Search Results (497)

This study investigates the impact of theory of mind, anticipated emotions before actual behavior, and consequential emotions following the behavior on sharing and allocation behavior in 4–6-year-old children. In Experiment 1, 95 children were randomly assigned to three conditions (external emotion expectancy condition, internal emotion expectancy condition, and control condition) to explore the role of cognition and emotions in children’s sharing and allocation behaviors. Experiment 2 employed a dictator game to further validate the influence of theory of mind and consequential emotions on behavior. The findings indicated that both anticipated and consequential emotions influence sharing behavior, but neither serves as a key predictor of allocation behavior. Theory of mind influences children’s sharing behavior and is related to the fairness of allocation. Children with higher levels of theory of mind tend to rate consequential emotions more positively, while those with lower ratings of consequential emotions are more likely to reconsider sharing after reflection. Notably, theory of mind and emotional factors demonstrate distinct motivational effects on children’s prosocial sharing and resource allocation, with negative emotions exhibiting a more pronounced impact on decision-making processes. Full article

Background. The left and right temporoparietal junctions (TPJs) are two brain areas involved in several brain networks, largely studied for their diverse roles, from attentional orientation to theory of mind and, recently, predictive processing. In predictive processing, one crucial concept is prior precision, that is, the reliability of the predictions of incoming stimuli. This has been linked with modulations of alpha power as measured with electrophysiological techniques, but TPJs have seldom been studied in this framework. Methods. The present article investigates, using magnetoencephalography, whether spontaneous oscillations in pre-stimulus alpha power in the left and right TPJs can modulate brain responses during a linguistic task that requires predictive processing in literal and non-literal sentences. Results. Overall, results show that pre-stimulus alpha power in the rTPJ was associated with post-stimulus responses only in the left superior temporal gyrus, while lTPJ pre-stimulus alpha power was associated with post-stimulus activity in Broca’s area, left middle temporal gyrus, and left superior temporal gyrus. Conclusions. We conclude that both the right and left TPJs have a role in linguistic prediction, involving a network of core language regions, with differences across brain areas and linguistic conditions that can be parsimoniously explained in the context of predictive processing. Full article

UNESCO presently offers a universal regime and policy environment for the identification and management of natural and cultural heritages. However, heritage does not merely signify cultural diversity; it can also facilitate greater equity and equality. The research problem addressed in this article is that in Ghana, the national government perceives and treats the small-scale fishing (SSF) sector as a masculine space and endeavour, ignoring the gendered aspects of this environment, of SSF practice and ocean care. In the article, it is hypothesized that if the SSF sector is treated as a socially differentiated space, and if the concern of ocean care is prioritized as a key imperative in Ghanaian ocean management, it is likely that a more inclusive and sustainable ocean management process and SSF sector will emerge in Ghana. Mindful of the socially differentiated nature of the SSF sector in Ghana, the goal of the research presented in this article is to use mixed qualitative research methods (participant-observation and semi-structured interviews) to investigate gendered knowledge forms and gendered practices in ocean care in the central region of Ghana. A key finding of the research is that gendered ritual practices, including canoe building and use in Ghana, are critical to long-term, sustainable, and inclusive ocean management in the country. Recognition of the gendered dimensions of ocean management in Ghana may also result in more inclusive ocean governance policies and nature management policies in Ghana in general. The conclusion of the article is that ocean governance in Ghana should consider and mainstream a gendered perspective of the SSF sector, to advance transformative, sustainable, and inclusive ocean care. The article draws on theories of intersectionality, African indigenous feminist thought, and critical heritage studies to analyse the data gathered, to support the discussion, and to propose the way forward for the national government. Full article

The experience of inner light and ecstasy is widely accepted as a universal mystical experience, regardless of cultural or religious context. While one can read first-hand accounts in the historical record, the direct experience of light remains elusive for most people. This study analyzes a series of dream-based experiences of light provided by a single subject. In our analysis of 19 dreams, we pursue a process-oriented, relational analysis based on co-creative dream theory, which views the dream as an interactive experience in real time rather than a fixed product of the unconscious mind. By analyzing dreams as relational events, in which the metaphoric content emerges alongside the dreamer’s responses, we see how the dream ego influences the outcome through feelings, choices, and reactions. Through this analysis, we identify an array of subjective antecedents to the experience of light and provide a potential avenue of access to the core mystical experience. Full article

This study addresses the growing concern of social network (SN) addiction, with a focus on TikTok and Instagram. Guided by the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT), we explored the motivations (escapism and social interaction), attitudes (critical thinking), and states (flow and sense of belonging) that influence SN use. Our objective was to investigate whether critical thinking acts as a protective factor against SN addiction. A sample of 332 university students completed questionnaires assessing motivations, attitudes, states, and SN addiction. Critical thinking was measured using the Critical Thinking Attitude Scale (CTAS), and critical thinking skills were assessed through the Critical Reasoning Assessment (CRA). Statistical analyses revealed significant associations between motivations, critical thinking, states, and SN addiction. Specifically, critical thinking (CTAS scores) demonstrated a negative correlation with SN addiction (r = −0.34, p < 0.01), indicating that higher critical thinking is associated with lower SN addiction. Regression analysis further indicated that escapism (β = 0.45, p < 0.01) and social interaction (β = 0.31, p < 0.05) positively predicted SN addiction, while critical thinking negatively predicted SN addiction (β = −0.28, p < 0.01). Additionally, states of flow and sense of belonging showed significant positive correlations with SN addiction (r = 0.42, p < 0.01 and r = 0.37, p < 0.01, respectively). These findings highlight the potential of critical thinking as a safeguard against SN addiction. This study offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of SN use, with implications for promoting healthier digital engagement. Understanding the factors influencing SN addiction and the roles of motivations, dispositions, and states can inform interventions aimed at fostering responsible and mindful online behaviors. Full article

Water quality problems due to stagnation during periods of low or no demand in buildings, such as the growth of Legionella bacteria, may arise in potable cold and hot water systems. Premise plumbing installations should therefore be designed and constructed to prevent bacterial growth, and then operated to provide satisfactory protection against Legionella. In several building types, over 50% of the total energy usage is connected to hot water production. In large part, this is because hot water systems are maintained at 60 to 70 °C to deter Legionella growth, which may be at odds with sustainability goals. With the latter in mind, recent studies have combined both hydraulics and temperature modelling, obtaining satisfactory prediction results when tested by making digital twins. In the present study, a tool was developed which allows users to see the detailed results of premise plumbing system modelling through a web-based interactive dashboard. The hydraulics are modelled using WNTR, water demands are generated with pySIMDEUM, and temperature is modelled using heat transfer theory for conduction and convection. Some examples are presented to illustrate the extent of the tool, as well as visualising indicators relevant to Legionella growth potential, such as water age and temperature range. This tool can support building managers and designers with improving serviceability, minimising environmental footprint, and providing safe water in new and existing premise plumbing systems. Full article

Significant efforts are currently being made to improve the quality of life of the older adult population. These efforts focus on aspects such as health, social interaction, and mental health. One of the approaches that has shown positive results in several studies is the application of game-based systems. These systems are not only used for entertainment, but also as tools for learning and promoting positive feelings. They are a means to overcome loneliness and isolation, as well as to improve health and provide support in daily life. However, it is important to note that, while these experiences are gradually being introduced to the older adult population, they are often designed with a younger audience in mind who are assumed to be more technologically proficient. This supposition can make older adults initially feel intimidated when interacting with this type of technology, which limits their ability to fully utilize and enjoy these technological solutions. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to apply a game experience and fun evaluation process oriented toward the older adult population based on the playability theory of human–computer interaction in virtual reality game experiences. This is expected to offer highly rewarding and pleasurable experiences, which will improve engagement with the older population and promote active and healthy aging. Full article

People with aphantasia exhibit the inability to voluntarily generate or form mental imagery in their minds. Since the term “aphantasia” was proposed to describe this, it has gained increasing attention from psychiatrists, neuroscientists, and clinicians. Previous studies have mainly focused on the definition, prevalence, and measurement of aphantasia, its impacts on individuals’ cognitive and emotional processing, and theoretical frameworks synthesizing existing findings, which have contributed greatly to our understanding of aphantasia. However, there are still some debates regarding the conclusions derived from existing research and the theories that were constructed from various sources of evidence. Building upon existing endeavors, this systematic review emphasizes that future research is much needed to refine the definition and diagnosis of aphantasia, strengthen empirical investigations at behavioral and neural levels, and, more importantly, develop or update theories. These multiple lines of efforts could lead to a deeper understanding of aphantasia and further guide researchers in future research directions. Full article

Objectives: The main purpose of the current study was to examine the effects of social information processing, self-regulation, and metacognition variables on ToM using path analysis. Methods: For this purpose, path analysis was conducted for the model established according to the relationships between the variables. Theory of mind task battery (ToMTB), Metacognitive Knowledge Interview (McKI), Schultz Test of Emotion Processing—Preliminary Version (STEP-P), and self-regulation scale were administered to 310 children aged 3–5 years. Results: The results show that social information processing (except STEP-P.P.B, one of the sub-dimensions of the STEP-P scale) has a significant effect on ToM through metacognition and self-regulation. Conclusions: In this context, it can be said that social information processing, metacognition, and self-regulation are effective in the development of ToM. Full article

In the contemporary epistemological debate, it is possible to identify approaches whereby rational and sensory human faculties are not the sole essential dimensions in the knowing process. With its intuitional and empathic nature, love emerges as a specific way through which scientists may also know the world. In the 20th century, the Russian–American sociologist Pitirim A. Sorokin (1889–1968) was one of the scholars who highlighted the epistemological power of love. In his integral epistemology, the relevance of Altruistic Creative Love within the cognitive process is underlined. Love appears as an energy—linked to a specific intuitional human dimension called supraconscious—through which to know reality, which could integrate the empirical–sensory and rational–mindful dimensions. Following this line of thought, this article presents the thought of this scholar, outlining his general theory of knowledge and, in particular, highlighting the function of Altruistic Creative Love in the scientific method and analysing an original scientific dissemination activity embedded in the Sorokinian perspective that makes use of the arts, which can open new “eyes” and stimulate individual and social transformation. Full article

The integration of robots into social environments necessitates their ability to interpret human intentions and anticipate potential outcomes accurately. This capability is particularly crucial for social robots designed for human care, as they may encounter situations that pose significant risks to individuals, such as undetected obstacles in their path. These hazards must be identified and mitigated promptly to ensure human safety. This paper delves into the artificial theory of mind (ATM) approach to inferring and interpreting human intentions within human–robot interaction. We propose a novel algorithm that detects potentially hazardous situations for humans and selects appropriate robotic actions to eliminate these dangers in real time. Our methodology employs a simulation-based approach to ATM, incorporating a “like-me” policy to assign intentions and actions to human subjects. This strategy enables the robot to detect risks and act with a high success rate, even under time-constrained circumstances. The algorithm was seamlessly integrated into an existing robotics cognitive architecture, enhancing its social interaction and risk mitigation capabilities. To evaluate the robustness, precision, and real-time responsiveness of our implementation, we conducted a series of three experiments: (i) A fully simulated scenario to assess the algorithm’s performance in a controlled environment; (ii) A human-in-the-loop hybrid configuration to test the system’s adaptability to real-time human input; and (iii) A real-world scenario to validate the algorithm’s effectiveness in practical applications. These experiments provided comprehensive insights into the algorithm’s performance across various conditions, demonstrating its potential for improving the safety and efficacy of social robots in human care settings. Our findings contribute to the growing research on social robotics and artificial intelligence, offering a promising approach to enhancing human–robot interaction in potentially hazardous environments. Future work may explore the scalability of this algorithm to more complex scenarios and its integration with other advanced robotic systems. Full article

Technology is increasingly shaping human life, particularly in healthcare, where recent advancements have revolutionized patient care. Despite these advances, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) definition of health remains rooted in traditional notions, raising questions about its adequacy in light of technological progress. This paper explores the conceptual and practical limitations of the current definition and argues for its revision to encompass the role of technology in health. This paper examines the evolving landscape of healthcare technology and its philosophical implications, drawing on theories such as the Extended Health Hypothesis and the Extended Mind Hypothesis. It claims that health extends beyond traditional biological boundaries and includes the influence of technology on well-being. This paper advocates for a re-examination of the WHO definition of health to reflect the integral role of technology in modern healthcare. Recognizing technology as part of health necessitates a broader conceptual framework that acknowledges the interconnectedness of biology, technology, and human well-being. Given technology’s transformative role in healthcare, this paper argues for a revaluation of the WHO’s definition of health to encapsulate the evolving relationship between technology and human well-being. At the end, we propose a new definition recognizing that health is a dynamic state of physical, mental, social, and technological well-being, wherein individuals can achieve optimal quality of life through the harmonious integration of biological, psychological, and technological factors. This state encompasses not only the absence of disease but also the effective utilization of advanced technologies. Full article

The representation of intelligence is achieved by patterns of connections among neurons in brains and machines. Brains grow continuously, such that their patterns of connections develop through activity-dependent specification, with the continuing ontogenesis of individual experience. The theory of active inference proposes that the developmental organization of sentient systems reflects general processes of informatic self-evidencing, through the minimization of free energy. We interpret this theory to imply that the mind may be described in information terms that are not dependent on a specific physical substrate. At a certain level of complexity, self-evidencing of living (self-organizing) information systems becomes hierarchical and reentrant, such that effective consciousness emerges as the consequence of a good regulator. We propose that these principles imply that an adequate reconstruction of the computational dynamics of an individual human brain/mind is possible with sufficient neuromorphic computational emulation. Full article

The analysis of the impact of the star polymer topology on depletion interaction potentials, depletion forces, and monomer density profiles is carried out analytically using field theory methods and techniques as well as molecular dynamic simulations. The dimensionless depletion interaction potentials and the dimensionless depletion forces for a dilute solution of ideal star polymers with three and five legs (arms) in a Θ-solvent confined in a slit between two parallel walls with repulsive surfaces and for the case where one of the surfaces is repulsive and the other inert are obtained. Furthermore, the dimensionless layer monomer density profiles for ideal star polymers with an odd number (f˜ = 3, 5) of arms immersed in a dilute solution of big colloidal particles with different adsorbing or repelling properties in respect of polymers are calculated, bearing in mind the Derjaguin approximation. Molecular dynamic simulations of a dilute solution of star-shaped polymers in a good solvent with N = 901 (3 × 300 + 1 -star polymer with three arms) and 1501 (5 × 300 + 1 -star polymer with five arms) beads accordingly confined in a slit with different boundary conditions are performed, and the results of the monomer density profiles for the above-mentioned cases are obtained. The numerical calculation of the radius of gyration for star polymers with f˜ = 3, 5 arms and the ratio of the perpendicular to parallel components of the radius of gyration with respect to the wall orientation for the above-mentioned cases is performed. The obtained analytical and numerical results for star polymers with an odd number (f˜ = 3, 5) of arms are compared with our previous results for linear polymers in confined geometries. The acquired results show that a dilute solution of star polymer chains can be applied in the production of new functional materials, because the behavior of these solutions is strictly correlated with the topology of polymers and also with the nature and geometry of confined surfaces. The above-mentioned properties can find extensive practical application in materials engineering, as well as in biotechnology and medicine for drug and gene transmission. Full article

Wang Yangming’s emphasis on the concept of oneness establishes a significant connection between his philosophy and mysticism. This comparative study draws upon his mystical encounters and conceptual framework. Although “all things form one body” appears to be a typical formula of extrovertive mysticism, his doctrine is more inclined to be classified as a type of introvertive mysticism because of the special definition of “thing” and the deep involvement of heart–mind. The realm of oneness is based on the mode of a heart–mind pervading the entirety of the universe and all things, with the core concept of liangzhi as both pure consciousness and the base of the world. The adoption of a mystical philosophical perspective highlights Wang’s theory of oneness as a spiritual philosophy, transcending general ethical claims, thus enriching our understanding of Wang’s philosophy of mind. Full article