bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction
Authors: Takabe Hideaki
Published: March 2024

A brief overview of the fluid model to describe most of the plasmas is given. Assuming the velocity distributions of electrons and ions are shifted Maxwellian distribution, plasmas can be described with fluid approximation regardless they are collisional or collisionless. The time evolution of laser plasmas is described with the fluid model with non-ideal equation of state, non-local electron transport, radiation transport, and so on. Modeling atomic state of plasma, effective charge, spectral opacity, and emissivity are calculated to couple with the energy equation of the electron fluid. As a reference to the plasma physics explained in this book, the physics scenario of laser fusion dynamics is used to know what kinds of physics become to couple from laser absorption to the fusion energy production through the implosion dynamics.

It is emphasized that the development of a physics-integrated code is important to study such laser-produced plasmas. Along with the advancement of technology for diagnostics and lasers, the analysis of the experimental data has helped the improvement of the physics models by comparing the experimental data to the corresponding simulations. Considering the technically limited number of implosion experiments with a huge laser facility, the advancement of the physics-integrated codes is becoming the main issue to increase the quality of analysis and design for better performance experiments. The progress of computer performance and advancement of experiments are now non-separable in complicated nonlinear systems such as plasma physics even within the hydrodynamic modeling of plasmas.
Self-Similar Solutions of Compressible Fluids
Authors: Takabe Hideaki
Published: March 2024

Strong shock waves are used to compress and heat any matters in the laboratory. The ablation pressure by intense laser is used to compress even solid matters. In plane geometry, it is easier to design multi-shocks to compress the matters, while it is more beneficial to use the spherical compression. No simple solutions are available to know the trajectories of shocks in one-dimensional spherical symmetry. Here we see several analytical solutions with the self-similar method. The method is to find new governing solution of ordinary differential equation from partial differential fluid equations. The self-similar method is known before the birth of computer.

The blast wave is the most famous one. Here, we review the basic method to derive several self-similar solutions allowing the spherical implosion, useful to laser driven implosion. The isobaric solution provides uniform pressure and spark-main fuel structure, and isochoric solution gives us uniform density profile at the maximum compression. It is shown that even including thermal conduction, it is possible to find a solution of ablation structure. This is an extended solution more appropriate compared to the steady state solutions shown in the previous chapter.

The blast waves are widely used from laser experiments to supernova remnants (SNRs). SNRs are blast waves driven by the matters exploding by supernova explosion. A self-similar solution with forward and reverse shock waves is found to explain many observation data of SNRs. A numerical simulation shows that the solution of ejecta-driven shock changes from Chevalier’s self-similar solution to the other Sedov-Taylor one. The self-similarity is one of the key physics controlling nonlinear hydrodynamic equations.
Opacity and Radiation Transport
Authors: Takabe Hideaki
Published: March 2024

When an intense laser is irradiated on medium and high Z materials, large amount of energy is converted to x-rays and transported as radiation in plasmas. The same kind of transport equation as the electrons should be solved for the radiation energy spectrum. The tuff issue for the case of non-local electron transport modeling was the inclusion of the effect of electric and magnetic fields. Instead, the photons can be assumed to travel with straight path, while the problem is physical modeling of opacity, especially when the plasma is partially ionized and line radiation transport is important. So, the modeling of spectral opacity and emissivity of partially ionized plasma becomes challenging. It has been studied for a long time in astrophysics regarding the evolution of stars etc. More challenging point in laser plasma is caused by the fact that the plasma is small but high-density, so that the laser plasma is optically thick in some case. With intense lasers, spectral opacity has been studied experimentally and opacity codes have been improved. Finally, neutrino transport in gravitationally-collapsing supernovae is also explained as a topic that the hydrodynamic instability is strongly affected by local and non-local transport by neutrino.
Physical of Warm Dense Matters
Authors: Takabe Hideaki
Published: March 2024

Continuous progress of compute capability, DFT has been used to study complicated physics of warm-dense matter (WDM) to compared to a variety of experimental results in laboratories obtained by compression and heating of solids with intense lasers. The phase transition of insulator-metal of hydrogen is now hot topics in high-pressure physics (HPP). Advancement of laser technology and diagnostics have made such challenging subjects as precision science.

In twenty-first century, x-ray free electron laser (XFEL) facilities have been constructed as users’ facility. XFEL is new method to precision diagnostics of dense matters via x-ray Thomson scattering (XRTS). For bridging the experiment and theory to analyze XRTS data, Chihara formulated scattering spectra by decomposing three dynamical structure factors (DSF). Now, time-dependent DFT (TDDFT) is also solved with supercomputer to apply laser-matter interaction in quantum world.

In this chapter, whole stories and models are explained and some examples are explained regarding the application to analyze experimental data obtained with intense lasers and XFEL.
The Implementation of Critical Thinking Skills in American Curriculum Schools in Sharjah: A Study on Science Teachers’ Approach and Academic Standards
Authors: El-Gazzar Heba , Forawi Sufian
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine the extent to which the science teachers apply critical thinking in their classrooms in some of American schools in Sharjah. In the modern days, the attention towards critical thinking skills is massive. For so many years it’s been acknowledged as a central objective in the field of education. The academic standards in various subjects including math, science, and social studies give significance to several connections between critical thinking and the content of the core curriculum, guiding the students in a more superior way. This research study was aspired to delve into the approach of in-service science teachers regarding the implementation and utilization of critical thinking attributes in science classes that apply the NGSS science academic content standards in some American curriculum schools in Sharjah (UAE). In this quantitative study, twenty science teachers responded and volunteered from various schools in Sharjah. A large diversity of standards was attended by science teachers in place of needing critical thinking skills in the face of the fact that a lot of others were contemplated to be inadequate. The scheme concerned with standards perceived high in comparison to critical thinking in science. However, the standards of the science content conceded the minimal amount.
Investigating the Food Waste Status in the Hospitality Sector of the Emirate of Dubai-UAE
Authors: Sadeh Reham Zeyad , Abu Hijleh Bassam
Published: March 2024

Saving natural resources to sustain a better future for the generations requires focusing mainly on the three pillars of a sustainable society; the social, economic and environmental. In 2015, the world was united to set international goals to reduce the recent, global problems affecting these pillars; the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Goal number 12 focuses on making consumption and production reasonable to lower the use of natural resources and decrease the waste generated consequently. The food loss and waste problem has been the focus of individuals and governments in the last few years as it affects the sustainable vision of the countries. Tackling this issue needs the united efforts of the private and public sectors and is considered under goal SDG 12.3. Food loss is defined as the decrease in food amounts before consumption, mostly in developing countries. While food waste focuses on food thrown out after consumption, left intentionally or thrown away, and mostly in developed countries. The UAE has one of the highest per capita amounts of food waste yearly, around 224 kg. Thus, efforts to tackle the problem have to start, this is in alignment with achieving international targets like SDG 12.3 and national ones such as “Zero Hunger” by 2051. Huge efforts and initiatives in the country are established, mainly focusing on recovering food waste through banks, composting and animal feeds. However, source reduction is considered the top priority in solving the food waste problem. This paper suggests topics to fill the theoretical gap, which was confirmed to be lacking in the country, in finding the causes and drivers of food waste in the hospitality sector of Dubai.
Estimating the Reliability of the Inspection System Employed for Detecting Defects in Rail Track Using Ultrasonic Guided Waves
Authors: Khalil Abdelgalil , Masurkar Faeez , Abdul-Ameer A.
Published: March 2024

This work focuses on the implementation of a data-based method to determine the inspection system reliability in terms of detecting different types of damages in rail tracks using ultrasonic-guided Rayleigh waves and a probability of detection (POD) technique. In this study, the reliability is tested against a surface crack (SC) and sub-surface damage – a through-side thickness hole (TSTH). The guided Rayleigh waves are generated using a custom-designed sensor that excites Rayleigh surface waves in the specimen and the propagating waves are sensed on the rail track surface. The wedge shape design of the sensor helps to excite a specific ultrasonic mode in the sample thereby hindering the ultrasonic energy of other coupled guided waves that can propagate simultaneously and the wedge angle is determined according to Snell’s law relying on the wave velocity of Rayleigh wave and bulk longitudinal wave. The guided wave responses as a function of varying severity of defects are obtained through a simulation study after the verification of the obtained guided wave responses with the help of an experimental study. A damage index (DI) is defined depending on defect size that gives the trend of damage severity from the captured ultrasonic responses and for monitoring defects in the rail track. This DI is eventually fed into the POD model to determine the probability of defect detection which in turn helps determine the inspection system reliability. The POD method also helps to study the critical design parameters that could affect or improve crack detection results.

Purpose – To determine the reliability of inspection system deployed for interrogating health status of rail track.

Methodology – Employing the Probability of detection technique for determining how reliable the inspection system is in detecting the health status of the rail track specimen using the ultrasonic guided waves.

Findings – It has been found that the proposed inspection system is >90% reliable in detecting defects.

Implications – This methodology can help maintenance engineers to make an informed decision on their developed technique for investigating the health status of the rail track sample.

Originality/ value – 13%.
The Impact of Job Satisfaction on Teachers’ Performance in the UAE
Authors: Salameh Nahida , Benkohila Nora
Published: March 2024

Job satisfaction greatly affects job performance. This is of a prodigious value in education as the teachers’ performance impacts the quality of education and thus the Human Development Index (HDI) of the nation.

Purpose: to investigate the effect of job satisfaction on the performance of teachers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) utilizing a scale that was used in business management previously.

Methodology: The research used a quantitative empirical method, whereby the impact of the independent variable (teachers’ satisfaction) was measured on the dependent variable (teachers’ performance). The data used was primary data collected via a survey distributed to a convenient sample. Respondents included 112 teachers working in UAE. SPSS application was used for data analysis. Reliability, factor analysis and construct validity were tested, and shown adequate sample and reliable tool. Regression model was applied, in order to test the two developed hypotheses.

Findings: revealed that job satisfaction is associated with job performance among teachers.

Implications: Results may help decision makers to enhance the teachers’ satisfaction in order to improve teachers’ performance.
Durability Design Approach and Exposure Conditions in Eurocode, British Standard and ISO 13823 Standards: A Review
Authors: Al-Haddad Diala Basim , Jokhio Gul Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Several incidents of early deterioration of reinforced concrete structures have been reported in recent years. Consequently, the critical demand to incorporate durability in the structural design and construction approach has emerged. As a result, durability design provisions in many countries’ standards have gotten increasingly stringent. In the absence of clear standard guidelines for design engineers, insufficient design and failures or an expensive over-design to provide for the worst-case scenario may occur. This paper compares and critically reviews the durability design requirements and provisions in the Eurocode, British standards, and ISO standards and proposes improvements that will contribute to the development of the coming generation of these documents. The review revealed similarities in the durability design approach, exposure conditions, and design requirements in the Eurocode code and British standard, whereas the ISO 13823 approach is different. The studied documents’ durability provisions are comprehensive, detailed, and well-defined. Nevertheless, several provisions require to be revised to avoid misinterpretation by the code practitioners and to ensure an economically conservative durable design.
Impact of Innovative Lighting Strategies on the Performance of Workplace Environment
Authors: Tobeishat Reema A. , Sheta Wael
Published: March 2024

Innovative lighting layouts ILS is crucial in the office environment, with a significant impact on occupants’ well-being, visual quality, and saving energy consumption. A technical understanding of light sources and performance is vital in lighting design. Open office lighting settings varies from small areas based on light quantity, fixed approach (recessed/suspended), and layout, affecting illuminance lx-level and visual quality. This study evaluates minimalist lighting conditions and identifies the most efficient solution for uniformity in a workspace. It focuses on specific zones (accent light seating zone, task area, and circulation zones). Considering many factors, such as luminaire type, layout distribution, and quantity, influence illuminance levels and visual quality. The aim is to establish various innovative lighting layouts for multiple tasks in an open office, and identify key factors enhancing illuminance levels, distribution uniformity, and energy efficiency. This work utilizes Dialux-evo 10 simulation software to develop various strategies using different minimalist luminaires shapes, quantities, and layout distributions within an existing office in Masdar City, UAE to improve visual workspace performance. Two-strategies have created, analyzing current conditions and evaluating proposed lighting concepts by installing various artificial lighting types and designing different layouts for each workspace independently. The results emphasize the importance of different factors such-as light efficacy and fixed lighting approach in achieving required illuminance levels. The visual impact of each workspace is influenced by lighting uniformity, color, and distribution, a CRI of 80 or higher is preferred for accurate color representation. The type, quantity, and arrangement of luminaires play a crucial role in the overall visual outcome. The linear arrangement with batwing-shaped distribution Scenario-C achieves an acceptable illuminance level of 565lx, resulting in a reduction of approximately 10.9% compared to the regular arrangement of the base case.
Highlighting the Impacts of Parents’ Beliefs on Students’ Education
Authors: Alahmad Alaaeddin , Hussin Mohamad , Sapar Ahmad Arifin
Published: March 2024

Purpose- To highlight the impacts of parents’ beliefs on students’ education due to the dearth of such studies in the field of education.

Methodology- A sequential mixed-method approach was utilised, where quantitative data were collected and analysed, and then triangulated with qualitative data. The study employed a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews completed by 51 and nine parents, respectively. Convenience sampling was used.

Findings- The obtained data showed that parents’ beliefs play a key role in students’ education, as these beliefs are associated with parents’ expectations regarding their children. Moreover, parents’ beliefs function as a guide for their children’s efforts and endeavours.

Implications- This study recommends that increasing parental awareness regarding their role in their children’s education would be an effective strategy that would provide students with an enhanced learning environment.

Originality/value- This study is considered of great value as it urges policy makers and leaders to increase investment in the parents’ role in students’ education.
Establishing a Guideline and Decision-Making Approach for UAE Solar Assets Waste Management by Utilizing PVsyst
Authors: Al−Ali Amel Khalid Ali , Abdul-Ameer Alaa , Touqan Basim
Published: March 2024

This research studies the PV solar panels waste with respect to their end-of-life EOL management for PV assets installed in a solar park in the UAE. The lack of thorough worldwide rules and frameworks that direct decision-making in connection to the disposal of photovoltaic (PV) panel waste, as well as the insufficient research on the management of such waste, are the driving forces behind this study. The study aims to address this gap by identifying the factors affecting the performance and efficiency of PV systems, specifically in UAE, a country known for its extremely hot and dry climate, and establish an evaluation approach and guidelines. PVsyst simulation software was utilized for the purpose of system performance analysis and to provide support in the decision-making process by adhering to specifically designed technical flowcharts. The fundamental performance-related parameters of the PV panels, coupled with meteorological information, were determined as important elements for assessing the general performance. The study also identified the main instruments used to make end-of-life (EOL) decisions. The results reveal that the photovoltaic (PV) system at the UAE solar park completed its end of life coupled with an 80% PR ratio sooner than anticipated, with 22 years as compared to the manufacturer's expected 25 years. This leads to the conclusion that installing photovoltaic (PV) panels in hot climates regions accelerates the degradation of the PV panels. The study provides a clear understanding of the circumstances that cause PV systems to fail earlier than expected and consequently introduce more waste to the environment.
The Role of UK Universities’ Reputation on Economic Recovery in the Crisis Time
Authors: Molavi Homa
Published: March 2024

This article discusses the role of university reputation in economic recovery, particularly in crisis situations. It highlights the importance of maintaining a good reputation for universities. Especially after Brexit, and during the covid pandemic, the burden of compensating the detrimental effects of existing from European Union has been on HE industries’ shoulder. However, the role of HE industry in helping UK to bolster up the economy has been ignored. However, ‘Regional Disparity’ could limit the impact of high-reputed universities.
A Systematic Review of Conversational AI Chatbots in Academic Advising
Authors: Assayed Suha Khalil , Alkhatib Manar , Shaalan Khaled
Published: March 2024

Purpose – This paper aims to review several studies published between 2018 to 2022 about advising chatbots in schools and universities as well as evaluating the state-of-the-art machine learning models that are deployed into these models.

Methodology – This paper follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), it demonstrated the main phases of the systematic review, it starts with screening 128 articles and then including 11 articles for systematic review which focused on the current services of the advising chatbots in schools and universities, as well the artificial models that are embedded into the chatbots.

Findings– Two main dimensions with other sub-dimensions are extracted from the 11 included studies as it shows the following: 1- Advising chatbots AI Architecture which includes other sub-dimensions on identifying the deep learning based chatbots, hybrid chatbots and other open-resources for customizing chatbots; 2- The goals of the advising chatbot as it includes both the admission advising and academic advising.

Conclusion – Most of studies shows that advising chatbots are developed for admission and academic advising. Few researchers who study the chatbots in high schools, there is a lack of studies in developing chatbots for students advising in high schools.

Limitations and future work – This study is constrained to review the studies from 2018–2022, and it is not exposed to the chatbots artifacts, even though, the human-chatbot interaction has an essential impact on students’ experiences. Future research should include the impact of chatbots interactive design and students’ experiences.
The Challenges Facing Adopting Innovation Process in the Context of Project Management Performance in the Oil and Gas Sector
Authors: Basioni Ahmed , Al Marri Khalid
Published: March 2024

Purpose – This paper explores the challenges and enablers of diffusing innovation processes within the oil and gas industry and the impact on the project management process in improving project performance.

Methodology – This study employs a qualitative analysis methodology with a structured survey to provide the data for this study.

Findings – The anticipated study findings will aid in identifying the primary obstacles to and facilitators of implementing innovation systems within the ecosystem of the oil and gas sector.

Implications – It is crucial to carry out follow-up research on integrating the “green innovation” concept to confirm the viability of establishing a conceptual framework for critical variables affecting the adoption of the innovation process within the energy industry.

Originality – Discussing the innovation process concerning project management and performance contributes to a broader understanding of a sustainable innovation process that supports expanding the oil and gas industry.
Soft Law in International Investment Law
Authors: Saroj Bini , Kolo Abba
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to analyze the concept of soft laws and its significance in international law with special emphasis on its effect on international investment law. In this paper, the authors have relied upon the works of legal scholars and arbitral jurisprudence to understand their observations about the role of soft laws and apply such observations to the present times to analyze the strengths and drawbacks of soft law in the current international investment law context. The paper argues that although formally non-binding, yet in practice soft law instruments do influence the behavior of states and foreign investors either directly or indirectly. They also play a significant role in the formulation of international law by serving as precursors to the formulation of binding rules by states or by developing the rights and obligations of the parties mainly through interpretation of vague or open-ended investment treaty provisions by arbitral tribunals.
The Impact of Digital Knowledge Management on Organizational Performance
Authors: Karim Asma Abdul , Khan Muhammad Waris Ali , Adeleke A. Q.
Published: March 2024

Digital knowledge management is one of the important components of the overall operations of the organisation, particularly in this digital era. It is comprised of three main components including digital knowledge creation, digital knowledge sharing and digital organisational learning in order to get maximum output in terms of financial and non-financial outcomes. This study particularly provides insights into the constructs of creating, sharing, disseminating, and learning on financial objectives such as profitability, return on investment cost saving, as well as non-financial objectives that include employee satisfaction, customer satisfaction and innovation. The Research will help us to evaluate whether digital knowledge management tools can have a positive impact on the overall organisational performance through digital technology that not only helps internal operations through digitised specifications as well as gains a competitive advantage in an external digital environment.

Purpose: The aim of the study is to investigate the overall effect of digital knowledge management on organisational performance particularly the purpose of the studies the impact of digital knowledge creation, digital knowledge sharing and Organisational learning on the overall performance that includes financial and non-financial outcomes.

Methodology: The methodology adopted in the study is based on the quantitative research approach utilising the survey data to get information on digital knowledge management practices and Organisation performance indicators.

Findings: The findings of the studies show a significant positive relationship between Digital knowledge management and Organisational performance in both financial and non-financial outcomes to enhance the overall performance of the organisation.

Implications: After evaluating all the data this study suggests that the organisation should protect prioritise and invest in digital knowledge management practices in audit in hands the financial and non-financial goals that include sustainable innovation, enhanced decision-making strategies and digital organisation learning.
Law Comparison as a Research Method in Legal Studies, and Its Importance in Promoting Uniformity in Legal Systems
Authors: Al Abiad Hiba , Masadeh Ayman
Published: March 2024

The article examines law comparison as a research method and its application in reinforcing legal systems. Comparative legal research methods and challenges will be briefly discussed. Comparative legal research is crucial for identifying effective methods, promoting legal framework uniformity and comprehension, as well as modernising the legal system. This article also discusses comparative law and model laws like the New York Convention (the “NYC”) on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards. Comparative law investigations ensure fair, efficient, and successful utilisation of legal systems. The author suggests that legal practitioners and scholars utilise it to clarify legal difficulties and find worldwide best practices.
The Impact of Key Determinants of BIM Technology Adoption on Organizational Performance within the UAE Construction Industry
Authors: Abdulrahim Amina
Published: March 2024

Purpose- To evaluate the impact of key determinates of BIM technology adoption on various aspects of organizational and business performance in the UAE construction industry using the UTAUT model. The three factors examined in this study are performance expectancy, behavioral intention, use behavior and their impact on organizational performance.

Methodology- This paper employs a theoretical background and proposes a research module to study the impact of key determinants of BIM technology adoption on organizational performance within UAE-based construction companies. The scope of this paper does not cover performing field empirical analysis.

Findings- The paper's expected outcomes will allow a better understanding of the impact of BIM adoption key determinants of BIM technology, and organizational performance within the UAE construction industry

Implications- The study can assist in maximizing the overall performance of companies within the UAE construction industry while adopting BIM technology, contributing to the literature in this area.

Originality/ value - Discussing BIM technology adoption key determinates impact organizational and business performance related to the construction industry within the UAE by employing the UTAUT model to develop a new research model, which will allow construction companies to increase overall business performance by adopting new technology. This will also contribute to the literature related to the diffusion of new technologies.
An Investigation of the Development and Implementation of Teacher's Licensing in Saudi Arabia Based on Local Stakeholders’ Perceptions, Compared with International and Regional Practices
Authors: Hameedadin Amal Abdullah , Hill Christopher
Published: March 2024

Saudi Arabia- is moving steadily toward Vision 2030. Accordingly, the Educational & Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC) has teamed up with the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia to update and raise the ‘Teacher Licensure Programme’ bar.

Purpose- The study aimed to investigate the development and implementation of the 2019 teacher licensure program in Saudi Arabia.

Methodology- The study adopted the exploratory sequential mixed method. The paper consisted of three stages. Initially, six policies were reviewed to compare international, regional, and local licensures. Second, the study collected quantitative data from 300 teachers from public schools through an online survey. The last stage collected qualitative data through a school leaders’ questionnaire.

Findings- Stage one findings were linked to international and regional practices. A comparative study revealed a lack of career development at the college level and during in-service training in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, there is a need for a standardized teacher evaluation system that includes constructive feedback and reflection. Based on stage two findings, teachers expressed negative views regarding the current licensing programme. In addition, stage three findings confirmed stage two results from the perspective of school leaders and policymakers.

Implications- Educators should consider building long-life learners by aligning licensing standards with the exam and desired outcomes, ensuring stakeholders’ involvement, create a continuous PD program.

Originality/value- This study filled a critical gap in the theoretical field of teacher licensing in the Gulf Region. Additionally, the research suggested a flexible framework based on the best practices and the perceptions and experiences of the stakeholders. The framework asserted that the licensing examination is one of a number of methods for evaluating teachers.
Integrating Competencies into Preventive Maintenance Scheduling with Answer Set Optimization
Authors: Yli-Jyrä Anssi , Ikävalko Heini , Janhunen Tomi
Published: March 2024

The maintenance optimization of multi-component machines has been recently formalized as an Answer Set Optimization (ASO) problem based on component selection and grouping of overlapping maintenance intervals. The motivation of the current work is to develop an extension that would integrate resources and availability constraints into this maintenance model. This article outlines an extended ASO model with the primary focus on modeling and optimizing costly maintenance resources, culminating in cost savings facilitated by the progressive development of workforce competence. The model presented in this work extends the cost function of the prior ASO formalization in a modular way with additional cost priorities concerning parallelism, workforce, and expertise. Due to the presented extensions, the complexity of the integrated maintenance model increases compared to the prior formalization.
Non-factorisable contributions of strong-penguin operators in Λb → Λℓ+ℓ− decays
Authors: Feldmann Thorsten , Gubernari Nico
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We investigate for the first time a certain class of non-factorisable contributions of the four-quark operators $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
3−6 in the weak effective Hamiltonian to the Λb → Λℓ+ℓ− decay amplitude. We focus on the case where a virtual photon is radiated from one of the light constituents of the Λb baryon, in the kinematic situation of large hadronic recoil with an energetic Λ baryon in the final state. The effect on the suitably defined “non-local form factors” is calculated using the light-cone sum rule approach for a correlator with an interpolating current for the light Λ baryon. We find that this approach requires the introduction of new soft functions that generalise the standard light-cone distribution amplitudes (LCDAs) for the heavy Λb baryon. We give a heuristic discussion of their properties and a model that relates them to the standard LCDAs. Within this framework, we provide numerical results for the size of the non-local form factors considered.
Non-Uniqueness and Energy Dissipation for 2D Euler Equations with Vorticity in Hardy Spaces
Authors: Buck Miriam , Modena Stefano
Published: March 2024

We construct by convex integration examples of energy dissipating solutions to the 2D Euler equations on $${\mathbb {R}}^2$$

R

2

with vorticity in the Hardy space $$H^p({\mathbb {R}}^2)$$

H
p

(

R

2

)

, for any $$2/3<p<1$$

2
/
3
<
p
<
1

.
Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation for treating gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with diabetes: a randomised, double-blind, sham-controlled, multicentre trial
Authors: Kornum Ditte S. , Bertoli Davide , Kufaishi Huda , Wegeberg Anne-Marie , Okdahl Tina , Mark Esben B. , Høyer Katrine L. , Frøkjær Jens B. , Brock Birgitte , Krogh Klaus , Hansen Christian S. , Knop Filip K. , Brock Christina , Drewes Asbjørn M.
Published: March 2024

Aims/hypothesis

Diabetic gastroenteropathy frequently causes debilitating gastrointestinal symptoms. Previous uncontrolled studies have shown that transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (tVNS) may improve gastrointestinal symptoms. To investigate the effect of cervical tVNS in individuals with diabetes suffering from autonomic neuropathy and gastrointestinal symptoms, we conducted a randomised, sham-controlled, double-blind (participants and investigators were blinded to the allocated treatment) study.

Methods

This study included adults (aged 20–86) with type 1 or 2 diabetes, gastrointestinal symptoms and autonomic neuropathy recruited from three Steno Diabetes Centres in Denmark. Participants were randomly allocated 1:1 to receive active or sham stimulation. Active cervical tVNS or sham stimulation was self-administered over two successive study periods: 1 week of four daily stimulations and 8 weeks of two daily stimulations. The primary outcome measures were gastrointestinal symptom changes as measured using the gastroparesis cardinal symptom index (GCSI) and the gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS). Secondary outcomes included gastrointestinal transit times and cardiovascular autonomic function.

Results

Sixty-eight participants were randomised to the active group, while 77 were randomised to the sham group. Sixty-three in the active and 68 in the sham group remained for analysis in study period 1, while 62 in each group were analysed in study period 2. In study period 1, active and sham tVNS resulted in similar symptom reductions (GCSI: −0.26 ± 0.64 vs −0.17 ± 0.62, p=0.44; GSRS: −0.35 ± 0.62 vs −0.32 ± 0.59, p=0.77; mean ± SD). In study period 2, active stimulation also caused a mean symptom decrease that was comparable to that observed after sham stimulation (GCSI: −0.47 ± 0.78 vs −0.33 ± 0.75, p=0.34; GSRS: −0.46 ± 0.90 vs −0.35 ± 0.79, p=0.50). Gastric emptying time was increased in the active group compared with sham (23 min vs −19 min, p=0.04). Segmental intestinal transit times and cardiovascular autonomic measurements did not differ between treatment groups (all p>0.05). The tVNS was well-tolerated.

Conclusions/interpretation

Cervical tVNS, compared with sham stimulation, does not improve gastrointestinal symptoms among individuals with diabetes and autonomic neuropathy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04143269

Funding

The study was funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation (grant number NNF180C0052045)

Graphical Abstract
Uniformly strict equilibrium for repeated games with private monitoring and communication
Authors: McLean Richard , Obara Ichiro , Postlewaite Andrew
Published: March 2024

Cooperation through repetition is an important theme in game theory. In this regard, various celebrated “folk theorems” have been proposed for repeated games in increasingly more complex environments. There has, however, been insufficient attention paid to the robustness of a large set of equilibria that is needed for such folk theorems. Starting with perfect public equilibrium as our starting point, we study uniformly strict equilibria in repeated games with private monitoring and direct communication (cheap talk). We characterize the limit equilibrium payoff set and identify the conditions for the folk theorem to hold with uniformly strict equilibrium.
Molecular mechanisms of resveratrol and its silver nanoparticle conjugate in addressing sepsis-induced lung injury
Authors: Üstündağ Hilal , Kara Adem , Doğanay Songül , Kurt Nezahat , Erbaş Elif , Kalindemirtaş Ferdane Danişman , Kariper İshak Afşin
Published: March 2024

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to infection. Despite extensive research on its pathophysiology, effective therapeutic approaches remain a challenge. This study investigated the potential of resveratrol (RV) and silver nanoparticle–enhanced resveratrol (AgNP-RV) as treatments for sepsis-induced lung injury using a rat model of polymicrobial sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The study focused on evaluating changes in oxidative status (TAS, TOS, and OSI) and the expression of inflammatory and apoptotic markers (IL-1β, TNF-α, P2X7R, TLR4, Caspase-3, and Bcl-2) in lung tissue. Both RV and AgNP-RV demonstrated potential in mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, with AgNP-RV exhibiting greater efficacy than RV alone (p < 0.05). These findings were corroborated by histopathological analyses, which revealed reduced tissue damage in the RV- and AgNP-RV-treated groups. Our study highlights the therapeutic potential of RV and, particularly, AgNP-RV in combating sepsis-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. It also underscores the promise of nanoparticle technology in enhancing therapeutic outcomes. However, further investigations are warranted to fully understand the mechanisms of action, especially concerning the role of the P2X7 receptor in the observed effects. Nonetheless, our research suggests that RV and AgNP-RV hold promise as novel strategies for sepsis management.
“Resistance leads to self-destruction”: how an (a)political strategy helped Karl von Frisch succeed during the Nazi era
Authors: Zupanc Günther K. H. , Wanninger Susanne
Published: March 2024

Karl von Frisch, one of the leading zoologists of the twentieth century and co-founder of the Journal of Comparative Physiology A, has been frequently portrayed as an opponent of the Nazi regime because he, as a ‘quarter-Jew,’ faced the threat of forced retirement from his position as a professor at the University of Munich during the Third Reich. However, doubts about an active opposition role have surfaced in recent years. A litmus test for assessing the validity of this notion is provided by our discovery that four of the six core members of the anti-Nazi resistance group ‘White Rose’—Sophie Scholl, Hans Scholl, Christoph Probst, and Alexander Schmorell—were his students. When they were arrested, sentenced to death, and executed, he seemed to ignore this historic event, both during and after World War II—in line with his belief that resistance leads to self-destruction, and research can flourish only by ignoring what happens around oneself. On the other hand, this seemingly apolitical attitude did not prevent him from making use of politics when it served his interests. Such actions included his (pseudo-)scientific justification of forced sterilization of people suffering from hereditary disorders during the Third Reich and his praise of the Nazi government’s efforts to “keep races pure.” As unsettling as these and some other political views and actions of Karl von Frisch are, they enabled him to carry out several critical pieces of his research agenda during the Third Reich, which three decades later earned him a Nobel Prize.
Efficient inference and learning of a generative model for ENSO predictions from large multi-model datasets
Authors: Groth Andreas , Chavez Erik
Published: March 2024

Historical simulations of global sea-surface temperature (SST) from the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) are analyzed. A state-of-the-art deep learning approach is applied to provide a unified access to the diversity of simulations in the large multi-model dataset in order to go beyond the current technological paradigm of ensemble averaging. Based on the concept of a variational auto-encoder (VAE), a generative model of global SST is proposed in combination with an inference model that aims to solve the problem of determining a joint distribution over the data generating factors. With a focus on the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the performance of the VAE-based approach in simulating various central features of observed ENSO dynamics is demonstrated. A combination of the VAE with a forecasting model is proposed to make predictions about the distribution of global SST and the corresponding future path of the Niño index from the learned latent factors. The proposed ENSO emulator is compared with historical observations and proves particularly skillful at reproducing various aspects of observed ENSO asymmetry between the two phases of warm El Niño and cold La Niña. A relationship between ENSO asymmetry and ENSO predictability is identified in the ENSO emulator, which improves the prediction of the simulated Niño index in a number of CMIP5 models.
Give your ideas a hand: the role of iconic hand gestures in enhancing divergent creative thinking
Authors: Hyusein Gyulten , Göksun Tilbe
Published: March 2024

Hand gestures play an integral role in multimodal language and communication. Even though the self-oriented functions of gestures, such as activating a speaker’s lexicon and maintaining visuospatial imagery, have been emphasized, gestures’ functions in creative thinking are not well-established. In the current study, we investigated the role of iconic gestures in verbal divergent thinking—a creative thinking process related to generating many novel ideas. Based on previous findings, we hypothesized that iconic gesture use would facilitate divergent thinking in young adults, especially those with high mental imagery skills. Participants performed Guildford’s Alternative Uses Task in a gesture-spontaneous and in a gesture-encouraged condition. We measured fluency (number of ideas), originality (uniqueness of ideas), flexibility (number of idea categories), and elaboration (number of details) in divergent thinking. The results showed that producing iconic gestures in the gesture-encouraged condition positively predicted fluency, originality, and elaboration. In the gesture-spontaneous condition, producing iconic gestures also positively predicted elaboration but negatively predicted flexibility. Mental imagery skills did not interact with the effects of gestures on divergent thinking. These results suggest that iconic gestures are a promising candidate for enhancing almost all aspects of divergent thinking. Overall, the current study adds a new dimension to the self-oriented function of iconic gestures, that is, their contribution to creative thinking.
Decision regret of cancer patients after radiotherapy: results from a cross-sectional observational study at a large tertiary cancer center in Germany
Authors: Rühle Alexander , Wieland Leonie , Hinz Andreas , Mehnert-Theuerkauf Anja , Nicolay Nils H. , Seidel Clemens
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The decision-making process regarding cancer treatment is emotionally challenging for patients and families, harboring the risk of decision regret. We aimed to explore prevalence and determinants of decision regret following radiotherapy.

Methods

This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at a tertiary cancer center to assess decision regret following radiotherapy. The study employed the German version of the Ottawa Decision Regret Scale (DRS) which was validated in the study population. Decision regret was categorized as absent (0 points), mild (1–25 points), and strong (> 25 points). Various psychosocial outcome measures were collected using validated questionnaires to identify factors that may be associated with decision regret.

Results

Out of 320 eligible patients, 212 participated, with 207 completing the DRS. Median age at start of radiotherapy was 64 years [interquartile range (IQR), 56–72], genders were balanced (105 female, 102 male), and the most common cancer types were breast (n = 84; 41%), prostate (n = 57; 28%), and head-and-neck cancer (n = 19; 9%). Radiotherapy was applied with curative intention in 188 patients (91%). Median time between last radiotherapy fraction and questionnaire completion was 23 months (IQR, 1–38). DRS comprehensibility was rated as good or very good by 98% (196 of 201) of patients. Decision regret was reported by 43% (n = 90) as absent, 38% (n = 78) as mild, and 18% (n = 38) as strong. In the multiple regression analysis, poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, low social support, and dissatisfaction with care were independent risk factors for higher decision regret after radiotherapy.

Conclusions

The German version of the DRS could be used to assess decision regret in a diverse cohort of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Decision regret was prevalent in a considerable proportion of patients. Further studies are necessary to validate these findings and obtain causal factors associated with decision regret after radiotherapy.
The N(1440) Roper Resonance in the Nuclear Model with Explicit Mesons
Authors: Fedorov D. V.
Published: March 2024

We show that the N(1440) Roper resonance naturally appears in the nuclear model with explicit mesons as a structure in the continuum spectrum of the physical proton, which in this calculation is made of a bare nucleon dressed with a pion cloud.