Search Results (5)

In this article, we introduce novel fixed point results for Boyd–Wong-type contraction mappings within the framework of similarity spaces, which have broad practical applications. The development of these results extends the classical theory of Boyd–Wong contractions by exploiting the unique structure and properties of similarity spaces. We provide an in-depth examination of the derived contractions, establishing conditions under which fixed points exist and are unique. In the latter part of the paper, we illustrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed results with representative examples. Full article

In the present paper, we aim to study the long-time behavior of a stochastic semi-linear degenerate parabolic equation on a bounded or unbounded domain and driven by a nonlinear noise. Since the theory of pathwise random dynamical systems cannot be applied directly to the equation with nonlinear noise, we first establish the existence of weak pullback mean random attractors for the equation by applying the theory of mean-square random dynamical systems; then, we prove the existence of (pathwise) pullback random attractors for the Wong–Zakai approximate system of the equation. In addition, we establish the upper semicontinuity of pullback random attractors for the Wong–Zakai approximate system of the equation under consideration driven by a linear multiplicative noise. Full article

Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to perceive, express, understand, and manage emotions. Current research indicates that it may protect against the emotional burden experienced in certain professions. This article aims to provide an updated systematic review of existing instruments to assess EI in professionals, focusing on the description of their characteristics as well as their psychometric properties (reliability and validity). A literature search was conducted in Web of Science (WoS). A total of 2761 items met the eligibility criteria, from which a total of 40 different instruments were extracted and analysed. Most were based on three main models (i.e., skill-based, trait-based, and mixed), which differ in the way they conceptualize and measure EI. All have been shown to have advantages and disadvantages inherent to the type of tool. The instruments reported in the largest number of studies are Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i), Schutte Self Report-Inventory (SSRI), Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test 2.0 (MSCEIT 2.0), Trait Meta-Mood Scale (TMMS), Wong and Law’s Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS), and Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue). The main measure of the estimated reliability has been internal consistency, and the construction of EI measures was predominantly based on linear modelling or classical test theory. The study has limitations: we only searched a single database, the impossibility of estimating inter-rater reliability, and non-compliance with some items required by PRISMA. Full article

We obtain quasi-metric versions of the famous Meir–Keeler fixed point theorem from which we deduce quasi-metric generalizations of Boyd–Wong’s fixed point theorem. In fact, one of these generalizations provides a solution for a question recently raised in the paper “On the fixed point theory in bicomplete quasi-metric spaces”, J. Nonlinear Sci. Appl. 2016, 9, 5245–5251. We also give an application to the study of existence of solution for a type of recurrence equations associated to certain nonlinear difference equations. Full article

The extant genetic machinery revolves around three interrelated polymers: RNA, DNA and proteins. Two evolutionary views approach this vital connection from opposite perspectives. The RNA World theory posits that life began in a cold prebiotic broth of monomers with the de novo emergence of replicating RNA as functionally self-contained polymer and that subsequent evolution is characterized by RNA → DNA memory takeover and ribozyme → enzyme catalyst takeover. The FeS World theory posits that life began as an autotrophic metabolism in hot volcanic-hydrothermal fluids and evolved with organic products turning into ligands for transition metal catalysts thereby eliciting feedback and feed-forward effects. In this latter context it is posited that the three polymers of the genetic machinery essentially coevolved from monomers through oligomers to polymers, operating functionally first as ligands for ligand-accelerated transition metal catalysis with later addition of base stacking and base pairing, whereby the functional dichotomy between hereditary DNA with stability on geologic time scales and transient, catalytic RNA with stability on metabolic time scales existed since the dawn of the genetic machinery. Both approaches are assessed comparatively for chemical soundness. Full article