bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Memorable Tourism Experiences Dimensions on Revisit Intentions
Authors: Stavrianea Aikaterini
Published: May 2024

The impact of the Memorable Tourism Experiences (MTEs) on the behavior of a consumer offers substantial further research potential, despite the interest exemplified in recent academic work. The aim is to investigate the impact of the seven dimensions of MTEs with reference to the visitor’s inclination to return to specific location. An online survey was used. 720 visitors to the Greek island of Santorini formed the quantitative research convenience sample. Reliability analysis as well as descriptive statistics and structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were carried out with the use of SPSS AMOS 23. Research revealed that the dimensions of hedonism, novelty, involvement and meaningfulness impact heavily on the traveler’s intention to return to a destination. The work evaluates the significance of the different dimensions and identifies the location’s key elements of MTEs. On a theoretical level, it adds to the existing literature by shedding new light on the emerging and underexplored topic of MTEs dimensions’ impact on the desire to revisit a destination. Practically, the tourist businesses have guidelines at their disposal pertaining to budget allocations as well as relevant MTEs improvements.
Spatial Redesign Examples on Boosting the Identity of a Region Through Tourism Practices
Authors: Fragkou Dionysia , Barkouta Ioanna
Published: May 2024

Since the dawn of twenty-first century, a growing interest in rethinking and reconfiguring heritage has spread among architects, theorists and residents as well. Lately, the health crisis has also destabilized the semantic content, and planning of mobility. The pressure exerted by these multiple a complex entanglement of climatological, social, technological and economic conditions seems to rapidly transform the up to then self-evident interrelationship between mobility, culture and sustainability rendering the boundaries between mobility and identity volatile. Such conceptual transformations are reflected in tourism, revealing the relocation of associations between region, community and environment. At the same time, the urgency of these multiple crises resulted in a new ‘tourism question’, accelerating transformations both in terms of theory and design. The overarching goal of this paper is to investigate in a systematic manner the new reconceptualization of cultural heritage, tourism practices and its architectural—spatial interaction. Moreover, the project aims to problematize the notion of ‘tourism crisis’ and examines its interconnection to identity and to region through a study of specific designed examples from the Department of Interior Architecture, University of West Attica, Greece. The paper’s outcomes are expected to enhance knowledge that is relevant to this new problematic on changing tourism practices and mobility modalities problematic as it is being imposed by multiple crises.
Social Media Use for Covid-19 Related Information: Generation X, Y and Z Differences
Authors: Mylona Ifigeneia , Amanatidis Dimitrios , Gioltzidou Georgia , Stavrianea Aikaterini , Kamenidou Irene , Mamalis Spyridon
Published: May 2024

Social media platforms seem to be popular for consumers and businesses as they provide new opportunities for interactivity, connectivity and information seeking. During Covid-19 there was an increase in the use of social media all over the world. The current study presents the results of a research that was conducted in 2021 during the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. It aims to explore and analyze social media usage during Covid-19 pandemic among the generation X, Y and Z cohorts in Greece regarding information about Covid-19. For this purpose, a questionnaire was designed and 312 responses were collected through online channels. By carrying out ANOVA analysis and Post Hoc tests, significant differences among generations X, Y, Z were noticed for the following questions: (a) quality of social media coverage with respect to Covid-19 (b) feeling of happiness and calmness while browsing social media during Covid-19 and (c) reliability of information obtained from social media pages with respect to the pandemic. On the other hand, referring to the feeling of anxiety or fear while browsing social media during Covid-19, no significant difference was observed. Implications are discussed for social media use from companies in related periods with crisis issues.
Views and Motivations of Members of Dance Groups During Their Participation in Traditional Dance Tourist Events
Authors: Sgoura Adamantia , Kontis Alexios Patapios , Stergiou Dimitrios
Published: May 2024

Cultural Tourism is one of the fastest growing forms of tourism and its development contributes not only to the economic development of a place but also to the preservation of traditions/demonstration of cultural heritage. One of the areas of cultural tourism that is on the rise is the organization of Dance Events and Festivals and this is because Dance Tourism combines the benefits to the tourism development of a place with the benefits to the physical and mental health of the individual. The present study, using data obtained through a quantitative approach, with a sample of 220 people, captures and analyses the motivations of people who participate in traditional dance learning groups as well as their criteria and attitudes for participation in dance events with tourist content. In addition, the analysis of the survey results provides a first impression of the contribution of dance tourism to the promotion and development of `tourist destinations.
Evaluation of University Students’ Satisfaction from e-Learning During the COVID Pandemic: A Multi-criteria Approach
Authors: Ntanos Stamatios , Drosos Dimitrios , Gkika Eleni C. , Kargas Antonios , Komisopoulos Faidon
Published: May 2024

Electronic educational technology for learning is an essential tool towards a knowledge-based society. As technology continuously evolves, our focus will be on the perception of satisfaction from the educational process, which was challenged to quickly switch to distance education in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, this paper examines university business students’ satisfaction from e-learning concerning various factors, such as platform reliability, functionality, efficiency, usability and trust. Data were collected by applying a structured questionnaire on a final sample of 368 students from September to October 2021. The results are based on the Multi-criteria Satisfaction Analysis (MUSA) method. The analysis highlighted the vital role of reliability and trust in the applied e-learning platform. Those aspects should be further improved in the future to increase the comfort of using distance learning tools and increase participants’ perceived satisfaction in the process.
The Creation of a Language Teaching Organisation (LTO): The Case of NSPLlab Under the Spectrum of Strategic Marketing
Authors: Pavlou Nektarios S.
Published: May 2024

The topic of this paper is the establishment and growth of a small Language Teaching Organisation (LTO) in Greece. In the present case study, we will explore the creation of a small personal LTO, named NSPLlab, and the prospects of its development through the lenses of Strategic Marketing (SM) after having reviewed the existing literature. In the modern world, the creation of a business entails a thorough consideration of several factors for the venture at hand to be seen as successful. At the same time, the educational aspect of the business can possibly cause a series of strategic alterations to the various existing managerial models and theories along with any practices used in a business framework. The integration of SM in the organisational effectiveness of an LTO could provide valuable insight for any LTO stakeholder, as well as contribute to the already established knowledge by the research conducted in the fields of SM strategies focusing on the development and operation of an LTO. The study aims mainly to constitute a comprehensive analysis of the operational parameters of such a business, while creating a healthily run educational entity and developing a lifelong educational culture to the customers-students. Having under scrupulous investigation the challenges faced by the managerial authority and the values at stake, in order to provide a model designed based on the idea of ethical leadership, we will try to give a possible plan or, in other words, a list of tips for any stakeholder to utilize while aiming to successful development not only of the LTO as a business venture itself, but also of a supportive and engaging environment in which the manager and any staff employed in the future in the LTO could thrive.
A Multi-criteria Analysis Method for the Evaluation of University Students’ Satisfaction
Authors: Drosos Dimitrios , Gkika Eleni C. , Kargas Antonios , Komisopoulos Faidon , Ntanos Stamatios
Published: May 2024

During the last few decades one of the most important factors in a Higher Education Institution (HEI) is the students’ satisfaction. University students’ satisfaction measurement should be one of the core processes of a HEI. The aim of this research is to measure and analyse students’ satisfaction for a business administration department of a Greek public university based on MUSA. The research results were based on the analysis of a convenient sample based on 387 questionnaires which were collected during the period between October to November 2021. One method of analysis that can be used for analysis is the multicriteria MUSA (Multicriteria Satisfaction Analysis) method. MUSA is an ordinal regression model which is based on the principles of multi-criteria decision analysis. The results show that the level of service which provided by the department of business administration is satisfactory (86.3%). Through this survey, decision-makers can learn how students view the services which receive from university and which aspects of student’s satisfaction need to be enhanced.
Inclusion and Sensory Accessibility in Hotels and Its Importance for Branding
Authors: Saltouridou Despoina , Poulios Ioannis
Published: May 2024

Accessibility is a crucial factor in the hospitality industry, especially concerning guests with special access needs [1]. While significant strides have been made to create environments conducive to mobility, efforts to support individuals with sensory challenges often require further improvement. The hospitality industry seems to be still far from ensuring equal opportunities and access for all visitors regardless of their diverse needs (including mobility, vision, hearing, and cognitive dimensions of access). The paper explores the challenges, as well as the opportunities, associated with sensory accessibility in the hotel industry. Strategies and technologies that allow hospitality providers to offer a more comprehensive and welcoming experience to all guests are key to quality accommodation. Training staff, utilizing technological tools, and education, along with the integration of innovative strategies and solutions, can significantly improve the customer experience. These advancements in service delivery and technology can offer a distinct and unparalleled experience for guests, exceeding the usual expectations of hotel hospitality. This not only enhances hotel branding and marketing but also emphasizes the importance of sensory accessibility. It is crucial to adopt best practices in the hospitality sector for guests with special access needs, aligning with branding and marketing strategies.
The Evolution of Subscription Services in Greece: From Satellite TV to Over-The-Top (OTT) Streaming Models
Authors: Papathanasopoulos Athanasios , Stavrianea Aikaterini
Published: May 2024

Media is a dynamic entity that undergoes constant transformations over time. While many users continue to watch traditional TV, new technologies and modes of transmission have emerged, creating new forms of media that challenge the dominance of television. This study explores the evolution of subscription services in Greece, with a focus on the transition from satellite TV to the current Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming models. The study covers the period from 2001 to 2023 and examines the factors that have contributed to the popularity and growth of these services in Greece. The research employs a historical analysis, utilizing data from respectable sources. The study reveals a transformative journey, from the dominance of satellite TV in the early 2000s, with NOVA, to the emergence of IPTV and the subsequent rise of OTT platforms, led by international giants like NETFLIX and AMAZON PRIME. Overall, this study aims to shed light on the adaptability and dynamism of the Greek pay-TV industry, providing valuable insights for media managers, broadcasters etc.
Factors Influencing the Use of Digital Marketing by Telemedicine Services
Authors: Zafeiria Papadaki , Anastasiadou Sofia , Masouras Andreas , Papalexandris Stylianos
Published: May 2024

Digital Marketing has offered additional existence to Telemedicine Services as well as health care services by improving their visibility in the virtual frame. Digital Marketing has offered unbelievable opportunities in the present decade. The concept of e-health service, e-patient, e-health, e-healthcare providers are more than familiar to individuals. In the matter-of-fact telemedicine has enhanced substantially, reaching over a percentage of 30% comparing the conventional medicine. The need to use telemedicine in times of pandemics, natural disasters, earthquakes and even war is also deemed imperative. For instance, during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the health system has changed radically as result of digitization processes and produced not only innovative products, but also new service practices and business models, replacing conventional structures. The quality of digital services and the customers’ satisfaction, e-patience’s, in our case, are the most principal parameters for digital marketing. Also, important elements for digital marketing are the willingness of customers to recommend telemedicine services to family, relatives, friends, colleagues, on social media, the addition for future use of the services, etc. The factors included in this research were the result of an extensive review of the international literature. This process resulted in a conceptual framework consisting of 9 factors (e.g. Perceived innovation (Compatibility), Willingness to recommend (Advocacy), Perceived Credibility, Perceived Risk, Use Intention, Risk Acceptance, Information Sharing, Perceived Risk, Perceived Usefulness). Tο test the research hypotheses, a survey was conducted on 412 participants. The results confirmed the proposed model. Digital marketers can use the above model to design and organize digital healthcare services for the benefit of the e-patient.
Factors Influencing the Acceptance of Blockchain Technology in the Tourism Industry
Authors: Christou Dimitra , Antoniadis Ioannis , Saprikis Vaggelis
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the acceptance of blockchain technology in the tourism industry, focusing on the role of intention and trust in influencing its acceptance. Through a literature review and quantitative analysis using regression analysis, key factors catalyzing the acceptance of blockchain technology in tourism were identified. Notably, individuals engaged in travel for entertainment showed lower intention to accept blockchain solutions. Trust in this technology within the tourism industry is observed to stem from individuals with prior experience in its usage. The research offers valuable insights for scholars studying blockchain technology in tourism and for enterprises and organizations seeking to embrace innovative solutions for enhancing operational efficiency. Moreover, nationality emerges as a potentially influential factor, warranting further exploration in future studies. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of the potential of blockchain technology in tourism and provides insights for enterprises and organizations seeking to adopt innovative solutions.
Attitudes and Perceptions of Messenia’s Residents on the Impacts Caused by Alternative Forms of Tourism
Authors: Anagnostopoulou Ioanna , Gdonteli Krinanthi , Athanasopoulou Pinelopi
Published: May 2024

Alternative forms of tourism are associated with environmental and cultural values that allow both the community and tourists to interact with each other and share their experiences. Framed by Butler’s Social Exchange Theory, this preliminary quantitative study examines the attitudes and perceptions of Messenia’s Prefecture’s residents, regarding the economic, environmental, and social, impacts caused by alternative tourism activities. The research tool was based on a review of relevant literature, and explored the social (10 items), economic (6 items) and environmental negative impacts (14 items) and the agreement to the statements were based on a five-point Likert scale ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree. The sample consisted of 112 permanent residents of Messenia Prefecture that were selected by random sampling. The study indicated that the major concern of participants towards the impacts of alternative tourism activities were the negative economic impacts. A positive correlation was observed between the negative social impacts of tourism and the participants’ income. Overall, most residents will be satisfied with a tourism increase in their region when if the economic benefits outweigh the negative impacts. This research attempts to identify the residents’ perceptions on tourism negative impacts where local authorities and stakeholders can consider the perceived implications, for the well-being of local communities.
ExercisesA
Authors: Rapp Christoph
Published: May 2024

Part III starts with Chapter 16, which comprises exercises in the fields of hydrostatics, outflow through orifices, momentum equation, free surface flow, pipe flow, unsteady free surface flow as well as cross-cutting issues.
Basic equations
Authors: Rapp Christoph
Published: May 2024

In Chapter 5 basic fluid mechanical equations are derived step by step. First, the continuity equation is deduced with the help of a ballon which passes through a constriction. Second, Cauchy’s equation of motion is set up with the stresses acting on a fluid volume which is described once more with a balloon that moves upon application of stress and gravity. The constitutive equation which describes the properties of the fluid considered is elaborated also from the scratch. With the above mentioned steps, it is easy to reach to the Euler and Navier-Stokes equations from which the Bernoulli and the momentum equation are derived.
Turbulence and its modelling
Authors: Rapp Christoph
Published: May 2024

Chapter 6 gives a very brief introduction to turbulence. This goes in line with a cursory approach to numerics and the description of the major strategies to compute streams three dimensionally.
Remediation: Detailed Improvement Measures
Authors: Pyman Mark , Heywood Paul M.
Published: May 2024

This chapter outlines eight categories of detailed remediation measures, to show how to go about generating plausible possibilities for taking action. The chapter provides a wide range of concrete examples that offer additional guidance.
Polyphased gold enrichment as a key process for high-grade gold formation: Insights from the 10 Moz Jundee-Bogada camp (Yilgarn Craton, Western Australia)
Authors: Sumail  , Thébaud Nicolas , Masurel Quentin , Petrella Laura , le Roux Peter , Stott Chris
Published: May 2024

High-grade (> 10 g/t) gold mineralization in orogenic gold deposits is of significant economic importance. Understanding the formation of such enriched ore zones is critical for gold exploration success. The world-class Jundee-Bogada gold camp in the Yilgarn Craton of Western Australia comprises both high-grade (avg. > 10 g/t, Jundee deposit) and low-grade (avg. < 3 g/t, Bogada prospect) lodes, despite shared host stratigraphy. The paragenetic framework established for the Jundee gold deposit suggests that the overall gold endowment developed over three deformation events. An early episode of low-grade gold mineralization is associated with colloform-crustiform veins that formed during extensional deformation (DJB2A). A switch to transtensional deformation (DJB2B) resulted in brecciation of the colloform-crustiform veins and coeval deposition of native gold. Late reverse faults record evidence for a third mineralization stage resulting from a NE-SW-directed shortening (DJB3). Mineralization during this late stage was dominantly low-grade, with local occurrences of ultra-high-grade ore zones (> 100 g/t). Each event records transient changes in fluid chemistry during continued hydrothermal activity that spanned local deformation histories. We argue that at the Jundee gold deposit, protracted gold enrichment during three polyphased mineralization episodes resulted in the formation of high-grade gold ores. Whereas the complete metallogenic history is recorded at the Jundee deposit, gold within the Bogada prospect was introduced solely during the late contractional stage (DJB3), resulting in a bulk low-grade endowment. We hypothesize that gold enrichment in high-grade orogenic gold deposits is a direct consequence of the spatial superimposition of protracted ore-forming events.
Therapeutic peptides for coronary artery diseases: in silico methods and current perspectives
Authors: Aslan Ayca , Ari Yuka Selcen
Published: May 2024

Many drug formulations containing small active molecules are used for the treatment of coronary artery disease, which affects a significant part of the world’s population. However, the inadequate profile of these molecules in terms of therapeutic efficacy has led to the therapeutic use of protein and peptide-based biomolecules with superior properties, such as target-specific affinity and low immunogenicity, in critical diseases. Protein‒protein interactions, as a consequence of advances in molecular techniques with strategies involving the combined use of in silico methods, have enabled the design of therapeutic peptides to reach an advanced dimension. In particular, with the advantages provided by protein/peptide structural modeling, molecular docking for the study of their interactions, molecular dynamics simulations for their interactions under physiological conditions and machine learning techniques that can work in combination with all these, significant progress has been made in approaches to developing therapeutic peptides that can modulate the development and progression of coronary artery diseases. In this scope, this review discusses in silico methods for the development of peptide therapeutics for the treatment of coronary artery disease and strategies for identifying the molecular mechanisms that can be modulated by these designs and provides a comprehensive perspective for future studies.
Bias-aware ranking from pairwise comparisons
Authors: Ferrara Antonio , Bonchi Francesco , Fabbri Francesco , Karimi Fariba , Wagner Claudia
Published: May 2024

Human feedback is often used, either directly or indirectly, as input to algorithmic decision making. However, humans are biased: if the algorithm that takes as input the human feedback does not control for potential biases, this might result in biased algorithmic decision making, which can have a tangible impact on people’s lives. In this paper, we study how to detect and correct for evaluators’ bias in the task of ranking people (or items) from pairwise comparisons. Specifically, we assume we are given pairwise comparisons of the items to be ranked produced by a set of evaluators. While the pairwise assessments of the evaluators should reflect to a certain extent the latent (unobservable) true quality scores of the items, they might be affected by each evaluator’s own bias against, or in favor, of some groups of items. By detecting and amending evaluators’ biases, we aim to produce a ranking of the items that is, as much as possible, in accordance with the ranking one would produce by having access to the latent quality scores. Our proposal is a novel method that extends the classic Bradley-Terry model by having a bias parameter for each evaluator which distorts the true quality score of each item, depending on the group the item belongs to. Thanks to the simplicity of the model, we are able to write explicitly its log-likelihood w.r.t. the parameters (i.e., items’ latent scores and evaluators’ bias) and optimize by means of the alternating approach. Our experiments on synthetic and real-world data confirm that our method is able to reconstruct the bias of each single evaluator extremely well and thus to outperform several non-trivial competitors in the task of producing a ranking which is as much as possible close to the unbiased ranking.
Modeling arboreal vegetation-induced friction and its influence on river flooding using a two-dimensional model
Authors: Herrera Gómez Verónica , Ramírez Franco Loren , Ravazzani Giovanni , Passoni Giuseppe , Mancini Marco
Published: May 2024

Extensive research on vegetation flow resistance at the laboratory scale has yielded numerous formulations for determining vegetation friction coefficients. However, implementing and validating these equations at the river scale is often complex due to the lack of data on vegetation features and flow characteristics during floods, resulting in a limited number of field application studies. In this research, we use the Telemac-2D hydrodynamic model in a new case study to evaluate the performance of five vegetation friction formulations applied to arboreal vegetation. Employing vegetation data acquired through field surveys and LiDAR, along with flow data collected during one of the highest peak floods recorded on the Piave River, we built a two-dimensional (2D) river model. This model considers existing arboreal vegetation and terrain conditions to compare observed water surface elevations (WSE) during the flood with those simulated using vegetation friction equations. Our findings reveal that all tested equations perform similarly in all simulations. While these equations overestimated WSE throughout most of the flood, they accurately predicted levels at the highest peak and its proximity. Additionally, we explore several vegetation scenarios, varying density and percentage of area covered by arboreal vegetation, to assess their effect on water levels and flood risk.
Illuminating Shades: A Qualitative Analysis of the Impact of a Four-Day Workweek on Subjective Well-being in Hungary
Authors: Venczel Timea
Published: May 2024

This study examines the implementation of the four-day week in a small Hungarian company, using qualitative research before and after the change. By conducting semi-structured interviews with all employees and the CEO, the paper explores, how social, organisational and individual factors influence the ability of employees to improve their subjective well-being through reduced working hours. The results indicate that the effects of mandated schedule changes are less about increased freedom from work and more about the ability to engage in personally meaningful activities. Interviews revealed four dimensions of well-being: temporal harmony, social involvement, advancement and autonomy. While the majority reported improved well-being, particularly in terms of temporal harmony and strengthened social ties, barriers such as misaligned schedules, rigid working hours and limited external support hindered improvements in well-being. The paper also describes the different perspectives of the manager and the employees on the changes implemented. Recognising potential factors and considering different aspects of working time reduction and employee well-being can help organisations use their working time policies to maximise the well-being of their employees in terms of not only the quantity but also the quality of their leisure time. This study adds to our understanding of the impact of reduced working time on individual and societal well-being.
Improving Emergency Department Care for Suicidality in Autism: Perspectives from Autistic Youth, Caregivers, and Clinicians
Authors: Cervantes Paige E. , Palinkas Lawrence A. , Conlon Greta R. , Richards-Rachlin Shira , Sullivan Katherine A. , Baroni Argelinda , Horwitz Sarah M.
Published: May 2024

A﻿bstract

Purpose: Emergency department (ED) visits for suicidal ideation and self-harm are more prevalent in autistic than non-autistic youth. However, providers are typically offered insufficient guidance for addressing suicide risk in autistic youth, likely impacting confidence and care. Methods: In this pilot study, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 17 key members of the autism community (i.e., autistic youth with a history of suicidality, caregivers of autistic youth with a history of suicidality, autism specialist clinicians, ED clinicians) to inform the development of recommendations for modifying ED care for autistic patients, with a focus on suicide risk screening and management. Results: Participants reported on challenges they encountered receiving or providing care and/or recommendations for improving care. Participant perspectives were aligned, and four main categories emerged: accounting for autism features, connection and youth engagement in care, caregiver and family involvement, and service system issues. Conclusion: As research continues in the development of autism-specific suicide risk assessment tools and management strategies, it is essential we better equip providers to address suicide risk in autistic patients, particularly in ED settings.
Truth, topicality, and transparency: one-component versus two-component semantics
Authors: Hawke Peter , Hornischer Levin , Berto Francesco
Published: May 2024

When do two sentences say the same thing, that is, express the same content? We defend two-component (2C) semantics: the view that propositional contents comprise (at least) two irreducibly distinct constituents: (1) truth-conditions and (2) subject-matter. We contrast 2C with one-component (1C) semantics, focusing on the view that subject-matter is reducible to truth-conditions. We identify exponents of this view and argue in favor of 2C. An appendix proposes a general formal template for propositional 2C semantics.
An Effective Hybrid Metaheuristic Algorithm for Solving Global Optimization Algorithms
Authors: Seyyedabbasi Amir , Tareq Tareq Wadhah Zeyad , Bacanin Nebojsa
Published: May 2024

Recently, the Honey Badger Algorithm (HBA) was proposed as a metaheuristic algorithm. Honey badger hunting behaviour inspired the development of this algorithm. In the exploitation phase, HBA performs poorly and stagnates at the local best solution. On the other hand, the sand cat swarm optimization (SCSO) is a very competitive algorithm compared to other common metaheuristic algorithms since it has outstanding performance in the exploitation phase. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to hybridize HBA with SCSO so that the SCSO can overcome deficiencies of the HBA to improve the quality of the solution. The SCSO can effectively exploit optimal solutions. For the research conducted in this paper, a hybrid metaheuristic algorithm called HBASCSO was developed. The proposed approach was evaluated against challenging CEC benchmark instances taken from CEC2015, CEC2017, and CEC2019 benchmark suites The HBASCSO is also evaluated concerning the original HBA, SCSO, as well as several other recently proposed algorithms. To demonstrate that the proposed method performs significantly better than other competitive algorithms, 30 independent runs of each algorithm were evaluated to determine the best, worst, mean, and standard deviation of fitness functions. In addition, the Wilcoxon rank-sum test is used as a non-parametric comparison, and it has been found that the proposed algorithm outperforms other algorithms. Hence, the HBASCSO achieves an optimum solution that is better than the original algorithms.
Electroacupuncture Downregulating Neuronal Ferroptosis in MCAO/R Rats by Activating Nrf2/SLC7A11/GPX4 Axis
Authors: Zhu Wei , Dong Jianjian , Han Yongsheng
Published: May 2024

Ischemic stroke involves various pathological processes, among which ferroptosis is crucial. Previous studies by our group have indicated that electroacupuncture (EA) mitigates ferroptosis after ischemic stroke; however, the precise mechanism underlying this effect remains unclear. In the present study, we developed a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion. We chose the main acupoint of the treatment methods of the “Awakening and Opening of the Brain”. Rats’ neurological function and motor coordination were evaluated by neurological function score and the rotarod test, respectively, and the volume of cerebral infarction was analyzed by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride Staining. The cerebrovascular conditions were visualized by time-of-flight magentic resonance angiography. In addition, we detected changes in lipid peroxidation and endogenous antioxidant activity by measuring the malondialdehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase activities, glutathione/oxidized glutathione and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate/oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate ratios. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, western blot, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, fluoro-jade B staining, immunofluorescence analysis, and transmission electron microscopy were utilized to examine the influence of EA. The results indicate that EA treatment was effective in reversing neurological impairment, neuronal damage, and protecting mitochondrial morphology and decreasing the cerebral infarct volume in the middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion rat model. EA reduced iron levels, inhibited lipid peroxidation, increased endogenous antioxidant activity, modulated the expression of several ferroptosis-related proteins, and promoted nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation. However, the protective effect of EA was hindered by the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385. These findings suggest that EA can suppress ferroptosis and decrease damage caused by cerebral ischemia/reperfusion by activating Nrf2 and increasing the protein expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 and glutathione peroxidase 4.
The Reflective Practice Framework for Phenomenographic Data Analysis
Authors: Rotar Olga
Published: May 2024

In phenomenographic studies, the use of reflection is not commonly reported. Drawing on the different schools of thought and reported frameworks, this paper introduces the Reflective Practice Framework for phenomenographic data analysis. The article describes theoretical stances and constituent elements of the framework, which consist of the two levels and five steps of reflection. The application of the framework allows for a systemic account of situational factors and personal influences during the process of phenomenographic data analysis. The framework provides a clear-cut guideline for novice phenomenographers on how to maintain reflection when working on the analysis of unstructured phenomenographic data and considering assumptions, biases, and alternative perspectives.
Optimization of the generalized covariance estimator in noncausal processes
Authors: Cubadda Gianluca , Giancaterini Francesco , Hecq Alain , Jasiak Joann
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the performance of routinely used optimization algorithms in application to the Generalized Covariance estimator (GCov) for univariate and multivariate mixed causal and noncausal models. The GCov is a semi-parametric estimator with an objective function based on nonlinear autocovariances to identify causal and noncausal orders. When the number and type of nonlinear autocovariances included in the objective function are insufficient/inadequate, or the error density is too close to the Gaussian, identification issues can arise. These issues result in local minima in the objective function, which correspond to parameter values associated with incorrect causal and noncausal orders. Then, depending on the starting point and the optimization algorithm employed, the algorithm can converge to a local minimum. The paper proposes the Simulated Annealing (SA) optimization algorithm as an alternative to conventional numerical optimization methods. The results demonstrate that SA performs well in its application to mixed causal and noncausal models, successfully eliminating the effects of local minima. The proposed approach is illustrated by an empirical study of a bivariate series of commodity prices.
Logical abductivism on abductive logic
Authors: Mancini Filippo
Published: May 2024

Logical abductivism is the epistemic view about logic according to which logical theories are justified by abduction (or Inference to the Best Explanation), that is on how well they explain the relevant evidence, so that the correct logical theory turns out to be the one that explains it best. Arguably, this view should be equally applied to both deductive and non-deductive logics, abduction included. But while there seems to be nothing wrong in principle in using abduction to determine the correct logical theories of deduction and induction, things might be more complicated regarding logical theories of abduction. We may wonder whether allowing for an abductive justification of a theory of abduction is an epistemically legitimate move, since here circularity casts its shadow and makes the situation darker. This is the issue to which this work is devoted. I will defend that, to be effective, an abductive justification for a theory of abduction calls for a justification of abduction in advance, which we do not yet have.
The Crisis of Romantic Knowledge: The Role of Information and Ignorance in Times of Romantic Abundance
Authors: Ben-Ze’ev Aaron
Published: May 2024

Most crises of knowledge stem from lack of information. The current crisis of romantic knowledge stems from the opposite reason: too much information. The abundance of romantic information is the main reason for this crisis, making the romantic realm more complex, diverse and flexible than ever. In recent times, there has become a significantly greater emphasis on romantic ignorance. Romantic abundance facilitates finding a romantic (and sexual) partner, but is an obstacle for initiating and maintaining enduring, profound romantic relationships. A major optimal tool for overcoming these difficulties is a combination of intuition and deliberate thinking. The abundance of romantic information does not make adequate knowledge easy to obtain, and conversely has created a far more complex minefield to navigate. Nevertheless, our contemporary society has enabled the most flourishing romantic environment in the history of love.
A review of minimal access surgery provision and training within the United Kingdom
Authors: Boal Matthew W. E. , Tan Jessica J. , Sangarapillai Shameena , Mahendran Vimaladhithan , Thrikandiyur Anuradha , Wilkins Alexander , Jaffer Ata , Abdul-Kader Nayaab , Choudhry Hamzah I. , Patel Rikesh , Day Andrew R. , Francis Nader K. , Morrison Tamsin E. M. ,   the Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland (ALSGBI) Academy Research Group, London, UK
Published: May 2024

When combined with healthcare pressures, the exponential growth of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) has impacted UK-based training outcomes, including the learning curve to competency. Aim: To ascertain the current provision of RAS and investigate differences in access to minimal access surgical (MAS) facilities and training across the UK. A two-armed electronic survey was conducted. The first arm questioned clinical leads regarding robotic practice and future training provisions. The second investigated trainee and trainers’ perceptions of MAS training and facilities. 64% (52/81) of responding trusts utilise a robotic system. The majority (68% [55/81]) have plans to expand or acquire a system within 3 years. 171 responses from 112 UK and Republic of Ireland hospitals were collected for Arm 2. Laparoscopic categories queried whether trainees had access to a formal curriculum, training days and sim-boxes. Most consultants (51.9%) and trainees (51.6%) reported that there was no formal local training curriculum for robotic surgery. Combined responses demonstrated 42.1% (n = 195/463) said “yes”, 39.5% (n = 183) “no” and 18.4% (n = 85) “don’t know”. For combined robotic categories (simulation, training days and operative lists) 28.3% (n = 134/473) responded “yes”, 51.6% (n = 244) said “no” and 20.1% (n = 95) said “don’t know”. This study provides insight into the current provision of robotic-assisted surgery at UK trusts and highlights the need to facilitate regular clinical training and equitable access to MAS simulation within a formal curriculum. This may aid regulation of training in parallel with the expansion of robotic practice and avoid a significant skill acquisition gap and risks to patient safety.
No Strings Attached: How Catholic Institutions Prospered at the Expense of the Administrative State and Patient Autonomy
Authors: Freedman Lori , Paul-Emile Kimani
Published: May 2024

Catholic hospitals and health systems have proliferated and succeeded in American healthcare; they now operate four of the largest health systems and serve nearly one in six hospital patients. Like other religious entities that Wuest and Last write about in this issue, in their article Church Against State, they have benefited by and supported the long reach of conservative efforts to undermine the administrative state.
Can exposure to sexual objectification impact policy attitudes? Evidence from two survey experiments
Authors: Gothreau Claire M. , Schuessler Julian , Alvarez Amanda Milena
Published: May 2024

Research in social psychology has long argued that exposure to objectifying portrayals of women can lead to increasingly misogynist attitudes and behavior. We argue that such images can also impact on gendered policy attitudes. We suggest that objectifying images prime sexist attitudes and reduce perceptions of women’s agency, warmth, and competence. We argue that this may translate into decreased support for reproductive rights and other gender-salient policies. Furthermore, these effects may vary by the gender of those exposed to these images. In two survey experiments with brief exposures to objectifying images, we find mixed support for these predictions. Although we find some negative effects as predicted, we also find positive effects of objectification among women in the sample that are suggestive of a backlash effect. We discuss potential explanations for this heterogeneity. Overall, our results suggest interesting avenues to further explore the effects of objectification on political outcomes.
Phylogeny and morphology of some European cyathocotylid digeneans (Trematoda: Diplostomoidea)
Authors: Sokolov S.G. , Vlasenkov S.A. , Bugmyrin S.V. , Kalmykov A.P. , Lebedeva D.I.
Published: May 2024

The Cyathocotylidae Mühling, 1898 is a family of primitive diplostomoid trematodes important for understanding the evolution of the superfamily Diplostomoidea. However, cyathocotylids remain poorly studied with the use of molecular techniques. In this study we sequenced the 5.8S + ITS2 region, 28S rRNA, and cox1 genes of two cyathocotylid species and obtained new morphological data on them. We propose Georduboisia nom. nov. instead of the preoccupied name Duboisia Szidat, 1936 (junior homonym of Duboisia Stremme, 1911). Adults of Georduboisia cf. teganuma (Ishii, 1935) and Paracoenogonimus ovatus Katsurada, 1914 were collected from fish-eating birds in the south of the European part of Russia. Georduboisia cf. teganuma was very similar to G.teganuma but differed from it in the shape of the testes. The 28S rRNA gene dataset provided the best-resolved phylogeny of the Cyathocotylidae to date. In the phylogram based on partial sequences of this gene, P. ovatus was close to members of Holostephanoides Dubois, 1983, Neogogatea Chandler & Rausch, 1947 and Gogatea Szidat, 1936. Georduboisia cf. teganuma clustered with members of Cyathocotyle Mühling, 1896 and Holostephanus Szidat, 1936. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 5.8S + ITS2 dataset showed that adults of P. ovatus examined in our study were conspecific with the metacercariae from the musculature of fish collected in Hungary and Italy. It also revealed probable misidentifications of larvae and adults of cyathocotylids whose sequences are deposited in GenBank NCBI.
Surface and Sub‐Surface Kinetic Energy Wavenumber‐Frequency Spectra in Global Ocean Models and Observations
Authors: Ansong Joseph K. , Arbic Brian K. , Nelson Arin D. , Alford Matthew H. , Kunze Eric , Menemenlis Dimitris , Savage Anna C. , Shriver Jay F. , Wallcraft Alan J. , Buijsman Maarten C.
Published: May 2024

This paper examines spectra of horizontal kinetic energy (HKE) in the surface and sub‐surface ocean, with an emphasis on internal gravity wave (IGW) motions, in global high‐resolution ocean simulations. Horizontal wavenumber‐frequency spectra of surface HKE are computed over seven oceanic regions from two global simulations of the HYbrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM) and three global simulations of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology general circulation model (MITgcm). In regions with high IGW activity, high surface HKE variance in the horizontal wavenumber‐frequency spectra is aligned along IGW linear dispersion curves. For both HYCOM and MITgcm, and in almost all regions, finer horizontal resolution yields more energetic supertidal IGW continuum spectra. The ratio of high‐horizontal‐wavenumber variance in semi‐diurnal and supertidal motions relative to lower‐frequency motions, a quantity of great interest for swath altimetry, depends on the model employed and the horizontal resolution within the model, implying that quantitative predictions of the partition between low‐ and high‐frequency motions taken from particular simulations should be treated with care. The frequency‐vertical wavenumber spectra, frequency spectra, and vertical wavenumber spectra from the models are compared to spectra computed from McLane profilers at nine locations. In general, MITgcm spectra match the McLane profiler spectra more closely at high frequencies (|ω| > 4.5 cpd). In both models, vertical wavenumber spectra roll off more steeply than observations at high vertical wavenumbers (m > 10−2 cpm). The vertical wavenumber spectra in such models is an important target for improvement, due to turbulence production and dissipation that takes place at high vertical wavenumbers.
Simplifications and approximations in a single-gene circuit modeling
Authors: Barton Alejandro , Sesin Pablo , Diambra Luis
Published: May 2024

The absence of detailed knowledge about regulatory interactions makes the use of phenomenological assumptions mandatory in cell biology modeling. Furthermore, the challenges associated with the analysis of these models compel the implementation of mathematical approximations. However, the constraints these methods introduce to biological interpretation are sometimes neglected. Consequently, understanding these restrictions is a very important task for systems biology modeling. In this article, we examine the impact of such simplifications, taking the case of a single-gene autoinhibitory circuit; however, our conclusions are not limited solely to this instance. We demonstrate that models grounded in the same biological assumptions but described at varying levels of detail can lead to different outcomes, that is, different and contradictory phenotypes or behaviors. Indeed, incorporating specific molecular processes like translation and elongation into the model can introduce instabilities and oscillations not seen when these processes are assumed to be instantaneous. Furthermore, incorporating a detailed description of promoter dynamics, usually described by a phenomenological regulatory function, can lead to instability, depending on the cooperative binding mechanism that is acting. Consequently, although the use of a regulating function facilitates model analysis, it may mask relevant aspects of the system’s behavior. In particular, we observe that the two cooperative binding mechanisms, both compatible with the same sigmoidal function, can lead to different phenotypes, such as transcriptional oscillations with different oscillation frequencies.