bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exclusion of condensin I from the nucleus during prophase coordinates mitotic chromosome reorganization to complete sister chromatid resolution
Authors: Eykelenboom John K. , Gierliński Marek , Yue Zuojun , Tanaka Tomoyuki U.
Published: April 2024

Abstract

During early mitosis, chromosomes are reorganized from their relatively decompacted interphase state into characteristic mitotic rod-shaped structures. This process is important to allow correct segregation of newly replicated sister chromatids to the opposite spindle poles during anaphase. To facilitate mitotic chromosome organization, two protein complexes named condensin I and condensin II play crucial roles. Condensin II is particularly important for achieving sister chromatid separation (resolution) whilst condensin I is required for chromosome condensation (compaction). Although sister chromatid resolution occurs 15-20 min earlier before chromosome compaction, it is not yet clear how these events are temporally coordinated or whether this temporal coordination is important to ensure chromosome segregation later in mitosis. One hypothesis is that the temporal coordination is achieved through different subcellular localisation of two condensin complexes; whilst condensin II localizes in the nucleus, condensin I is restricted to the cytoplasm, during interphase and prophase. In this study we tested this hypothesis by engineering the localization of condensin I to the nucleus. We monitored sister chromatid resolution and chromosome compaction by real-time imaging that visualized selected neighboring chromosome loci. We found that localization of condensin I to the nucleus led to precocious chromosome compaction during prophase with a similar timing to sister chromatid resolution. We also monitored later stages of mitosis and found that cells expressing nuclear condensin I subsequently exhibited frequent chromosome mis-segregation in anaphase. Therein, the majority of mis-segregated chromosomes consisted of lagging chromosomes involving both sister chromatids. This suggests that the temporal control of mitotic chromosome reorganization is crucial for high-fidelity chromosome segregation. In conclusion, the exclusion of condensin I from the nucleus during prophase delays chromosome compaction and allows condensin II to complete sister chromatid resolution, which ensures correct chromosome segregation later in mitosis.
Multifitting 2: software for reflectometric, off-specular and grazing-incidence small-angle scattering analysis of multilayer nanofilms
Authors: Svechnikov Mikhail
Published: April 2024

Multifitting is a computer program that was originally designed to model the reflection and transmission of shortwave radiation by multilayer nanofilms. Three years have passed since the introduction of this software, and in this paper the focus is on describing the possibilities of Multifitting with regard to off-specular diffuse scattering and grazing-incidence small-angle scattering. The approach to the user interface and to working with the structure model remains the same, and the emphasis is on the ergonomics, calculation speed and intensive use of the program for technological and research tasks. However, the scope of the program has been expanded to make it more useful to existing users, and it may also be of interest to a wider audience.
Coupling between cation and anion disorder in β-K2Ca3(CO3)4
Authors: Rashchenko Sergey V. , Ignatov Mark A. , Shatskiy Anton F. , Arefiev Anton V. , Litasov Konstantin D.
Published: April 2024

Since the development of anionic group theory, the spatial arrangement of anionic groups in optical crystals has been believed to determine their functional, such as nonlinear optical, properties. At the same time, cation substitution, resulting in either the appearance of disordered cation sites in a crystal structure or the emergence of cation-ordered superstructures, has been widely used to control material properties. This work demonstrates the coupling between positional cation disorder and orientational disorder of (CO3)2− anions in the β modification of the recently described K2Ca3(CO3)4 material. In contrast to the α modification [P212121, a = 7.39134 (18), b = 8.8153 (2), c = 16.4803 (4) Å], where the ordered cation sublattice favors the non-centrosymmetric orientationally ordered arrangement of (CO3)2− anionic groups, positional cation disorder in β-K2Ca3(CO3)4 [Pnma, a = 7.5371 (2), b = 16.1777 (5), c = 8.7793 (3) Å] within the cation sublattice of the same topology leads to orientational disorder of (CO3)2− groups and the appearance of an inversion center in the average structure.
Bragg Spot Finder (BSF): a new machine-learning-aided approach to deal with spot finding for rapidly filtering diffraction pattern images
Authors: Dong Jianxiang , Yin Zhaozheng , Kreitler Dale , Bernstein Herbert J. , Jakoncic Jean
Published: April 2024

Macromolecular crystallography contributes significantly to understanding diseases and, more importantly, how to treat them by providing atomic resolution 3D structures of proteins. This is achieved by collecting X-ray diffraction images of protein crystals from important biological pathways. Spotfinders are used to detect the presence of crystals with usable data, and the spots from such crystals are the primary data used to solve the relevant structures. Having fast and accurate spot finding is essential, but recent advances in synchrotron beamlines used to generate X-ray diffraction images have brought us to the limits of what the best existing spotfinders can do. This bottleneck must be removed so spotfinder software can keep pace with the X-ray beamline hardware improvements and be able to see the weak or diffuse spots required to solve the most challenging problems encountered when working with diffraction images. In this paper, we first present Bragg Spot Detection (BSD), a large benchmark Bragg spot image dataset that contains 304 images with more than 66 000 spots. We then discuss the open source extensible U-Net-based spotfinder Bragg Spot Finder (BSF), with image pre-processing, a U-Net segmentation backbone, and post-processing that includes artifact removal and watershed segmentation. Finally, we perform experiments on the BSD benchmark and obtain results that are (in terms of accuracy) comparable to or better than those obtained with two popular spotfinder software packages (Dozor and DIALS), demonstrating that this is an appropriate framework to support future extensions and improvements.
iModel: an interactive 3D crystal structure visualization program
Authors: Cao Jian , Feng Zhenjie , Lv Binfeng , Sun Xiaowei , Chang Shihui , Zhang Jincang , Zhang Tongyi
Published: April 2024

This work presents present iModel, an interactive 3D crystal structure visualization program capable of reading crystal structure datafiles in various formats and rendering corresponding 3D models. Users can interact with the models by translating, rotating and zooming in on them. The software visualizes crystal structures, including atoms, bonds, unit cells and polyhedral shapes using spheres, lines and polyhedra, with customizable colors and sizes for individual atoms and bonds. The software features perspective and orthogonal projections, multiple chemical bond search modes, and a user-friendly toolbar for view control, and exports models as images or saves progress in project files. Developed on the LabVIEW platform with Python extensions, the iModel program leverages a queue message handler and producer–consumer pattern for a modular, reusable and powerful crystal structure visualization tool.
Who can afford to blame? Sender effects in blame-shifting crisis communications
Authors: Antonetti Paolo , Baghi Ilaria
Published: April 2024

Purpose

When companies face a crisis, they sometimes deliver blame-shifting communications, trying to shift blame onto another actor to protect their reputation. While previous research has considered how different features of the message affect its persuasiveness, little is known about whether specific senders can blame more effectively. This paper aims to contribute to research in this domain through an investigation of the sender’s social perception as a critical moderator to the persuasiveness of blame shifting.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct four between-subjects scenario experiments to test the research hypotheses. In each experiment, participants are presented with a realistic crisis scenario and the crisis communications delivered by the company. The authors assess the extent to which perceptions of the sender influence the message’s ability to reduce negative word-of-mouth intentions and to increase purchase intentions.

Findings

The authors show that blame shifting is more likely to be effective when deployed by senders that are small (Study 1) or have a positive CSR track record (Study 2). Furthermore, The authors find that even large senders can successfully deploy blame shifting if they can benefit from being known for their CSR programs (Study 3). Finally, the authors show that the effect of blame shifting depends on the receiver’s level of concern about the crisis: stakeholders significantly concerned by the crisis reject blame-shifting communications (Study 4).

Research limitations/implications

Further research should examine the impact of information about brand competence on blame-shifting effectiveness. Further research is also needed to explore sender effects for other defensive crisis communication strategies such as denial or the use of excuses or justifications.

Practical implications

The study offers critical information for marketers considering the use of defensive crisis communications strategies such as blame shifting.

Originality/value

The study extends the understanding of how sender effects influence blame-shifting communications. The analysis allows us to clarify why this strategy is effective for certain senders and certain receivers while, for others, it tends to backfire. Blame shifting backfires for large senders unless they can boast a strong CSR record.
The influence of ChatGPT on digital learning: experience among university students
Authors: Komba Mercy Mlay
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of ChatGPT, an AI-based chatbot, on the digital learning experience of students at Mzumbe University.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a qualitative research design to gather in-depth insights from participants. Semi-structured interviews and an analysis of previous chat content were used as primary sources of data. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data, allowing for the exploration of participants’ perspectives, experiences and opinions regarding the integration of ChatGPT into the learning process.

Findings

The results of the study demonstrated that ChatGPT is widely used in educational contexts and has a positive influence on students’ study habits, academic performance, and understanding of course material. Students appreciated the system’s simplicity, tailored instructions, and the promptness and accuracy of the responses. Despite the possibility of isolated mistakes.

Research limitations/implications

It is important to recognize the limitations of this study. First, the sample size was small, limiting the broad application of the results. Second, this study’s narrow emphasis on students at Mzumbe University limits its applicability in other situations. Furthermore, depending on self-reported experiences, biases, such as individual interpretation or recollection bias, can occur.

Practical implications

Educators can maximize ChatGPT in the classroom by using study insights. Its advantages, such as effectiveness and enhanced performance, highlight the possibility for student-centered learning. Practitioners are guided by their awareness of problems, such as probable errors. Constant updates guarantee ChatGPT’s applicability and provide educators with useful advice.

Social implications

Peer impact is highlighted in this study concerning social factors on the adoption of AI in education. Resolving issues preserves public confidence. Views influence public opinion and direct policymakers in discussions about safe AI use. It influences public attitudes while navigating the ethical integration of AI.

Originality/value

This study offers insightful information about the impact of ChatGPT on digital learning in Tanzania’s higher education. It makes innovative research contributions that enhance educational practices and emphasizes the advantages, difficulties and demands of responsible usage in the context of AI-based chatbots.
Are robots stealing our jobs? Examining robot-phobia as a job stressor in the hospitality workplace
Authors: Chen Chun-Chu (Bamboo) , Cai Ruiying
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore robot-phobia as a source of occupational stress among hospitality employees in the context of increasing robotization in the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sampled 321 lodging employees and 308 food service employees in the USA. An online panel company recruited the participants and administered an online survey. The study used various analytical methods, including structural modeling, t-tests and multi-group analyses.

Findings

The study results reveal that hospitality workers experience robot-phobia regardless of their sector or position. Robot-phobia causes job insecurity and stress, which increases turnover intention. These negative outcomes are more pronounced for those who interact more frequently with robots.

Practical implications

The study findings suggest that hospitality workers fear being replaced by robots in the near future. Therefore, hospitality organizations should offer adequate training and education on the advantages and drawbacks of robots and establish a supportive and collaborative work environment that values human–robot interaction.

Originality/value

This study offers new insights regarding human–robot interaction from the employee perspective by introducing the concept of robot-phobia in the hospitality workplace. A comprehensive picture of how hospitality employees confront the increasing presence of robots is provided in this study.
How overloaded employees can use resilience and forgiveness resources to overcome dissatisfaction and maintain their knowledge-sharing efforts
Authors: De Clercq Dirk , Pereira Renato
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Drawing on conservation of resources theory, this study aims to examine how employees’ experiences of excessive workloads may direct them away from efforts to share knowledge with other organizational members, as well as the circumstances in which this process is more or less likely. To untangle the process, the authors predict a mediating role of job dissatisfaction and moderating roles of two complementary resources that help employees cope with failure: resilience as a personal resource and organizational forgiveness as an organizational resource.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were gathered from employees of an organization that operates in the construction retail sector. The Process macro provides an empirical test of the moderated mediation dynamic that underpins the proposed conceptual framework.

Findings

The statistical findings affirm that an important channel through which employees’ perceptions that their work demands are unreasonable escalate into a diminished propensity to share knowledge is their lack of enthusiasm about their jobs. Their ability to recover from challenging work situations and their beliefs that the organization does not hold grudges against people who commit mistakes both mitigate this harmful effect.

Practical implications

For organizational practitioners, this research shows that when employees feel frustrated about extreme work pressures, the resource-draining situation may escalate into diminished knowledge sharing, which might inadvertently undermine their ability to receive valuable feedback for dealing with the challenges. From a positive perspective, individual resilience and organizational forgiveness represent resources that can protect employees against this negative spiral.

Originality/value

This study explicates an unexplored harmful effect of strenuous workloads on knowledge sharing, which is explained by employees’ beliefs that their organization fails to provide satisfactory job experiences. This effect also is mitigated to the extent that employees can draw from valuable personal and organizational resources.
Netnography: a research method to study supply chain members' interactions in online communities
Authors: Rynarzewska Ania Izabela , Giunipero Larry
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to further the understanding of netnography as a research method for supply chain academics. Netnography is a method for gathering and gaining insight from industry-specific online communities. We prescribe that viewing netnography through the lens of the supply chain will permit researchers to explore, discover, understand, describe or report concepts or phenomena that have previously been studied via survey research or quantitative modeling.

Design/methodology/approach

To introduce netnography to supply chain research, we propose a framework to guide how netnography can be adopted and used. Definitions and directions are provided, highlighting some of the practices within netnographic research.

Findings

Netnography provides the researcher with another avenue to pursue answers to research questions, either alone or in conjunction with the dominant methods of survey research and quantitative modeling. It provides another tool in the researchers’ toolbox to engage practitioners in the field.

Originality/value

The development of netnography as a research method is associated with Robert Kozinets. He developed the method to study online communities in consumer behavior. We justify why this method can be applied to supply chain research, how to collect data and provide research examples of its use. This technique has room to grow as a supply chain research method.
Transfer film formation and dissipation and its effect on friction coefficient in NAO friction materials containing FeS2 lubricant
Authors: Go Sangryul
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the accumulation process of transfer film formation and dissipation and its effect on friction coefficients in non asbestos organic friction materials with various lubricant FeS2 contents.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 2.5%, 5% and 10% FeS2 were added as lubricating components to the friction materials. Friction tests composed of two stages were conducted for these friction materials, and the friction surfaces of the counterpart discs were examined using scanning electron microscopy.

Findings

The transfer film formation reduced the friction coefficients, and the transfer film dissipation influenced the recovery of the friction coefficients. The effect of a high content of FeS2 was to promote the transfer film formation at high temperatures and to hinder the transfer film dissipation at low temperatures, thus resulting in a decrease in the friction coefficients at high temperatures together with recovery retardation at low temperatures.

Originality/value

FeS2 contributed to the transfer film formation at high temperatures in the fade test but hindered the transfer film removal in the recovery test, resulting in the retardation of friction coefficient recovery. The mechanism by which the FeS2 lubricant component affected the transfer film formation and dissipation was analyzed and attributed to the different levels of FeS2 pyrolysis at different temperature levels.
Educational trajectories for residential care experienced young people are complex. A lived experience perspective from a PhD study in Scotland
Authors: Whitelaw Ruby Valerie
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Research highlights that residential care experienced children and young people in Scotland have poorer educational outcomes than their peers within the wider population. Despite this, poor educational attainment is not inevitable, and further research is needed to increase the understanding of long-term trajectories. This paper aims to address a gap in contemporary literature that is of benefit to practitioners, academics and policymakers. Despite experiencing adversity, attachment, separation and loss, school attainment data on leaving care only reflects part of the educational journey.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a mixed methodology and social constructionist theoretical framework, a practitioner-led PhD study gathered data from questionnaires and qualitative information from 13 semi-structured interviews with young people who had experienced residential care in Scotland. Recruitment was through a gatekeeper within a national third-sector organisation. The educational trajectories for young people with experience of residential care in Scotland are complex. A lived experience perspective from a PhD study illustrates that statistical data only captures part of the journey and the author needs to reconsider how success is measured.

Findings

Of the 13 participants in the study, 12 achieved success educationally, although for the majority of those interviewed, attainment continued after leaving compulsory education. Barriers to greater success included placement uncertainty and movement, stigma, low expectations, pressure to not become a statistic, procedural obstacles and inconsistency or poor relationships.

Research limitations/implications

Supportive relationships and stable placements can create circumstances conducive to effective learning, but evidence reflects that support is necessary throughout the life course if children, young people and adults with care experience are to reach their full academic potential.

Originality/value

Research into the educational outcomes for those with experience of residential care in Scotland is limited. This paper, from a PhD, provides lived experience accounts from a practitioner-led study.
A decision-making framework in family-owned hotels for evaluating and selecting suppliers and strategic partners
Authors: Tajpour Mehdi , Dekamini Fatemeh , Madadpour Farzaneh , Norouzimovahed Moein , SafarMohammadluo Shima
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper presents a comprehensive decision-making framework designed for family-owned hotels, specifically focusing on evaluating and selecting suppliers and strategic partners, with a particular emphasis on Iranian holding companies and five-star hotels.

Design/methodology/approach

The research emphasizes the unique position of family-owned hotels as not only commercial enterprises but also embodiments of tradition, personal touch and community engagement, which sets them apart in a competitive market. Through a detailed literature review, methodology and analysis, including fuzzy analysis and the TOPSIS method, the study systematically evaluates various criteria crucial for selecting suppliers and strategic partners.

Findings

The framework evaluates criteria such as price competitiveness, quality of products/services, reliability and timeliness, flexibility and scalability, communication and responsiveness, after-sales service and support, ethical and sustainable practices, technology and innovation, and compatibility with business culture. By integrating these parameters, the framework addresses both operational needs and strategic objectives, ensuring chosen suppliers and partners align with the hotels' core values and operational requirements.

Research limitations/implications

The study offers valuable insights for family-owned hospitality businesses to navigate supplier and strategic partner selection, and opens avenues for future research, particularly in adapting to technological advancements, sustainability practices and the evolving dynamics of the hospitality industry.

Social implications

The research underscores the significance of family-owned hotels in fostering tradition, personal connection and community engagement, contributing to the social fabric of the hospitality industry.

Originality/value

This paper provides a unique perspective on supplier and strategic partner selection, tailored for family-owned hotels and offers a comprehensive framework that integrates both operational needs and strategic objectives, ensuring alignment with core values and requirements.
Association of using enteral nutrition containing probiotics and dietary inflammatory index with inflammatory factors serum levels and gastrointestinal complications in infected patients with COVID-19
Authors: Mohajeri Mahsa , Abedi Negin
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the association between the dietary inflammatory index, the consumption of Enteral Nutrition Supplemented with probiotics with certain serum inflammation markers and gastrointestinal complications among individuals diagnosed with COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional investigation involved 100 COVID-19 patients who were admitted to intensive care units in hospitals. These patients were administered two different types of Enteral Nutrition, so the dietary inflammatory index (DII), gastrointestinal complications and some serum inflammation markers have been compared between two groups.

Findings

The mean DII scores in all patients were significantly pro-inflammatory (probiotic formula 2.81 ± 0.01 vs usual formula group 2.93 ± 0.14p= 0.19). The probiotic formula consumption had an inverse association with High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein concentration (coef = −3.19, 95% CI −1.25, −5.14p= 0.001) and lead to a reduction of 2.14 mm/h in the serum level of Erythrocyte sedimentation rate compared to normal formula. The incidence of diarrhea, abdominal pain and vomiting in probiotic formula patients was respectively 94%, 14% and 86% less than in usual formula patients (p= 0.05).

Originality/value

In this cross-sectional study for the first time, the authors found that probiotic formula consumption was inversely associated with serum inflammation markers and gastrointestinal complications incidence. The high DII leads to more gastrointestinal complications incidence and inflammation markers. More studies are needed to prove this relationship.
Victorian (Australian) parents are receptive to a primary school-provided lunch program
Authors: Nanayakkara Janandani , Aydin Gozde , Booth Alison O. , Worsley Anthony , Margerison Claire
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine Victorian primary school parents’ perspectives about a potential school-provided lunch program (LP).

Design/methodology/approach

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted in Victoria, Australia, in 2022 to explore parents’ perceptions regarding the lunch menu, funding source, amount willing to pay, frequency of meals and special dietary needs of a school-provided LP.

Findings

Over half of parents (57% out of 359) said they would allow their child to participate in a school LP, 34% were unsure and only 9% said they would not. The opportunity for hot cooked lunches at school and the perceived convenience for parents were the top two reasons for favouring such a program. Fifty-eight percent were in favour of hybrid-type funding from both the government and parents. The most preferred amount to pay per meal was AUD5-6 (43%), followed by AUD3-4 (25%). Parents expected meals to be healthy and made from whole food and cater to the special dietary and cultural needs of their children. They also expected enough time to be allocated so children could eat and enjoy the meals.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to explore Victorian parents’ perceptions regarding the above aspects of a school-provided LP. The findings suggest that parents are receptive to a school-provided LP; they, however, did have several expectations regarding the menu and time for eating. These findings provide important directions for designing future school-provided LPs at primary schools in Australia.
A nodal discontinuous Galerkin method for wave propagation in coupled acoustic–elastic media
Authors: Li Ruiqi , Zhang Yijie , Liu Naihao , Gao Jinghuai
Published: April 2024

The accurate numerical solution at an acoustic–elastic interface is important for offshore exploration. The solution requires careful implementation for the acoustic–elastic boundary conditions. In this work, we leverage a nodal discontinuous Galerkin method, in which the unstructured uniform triangular meshes are used for the model meshing and an explicit upwind numerical flux derived from the Riemann problem is adopted to handle the boundary conditions at the acoustic–elastic interface. Several numerical results are provided to assess the accuracy and convergence properties of this method. The convergence analysis is carried out in the coupled model with a flat interface, and the accuracy of the proposed method is verified in the curved interface coupled model. Finally, a more complex model with a salt dome, inspired by real geophysical applications, is carried out in this study. The numerical results demonstrate that the proposed nodal discontinuous Galerkin method is effective and accurate for dealing with the coupled acoustic–elastic media with complex geometries.
Endoscopic papillectomy for synchronous adenoma of the major and minor duodenal papilla
Authors: Dong Jin Pei , Zhang Ji Xin , Teng Gui Gen , Niu Hai Xia , Bian Da Peng , Feng Qiu Shi
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Synchronous adenomas of the major and minor duodenal papilla are seldom reported. The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of synchronous major and minor papilla adenomas and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic papillectomy (EP) for the management of the disease.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent endoscopy for synchronous major and minor papilla adenomas from January 1, 2013 to August 31, 2023 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients’ characteristics, clinical manifestations, laboratory, imaging and endoscopic findings were collected.

Results

The nine patients with synchronous major and minor papilla adenomas had an average age of 50.78 ± 10.70 years. The diameter of major and minor papilla adenomas was 12.11 ± 3.41 mm and 6.11 ± 1.05 mm, respectively. Most major papilla adenomas had R0 horizontal margins (n = 8), while R0 vertical margins were achieved in all patients. While minor papilla adenomas were resected with both R0 horizontal and vertical margins in all patients. Post‐EP bleeding was observed in one patient, which was classified as mild. Post‐EP hyperamylasemia and pancreatitis was observed in two and four patients, respectively; the latter consisted of three with mild pancreatitis and one with severe pancreatitis. No perforation was observed. The mean follow‐up duration was 9.22 ± 5.99 months. Histologically confirmed recurrence at the resection site was detected in one patient at 3 months after the procedure.

Conclusions

Synchronous major and minor papilla adenomas may not be as rare as previously speculated. EP may be an effective and safe alternative modality for their management.
Stream and aquifer water exchange in Mississippi Embayment under intensive pumping and extreme climate: A century‐long assessment
Authors: Ouyang Ying , Jin Wei , Leininger Theodor D.
Published: April 2024

The Mississippi Embayment (ME) is one of the fastest groundwater depletion zones in the world. This study investigated stream‐aquifer water exchange in the ME over a 115‐year period (1900 to 2014) under normal and extreme climates (i.e., precipitation increased and decreased by 20%) with and without agricultural pumping for crop irrigation. The average daily water flow from the aquifer to the streams was always greater than vice versa under all climate scenarios. Under normal climate, the average daily water flow from the aquifer to the streams was 2.52 times larger without pumping than with pumping. While the extreme climate had discernable impacts, the groundwater pumping, but not extreme climate, was the major factor for low flows and drying streams in the ME. These findings are essential to groundwater resource management in the region and provide a critical reference for other parts of the world with similar conditions.
Benchmarking kinship estimation tools for ancient genomes using pedigree simulations
Authors: Aktürk Şevval , Mapelli Igor , Güler Merve N. , Gürün Kanat , Katırcıoğlu Büşra , Vural Kıvılcım Başak , Sağlıcan Ekin , Çetin Mehmet , Yaka Reyhan , Sürer Elif , Atağ Gözde , Çokoğlu Sevim Seda , Sevkar Arda , Altınışık N. Ezgi , Koptekin Dilek , Somel Mehmet
Published: April 2024

There is growing interest in uncovering genetic kinship patterns in past societies using low‐coverage palaeogenomes. Here, we benchmark four tools for kinship estimation with such data: lcMLkin, NgsRelate, KIN, and READ, which differ in their input, IBD estimation methods, and statistical approaches. We used pedigree and ancient genome sequence simulations to evaluate these tools when only a limited number (1 to 50 K, with minor allele frequency ≥0.01) of shared SNPs are available. The performance of all four tools was comparable using ≥20 K SNPs. We found that first‐degree related pairs can be accurately classified even with 1 K SNPs, with 85% F1 scores using READ and 96% using NgsRelate or lcMLkin. Distinguishing third‐degree relatives from unrelated pairs or second‐degree relatives was also possible with high accuracy (F1 > 90%) with 5 K SNPs using NgsRelate and lcMLkin, while READ and KIN showed lower success (69 and 79% respectively). Meanwhile, noise in population allele frequencies and inbreeding (first‐cousin mating) led to deviations in kinship coefficients, with different sensitivities across tools. We conclude that using multiple tools in parallel might be an effective approach to achieve robust estimates on ultra‐low‐coverage genomes.
Romania: Political Developments and Data in 2023
Authors: STAN LAVINIA , ZAHARIA RAZVAN
Published: April 2024

In 2023, the National Liberal Party prime minister was replaced with a Social Democratic Party prime minister, pursuant to an understanding drafted by the two ruling parties in 2021. As elections were scheduled for 2024, the government adopted populist measures benefiting selected voters. Opinion polls suggested the rise of right‐wing parties. Prominent politicians and government officials were involved in corruption scandals.
Sleep patterns are associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in nine‐year‐old Swedish children
Authors: Nilsson Ellinor , Delisle Nyström Christine , Migueles Jairo H. , Baurén Hanna , Marin‐Jimenez Nuria , Henström Maria , Torres López Lucía V. , Löf Marie
Published: April 2024

Aim

Sleep duration and bedtime may play a role in children's cardiometabolic health, but research is lacking. This study examined associations between sleep patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors in Swedish nine‐year‐olds.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from three studies, where identical outcome measures were conducted in 411 nine‐year‐olds, 51% boys, between 2016 and 2020. Sleep was assessed with wrist‐worn accelerometers and sleep journals. Children were grouped based on meeting the sleep guidelines of 9–11 h and going to bed early or late based on the median bedtime. Analysis of covariance was used to examine associations between sleep patterns and cardiometabolic risk factors.

Results

Meeting sleep guidelines and going to bed early were associated with lower metabolic syndrome score (−0.15 vs. 0.42, p = 0.029), insulin resistance (0.30 vs. 0.60, p = 0.025) and insulin levels (6.80 vs. 8.87 mIU/L, p = 0.034), compared with their peers who did not meet the guidelines and went to bed later. When adjusting for total sleep time, analyses still showed associations with the metabolic syndrome score (−0.19 vs. 0.50, p = 0.011).

Conclusion

The findings indicate that good sleep patterns could help mediate positive overall cardiometabolic health in children.
Market penalty, collective punishment, and buffering: A study on the insurance‐like effect of CSR in environmental violations
Authors: Sun Weizhang , Lu Yi , Yang Jinfeng , Xue Zhizhong , Wang Qingwen
Published: April 2024

While the existing literature finds that corporate social responsibility (CSR) can provide insurance‐like protection in negative events, it remains unclear how CSR buffers firms from market penalties for negative events. To address this concern, we conduct event studies and regressions using data from the environmental violations by Chinese publicly traded companies and their interlocked companies from 2009 to 2021. Our results show that the market reacts negatively to environmental violations. The market penalty diffuses through director networks and leads to the collective punishment of interlocked firms. CSR has an insurance‐like effect that buffers market penalties and collective punishment for environmental violations. Long‐term CSR has a stronger insurance‐like effect than short‐term CSR. Additionally, the insurance‐like effect of CSR still exists during repeated environmental violation events. This paper contributes to the literature on the insurance‐like effect of CSR and provides a reference for corporate CSR practice and investors' CSR decisions.
Exploring the impact of gamification on students’ academic performance: A comprehensive meta‐analysis of studies from the year 2008 to 2023
Authors: Zeng Jiyuan , Sun Daner , Looi Chee‐Kit , Fan Andy Chun Wai
Published: April 2024

Gamification, characterized by the integration of game design elements into non‐game environments, has gained popularity in classrooms due to its potential for increased engagement and enjoyment compared to traditional lecture‐based teaching methods. While students generally exhibit positive attitudes towards gamification, its impact on academic achievement remains a subject of debate. This study employed a meta‐analysis approach to examine the overall influence of gamification on students' academic performance. The sample comprised 22 experimental studies conducted between 2008 and 2023, comparing the effects of gamified and non‐gamified classes. Utilizing a random effects model, the results revealed a moderately positive effect of gamification on student academic performance (Hedges's g = 0.782, p < 0.05). The paper further discussed the outcomes of various moderator analyses, providing valuable insights into the selection and utilization of game design elements, as well as considerations specific to different educational stages.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Most research has consistently demonstrated that gamification has a positive impact on students' achievement.

The current state of review research is not sufficiently comprehensive.

There is a lack of meta‐analyses exploring the diverse impacts of gamification.

What this paper adds

The effect of factors such as geographical regions, education levels, learning environments, subjects and game elements on gamification was examined.

The study revealed a significant and positive impact of gamification on students' achievement across various factors, including geographical regions, education levels, learning environments, subjects and game elements.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Gamification represents a prudent choice for teachers seeking to enhance students' achievement.

Teachers are suggested to adopt and employ appropriate game elements in their instructional approaches.

Future research could focus on investigating the impact of feedback as a game element in teaching and learning.
A social psychology of climate change: Progress and promise
Authors: Clayton Susan
Published: April 2024

Social psychologists have conducted research relevant to environmental problems for many decades. However, the climate crisis presents a new problem with distinctive aspects and distinctive urgency. This paper reviews some of the principal ways in which social psychological research and theory have approached the topic, looking at perceptions, behaviour, and impacts linked to climate change. Each of these areas is becoming more sophisticated in acknowledging the diversity of experience among groups that vary in demographics and social roles. I close by identifying three important facets for future research: a focus on social justice, an effort to participate in interdisciplinary efforts, and an emphasis on maximizing our impact.
Is self‐awareness necessary to have a theory of mind?
Authors: Calmette Tony , Meunier Hélène
Published: April 2024

Forty years ago, Gallup proposed that theory of mind presupposes self‐awareness. Following Humphrey, his hypothesis was that individuals can infer the mental states of others thanks to the ability to monitor their own mental states in similar circumstances. Since then, advances in several disciplines, such as comparative and developmental psychology, have provided empirical evidence to test Gallup's hypothesis. Herein, we review and discuss this evidence.
“She's so pretty”: The development of valuing personal attractiveness among young children
Authors: Halim May Ling D. , Russo Lyric N. , Echave Kaelyn N. , Tawa Sachiko , Sakamoto Dylan J. , Portillo Miguel A.
Published: April 2024

The current study sought to understand gender differences in how much children value personal attractiveness, whether age is associated with valuing personal attractiveness, and the role of gender identity development. Three‐ to five‐year‐olds (N = 170; 89 girls, 81 boys, 0 other genders; primarily Latiné, multiethnic, and non‐Hispanic White American) were recruited from child centers across the Los Angeles and Orange County metropolitan areas. Across several indicators (e.g., self‐report, preference for appearance‐related female‐typed occupations and fancy gender‐typed outfits, memory for fancy gender‐typed clothing, and spontaneous reasons for liking a media character), girls highly valued personal attractiveness. Girls also valued personal attractiveness and tied their gender to personal attractiveness to a greater extent than boys. We discuss implications for later well‐being and health.
Unfolding via Mesh Approximation using Surface Flows
Authors: Zawallich Lars , Pajarola Renato
Published: April 2024

Manufacturing a 3D object by folding from a 2D material is typically done in four steps: 3D surface approximation, unfolding the surface into a plane, printing and cutting the outline of the unfolded shape, and refolding it to a 3D object. Usually, these steps are treated separately from each other. In this work we jointly address the first two pipeline steps by allowing the 3D representation to smoothly change while unfolding. This way, we increase the chances to overcome possible ununfoldability issues. To join the two pipeline steps, our work proposes and combines different surface flows with a Tabu Unfolder. We empirically investigate the effects that different surface flows have on the performance as well as on the quality of the unfoldings. Additionally, we demonstrate the ability to solve cases by approximation which comparable algorithms either have to segment or can not solve at all.
Freeform Shape Fabrication by Kerfing Stiff Materials
Authors: Speetzen N. , Kobbelt L.
Published: April 2024

Fast, flexible, and cost efficient production of 3D models from 2D material sheets is a key component in digital fabrication and prototyping. In order to achieve high quality approximations of freeform shapes, a common set of methods aim to produce bendable 2D cutouts that are then assembled. So far bent surfaces are achieved automatically by computing developable patches of the input surface, e.g. in the context of papercraft. For stiff materials such as medium‐density fibreboard (MDF) or plywood, the 2D cutouts require the application of additional cutting patterns (“kerfing”) to make them bendable. Such kerf patterns are commonly constructed with considerable user input, e.g. in architectural design. We propose a fully automatic method that produces kerfed cutouts suitable for the assembly of freeform shapes from stiff material sheets. By exploring the degrees of freedom emerging from the choice of bending directions, the creation of box joints at the patch boundaries as well as the application of kerf cuts with adaptive density, our method is able to achieve a high quality approximation of the input.
Physically‐based analytical erosion for fast terrain generation
Authors: Tzathas Petros , Gailleton Boris , Steer Philippe , Cordonnier Guillaume
Published: April 2024

Terrain generation methods have long been divided between procedural and physically‐based. Procedural methods build upon the fast evaluation of a mathematical function but suffer from a lack of geological consistency, while physically‐based simulation enforces this consistency at the cost of thousands of iterations unraveling the history of the landscape. In particular, the simulation of the competition between tectonic uplift and fluvial erosion expressed by the stream power law raised recent interest in computer graphics as this allows the generation and control of consistent large‐scale mountain ranges, albeit at the cost of a lengthy simulation. In this paper, we explore the analytical solutions of the stream power law and propose a method that is both physically‐based and procedural, allowing fast and consistent large‐scale terrain generation. In our approach, time is no longer the stopping criterion of an iterative process but acts as the parameter of a mathematical function, a slider that controls the aging of the input terrain from a subtle erosion to the complete replacement by a fully formed mountain range. While analytical solutions have been proposed by the geomorphology community for the 1D case, extending them to a 2D heightmap proves challenging. We propose an efficient implementation of the analytical solutions with a multigrid accelerated iterative process and solutions to incorporate landslides and hillslope processes – two erosion factors that complement the stream power law.
Volcanic Skies: coupling explosive eruptions with atmospheric simulation to create consistent skyscapes
Authors: Pretorius P. C. , Gain J. , Lastic M. , Cordonnier G. , Chen J. , Rohmer D. , Cani M.‐P.
Published: April 2024

Explosive volcanic eruptions rank among the most terrifying natural phenomena, and are thus frequently depicted in films, games, and other media, usually with a bespoke once‐off solution. In this paper, we introduce the first general‐purpose model for bi‐directional interaction between the atmosphere and a volcano plume. In line with recent interactive volcano models, we approximate the plume dynamics with Lagrangian disks and spheres and the atmosphere with sparse layers of 2D Eulerian grids, enabling us to focus on the transfer of physical quantities such as temperature, ash, moisture, and wind velocity between these sub‐models. We subsequently generate volumetric animations by noise‐based procedural upsampling keyed to aspects of advection, convection, moisture, and ash content to generate a fully‐realized volcanic skyscape. Our model captures most of the visually salient features emerging from volcano‐sky interaction, such as windswept plumes, enmeshed cap, bell and skirt clouds, shockwave effects, ash rain, and sheathes of lightning visible in the dark.