Product Definition Research Articles

Critical decisions at the early stage of start-ups: a systematic literature review

AbstractThis systematic literature review (SLR) identifies and ranks the decisions that can be considered critical for entrepreneurs at the early stage of the start-up process. The sample (N = 56) derived from the SLR contained primary publications from the A + and A journals of the VHB-Journal ranking. Deductive and inductive approaches were used to define the critical decision domains. Then, the relevance of the domains was evaluated using the frequency of the selected studies. A key implication for founders is to understand that not all decisions that could be taken in the early stage may be critical for success. Most critical seems to invest time and effort in the, what we label the internal business and human core (Core People and Product Definition) and the external business and human core (Market segment selection and Partnerships). This study depicts an integrated view of the fragmented field of critical decisions in the context of early-stage start-ups by using a SLR. Thus, it creates value for theory-building and practitioners in entrepreneurship and innovation.

On the nonequilibrium dynamics of gravitational algebras

Abstract We explore nonequilibrium features of certain operator algebras which appear in quantum gravity. The algebra of observables in a black hole background is a Type II ∞ von Neumann algebra. We discuss how this algebra can be coupled to the algebra of observable of an infinite reservoir within the canonical ensemble, aiming to induce nonequilibrium dynamics. The resulting dynamics can lead the system towards a nonequilibrium steady state which can be characterized through modular theory. Within this framework we address the definition of entropy production and its relationship to relative entropy, alongside exploring other applications.

Algebraic and geometric definitions of the cross product: the link

Given two vectors $\overrightarrow u = {({u_1},\,\,{u_2},\,{u_3})^t}$ and $\overrightarrow y = {({v_1},\,{v_2},\,{v_3})^t}$ in ${{\mathcal{R}}^3}$ , the cross product $\overrightarrow u \times \overrightarrow v $ is defined as follows (see [1] or [2]): $$Algebraic{\rm{ }}definition{\rm{:}}\,\,\overrightarrow u \times \overrightarrow v \, = \,\left[ {\matrix{ {{u_2}{v_3}} \hfill & - \hfill & {{u_3}{v_2}} \hfill \cr {{u_3}{v_1}} \hfill & - \hfill & {{u_1}{v_3}} \hfill \cr {{u_1}{v_2}} \hfill & - \hfill & {{u_2}{v_1}} \hfill \cr } } \right].$$

Quantum Onsager relations

Abstract Using quantum information geometry, I derive quantum generalizations of the Onsager rate equations, which model the dynamics of an open system near a steady state. The generalized equations hold for a flexible definition of the forces as well as a large class of statistical divergence measures and quantum-Fisher-information metrics beyond the conventional definition of entropy production. I also derive quantum Onsager-Casimir relations for the transport tensors by proposing a general concept of time reversal and detailed balance for open quantum systems. The results establish a remarkable connection between statistical mechanics and parameter estimation theory.

Gromov-Witten Invariants in Complex and Morava-Local K-Theories

AbstractGiven a closed symplectic manifold X, we construct Gromov-Witten-type invariants valued both in (complex) K-theory and in any complex-oriented cohomology theory $\mathbb{K}$ which is Kp(n)-local for some Morava K-theory Kp(n). We show that these invariants satisfy a version of the Kontsevich-Manin axioms, extending Givental and Lee’s work for the quantum K-theory of complex projective algebraic varieties. In particular, we prove a Gromov-Witten type splitting axiom, and hence define quantum K-theory and quantum $\mathbb{K}$-theory as commutative deformations of the corresponding (generalised) cohomology rings of X; the definition of the quantum product involves the formal group of the underlying cohomology theory. The key geometric input of these results is a construction of global Kuranishi charts for moduli spaces of stable maps of arbitrary genus to X. On the algebraic side, in order to establish a common framework covering both ordinary K-theory and Kp(n)-local theories, we introduce a formalism of ‘counting theories’ for enumerative invariants on a category of global Kuranishi charts.

Where next for manufacturing productivity research? Propositions based on exploratory empirical investigation

Purpose The purpose of this research is to develop empirically grounded propositions for further research into UK manufacturing productivity.Design/methodology/approach Interviews were conducted with managers from strategic, tactical and operational levels from four manufacturing sectors to produce case studies. A modified strategic alignment theory framework was used to code, compare and contrast narratives on perceived productivity antecedents, definitions, compatibility with the definition from the UK Office for National Statistics, and vertical alignment issues within and across cases.Findings It was found that different key antecedents can facilitate and/or prevent strategic vertical alignment. Discussion reveals complex nuances in perceptions of manufacturing productivity and using the modified strategic alignment theory/productivity antecedent framework.Originality/value In revealing the alignment or otherwise of productivity definitions at different levels within the firm, the paper reveals nine propositions for future research including definitions, skills, metrics, performance measurement systems, people and system-centric perspectives, the value-added perspective of productivity and the role of innovation.

The Teodorescu and the Π-operator in octonionic analysis and some applications

In the development of function theory in octonions, the non-associativity property produces an additional associator term when applying the Stokes formula. To take the non-associativity into account, particular intrinsic weight factors are implemented in the definition of octonion-valued inner products to ensure the existence of a reproducing Bergman kernel. This Bergman projection plays a pivotal role in the L2-space decomposition demonstrated in this paper for octonion-valued functions. In the unit ball, we explicitly show that the intrinsic weight factor is crucial to obtain the reproduction property and that the latter precisely compensates an additional associator term that otherwise appears when leaving out the weight factor.Furthermore, we study an octonionic Teodorescu transform and show how it is related to the unweighted version of the Bergman transform and establish some operator relations between these transformations. We apply two different versions of the Borel-Pompeiu formulae that naturally arise in the context of the non-associativity. Next, we use the octonionic Teodorescu transform to establish a suitable octonionic generalization of the Ahlfors-Beurling operator, also known as the Π-operator. We prove an integral representation formula that presents a unified representation for the Π-operator arising in all prominent hypercomplex function theories. Then we describe some basic mapping properties arising in context with the L2-space decomposition discussed before.Finally, we explore several applications of the octonionic Π-operator. Initially, we demonstrate its utility in solving the octonionic Beltrami equation, which characterizes generalized quasi-conformal maps from R8 to R8 in a specific analytical sense. Subsequently, analogous results are presented for the hyperbolic octonionic Dirac operator acting on the right half-space of R8. Lastly, we discuss how the octonionic Teodorescu transform and the Bergman projection can be employed to solve an eight-dimensional Stokes problem in the non-associative octonionic setting.

The Effect of Training Program on Nurses’ Knowledge and Practices Regarding Nursing Care of Children with Type-I Diabetes Mellitus in Wad Medani Pediatrics Teaching Hospital Gezira State, Sudan

Type-1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that originate when very little or no insulin is produced by the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. Untreated, diabetes can cause many complications. Nurses are in a key position to disseminate knowledge and provide proper nursing care resulting in control of the disease and prevent complications. This study was conducted in Pediatrics Teaching Hospital Gezira State, Sudan. This study aimed at assessing the effect of the training program on nurse's knowledge and practice regarding nursing care of children with type-I diabetes mellitus. training program was done to assist nurses in the Pediatric Teaching Hospital knowledge and skills need in caring of infant with type-1 diabetes mellitus. The program package contains sex session with different learning objectives and use many different teaching techniques methods include lecture, practical, audio visual aids and demonstration. Every session with different title around the diabetic knowledge. Data analysis was performed by using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version (22). The results of nurse knowledge regarding definition of diabetes for correct answer in post-intervention were highly increased in percentage. Also The results of nurse knowledge regarding definition of insulin for correct answer in post-intervention were highly increased in percentage for all questions. The results of nurse knowledge regarding definition of diabetes, insulin and combination insulin products for correct answer in post-intervention were highly increased in percentage. The study concluded that results of nurse knowledge regarding definition of diabetes, insulin and combination insulin products for correct answer in post-intervention were highly increased in percentage. The study recommended that periodic training program on care of children with type-I diabetes mellitus must be conducted and log book must be design and available for nurses in the hospitals.

Suočavanje s izazovima u vezi s ocjenjivanjem zelene gradnje prema LEED-u u Turskoj

This study examined the effectiveness of the LEED green building rating system and identified performance gaps in developing countries using Türkiye as a case study. The analysis of 134 LEED Platinum V4-certified buildings in Turkiye revealed discrepancies in high-priority sites, site evaluation, building product definition and optimisation, and low-emission material credits compared with other countries. Variations in energy, atmosphere, and indoor environmental quality criteria were also noted within LEED Platinum-certified buildings in Turkiye. The study concludes that while LEED is widely embraced, local standards and contextual factors must be considered when implementing these programs.

Supersymmetric spectrum for vector multiplet on Euclidean AdS2

Quantum study of supersymmetric theories on Euclidean two dimensional anti-de Sitter space (EAdS2) requires complexified spectrum. For a chiral multiplet, we showed that the spectrum of the Dirac operator acquires a universal shift of i/2 from the real spectrum to make the supersymmetry between boson and fermion manifest, where both the bosonic and fermionic eigenfunctions are normalizable using an appropriate definition of Euclidean inner product. We extend this analysis to the vector multiplet, where we show that the gaugino requires both +i/2 and i/2 shift from the real spectrum, and there is additional isolated point at vanishing spectral parameter which is mapped by supersymmetry to the boundary zero modes of the vector field. Furthermore, this spectral analysis shows that not every bosonic fields in the vector multiplet can satisfy normalizable boundary condition. Nevertheless, aided by a reorganization of fields into a cohomological form, we find the supersymmetry mapping between bosons and fermions in terms of the expansion coefficients with respect to the newly constructed basis.

Entropy production from maximum entropy principle: A unifying approach.

Entropy production is the crucial quantity characterizing irreversible phenomena and the second law of thermodynamics. Yet, a ubiquitous definition eludes consensus. Given that entropy production arises from incomplete access to information, in this work we use Jaynes' maximum entropy principle to establish a framework that brings together prominent and apparently conflicting definitions. More generally, our definition of entropy production addresses any tomographically incomplete quantum measurement and/or the action of a quantum channel on a system.

Sequential pricing of electricity

This paper investigates the design and analysis of price formation in wholesale electricity markets given variability, uncertainty, non-convexity, and intertemporal operating constraints. The paper’s primary goal is to develop a framework to assess the many resource participation models, reserve product definitions, and enhanced pricing methods that have arisen in U.S. systems, especially in the context of growing contributions from wind, solar, and storage. Departing from the static models typically used for electricity auctions based on thermal resources, the paper situates price formation within the sequential decision problem faced by system operators. This more complete description of the problem has several implications for price formation. Since prices are derived from operational models, algorithmic choices in the design of policies for the sequential decision problem influence the prices ultimately formed. In numerical tests, policy variants with comparable operational performance (within 4% in terms of total cost) lead to substantial differences in prices and resource remuneration. Storage is particularly affected, earning revenues ranging from 57% to 117% of the amount suggested as economically efficient by a benchmark approximated through stochastic programming.

Digitalization Adoption Barriers in the Context of Sustainability and Operational Excellence: Implications for SMEs

In the global landscape, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly enhancing their adaptability to capitalize on evolving market prospects. Industry 4.0 technologies, with their primary focus on improving operational excellence, hold immense potential for contributing to the sustainability of SMEs. These technologies optimize resources, repurpose materials, enable remote working, and minimize waste, thereby fostering a resilient business environment. In the current study, the authors have utilized the Technology, Organization, and Environment (TOE) framework to conduct a comprehensive literature review and identified the key barriers. Research questions and hypothesis were formulated. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted, involving 205 discrete manufacturing SMEs. The authors evaluated the proposed hypotheses using the Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique to gain insights into their causal relationships. Identified barriers are categorized as adoption barriers, lack of in-house technology skills, readiness barriers, and adverse operational realities. The authors observed that lack of strategic planning, inadequate focus on processes and performance monitoring results in barriers that hinder the digitalization of SMEs. Further results anticipate that operational realities have a direct relationship with readiness barriers of SMEs. This implies that challenges such as workforce turnover, pricing pressures, last-minute design changes, overdue payments, and outdated infrastructure can lead to operational difficulties, resulting in suboptimal strategies, business plans, and ineffective processes. The findings of the current study also imply that implementing shopfloor industrial Internet of things (IIoT) to track performance and interventions through digital definitions of products and manufacturing can further strengthen processes. By incorporating the findings from this study, SME stakeholders can develop strategies to achieve operational excellence while fulfilling their sustainability goals.

Entropy production in the mesoscopic-leads formulation of quantum thermodynamics.

Understanding the entropy production of systems strongly coupled to thermal baths is a core problem of both quantum thermodynamics and mesoscopic physics. While many techniques exist to accurately study entropy production in such systems, they typically require a microscopic description of the baths, which can become numerically intractable to study for large systems. Alternatively an open-systems approach can be employed with all the nuances associated with various levels of approximation. Recently, the mesoscopic leads approach has emerged as a powerful method for studying such quantum systems strongly coupled to multiple thermal baths. In this method, a set of discretized lead modes, each locally damped, provide a Markovian embedding. Here we show that this method proves extremely useful to describe entropy production of a strongly coupled open quantum system. We show numerically, for both noninteracting and interacting setups, that a system coupled to a single bath exhibits a thermal fixed point at the level of the embedding. This allows us to use various results from the thermodynamics of quantum dynamical semigroups to infer the nonequilibrium thermodynamics of the strongly coupled, non-Markovian central systems. In particular, we show that the entropy production in the transient regime recovers the well-established microscopic definitions of entropy production with a correction that can be computed explicitly for both the single- and multiple-lead cases.

Paper-pop-up design as three-dimensional skillin a higher education context

This applied research developed within the framework of a Portuguese Higher Education Institution. Its purpose is to assess academic practice in the context of a curricular unit in a graphic design degree course. This practice has been developed within three complementary perspectives: (a) the pedagogical concept and the proposed design exercise; (b) the selection of paper processes and materials used; (c) the design and structural definition of the graphic product. The purpose of this research is to describe the activity criteria from each perspective, exposing realization guidelines presented to students in designing a specific graphic product, from ideation, design process, and estimation of a feasible production. All this from the analysis of the proposed activity and evaluation of the prototype that represents Paper-pop-up design.

Addressing challenges in LEED green building ratings in Türkiye

This study examined the effectiveness of the LEED green building rating system and identified performance gaps in developing countries using Türkiye as a case study. The analysis of 134 LEED Platinum V4-certified buildings in Turkiye revealed discrepancies in high-priority sites, site evaluation, building product definition and optimisation, and low-emission material credits compared with other countries. Variations in energy, atmosphere, and indoor environmental quality criteria were also noted within LEED Platinum-certified buildings in Turkiye. The study concludes that while LEED is widely embraced, local standards and contextual factors must be considered when implementing these programs.

Products of distributions in Colombeau algebra

In this paper, we evaluate some products of distributions in Colombeau algebra of generalized functions. In the classical theory of Schwartz distributions, multiplication of distributions is not defined for two arbitrary singular distributions. The properties of the Colombeau algebra allow us to calculate products of singular distributions which are not defined in the classical theory. The notion of association in Colombeau algebra of generalized functions allows us the results obtained in this way to be considered as products in the classical theory of distributions. The definition of the Colombeau product of distributions can be considered as generalization of their classical product in Schwartz theory.

Роль цифровых продуктов в развитии предпринимательства отечественного ретейла

The relevance of the research topic is due to the decline in the retail market, the development of digitalization of the economy and the steadily growing e-commerce market in Russia, which confirms the need to introduce digital products in retail. The purpose of the article is to determine the role of digital products in the development of Russian retail trade. Achieving the goal is determined by solving the following tasks: develop a classification system for digital products, prepare an analysis of the categories of digital products in retail, present the author’s definition of a digital product. The study analyzes industry development trends in the medium term. An important aspect of the study is the analysis of digital products necessary for integration into retail, based on the developed classification taking into account industry trends. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the development of: the author’s definition of a digital product, in the classification system of digital products, which contributes to the understanding of the role of digital products in modern retail trade and represents the theoretical value of the study. Consequently, determine the need for conducting further research aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of product management in real market conditions.

Storytelling as a Tool for Activist Public Relations: A Qualitative Study in Case of Women

This study focuses on storytelling in activist public relations. Stories emerge as an important "activist public relations" tool in non-governmental organizations' social change and awareness-raising efforts. The research aims to investigate both short and long-term effects of storytelling on emotions, awareness levels, and behavioral changes across different age groups. To illustrate the use of storytelling in activist public relations within the cosmetics industry, the researchers selected the short film "Save Ralph," produced by Humane Society International in 2021. The short film tells in an emotional tone, from the mouth of a rabbit, what happened to him during cosmetic experiments. The research, employing a qualitative research design, comprises three stages. Firstly, a survey was conducted among 30 women from various age groups to gather insights into their definitions of cosmetic products, usage frequency, and factors influencing their preferences. In the second stage, participants were shown the selected short film, followed by in-depth interviews. Lastly, follow-up interviews were conducted with the same group of women three months later. The findings revealed that storytelling had the most significant impact on emotions, awareness levels, and behavioral changes among women aged 18-23. This underscores the effectiveness of storytelling as a strategy for driving social change and raising awareness within activist public relations initiatives.

A system for achieving the strategic goals of the project of chartering the fleet of shipping companies in the post-war period

The beginning of the full-scale invasion of russia into Ukraine caused significant human, economic and political losses, as well as destruction of the shipping system of water transport. Nevertheless, in the future (in the post -war period) all losses received must be restored according to projects and programs in the post-war period. This paper examines the current scientific and applied problem of developing approaches to managing the success of fleet chartering projects based on proacti ve research of shipping companies. The authors have identified the main factors affecting fleet chartering processes: trends in the charter market; the volume of transport work in already developed markets, opportunities to enter new markets, the level of prices for ships, the state of the turbulent environment. The main strategic goals that determine the need to replenish the shipping company's fleet have been established. The main types of fleet replenishment projects corresponding to the following options for fleet replenishment have been identified: shipbuilding, ship acquisition, leasing (bareboat charter), short - and medium-term lease of ships (time charter). Classification of the main types of fleet replenishment projects, regarding their classification features, definition of products, specifics of life cycles, value and composition of stakeholders, which fully characterizes fleet replenishment as an object of project management. As a result of the time charter lease, the company is limited in its rights to the vessel and can only carry out commercial activities, and this type of lease allows solving short- and medium-term tasks related to market activity and the need to replenish the fleet. The concept and model of the proactive formation of fleet chartering project parameters in specific market conditions, taking into account their further development, which ensures the establishment of project product characteristics and the life cycle, taking into account the integral influence of the dynamics of the market conditions related to the project. For each selected type of fleet chartering project, the main classification features, specifics of life cycles, value and composition of participants are established. Thus, the formation of management models for the implementation of innovative projects, programs, in particular in Ukraine in its post-war conditions, in the paradigm of uncertainty of crises in the post-war period, remains relevant.