Theoretical Trends Research Articles

Qualities of papers we like: An editorial perspective

In this edition of Culture, Education, and Future, I think I can helpfully discuss the qualities we, the editors, seek in a paper. This discussion develops ideas that are not necessarily covered in author guidelines (see the CEF webpage); instead, these ideas reflect our preferences for the journal and the qualities that attract our attention. This editorial's audience is broad: It speaks to authors, reviewers, editors, and even those wanting to learn more about the dynamics of journal editors' decision-making. The first quality we seek is CEF preference papers that are theoretically or conceptually current. I am not referring only to its applicability to today’s administrators or teachers—although that is important as well—rather, this refers to papers that are responsive to current theoretical trends and movements. In 2001, Hunt and Dodge wrote a piece for The Leadership Quarterly in which they argued that had they gone to sleep 20 years earlier and just awakened, they would have found that leadership theory had not changed in the intervening years. This was a clear call for a new perspective on leadership. Hunt’s voice was quite influential, and others were making similar grumblings. Anyone with their “ear to the ground” would have realized that the theoretical wind was shifting. What evolved was a set of perspectives that described leadership as a collective rather than an individual activity. Like Hunt, we, the CEF editors, are looking for a scholarship that is aware of trends and aware of where the pressure points are in current thought. Second, to accomplish the first preference, we look for scholarship that demonstrates genuine expertise in the subjects developed in the paper. Of the many submissions I have read over the years, I find a depressing number that were obviously written by authors who exhibit a lack of mastery of the material they are discussing. They misinterpret or misapply ideas; they have not explored the weaknesses in the current literature on their subject, or they are not sufficiently mature in the subject to spot those weaknesses. For example, the literature on relationships between leaders and followers has been criticized for being ineffectively defined (i.e., it fails to clarify whether measures are defined as the perceptions of followers or as the differences in perceptions by leaders and followers; Gottfredson et al., 2020). Other submission authors may misunderstand incompatibilities between epistemologies, as when they use statistics (which assumes independencies among cases and stability across time) to evaluate a phenomenon that is clearly interdependent and changing; for more, see Cilliers, 1998).

Exploring Quantum Materials with Resonant Inelastic X-Ray Scattering

Understanding quantum materials—solids in which interactions among constituent electrons yield a great variety of novel emergent quantum phenomena—is a forefront challenge in modern condensed matter physics. This goal has driven the invention and refinement of several experimental methods, which can spectroscopically determine the elementary excitations and correlation functions that determine material properties. Here we focus on the future experimental and theoretical trends of resonant inelastic x-ray scattering (RIXS), which is a remarkably versatile and rapidly growing technique for probing different charge, lattice, spin, and orbital excitations in quantum materials. We provide a forward-looking introduction to RIXS and outline how this technique is poised to deepen our insight into the nature of quantum materials and of their emergent electronic phenomena. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

The Impact of Chip Technology Innovation on the Marketing Strategy of Consumer Electronics Products: A Case Study of Smartphones

Chip technology innovation has become the core driving force for the development of the smartphone industry, and its far-reaching impact on product performance optimization and marketing strategy transformation is particularly significant. This paper explores the theoretical connotation and development trend of chip technology innovation, and analyzes its key role in improving smartphone hardware performance, enhancing user experience and promoting market competition. In addition, through the case studies of two major brands, Apple and Huawei, it reveals the specific practice of the deep integration of chip technology and marketing strategy, including differentiated product positioning, technology-driven brand building and market promotion of innovative functions. The study shows that the breakthrough of chip technology not only gives smartphones significant technical advantages, but also provides strong support for brands to enhance market influence and user loyalty, thus enabling them to gain a competitive advantage in the rapidly changing consumer electronics market.

Causes and effects of contamination of water sources due to excessive use of agrochemicals and pesticides: bibliometric analysis

ABSTRACT This article conducts a bibliometric analysis of water pollution caused by agricultural pesticides, focusing on theoretical and methodological trends. The analysis uses Scopus databases and Bibliometrix and VOSviewer software tools to analyze 2,330 documents from 2013 to 2022. The research highlights the importance of environmental, agricultural, and biological sciences in addressing water pollution. The study suggests improving pesticide use, reducing fertilizer applications, and addressing the harmful impacts of contaminated fish on human health. The restriction of glyphosate use in the European Union caused economic losses for companies, and a follow-up on glyphosate use in crop applications was proposed. The study also evaluates chemical concentrations and recommends addressing aquatic ecotoxicological risks. Future research trends include increasing water use efficiency and quality, hydrogeological studies, watersheds and land use, and climate modeling and impacts. The research is unique in addressing both research trends and knowledge gaps in water pollution research in various aspects.

A review of multicultural communication dynamics in the U.S.: Highlighting challenges and successful strategies in a diverse society

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of multicultural communication dynamics in the United States, focusing on the challenges and strategies pertinent to diverse societal contexts. The main objectives were to explore theoretical frameworks, historical evolution, and current trends in multicultural communication, alongside identifying key challenges and effective strategies. The methodology encompassed a systematic review of literature, including peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and reports, with a focus on themes of anti-racism, equity, inclusion, and social justice in multicultural communication. Content and thematic analysis was employed to assess publication productivity and identify major themes. Key findings revealed the significance of various theoretical frameworks in understanding multicultural dynamics, with a historical shift from monolithic to inclusive communication approaches. Major challenges identified include language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and differing communication styles. Effective strategies highlighted include cultural sensitivity training, inclusive policies, and leveraging technology. The study also underscored the role of policy and regulation in shaping multicultural communication practices. The study emphasizes the complexity of multicultural communication in the U.S., suggesting practical recommendations for enhancing communication in diverse environments. These include implementing cultural competency training, adopting inclusive communication policies, and leveraging technology for barrier reduction. Future research directions proposed focus on longitudinal studies of communication strategies, the impact of emerging technologies, and cross-cultural comparative studies. This comprehensive analysis aims to contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society through improved multicultural communication practices.

Theoretical and methodological trends in scientific production on pedagogical practices in Physical Education in Latin America

Theoretical and methodological trends in scientific production on pedagogical practices in Physical Education in Latin America

A Historical Review of the Prevalence of Job Stress Theories.

Job stress theories have been developed and refined to better understand employee wellbeing. Now that the field is maturing, it is appropriate to review the theoretical trends and developments for future research and practical guidance. The current paper provides a historical review, with both objective (i.e., counts of published theories) and subjective evaluation of job stress theory. In Study 1, two trained raters coded theories used in job stress journals. The job demand-control (-support; JDCS) model was initially well-represented, but has been superseded more recently by theories that focus on multiple resources (e.g., the job demand-resource - JDR - model). Among non-job stress theories, motivation and affective theories have been well-represented within job stress research. Study 2 expanded the results of Study 1 through review of two international applied psychology journals with additional coding categories. Specifically, we identified empirical support for theories and researcher characteristics (i.e., national and professional affiliation). The JDCS model had the least full support according to a vote counting method, and resource models (e.g., JDR) the most. Germany and the Netherlands were the most represented locations, with the United States having the most international collaborations. Psychology and management were the most represented affiliations.

Integrating business intelligence and predictive analytics in banking: A framework for optimizing financial decision-making

Integrating Business Intelligence (BI) and predictive analytics in banking has become a pivotal strategy for optimizing financial decision-making. This review paper explores this integration's theoretical foundations, current trends, and challenges while proposing a comprehensive framework to enhance decision-making processes. The proposed framework emphasizes the importance of a unified data architecture, advanced data integration techniques, and the synergistic use of BI tools and predictive models. By examining the implications for banking institutions, the paper highlights how this integration can transform strategic and operational decisions, improve risk management, and drive personalized customer engagement. Additionally, future trends such as the adoption of AI, real-time analytics, and enhanced data governance are discussed, along with recommendations for banks aiming to implement this integration successfully. The findings underscore the transformative potential of combining BI and predictive analytics to foster innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage in the banking sector. Keywords: Business Intelligence (BI), Predictive Analytics, Banking Sector, Financial Decision-Making, Data Integration.

Examining the role of expectations in outsourcing success utilizing the hierarchy of effects model

PurposeThis paper aims to involve both the development of a quantitative measure of outsourcing success that integrates recent research findings on expectations and applying the hierarchy-of-effects (HOE) model to investigating the influence of success on client satisfaction and recommendation intention.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducted a global survey of information systems managers and Chief Information Officers from firms who have engaged in outsourcing and analyzed the data using partial least squares (PLS).FindingsThe study analysis demonstrates the impact of client expectations on perceived outsourcing success, client satisfaction and intention to recommend. This paper also discusses how findings of this study provide important implications for both researchers and practitioners.Originality/valueTo further investigate the theoretical trend toward examining the impact of expectations on outsourcing success, this study extends the foundational success research by quantitatively demonstrating the robustness of an outsourcing success construct that incorporates expectations. Moreover, this study extends the traditional models of success by incorporating factors from each of the stages of client behavior, including cognition, affect and conation.

THE SUBJECT OF PHRASEOLOGY AND THE PROBLEM OF ITS SYSTEMATIC STUDY

Summary. At the present stage of development of phraseology, interest has especially intensified in the development of theoretical directions and trends that make it possible to look with different eyes at the rich phraseological material accumulated over centuries and subject it to more careful comprehension and research. And above all, this is reflected in the boundaries of research, which are noticeably expanding, differentiating in the development of phraseology into a number of its individual subsystems. Key words: phraseology, idiom, phrase, semantic, linguistic

The Use and Misuse of East Asian History in IR Theorizing

Abstract The past two decades have witnessed a wave of research into the history of East Asian international relations (IR). Scholars seek to broaden the historical frames of reference in IR for both theory testing and theory generation. The article reviews this recent trend, examining its limitations and exploring future agenda. In studying historical East Asian IR, scholars have different expectations regarding whether their research would support, complement, or undermine mainstream Western IR. The spatial and temporal scope of their historical inquiries, as well as theoretical ambitions, therefore, differ significantly. Scholars no longer treat all East Asian history as simply one case, but as multiple cases with divergent patterns, and they recognize that the system consisted not solely of China but of multiple actors. In addition to contrasting East Asia with Western Europe, they explore also the similarities between East Asia and other non-Western regions. To advance the agenda, however, scholars must scrupulously navigate three tensions. They are: the tension between the “East” and “West”; the tension between the two disciplines of history and IR; and the tension between past and present. Future studies, therefore, must broaden their horizons in order to better transcend ethnocentrism and exceptionalism, refine their methodology both to avoid selection bias and conduct more sophisticated comparisons, and to maintain a proper distance from contemporary politics. Most importantly, they should combine high-quality historical research with cutting-edge IR theoretical trends to construct dynamic theories that could be applied to other regions.

Performance analysis and testing of LYSO-SiPM X-ray communication receiver

This paper introduces the characteristics of the LYSO-SiPM-based receiver used in X-ray communication (XCOM). The X-ray signal receiving scheme based on a scintillator and photodetector is an important part of the XCOM system. However, the inherent characteristics of the scintillator and photodetector hinder the improvement of the performance of the X-ray signal receiver. Thus, this paper proposes a comprehensive analysis model for modeling the counting statistical characteristics of the LYSO-SiPM-based receiver, and analyzes the effects of the receiver's characteristics on the communication performance of the OOK-modulated XCOM system. Furthermore, the LYSO-SiPM pulse X-ray signal receiver is optimized, and its performance in the XCOM experiment is tested. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical analysis trend, indicating that the proposed analytical model can be used for XCOM performance analysis and optimization.

COVID-19 and human resource management: status, trends and research directions

PurposeThis study aims to conduct an extensive bibliometric analysis of research across COVID-19 and human resource management (HRM). It captures an exhaustive conceptual understanding of theoretical foundations, research trends, developments and research directions in the HRM domain.Design/methodology/approachA set of 505 HRM and COVID-19-specific articles collected from the Scopus database were systematically analyzed using a two-tier method. In the first tier of analysis, the evolution and current state of research are identified using citation analysis. In the second tier, network analysis and content analysis of research clusters and thematic mapping are done to identify the prominent research themes and research gaps and suggest future research directions.FindingsThe study highlights the emergence of six research clusters: SHRM and competitive advantage, employer branding and employee engagement, crisis management and resilience, challenges, career shock and job demand resources and burnout. The thematic mapping categorizes the themes into four categories: motor, basic, emerging or declining, and niche research themes published on COVID-19 and HRM. To understand the socio-cultural dynamics and cross-cultural issues during human resource management, the findings emphasized the need for the increased contribution of researchers and practitioners, especially from the developing and emerging nation’s context. Increased co-authorship among influential authors and institutions will also help formulate strategies and policies to effectively deal with similar pandemics.Originality/valueUnlike the previous literature review, the present findings provide meaningful insights for formulating people management techniques, policies, and practices in response to COVID-19 or similar pandemics.

Isotopes and bioarchaeology in the Andes: Diet, life histories, and ritual

AbstractIn this article, we present an isotopic perspective of key research questions in Andean bioarchaeology, focusing on the ways in which stable and radiogenic isotope analyses have contributed to our understanding of the past. Andean archaeology offers a window into long‐term processes of economic, socioecological and political change since the mid‐Holocene, thus providing historical trajectories of socio‐ecological change relevant for global comparison. The spatial scale of this review includes the areas traditionally identified as the south‐central Andes and the southern Andes. These ecological scenarios are characterised by marked topographic, climatic and ecological variations that are fruitful for the application of isotopes to understand diet, mobility, migration and ritual in past human societies. Within the broader Andean context, here we focus on the growth of bioarchaeological applications of isotopic data. We discuss some major themes of economic production, mobility and exploitation of environmental diversity, maize agriculture, migrations in small‐ and large‐scale societies and ritual practices related to human sacrifices and body modifications. Building on this, we discuss theoretical and methodological trends and directions for future research combining bioarchaeology and isotopes in the Andes.

Conducting Forensic Multidisciplinary Examinations and Sets of Forensic Examinations Using Specific Expertise in Economics

The quality of forensic examination depends on a forensic expert’s qualification and his/her in-depth and responsible research on objects, the investigation of which arose during pre-trial investigation or trial. Currently, expert methodologies for conducting multidisciplinary forensic economic examinations and sets of forensic examinations require improvement, especial-ly in light of wartime conditions. Multidisciplinary examination reflects contemporary theoretical trends by integrating legal norms into practical application to address urgent tasks in pre-trial investigations and court proceedings. The most efficient approach is to use a set of methods and technical means that give rise to new branches of scientific knowledge, determine the regularities of their practical significance, and establish interdisciplinary links. At the same time, multidisciplinary examination demonstrates high efficiency and broad possibilities through the combined and synthesized application of knowledge from diverse scientific fields and technical tools in addressing tasks assigned to a forensic expert. Sequential conduct of various types of forensic examinations during the resolution of multidisciplinary tasks in some cases ensures the reliability of expert conclusions and optimizes the judicial process. Multidisciplinary examination conclusions have a varied impact on the decisions made by the parties to the dispute. Therefore, improving the methodology of conducting multidisciplinary forensic examinations or sets of forensic examinations during the resolution of complex issues, which often arise in conditions of martial law, is relevant. This allows for the determination of unified approaches to addressing problematic aspects of such research.

Foraging predicts the evolution of warning coloration and mimicry in snakes

Warning coloration and Batesian mimicry are classic examples of Darwinian evolution, but empirical evolutionary patterns are often paradoxical. We test whether foraging costs predict the evolution of striking coloration by integrating genetic and ecological data for aposematic and mimetic snakes (Elapidae and Dipsadidae). Our phylogenetic comparison on a total of 432 species demonstrated that dramatic changes in coloration were well predicted by foraging strategy. Multiple tests consistently indicated that warning coloration and conspicuous mimicry were more likely to evolve in species where foraging costs of conspicuous appearance were relaxed by poor vision of their prey, concealed habitat, or nocturnal activity. Reversion to crypsis was also well predicted by ecology for elapids but not for dipsadids. In contrast to a theoretical prediction and general trends, snakes' conspicuous coloration was correlated with secretive ecology, suggesting that a selection regime underlies evolutionary patterns. We also found evidence that mimicry of inconspicuous models (pitvipers) may have evolved in association with foraging demand for crypsis. These findings demonstrate that foraging is an important factor necessary to understand the evolution, persistence, and diversity of warning coloration and mimicry of snakes, highlighting the significance of additional selective factors in solving the warning coloration paradox.

Theoretical Construction and Development Trends of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems in the Industry 4.0 Environment

Theoretical Construction and Development Trends of Intelligent Manufacturing Systems in the Industry 4.0 Environment

A multi-variable service supply management portfolio model for Telecom industry

Supply operations require some kind of classification according to the features of items. Based on the literature review and expert interview, a multi-variable service supply management portfolio model was developed to classify the procurable service items in the Telecom industry in a more realistic way with better precision. First, a multi-level relational reflective model was built based on four dimensions using the fuzzy Delphi method and the model was validated by factor analysis. Then, 50 service items were placed in 16 clusters of the portfolio model. For each category of services in the model, the pertinent supplier relationship management practices were proposed using the literature review accompanied by a focus group. The presented model contributed to the development of previous theoretical trends in supply management portfolio models by introducing a new dimension, called “pace of innovation in technology”, to those extracted from the literature review, such as “strategic importance of the items”, “supply risk”, and “extent of buyer captivity”. Despite the classical models targeting tangible goods and products, our model was customized for the service industry context and can be considered a starting point towards service supply market segmentation procedures according to the attributes of each service item category.

Ecological barriers: An approach to ecological conservation and restoration in China.

The Chinese government has pursued comprehensive ecological conservation and restoration by establishing an ecological barrier system. However, the majority of international research tends to focus on the connectivity between habitats, overlooking the functions that ecological barriers play in ecological conservation and restoration. The existing literature lacks a systematic exploration of the theory and practice of ecological barriers. This study employed the literature analysis tool CiteSpace to present the theoretical and developmental trends in ecological barriers from various perspectives, including research fields, historical evolution, research hotspots, and major research nations. By analyzing the differences in the understanding of ecological barriers between China and other countries, examining the ecological barriers construction history in China, and exploring the types and functions of ecological barriers, this study summarizes the framework of China's ecological barriers construction system as "features-functions-problems." Constructing an ecological barrier system can help achieve ecological conservation and restoration goals in China.

Russian Literary Theories in Italy: Translations and Research (1991-2023)

This article provides an overview of the state of translation and research on Russian literary theories published in Italy from 1991 to 2023. Particular attention is given to the wide range of perspectives and activities put forward by national literary criticism, especially the role played by Italian journals specialising in Slavic studies such as “Studi Slavistici”, “Europa Orientalis”, “Russica Romana” “Ricerche Slavistiche”, “Slavica Tergestina”, “AvtobiografiJA”, “eSamizdat”, and publishers such as “Bompiani”, “Einaudi”, “Laterza”, “Marsilio”, “De Donato”. Notably, some journals, for instance “Strumenti critici”, “Enthymema”, “Letterature e Letteratura”, “LEA”, “Kamen’”, “Tincontre. Teoria Testo Traduzione” and “La parola del testo”, have shown a significant engagement with Russian literary theories, despite not being devoted to the field of Slavic studies. By taking into account the theoretical trends of the last three decades, I demonstrate that a great deal of consideration has been given to OPOJAZ, the Moscow Linguistic Circle, the so-called “Bakhtin Circle” and the gachn (State Academy of Art Studies), with a renewed interest in literary personalities such as Michail Petrovskij, Grigorij Vinokur, and Lev Pumpjanskij, but also in key figures linked to sociology of literature such as Boris Arvatov.