Equity Issues Research Articles

Nothing Comes Without Its World – Practical Challenges of Aligning LLMs to Situated Human Values through RLHF

Work on value alignment aims to ensure that human values are respected by AI systems. However, existing approaches tend to rely on universal framings of human values that obscure the question of which values the systems should capture and align with, given the variety of operational situations. This often results in AI systems that privilege only a selected few while perpetuating problematic norms grounded on biases, ultimately causing equity and justice issues. In this perspective paper, we unpack the limitations of predominant alignment practices of reinforcement learning from human feedback (RLHF) for LLMs through the lens of situated values. We build on feminist epistemology to argue that at the design-time, RLHF has problems with representation in the subjects providing feedback and implicitness in the conceptualization of values and situations of real-world users while lacking system adaptation to real user situations at the use time. To address these shortcomings, we propose three research directions: 1) situated annotation to capture information about the crowdworker’s and user’s values and judgments in relation to specific situations at both the design and use-time, 2) expressive instruction to encode plural values for instructing LLMs systems at design-time, and 3) reflexive adaptation to leverage situational knowledge for system adaption at use-time. We conclude by reflecting on the practical challenges of pursuing these research directions and situated value alignment of AI more broadly.

From Hong Kong to the UK: A Community and Public Health Nursing Researcher's Reflections on an International Fellowship.

Our globalized world means that most public health challenges cannot be tackled alone; they require unified and collaborative working across countries. Overseas fellowships offer an immersive experience that empowers nursing researchers to enhance global collaborations and synergize diverse research expertise from various cultural contexts. This enriched collaboration leads to more innovative solutions to public health issues and significantly enhances the overall impact of their research. This paper presents a self-reflection from the perspective of a community and public health nursing researcher, based in Hong Kong. During a 2-month research secondment at a university in the UK, I explored ways to leverage my fellowship to strengthen global connections, expand collaborations, and enhance my research capabilities in addressing health equity issues among LGBTQ+ populations, particularly concerning sexual violence. By sharing my journey, I aim to inspire more nursing researchers to engage with global academic communities and collectively advance global public health initiatives.

Teachers’ perspectives and practices relating to refugee girls: a mixed-methods multidisciplinary survey

ABSTRACT Teachers’ perspectives are key to understanding practice and support for high-risk groups like refugee children. This mixed-methods multidisciplinary study explored primary teachers’ perspectives and skills on issues of equity, migration and social-emotional skills, using an online survey. The survey contained quantitative perspective questions and qualitative scenarios. Triangulated results suggested that teachers’ perspectives around equity and social-emotional skills differ from their practice when responding to student scenarios. Their perspectives on migration, however, are aligned with their scenario responses. Results show a skill gap that may impact teachers’ ability to support refugee children in adjusting to and thriving in their classrooms.

Transforming Higher Education Towards Economic Development: A Zimbabwean Case Study

This study is a systematic review of research on higher education in Zimbabwe, in particular, it assesses the contribution of higher education towards engendering socio-economic development. This is achieved through identifying higher education activities prioritised in research during the study period which spans a three-year period from 2021 to 2023. This period comes just after the introduction of Education 5.0, which includes innovation and industrialisation. Furthermore, the articles are assessed on whether they address socio-economic development issues. A total of 41 abstracts of research articles were subjected to qualitative content analysis. The findings reveal five major activities that research has focussed on in priority order: teaching and learning; quality in education; management operations and policy; knowledge and research; and equity and equality. Furthermore, while the analysis indicates that the prioritised activities contribute towards socio-economic development, the nuances of balancing political, individual and epistemic priorities affecting higher education institutions are brought to the fore. The identified activities underscore the need for interventions at national, institutional, departmental and individual lecturer levels. However, there are concerns about the de-prioritisation of gender equality and equity in higher learning institutions in Zimbabwe. In conclusion, the research topics not only highlight the complexities and the dynamics faced by higher education institutions in Zimbabwe in playing their expected role of contributing to socio-economic development but also the need to foreground specificity to allow for the identification of effective interventions and processes required to support higher education’s goal of contributing towards economic growth. The study further concludes that the neglect of equity and equality issues may be detrimental to educational outcomes geared towards economic growth.

DESEMPENHO ECONÔMICO-FINANCEIRO DAS EMPRESAS LISTADAS NO ÍNDICE DE SUSTENTABILIDADE EMPRESARIAL ISE B3

The study investigates the effect of including companies in the theoretical portfolio of the Corporate Sustainability Index (ISE B3) on the average values of financial indicators. The variables of interest encompassed general liquidity (ILG), general indebtedness (IEG), return on investment (ROI), and return on equity (ROE). The ISE B3 consists of companies selected based on financial and sustainability criteria, with financial indicators crucial for monitoring business performance. The methodology was descriptive, quantitative, and qualitative, with hypothesis testing on two databases, including companies listed on the B3 between 2013 and 2022, comparing those that were included and those that were not included in the ISE B3 portfolio. Results revealed that companies included in the ISE B3 portfolio had higher ROI during the membership period, while those outside the portfolio showed higher ILG, indicating better liquidity. IEG was higher for companies outside the portfolio, suggesting higher indebtedness, while ROE was superior for companies included in the portfolio, indicating higher profitability on equity. Inclusion in the ISE B3 portfolio significantly influenced IEG, suggesting lower indebtedness for included companies, while ILG also showed statistically significant differences, indicating lower liquidity for companies in the portfolio, with ROI and ROE demonstrating significance at different levels, suggesting higher profitability returns for investments and equity in these companies. Further investigation of other indicators is recommended to better understand the variations influenced by companies' participation in the sustainability journey.

An Empirical Study on Asset Pricing Models Based on The Chinese A-Share Market

Based on the analysis of the A-share markets in Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchange from 2000 to 2023, this paper systematically evaluates the applicability and explanatory power of the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM), the Fama-French Three-Factor Model (FF3) and the Fama-French Five-Factor Model (FF5) in the Chinese market. The study finds that although CAPM has some explanatory power in the early stage, the three-factor and five-factor models can better explain the cross-sectional changes in stock returns as the market develops. In the descriptive statistics, each factor's volatility and correlation reveal the Chinese market's unique characteristics, such as the relative strength of small-cap and growth stocks. In the regression analysis, the results of the Fama-MacBeth regression showed that the significance and explanatory power of the market factor, size factor and value factor were different in different models. Further robustness analysis reveals the COVID-19's impact on the model's performance through the sub-period analysis. This paper provides a new perspective on understanding the asset pricing of China's A-share market and a theoretical basis for investors' investment decisions. It also points out the limitations of existing models in explaining emerging market equity returns. It suggests that future research can deeply explore the performance of more factors in different market environments.

Socioeconomic and demographic factors predictive of same day access utilization in outpatient radiation oncology.

Access to medical care extends to not only the timely and appropriate receipt of services but also addresses inclusivity and underlying determinants of health. Given that patients from disadvantaged backgrounds have been shown to be more likely to experience delays in care, a same day access scheduling initiative was proposed to address this equity issue. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate our experience, focusing on identifying socioeconomic and demographic patterns of same day access utilization. From March 2021 to January 2023, all patients referred for new consultation to a tertiary care-based radiation oncology department were offered same day appointments as part of a prospective pilot initiative. Descriptive statistics were used to identify factors predictive of utilization. On multivariate analysis, patient characteristics independently associated with higher odds of same day access utilization included low-income status ([OR]=3.70, 95% CI (1.47-6.14)) and Black or Latino race ([OR]=4.05, 95% CI: 1.72-9.11). While we were unable to acquire data on actual clinical outcomes for patients opting for same day appointments, the enthusiasm for this program was obvious. Patients from disadvantaged backgrounds and vulnerable segments of the population were more likely to elect for same day appointments. Implications on health equity are discussed. Patient-centered approaches to overcome barriers of access can potentially help ensure that care is equitable. Our findings, representing the first published data analyzing a longitudinal experience with same day appointments in oncology, strongly suggest that certain disadvantaged populations may benefit more from access initiatives.

Enhancing Inclusion, Equity, and Access: An Analysis of Higher Education Policies in Nepal

Higher education is the backbone for the human resource development which are crucial for the economic and socio-cultural development of any country. Unlike other sector, higher education is imperative not only for the welfare of the human beings but also fundamental for nation building through innovation in areas that concern the society. The aim of this paper is to critically analyze the policy arrangements of higher education in Nepal and its impact on enhancing inclusion, equity and access. Adopting Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) research method which is combined with policy review, it is found that though commendable efforts by the government and the commission have been continuing, the issues of access, equity, and inclusion remain still lacking in some areas. Therefore, more policy and programmatic actions are necessary for improvement the situation. If the policy recommendations outlined above are seriously considered by the Government of Nepal, the commission, universities, and other relevant bodies, it is possible to further promote and improve the state of access, equity, and inclusion in Nepal’s higher education.

Macroeconomic perceptions, financial constraints, and anomalies

This paper studies the heterogeneous effects of subjective macroeconomic expectations on the cross-section of equity returns. We argue that an upward revision in expectations of macroeconomic productivity might be accompanied by an excessive increase in investment and external financing, inflated current equity prices, and thus lowered subsequent returns, particularly for financially constrained firms. Thus, following upward revisions in expectations of macroeconomic productivity, subsequent returns are relatively low for small firms, value firms, low-investment firms, risky firms, unprofitable firms, low-quality firms, and financially distressed firms—all of which are more financially constrained. In sharp contrast, following downward revisions in expectations of macroeconomic productivity, these categories of firms earn relatively high subsequent returns. We find that revisions in subjective macroeconomic expectations induce strong predictable time variation in a large set of anomalies. In particular, favorable revisions in expectations of macroeconomic productivity predict significantly stronger profitability, quality, distress, and low-risk anomalies but weaker value, investment, and size anomalies.

THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EDUCATION

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education is transforming the landscape of teaching and learning, offering innovative solutions and personalized learning experiences. This article explores the multifaceted role of AI in education, beginning with its historical evolution and current applications, including personalized learning, intelligent tutoring systems, and administrative automation. The benefits of AI, such as enhanced learning opportunities and improved student engagement, are weighed against challenges like equity issues and ethical concerns.

Beyond Farm Productivity: Transforming the Philippine Food System to Address Equity, Consumer Health, and Environmental Issues

Beyond Farm Productivity: Transforming the Philippine Food System to Address Equity, Consumer Health, and Environmental Issues

Affordable Pricing of CRISPR Treatments is a Pressing Ethical Imperative.

Casgevy, the world's first approved CRISPR-based cell therapy, has been priced at $2.2 million per patient. Although this hefty price tag was widely anticipated, the extremely high cost of this and other cell and gene therapies poses a major ethical issue in terms of equitable access and global health. In this Perspective, we argue that lowering the prices of future CRISPR therapies is an urgent ethical imperative. Although we focus on Casgevy as a case study, much of our analysis can be extrapolated to the controversies over affordable access to other gene and cell therapies. First, we explain why this first-of-its-kind CRISPR therapy might be so expensive. We then analyze the ethical issues of equity and global health of early CRISPR treatments. Next, we discuss potential solutions to lower the prices of CRISPR gene therapies. We conclude that the approval of CRISPR transforms our obligations of justice and compels us to bring future gene therapies to the maximum possible number of patients with serious genetic diseases at affordable prices.

Peran Penghindaran Kebangkrutan dalam Mengakselerasi Earning Management

This study aims to analyze the impact of financial distress on earnings management within companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from 2019 to 2021. Utilizing a purposive sampling technique, the research focuses on 44 companies that are noted for their special status on the IDX. Key control variables examined include company size, leverage, cash flow operations (CFO), growth, profitability ratios (ROA), equity issuance (EISSUE), and debt issuance (DISSUE). The findings reveal that financial distress significantly and negatively influences earnings management, indicating that distressed companies are less likely to engage in manipulative financial reporting. Furthermore, the study identifies that all control variables contribute to a nuanced relationship between financial distress and earnings management. Specifically, variables such as size, CFO, leverage, ROA, EISSUE, and DISSUE exhibit a significant positive impact on earnings management, suggesting that larger companies with higher leverage and profitability are more prone to earnings manipulation. Conversely, the growth variable demonstrates a significant negative effect, implying that companies experiencing growth are less likely to manage earnings. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamics between financial distress and corporate financial behavior, offering valuable implications for investors, regulators, and policymakers.

Desafios e perspectivas na judicialização da saúde na América Latina: considerações sobre o fenômeno no Brasil e na Colômbia

Objective: The present study aims to understand how the judicialization of health develops as a global phenomenon, with particular emphasis on Latin American contexts, considering Brazil, and Colombia. Methodology: A literature review methodology supported by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses tool was adopted. The research was conducted using specific descriptors, and search strategies were carried out in the PubMed, MEDLINE, Lilacs, SciELO, CRD, CDSR, BVS, and BIREME databases. Articles published between 2010 and 2024 that discuss the judicialization of health, considering Portuguese, Spanish, or English languages, were selected. Results: The search resulted in 455 articles, of which 18 met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of the selected articles reveals the need for balanced solutions that respect individual rights without compromising the accessibility and quality of collective healthcare. The challenges imposed by judicialization are highlighted, such as issues of equity, financial sustainability of health systems, and resource prioritization. Conclusion: It concludes by emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving legislative adjustments, improvements in health system management, health education, and the promotion of equitable public policies. Submission: 05/29/24| Review: 08/16/24| Approval: 08/16/24

Analysis of selected economic data of Polish paper processing enterprises in comparison to total manufacturing

This study focuses on the analysis of the dynamics of selected economic data and indicators describing the economic condition of paper processing industry enterprises compared to total manufacturing. The results of the analysis showed that the lowest dynamics of selected economic data in 2019-2020 for both sectors was recorded. The paper processing industry achieved the highest dynamics of net financial result and total revenues in 2021 and 2022; the dynamics of the examined values was slightly lower than observed for total manufacturing. In 2021-2022 a clear upward trend in profitability indicators was observed – values of return of equity and net profitability turnover indicators were at a higher level than in total manufacturing.

Section 15: How Indigenous Use of the Charter Tool is About Returning to Respect Not Creating Equity

Some Canadians view the concept of freedom in relation to government involvement differently, particularly when government presence is seen as oppressive or colonizing. While Indigenous communities in Canada may not always view the current governance structure as reflective of their own traditions, they recognize the necessity of using it to navigate challenges. Indigenous groups utilize section 15 to address inequalities that stem from historical colonialism, seeking to restore balance in a manner consistent with pre-colonial ideals. Prior to the repatriation of the constitution, attempts to address equity issues through the legal system were often met with limited success, prompting Indigenous women in Canada to take their gender equity concerns to the United Nations with respect to the Indian Act. Following the repatriation, section 15 has provided a platform for Indigenous peoples to address policies and laws that unfairly disadvantage certain groups in comparison to others, thereby promoting fair treatment from the government. This discussion aims to explore how Indigenous communities utilize Section 15 as a tool to address issues of unequal treatment and advocate for equity that aligns with traditional pre-colonial values.

THE NEW NORM: EVALUATING BLENDED LEARNING IN SCIENCE EDUCATION – A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

In recent years, the educational landscape has transformed significantly, with blended learning emerging as a pivotal approach in science education. This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) examines the incorporation of blended learning, which incorporates traditional in-person teaching with online learning activities, presenting distinctive opportunities to improve student engagement, accessibility, as well as educational outcomes. However, the adoption of blended learning in science education encounters challenges, including digital equity issues, technology access, as well as the necessity for professional development for educators. Utilizing the PRISMA framework, this review systematically identifies, screens, and analyses relevant studies from Web of Science (WoS) as well as Scopus databases, focusing on publications from 2022 to 2024. Out of 1069 initial publications, 22 studies were chosen for in-depth analysis. Here, the findings reveal that blended learning environments foster critical thinking as well as problem-solving skills, which are vital for scientific inquiry, while also addressing limitations of traditional education, such as large class sizes and limited resources. However, challenges like technological access and teacher training persist. The review emphasizes the significance of strategic implementation as well as the need for a balanced approach that incorporates both synchronous and asynchronous learning formats. In conclusion, blended learning represents a paradigm shift in science education, offering a dynamic and flexible approach to Teaching and Learning (TnL). By critically evaluating its effectiveness and tackling the related challenges, educators can fully leverage blended learning to improve science education as well as equip students for future demands. This review provides insights into best practices for successful implementation, emphasizing the transformative potential regarding blended learning in improving educational outcomes.

Deepening awareness of inequities: investigating an advocacy project in early childhood teacher education

ABSTRACT An important goal for early childhood teacher education is to prepare teachers who advocate for policies leading to greater equity for families, young children, and the early childhood profession. This study investigated the extent to which an early childhood policy and advocacy course with an embedded advocacy project increased undergraduate students’ knowledge about inequities in early childhood as well as their attitudes toward adopting an active role in advocating for equitable child and family policies. Qualitative analysis of written reflections revealed that the project increased students’ knowledge about equity issues at a surface level and, for some students, more deeply, especially relating to specific topics of project focus. A few students even described new insights for equity-minded leadership. Several students also became more aware of inequities beyond their own project and articulated a commitment to recognize and address inequities through advocacy. Implications for early childhood teacher preparation are discussed.

Airline industry equities under external uncertainty shocks

We gauge the impact of news and other relevant external uncertainties facing airline firms via an equity market lens. Using local projections, we establish that rising investors’ fear shocks have long-lasting negative effects on airline industry equity returns, while increasing geopolitical, climate policy, and fuel cost uncertainties have comparatively short-lived impacts. Our results are robust to several alternative model specifications, including a pre-pandemic subsample. Based on our findings, we provide a promising avenue for future research in airline financial management.

Toward a new model for the successful implementation of information and communication technologies in education

The design of our Information and Communication Technologies for Education (ICT4E) implementation model highlights its adaptability to local realities, considering available resources, existing technological infrastructures, and the specific needs of learners. However, it is crucial to recognize that the inherent variability of educational contexts and resource constraints can present challenges to a generalized application of the model. In addition, the rapid pace of technological change can have an impact on the ongoing training of teachers, requiring constant vigilance to maintain the relevance of their pedagogical skills. Despite these challenges, our model stands out for its adaptable approach, encouraging ongoing adjustments to respond effectively to the diversity of educational environments. In addition, the prospect of research and innovation, the promotion of interdisciplinary collaboration and the adoption of holistic evaluation are essential strategies for strengthening the robustness of our model. However, it is imperative to remain attentive to ethical considerations, the issue of equity and inclusion, and the long-term impact of integrating ICT into education. Ultimately, our model aspires to be a balanced solution, aware of the challenges and open to the developments needed to ensure the harmonious and optimal integration of ICT into today’s educational landscape.