Search Results (134)

Optimizing resource allocation is crucial for enhancing Total Factor Productivity (TFP). This study investigates the impact of differentiated industrial land supply (DILS) on industrial Total Factor Productivity (ITFP), a topic essential for optimizing territorial spatial layouts and promoting high-quality industrial development. Using panel data from 282 Chinese cities (2007–2021) and a Spatial Durbin Model (SDM), we analyze the spatiotemporal effects of this factor. The results indicate a weakening trend in DILS over time, with a spatial pattern of lower intensity in the east and higher intensity in the west, while ITFP shows an upward trend, with higher levels in the east. Nationally, increased DILS impedes ITFP growth, a finding with robust implications for alternative approaches. This impact demonstrates significant spatiotemporal heterogeneity: at the macro-scale, eastern China shows an inverted U-shape, while the central and western regions exhibit negative impacts. At the meso-scale, the Yangtze River Economic Belt shows negative effects, while the Yellow River Basin displays an inverted U-shape. At the micro-scale, major city clusters show varied relationships (inverted U-shaped, positive, or negative). We conclude that DILS generally hinders ITFP, with effects intensifying and varying significantly across narrowing spatial scales, underscoring the need for region-specific land policies to support high-quality industrial development. This study enriches our theoretical understanding of how resource allocation affects ITFP and provides practical guidance for optimizing industrial land use. Full article

This paper presents the detailed comparisons of solute macro-segregation pictures predicted by different meso-macroscopic simulations, based on the single-domain enthalpy–porosity approach coupled with distinct models of flow resistance in the two-phase zone. In the first, the whole zone is treated as a Darcy’s porous medium (EP model); in the other two, the columnar and equiaxed grain structures are distinguished using either the coherency point (EP-CP model) approach or by tracking a virtual surface of columnar dendrite tips (EP-FT model). The simplified 2D model of a solidifying cast in a centrifuge is proposed, and calculations are performed for the Pb-48wt. % Sn cast at various hypergravity levels and rotation angles. It is shown, in the example of Sn-10wt. % Pb alloy, that the predicted macro-segregation strongly depends on the mesoscopic model used, and the EP-FT simulation (validated with the AFRODITE benchmark) provides the most realistic solute inhomogeneity pictures. The EP-FT model is further used to investigate the impact of the hyper-gravity level and the cooling direction on the compositional nonuniformity developing in centrifuge casting. The hyper-gravity level visibly impacts the macro-segregation extent. The region of almost uniform solute distribution in the slurry zone rises with the increased effective gravity, though the solute channeling is more severe for higher gravity and rotation angles. A-channeling and V-channeling were observed for angles between the gravity vector and cooling direction lower than 120° and higher than 120°, respectively. Full article

Density functional theory (DFT) and its extension, time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT), have become fundamental tools for modeling chiral excited states and supporting experimental chiroptical spectroscopies. In this connection, the interest in understanding the asymmetric emission through the circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) technique peaked in the current decade. In the present work, we are computationally faced with an emerging class of luminophores which combines the luminogenic source of the BODIPY unit with the intrinsic chirality of the helicene pendant to obtain a chiral radiative deactivation. In particular, a meso-substituted BODIPY-[6]helicene was deeply examined through a DFT multistep approach to attain an appreciable level of theory for the CPL simulation. Among the multitude of alternatives, TPSSTPSS exchange-correlation functional with 6-311G(d,p) basis set revealed to be the best computational protocol to emulate the CPL spectral profile with regard to peak intensity, band position, and chiral sign for both M and P form. Full article

Business Economics lacks coherent theoretical foundations despite its prominence in business education. This paper critiques conventional equilibrium-based curricula that begin with ceteris paribus assumptions, proposing instead a systems-based evolutionary framework integrating macro–meso–micro perspectives. Through conceptual analysis, we demonstrate how traditional approaches fail to capture dynamic business realities. Our evolutionary framework incorporates seven pillars: variation–selection–retention dynamics, multi-level integration, dynamic capabilities, institutional networks, complexity theory, organizational form evolution, and behavioral insights. The paper provides curriculum guidelines (12-week structure) that maintain economic literacy while teaching students to reason through feedback loops, uncertainty, and systemic change. This repositioning represents the need for a paradigm shift from static optimization toward understanding businesses as adaptive systems, better preparing students for navigating continuous change in complex environments. Full article

Mountainous traditional villages represent unique socio-ecological systems that have evolved through centuries of adaptation to complex topographies and multi-hazard environments. Understanding their terrain–resilience coupling mechanisms is essential for risk-sensitive planning and heritage preservation in mountainous regions. This study integrates multi-source remote sensing data and GIS spatial analysis to investigate 57 national-level traditional villages in the southern Qinba Mountains, China. Using kernel density estimation (KDE), nearest neighbor index (NNI), and Geodetector modeling, we identify the spatial distribution characteristics and topographic driving forces that shape settlement patterns across macro-meso-micro scales. Results reveal that 83% of the villages are clustered in low-mountain and hilly zones (550–1200 m elevation), preferring slopes below 15° and south-facing aspects. Elevation exerts the strongest influence (q = 0.46), followed by slope (q = 0.32) and aspect (q = 0.29), forming a multi-level adaptation framework of “macro-elevation differentiation, meso-slope constraint, and micro-aspect optimization.” Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA) further indicates that traditional villages achieve ecological balance and disaster avoidance through adaptive spatial strategies such as terrace-based flood prevention, convex-bank stabilization, and platform-based hazard avoidance. These strategies are not merely topographic preferences but natural adaptation mechanisms formed by long-term responses to multi-hazard environments—dynamic adaptation processes that reduce disaster exposure and optimize resource use efficiency through active adjustment of site selection and spatial transformation (the disaster density in the 100m core zone buffer is 0.077 events/km², significantly lower than 0.290 events/km² in peripheral areas). These findings demonstrate that remote sensing techniques can effectively reveal the terrain–resilience coupling of traditional villages, providing quantitative evidence for integrating spatial resilience into cultural landscape conservation, ecological security assessment, and rural revitalization planning. The proposed multi-scale analytical framework offers a transferable approach for evaluating settlement adaptability and resilience in other mountainous cultural heritage regions worldwide. Full article

Within the circular economy, repair is increasingly recognised as a crucial yet underexplored strategy that extends product lifespans and reduces waste. Service design offers approaches to support this transition by addressing technical, social, and systemic dimensions. This review aimed to synthesise how service design contributes to repair practices and identify research gaps. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we systematically searched Scopus and Web of Science, applied inclusion criteria focusing on service design and repair within the circular economy, and conducted multi-step screening and snowballing. From 132 initial records, 73 studies were included (journal articles, conference papers, book chapters). Thematic synthesis identified three areas: micro-level interactions between producers, products, and users (e.g., motivations, trust, communication); meso-level tools, frameworks, and platforms enhancing accessibility and efficiency; and macro-level societal transformation through regulations, standards, and communities. Results highlight service design’s potential to foster systemic change by integrating environmental, social, and economic aspects, while also revealing notable research gaps related to the limited engagement of repairers, policymakers, and cross-level collaboration. Compared to previous studies, this review contributes a novel integrated framework linking micro-, meso-, and macro-level dimensions of repair within the circular economy, offering both conceptual insights and actionable directions for practitioners and policymakers. The study is limited by language constraints and the lack of a formal bias evaluation. All reviewed materials are publicly accessible on OSF. This research was conducted without external financial support. Full article

Metal-coated mesoporous PSi (mesoPSi) opens up disruptive perspectives for biosensing, which is primarily enabled by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Although the unique performance of SERS-active substrates based on metal-coated mesoPSi has already been praised, influence of defects in silicon wafer on its morphology has not been revealed. Defects lead to formation of spiral regions in mesoPSi with varying porosity, which affects SERS activity of the overlying metallic nanostructures. It limits the reliability of SERS analysis. Here, we investigate repeatability of morphology and SERS activity of silver particles on mesoPSi as a function of defects in parent silicon, which are induced by irregular dopant levels. We propose an original corrosion approach that has not yet been applied to control the morphology of silicon nanostructures in general and mesoPSi in particular. By replacing silicon nanocrystallites with sacrificial copper nanoparticles, we were able to eliminate the surface irreproducibility of mesoPSi. The copper-corrosion-modified porous silicon surface was shown to be a suitable substrate for reliable SERS-active substrates. In more detail, SERS-active substrate based on mesoPSi without a defective surface layer allowed for a more than 40% increase in the SERS-active surface area with a signal deviation of only 10 % compared to that with a defective layer. Full article

Background: Systems thinking (ST) is an approach to problem-solving that views systems through a holistic perspective, focusing on the interconnections and relationships between various elements. In healthcare, the World Health Organization’s 2009 report marked a paradigm shift toward ST, prompting the development and use of ST tools to address complex challenges. Despite this, limited attention has been given to ST’s application in healthcare human resource management (HRM). This paper aims to provide a scoping review of ST application in healthcare HRM to explore its value in workforce management. Methods: Following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, a scoping review was conducted to map how ST has been applied in healthcare HRM. Peer-reviewed articles published between 1999 and December 2024 were identified through Scopus and PubMed, using search terms such as systems thinking, human resources, and workforce. Data were extracted using a structured tool, and findings were analyzed through the lens of the system level of application. Results: The review identified 19 studies from 15 countries, with the majority using qualitative or mixed methods approaches across diverse settings. Core applications were applied at the macro, meso, and micro system levels to address workforce challenges, map feedback loops, identify leverage points, and strengthen stakeholder collaboration. ST was commonly applied at regional and national levels and supported improved workforce planning, policy development, and service coordination. Most studies employed soft systems modeling. Conclusions: This review highlights ST’s potential to enhance HRM by recognizing interdependencies across workforce functions. Findings suggest that ST enables more integrated strategies, promotes collaboration, and supports systemic decision-making. The adoption of ST in healthcare HRM may address persistent workforce challenges, though implementation remains limited by reductionist perspectives and unfamiliarity with ST tools. Full article

This integrative review examines the persistent analytical divide in economics by advancing the macro–meso–micro framework as a comprehensive approach for understanding complex socioeconomic ecosystems and sustainability transitions. Drawing on empirical evidence from European energy systems, particularly Greece and the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, we demonstrate that conventional economic analysis has systematically overlooked the crucial meso-level where evolutionary processes are most visible and transformative. This conceptual “myopia” has led to fragmented policy interventions that work at cross-purposes across different analytical levels. By reconceptualizing economic systems as evolving rule populations operating simultaneously at three distinct but interconnected levels, this view offers diagnostic potential for effective adaptation to sustainability transitions. The framework’s greatest contribution lies in its theoretical thoroughness and, most importantly, in its practical capacity to generate more coherent interventions that harness evolutionary dynamics. Full article

Background: Digital transformation is reshaping public organizations worldwide, yet in low-resource contexts, its success is constrained by weak infrastructure and governance. In India, programs such as the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and the Aspirational Districts Programme rely on meso-level officers who act as key managerial intermediaries, but their organizational challenges remain understudied. Aim: This study examines sub-district health and nutrition officers’ experiences, organizational barriers, and adaptive strategies in implementing digital reforms. Methods: Eight in-depth interviews were conducted with Medical Officers in Charge (MOICs) and Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) across urban, semi-urban, rural, and flood-prone blocks of Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Data were transcribed, translated, and thematically analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s approach, informed by organizational and technology adoption theories. Results: Officers valued digital tools for transparency and real-time monitoring but faced systemic barriers, including hardware decay, poor connectivity, fragmented platforms, and limited fiscal autonomy. Despite these, they displayed managerial agency through informal infrastructures such as WhatsApp, peer mentoring, and parallel records. COVID-19 accelerated digital use while widening inequities. Conclusions: Meso-level officers are critical enablers of organizational resilience. Their experiences highlight how leadership, governance, and adaptive management shape digital transformation in resource-constrained settings. Full article

The political participation of marginalized young people has gained increasing attention in both research and policy. This study examines the role of funding programs as meso-level infrastructures that mediate political strategies and local practice, aiming to strengthen the political participation of marginalized young people. Drawing on desk research and two expert focus groups at national and European levels, it explores how such programs can be designed to effectively reach and support young people who have not yet participated, or have only rarely participated, in political processes. The analysis focuses on four key dimensions: (1) conceptual frameworks and contextual factors, (2) the positioning of programs within broader structures and cross-sectoral strategies, (3) the inherent logic of administrative structures, and (4) programs’ responsiveness to the needs of practitioners and young people. Results show that finding answers to the question of how programs need to be designed in order to better promote the political participation of marginalized young people, cannot be obtained by looking exclusively at the program level but require an analysis of the relationships to the macro- (political strategies, concepts, structural changes) and the micro-level (implementation practices in projects by professionals and young people). The findings highlight the critical mediating role of programs as both a bridge and a lever between policymakers and young people/professionals in shaping access, and identify several enabling factors: moving beyond deficit-oriented narratives, strengthening bottom-up feedback mechanisms, increasing flexibility and support in administrative procedures, and recognizing the importance of local infrastructures. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of the implementation dynamics at the meso-level and underlines the need for long-term, coherent, coordinated, and context-sensitive approaches in youth participation policy. Full article

The genus Pasiphaea Savigny, 1816, comprises a diverse assemblage of meso- to bathypelagic shrimps, currently including 69 valid species. Taxonomic investigations have long been hampered by numerous synonymies and by species known only from their original, overly brief descriptions. Here, we address these deficiencies by examining Pasiphaea specimens collected in the Western and Central Pacific during multiple research cruises using mid-water trawls. Integrating traditional morphological characters (carapace carination, pleonal relief, telson end morphology, and pereopodal dentition) with a novel morphometric framework, we standardized terminology and defined a suite of quantitative measurements across the carapace, pleon, telson, and chelae. In order to corroborate species boundaries, we sequenced three mitochondrial gene markers (COI, 16S rDNA, and 12S rDNA) and calculated genetic distances under the Kimura two-parameter model. This combined approach extended or confirmed the geographic ranges of five described taxa, facilitated the formal description of eight new species, and demonstrated the synonymy of P. gracilis Hayashi, 1999, and P. fragilis Hayashi, 1999. Phylogenetic reconstructions further highlighted cases of pseudocryptic speciation in neighboring bathyal habitats. Our results expose substantial lacunae in the Southwest Pacific Pasiphaea fauna and substantiate the necessity for a comprehensive, genus-level revision. This study thereby contributes to both refining species diagnoses and advancing our understanding of deep-sea crustacean biodiversity. Full article

Floodplain lakes play a significant role in maintaining biological diversity and providing a food base for aquatic organisms. In 2023–2024, for the first time, we studied phytoplankton of five floodplain lakes of the transboundary Irtysh River in Kazakhstan. A total of 149 species and forms of planktonic algae were recorded, with a low level of similarity between the lakes. The ratio of indicator species (predominance of eutraphents and meso-eutraphents), abundance (3301.6–168,961.1 thou. cells L⁻¹), biomass (2.41–83.67 mg L⁻¹) of phytoplankton communities, and composition of dominant phyla and species (Cyanobacteria: Microcystis pulverea, M. aeruginosa, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae; Chlorophyta: Volvox globator; Dinoflagellata: Ceratium hirundinella and others) testified to a high level of organic pollution of floodplain lakes. Chemical variables (nitrogen compound content, PI) supported this conclusion. Analysis of the RDA revealed that the biomass of Cyanobacteria was controlled by nitrate nitrogen, while phosphates controlled that of Chlorophyta. The applied integrated approach showed an improvement in the trophic status of lakes in a high-water year and can be useful in assessing the ecological state of aquatic ecosystems in other regions. Full article

With the tightening of environmental regulations, the need to identify tools that foster the development of sustainable systems is growing. The shift toward closed-loop, bio-like systems promotes the creation of nature-inspired systems. However, the transformation processes and toolkits vary across meso-level systems with differing economic activity. This research reveals the patterns of formation and develops governance models for the evolution of nature-inspired systems, considering the specifics of digital transformation and innovative activity in ensuring environmental security. Methodology includes the following: correlation and regression analysis, factor and cluster analysis, along with automated neural network simulations. The study resulted in the expansion of conceptual frameworks for “nature-inspired system” formation; revealed dependencies between the formation of a nature-inspired macrosystem and mesosystems, while identifying growth hotspots for nature-inspired systems in Russia; identified the priority determinants of nature-inspired mesosystem formation; proposed a composite index (DNIS—Development of a Nature-Inspired System) to assess the cumulative impact of determinants and evaluate ecological performance responses; and developed a typology of regional mesosystems based on economic/ecological performance and “green” technology adoption, enabling differentiated approaches to guiding nature-inspired system development. The findings presented in this study are recommended for applications in improving regional socio-economic development programs. Full article

In composites, fiber–matrix thermal mismatch induces stress heterogeneity that is beyond the resolution of macroscopic approaches. The asymptotic expansion homogenization method is used to create a multi-scale thermo-mechanical coupling model that predicts the elastic modulus, thermal expansion coefficients, and thermal conductivity of ceramic matrix composites at both the macro- and micro-scales. These predictions are verified to be accurate with a maximum relative error of 9.7% between the measured and predicted values. The multi-scale analysis method is then used to guide the vane’s thermal stress analysis, and a macro–meso–micro multi-scale model is created. The thermal stress distribution and stress magnitudes of the guide vane under a transient high-temperature load are investigated. The results indicate that the temperature and thermal stress distributions of the guide vane under the homogenization and lamination theory models are rather comparable, and the locations of the maximum thermal stress are predicted to be reasonably close to one another. The homogenization model allows for the rapid and accurate prediction of the guide vane’s thermal stress distribution. When compared to the macro-scale stress values, the meso-scale predicted stress levels exhibit excellent accuracy, with an inaccuracy of 11.7%. Micro-scale studies reveal significant stress concentrations at the fiber–matrix interface, which is essential for the macro-scale fatigue and fracture behavior of the guide vane. Full article