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Empowerment Avenue, led by Rahsaan "New York" Thomas and Emily Nonko, connects incarcerated writers and artists with external publications and galleries, providing them with fair compensation for their work. This initiative aims to combat the sense of exclusion experienced by many in prison and offers a platform for incarcerated individuals to share their stories with the outside world. Through their efforts, prison journalism has flourished, with incarcerated writers gaining recognition and opportunities in mainstream media outlets. The collective's work is seen as a form of advocacy and a means of challenging the established narrative that prisoners are only subjects, not authors of their own experiences. [Extracted from the article]

The Physics For You journal offers a JEE Main Practice Paper for 2025, containing questions on various physics topics such as parallel batteries, solenoids, friction, and electric fields. Solutions and explanations are provided to assist physics students in exam preparation. The document also includes discussions on vibrating pipes, torque on conductor rods, and calculations involving mass and velocity. A word unscramble activity related to physics terms and a motivational quote by Thomas A. Edison are included, along with an invitation for reader participation in a response submission activity for the next issue. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the legacy of Burt Bacharach, chronicling his extraordinary career as a pop songwriter, the donation of his papers to the Library of Congress, and his lasting impact on music.

The article discusses the U.S. Army's progress and challenges in modernizing its fires capability for large-scale combat operations. Topics include the Army's advancement in long-range precision fires and the need for better integration and synchronization of new technologies like the Precision Strike Missile. The article also highlights the difficulties in managing the high demand for new systems and personnel, such as air and missile defense soldiers.

California recently closed a loophole that allowed thicker plastic bags to replace single-use plastic bags at grocery stores, despite a previous ban on the latter. The new legislation mandates the use of paper bags for shoppers who do not bring reusable bags, aiming to reduce plastic waste in the environment. The move was prompted by a 46 percent increase in plastic bag waste since the original ban in 2014, with an estimated 2 billion plastic shopping bags distributed in California annually. The law will take effect in 2026, requiring shoppers to bring reusable bags or purchase paper bags with at least 50 percent recycled content. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: This paper considers carbon abatement in a competitive supply chain that is composed of a manufacturer and two retailers under vertical shareholding. The authors emphasize the equilibrium decision problem of stakeholders under vertical shareholding and different power structures. Design/methodology/approach: A game-theoretic approach was used to probe the influence of power structure and retailer competition on manufacturers' carbon abatement under vertical shareholding. The carbon abatement decisions, environmental imp4cacts (EIs) and social welfare (SW) of different scenarios under vertical shareholding are obtained. Findings: The findings show that manufacturers are preferable to carbon abatement and capture optimal profits when shareholding is above a threshold under the retailer power equilibrium, but they may exert a worse negative impact on the environment. The dominant position of the held retailer is not always favorable to capturing the optimal SW and mitigating EIs. In addition, under the combined effect of competition level and shareholding, retailer power equilibrium scenarios are more favorable to improving SW and reducing EIs. Originality/value: This paper inspects the combined influence of retailer competition and power structure on manufacturers' carbon abatement. Distinguishing from previous literature, the authors also consider the impact of vertical shareholding and consumer preferences. In addition, the authors analyze the SW and EIs in different scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"A Nation's Paper: The Globe and Mail in the Life of Canada" explores the history and impact of The Globe and Mail, a prominent Canadian newspaper. The book delves into the newspaper's role in shaping Canada's development, from Confederation to contemporary issues like Indigenous rights and gender equality. Through a collection of concise essays, the book offers insights into the newspaper's influence on Canadian society and politics, making it a valuable read for those interested in Canadian history and media. [Extracted from the article]

Self-sustained locomotion, as a potent tool for tackling intricate problems and navigating diverse challenges, has made notable strides across various disciplines such as bionics, soft robotics, and energy harvesters, owing to its efficiency, resourcefulness, and flexibility. Nonetheless, single-mode self-sustained motion in varied environments is typically tailored to specific task requirements and lacks adaptability to environmental shifts. To address these limitations, this study aims to develop a multi-modal self-sustained system, in which, a silicone oil disc is placed on a surface with hot steam. Driven by the hot steam, the silicone oil disc can self-oscillate or self-tumble continuously on the supporting surface. Furthermore, we established a thermo-mechanical coupling model to predict the transitions among self-oscillation, self-tumbling, and static modes. Theoretical findings reveal that the frequency of the self-oscillation increases with an increase in temperature and radius. The theoretical predictions align well with experimental results. The silicone oil disc utilizes a suitable temperature field to achieve programmable deformation and exhibits multi-modal self-sustained motions, with the potential to harness geothermal and industrial waste heat, making it a versatile, cost-effective, and energy-efficient solution for autonomous robotics, thermal-mechanical conversion, and waste heat recovery. • A novel silicone oil paper disc exhibiting multi-modal self-sustained motion driven by hot steam is developed. • Three motion modes of static, self-oscillation and self-tumbling are involved. • A phase diagram is obtained to predict the conditions for transitions between the three motion modes. • The frequencies of self-sustained motions can be controlled by multiple factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article from Good Housekeeping provides quick and easy hair fixes for various situations, such as windblown hair, unraveled curls, and staticky strands. Tips from hair experts include using hand cream to smooth down puffy hair, tying up hair in a bun to prevent tangling, and spritzing hairspray on a comb to manage flyaways. Additionally, the article features recommendations for travel hairdryers, highlighting models that offer fast drying speeds and smooth results. [Extracted from the article]

This paper discusses recent advancements in Ramsey theory, focusing on breakthrough work by Sam Mattheus, a postdoctoral researcher at Vrije University in Brussels and Jacques Verstraete, a professor of mathematics at the University of California at San Diego, in determining bounds for off-diagonal Ramsey numbers, specifically 𝑟 ( 4 , 𝑡 ) r(4,t). Utilizing a novel combination of pseudorandom graph structures and finite geometry, their approach has resolved longstanding challenges and spurred new collaborations across mathematical fields, including coding theory and algebraic geometry. These developments underscore the potential of Ramsey theory to drive innovation in mathematics and theoretical computer science, offering new tools and techniques with broad implications for combinatorics and complexity theory.

Trump signed an Executive Order to end the use of paper straws. Here's what to know about the history of plastic straws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"We Carry Smoke and Paper" by Melody S. Gee explores the author's journey of conversion to Catholicism as an adult and her experiences as the adopted daughter of Chinese immigrants. Gee's essays reflect on language, silence, immigration, adoption, and faith, highlighting themes of loss and hope for belonging. The book invites readers to embrace faith with hunger and hope, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives in shaping one's spiritual journey. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: Underpinned by affective events theory (AET), this paper examines the effect of coworker friendship on coworker incivility in family-style restaurants. Furthermore, this paper seeks the mediation effect of positive workplace gossip. Design/methodology/approach: Using a time-lagged approach, 83 headwaiters and 326 servers at family-style restaurants located in Port Said and Ismailia responded, and their responses were analyzed using AMOS v. 24. Findings: Multigroup analysis findings proved that coworker friendship increased positive workplace gossip in favor of the server sample. At the same time, the latter decreased coworker incivility in favor of the headwaiter sample. Besides, positive workplace gossip partially mediated the coworker friendship–incivility association in favor of the server sample. Furthermore, incivility levels increase between married coworkers and their peers in favor of the server sample. Originality/value: From the AET lens, this paper offers valuable insights into affective and emotional reactions to closest coworkers' judgmental behavior in the restaurant industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Grey System Theory (GST) is an emerging area of research within artificial intelligence. Since its founding in 1982, it has seen a lot of multidisciplinary applications. In just a short period, it has garnered some considerable strengths. Based on the 1987–2021 data collected from the Web of Science (WoS), the current study reports the advancement of the GST. Design/methodology/approach: Research papers utilizing the GST in the fields of economics and education were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS) platform using a set of predetermined keywords. In the final stage of the process, the papers that underwent analysis were manually chosen, with selection criteria based on the information presented in the titles and abstracts. Findings: The study identifies prominent authors, institutions, publications and journals closely associated with the subject. In terms of authors, two major clusters are identified around Liu SF and Wang ZX, while the institution with the highest number of publications is Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Moreover, significant keywords, trends and research directions have been extracted and analyzed. Additionally, the study highlights the regions where the theory holds substantial influence. Research limitations/implications: The study is subject to certain limitations stemming from factors such as the language employed in the chosen literature, the papers included within the Web of Science (WoS) database, the designation of works categorized as "articles" in the database, the specific selection of keywords and keyword combinations, and the meticulous manual process employed for paper selection. While the manual selection process itself is not inherently limiting, it demands a greater investment of time and meticulous attention, contributing to the overall limitations of the study. Practical implications: The significance of the study extends not only to scholars and practitioners but also to readers who observe the development of emerging scientific disciplines. Originality/value: The analysis of trends revealed a growing emphasis on the application of GST in diverse domains, including supply chain management, manufacturing and economic development. Notably, the emergence of COVID-19 as a new research focal point among GST scholars is evident. The heightened interest in COVID-19 can be attributed to its global impact across various academic disciplines. However, it is improbable that this interest will persist in the long term, as the pandemic is gradually brought under control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to highlight the effect of mobile commerce (m-commerce) ubiquity on usage behavior as well as the mediator mechanism of brand trust between ubiquity and usage behavior. To extend the findings, this research also examines the moderator role of product reputation on the nexus between brand trust and usage behavior in the m-commerce context. Design/methodology/approach: Given the quantitative approach, the authors gathered 1,565 valid responses from m-commerce app users. Data were analyzed in SmartPLS 4. Findings: Ubiquity positively impacted brand trust, and the latter positively influenced m-commerce usage behavior. Brand trust also partially mediated the effect of m-commerce ubiquity on usage behavior, along with product reputation moderating the positive effect of brand trust on usage behavior. Originality/value: By combining resource-based theory with signaling theory in the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) framework, this paper's novelty focuses on the investigation of m-commerce ubiquity, brand trust as a mediating mechanism and product reputation as a moderator in explaining usage behavior in the m-commerce context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to study the interplay between a risk-averse national brand manufacturer's (NBM) selling mode decision and a risk-neutral e-platform's private brand (PB) introduction decision. Design/methodology/approach: A game theory model is used to solve selling mode decision, that is whether transform the selling mode from the wholesale mode to the marketplace mode, and PB introduction decision, that is, whether introduce the PB. Findings: The results show that for the NBM, under certain condition, the NBM's selling mode decision is not affected by the e-platform's PB introduction decision. High revenue-sharing rate is conducive only when the difference in consumer preference between the PB and the national brand (NB) is small. The NBM's risk aversion will improve the applicability of the marketplace mode. For the e-platform, high PB preference of consumers and risk-averse behavior of the NBM is not conducive to PB introduction. For the supply chain, scenarios that the NB monopolizes the market under the wholesale mode and PB introduction under the marketplace mode should be prevented. PB introduction under the wholesale mode will become the only equilibrium with the increase of risk aversion of the NBM. Finally, the authors extend the scenario that consumers prefer the PB and the e-platform is risk-averse enterprise and find that PB introduction under the wholesale mode is detrimental to the NBM but beneficial to the supply chain. The impact of consumers' PB preference on the e-platform's PB introduction is opposite to the basic model. The impact of the e-platform's risk aversion on game equilibrium is opposite to that of the NBM's risk aversion. Originality/value: This paper is first to study selling mode decision and PB introduction decision when considering enterprises' risk-averse attitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Influenced by the constantly changing manufacturing environment, no single dispatching rule (SDR) can consistently obtain better scheduling results than other rules for the dynamic job-shop scheduling problem (DJSP). Although the dynamic SDR selection classifier (DSSC) mined by traditional data-mining-based scheduling method has shown some improvement in comparison to an SDR, the enhancement is not significant since the rule selected by DSSC is still an SDR. Design/methodology/approach: This paper presents a novel data-mining-based scheduling method for the DJSP with machine failure aiming at minimizing the makespan. Firstly, a scheduling priority relation model (SPRM) is constructed to determine the appropriate priority relation between two operations based on the production system state and the difference between their priority values calculated using multiple SDRs. Subsequently, a training sample acquisition mechanism based on the optimal scheduling schemes is proposed to acquire training samples for the SPRM. Furthermore, feature selection and machine learning are conducted using the genetic algorithm and extreme learning machine to mine the SPRM. Findings: Results from numerical experiments demonstrate that the SPRM, mined by the proposed method, not only achieves better scheduling results in most manufacturing environments but also maintains a higher level of stability in diverse manufacturing environments than an SDR and the DSSC. Originality/value: This paper constructs a SPRM and mines it based on data mining technologies to obtain better results than an SDR and the DSSC in various manufacturing environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Within the context of an open innovation business environment, the frequent interaction and coordination activities among heterogeneous partners have a significant impact on enterprises' business model. Nevertheless, fewer empirical research has been made to explore how to match external partners and update organizational dynamic capabilities at an ecosystem level. Therefore, this paper attempts not only to investigate the direct impact of partner match on different business model innovation (BMI) themes (efficiency-centered BMI and novelty-centered BMI) but only to shed light on the pivotal mediating role of interfirm dynamic capabilities. Design/methodology/approach: This paper utilized the methodology of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to investigate the impact of diverse partner selection criteria and interfirm dynamic capabilities on two distinctive themes of BMI. More than 20 industry clusters with multiple industries were selected as representatives of the creative ecosystem, predominantly from the Yangtze River Delta region. Valid data were collected from 254 managers by both online questionnaires and offline interviews. Findings: The findings of the study show that different partner match criteria have distinct direct impacts on BMI themes. Partner complementary and partner synergy, deriving from the "task-related criteria", are significantly correlated with both EBMI and NBMI. Conversely, partner compatibility, deriving from "Partnering-related Criteria", shows a positive correlation with EBMI but not NBMI. Furthermore, compare the indirect effect on EBMI, the paper' results demonstrate interfirm dynamic capabilities as mediator can more maximize external benefits to promote NBMI. Practical implications: The study findings effectively help enterprises implement different BMI themes. From a management perspective, whether pursuing EBMI or NBMI, enterprises should consciously seek partners who can provide complementary support or share mutual goals across diverse industries. This strategic approach can significantly enhance the opportunities for sustainable and innovative business development. Furthermore, to successfully accomplish NBMI, enterprises must cultivate interfirm dynamic capabilities encompassing a comprehensive range of cross-organizational innovation capacities, such as bolstering organizational learning capability, establishing interactive network platforms to enhance coordination capabilities and engaging in integrative activities to foster a collective mindset. Originality/value: This paper contributes to the match theory by introducing three critical matching criteria, enabling enterprises to discern partners based on diverse organizational characteristics. Additionally, this paper broadens the scope of the dynamic capability literature by adopting a network perspective to strengthen interaction and relationship mechanisms. The authors primarily elucidate the concept of interfirm dynamic capabilities as a formative higher-order model formed by three sub-capabilities (absorptive capacity, coordination capability and collective mind). Finally, this paper combines matching theory with dynamic capacity theory to the field of BMI, which adds depth and complexity to the existing ecosystem innovation research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Compared with the time-consuming numerical method and the complex lumped parameter thermal network method to solve the steady-state heat distribution of the permanent magnet (PM) linear motor, there is no analytical method based on the thermal partial differential equations. This paper aims to propose a two-dimensional (2-D) analytical model for predicting the steady-state temperature distribution of PM linear motors to improve the prediction accuracy and speed up the calculation. Design/methodology/approach: Based on the complex Fourier series theory and Cauchy's product theorem, this paper presents for the first time a general analytical solution for 2-D temperature field in Cartesian coordinates. Then, by combining the electromagnetic field finite element model (FEM), the copper loss, iron loss and PM eddy current loss are used as the heat sources of the thermal analytical model. Finally, the solution to the temperature field is obtained by solving the system equations under boundary and interface conditions. Findings: The analytical results are in good agreement with those from the thermal FEM, and the calculation speed is significantly faster than that of the thermal FEM. Originality/value: The multilayer model proposed in this paper can consider heat conduction, convection and radiation. It is not only suitable for PM linear motors but also has significant application value for the thermal analysis of electromagnetic devices modeled in 2-D Cartesian coordinates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate and analyze the air-gap field modulation (AGFM) effect on torque contribution in a 6-slot/4-pole high-speed permanent magnet (HSPM) machine. To further illustrate the torque generation mechanism, the torque contribution is quantified using the Maxwell stress tensor (MST) method. Design/methodology/approach: First, a simplified permanent magnet (PM) magnetomotive force model is established to identify the effective main-order working field harmonics. Then, the MST method is used to determine the average torque contributions of the effective main-order working field harmonics. Finally, the influences of various stator and rotor parameters on the AGFM effect are analyzed and optimized to enhance the torque density. Findings: Apart from the fundamental harmonics, the AGFM harmonics contribute non-negligible average torque on the HSPM machine, and the optimized machine has higher torque density. Finally, a prototype of the 10 kW HSPM machine is manufactured and experimented with to validate the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis. Originality/value: In this paper, the torque generation mechanism of the HSPM machine is investigated and analyzed. Meanwhile, the AGFM effect of the HSPM machine with different design parameters is analyzed and optimized to enhance the torque density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore how fractional derivatives affect the transient and steady-state behaviour of nonlinear transmission lines. This problem is of significance for high-frequency design of systems such as high-speed sampling systems and radar systems. Design/methodology/approach: This paper shall consider the transient and steady-state responses of nonlinear transmission lines when fractional derivatives are considered. A lumped-parameter model is considered and the product-integration implicit trapezoidal rule shall be used for simulations. Findings: The important observation is that small deviations of the order of the derivative from an integer order can have a significant effect on the transient and steady-state behaviour. This includes a change in the speed of the wave on the transmission line and on its damping. Originality/value: The work is novel as it uses a lumped-parameter model with nonlinear capacitors and explores the effect on the dynamical behaviour when fractional derivatives are present. This is in contrast to the typical approach of using a partial differential equation derived under certain assumptions such as the nature of the nonlinear capacitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Power transformers are vital components of an electrical network. A defective transformer can cause instability and blackouts in parts of the network. An accurate classification of different transformer faults results in a relatively accurate fault diagnosis and timely corrective actions. It is possible to increase productivity and reduce costs by using fault detection of power transformers through the analysis of gases dissolved in oil. The proposed technique is a suitable tool to help the utilities and engineers in charge of preventive maintenance by reducing the costs of different fault diagnosis tests for power transformers. Design/methodology/approach: In this paper, the IEC 60599 standard along with clustering and classification methods are used to classify power transformer's fault types. K-means and Fuzzy C-means clustering methods are used for clustering, and the support vector machine (SVM) method is used for classification of different types of faults in ‎power ‎transformers. The performance of K-means and SVM methods is improved by using the Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (GOA). The efficiency of the proposed methods is evaluated using real field data of power transformers. The purpose of this study is to propose hybrid methods including K-means-GOA clustering and SVM-GOA classification for accurate fault diagnosis. These methods have been used for the first time in fault diagnosis determination of power transformers through gas analysis. The Silhouette criteria is used in this paper to compare the efficiency of different clustering methods. Findings: Simulation results of the paper are based on the gas chromatography data related to 266 different real power transformers. They show the high accuracy and high-performance speed of intelligent clustering and classification methods compared to conventional ones. This analysis would be helpful in performing the required maintenance check and plan for repairs. Originality/value: The applicability and efficiency of the proposed hybrid K-means-GOA and SVM-GOA models are verified for transformer fault detection using the experimental diverse data set including 266 set of real field test parameters of power transformers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present the performance requirements for the all-electric high lift motors and the inductance calculation process for the fractional slot concentrated winding. Design/methodology/approach: This paper presents the research work related to all-electric aircraft high lift motors and the inductance calculation process of fractional slot concentrated winding. Firstly, this paper introduces the performance requirements for the high lift motor and summarizes the general process for calculating the inductance in fractional slot motors. Secondly, the analytical model of winding armature total inductance is obtained by the winding function method. Thirdly, a straightforward calculation method is employed for determining the total slot leakage inductance. Finally, the accuracy of the inductance calculation and controllability of the motor are confirmed through finite element model and motor control strategies. Findings: In the fractional slot concentrated winding, the armature total inductance is equal to the armature self-inductance plus the armature mutual inductance. The slot leakage inductance is divided into the slot leakage self-inductance and the slot leakage mutual inductance. This allows inductance to be obtained quickly without finite element model. Originality/value: This paper provides the inductance results of analytical and finite element simulation; the control strategy is employed to verify the conformity of the design requirements and control performance under the rated conditions. The implementation of double verification assures the practicality and effectiveness of the high lift motor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan, mostly an arid and semi-arid geographic area, paradoxically harbours significant surface and groundwater resources vital for its sustenance. The nation heavily relies on the intricate network of the Indus River system, one of the largest contiguous irrigation networks globally. Despite this, Pakistan faces mounting pressure on its water resources. Hence, this paper delves into the multifaceted factors influencing Pakistan's water availability, categorizing them into internal and external determinants. The internal factors pertain to elements within the nation's borders, while the external factors transcend its sovereign control. The research underscores the imperative for Pakistan to prioritize addressing internal factors that predominantly impact its water resources. Moreover, a growing realization suggests the need for Pakistan to steer away from securitizing water resources. Such an approach complicates fostering amicable relations with its upper riparian neighbours, crucial for collectively addressing challenges such as climate change. Striving for co-operation rather than confrontation is pivotal for navigating these shared challenges sustainably. Finally, the paper concludes that adopting a desecuritized approach towards water resources, coupled with a nuanced focus on internal factors, presents a promising strategy for mitigating water-related concerns in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to explore dual solutions for the flow of a hybrid nanofluid over a permeable melting stretching/shrinking sheet with nanoparticle shape factor, second-order velocity slip conditions and viscous dissipation. The hybrid nanofluid is formulated by dispersing alumina (Al2O3) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles into water (H2O). Design/methodology/approach: The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) are first reduced to a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using a mathematical method of similarity transformation technique. These ODEs are then numerically solved through MATLAB's bvp4c solver. Findings: Key parameters such as slip parameter, melting parameter, suction parameter, shrinking parameter and Eckert number are examined. The results reveal the existence of two distinct solutions (upper and lower branches) for the transformed ODEs when considering the shrinking parameter. Increasing value of Cu-volume fraction and the second-order velocity slip enhances boundary layer thicknesses, whereas the heat transfer rate diminishes with rising melting and suction parameters. These numerical results are illustrated through various figures and tables. Additionally, a stability analysis is performed and confirms the upper branch is stable and practical, while the lower branch is unstable. Practical implications: The analysis of hybrid nanofluid flow over a shrinking surface has practical significance with applications in processes such as solar thermal management systems, automotive cooling systems, sedimentation, microelectronic cooling or centrifugal separation of particles. Both steady and unsteady hybrid nanofluid flows are relevant in these contexts. Originality/value: While the study of hybrid nanofluid flow is well-documented, research focusing on the shrinking flow case with specific parameters in our study is still relatively scarce. This paper contributes to obtaining dual solutions specifically for the shrinking case, which has been less frequently addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper is concerned with the study of the propagation of Rayleigh waves in a homogeneous isotropic, generalized thermoelastic medium with mass diffusion and double porosity structure using the theoretical framework of three-phase-lag model of thermoelasticity. Design/methodology/approach: Using Eringen's nonlocal elasticity theory and normal mode analysis technique, this paper solves the problem. The medium is subjected to isothermal, thermally insulated stress-free, and chemical potential boundary conditions. Findings: The frequency equation of Rayleigh waves for isothermal and thermally insulated surfaces is derived. Propagation speed, attenuation coefficient, penetration depth and specific loss of the Rayleigh waves are computed numerically. The impact of nonlocal, void and diffusion parameters on different physical characteristics of Rayleigh waves like propagation speed, attenuation coefficient, penetration depth and specific loss with respect to wave number for isothermal and thermally insulated surfaces is depicted graphically. Originality/value: Some limiting and particular cases are also deduced from the present investigation and compared with the existing literature. During Rayleigh wave propagation, the path of the surface particle is found to be elliptical. This study can be extended to fields like earthquake engineering, geophysics and the degradation of old building materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Aerodynamics plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance of race cars. Due to the low ride height, the aerodynamic components of race cars are affected by ground effects. The changes in pitch and roll attitudes during the car's movement impact its ride height. This study aims to analyze the aerodynamic characteristics of race cars under specific pitch and roll attitudes to understand the underlying aerodynamic mechanisms. This paper focuses on the aerodynamic characteristics of racing cars under variations in body posture associated with different vehicle ride heights. It examines not only the force and pressure distribution resulting from changes in the overall vehicle posture but also the flow field behavior of both surface flow and off‑body flow. Analyzing individual components reveals the impact of the front wing on the overall aerodynamic performance and aerodynamic balance of the racing car under these posture variations. Design/methodology/approach: The grid strategy for the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method was established under baseline conditions and compared with the results from wind tunnel experiments. The CFD approach was further employed to investigate the aerodynamic characteristics of the racing car under varying body postures associated with different vehicle ride heights. Emphasis is placed on the overall aerodynamic performance of the vehicle and the various components' influence on the changing trends of aerodynamic forces. By considering the surface pressure distribution of the car, the primary reasons behind the changes in aerodynamic forces for each component are investigated. In addition, the surface flow and detached flow (wake and vortex distributions) of the car were observed to gain insights into the overall flow field behavior under different attitudes. Findings: The findings indicate that both pitch and roll attitudes result in a considerable loss of downforce on the front wing compared with other components, thereby affecting the overall downforce and aerodynamic balance of the vehicle. Originality/value: This paper focuses on the aerodynamic characteristics of racing cars under variations in body posture associated with different vehicle ride heights. It examines not only the force and pressure distribution resulting from changes in the overall vehicle posture but also the flow field behavior of both surface flow and off-body flow. Analyzing individual components reveals the impact of the front wing on the overall aerodynamic performance and aerodynamic balance of the racing car under these posture variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the paper is to develop an efficient thermal management system, which effectively dissipate the heat generated from the electronic devices. The present paper focuses at the modeling of microchannel heat sinks (MCHSs) with phase change materials (PCMs) insets to deal with the fluctuating heat generated from the electronic components. Design/methodology/approach: In this paper, a novel approach is introduced to enhance the thermal performance of MCHSs through the integration of conjugate heat transfer and energy storage. Numerical investigations were conducted on six novel models of PCM-based hybrid MCHSs using ANSYS-FLUENT. The hydrothermal characteristics of six PCM-based hybrid MCHS models were analyzed and compared with an MCHS model without PCM. Findings: The numerical model used for this study exhibited a good agreement with existing experimental and simulation results documented in the literature. The hybrid MCHS models developed in the present analysis showed superior thermal characteristics compared to MCHS without PCM. About 12% improvement in the thermal performance factor and a 7.3% reduction in thermal resistance were observed in the proposed MCHS models. A negligible influence of the PCM channel shape and aspect ratio (AR) was observed on the MCHS performance. Research limitations/implications: As the present work is a numerical investigation, the computational time and computational cost requirements are the main implication for the research. Practical implications: High pumping power requirement and expensive manufacturing methods of the microfluidic devices are the main practical implications. Leakage problem is also a challenge for development of these heat sinks. Originality/value: The surge in the heat generated by electronic components is a limiting factor for the conventional MCHSs. To accommodate the surge, researchers have explored energy storage methods using PCM-based passive MCHS but these are effective only during the phase change process. To address this limitation, novel PCM-based hybrid MCHSs, which combine convective heat transfer with energy storage capabilities, have been modeled in the present work. There is an ample opportunity for further exploration of hybrid MCHSs with PCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the role of ITS Academy foundations in the socio-economic growth of territories through an empirical methodology based on national data of Italian ITS. The results highlight how collaborations between ITS and local firms positively influence employment, with a focus on the coherence between training and work, and underline the geographical disparities between Northern and Southern Italy. The effectiveness of ITS depends on the quality of the partnerships, the intensity of research and development activities, and the number of enterprises involved. The paper suggests targeted interventions to improve the inclusion of women in the labour market and to strengthen territorial synergies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There are two purposes in this paper. The first one is to explore the impact mechanisms and paths of service-oriented manufacturing (SOM) on the sustainability performance of green manufacturing firms and to pay particular attention to the mediating role of enterprise costs in the relationship between the two. The second one is to reveal the dynamic process and laws of SOM influencing on the sustainability performance of green manufacturing enterprises. Design/methodology/approach: This paper employs a combination of dynamic and static research from two aspects. On the one hand, based on 495 green manufacturing firms in China, the authors verify the SEM of SOM, enterprise cost and sustainability performance of green manufacturing firms through empirical research, analyze the path relationship and mediation effect, and demonstrate its complex impact mechanism. On the other hand, the authors use agent-based modeling and simulation to reveal the dynamic influence of SOM on the sustainability performance of green manufacturing enterprises and explore its dynamic laws and future development trends. Findings: The study results indicate that (1) SOM has a direct positive effect on firm sustainability performance. (2) Reducing firm costs has a positive effect on firm sustainability performance, and firm costs play a partial mediating role in the mechanism by which SOM influences firm sustainability performance. (3) The dynamic impact of SOM on sustainability performance increases significantly over time. (4) Significant firm heterogeneity exists in the process by which SOM improves sustainability performance. (5) There are differences in the promotion of SOM for economic performance, environmental performance and social performance. Originality/value: This paper makes two main contributions. First, compared with previous research on sustainability performance focusing on a certain dimension, this paper organically integrates the three dimensions of sustainability performance, regards them as a whole and considers the paths to improve sustainability performance. Second, this paper focuses on the complex relationship among SOM, enterprise costs and sustainability performance and reveals different sustainability performance improvement paths and dynamic impact processes, thereby expanding and deepening previous research on sustainability on the subject. These contributions lead to a better understanding of the driving forces and realization path for green manufacturing firms' sustainability performance from an integrated static and dynamic perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study mainly aims to explore the causal nexus between big data-driven organizational capabilities (BDDOC) and supply chain innovation capabilities (SCIC) and innovation performance (IP), then explore the indirect effect of SCIC and also test the moderating effects for both internal supply chain integration (ISCI) and external supply chain integration (ESCI) into the relationship between BDDOC and SCIC. Design/methodology/approach: In order to test the conceptual model and the hypothesized relationships between all the constructs, the data were collected using a self-reported questionnaire by workers in Jordanian small and medium manufacturing enterprises. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the model. Findings: The paper reached a set of interesting results where it was confirmed that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between BDDOC, SCIC and IP in addition to confirming the indirect effect of SCIC between BDDOC and IP. The results also showed that there is a moderating role for both ESCI and ISCI. Originality/value: This study can be considered the first study in the current literature that investigates these constructs as shown in the research model. Therefore, the paper presents an interesting set of theoretical and managerial contributions that may contribute to covering part of the research gap in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this conceptual paper is to demonstrate how memes perpetuate trauma with a schematic. This conceptual paper uses the "begin with the end in mind" meme to format the presentation of the necessary components for the schematic of how trauma persists across generations. It is the third paper in a series of applications of the recursive, test-operate-test schematic to the systemic effects of the information processes involved in trauma. The schematic presented permits evaluations of solutions to interrupt the generational trauma cycle. Design/methodology/approach: The required schematic components are described. Trauma (actual or perceived threat to survival) will be briefly discussed. Evolutionary processes that create the psychophysiology necessary to support nominal social expectations (NSEs) memes and metaphors will be summarized. The development of NSEs will be discussed. Metaphors and memes necessary for the creation of the schematic and esoteric events at level Learning IV will be briefly described. Finally, Figure 3, which illustrates the maintenance of NSEs and attempts to prevent their violation, will be explained. Findings: It is asserted that functional human social behavior requires NSEs. Trauma is found to persist through the presence of anti-nominal NSE memes that are transduced by the individual into anti-nominal metaphors, which then damage grid, place and dentate gyrus cell (GPDG) neurophysiology. The damaged neurocircuits allow the use of anti-nominal NSE metaphors within our individual neurophysiology. Furthermore, anti-NSE memes interfere with the self-organized criticalities (SOCs) of genetic-epigenetic processes necessary for the intergenerational transfer of functional social behavior. When anti-NSE nominal metaphors are transduced back into anti-NSEs, social niche memes, the trauma process is reiterated. Anti-NSE memes and metaphors are found to be inappropriate criteria central to the maintenance of persistent trauma. Therefore, anti-NSE memes have hijacked our epigenetics and our social niches. Solutions are available because during our evolution, the Homo clade developed esoteric capabilities and the ability to bring back what information we can from those encounters. This physiology operates around the 5HT2A neural receptors that process hallucinogens, such as psilocybin. Accessing this resource system, either through naturally occurring altered states of consciousness or through micro-dose pharmaceutical psilocybin and related neurotransmitters, produces a significant structural change in the GPDG system to reset the NSE system illustrated in the schematic to its nominal status so that we can maintain nominal NSE relationships within our meme niche(s). Research limitations/implications: The source of persistent trauma in our social niche(s), the means by which the trauma is maintained and the means to mitigate and perhaps eliminate persistent trauma are identified. Based on these three conclusions, it is difficult to make decisions regarding corrective actions because of ubiquitous anti-NSE memes and because of the limitations of our ordinary consciousness. Practical implications: If we wish to survive as a species, we will need to discover the criteria necessary to maintain our niche(s) congruent SOCs and use them instead of tyrannical memes described by Dawkins (1989) to make decisions about ourselves and our niche(s). Social implications: Significant courage is required to identify the memes that maintain trauma because many of them are culturally sacred cows. Unfortunately, we have known since Bremner's (1995) MRI study of posttraumatic stress disorder that trauma causes brain damage. Fortunately, our NSE genes compel us to pursue restitution of the memes that maintain our trauma-inducing cultures. Originality/value: Several original assertions are presented. While the Homo clade ancestors began the creation of the social niche(s) that led to Homo sapiens sapiens, it is asserted that the australopiths created the NSE memes which are the foundation behaviors that permit our social niche(s). Furthermore, NSEs were produced by enhanced intentionality skills and NSEs were created by both genetic and memetic processes. The evolution of intentionality-NSE neural networks is asserted as the source of intentional material manipulation. While anti-NSE memes are claimed as the source of persistent trauma, the practice of esoteric technologies is presented as a solution to persistent trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the cooperative governance mechanisms for personal information security, which can help enrich digital governance research and provide a reference for the formulation of protection policies for personal information security. Design/methodology/approach: This paper constructs an evolutionary game model consisting of regulators, digital enterprises and consumers, which is combined with the simulation method to examine the influence of different factors on personal information protection and governance. Findings: The results reveal seven stable equilibrium strategies for personal information security within the cooperative governance game system. The non-compliant processing of personal information by digital enterprises can damage the rights and interests of consumers. However, the combination of regulatory measures implemented by supervisory authorities and the rights protection measures enacted by consumers can effectively promote the self-regulation of digital enterprises. The reputation mechanism exerts a restricting effect on the opportunistic behaviour of the participants. Research limitations/implications: The authors focus on the regulation of digital enterprises and do not consider the involvement of malicious actors such as hackers, and the authors will continue to focus on the game when assessing the governance of malicious actors in subsequent research. Practical implications: This study's results enhance digital governance research and offer a reference for developing policies that protect personal information security. Originality/value: This paper builds an analytical framework for cooperative governance for personal information security, which helps to understand the decision-making behaviour and motivation of different subjects and to better address issues in the governance for personal information security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The paper proposes a two-level closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) dynamic competitive model based on different competitive cooperation situations, and explores the impact of competitive cooperation methods on the pricing strategies, recycling and remanufacturing strategies and competitive model selection strategies of supply chain firms. Design/methodology/approach: This paper establishes a CLSC game consisting of a manufacturer and two retailers. Firstly, five CLSC models are established in both horizontal and vertical dimensions, each of which competes with one another. Secondly, the recycling and remanufacturing pricing strategies are analyzed under different competition or cooperation models. Finally, the results are verified through numerical analysis. Findings: The overall profitability of the CLSC is highest when the manufacturer–retailer partnership alliance is in place. The relationship between retailers and manufacturers is also found to be the best way to achieve overall optimization of the CLSC. Originality/value: The paper investigates the relationship between the competitive partnership and the total profit of the CLSC, taking into account how to optimize the overall benefit, and focusing on how to optimize the individual interests of each participating enterprise. The results can provide basis and guidance for managers' pricing decision and competition cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the mechanism of the role of government subsidies on corporate environmental investment and explore how specific characteristics of firms affect corporate environmental responsibility. Design/methodology/approach: This paper examines the relationship between government subsidies and corporate environmental investment and models with a sample of 78,854 industries. The authors measure the corporate environmental investment by the natural logarithm of the volume of waste gas treatment facilities. Findings: The results show the positive effect of government subsidies on corporate environmental investment. In addition, state ownership positively regulates the relationship between government and corporations, but the relationship between them is negatively regulated by the slack resources. Practical implications: When people are increasingly concerned about corporate social and environmental responsibility, clarifying the link between government subsidies and corporate environmental investments can help policymakers formulate policies and allocate limited resources. Originality/value: This study uses the resource-based view as a theoretical framework to reveal the mechanism of action between government subsidies and corporate environmental responsibility, enriching the previous literature that explores the issue based on the legitimacy perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article from Consumer Reports discusses what to do if you purchase a faulty appliance, providing steps to take when dealing with customer service and warranties. It highlights the challenges consumers face when trying to get repairs or replacements for malfunctioning appliances, emphasizing the importance of documentation and persistence. The article also offers tips for avoiding purchasing faulty appliances in the future, such as seeking out reliable retailers and reading warranty and return policies carefully. [Extracted from the article]

In this paper, we have proposed and analyzed a predator–prey system introducing the cost of predation fear into the prey reproduction with Holling type-II functional response in the stochastic environment with the consideration of non-linear harvesting on predators. The system experiences Transcritical, Saddle–node, Hopf, and Bogdanov-Taken (BT) bifurcation with respect to the intrinsic growth rate and competition rate of the prey populations. We have discussed the existence and uniqueness of positive global solution of the stochastic model with the help of Ito's integral formula and the long-term behavior of the solution is derived here. The existence of stationary distribution and explicit form of the density function is established here when only prey populations survive or both populations. We have shown that due to high fluctuation, the regime changes from one stable state to another state when bistability occurs in the system. The paper ends with some conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quasi-Monte Carlo (QMC) methods have been gaining popularity in computational finance as they are competitive alternatives to Monte Carlo methods that can accelerate numerical accuracy. This paper develops a new approach for reducing the effective dimension combined with a randomized QMC method. A distinctive feature of the proposed approach is its sample-based transformation that enables us to choose a flexible manipulation via regression. In the proposed approach, the first step is to perform a regression using the samples to estimate the parameters of the regression model. An optimal transformation is proposed based on the regression result to minimize the effective dimension. An advantage of this approach is that adopting a statistical approach allows greater flexibility in selecting the regression model. In addition to a linear model, this paper proposes a dimension reduction method based on a linear-quadratic model for regression. In numerical experiments, we focus on pricing different types of exotic options to test the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The numerical results show that different regression models are chosen depending on the underlying risk process and the type of derivative securities. In particular, we show several examples where the proposed method works while existing dimension reductions are ineffective. • We propose a sample-based transformation algorithm based on a regression. • The proposed scheme approximates the payoff of a financial option as a linear-quadratic function. • It can reduce the estimator's variance with a randomized QMC via dimension reduction. • The proposed scheme is particularly effective in pricing complex options. • We also show the effectiveness of ridge regression in the scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes finite-difference schemes based on triangular stencils to approximate partial derivatives using bivariate Lagrange polynomials. We use first-order partial derivative approximations on triangles to introduce a novel hexagonal scheme for the second-order partial derivative on any rotated parallelogram grid. Numerical analysis of the local truncation errors shows that first-order partial derivative approximations depend strongly on the triangle vertices getting at least a first-order method. On the other hand, we prove that the proposed hexagonal scheme is always second-order accurate. Simulations performed at different triangular configurations reveal that numerical errors agree with our theoretical results. Results demonstrate that the proposed method is second-order accurate for the Poisson and Helmholtz equation. Furthermore, this paper shows that the hexagonal scheme with equilateral triangles results in a fourth-order accurate method to the Laplace equation. Finally, we study two-dimensional elliptic differential equations on different triangular grids and domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the challenges faced by farmers due to the growing demand for food and the need to keep it fresh, with the added pressure of climate change.

Science and health are under assault. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the personal experiences and unusual incidents encountered in the shredding business. Topics include the author's involvement with Shredco, discovering strange items like guns and medical specimens in the shredding process, and the surprising amount of money and personal items customers often discard.

The article "Marble marvel" in New Scientist explores the significance of marble quarries in central Italy's Apuan Alps, particularly in the village of Colonnata. The white marble extracted from these quarries is highly valued and has been used by renowned sculptors like Michelangelo. While marble continues to be a staple material for artists, its extraction has environmental consequences, with concerns raised about the impact on the surrounding mountains. [Extracted from the article]

An interview with artist Hardeep Pandhal is presented. Pandhal talks about his approach to creating his works on paper and wall drawing for the upcoming exhibition "Inner World" at the Drawing Room in London, England. He discusses his consideration of the hyper-visibility of brown men to provide a visual shorthand for dynamics of empowerment or self-preservation, as well as the importance of cultural histories and cultural memory in constructing the self and being reincarnated.

The article "Holding Fire: Hillary Kane's Personal Cosmology in Clay" reviews Hillary Kane's recent exhibition at Lucy Lacoste Gallery, showcasing her exploration of sculptural clay and anagama wood firing. Kane's work is situated within the tradition of American wood-fired ceramics, emphasizing cooperation, curiosity, and patience in the firing process. Her pieces, characterized by organic forms and intricate surfaces, invite viewers to engage with themes of transformation and spiritual experience. Kane's ceramics, alongside her paper-clay paintings, offer a meditation on the forces that shape us and the world, blending fragility with strength and spontaneity with deliberation. [Extracted from the article]