Theoretical Underpinnings Research Articles

How AI competencies can make B2B marketing smarter: strategies to boost customer lifetime value

There has been a rapid rise in utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in many different sectors in the last several years. However, business-to-business (B2B) marketing is one of the more notable examples. The initial assessments emphasize the significant advantages of AI in B2B marketing, including its knack for yielding unique understandings into consumer behaviors, recognizing crucial market trends, and improving operational efficiency. However, there seems to be a limited grasp of the optimal way to develop artificial intelligence competencies (AIC) for B2B marketing and how these attributes inevitably affect customer lifetime value (CLV). Equipped with AIC and B2B marketing literary fiction, this research unveils a theoretical research framework for evaluating the repercussions of AIC on B2B marketing capabilities and, subsequently, on CLV. We analyze the suggested research model using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), leveraging 367 survey replies from Pakistani companies. The outcomes show a significant relationship that describe the ability to leverage AIC to enhance CLV, and also signifies the mediating role of B2B marketing capabilities to enhance CLV by integrating AIC in internet marketing. The findings of this study provide practical implications for marketers to monetize their marketing skills to enhance CLV and researchers with theoretical underpinnings of integration of AIC into marketing.

Innovative Design and Practical Reflections on Teaching Ideological and Political Aspects of ‘Pharmacoeconomics’ in the Digital Era

Objective: This study examines the innovative design and practical application of ideological and political (IP) teaching in the Pharmaceutical Economics course in a digitally evolving educational landscape. It seeks to effectively integrate IP education into the curriculum, enhance the synergy between disciplinary and IP education, and foster students’ holistic skills and social responsibility.Material and Methods: The research began with a literature review to identify the unique characteristics of the “Pharmaceutical Economics” course and the theoretical underpinnings of IP teaching in a digital context. It then employed empirical analysis, using specific teaching cases to compare the outcomes and challenges of innovative versus traditional teaching methods. Finally, feedback from students and teachers was gathered through interviews and surveys to provide deep insights into the practical implementation of these methods.Results: Findings indicated that leveraging online platforms and digital resources enhances the diversity and engagement of “Pharmaceutical Economics” teaching. Integrating IP education into professional instruction not only helps students link theory with practice, enhancing their overall qualities and skills, but also improves the relevance and effectiveness of IP education. Nonetheless, challenges persist; including the selection and use of digital resources, the impact of blended learning, and the fairness and accuracy of evaluations.Conclusion: Digital teaching opens new avenues for incorporating IP education in “Pharmaceutical Economics”. Careful strategic and methodological choices are required to ensure the pedagogical rigor and effectiveness of IP education. Future research may explore the transformation of teacher roles in digital environments, the empowerment of student agencies, and the seamless integration of online and offline teaching modalities.

System frequency response model and droop coefficient setting considering renewable energy participation in frequency regulation

The highly uncertain and uncontrollable power output of renewable energy sources (RES), when integrated into power systems at high penetration levels, reduces system inertia and introduces uncertain changes in system structure, parameters, and frequency response characteristics. This renders traditional frequency regulation analysis methods and frequency response models inapplicable, lacking a generalized model to describe renewable energy’s participation in frequency regulation. Thus, this paper proposes a method where RES utilize suitable means to reduce load, thereby contributing to frequency regulation. Furthermore, employing Virtual Synchronous Machine (VSM) technology, these renewable energy units emulate the inertia and droop characteristics of Synchronous Generators (SG), enabling their equivalent modeling alongside traditional generators within a single-machine aggregate model. An SFR (System Frequency Response) model integrating renewable energy’s frequency regulation has been established. This model enables the analysis of the relationships between the system’s equivalent droop coefficient and the frequency nadir, nadir time, and quasi-steady-state point. Furthermore, the required equivalent droop coefficients are proposed for various sending-end system capacities and operating conditions. Finally, the model’s validity and accuracy are confirmed through a modified WSCC 4-machine 10-bus system, offering theoretical underpinnings for stable system operation and optimized operational planning.

Factor validation of the International Trauma Questionnaire in a sample of trauma-exposed Colombian adults in the MI-VIDA study.

The ICD-11 introduced a new diagnosis of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) defined by disturbances in self-organisation in addition to traditional post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. The International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) is the established measure of this construct and has been validated for use in a variety of populations and languages; however, evidence for the measure's use in Latin America is limited. This study sought to validate the factor structure of the Latin American Spanish version of the ITQ in a trauma-exposed sample in Colombia. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess a range of factor models validated previously, including first- and second-order factor models. Assessment of fit indices demonstrated that a correlated six-factor model comprised of re-experiencing, avoidance, sense of threat, affect dysregulation, negative self-concept and disturbed relationships provided the best fit for these data. Factor loadings for this model were found to be high and statistically significant. Results concur with prior research validating the use of alternative language versions of the ITQ internationally, and with the theoretical underpinnings of the CPTSD diagnostic category. The ITQ is therefore a valid measure of CPTSD in this Latin American sample. Further validation research is needed in clinical populations in this region.

FOMO driving brand nostalgia and brand personality for building trust in a food enthusiast: a serial multiple mediation model

Purpose During the pandemic, restaurants closed due to restrictions and economic instabilities. This research paper aims to investigate the motivational effect of nostalgia induced by fear of missing out (FOMO) upon the e-WOM about the dining place. Did FOMO evoke nostalgic memories and emotional symptoms with the dining place? It further inspected if the diners trust the restaurant for these nostalgic memories and their emotional connect. Design/methodology/approach A survey-based questionnaire was applied to collect data. A two-step method for analyzing the measurement and structural model was applied by using the principles of SEM to analyze the associations among key constructs in the proposed model. Findings Psychological constructs like nostalgia and personality drove the diners’ behavior of trust and e-WOM. The findings also confirmed the mediation effect of brand nostalgia, brand personality and brand trust between FOMO and e-WOM. Further, the model has elucidated the elaboration likelihood model (ELM) and usage gratification theories. Originality/value This paper has contributed to the branding literature by examining how brand constructs have mediated the path between FOMO and e-WOM. Multiple serial mediation effect among the key variables has been a novel contribution of this study. The ELM and the usage gratification theory have been integrated to extend the theoretical underpinnings in the hospitality sector.

A Conceptual Model of Dysphagia in Older Adults

A conceptual model was developed to create a basis for understanding the risk factors and outcomes associated with dysphagia and to hypothesize the nature of the relationship between certain factors. The conceptual model was developed by two academic speech-language pathologists with ≥10 years research and clinical experience in swallowing and dysphagia in older adults. A comprehensive review of English-language literature was conducted, and relevant, evidence-informed factors associated with dysphagia in older adults were identified. The synthesis of clinical expertise and theoretical underpinnings complemented the literature review, incorporating the socio-ecological model. Discussion and brainstorming of the identified factors and their potential and/or proven relationships with dysphagia were conducted. All the factors identified were initially organized using a thematic approach, then were further structured into overarching categories, guided by the inherent relationships between the factors. The arrangement of the conceptual model framework was undertaken once these categories had been optimized, and consensus had been achieved among the authors with support from the literature. Factors were identified to increase the risk of dysphagia, be an outcome of dysphagia, or both. The conceptual model illustrates the complex multifactorial relationship between dysphagia and individual, relationship, community, and societal factors. The proposed conceptual model improves our understanding of the risk factors and outcomes associated with dysphagia in older adults. Future work should focus on empirically testing the relationships among the factors presented, so the model can ultimately be used by members of the dysphagia community to target modifiable risk factors for dysphagia, as well as identify effective treatments that optimize overall patient well-being.

Searching for modernization

This paper considers the theoretical underpinnings of rural out-migration and economic stagnation, specific to rural Nova Scotia, Canada, and argues that rural Nova Scotia has, in part, misapplied the tenets of modernization. It situates out-migration, and economic stagnation, amongst Modernization Theory and considers how economic rejuvenation, vis a vis entrepreneurship education, can, potentially, revivify the topophilic bonds between person and (rural) community. Structurally, this paper argues three points: first, that rural Nova Scotia is enduring a misapplication of modernization, resulting in a lingering traditionalism that pushes people out and dampens economic growth. Second, that rural Nova Scotia would benefit from a structural shift in its economic model and third, that community economic development through entrepreneurship stands a reasonable chance of reserving the social and economic misfortune now ubiquitous in the areas outside of Nova Scotia’s capital region.

From Theory to Practice: Implementing Meta-Learning in 6G Wireless Infrastructure

The vision of the sixth generation of communication systems, commonly known as 6G, entails a connected world that provides ubiquitous connectivity and fosters the digital transformation of society. As the number of devices, services, and users continues to grow, intelligent solutions are expected to facilitate this transformation. This paper considers meta-learning as a pivotal paradigm for 6G systems, detailing its principles, algorithms, and theoretical underpinnings. The methodology involves integrating meta-learning with three potential 6G technologies: RF-based communication systems, optical communication systems, and molecular communication systems. The findings reveal the distinct characteristics of these technologies and demonstrate the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating meta-learning algorithms. Practical implications highlight how meta-learning can enhance the efficiency and adaptability of 6G systems, addressing the growing demand for intelligent and seamless communication networks.

Evaluating Scientific Tourism of Geoheritage: An Empirical Study of Fangshan Global Geopark in Beijing

Scientific tourism (ScT) of geoheritage serves as a crucial approach to ensuring the protection of natural heritage. Establishing a comprehensive evaluation system to guide the exploration of ScT in geoheritage is essential. This study adheres to principles of comprehensiveness by integrating both qualitative and quantitative methods, ensuring operability, authenticity, and scientific rigor. It employs the analytic hierarchy process, expert consultation method, and fuzzy mathematical evaluation method to construct an evaluation index system. This system encompasses four dimensions: ScT of geoheritage resources, practices and construction related to ScT, auxiliary conditions for exploration, and ecological environment construction. The study uses Fangshan Global Geopark in Beijing as a case study for empirical analysis. The findings indicate that the constructed evaluation system effectively captures key factors influencing the exploration of the ScT of geoheritage. Fangshan Global Geopark demonstrates commendable performance in terms of its ScT of geoheritage resources as well as practices and construction. But it has limitations regarding auxiliary conditions for exploration and ecological environment construction. This study provides theoretical underpinnings and policy recommendations for the exploration of the ScT of geoheritage.

Sociocultural Competence and Critical Consciousness: Stories of a Vietnamese Dual-Language Program in South Texas

ABSTRACT Drawing upon the theoretical underpinnings of sociocultural competence and critical consciousness as two key components in the guiding principles for dual-language and bilingual education (DLBE), this paper documents the purposeful curricular design and implementation of cultural aspects of a Vietnamese Dual-Language Program in South Texas. Findings reveal a robust multilayered integration of the sociocultural competence pillar at four levels: community, school, classroom, and transnational. These four levels altogether have had a positive impact on current students’ and alumni’s social well-being and attitudes toward bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturalism. Further findings also point to the stakeholders’ critically conscious actions such as the strategic incorporation of sociocultural competence into the program’s curriculum and efforts of renegotiating power, reaffirming identities, and historicizing schools and programs. Those insights might have significant implications for future research and educational programs that foreground DLBE, especially among less-commonly-taught-language groups.

Measuring the Ecoefficiency of Tourism in Typical Tourist Cities and Analyzing the Influencing Factors—Anhui Huangshan City as an Example

To protect the environment, promote sustainable tourism, and enhance the quality and efficiency of the tourism industry, accounting for and identifying the ecological efficiency of tourism is crucial. In this study, we constructed a scientific measurement system for assessing the ecological efficiency of tourism in Huangshan City from 2011 to 2022 using a Super-SBM (slack-based measure) model and a Tobit regression model. Our findings revealed the following: (1) The overall trend in the total efficiency in Huangshan City fluctuated considerably during the period under study but demonstrated an overall positive trend of development. Scale efficiency mostly showed consistent annual improvement, while pure technical efficiency remained relatively stable. (2) Economic, social, environmental, and human-resource- and transportation-related factors all exerted significant positive influences on the ecological efficiency of tourism in Huangshan City. Based on these results, in aiming to enhance the ecological efficiency of tourism in Huangshan City, comprehensively considering multiple factors, such as the economy, society, the environment, human resources, and transportation, is recommended. Attention should be paid to balancing industrial expansion with technological innovation while simultaneously investing in the development of education and human resources. Emphasis should also be placed on protecting and improving the environment alongside efforts to improve capabilities in technological innovation and the level of management. The research findings presented in this article offer a valuable theoretical underpinning, as well as practical guidance for Huangshan City and other representative tourist destinations on how they can enhance the efficiency of their tourism ecosystems, thereby facilitating high-quality and sustainable development within the tourism industry.

Exemplar-based Instruction in China’s ESL English Writing: From Theory to Practice

This article explores an exemplar-based teaching mode which can be used in English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) writing classrooms for Chinese undergraduates. This project adopts an exemplar-based textbook published by Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press to prepare freshmen’s writing. Theoretical underpinnings of the use of exemplars, namely scaffolding theory, will be given. The discussion finishes by suggestion of some tasks of this teaching approach for ESL writing instructors who are interested in using exemplars to cultivate students’ writing. This topic of e-education drawn from Contemporary College English Advanced Writing, which is currently used in most of China’s universities, has been chosen to illustrate ways in which this might be achieved. Five tasks are presented in order to highlight the complexity of writing for ESL learners and to illustrate ways in which it can be made more accessible. The possible benefit can be seen in teacher’s and students’ applying this writing practice not just for the current topic but also for other writing topics in ESL writing classrooms. Furthermore, this work sheds some lights on curriculum, pedagogy, and teacher education in various writing contexts.

Realization of Hydrogel Electrolytes with High Thermoelectric Properties: Utilization of the Hofmeister Effect.

Ionic thermoelectric materials, renowned for their high Seebeck coefficients, are gaining prominence for their potential in harvesting low-grade waste heat. However, the theoretical underpinnings for enhancing the performance of these materials remain underexplored. In this study, the Hoffmeister effect was leveraged to augment the thermoelectric properties of hydrogel-based ionic thermoelectric materials. A series of PAAm-x Zn(CF3SO3)2, PAAm-x ZnSO4, and PAAm-x Zn(ClO4)2 hydrogels were synthesized, using polyacrylamide (PAAm) as the matrix and three distinct zinc salts with varying anion volumes to impart the Hoffmeister effect. Exceptionally, the most cost-effective ZnSO4 yielded the highest ionic Seebeck coefficient among the hydrogels, with PAAm-1 ZnSO4 achieving a remarkable value of -3.72 mV K-1. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, we conducted an innovative analysis correlating the Seebeck coefficient with the zinc ion transfer number. Additionally, the hydrogel materials demonstrated outstanding mechanical properties, including high elongation at break (>1400% at its peak), exceptional resilience (virtually no hysteresis loops), and robust fatigue resistance (overlapping cyclic tensile curves). This work not only advances the understanding of ionic thermoelectric materials but also showcases the potential of hydrogels for practical waste heat recovery applications.

The European Commission’s Challenge to Consent or Pay: Demystifying the Digital Markets Act?

The European Union’s (EU’s) Digital Markets Act (DMA) was hailed as a new era of digital regulation following a decade of debates on the flexibility of traditional competition law. Article 5(2) DMA requires gatekeepers to offer users a choice to opt-out of the data exchanges across a gatekeeper’s services. Half a year after becoming applicable, its fitness for purpose and theoretical underpinnings are in the spotlight as the European Commission (EC) investigates Meta’s consent or pay solution on the assumption that such a model is not compliant. This paper considers whether this assumption is supported by an interpretation of Article 5(2) DMA and assesses the risks posed by the EC’s position to the integrity of the DMA and its aim to revolutionize competition law.

Zero-Shot Neural Architecture Search: Challenges, Solutions, and Opportunities.

Recently, zero-shot (or training-free) Neural Architecture Search (NAS) approaches have been proposed to liberate NAS from the expensive training process. The key idea behind zero-shot NAS approaches is to design proxies that can predict the accuracy of some given networks without training the network parameters. The proxies proposed so far are usually inspired by recent progress in theoretical understanding of deep learning and have shown great potential on several datasets and NAS benchmarks. This paper aims to comprehensively review and compare the state-of-the-art (SOTA) zero-shot NAS approaches, with an emphasis on their hardware awareness. To this end, we first review the mainstream zero-shot proxies and discuss their theoretical underpinnings. We then compare these zero-shot proxies through large-scale experiments and demonstrate their effectiveness in both hardware-aware and hardware-oblivious NAS scenarios. Finally, we point out several promising ideas to design better proxies.

Curriculum Development and Evaluation at the William & Mary Center for Gifted Education

At the Center for Gifted Education at William & Mary, content-based curriculum development and dissemination of materials for teaching gifted and high-ability learners has always been central to the mission. For over three decades, curriculum materials have been developed using Joyce VanTassel-Baska’s Integrated Curriculum Model (ICM) and field-tested in classrooms around the country. With each revision of current materials and during the development of new materials, every effort is made to hold true to the theoretical underpinnings of the ICM. This article offers a glimpse at our ongoing commitment to the core of this well-researched model.

Integrating artificial intelligence-based technologies ‘safely’ in academic libraries: An overview through a scoping review

ABSTRACT Background. Academic libraries are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI), but there is limited understanding of how they can be “safely” integrated into their business model. Objective. This scoping review addressed the question on how much research has been conducted on ethical issues and perceived risks associated with the safe integration of AI technologies in academic libraries. Design. Between December 2023 and March 2024, online databases and a search engine were used to identify sources of evidence published before 2024 that focused on ethical concerns and risks to the integration of AI-based technologies. Eligibility criteria and a charting form guided data synthesis. Results. Nigeria provided the bulk of the studies. Many studies used the quantitative methodology at the expense of qualitative and mixed methods research approaches. The use of theoretical underpinnings was limited to 18% of the studies. Ethical issues with an impact on the planet were not evident as matters that were covered related to trust and the society. The perceived risk of losing jobs was widely covered at the expense of other perceived risks. Conclusion. Research on the safe use of AI technologies in academic libraries is still in its infancy. More research is necessary to understand the phenomenon.

Study on substrates purification effect and microbial community structure of vertical subsurface flow constructed wetland under siphon effect

To explore the pollutants removal effects of siphon composite vertical flow constructed wetlands (Sc-VSsFCW), alongside the characteristics of microbial communities and the varying trends of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) content across substrate layers. Two kinds of distinct Sc-VSsFCW, with loess sphere and clay ceramic grain as substrate materials, respectively, were established. During the experiment, water quality of influent and effluent were detected to investigate system pollutant removal efficiency, routine index detection, microbial diversity analysis and EPS content determination, and substrates were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results indicated that both substrate systems exhibited good pollutant removal effect, with the average removal rate of 90 % for ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N), and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal rate within the range of 60–70 %. The long-term re‑oxygenation process inherent in the system successfully augmented the dissolved oxygen (DO) content within the wastewater, and facilitate relative high abundance of Nakamurella, Bacillus, and Nitrospira in these two substrate systems, which enhanced organic matter degradation and nitrification processes. Moreover, the hydraulic conductivity and EPS content in both substrate systems displayed a declining trend, suggesting that the system's unique hydraulic conditions strategies effectively mitigated EPS accumulation and diminished the likelihood of biological clogging. Consequently, the system's distinctive re‑oxygenation and siphon drainage methods boast advantages over traditional vertical flow constructed wetlands in terms of enhancing dissolved oxygen levels and mitigating the risk of biological clogging. This study contributes theoretical underpinnings for the application of constructed wetlands in wastewater treatment and clogging mitigation.

Role of AI in reducing global Plastics use: Predictive analytics for global sustainability

The growth, from a global perspective, in plastic waste sees its necessary promise in Artificial Intelligence. The driving force of Machine Learning, Computer Vision, and Predictive Analytics, shapes each style of waste management and effective collection routes to recycling. In this paper, therefore, the discussion will be on how AI can ensure a reduction in plastic waste, focusing on developing countries such as Nigeria. The theoretical underpinning of this research is on AI adoption, the Technology Acceptance Model, a few real-world case studies in AI for waste reduction, and many challenges that need to be focused on due to issues of data sparsity, infrastructure limitations, and ethics. Using these challenges for unlocking the full potential of AI in the direction of a more sustainable future, with minimal plastic waste at the forefront of environmental well-being, could be better negotiated. As the global community faces the pressing need to tackle plastic pollution, especially in areas with inadequate waste management systems and severe environmental challenges AI technologies present groundbreaking solutions to improve waste management methods, eliminate environmental harm, and foster sustainable growth. A crucial factor influencing the future of AI-driven plastic waste reduction in developing countries is the ongoing progress and implementation of AI technologies.

From theory to practice: A case study and ethnographic exploration of translanguaging strategies in second language academic writing

This paper examines the intersection of case study and ethnographic research methodologies within the field of Applied Linguistics, focusing specifically on the investigation of translanguaging practices in academic writing. The paper explores the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of these qualitative research methods, highlighting their key characteristics, benefits, and challenges. By reviewing exemplary studies, the paper aims to demonstrate the strengths and complexities of these methodologies in understanding the diverse language practices of multilingual learners in educational settings. It concludes by reflecting on the potential of these research approaches to inform the development of inclusive and effective teaching practices for diverse student populations in a globalized world.