Level Of Autonomy Research Articles

A study of strategic factors affecting post-cross-border acquisition technological innovation performance of the acquiring firms using m-TISM and MICMAC

PurposeThis study aims to identify the strategic factors and their effects on the post-cross-border acquisitions (CBA) technological innovation performance of the acquiring firms. It develops a hierarchical model to examine the interrelationship between identified strategic factors such as strategic flexibility, strategic ambidexterity, environmental dynamism, etc.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses modified total interpretive structural modeling qualitative methodology (m-TISM) to develop a hierarchical model and conducts a Matrice d’impacts croisés multiplication appliquée á un classment (MICMAC) analysis to show the interrelationship between strategic factors affects the acquirer’s post-CBA technological innovation performance. It determines the autonomous, dependent, linkage and independent strategic factors. It further uses comparative case analysis to empirically examine the strategic factors in real-time CBA situations.FindingsThis study shows the m-TISM-based hierarchical model highlighting the interrelation, level of autonomy, dependence and linkage among strategic factors affecting the acquirer’s post-CBA technological innovation performance. It suggests that strategic factors such as environmental dynamism, R&D competence, innovation capability and technological capability are largely autonomous and have significant driving power, whereas strategic ambidexterity and strategic flexibility are the connecting factors. post-M&A integration is the governing factor for technological innovation performance in CBA.Research limitations/implicationsThe strategists and practitioners could evaluate the key strategic factors having significant driving power for strategy formulation and implementing efficient policies. By implementing the m-TISM model acquiring a firm’s post-CBA performance can be enhanced. Future researchers might utilize quantitative methods like regression and structural equation modeling in the CBA context.Originality/valueThis study uses a novel m-TISM and MICMAC approach to identify the driving and dependent factors affecting post-CBA technological innovation performance. It further provides a detailed theoretical and conceptual understanding relating to the philosophy and establishes an interrelation amongst these under-researched strategic factors in CBA.

Evaluation of Financial Statements in Assessing the Financial Performance of the Local Government of South Labuhanbatu Regency

South Labuhanbatu Regency financial management is limited by established regulations, such as South Labuhanbatu Regent Regulation Number 66 of 2018 concerning Management of Information and Documentation Services within the South Labuhanbatu Regency Government. The South Labuhanbatu Regency Government carries out observations and research in carrying out research, as was carried out in research using a methodology published in 2018This study aims to evaluate the financial performance of the local government of South Labuhanbatu Regency based on the following factors: (1) Regional Autonomy Level Ratio (2) Regional Financial Dependence Ratio (3) Fiscal Decentralization Rate Ratio (4) Regional Original Revenue Effectiveness Ratio (5) Regional Original Revenue Efficiency Ratio (6) Regional Fiscal Management Effectiveness Ratio (7) Regional Tax Management Efficiency Ratio (8) Contribution Rate Ratio of Regional Owned Enterprises. The data is analyzed based on the theories of previous experts, then explained in detail for decision making on the financial performance of local governments. Based on the research conducted, the results show the regional financial performance of South Labuhanbatu Regency from 2013 to 2022 as follows: (1) The Regional Autonomy Level Ratio shows a very low level, with an average value of 6.98%, (2) the Regional Financial Dependence Ratio shows a high category, with an average value of 90.75%, (3) The Fiscal Decentralization Rate Ratio shows a very low level, with an average of 6.21%, (4) the Regional Original Revenue Effectiveness Ratio shows the less effective category with an average of 7.87%, (5) the Regional Original Revenue Efficiency Ratio shows the very efficient category with an average of 92.93%, (6) the Regional Fiscal Management Effectiveness Ratio shows the fairly effective category with an average of 97.74%, (7) the Regional Tax Management Efficiency Ratio shows the efficient category with an average of 19.37%, (8) The ratio of the degree of contribution of Regional-Owned Enterprises shows a contribution of 2.87%. So in this case the central government has failed in developing BUMD in South Labuhanbatu district. From the results of this analysis, it can be concluded that overall the development of South Labuhanbatu Regency carried out by the central government has been successfully implemented, this can be seen from the analysis of regional government financial reports which are reviewed from 8 measurement proportions, South Labuhanbatu Regency which has 4 measurement proportions that have been successful , while the proportion of 4 measurements that were unsuccessful, it can be seen that the proportion of measurements that were successful and those that were unsuccessful were the same. The suggestion in this analysis is that the South Labuhanbatu regional government can optimize human resources and natural resources as well as pay attention to infrastructure development and also increase the number of years of observation.

Factors Influencing Autonomy in Middle-Aged and Elderly Women with Urinary Incontinence.

Urinary incontinence (UI) is relatively common among middle-aged and elderly women and can have significant impacts on patients' physiological, psychological, and quality-of-life aspects. A higher level of autonomy can encourage better health behaviors in patients, so as to promote rehabilitation of the disease and improve their quality of life. The study is aimed at exploring the level of autonomy and influencing factors among middle-aged and elderly women with UI. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Shenzhen, China. Middle-aged and elderly women were asked to complete the Index of Autonomous Functioning scale (IAF), the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF), and the Urinary Incontinence Quality of Life (I-QOL) scale. Data were collected in January 2024 to March 2024. Descriptive statistics, univariate analysis, bivariate correlation and multivariate linear regression were used to analyze data. A total of 646 women completed the questionnaire. The means and standard deviations (SD) of the IAF section were 45.40 ± 8.92, those of the ICIQ-UI SF section were 11.54 ± 3.67, and those of the I-QOL section were 43.95 ± 9.83. Multivariate linear regression models for the IAF revealed that questionnaire scores were independently associated with family's monthly income, education level, regular exercise, UI severity, and I-QOL score (p < 0.05). The factors influencing the level of autonomy among middle-aged and elderly women with UI include family's monthly income, education level, regular exercise, UI severity, and I-QOL score. Higher levels of autonomy were observed among women with high family income, high education level, regular exercise habits, mild to moderate UI, and high quality of life.

Mixed-methods study of medical students’ attitudes toward peer physical examinations in Japan

BackgroundMost Japanese medical schools likely continue to rely on peer physical examination (PPE) as a tool to for teaching physical examination skills to students. However, the attitudes of medical students in Japan toward PPEs have not be identified. Therefore, we evaluated students’ attitudes toward PPE in a Japanese medical school as a preparation for developing a PPE policy tailored to the context of Japanese culture.MethodsWe conducted a mixed-methods study with an explanatory sequential approach, in which qualitative data were used to interpret the quantitative findings. Surveys and interviews were conducted with medical students and junior residents at a Japanese university. A total of 63 medical students and 50 junior residents responded to the questionnaire. We interviewed 16 participants to reach theoretical saturation and investigated the attitudes of medical students toward PPE and the themes emerging from the interview data, providing detailed descriptions of the quantitative findings.ResultsFemale participants were significantly more likely than male participants to report varying degrees of resistance to being a model patient during PPE (male: 59.7%, female: 87%, p < 0.001). Most of the participants who took on the role of patients that involved undressing were males. The participants expected improvements in issues related to the guarantee of freedom to refuse to be a model patient and measures to protect confidentiality. Approximately 22% of the participants reported that they witnessed incidental findings (including variations within the normal range) in front of other students during PPE.ConclusionsThe findings imply that medical students expect high levels of autonomy and confidentiality when volunteering as model patients during PPE. Thus, developing a PPE policy suitable for Japanese culture may be effective in establishing a student-centered PPE environment.

Zarządzanie algorytmiczne a autonomia w pracy platformowej

Algorithmic management v. autonomy in platform work In platform work, the majority of management functions are performed by computer algorithms, which are used by platforms to assign tasks, monitor and evaluate their performance and make decisions for the people working through them. This kind of practice has been called algorithmic management. Opinions on the impact of algorithmic management on people working are divided. On the one hand, the opinion is expressed that it can provide them with more autonomy, while on the other hand, the paradox of autonomy is pointed out, which can lead to longer working hours and an excessive increase in work intensity, as well as increased work-related stress. This paper shows the links between algorithmic management and the autonomy of people working through platforms, and illustrates the differences in autonomy levels depending on the type of work they do. Keywords: platform work, algorithmic management, autonomy in platform work

Readiness for Learner Autonomy in Online Environments: The Case of Thai University Students

In Thailand, learner autonomy has been introduced to enable students to manage their learning and engage with the abundant resources available, particularly for English language learning. This study examines the extent of learner autonomy and online language learning behaviors outside the classroom among Thai university students, as well as the factors influencing their autonomy. Quantitative data was collected through a questionnaire from 378 freshmen representing eight faculties: Allied Health Sciences, Medical Science, Public Health, Sciences, Agriculture, Law, Business, and Humanities. The findings revealed a relatively high level of learner autonomy among Thai university students. They were able to establish learning goals, select learning strategies and resources, and be aware of their weaknesses. However, the overall level of online language learning outside the classroom was moderate. Listening to English music was the most popular activity reported. Additionally, gender and English proficiency were identified as significant factors influencing the level of learner autonomy. These findings underscore the effectiveness of introducing learner autonomy but also highlight the need for teacher support in scaffolding online language learning outside the classroom.

Exploring the nexus of functional autonomy, depression, and resilience among elderly individuals

Population aging is a global reality that presents challenges to society. Issues such as functional autonomy, depression, and resilience stand out in promoting healthy aging. Functional autonomy, essential for independent daily activities, can be affected by depression, a common issue among the elderly, impairing motivation. Resilience, which is crucial for facing adversities, also influences well-being. The proposed study investigates the relationship among these factors in the elderly population, utilizing an interdisciplinary approach and quantitative methodology. The study's population comprises elderly individuals receiving care in Basic Health Units. Preliminary results indicate a good level of functional autonomy in the sample and associate depression with resilience. The research aims to promote effective interventions for quality of life and to comprehend the interconnection of these factors, thereby promoting healthy aging.

Functional autonomy of elderly individuals participating in a supervised physical exercise program

This study aims to identify the effect of a supervised physical exercise program on the levels of functional autonomy (FA) in elderly individuals. It was conducted as a quasi-experimental study. In the diagnostic assessment, data on Functional Autonomy were collected using the protocol of the Latin American Development Group for Maturity (GDLAM). The 66 elderly women (X̅ = 67.11 ± 5.75 years) in the sample group underwent 16 weeks of muscular strength and flexibility training, followed by a summative assessment. A reduction in the times of all battery tests was observed: W10M (∆% = -8.40%), RSP (∆% = -16.44%), RVDP(∆% = -2.01%), SRWC (∆% = -5.34%), and PTTs (∆% = -19.73%), indicating an improvement in FA (∆% = -11.39%, p &lt; 0.001). Analyzing the study's results, it is evident that, following the intervention, a significant improvement in the average classification of the sample group occurred. The initial AI score would have fallen within the regular classification in the diagnostic evaluation (28.11 - 33.71), with an average of 31.07. However, after the intervention, a reduction in the time taken to complete the activities led to a shift to the good qualification range (22.82 - 28.10), with an average summative AI assessment of 27.53. The study confirms the enhancement of FA in elderly individuals participating in a physical exercise program.

How the level of student research autonomy in higher education affects learning efficiency by shaping motivation: A case of instructional disconformity

This study aims to examine the effects of different instructional interventions (i.e., autonomy-supportive, controlling, or a combination thereof) on student motivation and academic research performance. Here, a total of 328 s-year Chinese students majoring in mathematics completed the Academic Motivation Scale (AMS) survey before and after the intervention involving an array of research-related assignments. Learners in the autonomy-supportive group showed a lower level of amotivation and higher intrinsic motivation compared to the pretest; the differences were 2.62 and 11.95 points. Their level of extrinsic motivation remained unchanged. The controlling intervention had the opposite effect, causing the mean extrinsic motivation score to increase by 10.25 points. The hybrid approach showed significant improvement in all three scales: amotivation (−3.82 points), extrinsic motivation (+4.35 points), and intrinsic motivation (+7.13 points). The autonomy-supportive teaching style corresponds to lower scores in mathematical modeling (72.30), linear algebra (74.62), and numerical analysis (77.65). High standard deviations indicate that research activity scores are spread out over a wide range. The controlling instructional approach yielded higher scores (83.95, 81.68, and 81.88 points, respectively) with the smallest standard deviations. Learners in the hybrid group scored the highest (86.98, 82.30, and 82.90 points, respectively), with moderate standard deviations indicating a well-balanced performance. The findings indicate that a hybrid approach, which combines autonomy support with instructor control, is the most effective in enhancing both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation among students, as well as improving their academic performance. The implications for higher education policy include the necessity of developing and implementing hybrid learning models that cater to the individual needs of students while providing the requisite level of support and oversight.

Deep Reinforcement Learning and Discrete Simulation-Based Digital Twin for Cyber–Physical Production Systems

One of the goals of developing and implementing Industry 4.0 solutions is to significantly increase the level of flexibility and autonomy of production systems. It is intended to provide the possibility of self-reconfiguration of systems to create more efficient and adaptive manufacturing processes. Achieving such goals requires the comprehensive integration of digital technologies with real production processes towards the creation of the so-called Cyber–Physical Production Systems (CPPSs). Their architecture is based on physical and cybernetic elements, with a digital twin as the central element of the “cyber” layer. However, for the responses obtained from the cyber layer, to allow for a quick response to changes in the environment of the production system, its virtual counterpart must be supplemented with advanced analytical modules. This paper proposes the method of creating a digital twin production system based on discrete simulation models integrated with deep reinforcement learning (DRL) techniques for CPPSs. Here, the digital twin is the environment with which the reinforcement learning agent communicates to find a strategy for allocating processes to production resources. Asynchronous Advantage Actor–Critic and Proximal Policy Optimization algorithms were selected for this research.

Learner Autonomy, Language Learning Strategies and English Language Proficiency of Filipino Senior High School Students

This study assessed students’ knowledge by looking at their learner autonomy in English language learning, the extent of language learning strategies and their English language proficiency. A descriptive method of research was used in this study. The respondents of this study were senior high school students of Magsaysay District during the second semester of the Academic Year 2022-2023. They were selected through a proportional random sampling technique. Several instruments were used by the researcher including the survey questionnaires about learner autonomy in English language learning, the extent of language learning strategies as well as the students’ English language proficiency. It was found that the senior high school students of Magsaysay District have a high level of learner autonomy in English language learning in terms of cognitive, affective motivational, action-oriented and social while moderate in terms of metacognitive. Senior high school students of Magsaysay District have a high level of language learning strategies in terms of compensation, social, metacognitive, cognitive, memory and affective. They have an average level of English language proficiency in terms of grammar, vocabulary and reading comprehension. Findings also showed that there is a significant relationship between learner autonomy in English language learning and language learning strategies, between language learning strategies and English language proficiency. However, learner autonomy in English language learning does not affect English language proficiency. Furthermore, results indicate that cognitive best predicts learning language strategy, as well as English language proficiency and cognitive strategy best predicts English language proficiency. In conclusion, the higher the learner autonomy in English language learning, the higher the extent of language learning strategies and the higher the extent of language learning strategies, the higher the English language proficiency.

A Digital Math Game and Multiple-Try Use with Primary Students: A Sex Analysis on Motivation and Learning.

Sex differences have been a rarely addressed aspect in digital game-based learning (DGBL). Likewise, mixed results have been presented regarding the effects according to sex and the conditions that generate these effects. The present work studied the effects of a drill-and-practice mathematical game on primary students. The study focused on an analysis by sex, measuring motivation and learning in the practice activity. Also, two instructional mechanics were considered regarding the question answering to search for possible differences: a multiple-try feedback (MTF) condition and a single-try feedback (STF) condition. A total of 81 students from four courses and two schools participated in the intervention. The study's main findings were as follows: (a) the girls outperformed the boys in terms of the students' learning gains; (b) the girls presented lower levels of competence and autonomy than the boys; (c) under MTF, the girls presented lower levels of autonomy but no differences in competence contrasted with the boys; (d) under STF, the girls presented lower levels of competence but no differences in autonomy contrasted with the boys; (e) no sex differences existed in interest, effort, and value, in general, as per the instructional condition. This study enhances the knowledge of sex differences under diverse instructional settings, in particular providing insights into the possible differences by sex when varying the number of attempts provided to students.

Strengthening contraceptive counselling services to empower clients and meet their needs: protocol for a two-stage, multiphase complex intervention in Pakistan and Nigeria

BackgroundHigh-quality contraceptive counselling can accelerate global efforts to reduce the unmet need for and suboptimal use of modern contraceptives. This study aims to identify a package of interventions designed to...

Informing low back pain care from the ground up: Survey of national musculoskeletal triage physiotherapists in Ireland

BackgroundHealthcare is changing to meet the challenge of a rising musculoskeletal burden associated with the expanding, aging population. Clinicians, important stakeholders in healthcare provision, have crucial insights into service improvement, but clinician consultation is a shortcoming in healthcare development. In Ireland, specialist physiotherapist-led musculoskeletal (MSK) triage services operate at the primary-secondary care interface to expedite patient care. ObjectivesTo inform future development of low back pain (LBP) care in Ireland through profiling the operationalisation of the national MSK triage service for LBP, including access, referral management, clinical investigations, onward referral options, access to multidisciplinary team (MDT) services and integration with primary healthcare services. DesignCross-sectional observational study using a bespoke, anonymous electronic survey. ParticipantsThirty-eight clinical specialist physiotherapists working in national programme Irish MSK triage services. ResultsThirty-eight MSK Triage physiotherapists submitted responses (response rate 72%). There was considerable site-dependent variation in LBP service provision, with discrepancies in access to triage services, wait times, referral processing and prioritisation, access to clinical investigations and onward referral options. Most respondents (81%) reported wait times exceeding the three-month target; 75% reported that the level of clinical autonomy associated with their role limited service efficiency; 75% were dissatisfied with primary-secondary care service integration. Respondents identified insufficient availability of primary care multidisciplinary services. ConclusionLack of standardisation of LBP services exists in Ireland. Services would benefit from improved standardisation, reduced wait times, national accreditation and a defined scope of advanced physiotherapy practice and the development of nationwide community multidisciplinary infrastructure with enhanced interservice communication.

Automatic Ground-Truth Image Labeling for Deep Neural Network Training and Evaluation Using Industrial Robotics and Motion Capture

Abstract The United States Navy (USN) intends to increase the amount of uncrewed aircraft in a carrier air wing. To support this increase, carrier-based uncrewed aircraft will be required to have some level of autonomy as there will be situations where a human cannot be in/on the loop. However, there is no existing and approved method to certify autonomy within Naval Aviation. In support of generating certification evidence for autonomy, the United States Naval Academy (USNA) has created a training and evaluation system (TES) to provide quantifiable metrics for feedback performance in autonomous systems. The preliminary use case for this work focuses on autonomous aerial refueling. Prior demonstrations of autonomous aerial refueling have leveraged a deep neural network (DNN) for processing visual feedback to approximate the relative position of an aerial refueling drogue. The training and evaluation system proposed in this work simulates the relative motion between the aerial refueling drogue and feedback camera system using industrial robotics. Ground-truth measurements of the pose between the camera and drogue are measured using a commercial motion capture system. Preliminary results demonstrate calibration methods providing ground-truth measurements with millimeter precision. Leveraging this calibration, the proposed system is capable of providing large-scale datasets for DNN training and evaluation against a precise ground truth.

Examining the Drivers and Boundary Conditions of Social Innovation: Evidence from MNE Subsidiaries in a Developing Economy

Although social innovation can help multinational enterprise (MNE) subsidiaries create social value for developing countries, they often encounter significant challenges in successfully implementing social innovation projects. This research applies the knowledge-based perspective to propose and test a theoretical framework to explain why MNE subsidiaries differ in their ability to pursue social innovation successfully in a developing country. The framework contends that MNEs’ relationship learning contributes to social innovation variability under varying levels of subsidiary autonomy and mode of entry. Analysis of primary data collected from 207 subsidiaries of MNEs operating in Ghana shows that relationship learning has a positive relationship with social innovation. Further analysis reveals that subsidiary autonomy enhances the positive association between relationship learning and social innovation, and that this moderating effect is stronger for subsidiaries with equity entry mode as opposed to non-equity entry mode. These insights advance the limited understanding of the antecedents of MNEs’ social innovation in developing countries and offer guidance on how MNE subsidiaries can successfully pursue social innovation interventions in a developing country.

Measures to preserve the mental health of sailors when working on autonomous surface vessels

Currently, all sectors of the national economy are subject to rapid processes of digital transformation, which requires the restructuring of both production processes and the improvement of the personnel selection system. The field of maritime transport is no exception, which has recently been focused on the active development of autonomous maritime shipping. The introduction of autonomous ships into operation radically changes the working conditions of ship crew members, including due to a significant reduction in their number. As a result, in the near future, seafarers will be forced not only to work in difficult conditions caused by maritime specifics, but also to experience the additional impact of a limited ship crew. The lack of necessary skills and training among current ship crew members to work in the new realities, as well as the high risk of impairment of their mental health, shows the objective need to find new approaches to the training and selection of seafarers. In order to develop recommendations for improving the rules for training, recruiting and selecting seafarers to work in conditions of a limited ship crew, the article studied regulations and levels of autonomy of sea surface vessels. A survey was conducted among active sailors, which made it possible to identify key problems on the stated issues, and also studied the types of temperament, personality and accentuation.

What is disability history the history of?

This article has two connected aims. First, to contour the boundaries of modern disability history through outlining its development and second, to provide a new methodological agenda for disability history. The design model of disability has outlined an important new programme to integrate the social and medical models of disability by foregrounding materials. Yet 'disability things' (to use Ott's memorable term) have been part of disability history's genesis since the material turn, which started the process of social historians recovering the lives of those not recorded in textual sources through objects, including prosthetics. From considering objects as things, the influence of Science and Technology Studies scholars pushed disability historians to further consider objects as agents and objects in use. These approaches have highlighted the differential levels of autonomy and power that objects and their users have in making history. However, this focus on materials has highlighted visible and recorded disability over 'invisible' disability, which has perpetuated its opacity and created definitional difficulties around disability demarcation. Medical history methodologies aimed at revealing the 'patient view' can help bring people back into focus but uphold the categories of patients and biomedicine in a way that impedes the aims of disability scholars. Focusing on exactly what is hidden is less useful than focusing on how it is hidden, and science and technology study methodologies can illuminate these processes.

Autonomy and Respect among Postnatal Mothers during Maternity Care in a Tertiary Level Hospital

Background: Lack of respectful maternity care act as more powerful deterrents to skilled birth care utilization than other more commonly recognized deterrents such as geographic and financial obstacles. Ensuring high level of respectful maternity care encourage the women to utilize facility-based care, which is essential for improving maternal and neonatal health. Thus, the objective of the study is to find out autonomy and respect during maternity care among the postnatal mothers in a tertiary level hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 214 postnatal mothers receiving child birth services from the facility were selected by using non-probability purposive sampling technique. Analysis of data was done by using descriptive statistics (number, percentage, mean, standard deviation) and chi- square test was used for association between autonomy and respect and selected socio-demographic variables. Results: The study result indicated that (74.8%) of the respondents had high level of autonomy. Similarly, (71%) of the respondents reported that they experience high level of respect. A significant association was present between autonomy of postnatal mothers with caste (p=.027) and parity (p=.005) and a significant association was present between respect of postnatal mothers with type of delivery is with p value (.001). Conclusions: Hence, level of autonomy and respect tends to be high among postnatal mothers during maternity care and is associated with caste, parity and type of delivery. Continuous professional development programme for all cadres of health personnel should be conducted in respectful maternity care of maternity ward.

Impact of Parenting Styles on Adolescent Well-Being in China

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of parenting styles on adolescent well-being in China. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In China, authoritative parenting fosters adolescents' self-esteem and academic achievement, while authoritarian parenting is linked to lower self-esteem and increased anxiety. Permissive parenting correlates with lower academic achievement and greater risk-taking behavior. These findings emphasize the critical role of parenting styles in adolescent well-being, advocating for authoritative practices for positive outcomes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Attachment theory, social learning theory &amp; ecological systems theory may be used to anchor future studies on the impact of parenting styles on adolescent well-being in China. Parenting interventions should prioritize promoting authoritative parenting practices, characterized by warmth, support, clear communication, and appropriate levels of control and autonomy. Policymakers should prioritize investing in programs and initiatives that support positive parenting practices and enhance parental support networks.