Search Results (1,166)

Given the growing global emphasis on inclusive education, it is critical to understand how diversity practices in schools influence middle school teachers’ job satisfaction and long-term retention. However, previous research has paid limited attention to cross-cultural differences and often overlooks how diversity-related demands interact with workplace resources. Grounded in the Job Demands–Resources (JD–R) framework, this comparative study conceptualizes perceived diversity practices as job demands that may place additional emotional and cognitive burdens on teachers, while teacher–student relationships are viewed as key social resources that can buffer these effects. Using data from the 2018 OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS), we analyzed responses from over 6500 middle school teachers in the United States and China, employing regression analysis, Shapley value decomposition, and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine direct and mediated pathways. The results reveal marked cultural variation: In the U.S., diversity practices as job demands are more likely to be associated with increased job satisfaction through direct institutional support—particularly for female and older teachers. In contrast, in China, the positive impact of diversity-related demands on job satisfaction is primarily achieved through strong teacher–student relationships, which serve as vital compensatory resources—especially for middle-aged educators. These findings underscore the importance of culturally responsive policy design; while individualistic educational systems may benefit from direct structural supports, collectivist systems may require relational strategies to foster sustainable teacher satisfaction and retention, ultimately advancing educational quality and equity. Full article

This paper analyzes the performance of the TMD-Inerter for tall building damping. The analysis is performed by simulation to ensure ideal working behaviour of the inerter, i.e., the inerter produces a force in proportion to the relative acceleration of its terminals without any friction of real inerter devices such as fly wheels. For the study, the most realistic TMD-Inerter configuration is considered where the inerter is grounded to the TMD mass and the structural mass next to the TMD mass, i.e., the TMD-Inerter is installed in the top floor room of the structure. Approximate closed-form solutions for the tuning of the TMD-Inerter parameters are derived based on the characteristics of the inerter force. The resulting frequency response functions for different inertance ratios are compared to those of the classical TMD with same mass ratio. The results clearly demonstrate that the TMD-Inerter worsens the tall building damping compared to the classical TMD for the realistic situation that the inerter is grounded to the structural mass next to the TMD. There are two physical reasons why the inerter worsens the efficiency of the TMD. First, the inerter force is per definition in proportion to the relative acceleration of its two terminals, i.e., it is not in proportion to the damper mass (absolute) acceleration whereby it does not increase the damper mass. Second, for harmonic excitation the inerter force characteristics show negative stiffness behaviour which explains why the TMD stiffness must be designed by taking into consideration both the TMD physical mass and the inertance to ensure the correct tuning of the TMD-Inerter natural frequency. Full article

In response to the need for sustainable soil stabilization alternatives, this study explores the use of waste materials and biopolymers to improve the mechanical behavior of clay from Cartagena, Colombia. Crushed limestone waste (CLW), ground glass powder (GG), recycled gypsum (GY), xanthan gum (XG), and the combination of XG with polypropylene fibers (XG–PPF) were used as stabilizing agents. Samples were compacted at different dry densities and cured for 28 days. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) tests were conducted to assess the strength and stiffness of the treated mixtures. Results were normalized using the porosity/binder index ($\mathrm{\eta }/B_{iv}$), leading to predictive equations with high determination coefficients (R² = 0.94 for UCS and R² = 0.96 for stiffness). However, XG-treated mixtures exhibited distinct behavior that prevented their inclusion in a unified predictive model, as the fitted exponent x in the porosity/binder index ($\mathrm{\eta }/B_{iv}^x$) differed markedly from the others. While an exponent of 0.28 was suitable for blends with mineral binders, the optimal x values for XG and XG–PPF mixtures were significantly lower at 0.02 and 0.03, respectively, reflecting their unique gel-like and fiber-reinforced characteristics. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) identified cement content and compaction density as the most influential factors, while some interactions involving the residues were not statistically significant, despite aligning with experimental trends. The findings support the technical viability of using sustainable additives to enhance soil properties with reduced environmental impact. Full article

Pipeline leakage can induce ground surface settlements and structural responses in existing tunnels. A thorough understanding of pipeline–tunnel interactions is crucial for optimizing urban underground design and establishing construction guidelines. As urban underground spaces undergo rapid, large-scale development, their layouts have grown increasingly complex. Previous studies have mainly focused on the leakage propagation range and the resulting strata instability during tunnel excavation, while paying limited attention to the effects of pipeline leakage on existing tunnels. This study systematically investigated the mechanical response of existing tunnel structures to pipeline leakage under different layout configuration conditions using numerical modeling. A two-dimensional numerical model was developed to simulate the pipeline leakage process and its impact on adjacent tunnels. The research established a correlation between surrounding rock strength parameters and the saturation degree while examining the evolution patterns of leakage effects in various tunnel–pipeline arrangements. The analysis specifically focused on the mechanical influence of horizontal pipeline–tunnel distance, quantitatively determining the relationships among pipeline–tunnel spacing, leakage duration, and structural internal force. The horizontal pipeline–tunnel distance did not influence the development of the leakage zone above the tunnel vault but significantly altered the seepage path length and interface contact area. The complete encapsulation of the tunnel periphery by the leakage zone required progressively longer durations with increasing horizontal offsets: 16 days (0 m), 20 days (3 m), and 33 days (6 m). Corresponding circumferential contact ratios at 10 days were measured at 68.9%, 56.4%, and 30.6%, respectively. Furthermore, prolonged seepage duration led to increased ground subsidence with expanded affected areas, while the maximum settlement decreased proportionally with greater horizontal separation from the tunnel. These findings provide valuable insights for planning, designing, and maintaining “old tunnel-new pipeline” systems in urban underground development. Full article

The aim of this research is to determine the effect of nanocoating retrofitting on the dynamic responses of industrial steel chimneys. A 20 m high industrial steel chimney was selected for nanocoating retrofitting. First, a three-dimensional finite element model of the chimney was created, and modal analysis was performed in SAP2000 software, and frequency values and mode shapes were obtained. Later, linear analyses of the chimney were made using the 1995 Kobe earthquake ground motion recording. Then, the outer surface of the chimney was retrofitted with a 1 mm MgO nanocoating, and dynamic analyses were made. Finally, the chimney’s dynamic responses before and after the MgO retrofit, such as minimum–maximum von Mises stresses and displacements, were compared. At the end of the study, it was observed that the displacements along the chimney height, especially maximum displacements, decreased from 150 mm to 140 mm, and the minimum von Mises stress at the bottom of the chimney decreased from 37.20 kPa to 30.19 kPa, and the maximum von Mises stress from 1519.27 kPa to 1332.33 kPa stresses in the analyses results. The decrease in frequency values revealed that MgO nanocoating had a positive effect on the stiffness of the chimney. It can be understood from this study that nanocoatings will be very useful in retrofitting industrial steel chimneys and have an effect on dynamic parameters. Full article

This study investigates how digital transformation, digital culture, innovation capabilities, and organizational resilience influence organizational performance in the post-pandemic era. Grounded in Resilience Theory, the Dynamic Capabilities Framework, and Organizational Learning, this research analyzes how digital capabilities—such as innovation, digitalization, telework, and investment strategies—influence organizational performance. Data were collected through a structured online survey with 320 valid responses from decision-makers across various sectors. Using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression analysis, the results reveal that innovation, organizational resilience, and investment strategies are significant predictors of performance, together explaining over 52% of its variance. Interestingly, while digitalization correlates strongly with innovation and strategic adaptation, its direct effect on performance was not statistically significant in the regression model. These findings underscore the importance of an integrated approach to digital transformation and resilience-building strategies for navigating crises and fostering long-term performance. The study contributes to the literature on digitalization, crisis response, and strategic management, offering practical insights for managers and policymakers committed to strengthening organizational adaptability in the post-pandemic era. Full article

Background and Objectives: Cervical cancer remains a critical public health challenge in Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA), where systemic barriers have hindered prevention efforts. This descriptive regional study evaluates progress toward achieving Target 1 of the WHO Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination—vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15—in 17 countries and territories. The research is situated within the context of the Regional Alliance for Cervical Cancer Prevention in EECA, a multi-stakeholder platform launched by UNFPA in 2021 to accelerate regional progress toward WHO targets. The Alliance supports countries through technical collaboration, shared learning, and political engagement. Therefore, as a secondary endpoint, the study explores possible correlations between national achievements and the post-2021 scale-up efforts supported by the Alliance. Methods: A standardized questionnaire, consolidated by United Nation Population Fund (UNFPA) technical experts, was disseminated in November 2024 to 17 national focal points, yielding 19 responses due to disaggregated submissions from Bosnia and Herzegovina. The survey collected data on HPV vaccination policies, delivery models, vaccine type, target populations, and coverage. Results: By late 2024, six countries had implemented HPV vaccination before 2021, while six more launched programs after the Regional Alliance’s formation in 2021. Coverage varied widely, from 0.2% in Brčko District to 99.3% in Uzbekistan. Most countries targeted girls aged 9–14, with increasing male inclusion and catch-up cohorts. Gardasil 4 was the most used vaccine, though Gardasil 9 is gaining ground. School-based and hybrid delivery strategies were associated with significantly higher coverage (p = 0.0121). Inferential analysis also showed significant variation by vaccine type (p = 0.0067) and a positive correlation with program maturity (ρ = 0.52, p = 0.067). However, findings should be interpreted considering limitations including reliance on self-reported country data and absence of independent validation. Conclusions: The results offer actionable insights into delivery models, gender inclusion, and regional disparities—supporting efforts to close the gap toward 2030 elimination targets in EECA Countries. Full article

Drawing on a comparative qualitative analysis of case studies in reforestation, urban greening, and green mobility—from both the Global North and the Global South—this paper aims to identify recurring critical patterns associated with eco-blind initiatives, in order to uncover the most significant contradictions and risks underlying contemporary green innovation strategies. Eco-blindness occurs when interventions, although genuinely aimed at promoting sustainability, generate negative consequences by prioritizing environmental goals while overlooking the socio-cultural and territorial contexts within which they are embedded. Among the most significant patterns identified are the top-down imposition of sustainability frameworks, the exclusion of local actors from decision-making processes, the commodification of environmental goods, and the symbolic displacement of communities. In response to these challenges, the analysis emphasizes the transformative potential of place-based and participatory approaches, particularly when sustainability initiatives are co-designed with local communities and tailored to the specificities of territories. The paper concludes by reflecting on the potential contributions of social research in fostering more holistic, equitable, and territorially grounded models of environmental governance. Full article

Torsional vibration dampers effectively mitigate torsional oscillations and additional stresses in diesel engine crankshaft systems, ensuring operational safety and reliability. Traditional damper selection principles, grounded in dual-pendulum dynamic models, focus on minimizing maximum torsional angles but fail to accurately characterize vibration behaviors in multi-cylinder engines. This study addresses this limitation by investigating dynamic modeling and numerical methods for an eight-cylinder diesel crankshaft system. A torsional vibration model was developed using Cholesky decomposition and the Jacobi sweep method for free vibration analysis, followed by dynamic response calculations through model decoupling and modal superposition. Parameter optimization of the damper was achieved via the NSGA-II multi-objective algorithm combined with a Bayesian-hyperparameter-optimized BP neural network. The results show that high-inertia-ratio dampers effectively suppress vibration and stress, while low-inertia-ratio configurations require approximately 20% elevated tuning ratios beyond theoretical parameters to achieve an additional 5% stress reduction, albeit with amplified torsional oscillations. Additionally, the study critically evaluates the numerical reliability of conventional dual-pendulum-based tuning ratio selection methods. This integrated approach enhances the precision of damper parameter matching for multi-cylinder engine applications. Full article

The introduction of a novel replaceable plastic hinge technology aims to enhance the performance of precast reinforced concrete (PRC) frames, particularly in seismically vulnerable areas where substandard structural systems are prevalent. This artificially controllable plastic hinge (ACPH) mechanism effectively localizes inelastic deformations to a detachable steel subassembly, thereby maintaining the integrity of the primary structural components. A numerical analysis was carried out on four distinct PRC frame configurations that utilized concrete and steel of inferior quality relative to contemporary standards. The frames underwent testing under a segment of the Mw 7.7 Kahramanmaraş ground motion, revealing that connections utilizing the ACPH not only reduce peak base shear but also mitigate cracking at beam–column interfaces, directing plastic strains towards replaceable fuse elements. The implementation of the ACPH also facilitates extended structural periods and localized plastic hinging, which serves to limit damage to essential members while expediting post-earthquake repairs. Comparative validation through prior subassembly tests confirms that this hinge exhibits a strong hysteretic response and ductile performance, surpassing traditional wet-joint connections in the context of substandard PRC frames. Overall, these results underscore the potential of standardized hinge modules in enhancing seismic resilience and supporting swift, economical rehabilitation of critical infrastructure. Thus, this proposed technology effectively tackles persistent issues related to low-strength materials in precast structures, presenting a practical approach to improving earthquake resilience and minimizing repair time and costs. Full article

Climate change poses one of the most urgent challenges for cities today, creating unprecedented risks for individuals, communities, and various types of infrastructure—social, spatial, and physical. In response, many cities have begun developing and implementing adaptation policies aimed at enhancing their resilience and sustainability. This paper raises an important question about the fairness of these emerging policies and plans: how are adaptation policies and their practical measures distributed equitably among different urban areas, and how do they affect social, racial, ethnic, and other marginalized groups? However, the existing literature on urban adaptation measures is fragmented across various fields of knowledge. There is a notable lack of a cohesive conceptual framework that integrates these adaptation measures. This absence hinders our understanding of the social dimensions of these policies and their equitable distribution among diverse urban groups and neighborhoods, especially when many of them are implemented simultaneously. This paper aims to analyze the socially just aspects of urban adaptation measures and to explore their impact on socially, demographically, ethnically, and gender-diverse populations and groups. The central argument of this paper is that adaptation policies and their associated measures are not merely tools for implementation; rather, adaptation measures serve as significant carriers of social justice. This paper reviews multidisciplinary climate change adaptation policies and measures at the city scale. This analytical review is grounded in Jabareen’s multidisciplinary theory for building a conceptual framework. The analysis yields a new conceptual framework, which we refer to as the Conceptual Framework for Just-Oriented Adaptation Policies. This framework consists of six interconnected concepts of adaptation, with each concept encompassing various measures that collectively contribute to specific aspects of social justice. At the core of this framework lies the ontological concept of defensibility, which underpins adaptation policies aimed at protecting people and urban systems while enhancing the resilience of cities. Full article

Traditional inundation mapping often relies on deterministic methods that offer only binary outcomes (inundated or not) based on satellite imagery analysis. While widely used, these methods do not convey the level of confidence in inundation classifications to account for ambiguity or uncertainty, limiting their utility in operational decision-making and rapid response contexts. To address these limitations, we propose a rapid probabilistic inundation mapping method that integrates local thresholds derived from Sentinel-1 SAR images and land cover data to estimate surface water probabilities. Tested on different flood events across five continents, this approach proved both efficient and effective, particularly when deployed via the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. The performance metrics—Brier Scores (0.05–0.07), Logarithmic Loss (0.1–0.2), Expected Calibration Error (0.03–0.04), and Reliability Diagrams—demonstrated reliable accuracy. VV (vertical transmit and vertical receive) polarization, given appropriate samples, yielded strong results. Additionally, the influence of different land cover types on the performance was also observed. Unlike conventional deterministic methods, this probabilistic framework allows for the estimation of inundation likelihood while accounting for variations in SAR signal characteristics across different land cover types. Moreover, it enables users to refine local thresholds or integrate on-the-ground knowledge, providing enhanced adaptability over traditional methods. Full article

Work is a key social determinant of mental health, and adverse organizational conditions in healthcare settings increase psychosocial risks. Leadership influences workplace well-being, yet its impact on mental health and gender inequalities remains underexplored. Despite the feminization of the health sector, disparities persist in leadership access, role expectations, and work–family reconciliation, exacerbating occupational stress. Aims: This study examines leadership practices in public hospitals, focusing on their relationship with mental health, organizational dimensions (recognition and role stress), and gender disparities. It explores the perspectives of both workers and managers to understand how leadership shapes workplace conditions and well-being. Methods: A qualitative, cross-sectional study was conducted as part of the FONDECYT project 1220547. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 64 workers from public hospitals in Santiago, Chile, including clinical and administrative staff. The analysis supported by Grounded Theory identified key categories: constructive and destructive leadership, recognition, role stress, and gender disparities in leadership. Results: Constructive leadership—characterized by communication, fairness, and recognition—was linked to a healthier work environment and improved well-being. In contrast, destructive leadership (characterized by abuse of power and imposition, or inaction, lack of support, and absence of effective direction) contributed to role stress, workplace mistreatment, and job dissatisfaction. Recognition was a crucial but insufficient motivator, as the lack of formal mechanisms led to frustration. Role stress emerged as a significant risk for well-being, with subordinates experiencing overload, ambiguity, and conflicting expectations. Gender inequalities persisted as women faced more tremendous barriers to leadership and difficulties balancing work and family responsibilities. Workers and managers had differing perspectives, with subordinates prioritizing fairness and recognition while managers emphasized operational constraints. Conclusions: Leadership training should emphasize trust, equity, and recognition to enhance workplace well-being. Institutional policies must address role stress, strengthen formal recognition systems, and promote gender equity in leadership. Future research should integrate quantitative methods to explore leadership’s impact on organizational conditions and mental health outcomes. Full article

This study investigates the seismic performance of the V3.0 220 kV standard-designed substation of the Southern Power Grid, located in a high-intensity seismic zone, with a focus on the application of seismic isolation technology. Seismic isolation and structural analysis were conducted and shaking table tests were performed on both isolated and non-isolated structural models. A total of 40 tests were carried out using three levels of ground motion intensity (i.e., 140 gal, 400 gal, and 800 gal) and in three directions (unidirectional, bidirectional, and triaxial). The dynamic characteristics, seismic response, and isolation effectiveness were evaluated. Results indicate that the test models exhibit strong agreement with theoretical and numerical predictions, with an average frequency deviation of 10.98%. The fundamental period of the isolated structure was extended by a factor of 2.33 compared to the non-isolated configuration. As the peak ground acceleration increased, structural frequency decreased, and the period increased. The isolated structure showed a lower first-period growth rate (4.82%) than the non-isolated structure (15.38%). Even under 800 gal excitations, the isolated structure remained within the elastic range. Seismic isolation significantly reduced structural response, with a control effectiveness exceeding 50%, enabling a one-degree reduction in seismic design intensity. A vulnerability analysis based on 200 simulated earthquake cases revealed that the isolated structure exhibited lower failure probabilities across four performance states. At 600 gal PGA, the failure probability in the LS3 state was reduced by 27.8%. These findings confirm the effectiveness and reliability of seismic isolation design for substations in high seismic intensity regions. Full article

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure plays a pivotal role in mitigating “blue” (labor standard) and “green” (environmental standard) trade barriers, optimizing the foreign trade ecosystem, fostering sustainable development of export-oriented enterprises, and advancing societal welfare objectives—all critical to maintaining high-quality social order in China. Grounded in institutional and strategic management theories, this study systematically investigates the effects of CSR disclosure on corporate export performance, focusing on mediating and moderating mechanisms, and conducts rigorous empirical testing using comprehensive firm-level CSR disclosure data from Chinese listed companies. The results reveal the following key findings: (1) CSR disclosure positively influences corporate exports; (2) enterprise financing capacity and innovation output serve as dual mediating mechanisms, through which CSR disclosure enhances export performance by improving access to external capital and stimulating product/service innovation; (3) environmental regulations amplify the export-promoting effect of CSR disclosure, indicating that institutional environmental constraints incentivize firms to leverage disclosure as a strategic response to global sustainability demands; (4) heterogeneity analysis reveals that large enterprises derive the strongest export benefits from CSR disclosure, followed by medium-sized and small enterprises; and (5) private enterprises exhibit significantly greater export gains from CSR disclosure compared to state-owned enterprises. These results underscore the context-specific and multi-dimensional nature of CSR disclosure’s impact on exports, highlighting how firm size and ownership structure shape the efficacy of disclosure strategies in global markets. This study contributes to both academic literature on corporate sustainability and practical policy by demonstrating how strategic CSR disclosure can serve as a tool for overcoming institutional barriers and enhancing international competitiveness. Full article