Element Shape Research Articles

Tourism Marketing Strategies from Price Tags to Brand Value

The tourism industry's dynamic and competitive landscape necessitates innovative marketing strategies that align pricing models with brand identity to attract and retain travelers. This review critically examines the interplay between pricing strategies, branding, and consumer behavior in tourism marketing, highlighting how these interconnected elements shape destination appeal and market competitiveness. It explores diverse pricing approaches—dynamic, cost-based, and value-driven—and their influence on brand equity, consumer perceptions, and purchasing behavior. The integration of traditional and digital marketing methods is analyzed, focusing on the transformative role of experiential marketing, storytelling, and digital platforms in fostering brand loyalty and enhancing market positioning. Key challenges, such as balancing affordability with premium brand perceptions, addressing over-tourism, and adapting to sustainability imperatives, are explored through real-world case studies from successful tourism campaigns. Emerging trends, including AI-driven personalization, eco-conscious branding, and the rising demand for immersive and transformative travel experiences, are also examined to offer actionable insights for the future of tourism marketing. The findings underscore the importance of cohesive marketing strategies integrating pricing, branding, and consumer behavior to drive consumer loyalty, revenue growth, and sustainable impact. This review provides practical recommendations for tourism businesses and policymakers. It identifies future research directions to navigate the evolving pricing, branding, and consumer preferences dynamics in a rapidly changing global tourism landscape.

Повышение эффективности измельчения угольной массы путём изменения геометрии ударной поверхности била

In hammer mills, fuel is ground by the impact of the beaters on the coal pieces entering the mill, as well as by the abrasive action of the beaters on the coal in the space between the beaters and the mill body. A disadvantage of hammer mills is the rapid wear of the beaters, requiring their frequent replacement. It is known that the greater the mass of the material being worn, the longer the beater can work, all other things being equal. The mass of the metal being worn can be increased by increasing the mass of the beater itself or the degree of metal utilization. As practice shows, increasing both has its limits. The optimal mass of the beater for medium-capacity mills with a diameter of up to 1,6 m is 8…10 kg, for high-capacity mills with a rotor diameter of 2…2,5 m, the optimal mass of the beater is 12…14 kg. Increasing the mass of the beater beyond these values does not lead to a significant increase in the service life of the beaters, since this reduces the degree of metal utilization. In addition, replacing beaters weighing more than 14 kg significantly increases the labor intensity of beater replacement operations. The paper investigates the dependence of specific beater wear on the angle of impact with the crushed material and shows the sequence of changes in the shape of the working surface of the beaters. The abrasion of the beaters at different angles of attack of abrasive coal particles is considered, the particle ejection velocity from the working element is calculated, and a mathematical model of the forces arising during the working movement of the beaters is compiled. A methodology for designing the geometric shape of the working element of a tangential hammer mill – a beater – has been developed, which allows for ensuring stable mill efficiency due to uniform wear of the striking part of the beater while maintaining its effective working area.

Intervening with nanozymes in aging-related diseases: Strategies for restoring mitochondrial function.

The decline in mitochondrial function has been identified as one of the central pathological mechanisms underlying a variety of aging-related diseases. Nanozymes are nanomaterials with intrinsic enzyme-like properties and are important alternatives to natural enzymes. As emerging biocatalysts, nanozymes exhibit significant potential in mimicking the activity of natural enzymes, enhancing mitochondrial function, and offering novel therapeutic strategies for aging-related conditions. This review provides an overview of various approaches to modulate the catalytic activity of nanozymes, considering factors such as particle size, shape, surface modifications, and constituent elements. It then examines the role of nanozymes in mitigating aging-related diseases by preserving mitochondrial health, with a particular focus on their ability to regulate three critical aspects: mitochondrial energy metabolism, quality control, and antioxidant capacity. By improving mitochondrial energy generation, supporting mitochondrial integrity, and eliminating excess reactive oxygen species (ROS), nanozymes offer new therapeutic possibilities for neurodegenerative diseases, bone-related disorders, and diabetes. Finally, this article discusses the major challenges faced in this field, including issues such as the scalability, biocompatibility, and targeting ability of nanozymes. It also emphasizes that future research should focus on enhancing clinical translation to ensure that nanozymes can play an effective role in practical therapeutic applications.

Are social media marketing activities reaping benefits for brands? The moderating role of education

PurposeIncreasingly, brands are using social media to attract consumers. However, it is not clear how social media activities influence consumers. To address this, the study examines the role of social media marketing (SMM) activities on consumer-based brand equity and continued usage intentions. The study also examines the moderating role of education.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilized consumer-based brand equity (CBBE) and stimulus organism response (SOR) theories to develop a conceptual model. SMM activities were used as stimulus, whereas continued usage intentions were used as response. Also, the study used elements of CBBE as organisms. A survey-based questionnaire approach was used to collect data from 326 consumers. The collected data were analysed using structural equation modelling.FindingsResults indicate that SMM activities are associated with elements of CBBE. Also, elements of CBBE shape continued usage intentions of consumers. The results of the multigroup analysis suggest the differences among the three groups with respect to their education level. The study’s findings enable managers to understand CBBE and continued usage behaviour of their customers and provide guidelines to manage their SMM activities.Originality/valueThe study findings are first to empirically test the effects of SMM activities on CBBE and continued usage behaviour. The results show that the stimulus strongly shapes CBBE and their continued intention to purchase brands. The findings contribute to the literature on SMM activities, CBBE and offer novel managerial implications.

Study on the potential of UAV scanning for measuring complex technical infrastructure

Laser scanning surveys conducted on complex technical infrastructure with a horizontal structure often encounter the issue of mutual obscuration of elements. This problem can be addressed by utilizing UAV surveys, provided that the necessary accuracy is maintained. Photogrammetric drones are susceptible to disturbances such as shading, lighting, and reflections, which can impact survey accuracy. Scanning drones offer more stable accuracy in such scenarios. The research aimed to determine if a scanning drone could generate point clouds of technical infrastructure with geometry accuracy comparable to terrestrial scanning. Previous studies on scanning drones have primarily focused on absolute measurement accuracy, typically within a few centimeters. However, for determining the geometric shape of installation elements in a local coordinate system, internal measurement consistency is crucial. The research demonstrated that by integrating point clouds from multiple drone flight paths effectively, consistency within a few to several millimeters can be achieved. A comparison with terrestrial laser scanning results indicated the ability to detect deformations at a level of approximately 5–10 mm.

Chromosome-scale genome assembly reveals how repeat elements shape non-coding RNA landscapes active during newt limb regeneration.

Newts have large genomes harboring many repeat elements. How these elements shape the genome and relate to newts' unique regeneration ability remains unknown. We present here the chromosome-scale assembly of the 20.3 Gb genome of the Iberian ribbed newt, Pleurodeles waltl, with a hitherto unprecedented contiguity and completeness among giant genomes. Utilizing this assembly, we demonstrate conserved synteny as well as genetic rearrangements, such as in the major histocompatibility complex locus. We provide evidence suggesting that intronic repeat elements drive newt-specific circular RNA (circRNA) biogenesis and show their regeneration-specific expression. We also present a comprehensive in-depth annotation and chromosomal mapping of microRNAs, highlighting genomic expansion profiles as well as a distinct regulatory pattern in the regenerating limb. These data reveal links between repeat elements, non-coding RNAs, and adult regeneration and provide key resources for addressing developmental, regenerative, and evolutionary principles.

Guest experience and unique accommodation features in Göreme, Cappadocia: An Airbnb review analysis

This study investigates the influence of unique accommodation features on guest experiences in the Göreme town of Cappadocia, focusing on Airbnb reviews. By analyzing 5,677 reviews from 122 Airbnb listings, the research identifies key features such as cave dwellings, panoramic views, and hot air balloon experiences, which significantly contribute to guest satisfaction. A mixed-method approach has been used, combining frequency analysis and sentiment analysis, to evaluate how these unique elements shape guests' perceptions and overall satisfaction. The findings highlight the critical role of both aesthetic qualities and service standards, emphasizing the need for hosts to balance unique architectural features with essential hospitality services like cleanliness and maintenance. This research provides insights for Airbnb hosts and destination marketers to enhance the appeal of Cappadocia as a premier destination for immersive, authentic tourism experiences. The study also offers strategic recommendations for improving marketing efforts and destination management by leveraging Cappadocia's cultural and natural heritage to create memorable guest experiences. As a suggestion for future research, it may be useful to extend the findings of this study to a wider geographical area and examine different tourist profiles.

Investigating how individual entrepreneurial orientation impacts entrepreneurial intention: The mediating role of positivity and moderating affect of institutional support among university students

ABSTRACT As the global economy evolves, fostering student entrepreneurship has become a pivotal objective for educational institutions and policy makers, particularly in emerging economies like India. Owing to which, this study unravels the multifaceted factors influencing the entrepreneurial intentions (EI) of students by illuminating the role of positivity (POS) as a mediator and institutional support (IS) as a moderator within the relationships. Through employing a validated questionnaire, data were collected from 303 student respondents specializing in management and engineering across India. The hypothesized model was rigorously tested using the partial least squares–structural equation modeling (PLS–SEM) approach. Results reveal a positive correlation between individual entrepreneurial orientation (Ind.EO) and EI, with POS as a complete mediator in this relationship. Furthermore, IS significantly enhances the impact of POS on EI, intensifying the connection when support is abundant and diminishing it when scarce. This research presents a holistic perspective on the boundary conditions and mechanisms by which personality traits and contextual elements shape students’ EI within the Indian milieu. The pioneering aspect of this study lies in the introduction of POS as a mediating factor and IS as a moderating factor in the Ind.EO–EI and POS–EI relationships, a novel exploration not previously undertaken.

A FINITE ELEMENT MODEL FOR CALCULATING A NON-THIN ORTHOTROPIC CYLINDRICAL SHELL, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE INDUCED INHOMOGENEITY

The formulation of a model for the deformation and strength calculation of an open cylindrical shell of circular shape rigidly pinched along contour planes formed by generators is considered. The ratios of the geometric parameters of the shell differ significantly from thin-walled structures, to which traditional technical hypotheses could be applied. The formulation of a mathematical model defining the stress-strain states of a thick-walled structure was carried out within the framework of a nonlinear three-dimensional theory. The peculiarity of the developed model was that orthotropic composites were adopted as the structural materials of the shell, the deformation and strength properties of which manifest themselves in different ways in accordance with the types of stress states being realized. The manifestation of such mechanical properties of materials is interpreted as induced heterogeneity, which significantly complicates the methodology for calculating spatial structures. Due to the specified features of the research object, isoparametric finite elements of a three-dimensional tetrahedral shape, the nodes of which had three degrees of freedom, were used to develop a computational model. In order to adequately account for the stiffness properties of orthotropic composites exhibiting induced heterogeneity, the basis of the determining relationships for them was the deformation potential formulated in the normalized stress tensor space associated with the main axes of orthotropy of materials. Due to the nonlinearity of the problem under consideration, the process of solving it was based on the method of variable elasticity parameters. As a result of the implementation of the computational model, comprehensive information was obtained on the stresses, deformations and displacements of the shell, the main of which are presented in the text of the article with the addition of their analysis.

The Luna Analog Facility testbeds (ESA, EAC): contemporary characterization work of highland (lunar) and mare (EAC-1) lunar regolith simulants

The Luna Analog Facility, a joint ESA-DLR endeavour, consists of three components and spans an area of 1,000 m2, providing testbeds of simulated lunar environments. The main sections within the facility are a large area filled with lunar mare regolith simulant resembling mare regions and a smaller, individual “Dust Chamber”. The latter replicates highland conditions and contains approximately 20 tons of material, specifically simulating the fine-particle lunar regolith portion up to 250 µm. The Dust Chamber serves as a platform for testing various technologies, such as mechanical tools, robotic operations, in-situ resource utilization activities, and astronaut attire, as well as different procedures including rover and astronaut tasks. This work represents the geotechnical, geochemical and mineralogical characterization of the Lumina Sustainable Materials Ltd. 2023 batch highland simulants, from which Lunar250 is intended for use in the Luna Dust Chamber. Additionally, this work provides new results for ESA’s mare simulant, EAC-1. We provide data on particle size distribution, particle shape, abrasivity, density, water content, major and trace element geochemistry and modal mineralogy. As the simulants in the Luna Facility will be constantly overseen, this work organized by the Vulcan Facility (ESA) intends to support the monitoring of the geotechnical property variations of the simulants over time. Ultimately, we analysed several properties with different tools to emphasize how different methods and instruments affect the variability and reliability of the results.

From propensity to action: exploring gender and cognitive influences on Informal Investment Intentions

This study explores the factors influencing Informal Investment Intentions among potential investors, focusing on Risk Propensity and Subjective Norms. It examines the mediating effect of Entrepreneurial Alertness and the moderating role of gender, aiming to understand how these elements shape investment decisions among management students in India. A survey-based cross-sectional research design is followed to evaluate a 340 cross-sectional sample. Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) database, SEM, and the PROCESS macro have been utilized to understand the synchronization between the variables. CFA, RMSEA, GFI, and TLI tests are employed to check the fitness and validity of the model, and CMB, together with PFA, have been applied for variance testing. The study found that Subjective Norms significantly influence Informal Investment Intentions, mediated by Entrepreneurial Alertness. Gender exuberates the relationship between Risk Propensity and Informal Investment Intentions through Self-Efficacy, with stronger effects observed among male students. Findings offer insights for policymakers and educators to design interventions fostering Informal Investment Intentions by enhancing Entrepreneurial Alertness and addressing gender-specific differences, particularly among management students. This study adds to the literature by examining gender's moderating role in the relationship between Risk Propensity and Informal Investment Intentions, providing a nuanced understanding of informal investment behavior in an Indian context.

A binary-tree subdivision method for evaluation of singular integrals with discontinuous kernel in 3D BEM

PurposeA binary-tree subdivision method (BTSM) for numerical evaluation of weakly singular integrals with discontinuous kernel in the three-dimensional (3D) boundary element method (BEM) is presented in this paper.Design/methodology/approachIn this method, the singular boundary element is split into two sub-elements and subdivided recursively until the termination criterion is met and the subdivision is stopped. Then, the source point is surrounded by one or more spherical cavities determined by the discontinuous kernel function. The sub-elements located in spherical cavities will be eliminated, and the regular triangular or rectangle elements are employed to fill the spherical cavities.FindingsWith the proposed method, the obtained sub-elements are automatically refined as they approach the source point, and they are “good” in shape and size for standard Gaussian quadrature. Thus, the proposed method can be used to evaluate singular integrals owing discontinuous kernel function accurately for cases of different element shapes and various source point locations.Originality/valueNumerical examples show that the BTSM is suitable for planar and curved elements of arbitrary regular or irregular shape at various source point locations, and the results have much better accuracy and robustness than conventional subdivision method (CSM) when the kernel function is discontinuous.

Развитие подходов к расчету параметров напряженно-деформированного состояния массива пород по результатам измерений деформаций на торце скважины

To ensure safe conditions for mining of mineral deposits, information on the stress-strain state of the rock masses is necessary. There are a few methods to obtain this type of information. One of them, which has found wide application at mining enterprises, consists in using the characteristic of elastic restoration of the shape and dimensions of the rock mass element when its connection with the main mass is forcedly broken (the doorstopper method). For its correct realization, a mathematical tool is required that allows the transition from stresses at the borehole bottom to stresses in the rock mass without the use of empirical coefficients. The paper presents the results of developing a mathematical tool to calculate the stresses acting inside the rock mass and determined based on the doorstopper method. The possibility of using empirical coefficients (the concentration coefficient and the axial stress influence coefficient) obtained during long-term in-situ and laboratory studies for the transition from stresses at the borehole bottom (flat stress state) to stresses inside the rock mass (volumetric stress state) is shown. An approach for calculating the components of the stress tensor in the bottomhole plane of three mutually perpendicular boreholes through the deformation values of a four-sensor socket is proposed. The approach for transition from the directions and magnitudes of stresses on the measurement plane to the direction and magnitude of the main stresses inside the rock mass is given.

Shape measurement using a multicore optical fiber sensor with asymmetric dual cores

Abstract Shape measurement using multicore optical fiber sensors has attracted more attention in many fields due to the good consistency of the fiber cores. Three symmetrically arranged cores in a multicore fiber are usually used to reconstruct shapes by calculating the bending vectors, which will not be achieved when one of the cores is damaged or occupied in actual application. A shape measurement method using a multicore optical fiber sensor with asymmetric dual cores is proposed in this paper. Based on the analysis of the principle of shape reconstruction and the geometric relationship of the asymmetric dual cores in the multicore fiber sensor, the bending vector is decomposed. The mathematical expressions for the bending curvature and orientation of the asymmetric dual cores are derived. The two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) shape reconstruction results in both finite element modeling simulation and shape measurement experiments based on optical frequency domain reflectometry have shown that the proposed method using a multicore fiber sensor with asymmetric dual cores is able to achieve shape measurement; its performance is comparable and even equivalent to the traditional method that uses three symmetrically arranged cores. In the experiment, the maximum relative errors of 2D and 3D reconstructed shapes are 2.653% and 5.139%, respectively. The proposed method, which only needs asymmetric dual cores in the multicore optical fiber sensor for shape reconstruction, will be conducive to solving the limitations of multicore optical fiber sensors in shape measurement applications.

Radio-frequency ion thruster with magnetic shielding of the discharge chamber walls

We presented the results of a computational study on optimizing the shape of the main elements of a radio-frequency ion thruster – the discharge chamber and the ion-extraction system grids. The possibility of improving the integral characteristics of thrusters and ion sources due to the use of an additional magnetostatic field in the RF discharge region was considered. The performed series of calculations made it possible to determine the optimal geometry of the discharge chamber and of the RIT ion-extraction system grids, as well as the configuration of the additional magnetic field, at which the best values of the integral characteristics were achieved.

ОЛЕКСАНДР ФІНКЕЛЬ І СТАНОВЛЕННЯ ПЕРЕКЛАДОЗНАВСТВА В УКРАЇНІ

The paper is a tribute to Oleksandr Finkel’s signifi cant role in establishing Ukrainian translation studies as an independent academic discipline. Finkel’s pioneering work introduced a methodological approach to analysing linguistic aspects of translation, marking him as one of the early adopters of this approach. As a leading scholar based in Kharkiv, he produced the research in Ukraine which had a ripple eff ect throughout the Soviet Union and beyond. Finkel’s extensive exploration of translation as a scholarly pursuit aimed at creating a distinct academic fi eld within Ukrainian academia utilizing a burgeoning linguostylistic methodology. Drawing primarily from Finkel’s published works and manuscripts, the paper organizes his perspectives around the core areas of translation studies: theory, criticism, and pedagogy. His application of linguostylistics delves deep into fundamental translation phenomena such as equivalence, text types, translation multiplicity, the translator’s role, intertextuality, and textual dynamics. In the framework of George Steiner’s classifi cation of translation studies periods, Finkel’s ideas align most closely with the third period, characterized by a linguistic approach to translation theory. Early on, he interconnects translation with stylistics and linguistics, later evolving into linguostylistics. Key inquiries in his work include the nature of translation, the smallest unit of translation, the linguistic structure of text elements like words and sentences, and how linguistic elements shape historical cultural realities. Key words: translation theory, equivalence, text types, translation quality assessment, translation didactics.

Fourth-Order Accurate Strain-Parameterized Shape Representation of Beam Elements for Modeling Continuum Robots and Robotic Manipulation of Slender Objects

Abstract Soft rods and tubular elements are the main building blocks of continuum robots. Kinetostatic models along with a geometrically exact description of the kinematics on SE(3) are now an established foundation for simulation and control. A key aspect is the reconstruction of the actual shape of a soft slender element. This involves numerically solving nonlinear differential equations on SE(3), which is problematic, in particular for real-time applications. To circumvent this, shape functions are used to approximate the deformation. A widely used approach is based on the constant curvature assumption. This has limited accuracy, however. In this article, an interpolation is presented that leads to a fourth-order accurate approximation of the deformation of a Cosserat beam. This serves as a strain-parameterized shape function. Either the strain at the two ends of the beam or the strain and its derivative at one end are specified. The presented interpolation is relevant also for shape control when handling flexible slender objects with robotic manipulators.

Challenges And Solutions In Implementing Reading Policies In The Foundation Phase: A Multiple Case Study From The Lichtenburg Circuit, North West Province

This article aims to examine the policies guiding reading instruction and investigate how these policies are implemented in the FP to gain a deeper understanding of teachers’ experiences in this area. Implementing reading policies effectively in the FP is crucial for fostering early literacy skills, which form the foundation for lifelong learning. However, teachers often encounter various challenges that impact the successful application of these policies. This article explores the complexities associated with implementing reading policies within the FP, specifically focusing on the Lichtenburg Circuit in the North West Province. The Lichtenburg Circuit, a unique educational setting within the North West Province, provides a valuable multiple case study for examining these challenges and identifying effective solutions. Utilizing a qualitative case study approach, the research focused on the perspectives of Subject Advisors, Principals, HoDs, and FP teachers in three primary schools within the Lichtenburg circuit. Thirteen participants were purposively selected, and data were collected through document analysis, observations, and interviews. Thematic analysis revealed that the CAPS is the primary policy used for reading instruction, yet it lacks explicit directives on teaching reading, leading to challenges in implementation and application by teachers. By investigating the experiences of English Home Language this article aims to uncover the specific difficulties teachers face and assess the support mechanisms available. The findings will offer insights into improving policy implementation and enhancing literacy outcomes for young learners. The objective of this article is to identify and analyze the key factors that influence teachers’ implementation of reading policies in the FP. This article aims to understand how various contextual, professional, and institutional elements shape teachers’ approach to applying reading policies in their classrooms. By examining these factors, the article seeks to provide insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by teachers in translating policy into effective practice, ultimately contributing to the development of more supportive and practical strategies for improving reading outcomes in the FP. The purpose of this article is to investigate and evaluate the challenges and solutions in implementing reading policies, using the Lichtenburg Circuit in the North West Province as a multiple case study. The article also seeks to uncover the specific challenges that teachers encounter in implementing these policies and to analyze how these obstacles impact the effectiveness of reading instruction. The article aims to provide insights and recommendations for improving the implementation of reading policies to better support FP teachers.

Static, free vibration, and buckling analysis of functionally graded plates using the dual mesh control domain method

In this paper, the Dual Mesh Control Domain Method (DMCDM) put forward by Reddy is applied to solve linear static, free vibration, and buckling problems of functionally graded plates modeled using the First-Order Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT). The material properties are assumed to vary continuously through the thickness of the plate according to a power-law. Formulations are presented for linear triangular (3-noded) and bilinear quadrilateral (4-noded) primal elements of arbitrary shape. The influence of the power-law exponents, length to thickness ratio, boundary conditions, and plate skewness on the numerical solution is systematically analyzed. Additionally, the numerical solutions using the DMCDM are compared against those from the Finite Element Method (FEM) to demonstrate the robustness of the DMCDM as a strong competitor to well-established numerical techniques such as the FEM.

The mixed displacement method to avoid shear locking in problems in elasticity

AbstractThe mixed displacement (MD) method was initially developed to mitigate geometrical locking effects in beams, plates, and shells with the intention of having intrinsically locking‐free characteristics while using equal‐order interpolation for all degrees of freedom. In other words, it is an unlocking scheme that works independent of the element shape, polynomial order, and discretization scheme. It includes additional degrees of freedom that adhere to a carefully designed differential relation that can be interpreted as a kinematic law, incorporated in a mixed sense. Certain constraints are to be enforced on these additional degrees of freedom to obtain a well‐posed system of equations. In this work, the MD method is extended for problems in solid mechanics. We present the underlying variational formulation, followed by its application to 2D solid elements. Additionally, we showcase an idea to enforce the additional constraints in a general sense. Various numerical examples, within the framework of the finite element method and isogeometric analysis, are outlined to demonstrate the performance of the MD method in the geometrically linear and geometrically nonlinear cases.