Evaluation of a personalized digital library based on cognitive styles: Adaptivity vs. adaptability

Personalization can be addressed by adaptability and adaptivity, which have different advantages and disadvantages. This study investigates how digital library users react to these two techniques. More specifically, we develop a personalized digital library to suit the needs of different cognitive styles based on the findings of our previous work (Frias-Martinez, et al., in press). The personalized digital library includes two versions: adaptive version and adaptable version. The results showed that users not only performed better in the adaptive version, but also they perceived more positively to the adaptive version. In addition, cognitive styles have great effects on users’ responses to adaptability and adaptivity. These results provide guidance for designers to select suitable techniques to develop personalized digital libraries

Mental Health Service provision in remote areas in Greece: the experience of the Mobile Mental Health Units in Cyclades islands

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar se e como a atuação das unidades móveis de saúde mental nas Cíclades, na Grécia teve um efeito sobre a saúde mental da população local. As ilhas Cíclades, embora mundialmente populares como destino de verão, tinham um sistema quase inexistente de serviços de saúde mental. Devido à falta de tais serviços, 2 unidades móveis foram fundadas há 10 anos, a fim de cobrir esta lacuna. Oferecemos uma breve descrição da estrutura e dos mecanismos de funcionamento das unidades móveis. Em seguida, apresentamos a situação atual e sua evolução ao longo do tempo. Os dados foram processados em uma única base de dados dos usuários das Unidades Móveis de Saúde Mental, em um período de 10 anos. Foram utilizados métodos quantitativos e análise descritiva para um conjunto de variáveis e indicadores, para ajudar a chegar a uma conclusão sobre como medir o impacto da prestação de serviço, bem como uma breve discussão em grupo focal envolvendo os principais atores na comunidade. A amostra do presente estudo é a população de 6.884 adultos, que foram encaminhados para as unidades psiquiátricas móveis de EPAPSY do Oeste e Nordeste de Cíclades entre os anos de 2003 e 2014. O presente estudo centrou-se na identificação dos efeitos positivos da prestação de serviços das unidades para a população local, bem como das barreiras e limitações durante a experiência de 10 anos nas Cíclades. Adicionalmente, abordamos alguns obstáculos atuais (como a crise socioeconômica e de que forma tem afetado a prestação de serviços e o estado de saúde mental dos usuários). Identificamos as principais razões para a variação e a mudança no número de usuários por ano durante a década, o número e fonte dos encaminhamentos, os pedidos iniciais dos pacientes aos serviços e como eles evoluíram ao longo do tempo. Concluiu-se que os serviços oferecidos pelas unidades móveis tiveram impacto positivo na redução da lacuna de tratamento e aumento da sensibilização para as questões de saúde mental. Identificamos, ainda, alguns indicadores que poderiam apontar para a redução do estigma nas comunidades. Sugerimos alguns passos fundamentais para a melhoria dos serviços e, eventualmente, sua avaliação, a fim de estudar o impacto geral sobre a saúde mental da população das ilhas.ABSTRACT:The aim of this study was to identify if and how the operation of the mental health mobile units in the Cyclades in Greece has had an effect on the mental health of the local population. The Cyclades islands, although very popular as a summer destination globally, had an almost inexistent system of mental health services. Due to the complete lack of such services, 2 mobile units were founded 10 years ago in order to cover for this lack. We give a short description of the structure and working mechanisms of the mobile units. We then present the current situation and how it has evolved across time. We processed the data into a unique database of the users of the Mobile Mental Health Units in a period of 10 years. We used quantitative methods and descriptive analysis to a set of variables and indicators to help us reach a conclusion of how to measure the impact of the provision of service, along with a short focus groups discussion involving the key players in the community. The sample of the present study is the clinical population of 6,884 adults, who were referred to the mobile psychiatric units of EPAPSY in West and North-East Cyclades between the years 2003 and 2014. The current study has focused on the identification of positive effects of the service provision of the units for the local population, as well as the barriers and limitations during the 10 year experience in the Cyclades. In addition, we tackled some present obstacles (such as the socioeconomic crisis and how these have affected service provision and users’ mental health status. we identified the main reasons behind the fluctuation and change in the number of users per year over the decade, the number and source of referrals, the initial requests of the patients for services and how they evolved across time. We concluded that the services offered by the Mobile units had a positive impact in the reducing treatment gap and increasing awareness for mental health issues. We also identified a few indicators that could point towards a reduction of stigma in the communities. We suggested some key steps forward for the improvement of services and, eventually, their evaluation, in order to examine the overall impact on the mental health of the population of the islands

Interactions In Space For Archaeological Models

In this article we examine a variety of quantitative models for describing archaeological networks, with particular emphasis on the maritime networks of the Aegean Middle Bronze Age. In particular, we discriminate between those gravitational networks that are most likely (maximum entropy) and most efficient (best cost/benefit outcomes).Comment: 21 pages, 6 figures, 2 tables. Contribution to special issue of Advances in Complex Systems from the conference `Cultural Evolution in Spatially Structured Populations', UCL, London, September 2010. To appear in Advances in Complex System

Landscape approaches for ecosystem management in Mediterranean Islands

This book presents a series of essays, drawing on the twm concepts of ecosystem management and landscape approaches, to elucidate and reflect on the present situation and future evolution of Mediterranean islands. This publication brings together contributions from Mediterranean individuals, non-Mediterranean individuals, islanders and non-islanders there is, after all, no geographical limit on who and what we can learn from. The essays presented here each contribute a specific perspective on the future evolution of Mediterranean islands. This book presents a series of essays, drawing on the twin concepts of ecosystem management and landscape approaches, to elucidate and reflect on the present situation and future evolution of Mediterranean islands. This publication brings together contributions from Mediterranean individuals, non-Mediterranean individuals, islanders and non-islanders; there is, after all, no geographical limit on who and what we can learn from. The essays presented here each contribute a specific perspective on the future evolution of Mediterranean islands. Following this introductory chapter, the first section of the book focuses on the contributions that can be made by the discipline of landscape ecology. loannis Vogiatzakis and Geoffrey Griffiths first explain the concepts and relevance of landscape ecology, also presenting and discussing a range of applied tools that can facilitate landscape planning in Mediterranean islands. Louis F. Cassar then reviews the 'offshoot' discipline of restoration ecology, making a strong case for offsetting the environmental damage inflicted on natural ecosystems over millennia of human occupation, with constructive efforts to effectively restore and/or rehabilitate ecosystems. The two following chapters bring the socio-economic dimension into the discussion. Godfrey Baldacchino first presents two contrasting paradigms for the development of island territories, reviewing the dual influences of ecological and economic factors, and exploring ways in which the two can be brought together in successful development strategies. Gordon Cordina and Nadia Farrugia then address the demographic dimension of development, presenting a model to explain the economic costs of high population densities on islands. The third block of chapters expands on the relevance of social and cultural dynamics to the management of Mediterranean Islands. Isil Cakcï, Nur Belkayali and Ilkden Tazebay explain the evolution of the concept of a 'cultural landscape', focusing on the challenges of managing change in landscapes with strong heritage values. The chapter concludes with a case study on the Turkish island of Gökçeada (lmbros), which is experiencing major challenges in balancing the conservation of a cultural landscape on the one hand, and the management of inevitable change, on the other. Elisabeth Conrad then discusses the role of social capital in managing the landscape resources of Mediterranean islands, reviewing the potential for this intangible social fabric to facilitate or impede the sustainable evolution of island territories. The fourth section includes four chapters, each of which addresses a different aspect relevant to policy development and implementation in Mediterranean islands. Salvino Busuttil presents an essay outlining the political influences on the management of coastal landscapes, the latter so relevant to Mediterranean island territories. The essay derives from the author's professional experience in various policy-related institutions for environmental management within the Mediterranean region. Maggie Roe then reflects on issues of landscape sustainability, focusing on the neglected aspect of intelligence. She discusses ways in which landscape research, knowledge and understanding can feed directly into frameworks for 'sustainable' landscape planning. In the subsequent chapter, Adrian Phillips takes from his substantial experience with international landscape policy, reviewing the gradual emergence of international and national landscape 'tools', to draw out lessons for application in Mediterranean islands. In the final chapter of this section, Riccardo Priore and Damiano Galla present a comprehensive discussion of the European Landscape Convention, the first international instrument to focus exclusively on landscape. The authors explain the innovative character of this convention, and discuss its potential implementation in Mediterranean islands. The publication concludes with a series of case studies, highlighting specific constraints, experiences and opportunities in different Mediterranean islands. Theano Terkenli explores the landscapes of tourism in Mediterranean islands - perhaps no other industry has played such a fundamental role in shaping the evolution of Mediterranean landscapes in recent years. The author reviews the theoretical relationship between landscape and tourism across Mediterranean islands, before focusing on the specific case of the Greek Cycladic islands. In the following chapter, Alex Camilleri, Isabella Colombini and Lorenzo Chelazzi present an in-depth review of the context and challenges being faced on a number of minor Mediterranean islands, namely those of the Tuscan archipelago (Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Montecristo, Pianosa, Gorgona and Giannutri), and Comino, the latter forming part of the Maltese archipelago. The comparison between these various islands enables an appreciation of both commonalities across these islands, as well as considerations that are specific to the context of each in dividual island. JeremyBoissevain then adopts an anthropological lens to review the cautionary tale of landscape change in Malta, exploring underlying causes of landscape destruction and limited civil engagement. In the subsequent chapter, Jala Makhzoumi outlines the richness of Mediterranean islands' rural landscapes, focusing on olive landscapes in Cyprus. Her research demonstrates the economic and ecological robustness of various olive cultivation practices, and whilst warning of several threats to such sustainable regimes, she outlines strategies for reconfiguring our approach to rural heritage, in order to integrate such assets into sustainable development strategies. Finally, Stephen Morse concludes the section with an evaluation of sustainable development indicators, and the contribution that these can make towards enhancing the management of Mediterranean island territories. He illustrates his arguments with reference to the two island states of Malta and Cyprus. To conclude, in the final chapter of this publication, we review key insights emerging from the various chapters, and summarize considerations for ecosystem management and sustainable development in Mediterranean Islands. We truly hope that this publication makes some contribution towards safeguarding the "magic' of Mediterranean islands, whilst embracing their dynamic characteristics.Published under the patronage of UNESCO and with the support of the Maltese National Commission for UNESCOpeer-reviewe

The Iron Age Cyclades and Crete: Different Approaches to Connectivity Speculatively Related to Food Security

This paper offers a case study of some of the Cycladic Islands examining connectivity and insularity between 1000 – 500 BCE. In the Cyclades, evidence of interaction with areas outside of the archipelago and of intra-island connectivity is observable on many of the islands. It will be argued that environmental factors, predominantly low rainfall, may be at least part of the explanation for the adoption of a strategy of reaching out beyond an island’s shores. Cycladic islanders plausibly sought to develop strong networks of affiliation with trading partners from other regions perhaps to serve as buffer zones to rely on during periods of poor food productivity. Compared to Cycladic material, the archaeological evidence of Cretan items found outside Crete is not as robust.  This paper speculatively suggests that Cretans, living in a more fertile environment, did not feel the same need as Cycladic islanders to establish networks of affiliation for purposes of food security.This paper offers a case study of some of the Cycladic Islands examining connectivity and insularity between 1000 – 500 BCE. In the Cyclades, evidence of interaction with areas outside of the archipelago and of intra-island connectivity is observable on many of the islands. It will be argued that environmental factors, predominantly low rainfall, may be at least part of the explanation for the adoption of a strategy of reaching out beyond an island’s shores. Cycladic islanders plausibly sought to develop strong networks of affiliation with trading partners from other regions perhaps to serve as buffer zones to rely on during periods of poor food productivity. Compared to Cycladic material, the archaeological evidence of Cretan items found outside Crete is not as robust.  This paper speculatively suggests that Cretans, living in a more fertile environment, did not feel the same need as Cycladic islanders to establish networks of affiliation for purposes of food security.This paper offers a case study of some of the Cycladic Islands examining connectivity and insularity between 1000 – 500 BCE. In the Cyclades, evidence of interaction with areas outside of the archipelago and of intra-island connectivity is observable on many of the islands. It will be argued that environmental factors, predominantly low rainfall, may be at least part of the explanation for the adoption of a strategy of reaching out beyond an island’s shores. Cycladic islanders plausibly sought to develop strong networks of affiliation with trading partners from other regions perhaps to serve as buffer zones to rely on during periods of poor food productivity. Compared to Cycladic material, the archaeological evidence of Cretan items found outside Crete is not as robust.  This paper speculatively suggests that Cretans, living in a more fertile environment, did not feel the same need as Cycladic islanders to establish networks of affiliation for purposes of food security

New mobility strategies for the development of tourism in Sicily

Tourism and Transport is a well established and inseparable pair. An areas can increase the tourism in potentially own economy. This requires suitable accommodation and adequate transportation system. A positive synergy effects are induced to increase of the site. Transport is an important growth area for tourism and as a result. A better functioning of transport facilitates access to sites, decreases the cost of transport and increases tourist flows. In Sicily there are a wealth of artistic, archaeological and natural sites, generating a tourist flows during the year. Despite this, the network of connections and services is precarious. Residents and visitors are inaccessible to certain geographical areas. Often airport nodes are isolated for tourist as residents and connections to main destinations are by road transport, because rail is not competitive. Congestion of the main arteries increase negative externalities related to road transport and for tourists increases the negative perception of the journey. In this paper we propose guidelines for sustainable tourism, by analyzing the supply of mobility. The case study examines the reality of the stretch of waterfront in Western Sicily (Palermo to Trapani), introducing a faster shipping service to facilitate accessibility to tourist sites along the coast, with a network of connections that includes airports nodes

Effects of Feral Cats on the Evolution of Antipredator Behaviors in the Aegean Wall Lizard (Pordarcis erhardii)

Exotic predators such as feral cats (Felis catus), have been the driving force behind the extinction of many endemic species of island mammals, birds and reptiles. Island endemics appear to be exceptionally susceptible to invasive predators because of small population size and frequent lack of anti-predator defenses. The goal of this study was to determine the impacts of feral cats on the island populations of Aegean Wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii, Lacertidae) in relationship to the expression of anti-predator behaviors. I estimated lizard population densities in areas with low cat density sites (LCD) versus high cat density (HCD) sites by conducting 100-m transect along dry-stone walls, on the island of Naxos, as well as on surrounding islets (Cyclades, Greece). Degree of expression of antipredator behaviors was determined by measuring flight initiation distance (FID) and rates of tail autotomy both in the field and in the lab for six populations in HCD, LCD sites and four satellite islets without cat presence. I also staged controlled encounters with mounted cats decoys and quantified escaping responses from lizards from these populations. I found that feral cats had a strong negative effect on lizard population densities. Lizards adapted their antipredator behaviors in response to cat predation by extending their FIDs, increasing their capacity for tail autotomy, and by staying closer to refugia. In laboratory predation simulations, lizards from cat-free islets had significantly shorter FIDs than LCD site lizards and in particular than HCD site lizards. Furthermore, some unique islet behaviors, presumably evolved in response to lack of predators and to ameliorate chronic conditions of food shortage, appear to render islet lizards strongly susceptible to cat predation. These behaviors include rarely utilizing available refugia, and moving towards anything new, including cat decoys. Nonetheless, I found that repeated exposures over three trials led to significant increases in FIDs for all populations, indicating at least some behavioral plasticity. My results suggest that although lizards may adapt their antipredator behaviors to cope with introduced predators, this offers at best only partial protection, so that there remains strong concern about their survival in the face of expanding feral cat populations.Master of ScienceNatural Resources and EnvironmentUniversity of Michiganhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/90870/1/Binbin_Final_Thesis_2012.pd

Clustering visitors to a religious island : the case of Tinos

Tourists visiting religious destinations are usually influenced by religious motivations. However, this might not be the case for all tourists, since visitors to religious sites may visit a destination not only for pilgrimage, but also to satisfy various needs interlinked with social, cultural and recreational factors. This paper attempts to investigate the motivations and activities of tourists visiting Tinos, a Greek island known as a religious destination for Christian Orthodox, by undertaking a clustering approach. A self-administrated questionnaire was distributed to 97 visitors of Tinos during the summer of 2007. From the findings it is evident that although the island is considered as one of the main religious sites for Christian Orthodox, tourists are not a homogenous group. Instead, the analytical approach adopted produced three segments, namely the “cultural tourists”, the “vacationers” and the “religious tourists”

Quarries environmental footprint in the framework of sustainable development : the case study of Milos island

The installation and operation of a quarry contains complex, difficult, and sometimes unsafe processes (such as explosive) that may affect public health as well as the whole environment and the sustainable development in general in the area which guest the quarry. This paper focuses on the Environmental Footprint from quarries activities located in the island of Milos (Greece), where bentonite, perlite, and pozzolan (type 1 and 2) are mined and extracted. Results indicated that energy consumption is considered to be higher for bentonite than perlite, while pozzolan presented with limited consumption per ton of product. More specific for the production of bentonite 1.81 L/t of oil is needed, 6.15 kWh electricity as well as 7.21 kg of production needs 1 m2 area. Regarding the production of perlite 2.86 L/t of oil is needed, 16.38 kWh electricity, while 7.43 kg required 1 m2 production areas. Pozzolan type 1 consumed 0.71 L/t of oil, 0.87 kWh electricity, and 0.01 kg explosives and 2 m2 of production area are needed, while for the production of pozzolan type 2, 0.87 l/t of oil, 0.76 kWh electricity are needed as well as an area of 10 m2 is required. Concerning the waste generation (which mainly includes rock materials) is 0.83 m3/t for bentonite, 0.39 m3/t for perlite, while in the case of pozzolan 1 and 2 are zero due to the fact that both materials are homogenized. Gaseous emissions were calculated as equivalence of CO2 and for the bentonite was 1.52%, for perlite was 2.18% per production ton of final product