Soft Factors Research Articles

Destructive soft factors influencing social security

Fostering spiritual development of everyone and improving the quality of life is both the goal and the most important condition for ensuring social security and the economic growth of the nation. With that in mind, an approach to reforming Russian economy is proposed based on research and reducing the influence of many destructive factors of post-industrial development that contribute to a decrease in social security. The author considers poorly researched soft factors, both economic and managerial, that contribute to reducing social security: destructive phenomena in the institutional system of the national economy, economic exploitation, economic selfishness, distortions of social justice, and malfunctions in the educational system.

Empresa inmobiliaria: diagnóstico para un manual de funciones

The management of organizations requires the integration of various elements that contribute to the formation of a correct organizational structure, for this the development of the manual of functions takes importance in contributing to the achievement of objectives, even more so in the real estate activity, therefore, The objective is to establish how the diagnosis of the processes in real estate companies contribute to the elaboration of the functions manual as a contribution to their productivity. The research presents a qualitative approach with a descriptive scope, in which the interview was carried out as an information gathering technique to later establish hard and soft factors that are executed in these organizations, in order to identify coarse knowledge for the elaboration of the manual of functions taking into account the components of knowing, knowing how to do, knowing how to be, wanting to do and being able to do.

Critical soft factors for card-based production systems implementation: A multi-method study

Goal: Although card-based systems are a mature topic in literature, studies have focused mainly on how to optimize parameter of each system. The influential of human factors in the implementation of those systems have rarely been evaluated. Therefore, this study aims to understand what are the critical soft factors for a successful card-based systems implementation.
 Design / Methodology / Approach: A multi-method study is used in this research, combining systematic literature review, longitudinal case study, content analysis, interviews with experts and validations with two different groups.
 Results: The paper proposes a list of 15 soft factors critical to a successful implementation of card-based systems categorized in a “house framework” according to the level of analysis each factor is included.
 Limitations of the investigation: A single case study, although longitudinal, was conducted to proposed the list of factors. Therefore, further studies should be conducted to adapt the list to other organizations and contexts.
 Practical implications: Following the proposed list of factors, managers can increase the success in implementing a card-based system in their organizations.
 Originality / Value: This study combines different research methods in a unique way, since in the researchers' view, an individual method was not sufficient to answer the proposed research question. Moreover, the case study reported a failure implementation of a card-based system, a rare addition to literature which mainly presented success cases.

Soft Factors in Global ICT Sector Development: Studies with Bangladeshi and Rwandan ICT Workers

Soft Factors in Global ICT Sector Development: Studies with Bangladeshi and Rwandan ICT Workers

Holistic animation and functional solution for digital manikins in context of virtual assembly simulations

Assembly simulations in virtual reality were used increasingly in recent years. Even though a multitude of solutions exists in the commercial market, research is focusing on improving soft factors like usability and financial accessibility. Therefore, this paper proposes a holistic solution for animation and integration of functionality of a digital manikin in Unity. The solution is using Unity's integrated inverse kinematics system and physics engine. The result is a fully animated human manikin based on the tracking data of a head-mounted display and its two controllers, which is extrapolating motion data for untracked body parts. Furthermore, the solution enables the user to manipulate objects and explore the virtual environment. The solution is validated in comparison to established motion capture methods using joint error analysis.

Longing for Which Home: Evidence from Global Aspirations to Stay, Return or Migrate Onwards

Aspirations provide the underlying dynamics of the behavior of individuals whether they are realized or not. Knowledge about the characteristics and motives of those who aspire to leave the host country is key for both host and home countries to formulate appropriate and effective policies in order to keep their valued immigrants or citizens and foster their (re-)integration. Based on unique individual-level Gallup World Polls data, a random utility model, and a multinomial logit we model the aspirations or stated preferences of immigrants across 138 countries worldwide. Our analysis reveals selection in characteristics, a strong role for soft factors like social ties and sociocultural integration, and a faint role for economic factors. Changes in circumstances in the home and host countries are also important determinants of aspirations. Results differ by the host countries’ level of economic development.

Universality-breaking effects in e^+e^- hadronic production processes

Recent BELLE measurements provide the cross section for single hadron production in e^+e^- annihilations, differential in thrust and in the hadron transverse momentum with respect to the thrust axis. Universality breaking effects due to process-dependent soft factors make it very difficult to relate this cross sections to those corresponding to hadron-pair production in e^+e^- annihilations, where transverse momentum dependent (TMD) factorization can be applied. The correspondence between these two cross sections is examined in the framework of the Collins-Soper-Sterman factorization, in the collinear as well as in the TMD approach. We propose a scheme that allows to relate the TMD parton densities defined in 1-hadron and in 2-hadron processes, neatly separating, within the soft and collinear parts, the non-perturbative terms from the contributions that can be calculated perturbatively. The regularization of rapidity divergences introduces cut-offs, the arbitrariness of which will be properly reabsorbed by means of a mechanism closely reminiscent of a gauge transformation. In this way, we restore the possibility to perform global phenomenological studies of TMD physics, simultaneously analyzing data belonging to different hadron classes.

Association of hard and soft tissue factors with gingival recession in orthodontically treated patients: A retrospective study

Orthodontic treatment is thought as a contributory factor in the development of recession. The objective of this study was to determine the factors associated with a gingival recession in patients who underwent orthodontic mechano-therapy. A retrospective chart review of 72 post-orthodontic cases done at the dental clinics of Aga Khan University hospital that were treated from 2009 to 2017. After evaluating dental records patients were recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of gingival recession on posttreatment photographs. Patients in each group were further assessed on the following factors: (1) Lower incisor inclination (IMPA). (2) Tissue thickness on the facio-lingual dimension. (3) Alveolar bone height. (4) Alveolar bone thickness. The mean age of patients at the start of treatment was 16.56±5.66years. Gingival recession was found in 40.3% of our patients while 59.7% of patients had no recession found after orthodontic treatment. Univariable logistic regression was applied for factors associated with a gingival recession following orthodontic treatment which showed that the odds ratio of gingival recession in thin gingival biotype are 14.4 times more than in thick gingival biotype. Multivariable regression analysis showed that the cases had 10.2 times more recession in thin biotype than those in the thick gingival biotype while adjusting for pre- and posttreatment alveolar heights following orthodontic treatment and with a confidence interval [95% CI=2.69 to 38.40]. It was concluded from this study that 40% of patients developed gingival recession in one or more teeth during orthodontic treatment. Among different factors pre-treatment, gingival biotype of patients and male gender were the factors that were more associated with the development of gingival recession.

Flexible ferroelectric wearable devices for medical applications.

SummaryWearable electronics are becoming increasingly important for medical applications as they have revolutionized the way physiological parameters are monitored. Ferroelectric materials show spontaneous polarization below the Curie temperature, which changes with electric field, temperature, and mechanical deformation. Therefore, they have been widely used in sensor and actuator applications. In addition, these materials can be used for conversion of human-body energy into electricity for powering wearable electronics. In this paper, we review the recent advances in flexible ferroelectric materials for wearable human energy harvesting and sensing. To meet the performance requirements for medical applications, the most suitable materials and manufacturing techniques are reviewed. The approaches used to enhance performance and achieve long-term sustainability and multi-functionality by integrating other active sensing mechanisms (e.g. triboelectric and piezoresistive effects) are discussed. Data processing and transmission as well as the contribution of wearable piezoelectric devices in early disease detection and monitoring vital signs are reviewed.

CAT Model for Complex Evaluation of Organisational Maturity in Small and Medium Enterprises

This paper deals with the need to complexly evaluate maturity, management, stakeholder relationship and resources utilisation of an organisation. It searches for an assessment tool independent on time and industry contexts. The research was conducted in two phases. The literature review on a set of existing performance models did not find any suitable tool. Based on that, a new performance model was created to assess the maturity of an organisation, focusing on soft factors like its leadership, processes and culture. It had been tested using structured interviews with managers in Czech, Slovak, German and Chinese companies. The model is based on a set of 17 non-financial criteria, divided into categories Management, Stakeholders and Resources. The results are given for each criterion, category and as an overall score. This article briefly describes the developed CAT model, methodology of its creation and validation and explains how it can be applied as an assessment tool. Its results can be benchmarked among different organisations/overtime to track development progress. Implications for Central European audience: This model gives both practitioners and researchers a lean, yet powerful tool to evaluate the maturity of an organisation with structured and measurable results. The new possibilities for quantitative research using the CAT model are now available for researchers to assess even larger samples of organisations with reasonable effort. For practitioners, the value is in a quick discovery of own weaknesses/strengths with structured results and recommendations. Model structure and selection of respondents ensures that the results are measurable and cover views of both management and employees.

Soft factors from classical scattering on the Reissner-Nordström spacetime

We consider perturbations of the $4$ dimensional Reissner-Nordstr\"om spacetime induced by the probe scattering of a point particle with charge and mass moving on an unbound trajectory with an asymptotically large velocity. The resulting classical radiative solutions are the gravitational and electromagnetic bremmstrahlung. We use these classical solutions to derive the universal photon and graviton soft factor contributions at the tree level, which have the same form as noted in the literature. The soft factor expressions enable us to investigate the tail contribution to the memory effect in late time gravitational and electromagnetic waveforms. We find that generically, the contribution from the charge dominates that from the mass in the late time radiation.

TQM factors and organisational results in the EFQM excellence model framework: an explanatory and predictive analysis

PurposeWithin the framework of Total Quality Management (TQM) and the EFQM Excellence Model (EEM), the main objective of this paper is to develop a causal-predictive analysis of the relationships between soft and strategic-hard EFQM factors and the organisational results (customers, people, society and key results).Design/methodology/approachFrom a causal-predictive perspective, four EEM models, designed for each organisational result, are compared applying partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and using a sample with 225 Spanish organisations.FindingsThe results confirm that soft and strategic-hard EFQM factors constitute a socio-technical system in which there are multiple direct and indirect relationships, between these factors and the results. Finally, the predictive nature of the proposed models is confirmed, highlighting the predictive performance of the people results model.Practical implicationsThe results can lead to an improvement in organisational performance, as the developed models enable managers to anticipate the effects of their management decisions on those results concerning customers, people, society and key business results.Originality/valueFirst, a novel way of grouping TQM enabler factors has been proposed within the EEM framework. Second, four research models have been generated, which allow carrying out an in-depth study of the direct and indirect relationships, between soft and strategic-hard EFQM factors and result variables. Finally, this contribution has applied the most updated techniques in order to assess the prediction performance of the four research models posited.

How I do it — Second stage revision total knee arthroplasty

BackgroundInfection is a potentially devastating complication following primary total knee arthroplasty, and the traditional gold-standard treatment for chronic prosthetic joint infection has been in the form of a two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty. This involves a first stage – removal of all implants and infected material, with implantation of a temporary spacer – followed by a second stage which includes reimplantation with a definitive prosthesis. IndicationsAlthough the outcomes of single-stage and two-stage revision arthroplasty surgeries are similar, there are certain indications such as atypical or more virulent organisms, patient factors and soft tissue factors that would favour a two-stage approach. Surgical techniqueThe second stage revision procedure consists of explantation of the spacer with a debridement and synovectomy. Further samples are sent for microbiological analysis. Once the surgical field is clean and lavaged, the definitive prosthesis is implanted. ConclusionsA second stage revision total knee arthroplasty is a reliable procedure for the treatment of chronic prosthetic joint infection. There is a significant re-revision rate, predominantly due to recurrent deep infection.

The soft mathcal{S} -matrix in gravity

The gravitational mathcal{S} -matrix defined with an infrared (IR) cutoff factorizes into hard and soft factors. The soft factor is universal and contains all the IR and collinear divergences. Here we show, in a momentum space basis, that the intricate expression for the soft factor is fully reproduced by two boundary currents, which live on the celestial sphere. The first of these is the supertranslation current, which generates spacetime supertranslations. The second is its symplectic partner, the Goldstone current for spontaneously broken supertranslations. The current algebra has an off-diagonal level structure involving the gravitational cusp anomalous dimension and the logarithm of the IR cutoff. It is further shown that the gravitational memory effect is contained as an IR safe observable within the soft mathcal{S} -matrix.

Invasive group A streptococcal infections in North West England: epidemiology, risk factors and fatal infection

ObjectivesIn England, notifications of invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections have increased since 2015. We describe time trends, risk factors, as well as clinical and infection characteristics amongst iGAS cases in North West England, focussing on people who inject drugs (PWIDs), prisoners and homeless populations (referred to as risk groups), and analyse factors for fatal infection. Study designThe study design used was a cross-sectional study. MethodsData for all iGAS cases notified to Public Health England North West between January 2016 and May 2019 were used. Analysis consisted of time trend analysis, descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing to investigate differences in clinical and infection characteristics between risk and non-risk groups and binary logistic regression to identify factors associated with fatal infection. ResultsThere were 1353 cases. Two hundred and two were amongst risk groups, who were predominantly PWIDs in Greater Manchester. Soft tissue risk factors were widespread. There were differences in strain-type between risk and non-risk groups. Female gender, cancer, emm1.0 and emm5.23 were associated with increased odds of death, whilst cellulitis was associated with reduced odds. The relationship between age and death was U-shaped. ConclusionsiGAS has increased in North West England since 2016, including amongst PWIDs. This may be due to emm-type replacement, barriers to good hygiene and increasing colonisation.

Social network efficiency of multiple stakeholders on agricultural drought risk governance — A southern China case study

Social network research in respect of multi-stakeholders in the field of disaster risk governance is receiving increasing attention. Analyzing connection efficiency helps each stakeholder to coordinate relationships for disaster governance. Based on questionnaire and multi-indicator analysis, the study constructs a M-S-S-P-I (Multi-Scale-multi-Stakeholder-multi-Process-multi-Indicator) system and establishes a social network encompassing the government, village committee, household, and enterprise in drought risk governance. The results are as follows. (1) In the process of drought risk governance, the households are not sufficiently motivated to be adequately prepared and the government does not provide adequate instructions in the recovery. (2) From each stakeholder’s perspective, the averages of the connection proportion show a trend of enterprise (0.91) > government (0.65) > village committee (0.58) > household (0.12), and the ranges of the proportion are quite large. The social network of households displays features of closure and unbalance. (3) Considering the soft factors in efficiency evaluation, from the “quantity” view, the value of the village stakeholders is low and from the “quality” view, it presents a trend of the trust degree < communication convenience degree ≈ function understanding degree ≈ assistance effectiveness degree. The trust between stakeholders and the connection efficiencies of households and enterprises in the social network need to be strengthened. The purpose of this study is to provide references for enhancing cooperation efficiency among multiple stakeholders so that they are able to form a consilience of drought risk governance.

Do Institutions Influence Economic Growth?

Economic growth has been the subject of much focus throughout the history of economic thought as it has profound economic, social and political consequences. The sources of economic cycles are surrounded by intense and controversial scientific dispute. In our article, we want to contribute to the institutional economics debate by analysing selected institutional factors and testing their influence on economic growth. On a 2012-2018 dataset, we prove that soft factors such as property rights, freedom of corruption, level of freedom on different markets and other components of the Index of Economic Freedom and legal framework explain the differences in GDP per capita dynamics across countries. We present new evidence on how institutional factors determine economic growth. Unlike previously conducted studies, we use panel data and a set of general control variables in an attempt to respect causal inference. Moreover, we show that the mainstream economic conviction - more economic freedom leads to higher economic growth - fails in some cases, and regulation does not always hamper economic growth.

Statistical Capacity, Human Rights and FDI in Sub-Saharan Africa Patterns of FDI Attraction in Sub-Saharan Africa

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is commonly perceived as one of the main drivers of technological progress and socio-economic development. At the same time, FDI is often regarded as an instrument of stabilising authoritarian regimes, which disenfranchise the rights of citizens to increase rents generated by foreign firms. Given that both views are accurate, the improvement of human rights and economic development could constitute two conflicting goals. This particularly applies to Sub-Saharan Africa, where a sizeable number of countries are mired in poverty and governed by authoritarian power structures. In evaluating the importance of these soft factors, we examine two important institutional factors of FDI attraction: We address the question of whether human rights violations deter FDI attraction and explore whether FDI depends on the amount of available socio-economic information about the country to be invested in. For the latter, we use a novel variable, namely the Statistical Capacity Figures of the World Bank, which depicts an indicator of effectiveness of the national statistical systems. In order to analyse the relationship between human rights and FDI, we run a regression model covering 41 Sub-Saharan countries covering the years from 2006 to 2015.

Fundamental mechanical behavior of CMMOSC-S-C composite stabilized marine soft clay

This study aims to address the fundamental mechanical behavior of soft clay stabilized by the composite of citric-acid-modified magnesium oxysulfate cement, silica fume, and clinker (CMMOSC-S-C composite) at different initial soil-water contents (w), amounts of stabilizing agent (Wg), and curing time (T). X-ray diffraction analysis and Scanning electron microscopy indicate that the main products of the curing reaction can be summarized as 5·1·7 phase, gel, dolomite, pyrophyllite, and minor amounts of CaO and MgO, which could be attributed to the hydration, carbonation, ion exchange, and filling. The unconfined compressive strength tests, one-dimensional consolidation tests and unconsolidated undrained triaxial compression tests show that the unconfined compressive strengths (qu), secant Young's modulus (E50), and shear strength parameters (c and φ) are positively dependent on Wg and T. However, these parameters demonstrate a negative relationship with w. The compression efficient (a2–4) is positively and negatively related to w, Wg, and T. In view of these test results, empirical relationships between the fundamental mechanical parameters of CMMOSC-S-C composite stabilized soft clay and key effect factors (w, Wg, T) are developed to predict the qu, E50, a2–4, c, and φ values at any w, Wg, and T.

Factores de elección de marca de sodas en el consumidor a partir de un estudio meta-analítico

Los factores de elección de marca forman parte del análisis del comportamiento del consumidor con relación a los efectos generados por las empresas al momento de realizar una compra. Por tal razón, se estudió el modelo Customer Brand Based Equity (CBBE) con el propósito de enunciar la dimensión más significativa dentro del análisis de factores de elección de marca de sodas. El estudio posee un enfoque cuantitativo y cualitativo debido a que se analizaron los efectos generados a partir del estudio de cincuenta artículos indexados. El alcance de la investigación es correlacional, debido a que se estudió la relación de las variables de estudio y el modelo. El resultado principal reveló que el modelo es asociable a las variables de estudio, puesto que, se obtuvo un P valor de 0.0217. Sin embargo, se obtuvo un grado de inconformidad con la heterogeneidad IC=0.982. Como conclusión principal, se reveló que el modelo CBBE de Aaker (1996), es adaptable a las variables de estudio, no obstante, se determinó que la dimensión Lealtad hacia la marca, debe ser replanteada para el desarrollo de la investigación con respecto al consumo de sodas.