Effect of current corrugations on the stability of the tearing mode

The generation of zonal magnetic fields in laboratory fusion plasmas is predicted by theoretical and numerical models and was recently observed experimentally. It is shown that the modification of the current density gradient associated with such corrugations can significantly affect the stability of the tearing mode. A simple scaling law is derived that predicts the impact of small stationary current corrugations on the stability parameter $\Delta'$. The described destabilization mechanism can provide an explanation for the trigger of the Neoclassical Tearing Mode (NTM) in plasmas without significant MHD activity.Comment: Accepted to Physics of Plasma

The different shades of brand hate: A qualitative approach

While Brand Love has been extensively studied, Brand Hate is still in the early stages of its theoretical development. Aiming to reduce that gap, this project has three main goals: first, conduct a thorough literature review, seeking to consolidate what has been written about the concepts of love, hate, brand love, brand hate and several supportive elements such as emotions, consumer-brand relationships, brand and anti-brand communities; second, perform and code multiple semi-structured/in-depth interviews, analyse and discuss the Portuguese costumer’s perception on the topic and link it with academia; third, build a literate crossing between Marketing and Linguistics that can be used by future studies. Supporting these objectives is the Constructivist Grounded Theory methodology. Among the findings generated by this process, seven facets were uncovered: emotions are essential to the shopping experience; there is an occasional contemporaneity between diverse elements of Active Brand Hate; Negative Past Experiences was the most cited antecedent of Brand Hate; it is possible to turn Brand Hate into neutral or positive relationships, but so is the inverse; Negative Double Jeopardy should be divided into parcels; Oppositional Brand Loyalty ought be tested as another antecedent; there are dissimilar types of Brand Hostages.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

I am attracted to my Cool Smart Assistant! Analyzing attachment-aversion in AI-human relationships

The conversation between humans and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled intelligent voice assistants (IVA) can create bonds that go beyond a mere utilitarian purpose. The emotional cues in a Human-AI conversation can lead consumers to feel connected with the AI-agents and even consider such a relationship as cool. Although brand coolness is known to affect consumer behavior, little is known about how consumers perceive a close relationship with IVAs and what the drivers of their use or avoidance are. Therefore, the current paper adds to the literature by analyzing how AI-enabled voice assistant experience affects IVA coolness and customer-brand relationships using the attachment-aversion (A-A) theory. A total of 308 consumers showed that affective, behavioral, and intellectual experiences with the intelligent voice assistant affect IVA coolness. IVA coolness was also found to affect A-A relationships positively, influencing consumers’ motivational strength to adopt, maintain and enhance the relationship in the future.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Green purchase behavior: A systematic review

Environmental sustainability is one of today’s most urgent concerns, on which human consumption is considered to have substantial impact. As a result of the ecosystems’ over-exploitation, the world faces unprecedented consequences such as greenhouse effects, climate change, wildlife extinction, air, soil and water pollution (Barbarossa and de Pelsmacker, 2016; Liobikienė et al., 2016; Rausch and Kopplin, 2021). The change into sustainable consumption constitutes a fundamental opportunity for reducing our impact and for economic growth, as the emerging consciousness increase the demand for green product innovations (Han et al., 2017; Olson, 2013). As a long trail of theories explores the motives behind this complex phenomenon, many of the evidence point towards a significant gap between consumer concerns and actual behavior, with many studies only able to predict purchase intention, as further confirmed in a set of eight systematic reviews and meta-analysis (Bamberg and Möser, 2007; Groening et al., 2018; Klöckner, 2013; Li et al., 2019; Loureiro et al., 2021; Rivis et al., 2009; Sheppard et al., 1988), which together encompass 292 different data tests, a combined sample of 59,550 observations and over 1,100 peer-reviewed documents. Aiming to tackle this well-documented gap, a systematic review was conducted using (Christofi et al., 2017; Tranfield et al., 2003). Our objective is to contribute towards a better understanding of what drives Actual Green Purchase Behavior (AGPB) by: (i) gathering a comprehensive collection of meaningful contributions; (ii) discussing emerging trends, dominant latent topics and constructs; (iii) synthesizing the main findings, gaps and contradictions. Database search for English peer-reviewed articles, was completed across all related business, social and environmental sciences on Scopus/Web of Science (WoS), not restricted to any specific publication period. In the initial set, 777 articles were extracted, after merging databases and removing duplicates. This number was reduced to 183 by the processes of title, abstract screening, and full-text reading. Final selection criteria were adapted from literature (Loureiro et al., 2021): (i) article fit with the research goals; (ii) robust use and development of theory within present literature; (iii) logical theory-methods-data flow; (iv) relevance of practical and theoretical contributions. The theories of Planned Behavior, Value-Belief-Norm and Norm Activation are the most influential, with their appropriateness verified across a widely diverse of PEB activities, mainly using quantitative methods. Despite the sizeable trail of research using these rational-based models, concerns are raised about their sufficiency (Liang et al., 2019; Perugini and Bagozzi, 2001; Sheppard et al., 1988) and thus additional influencers are suggested for further research, yet to be integrated and validated empirically into a single conceptual model. Three main types of concepts are identified as able to drive AGPB: cognitive, normative and emotional factors. Possessing a high level of knowledge has been found to exert influence on green behavioral processes (Rausch and Kopplin, 2021), which seems to be interconnected with the notion of environmental care (Policarpo and Aguiar, 2020) and with evaluating the perceived sum of benefits (Hamzah and Tanwir, 2021; Rezvani et al., 2018). On the other hand, the debate between altruistic norms and complying with socially appropriate forms of conduct, is one the main topics of discussion, with both personal and social norms described as strong motivational basis for behavior context (de Leeuw et al., 2015; Stern, 2000). Moreover, addressing the lower predictive value of cognitive and normative constructs, when attempting to explain actual behavior instead of intention, recent evidence suggests that the influence of emotions can outweigh cognitions (Liang et al., 2019) – or better yet, complement them - and ignite consumer decision making (Bagozzi et al., 1999; Han et al., 2018). Affective beliefs provide the required motivational content (Bechara et al., 2000; Perugini and Bagozzi, 2001) to trigger individual’s action, as also supported by neuroscience. Based on the present discussion, we propose the following propositions: P1: Cognitive factors are positively associated with AGPB; P2: Normative factors are positively associated with AGPB; P3: Emotional factors are positively associated with AGPB. Additional factors were found to influence AGPB, such as the coolness of brands, the role of category and cultural values. Regarding brand coolness, its role in activating passionate desire is demonstrated in the context of luxury fashion brands (Loureiro et al., 2020) and stablished as a positive quality, related to how brand personality resonates to consumers. Its specific dimensions were revealed and tested in cross-country studies, through an empirically confirmed scale (Warren et al., 2019). The role of category is another factor to examine (Liobikienė et al., 2016; Rezvani et al., 2018), with evidence of consumer response to vary accordingly across three distinct categories of sustainable products (Rahman, 2018). Furthermore, it seems appropriate to assume that most aspects of consumer behavior are culture bound (de Mooij and Hofstede, 2011). Based on those findings, we suggest that: P4: Brand Coolness moderate the relationship between Cognitive (4a), Normative (4b), Emotional factors (4c) and AGPB; P5: Product Category role moderate the relationship between Cognitive (5a), Normative (5b), Emotional factors (5c) and AGPB; P6: Cultural Values moderate the relationship between Cognitive (6a), Normative (6b), Emotional factors (6c) and AGPB. In summary, we argue that scientific knowledge and sustainable marketing fields would benefit from examining actual behavior, instead of purchase intentions, as a complex structure of barriers, motivations and intervening factors may be influencing (or blocking) the conversion of environmental concerns and attitudes into actions. For that effect, this study is unique because it explores an original set of topics, reviewing, and categorizing an unprecedented collection of suitable contributions from behavioral science, environmental and management literature. Based on the main theoretical arguments and empirical evidence available, we have uncovered the key elements which we believe can explain actual green purchase behavior. A new conceptual framework is proposed, which is - to be the best of our knowledge - the first to combine emotional, cognitive, and normative processes, while integrating new moderator effects often suggested in recent literature. We expect to assist researchers in conceptualizing different means of influencing sustainable consumer behavior and to stimulate future research, which can further explore and test the propositions here suggested, for a more comprehensive perspective on this domain. Moreover, new implications will be shared for the implementation of more effective managerial practices, communication strategies, social marketing campaigns and community interventions, for both business and non-for-profit organizations, useful for a diverse group of stakeholders such as policy makers, corporate and opinion leaders. Finally, we hope that our study can serve as a resource for both academic researchers and marketing practitioners seeking to further understand and advance the field of green marketing. Marketing plays a large role in influencing individual concerns and commitment with reducing impact on the environment, and thus can promote the achievement of customer needs, business goals and sustainable development at same time, without compromising among them, re-defining its own role, and embracing the new paradigm as opportunity for a more viable future.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Shaping a view on the influence of technologies on sustainable tourism

To date, tourism is the fastest growing industry globally, but one of the least developed in terms of environmentally sustainable practices. However, only a small portion of documents elaborate on how the introduction of new technologies can impact a more sustainable development route for tourism. This study’s objective is to provide an overview on literature state‐of‐the‐art related to sustainable tourism and technological innovations, offering insights for further advancing this domain. We employ a bibliometric analysis and a comprehensive review of 139 articles, collected from Web of Science and Scopus databases, for the purpose of: (i) exploring and discussing the most relevant contributions in the publication network: (ii) highlighting key issues and emerging topics; (iii) uncovering open questions for the future. Our findings reveal contradictory views on the risks and benefits of technology adoption. Artificial intelligence, internet of things, circular economy, big data, augmented and virtual reality emerge as major trends. Five work streams are identified and described, leading to a broader perspective on how technology can shape the future of sustainable tourism. Relevant theoretical and managerial implications are derived. Finally, a research agenda is proposed as guidance for future studies addressing the outcomes of digital disruption on sustainable tourism.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Fatigue behaviour of AA6082-T6 MIG welded butt joints improved by friction stir processing

Friction Stir Processing (FSP) was based on the principles of Friction Stir Welding (FSW), a solid-state joining process originally developed for aluminium alloys. It is an emerging metalworking technique which can provide localized modification and control of microstructures in near-surface layers of processed metallic components. In this research, FSP appears as an alternative to traditional methods for fatigue strength improvement of weld joints, such as re-melting, hammering and blasting. This technique was applied on Metal Inert Gas (MIG) butt welds with and without reinforcement, performed on AA6082-T6 alloy plates. The potential benefits of post-processing MIG welds by FSP were studied using microstructure analysis, hardness measurement, tensile strength, residual stress measurement, and fatigue testing. Fatigue tests were carried out under constant amplitude loading with the stress ratio R set to 0. Friction stir processing of MIG welds does not change the hardness and mechanical strength of the weld substantially, but the fatigue strength was increased, due to the geometry modification in the weld toe, reduction of weld defects and grain refinement of the microstructure

Fashion brands communicating and interacting in Instagram: a netnography approach

The study aims to analyze and compare how fashion brands of different categorization communicate in Instagram. Six global brands (Zara, H&M, Prada, Gucci, Nike, and Adidas) are chosen to be analyzed due to their different type/category of brands and their worldwide recognition. Netnography concept and method is used to conduct the data collection and data analyze during a period of time of six mouth. The results show that overall fast fashion brands (Zara and H&M) emerge to be more effective than other fashion categories in online communication. The Haute-de-couture brands (Prada and Gucci) reveal to be very similar in the way they communicate, demonstrating a good level of interactivity with consumers. The Sports brand (Nike and Adidas) have a low level of communication with the consumers and low number of photos and videos uploaded, which results in an average online communication of the brands in Instagram. This research highlights that to be successful in the online communication, fashion brands must be always updating photos and videos, they need to interact with consumers and make them feel a part of the brand, use celebrities to give more notoriety to the brand and be always present in the latest trends.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Ploidy stability in embryogenic cultures and regenerated plantlets of tamarillo

Ploidy levels of short-term (1 and 2 years) and long-term (7 and 10 years) embryogenic cultures as well as of regenerated plantlets of tamarillo were analyzed by flow cytometry and chromosome counts. Embryogenic cultures were induced from expanding leaves cultured in the presence of Picloram or 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and monthly subcultured on the same media. Embryo development and plantlets were obtained following subculture of the embryogenic tissue in auxin free medium containing gibberellic acid (GA3). Seedlings and rooted shoots from axillary shoot proliferation were used as controls. The results showed that in long-term embryogenic cultures the ability to develop somatic embryos and plantlets was reduced. Embryogenic tissues maintained for 10 years were mostly aneuploids of the tetraploid (2n = 4x = 48) level whereas those kept in culture for 7 years or less were also mostly aneuploids but of the diploid (2n = 2x = 24) level. The results obtained by flow cytometry were, in general, consistent with those obtained by chromosome counts. The chromosome alteration observed in the embryogenic tissues was already present after 1 year of culture and increased with culture age, hence impairing the maintenance of these tissues for long periods without affecting chromosome stability of the regenerated plantlets. However, the occurrence of triploids and tetraploids as well as aneuploids can be useful for breeding purposes. A value around 23 pg/2C was found for the genome size of tamarillo largely exceeding the value previously published (15.50 pg/2C).This work was supported by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)

Mapping case studies of public engagement and participation in science and technology

In recent years, increasing criticism has been levelled against case study based research on public engagement and participation in science and technology (PEST). Most critics argue that such case studies are highly contextual and fail to provide global, holistic and systemic views of public engagement phenomena. In this study, we mapped the case study literature on PEST by identifying a robust sample of articles, and analysed it looking for emerging patterns that could provide empirical evidence for new frameworks of public engagement design and analysis. Results show that the case study based literature on PEST continues to grow, although concentrated in a few countries and knowledge domains. The trends that emerged from the sample reveal high centralisation and planning and suggest that deficit science communication models are still common. We argue that future frameworks may focus on decentralising hierarchical power and dependency relationships between agents.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio