Competitive Growth Research Articles

Modeling the Effects of Temperature and Limiting Nutrients on the Competition of an Invasive Floating Plant, Pontederia crassipes, with Submersed Vegetation in a Shallow Lake.

The potential for a non-native plant species to invade a new habitat depends on broadscale factors such as climate, local factors such as nutrient availability, and the biotic community of the habitat into which the plant species is introduced. We developed a spatially explicit model to assess the risk of expansion of a floating invasive aquatic plant species (FAV), the water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes), an invader in the United States, beyond its present range. Our model used known data on growth rates and competition with a native submersed aquatic macrophyte (SAV). In particular, the model simulated an invasion into a habitat with a mean annual temperature different from its own growth optimum, in which we also simulated seasonal fluctuations in temperature. Twenty different nutrient concentrations and eight different temperature scenarios, with different mean annual amplitudes of seasonal temperature variation around the mean of the invaded habitat, were simulated. In each case, the ability of the water hyacinth to invade and either exclude or coexist with the native vegetation was determined. As the temperature pattern was changed from tropical towards increasingly cooler temperate levels, the competitive advantage shifted from the tropical FAV to the more temperate SAV, with a wide range in which coexistence occurred. High nutrient concentrations allowed the coexistence of FAV, even at cooler annual temperatures. But even at the highest nutrient concentrations in the model, the FAV was unlikely to persist under the current climates of latitudes in the Southeastern United States above that of Northern Alabama. This result may have some implications for where control efforts need to be concentrated.

Specialized Listeria monocytogenes produce tailocins to provide a population-level competitive growth advantage.

Tailocins are phage tail-like bacteriocins produced by various bacterial species to kill kin competitors. Given that tailocin release is dependent upon cell lysis, regulation of tailocin production at the single-cell and population level remains unclear. Here we used flow cytometry, competition assays and structural characterization of tailocin production in a human bacterial pathogen, Listeria monocytogenes. We revealed that a specialized subpopulation, constituting less than 1% of the total bacterial population, differentiates to produce, assemble and store thousands of tailocin particles. Tailocins are packed in a highly ordered manner, clustered in a liquid crystalline phase that occupies a substantial volume of the cell. Tailocin production confers a competitive growth advantage for the rest of the population. This study provides molecular insights into tailocin production as a form of altruism, showing how cell specialization within bacterial populations can confer competitive advantages at the population level.

Unveiling the Power of Skills: a Multifaceted Approach to Individual and Societal Transformation

Purpose: This review article aims to explore the multifaceted realm of skill development, elucidating its various dimensions and highlighting its profound impact on individuals and societies in the 21st century. Theoretical Framework: The discussion is structured around the dynamic nature of skills within the contemporary landscape, emphasizing their significance in diverse domains such as employability, economic growth, personal development, social inclusion, innovation, and global competitiveness. Methodology:The systematic review has been comprising of research papers form Impact of Skill Development and Importance of Skill Development. Followed by systematically analyzing the significance, consequences, and avenues of skill development, drawing on a wide range of literature and research findings to provide comprehensive insights. Findings: The review articulates how investing in skill development contributes not only to individual success but also to the prosperity and dynamism of economies and societies at large. It highlights the diverse pathways available for skill cultivation, including formal education, vocational training, on-the-job learning, online platforms, and apprenticeships. Implication of Work: Study advocates for a paradigm shift in the perception of skills, viewing them not merely as tools for employment but as catalysts for personal growth, societal progress, and global competitiveness. It serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and individuals seeking to navigate the complex terrain of skill development in the contemporary world.

Роль малых предприятий в аграрной экономике: оценка вклада в сельскохозяйственное производство

Small businesses and peasant (farm) households play a key role in agricultural production in Russia, making a significant contribution to the development of the agricultural sector. The relevance of this study is due to the need to analyze the contribution of small enterprises to the total volume of agricultural production and assess their impact on the country's economy. The purpose of the article is to study the role of small enterprises and farms in the agricultural economy of Russia based on data on the share of small enterprises in agricultural production and the main indicators of farmers' activities. The hypothesis of the study is that small enterprises play an important role in the production of crop products, but their contribution to livestock farming remains relatively small. The conducted data analysis showed that small enterprises provide a significant part of the production of grain and oilseeds, but their share in the livestock sector is small. In addition, farms demonstrate steady growth in crop production, especially in the production of grain and oilseeds. The conclusions of the article highlight the importance of further development of small businesses and farms through improved access to financial resources, government support and the introduction of innovative technologies to increase their competitiveness and sustainable growth in the agricultural economy.

Financial Performance's Impact on Firm Value: How Managerial Ownership Mediates the Relationship

Banks play a significant role in facilitating the generation of economic growth opportunities, which can impact the achievement of government-set economic growth objectives. Hence, it is imperative to foster a climate that promotes banks' competitive growth and resilience, enabling them to effectively confront many problems in the face of escalating global complexities. To maintain a competitive edge, the bank must exhibit strong performance that positively influences corporate value. For that, the objective of this study is to ascertain the key determinants that exert a substantial impact on the valuation of firms, specifically examining the potential influence of capital structure, profitability, profits per share, and dividend payout ratio on the value of financial institutions. Another aim of the study is to ascertain the potential moderating effect of managerial ownership on the independent variable of company value. The sample selection included purposive random sampling, with the criterion of including only those with complete data from the research period spanning 2011 to 2022, using Moderation Regression and data panel Analysis. This study shows that earnings per share and dividend payout ratio significantly impact banks' valuation. In the interim, the Moderation Regression Analysis has yielded findings indicating that management ownership is a moderating factor in the relationship between earnings per share and banking value.

Ukrainian Economy in the Era of Digital Branding: Risks and Opportunities

In the global digital economy, this study examines how digital branding affects the competitiveness and market growth of Ukrainian businesses. The study uses a meta-analysis of 50 quantitative studies to determine the effectiveness of digital branding strategies. It focuses on key areas including data analytics, personalized marketing, and reaching a global market. A thorough search strategy was used to find relevant studies that had been published in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and other academic works. The digital archives of the Ukrainian National Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were some of the databases that were searched. The keywords that were searched for included "digital branding," "Ukraine," "online consumer behaviour," "data privacy in digital marketing," "digital marketing strategies," "branding challenges in emerging markets," and others that were similar. To ensure the reliability and validity of these findings, a rigorous grading methodology was employed. Studies were assessed based on their sample size, research design, and the robustness of their statistical analyses. The grading process allowed for the categorization of studies into different quality tiers, ensuring that the meta-analysis drew primarily from high-quality sources. This approach strengthens the confidence in the effect sizes reported. Digital branding makes a big difference in the market and in getting people to interact with a brand. For example, targeted marketing through data analytics has an overall effect size of 0.56, and personalized digital experiences have an effect size of 0.60. However, the study also finds numerous problems, especially when it comes to data security. An effect size of 0.51 shows that problems related to privacy are concerning, and an effect size of 0.46 demonstrates a lack of trust in companies. These results show that Ukrainian businesses need to take strong steps to protect customer data and follow clear business practices. The study found that digital branding can help Ukraine's economy grow, but the pros and cons must be carefully weighed against the need for proactive risk management. This study has a lot to teach businesses and policymakers who want to make their digital branding strategies better for long-term economic growth.

Tele-Orthodontics: A Lifesaver during COVID-19 Second Wave

Aim: The study aims to evaluate the outcome of orthodontic treatment during the COVID-19 Pandemic using Tele-Orthodontics.  Objective: To explain how Tele-orthodontics represents an excellent way to perform orthodontic follow-ups during a period of restriction and to assess the effectiveness of follow-up using Tele-Orthodontics during the COVID-19 Pandemic.  Materials and Methods: Study design: Our study involves 30 patients in total, where 15 patients did not receive any further therapy and 15 patients had Tele-orthodontics treatment, with 10 patients receiving bonding treatment, 10 receiving mid- treatment treatment, and 10 receiving retention appliances. The communication tools used in our study and proposed in our model of tele-orthodontics include an online questionnaire using Google form once every 15 days, Tele-calling with Google Meet once a month, and frontal, side profile, and occlusal view (if possible) photos via WhatsApp messenger.  Results: Tele-orthodontics proved to be the only option to complete some orthodontic tasks during COVID-19 because it provided a means of communication between the dentist and the patient. Most of the patients who underwent bonding (66.7%), on retainer (96.7%), and during mid-treatment (93.3) maintained good oral hygiene during treatment. 93.3% of the patients’ appliances on retainer were holding tight in place with no discomfort and during the treatment, 70% of the patients were comfortable while speaking and 63.3% noticed changes in their appearance. Overall, Tele orthodontics was more time-saving and more desirable economically to both practitioners and patients.  Conclusion: Tele-Orthodontics is experiencing rapid growth and fierce competition. Most of the patients maintained good oral hygiene, and also had a positive perception of the use of Tele-Orthodontics.

Rethinking holistic sustainable growth of Malaysian SMEs: a University Helix-Quadruple Bottom Line perspective

Purpose Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are critical for economic development and meeting the sustainable development goals (SDGs); however, many struggle to survive in the long term. So, this study aims to present a model for sustainable growth that bridges the gap between desired growth and managerial competencies. By configuring university helix-induced crowdfunding and opportunity recognition competencies with industry helix-driven innovation, the study encourages a quadruple bottom line (QBL) strategy, helping SMEs attain competitiveness for sustainable growth. Design/methodology/approach This pilot study used a sequential mixed methods design and adhered to the pragmatic research paradigm. A survey of 52 SCORE-listed manufacturers yielded quantitative data, complemented by qualitative interviews with 7 SME decision makers. This study used NVivo 10 and SmartPLS 4.0 for the necessary analysis. In addition, an effective triangulation strategy has been implemented to explain causation among selected variables. Findings The findings show that opportunity recognition and crowdfunding are positively associated with SMEs’ ability to grow in a sustainable manner and that exploitative and explorative innovation also mediate those relationships. The qualitative part highlighted key insights for successfully applying this model in Malaysian SMEs. The interview results also suggest that corporate spirituality might help SMEs adopt sustainability-focused practices. Research limitations/implications More research is required regarding both the methods and results of this pilot study. Although conducting a pilot study increases the likelihood of success in the main study, it does not ensure it. Practical implications This study equips Malaysian SMEs with a roadmap for achieving sustainable growth. The obtained findings indicate that Malaysian SMEs that develop strong crowdfunding and opportunity recognition competencies are more likely to achieve innovation-focused long-term survival. In addition, incorporating corporate spirituality can enhance their economic, social and environmental performance. Social implications By supporting more innovation in SMEs, which can improve sustainability-oriented successes and support a healthy economic system, these findings may have a beneficial social change impact. The concept may also act as the foundation for SMEs’ promotion of the SDGs. Originality/value The study uniquely offers a holistic growth model for Malaysian SMEs founded on the helix-QBL understanding that explains a firm’s sustainability-focused competitive advantage.

Surface wave phenomenon and microstructure evolution mechanism of electromagnetically levitated ternary Ti-Al-Fe alloy

Electromagnetic levitation technique was performed to investigate the surface wave phenomenon and microstructure evolution mechanism of undercooled ternary Ti50Al30Fe20 alloy. Under the condition of high undercooling, the formation process of surface waves on the levitated alloy surface were directly detected by high-speed camera. The cooling gas provided the external perturbation that promoted surface nucleation, providing the suitable site for surface wave generation. On the rotating semisolid alloy surface, the competition between centrifugal force and surface tension caused the surface wrinkling, leading to the formation of surface waves. The residual liquid phase was solidified in the vortex circulation flow, and the vortex-shape pattern was preserved during rapid solidification. With the increases of undercooling, the microstructure evolved from dendrites and interdendritic lamellar eutectics into uniform anomalous eutectics because of the independent nucleation and competitive growth of (βTi) and TiFe phase. The surface wave was formed only at high undercoolings, indicating this phenomenon was related to the fluidity in eutectic growth. In this case, the uniform microstructure was closer to satisfying the continuum medium hypothesis, and the homogeneous medium reduced the energy damage during wave propagation. In addition, the micromechanical properties were remarkably increased as undercooling rose owing to the microstructural morphology and solute trapping effect.

Network analysis of contractors’ assessment factors

The effect of assessment management and selecting the appropriate contractor is growing interest in research because of ‎the change in preferences of contractors’ behaviour and the growth of competitiveness. The assessment of contractors is a continuous process that demands ongoing ‎monitoring to maintain high quality ranks. In this study, the factors behaviour of contractors' assessment for a construction engineering company and a method of topological analysis are examined to a) aid in the interpretation of existing relationships among all factors and b) find influencing factors of contractors’ assessment. The method begins with the network construction of factors considering some criteria or standards. We then propose a method of network analysis and describe the results of studies undertaken to apply the correlation network-based approach and discuss the implications of the methodology. As a result of this study, all influencing factors are involved in a category. The most influential factor is the specialized training of staff that can improve the contractors' productivity and competitiveness.

Unravelling the development of preferred crystallographic orientation in dual-phase amorphous/nanocrystalline Zr-V thin films

Dual-phase amorphous/nanocrystalline alloys have been proven to present enhanced properties compared to their amorphous or nanocrystalline single-phase counterparts. These dual-phase materials are typically composed of nanocrystalline cores embedded in an amorphous matrix. In contrast, a new kind of dual-phase metallic films has recently been reported in which cone-shaped crystalline regions evolve as a result of competitive growth between the amorphous and crystalline phases with increasing film thickness. Here, we demonstrate that, unlike typical dual-phase alloys, Zr-V thin films exhibiting crystalline/amorphous competitive growth develop a preferred crystallographic orientation upon growth. Relying on pole figure observations, we uncover the development of a preferred orientation of the (110) crystallographic planes in the growth direction of the film with increasing film thickness. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis reveals that the crystalline regions are formed by nano-branches which grow (110)-oriented. Based on this result, together with scanning and transmission electron microscopy observations, we associate the development of the thickness-dependent preferred orientation to the impingement between cone-shaped crystalline regions. This process triggers a selective growth mechanism that favors the selection of nano-branches growing near the direction of film growth. Our results and analyses provide a step forward in understanding the growth kinetics of dual-phase alloys presenting complex microstructures.

A Comparative Study on the Urban Competitiveness for Sustainable Growth of Busan with Osaka and Shanghai

A Comparative Study on the Urban Competitiveness for Sustainable Growth of Busan with Osaka and Shanghai

Contested Ecological Transition in Small and Medium-Sized Cities: The Case of Rochefort, France

In Europe, small and medium-sized cities (SMSCs) face significant challenges related to climate change and environmental degradation. In France, recent governmental measures have sought to accelerate the ecological transition (ET) across its national territory, aiming to meet carbon reduction targets and preserve biodiversity. Since the pandemic, SMSCs have been at the forefront of this ET policy, benefiting from support programmes designed to revitalise neglected city centres. However, several studies have already highlighted that, despite being “tailored” to the specificities of each beneficiary city, these programmes are largely inspired by metropolitan models focused on economic growth and territorial competitiveness. This article aims to highlight that the ET directives applied to SMSCs also derive from practices in larger cities, embodying an “institutionalised” conception of ecology as part of broader attractiveness strategies. An investigation conducted in 2021 in Rochefort (France) demonstrates that ET policies are often utilised as tools for enhancing territorial attractiveness, akin to promoting city tourism and industrial development. Using a mixed-method approach that includes semi-structured interviews and mapping workshops, we will analyse the representations and aspirations of inhabitants regarding the future of their living environment. This will help them envision an ecologically sustainable and socially viable trajectory for their city and ascertain whether it differs from ET policies. The objective of this research is to identify alternative action levers beyond national directives for SMSCs concerning ET, distinguishing them by their unique trajectories, thus revealing other comparative advantages, notably their size and scale as primary ecological indicators.

Microstructural characterization of Stellite 6 alloy processed by electron beam melting

Stellite 6 alloy was subjected to electron beam melting (EBM) processing in this study. The main phases in the alloy are α-Co, ε-Co, M23C6 (M = Cr, Co, W, etc.), and M7C3 (M = Cr, Co, W, etc.) carbides. The microstructure of the EBM-processed Stellite 6 alloy comprises grains of relatively uniform sizes, with an average grain size of 11.1 μm. There is a relatively minor internal strain within the alloy. The majority of grains exhibit low intragranular misorientations, approximately around 0.5°, while a minority of grains display relatively larger intragranular misorientations, around 2.8°. The dominant {100} texture was developed in the build direction because of the fast growth of the <100> direction for a cubic crystal structure during solidification. The vertically aligned columnar grains contribute to the development of the <100> texture along the build direction. The elongated direction of columnar grains was parallel to the temperature gradient direction. This competitive growth direction at the solid-liquid interface results in slight tilts in the pole figures. The eutectic carbide phases are uniformly distributed along the grain boundaries. The cube–cube orientation relationships between the matrix and M23C6 carbide phase were identified as [001]α//[111]M23C6. The low stacking fault energy of the Stellite 6 alloy resulted in the formation of a high density of stacking faults within the grains. The interactions between stacking faults of different orientations were observed. Primary M7C3 carbides were found to transform into secondary M23C6 carbides, with a phase transition process observed where secondary carbides M23C6 surrounded primary carbides M7C3.

Negotiation in group interaction: Longitudinal evidence from Chinese postgraduate EFL learners

Negotiation serves to solve communication problems in second language (L2) learners’ peer interaction including negotiation of meaning (NoM), negotiation of form (NoF), negotiation of content (NoC) and negotiation of procedure (NoP). The four negotiation types are initiated through negotiation strategies. This study examined how negotiation types and negotiation strategies were distributed and how the distributions developed. The data came from five rounds of group interaction conducted by 52 Chinese postgraduate students in a semester. The findings reveal significant differences in the distributions of negotiation types and negotiation strategies. NoC occurred significantly more frequently than NoM and NoF. Each negotiation type had its major negotiation strategies and they had significantly higher percentages than the other negotiation strategies. Specifically, NoM was mostly initiated by clarification requests, NoF by recasts, NoC by explicit appeals for assistance, and NoP by direct negotiations. Both competitive and supportive growths occurred in the longitudinal trajectories. This study provides a comprehensive and developmental insight into negotiation in EFL learners’ peer interaction and offers significant pedagogical implications.

Impact of Rabi maize-legume intercropping system on growth, yield and crop competition in maize

Impact of Rabi maize-legume intercropping system on growth, yield and crop competition in maize

“Surviving” and “thriving” during uncertainty: Uncovering the stories of women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka

ABSTRACT Social-cultural, health, and economic disruption over the last decade—including that caused by terrorism, the global financial crisis, Brexit, and the COVID-19 pandemic—has heightened uncertainty, leading to changes in the economic landscape and ultimately, the way business is conducted. While there is a wealth of academic research examining uncertainty, studies that purposefully examine the experiences of women entrepreneurs—who are disproportionately affected by uncertainty—during such times are needed. A qualitative research study examined the psychological capacities (that is, self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience) and emotional experiences of women entrepreneurs from a small-scale flower industry in Sri Lanka before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings provide a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between women entrepreneurs’ psychological capital, positive and negative emotions, and their motivational drive to survive or thrive. Practical recommendations include (a) initiating development programs aimed at enhancing the overall competitiveness and global growth of small business within the floriculture industry, and (b) increasing government assistance through incentives to encourage growth, market access, and internationalization.

Effect of fear and non-linear predator harvesting on a predator–prey system in presence of environmental variability

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.

Competitive Strategy Orientation and Market Orientation for Product Innovative Success in Ethiopian SMEs

This empirical study aims into how market orientation and competitive strategy orientation affect the success of innovative products in small and medium-sized Ethiopian businesses. Small and medium-sized businesses are essential to economic growth, especially in developing nations like Ethiopia, where they are the main drivers of local development and the generation of jobs. However, these companies face significant challenges including scarce resources and volatile markets, necessitating the use of tactical approaches to preserve their competitiveness and foster growth. A mixed-methods approach was used in this cross-sectional study, with 396 respondents completing self-administered questionnaires for the quantitative data and semi-structured open-ended interviews for the qualitative data. The analysis was conducted using SPSS and the AMOS app. The findings show both an increase in competitive strategy orientation and market orientation results in an increase product inventive success, and also, an increase in product innovative success results in an increase in both market share and financial performance. The study also demonstrates the noteworthy and indirect positive relationships that market orientation and competitive strategy orientation have on market share and financial success. The outcomes showed how crucial these strategic orientations are to the capacity of Ethiopian SMEs to innovate, overcome challenges, preserve their competitiveness, and promote economic growth. The study emphasizes how important it is for Ethiopian SMEs to have a competitive strategy orientation that is in line with their market orientation in order to successfully innovate new products. Businesses can better respond to market needs and competitive pressures and promote innovation by utilizing insights from competitive analysis and market research, by offering insightful guidance on enhancing innovation and competitiveness in the Ethiopian context, as well as practical pointers for SME leaders and policymakers, this study fills a vacuum in the literature.

Spatial patterning and species coexistence: A case study using concentric circular vegetation patches in saline land

Spatial patterns in plant community structures within stressed ecosystems have drawn much attention in the field of ecology. However, the mechanisms underlying spatial formation and its impact on species coexistence and diversity remain controversial. In this study, we investigated concentric circular vegetation patches in coastal saline land, and analysed the spatial patterning of plant communities and associated soil physicochemical properties. Thereafter, we tested how the soil conditioned by plant communities from different locations within the vegetation patches influence the species growth and inter-specific competition. Our results show soil salinity enlarges in a centrifugal manner in horizontal direction in all patches. Soil salinity decreased and species diversity increased along with the increase of patch size. In addition, we found significant shifts in both the composition of plant communities and in soil physicochemical properties from outer to center. The results indicate that the pioneer species Suaeda salsa facilitated the subsequent species. However Suaeda salsa was inhibited and became inferior competitor in the soil conditioned by the subsequent species. We infer that the less-visible spatial patterns of soil physicochemical properties at small scales create ecological niches for specialized species, allowing them to coexist but not mix. We suggest that a trade-off between tolerance to salt stress and competitive ability under ameliorated conditions may underlie mechanisms of pattern formation in small scale. Our findings lend support to the idea that soil stress constraints community assembly and triggers spatial patterns, which, in turn, buffer the stress on plant communities and enhance species diversity.