breast Cancer: Reducing Long Delays of Clinical Diagnosis and Improving Patient Survival in Developing Countries
Authors: Gao William , Wang Dayong , Huang Yi
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. Breast cancer patients in developing countries, especially sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and South America, suffer from the highest mortality rate in the world. One crucial factor contributing to the global disparity in mortality rate is long delay of diagnosis due to a severe shortage of trained pathologists, which consequently has led to a large proportion of late-stage presentation at diagnosis. To tackle this critical healthcare disparity, we have developed a deep learning-based diagnosis system for metastatic breast cancer that can achieve high diagnostic accuracy as well as computational efficiency and mobile readiness suitable for an under-resourced environment. We evaluated 4 Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architectures: MobileNetV2, VGG16, ResNet50 and ResNet101. The MobileNetV2-based diagnostic model outperformed the more complex VGG16, ResNet50 and ResNet101 models in diagnostic accuracy, model generalization, and model training efficiency. The ROC AUC of MobilenetV2 (0.933, 95% CI: 0.930, 0.936) was higher than VGG16 (0.911, 95% CI: 0.908, 0.915), ResNet50 (0.869, 95% CI: 0.866, 0.873), and ResNet101 (0.873, 95% CI: 0.869, 0.876). The time per inference step for the MobileNetV2 model (15 ms/step) was substantially lower than that of VGG16 (48 ms/step), ResNet50 (37 ms/step), and ResNet110 (56 ms/step). The visual comparisons between the model prediction and ground truth have demonstrated that the MobileNetV2 diagnostic models can identify very small cancerous nodes embedded in a large area of normal cells which is challenging for manual image analysis. Equally Important, the light weight MobleNetV2 models were computationally efficient and ready for mobile devices or devices of low computational power. These advances empower the development of a resource-efficient and high performing AI-based metastatic breast cancer diagnostic system that can adapt to under-resourced healthcare facilities in developing countries.