Principles Of Theory Research Articles

Developing a range-wide sampling framework for endangered species: a case study with light-footed Ridgway’s rail

Abstract Monitoring provides the foundation for evaluating recovery of endangered species, yet many species lack monitoring programs designed to integrate a species’ unique attributes, specific monitoring objectives, and principles of statistical sampling theory. We developed a framework for monitoring and assessment of endangered light-footed Ridgway’s rails (Rallus obsoletus levipes) across their U.S. range, relative to multi-scale recovery goals. We created spatially explicit sample units and a sampling frame covering all potential habitat to facilitate range-wide probability sampling, and also built a model of the call-broadcast process commonly used to survey marsh birds that included heterogeneity in availability for detection and conditional detectability for each bird during each survey. We used the model to simulate 96 sampling strategies that included different levels of replication, multiple approaches for sample allocation amongst strata, and both simple random and weighted probability sampling (i.e., weights proportional to local rail abundance) of sample units within strata. Effective monitoring surveyed ≥ 20–30% of the sampling frame on ≥ 3 occasions, with weighted sample selection and more targeted sampling (50% of units) for strata that are key to species recovery. We also tested Bayesian N-mixture models for estimating abundance and show that multiple models provide reasonable estimates. This work lays the foundation for statistical sampling and multi-scale population estimation for an endangered bird, and for refinement of abundance estimation models. Moreover, this work provides a replicable process for building customized and statistically defensible sampling frameworks to assess recovery of endangered species that can be used for other sensitive species.

Research on upper bound limit analysis of slope stability in open-pit mine based on least square principle

So as to extend the application of upper bound limit analysis for slope stability in open-pit mine, this paper analyzed failure mechanism of rock mass when shear failure occurred based on plastic mechanics principles, and combined with discrete mathematical theory and least square principle to propose a visualization method of logarithmic spiral. At the same time, the visualization method was applied to engineering practice for slope stability in open-pit mine, and cycle algorithm of stability analysis for open-pit mine slope was proposed through energy balance conditions, then stability analysis results were evaluated reasonably through uniting with limit equilibrium method. The results show that visualization method of logarithmic spiral proposed in this paper is highly consistent with original curve, and can ensure correlation coefficient square is greater than 0.9995. What is more, upper bound limit analysis method has a superhigh accuracy in slope engineering. At the same time, the most dangerous sliding surface obtained by this method can satisfy the requirements of velocity separation, which solved velocity problems during the process of slope evolution. Therefore, the method proposed in this paper has a stronger application in the field of open-pit mining.

Ultra-Broadband Mode (De)Multiplexer on Thin-Film Lithium Niobate Platform Adopting Phase Control Theory.

Mode (de)multiplexers (MDMs) serve as critical foundational elements within systems for facilitating high-capacity communication, relying on mode conversions achieved through directional coupler (DC) structures. However, DC structures are challenged by dispersion issues for broadband mode coupling, particularly for high-order modes. In this work, based on the principles of phase control theory, we have devised an approach to mitigate the dispersion challenges, focusing on a thin-film lithium niobate-on-onsulator (LNOI) platform. This solution involves integrating a customized inverse-dispersion section into the device architecture, offsetting minor phase shifts encountered during the mode coupling process. By employing this approach, we have achieved broadband mode conversion from TE0 to TE1 and TE0 to TE2 within a 300 nm wavelength range, and the maximum deviations were maintained below -0.68 dB and -0.78 dB, respectively. Furthermore, the device exhibited remarkably low crosstalk, reaching down to -26 dB.

Jail Adaptation and Loyalty to the Code of the Incarcerated

This article assesses the ability of the adaptation theories of deprivation and importation to explain loyalty to the “inmate” code in a jail setting. The code emphasizes shared values such as respectability, toughness, self-reliance, domination, violence, distrust of institutions, and not meddling or snitching. Prior literature assessing how people adjust to incarceration has used the theories of deprivation or importation mainly to examine prison conduct. Research about the code of the incarcerated has also failed to examine the code in jails. Given the history of mass incarceration and the accompanying impact on correctional facilities, we should subsequently reassess the principles of adaptation theories, including their role in code loyalty, and specifically in the jail setting. In this study, we used nested, ordinary least squares regression to analyze the results of a survey conducted in two jail facilities in one state. Though loyalty to the code in jails was explained by the tenets of both theories, importation had a slightly greater influence. This implies that while jail correctional subculture emerges from both the shared experience of life behind bars as well as the characteristics of individuals who are among jail populations, some pre-jail characteristics are particularly relevant.

Practicing variation theory beyond learning study

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore whether and how principles from variation theory can contribute to the planning of teaching and learning beyond learning study.Design/methodology/approachWe study whether and how principles from variation theory contributed to a group of teachers’ planning of teaching and learning about decimal numbers in Grades 4 to 7 working in Subject Didactic Groups – a collaborative arrangement suited to daily teaching. A theoretical thematic analysis approach was used when analyzing eight audio-recorded meetings and written documents.FindingsThe study shows that variation theory principles contributed to the teachers’ planning of teaching and learning. Two themes were identified: the theory contributed to the teachers being able to (1) specify what their students needed to learn and (2) design tasks that they anticipated would afford the opportunity to learn what was identified as being necessary to learn.Originality/valueThe paper demonstrates how variation theory can contribute to teachers’ planning of teaching and learning when used in a collaborative arrangement other than learning study. This leads into a discussion about variation theory being used separately from learning study and the benefits and limitations this other collaborative arrangement can have for gaining knowledge of what is to be learned and taught.

Implementation of Inclusive Education in a Selected School in Malé, Maldives: Teachers’ Experiences

The basis of inclusive education is not only related to equal human rights, but also as a means to improve and achieve quality education for all. In this respect, teachers play an important role in the successful implementation of inclusive education. However, some research has shown that teachers have inadequate knowledge, skills, and training to implement inclusive education. This study aims to gain a deeper understanding of teachers’ experiences in the implementation of inclusive education at a school in Malé, Maldives, including challenges faced. The study was guided by both the principles of constructivist theory and ecological theory to unveil these challenges. To attain the objectives of the study, related literature on international policies and concepts of inclusive education was reviewed in detail. Adopting a qualitative approach, data was also collected through interviews and observations with nine teachers who were selected purposefully. The data gathered from the field was analysed and described in a narrative form. Findings support the importance of teacher training, appropriate teacher-student ratio, proper resources, and an effective monitoring system for the successful implementation of inclusive education.

Quantum entropy couples matter with geometry

Abstract We propose a theory for coupling matter fields with discrete geometry on higher-order networks, i.e. cell complexes. The key idea of the approach is to associate to a higher-order network the quantum entropy of its metric. Specifically we propose an action having two contributions. The first contribution is proportional to the logarithm of the volume associated to the higher-order network by the metric. In the vacuum this contribution determines the entropy of the geometry. The second contribution is the quantum relative entropy between the metric of the higher-order network and the metric induced by the matter and gauge fields. The induced metric is defined in terms of the topological spinors and the discrete Dirac operators. The topological spinors, defined on nodes, edges and higher-dimensional cells, encode for the matter fields. The discrete Dirac operators act on topological spinors, and depend on the metric of the higher-order network as well as on the gauge fields via a discrete version of the minimal substitution. We derive the coupled dynamical equations for the metric, the matter and the gauge fields, providing an information theory principle to obtain the field theory equations in discrete curved space.

FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI PILIHAN KONSUMEN TERHADAP KOPI TOMORO DIBANDINGKAN MEREK LAIN (STUDI PENELITIAN GROUNDED THEORY)

The research aims to capture the voices of Indonesian coffee consumers and develop a nuanced understanding of their preference for Tomoro Coffee. This will contribute valuable knowledge to the existing body of research on consumer behavior in the Indonesian coffee market and provide actionable insights for Tomoro Coffee's future marketing strategies. The approach utilized in this research employs a qualitative method based on grounded theory principles, enabling researchers to develop constructs and theories directly from data collected firsthand, rather than relying on pre-existing theories. Furthermore, the classification of categories into broader themes was carried out to identify the relationships among the compiled categories. Based on the study results, three major themes emerged from interviews with three business actors: Product Characteristics, Brand Image and Marketing, and Price and Value Perception. It can be concluded from the study results that the factors influencing consumer choice of Tomoro Coffee over other brands include the price and the value of the service and products obtained from Tomoro Coffee. Brand image and marketing also influence consumer choice because attractive marketing and promotions draw consumers to purchase Tomoro Coffee. Meanwhile, the variety of the menu, although not dominant, still serves as a reference for consumers to purchase Tomoro Coffee, particularly due to the delicious coffee flavors and affordable prices for consumers. In summary, the research highlights that the key factors driving consumer preference for Tomoro Coffee are competitive pricing, perceived value, effective marketing, and the quality of the product offerings. These insights can help Tomoro Coffee refine its marketing strategies and product development to better meet the needs and preferences of Indonesian coffee consumers. Keywords: Indonesian Coffee Market; Tomoro Coffee; Marketing Strategies; Qualitative Research; Grounded Theory.

Use of Renewable Alcohols in Autocatalytic Production of Aspen Organosolv Lignins.

This study aimed to investigate the intrinsic efficiency of renewable alcohols, applied under autocatalytic conditions, for removing lignin from aspen and hot-water-extracted aspen while substantially preserving the lignin structure so as to facilitate various valorization strategies. Ethylene glycol (EG), propylene glycol (PG), 1,4-butanediol (BDO), ethanol (EtOH), and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (THFA) were evaluated based on their lignin solubilization ability, expressed as the relative energy difference (RED) following the principles of the Hansen solubility theory. The findings indicate that alcohols with a higher lignin solubilization potential lead to increased delignification, almost 90%, and produce a lignin with a higher content of β-O-4 bonds, up to 68% of those found in aspen milled wood lignin, thereby indicating their potential for valorization through depolymerization. However, these alcohols also produce lignin with a higher content of β-β and β-5 bonds, resulting in a higher molecular weight and polydispersity, due to readily occurring homolytic reactions. Hot-water extraction (HWE) conducted prior to alcohol treatment reduced the delignification efficiency and resulted in a lignin with a lower β-O-4 bond content. The lignins produced in these experiments exhibited a superior UV-A absorption capacity compared with synthetic benzophenone, as well as a greater radical quenching ability than synthetic butylated hydroxytoluene, indicating their potential for use in the protection of polymers against degradation.

An Experiential Approach to Training Medical Faculty to Coach: "The Total Experience was Much More Than the Sum of Its Parts".

Coaching in academic medicine may be used for performance improvement as well as personal and professional growth and development. Medical faculty used to advising and mentoring learners may find it challenging to transition to coaching. Limited information is available about educating physicians to take on the role of coaching. We investigated a faculty coach training program at an academic medical center, using qualitative methods to explore how participants' perceptions of the training aligned with the elements of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Intentional Change Theory (ICT) that were taught using the principles of Experiential Learning Theory (ELT). Based on findings that illuminated understanding and practice of coaching, it may be summarized that the application of experiential learning may be an effective approach in helping faculty embrace the principles of SDT and ICT and make the shift to transformational coaching.

Influence of powerlifting on indicators of cardiovascular functional state and the respiratory system of the organization of the collectors

The article discusses the impact of powerlifting classes on indicators of the functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the athletes' body. It has been established that powerlifting classes contribute not only to strengthening the health and increasing the level of physical fitness of the participants, but also form a positive motivation in them for systematic physical exercises. The purpose of the article is to study powerlifting classes on the indicators of the functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the athletes. Scientific methods were used in the research: analysis of literary sources, pedagogical observation, conversation, assessment of the functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the applicants' body. The research concept is based on the theoretical and scientific-methodical levels of the main provisions of pedagogy, theory and methodology of physical education, laws and principles of the educational process in physical culture. The research was conducted at Zhytomyr Ivan Franko State University in 2021–2023, in which students of the second year (34 people) of the physics and mathematics and history faculties took part. During the experiment, the students of the control group studied according to the traditional program of physical education for institutions of higher education, and the students of the experimental group attended powerlifting classes. It has been proven that powerlifting has a positive effect on indicators of the functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of the athletes.

Towards an Urban Planning Scenario Model System—A Tool for Exploring Urban Uncertainty: A Case Study of Diaozhen, China

The ‘Urban Interaction’ project aims to develop an urban planning model system at the scale of towns or small cities consisting of three modules: growth forecast, land-use decision, and evaluation. This paper presents the framework of the model system to identify and discuss the assumptions and theoretical basis of the model system. The model system will be driven by scenario planning theory and sustainable urban development principles. It will export land-use planning based on selected urban development scenarios and urban planning theories. This paper takes Diao Town in Jinan as an example. Applying GIS spatial analysis and hierarchical analysis, this paper determines the suitability of land use and the weights of different influencing factors, combined with the land-use conflict identification model, for land-use decision-making. Finally, the assessment module verifies whether the planning scheme complies with laws and regulations to achieve an active, reactive response to uncertainty. The paper discusses the ‘uncertainty’ of urban planning and proposes a creative, flexible, and timely planning platform that allows planners and other participants to model and visualize their scenarios.

Explaining needs for rehabilitation in patients with bone sarcoma and a megaprosthesis: a qualitative, grounded theory study

Purpose To explain the needs for rehabilitation of patients with bone sarcoma before and after surgical resection and reconstruction with megaprosthesis. Materials and methods We performed a qualitative study following constructivist grounded theory principles. We purposefully recruited rich cases. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed with grounded theory data-analysis. Initial, focused, and theoretical coding were first performed independently by two authors and followed by discussion in consensus meetings with all authors. Ultimately, a conceptual model was created. Results Thirteen participants were interviewed between March and May 2023. Seven theoretical codes were found. The first is the need to achieve a new normal, being able to function with their medical history and megaprosthesis in a new normal life. Two key values patients needed were being understood and being prepared. Four important conditions that patients needed were: optimal conditions for rehabilitation, a trustworthy physical therapist, a clear closure from rehabilitation, and access to expertise in the hospital. The core category was achieving a new normal. Conclusions Patients with bone sarcoma need rehabilitation to achieve a new normal life. With the understanding of needs regarding rehabilitation now gained, the care for patients with bone sarcoma should be better tailored.

Physics-informed transfer learning model for fatigue life prediction of IN718 alloy

To address the challenges posed by inadequate data and data utilization in multiple scenarios of fatigue loading, a Physics-informed Transfer Learning (PITL) model has been developed to predict the fatigue life of IN718 superalloy. Strain-controlled low-cycle fatigue tests were carried out at 400 °C with three distinct strain ratios, which were subsequently segmented for individual transfer learning tests. PITL models with significant engineering value were built by integrating transfer learning methodologies rooted in TrAdaBoost with a physics-based model that hinges on the principles of equivalent strain theory. The findings suggest that PITL models exhibit improved accuracy and greater robustness compared to both transfer learning and physics models.

Analytical tools for evaluating customer experience in the context of marketing management of service companies

The purpose of this study was to theoretically elaborate the model of formation of customer experience of service organisations at the conceptual level and to conduct a study using the developed tools for its evaluation on the example of the hotel business. The main results were based on the principle of holistic personalism and are obtained using the methods of field marketing research, questionnaire survey of respondents, scoring and index method. The data were processed and analysed using statistical correlation analysis, graphical and matrix approaches. The Customer development methodology was used to form a chain of positive customer reactions. The article substantiates a conceptual model of formation of customer experience in service organizations based on the principles of behavioural theory. The article allocates 2 groups of factors on the example of hotels that form the customer experience: explicit and implicit, and includes 6 factor attributes. Three types of customer experience are distinguished: before the moment of consumption of the product – the expected experience (CX ex en.), at the moment of consumption – as the perceived customer experience (CX at the time), and intentions for future consumption of the service product (CX ex post). To assess them, 4 marketing metrics were proposed to evaluate each type of customer experience. To interpret the results, the values of the indicators are scaled. The carried out testing of the proposed methodology on a sample of 14 four-star hotels confirmed the hypotheses of the study. The proposed theoretical concept and evaluation tools can be further used to develop marketing programmes for Customer Experience Management (CXM)

General Characterization of Intelligent Metasurfaces with Graph Coupling Network

AbstractIntelligent metasurfaces, as the next‐generation of metasurfaces, have emerged as a versatile artificial electromagnetic (EM) medium capable of adaptively manipulating wave‐matter interactions, especially in the construction of EM space integration and the analogy of wave‐based neural networks. However, current computational landscape for intelligent metasurfaces relies either on time‐consuming full‐wave numerical simulations with excessive computational complexity or on application‐limited physical models that are difficult to consider the coupling effects. Here, a universal graph neural network (GNN) framework is introduced, incorporating the elusive coupling effects inside metasurfaces, enabling rapid and precise characterization with arbitrary‐large size. This framework exhibits exceptional compatibility with physical models, thereby significantly expanding the realm of potential design scenarios. By harnessing the principles of diffraction theory and near‐to‐far transformation algorithms, highly accurate modeling of the scattered fields emanating from metasurfaces is achieved. Through microwave experiments on intelligent metasurfaces, the efficacy of GNN in real‐world scenarios is effectively demonstrated. The utilization of topological strategies to characterize intelligent metasurfaces marks a major leap toward the next‐generation metasurfaces, promising transformative advancements across various applications.

The Effects of Age and Treatment Intensity on Behavioral Target Mastery With Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Intervention Using Causal Moderation Models.

Introduction Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a therapy that focuses on improving specific behaviors using positive and negative reinforcement through antecedents, behaviors, and consequences, particularly in individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. It uses the principles of learning theory to bring about meaningful and positive changes in behavior. In ABA treatment, intensityrefers to the amount and frequency of therapy an individual receives. This includes weekly hours, session trials, and overall duration. Intensive treatment involves more hours and trials tailored to individual needs and responses. Younger individuals, particularly those with autism, often receive more intensive therapy because early intervention leads to better outcomes. Programs may recommend 25-40 hours per week for young children. As children age, therapy may become less intensive, focusing on specific skills. The study explores how age and treatment intensity affect the mastery of behavioral targets in ABA interventions. Materials and methods This study involved 100 participants (89 children, four adults, and seven instances where the individuals' ages were not recorded due to random data entry errors (MCAR)) who received ABA treatment over three months. The treatments included functional analysis, discrete trials, and massand naturalistic training. Data on the mastery of target behaviors were collected using the Catalystsoftware (New York, New York). The primary outcome was the percentage of mastered behavioral targets, indicating the effectiveness of the ABA treatment. Several predictors were examined, including the participant's age and treatment intensity variables, such as the average number of trials and teaching days to achieve behavioral mastery. The interaction effects between age and these treatment intensity variables were analyzed. The study used descriptive and inferential statistics to explore these interactions, including correlational and multiple regression analyses with causal moderator modeling. Results In Model 1, a baseline multiple regression analysis showed that average teaching days significantly predict the percentage of targets mastered. However, its limited explanatory power suggests other variables also play a role. Model 2 introduced interaction effects using causal models, revealing that age moderates the relationship between treatment variables and behavioral outcomes. This model provided a more nuanced understanding but still had room for improvement. Model 3 further refined the approach, achieving higher R-values and lower standard error. It highlighted age's significant role in modifying the impact of teaching days on mastery. This model's superior performance emphasizes the importance of considering age as a moderating factor in ABA interventions, leading to more effective and personalized behavior therapy. Conclusions This study significantly enhances our understanding of the complex interactions between age and treatment intensity within ABAinterventions. Practitioners and researchers can develop more tailored and effective therapeutic strategies by identifying and leveraging these interactions. This approach optimizes the treatment process and ensures that interventions are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual. Ultimately, this leads to more successful outcomes in behavioral therapy, fostering improved adaptive behaviors and overall development.

Bending analysis of thin plates with variable stiffness resting on elastic foundation via a two-network strategy physics-informed neural network method

A physics-informed neural network method based on a two-network strategy is introduced to address the bending problem of thin plates with variable stiffness resting on an elastic foundation. This problem is governed by a fourth-order partial differential equation (PDE), and the use of a one-network strategy to solve the PDE directly may lead to convergence issues due to singular points. Following the principles of Kirchhoff plate theory, the governing PDE is equivalently transformed into four second-order PDEs. A two-network strategy is employed for solution. We present numerical examples under various load conditions, plate geometries, foundation types, thicknesses, and material properties. The obtained results are validated against finite element method (FEM) solutions and literature. Discussions on alternative network strategies were conducted, and this study reveals that the presented two-network strategy have proven to be effective and robust. It also facilitates easier imposition of boundary conditions.

PRODUÇÃO DE VÍDEOS ESTUDANTIS: UMA ABORDAGEM PEDAGÓGICA ALINHADA ÀS TEORIAS DE MULTILETRAMENTO E NEUROCIÊNCIA

Student video production represents a dynamic and meaningful pedagogical approach, grounded in the principles of neuroscience and learning theories. By providing an engaging and inclusive educational experience, this practice not only fosters students’ cognitive development but also their social, emotional, and digital skills, preparing them for the challenges of the 21st century. Student video production has emerged as an innovative pedagogical approach aligned with the principles of neuroscience and learning theories. This study explored the relevance of this practice, analyzing how it promotes a significant and engaging educational experience for students, stimulating not only cognitive skills but also social and emotional competencies. From the perspective of neuroscience, the importance of visual and emotional stimulation in learning was highlighted. Authors such as Pantano (2009) emphasize the role of emotions in the consolidation and retrieval of information in memory, underscoring how video creation can emotionally engage students, fostering a deeper connection with the content. Additionally, Zorzi (2009) emphasized the relevance of attention in the classroom, directing focus to specific stimuli and facilitating memory formation. Furthermore, video production stimulates essential cognitive skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Authors like Gardner (1995) addressed the theory of multiple intelligences, highlighting the importance of recognizing and developing students’ individual skills, an opportunity provided by audiovisual production. Collaboration and communication were identified as fundamental aspects of student video production. Authors like Pereira and Neves (2014) highlighted how this collaborative activity encourages students to work together, promoting an inclusive environment and stimulating the development of communication and collaboration skills, as pointed out by Santos and Aquino (2011). In the classroom context, video production offers an opportunity for students to explore significant issues and themes authentically. Authors like Fresquet (2015) emphasized how this approach allows students to engage in deep investigations and personal reflections, increasing their motivation and engagement. Moreover, video production promotes a hands-on and experiential approach to learning, supported by neuroscience as an effective teaching strategy. Authors like Cosenza (2011) explained how exposure to practical and emotionally engaging experiences facilitates learning consolidation, an advantage offered by student video creation. Finally, video production contributes to the development of socioemotional skills and competencies for the 21st century. Authors like Aquino and Cavalcante (2017) highlighted how this approach promotes interpersonal skills, teamwork, as well as media and technology competencies, preparing students for real-world challenges.

Infrared and Harsh Light Visible Image Fusion Using an Environmental Light Perception Network.

The complementary combination of emphasizing target objects in infrared images and rich texture details in visible images can effectively enhance the information entropy of fused images, thereby providing substantial assistance for downstream composite high-level vision tasks, such as nighttime vehicle intelligent driving. However, mainstream fusion algorithms lack specific research on the contradiction between the low information entropy and high pixel intensity of visible images under harsh light nighttime road environments. As a result, fusion algorithms that perform well in normal conditions can only produce low information entropy fusion images similar to the information distribution of visible images under harsh light interference. In response to these problems, we designed an image fusion network resilient to harsh light environment interference, incorporating entropy and information theory principles to enhance robustness and information retention. Specifically, an edge feature extraction module was designed to extract key edge features of salient targets to optimize fusion information entropy. Additionally, a harsh light environment aware (HLEA) module was proposed to avoid the decrease in fusion image quality caused by the contradiction between low information entropy and high pixel intensity based on the information distribution characteristics of harsh light visible images. Finally, an edge-guided hierarchical fusion (EGHF) module was designed to achieve robust feature fusion, minimizing irrelevant noise entropy and maximizing useful information entropy. Extensive experiments demonstrate that, compared to other advanced algorithms, the method proposed fusion results contain more useful information and have significant advantages in high-level vision tasks under harsh nighttime lighting conditions.