Structure Theory Research Articles

Testing structural balance theories in heterogeneous signed networks

The abundance of data about social relationships allows the human behavior to be analyzed as any other natural phenomenon. Here we focus on balance theory, stating that social actors tend to avoid establishing cycles with an odd number of negative links. This statement, however, can be supported only after a comparison with a benchmark. Since the existing ones disregard actors’ heterogeneity, we extend Exponential Random Graphs to signed networks with both global and local constraints and employ them to assess the significance of empirical unbalanced patterns. We find that the nature of balance crucially depends on the null model: while homogeneous benchmarks favor the weak balance theory, according to which only triangles with one negative link should be under-represented, heterogeneous benchmarks favor the strong balance theory, according to which also triangles with all negative links should be under-represented. Biological networks, instead, display strong frustration under any benchmark, confirming that structural balance inherently characterizes social networks.

Literary Psychological Analysis of Legends Si Boru Naitang

This research aims to analyze the intrinsic and psychological elements of characters through the id, ego and superego aspects of the characters in the Legend Si Boru Naitang. Legend Si Boru Naitang is a form of folklore owned by the Toba Batak community located in Tajur, Pangururan District, Samosir Regency. The theory used in analyzing this story is the structural theory put forward by Nurgiyantoro and literary psychology expressed by Sigmund Freud. The method in this research is a descriptive method with field research techniques. Based on the research results found in the legend Si Boru Naitang 4 intrinsic elements: theme, plot, setting, character, message. The results achieved through structural analysis found 4 intrinsic elements, namely: theme, plot, background/setting, character, message. Apart from that, the personality structure of id, ego, superego was also found in each character in the story. The results show that there is a personality structure for each character, namely Si Boru Naitang, Inar Naiborngin, Raja Naibaho Siahaan, Inang (mother), son of Raja Palti Sinaga, Raja Naibaho Hutaparik, Raja Palti Sinaga. Keywords: Legend Si Boru Naitang, Character Analysis, Literary Psychology

The evolution of the debt—equity doctrine in the light of financial instruments’ digitalization

The article outlines the basics for using the debt—equity dichotomy in the financial instruments typology and analyzes the contradictions and short-comings of the existing approach to classification. It is shown that the “trap” of the debt—equity dichotomy comes from the path dependence process, mainly formed by the inertia of the tax system. It is noted that the applying of the debt—equity dichotomy entails a formalist approach to classification, which does not bring closer to the clarity of the delimitation of contracts according to the criteria of risk and reward distribution, and restrictions on post-contractual opportunism. Arguments are given to explain why the foundations of the debt— equity doctrine may be weakened in relation to crypto assets. This is supported by the fact that the genesis of digital assets occurs in a specific technological context, which determines its own criteria and framework for the typology of instruments. Another set of arguments comes from the fact that the world of crypto assets appears to be coherent with the specific environment of venture capital investment. This environment, in turn, arouses the demand for overcoming the debt—equity dichotomy to implement the tasks of risky investors and structuring the relations of the parties involved in projects. This demand has now led to the emergence of a number of instruments that cannot be classified as either debt or equity, including those using the construct of tokens or contractual agreements used by crowdfunding platforms. Overall, the intellectual effort that previously satisfactorily explained companies’ choices of financing styles and modes is now insufficient to reconcile capital structure theories with the practice of digital asset financing.

Social Capital and Community Development

Purpose: This study sought to investigate the concept of social capital and its role in promoting community development and resilience, with a focus on practical interventions and policy implications. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to social capital and community development. In this study on social capital and community development, while all authors contribute to the overarching theme, one author stands out for discussing a slightly different topic. Specifically, the author who emphasizes the economic advantages of robust social capital within a community diverges somewhat from the others. While the study as a whole examines various aspects of community development, including economic prosperity, social cohesion, and resilience, this particular author delves deeper into the specific mechanisms through which social capital enhances economic opportunities, such as access to resources, markets, and employment. Therefore, this author's focus on the economic dimension of social capital provides a unique perspective within the broader context of community development discussed by the other authors. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Capital theory, Community Empowerment theory and Structural Functionalism theory may be used to anchor future studies on the concept of social capital and its role in promoting community development and resilience. The study made several recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field. It suggested further exploration of the mechanisms linking social capital to community development outcomes, integration of social capital considerations into policy frameworks, and implementation of community-based interventions. Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of capacity-building efforts, collaborative partnerships among stakeholders, and robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. By investing in these recommendations, stakeholders aimed to foster resilient, inclusive, and thriving communities, leveraging social capital as a catalyst for positive social change.

Formation of structural holes in R&D context: the effect of inventors’ knowledge abilities and patenting output

Purpose This study aims to investigate the influence of inventors’ abilities to acquire external knowledge, provide broad and professional knowledge and patenting output (i.e. different types of inventors) on the formation of structural holes. Design/methodology/approach The authors collected 59,798 patents applied for and granted in the USA by 33 of the largest firms worldwide in the pharmaceutical industry between 1975 and 2014. A random-effects tobit model was used to test the hypotheses. Findings The inventors’ ability to acquire external knowledge contributes to the formation of structural holes. While inventors’ ability to provide broad knowledge positively affects the formation of structural holes, their ability to provide professional knowledge works otherwise. In addition, key inventors and industrious inventors are more likely to form structural holes than talents. Originality/value The results identify individual factors that affect the formation of structural holes and improve the understanding of structural hole theory. This study is unique in that most scholars have studied the consequences of structural hole formation rather than their antecedents. Studies on the origin of structural holes neglect the effect of inventors’ knowledge abilities and patenting output. By addressing this gap, this study contributes to a more comprehensive theoretical understanding of structural holes. The results can guide managers in managing structural holes in accordance with inventors’ knowledge abilities and patenting outputs, which optimize the allocation of network resources.

Project Management Practices and Implementation of Somali Humanitarian Fund Projects by Local Non-Governmental Organizations in Mogadishu, Somalia

The effective management and control of a project are fundamental to its success. In the context of intricate projects, such as those associated with the Somali Humanitarian Fund (SHF), strict adherence to a defined scope, schedule, and budget is crucial to attaining the desired outcomes. Humanitarian and Development (SHF) projects carried out by local NGOs in Mogadishu, Somalia. The specific goals of the study included scrutinizing the role of communication in SHF project performance, evaluating the impact of planning on project success, assessing the effects of financing on project performance, and determining the importance of monitoring and evaluation in the implementation of SHF projects. The study was grounded in the Theory of Change, Management by Objective Theory, Adaptive Structuration Theory, and the Theory of Constraints. Employing a descriptive survey design, the research involved a population of 50 SHF projects. Data collection utilized a semi-structured questionnaire, and the analysis was conducted using SPSS, with findings presented through mean scores, standard deviation, and percentages. The findings highlight the critical role of effective communication, comprehensive planning, adequate financing, and robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) mechanisms in project success. Communication challenges were identified as hindrances to timely project completion, emphasizing the need for improved communication channels and strategies. Planning was deemed essential, but the recognition of inadequate planning as a challenge suggests a need for capacity building and best practice adoption. Financial support was seen as crucial, but there's room for improved assessment by financiers to ensure transparency. M&E processes were acknowledged as integral, yet areas like demonstrating corrective actions and aligning deliverables with objectives need attention for enhanced effectiveness and accountability. Recommendations include enhancing communication channels, bolstering planning capacities, improving financial management practices, and institutionalizing M&E processes. These steps aim to mitigate challenges, optimize resource utilization, and maximize the impact of SHF projects on vulnerable populations in Mogadishu.

Quantum Mechanical Versus Polarizable Embedding Schemes: A Study of the Xray Absorption Spectra of Aqueous Ammonia and Ammonium.

The X-ray absorption spectra of aqueous ammonia and ammonium are computed using a combination of coupled cluster singles and doubles (CCSD) with different quantum mechanical and molecular mechanical embedding schemes. Specifically, we compare frozen Hartree-Fock (HF) density embedding, polarizable embedding (PE), and polarizable density embedding (PDE). Integrating CCSD with frozen HF density embedding is possible within the CC-in-HF framework, which circumvents the conventional system-size limitations of standard coupled cluster methods. We reveal similarities between PDE and frozen HF density descriptions, while PE spectra differ significantly. By including approximate triple excitations, we also investigate the effect of improving the electronic structure theory. The spectra computed using this approach show an improved intensity ratio compared to CCSD-in-HF. Charge transfer analysis of the excitations shows the local character of the pre-edge and main-edge, while the post-edge is formed by excitations delocalized over the first solvation shell and beyond.

A backlash against the high‐speed modernity of gastronomy tourism: An analysis of the evolution of Macanese cuisine

In structuration theory, Giddens emphasises the importance of social practices in shaping and reproducing social structures, believing that the constitution of agents and structures represents a duality and advocating that structure is both a medium and outcome of the reproduction of practices. The traditional culture and customs embodied in Macanese cuisine can be considered as a structured process. Macanese cuisine reflects the unique food culture and customs of Macao society, presenting an irreplaceable way of life and cultural value. Macanese cuisine has developed based on the traditional customs and practices of the Macanese. It is recognised as an important intangible cultural heritage, receiving protection and promotion from the government. However, high‐speed modernity challenges the guarantee for continuity of Macanese traditional customs. Debates continue regarding how to promote the sustainability of Macanese cuisine. This study adopts Giddens' structuration theory to understand the evolutionary process of Macanese cuisine. It reveals the significance of individual agents' initiatives in promoting the rebirth of Macanese cuisine, and preserving the distinctiveness and self‐assertion of the Macanese community. Furthermore, the fusion culture that underlies Macanese cuisine can moderate the high‐speed modernity of gastronomy tourism and promote this cuisine's sustainability.

Are cities genuinely healthy? Diagnosis of urban development from the perspective of adaptive capacity

As urban diseases continue to emerge with the acceleration of urbanization, the transformation of urban governance concepts and systems must be urgently promoted. In dealing with the complex systemic problem of city governance, the concept of adaptation in complex adaptative system (CAS) theory has shown obvious advantages. This approach provides a new perspective for solving this problem in the face of the unprecedented complexity of current disasters. However, research on urban adaptation is currently hindered by imprecise terminology, significant bias, and insufficient empirical evidence. This study reinterprets the concept of urban adaptation in conjunction with CAS theory. The formula for the functional expression of urban adaptation is derived using dissipative structure theory. Indicators are then selected to describe the system of urban adaptive capacity. An adaptive decision support framework is established that covers 29 quantitative and 8 qualitative indicators. The adaptive performance of 12 sample cities is analyzed. Finally, this study provides corresponding planning paths for optimizing urban adaptation based on the evaluation results. The research findings can assist city managers in comprehending the actual situation of cities and provide a basis for formulating targeted governance programs.

Impact of Technological Advancements on Work and Employment Patterns

Purpose: This study sought to examine the impact of technological advancements on work and employment patterns. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the role of religion in shaping social attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights. The study provided comprehensive insights into the transformative effects of technology on the labor market. Through an analysis of existing literature and empirical studies, the research highlighted the emergence of job polarization, non-standard forms of employment, and the growing importance of education and skills development in the digital economy. The findings emphasized the need for proactive policy responses to address the challenges posed by technological change while harnessing its benefits for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Overall, the study contributed valuable knowledge to the understanding of how technological advancements shape work and employment patterns, guiding future efforts to navigate the complexities of the digital age. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Structural Transformation theory, Skill- Biased Technological Change theory and Institutional theory may be used to anchor future studies on technological advancements on work and employment patterns. The study provided recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy. It called for further research to explore the mechanisms underlying the relationship between technology and employment. Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of investing in education and skills development to prepare the workforce for the challenges of the digital economy. From a policy perspective, proactive measures were recommended to promote inclusive and sustainable employment growth, including strategies to support workers through transitions and ensure equitable distribution of benefits. Collaboration between stakeholders and ongoing monitoring and evaluation of policy interventions were also highlighted as crucial for addressing the socio-economic implications of technological change.

Phase Transition and Luminescent Property Change Induced by Different Organic Cations in One-Dimensional Double Perovskites.

Double perovskites (DPs) have attracted attention in the field of luminescence due to their inherent broadband emission of self-trapping excitons. In this work, we choose [(CH3)3NCH2CHCH2]+ and [CH3CHOHCH2NH2]+ as organic cations to synthesize two new organic-inorganic hybrid DPs, [(CH3)3NCH2CHCH2]2KInCl6 (1) and [CH3CHOHCH2NH2]2KInCl6 (2). The [KCl6]3- and [InCl6]3- octahedra are interchangeably connected by sharing two opposite faces, forming a one-dimensional coordination chain. Each K atom coordinates with six chlorine atoms in 1, while it coordinates with two oxygen atoms in addition to the six chlorine atoms in 2. The coordination between ions K and O in compound 2 may have significantly reduced its luminescence. As a result, compound 1 shows bright-yellow light with a quantum yield of more than 90%, while 2 shows weak blue light with a quantum yield of only 0.98%. In addition, different from no phase transition found in 2, 1 undergoes a reversible phase transition at 324/307 K in the heating-cooling cycle. Through structural and spectral analysis and density functional theory calculation, we conclude that the larger degree of [InCl6]3- octahedral distortion and the larger anion distance (In···In) also cause the PLQY of compound 1 to be higher than that of compound 2.

The BOSS bispectrum analysis at one loop from the Effective Field Theory of Large-Scale Structure

We analyze the BOSS power spectrum monopole and quadrupole, and the bispectrum monopole and quadrupole data, using the predictions from the Effective Field Theory of Large-Scale Structure (EFTofLSS). Specifically, we use the one loop prediction for the power spectrum and the bispectrum monopole, and the tree level for the bispectrum quadrupole. After validating our pipeline against numerical simulations as well as checking for several internal consistencies, we apply it to the observational data. We find that analyzing the bispectrum monopole to higher wavenumbers thanks to the one-loop prediction, as well as the addition of the tree-level quadrupole, significantly reduces the error bars with respect to our original analysis of the power spectrum at one loop and bispectrum monopole at tree level. After fixing the spectral tilt to Planck preferred value and using a Big Bang Nucleosynthesis prior, we measure σ 8 = 0.794 ± 0.037, h = 0.692 ± 0.011, and Ω m = 0.311 ± 0.010 to about 4.7%, 1.6%, and 3.2%, at 68% CL, respectively.This represents an error bar reduction with respect to the power spectrum-only analysis of about 30%, 18%, and 13% respectively. Remarkably, the results are compatible with the ones obtained with a power-spectrum-only analysis, showing the power of the EFTofLSS in simultaneously predicting several observables. We find no tension with Planck.

Variable angle tow-steered curvilinear fibres-based rotating arbitrarily layered composite beams- a coupled vibration of chordwise-flapwise-torsional motions by higher-order beam theory

In the present work, variable angle tow-steered curvilinear fibres-based straight composite rotating beam is studied for its coupled vibrational behaviours from different beam planes by a higher-order beam formulation satisfying plane stress situation and combining with finite element methodology. The structural theory is extended to include all the vibrational motions including chord- and flap-wise motions, axial and torsional vibrations of beam. The centrifugal force stiffening and gyroscopic effects stemming from rotational motions are taken into the formulation. The generic differential equations of equilibrium for the proposed structural theory are evolved adopting virtual dynamic work, Hamilton’s principle and a suitable C1 continuity based elemental equations are gotten. The newly constructed finite element formulation is tested for solved problems that are known in the literature. Based on in-depth analysis, vibration features of curvilinear fibre-based rotating generally layered composite beam including coupled dynamic motions in terms of vibrational modes and their frequencies pertaining to chord- and flap-wise, axial, torsional motions are detailed presuming variable angles along the curvilinear fibre path at the centre and layer edge, short and long beams, hub-radius, beam cross-section, and high rotational speed effects.

Presheath-like structures and effusive particle losses for biased probes at and near I–V electron saturation

A theory for presheath-like structures near probes biased at and above the plasma potential is developed for collisionless plasmas with an electron-neutral mean free path on the order of the chamber scale. The theory predicts presheath-like perturbations to the plasma that result from the free streaming of electrons and an effusion loss process from the chamber at the electrode. For these situations, a loss-cone-like velocity distribution function for electrons is predicted where the loss angle of the depletion region corresponds to the angular size of the electrode at a specified distance. The angle of the loss cone becomes 180° at the sheath edge. In comparison with a previous collisional electron presheath model that required electrons satisfy a Bohm criterion at the sheath edge [Scheiner et al., Phys. Plasmas 22, 123520 (2015)], the present work suggests that no such condition is needed for collisionless low pressure plasmas in the ≲10 mTorr range. The theory predicts the generation of a density depletion of roughly 0.5ne and an electron velocity moment of tens of percent of the electron thermal speed by the sheath edge in a presheath with a potential drop of less than Ti/e. The range of this presheath perturbation is determined by the electrode geometry instead of the collisional mean free path. These predictions are tested against previously published particle in cell simulations and are found to be in good agreement.

Succinct Ordering and Aggregation Constraints in Algebraic Array Theories

We discuss two extensions to a recently introduced theory of arrays, which are based on considerations coming from the model theory of power structures. First, we discuss how the ordering relation on the index set can be expressed succinctly by referring to arbitrary Venn regions. Second, we show how to add general aggregators to the calculus. The result is a logic that subsumes four previous fragments discussed in the literature and is distinct from array fold logic, in that it can express summations, while its satisfiability problem remains in non-deterministic polynomial time.

Large-scale and facile fabrication of phenyl-containing silicone foam materials with lightweight, wide-temperature flexibility and tunable pore structure for exceptional thermal insulation

Silicone foam materials with unique inorganic/organic molecular networks and porous structures are widely used in many emerging fields from aerospace to new energy fields. However, current silicone foam materials still show some limitations, such as the relatively high-density values of >200 mg cm−3, complex fabricating process and difficulty in tailoring pore structure. Herein, we report a large-scale and facile fabricating strategy to prepare phenyl-containing silicone foam materials (PhSiRF) with ultra-lightweight feature, tunable pore structure, and excellent wide-temperature mechanical flexibility. Interestingly, the presence of phenyl groups onto the Si–O–Si backbone tailors the chemical foaming rate probably due to the steric hindrance effect, thus producing tunable pore size distributions in the range of 180–500 μm. Typically, the PhSiRF with 50 % phenyl groups not only shows a very low density of ∼100 mg cm−3, superior to previous silicone foams and composites, but also exhibits wide-temperature flexibility (stable compressive strain of 80 % from −90 to 210 °C) and excellent thermal insulation performance, which outperforms those of conventional polymer foams including polyurethane, polyethylene and melamine foams. Based on the structure observation and theory analysis, the influence of different pore morphological structures on the thermal insulation performance is discussed and demonstrated. Clearly, this work provides a new yet simple method for developing high-performance silicone rubber foam materials for promising thermal insulation applications.

Time‐resolved photoelectron spectroscopy via trajectory surface hopping

AbstractTime‐resolved photoelectron spectroscopy is a powerful pump‐probe technique which can probe nonadiabatic dynamics in molecules. Interpretation of the experimental signals however requires input from theoretical simulations. Advances in electronic structure theory, nonadiabatic dynamics, and theory to calculate the ionization yields, have enabled accurate simulation of time‐resolved photoelectron spectra leading to successful applications of the technique. We review the basic theory and steps involved in calculating time‐resolved photoelectron spectra, and highlight successful applications.This article is categorized under: Electronic Structure Theory > Ab Initio Electronic Structure Methods Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Spectroscopy

High-order accurate transient and free-vibration analysis of plates and shells

The limited availability of analytical solutions and the high cost associated with experimental testing motivate the use of computational tools to assess the dynamic behavior of load-bearing components, especially when a wide design space must be explored, as is often the case with composite structures. In this context, a novel high-order accurate discontinuous Galerkin formulation for transient and free-vibration analysis of multilayered plates and shells is presented and numerical validated. The starting point of the formulation is a generalized structural theory for multilayered shells with arbitrary curvature based on the expansion of the displacement covariant components throughout the shell thickness. The variational statement of three-dimensional elastodynamics allows deriving the strong form of the governing differential equations, which form the basis to obtain the corresponding discontinuous Galerkin weak statements. As the order of the through-the-thickness expansion and the order of the discontinuous Galerkin basis functions are free parameters, the proposed approach allows tuning the order of accuracy of the computed solution throughout both the shell thickness and the shell modeling domain. Numerical results are reported and discussed for several validation test cases in terms of h- and p-convergence analyses, demonstrating the high-order accuracy, robustness, and computational savings of the formulation.

Gender and race measurement invariance of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire in a U.S. base sample

IntroductionThe Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) is one the most widely used behavior screening tools for public schools due to its strong psychometric properties, low cost, and brief (25-question) format. However, this screening tool has several limitations including being primarily developed for the purposes of identifying clinical diagnostic conditions and primarily in a European population. To date, there has been minimal comparative research on measurement invariance in relationship to important U.S. socio-demographic metrics such as race and gender.MethodThis study utilized both structural equation modeling (i.e., confirmatory factor analysis) and item response theory (IRT) methods to investigate the measurement invariance of the SDQ across gender (male, female) and race (Black, White). CFA analyses were first conducted for each of the SDQ subscales to identify potential misfit in loadings, thresholds, and residuals. IRT-graded response models were then conducted to identify and quantify the between-group differences at the item and factor levels in terms of Cohen's d styled metrics (d > 0.2 = small, d > 0.5 = medium, d > 8 = large).ResultsThere were 2,821 high school participants (52% Male, 48% Female; 88% Black, 12% White) included in these analyses. CFA analyses suggested that the item-factor relationship for most subscales were invariant, but the Conduct Problems and Hyperactivity subscales were non-invariant for strict measurement invariance. IRT analyses identified several invariant items ranging from small to large. Despite moderate to large effects for item scores on several scales, the test-level effects on scale scores were negligible.DiscussionThese analyses suggest that the SDQ subscale scores display reasonable comparable item-factor relationships across groups. Several subscale item scores displayed substantive item-level misfit, but the test level effects were minimal. Implications for the field are discussed.

Poly(β-aminoester) Physicochemical Properties Govern the Delivery of siRNA from Electrostatically Assembled Coatings.

Localized short interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy has the potential to drive high-specificity molecular-level treatment of a variety of disease states. Unfortunately, effective siRNA therapy suffers from several barriers to its intracellular delivery. Thus, drug delivery systems that package and control the release of therapeutic siRNAs are necessary to overcome these obstacles to clinical translation. Layer-by-layer (LbL) electrostatic assembly of thin film coatings containing siRNA and protonatable, hydrolyzable poly(β-aminoester) (PBAE) polymers is one such drug delivery strategy. However, the impact of PBAE physicochemical properties on the transfection efficacy of siRNA released from LbL thin film coatings has not been systematically characterized. In this study, we investigate the siRNA transfection efficacy of four structurally similar PBAEs in vitro. We demonstrate that small changes in structure yield large changes in physicochemical properties, such as hydrophobicity, pKa, and amine chemical structure, driving differences in the interactions between PBAEs and siRNA in polyplexes and in LbL thin film coatings for wound dressings. In our polymer set, Poly3 forms the most stable interactions with siRNA (Keff,w/w = 0.298) to slow release kinetics and enhance transfection of reporter cells in both colloidal and thin film coating approaches. This is due to its unique physiochemical properties: high hydrophobicity (clog P = 7.86), effective pKa closest to endosomal pH (pKa = 6.21), and high cooperativity in buffering (nhill = 7.2). These properties bestow Poly3 with enhanced endosomal buffering and escape properties. Taken together, this work elucidates the connections between small changes in polymer structure, emergent properties, and polyelectrolyte theory to better understand PBAE transfection efficacy.