bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subdivision Schemes Based on Weighted Local Polynomial Regression: A New Technique for the Convergence Analysis
Authors: López-Ureña Sergio , Yáñez Dionisio F.
Published: May 2024

The generation of curves and surfaces from given data is a well-known problem in Computer-Aided Design that can be approached using subdivision schemes. They are powerful tools that allow obtaining new data from the initial one by means of simple calculations. However, in some applications, the collected data are given with noise and most of schemes are not adequate to process them. In this paper, we present new families of binary univariate linear subdivision schemes using weighted local polynomial regression which are suitable for noisy data. We study their properties, such as convergence, monotonicity, polynomial reproduction and approximation and denoising capabilities. We establish conditions that connect the weight function with two essential properties: noise elimination and approximation capability. We propose a multi-objective optimization problem for improving these two capabilities and conclude that only some weight functions are Pareto optimal. For the convergence study, we develop some new theoretical results. Finally, some examples are presented to confirm the proven properties.
Can nudging with descriptive norms help internal auditors stop runaway information systems projects?
Authors: Nuijten Arno L. P. , Verbraak-Kolevska Violeta , Keil Mark
Published: May 2024

Although internal auditors are expected to play an important role in corporate governance, they are not always effective in bringing their message to management’s attention when they observe that a risky course of action is being taken that could harm the organization. When information systems projects go awry, for example, internal auditors often struggle to get managers to listen to their warnings. Instead, managers may turn a deaf ear to the auditor’s warnings. In this paper, we build on the idea that internal auditors can follow an approach that combines two elements to reduce this so-called deaf effect: (1) the auditor can apply communication techniques to more effectively deliver the message, and (2) the internal auditor can develop a relationship with the manager such that the auditor is viewed as a ‘partner’ rather than an ‘opponent.’

Following a mixed method approach, we examined how ‘nudging with a descriptive norm’ as a communication technique could help internal auditors to reduce the deaf effect and how this can be understood in the context of the auditor-manager relationship (AMR). We conducted two experiments showing consistent evidence that both (1) nudging with a descriptive norm and (2) AMR, had significant indirect effects on the deaf effect that were mediated through perceived social norms. A complementary series of ten interviews with Chief Audit Executives shed further light on how internal auditors could apply ‘nudging with a descriptive norm’ as a communication technique, and what should be considered, including the auditor-manager relationship. Implications for both internal audit research and practice are discussed.
Recent advances in the therapeutic applications of selenium nanoparticles
Authors: Ansari Jeba Ajgar , Malik Jonaid Ahmad , Ahmed Sakeel , Manzoor Muntaha , Ahemad Nafees , Anwar Sirajudheen
Published: May 2024

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are an appealing carrier for the targeted delivery. The selenium nanoparticles are gaining global attention because of the potential therapeutic applications in several diseases e.g., rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), asthma, liver, and various autoimmune disorders like psoriasis, cancer, diabetes, and a variety of infectious diseases. Despite the fact still there is no recent literature that summarises the therapeutic applications of SeNPs. There are some challenges that need to be addressed like finding targets for SeNPs in various diseases, and the various functionalization techniques utilized to increase SeNP’s stability while facilitating wide drug-loaded SeNP distribution to tumor areas and preventing off-target impacts need to focus on understanding more about the therapeutic aspects for better understanding the science behind it. Keeping that in mind we have focused on this gap and try to summarize all recent key targeted therapies for SeNPs in cancer treatment and the numerous functionalization strategies. We have also focused on recent advancements in SeNP functionalization methodologies and mechanisms for biomedical applications, particularly in anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infection therapeutics. Based on our observation we found that SeNPs could potentially be useful in suppressing viral epidemics, like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in complement to their antibacterial and antiparasitic uses. SeNPs are significant nanoplatforms with numerous desirable properties for clinical translation.

Graphical Abstract
Action unit intensity regression for facial MoCap aimed towards digital humans
Authors: Vilchis Carlos , Mendez-Ruiz Mauricio , Perez-Guerrero Carmina , Gonzalez-Mendoza Miguel
Published: May 2024

Due to the increasing demand for virtual avatars, there has been a recent growth in the research and development of frameworks for realistic digital humans, which create a demand for realistic and adaptable facial motion capture systems. Most frameworks belong to private companies or represent high investments, which is why the creation of democratized solutions is relevant for the growth of digital human content creation. This research work proposes a facial motion capture framework for digital humans with the use of machine learning for facial codification intensity regression. The main focus is to use coded face movement intensities to generate realistic expressions on a digital human. The ablation studies performed on the regression models show that Neural Networks, using Histogram of Oriented Gradients as features, and with person-specific normalization, present overall better performance against other methods in the literature. With an RMSE of 0.052, the proposed framework offers reliable results that can be rendered in the face of a MetaHuman.
Alimentary Images as Metaphor of Education
Authors: Vydra Anton
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to explore how the history of images and conceptual metaphors resulting from them that we use in educational reflections are formed regardless of if they are problematized in practical life. Insight into history shows how these images are shaped not only by our own experiences and by the context of our lives, but also by the history of such images, which are unconsciously inscribed in our metaphorical speech through so called “residues of meaning”. The paper clarifies this, using the examples of alimentary images, that are a transition from nutrix (wet nurse) to nutritor (teacher). The text offers selected examples of consideration of alimentary images. These are among the most primitive and therefore the deepest images of human experience. This history is an example of a cultural line that goes from ancient educational imagination to the more recent forms of such images, even if always with different accents.
Toxic Effects of Pozzolanic Cement on Egg, Alevine, Fry and Juvenile Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) Individuals and Some Water Quality Parameters
Authors: Er Akif , Minaz Mert , Kayış Şevki
Published: May 2024

Current study aims to ascertain the harmful effects of pozzolanic cement (PC) on water quality and several indicators of aquatic life. Also, the effects of PC on different life stages of rainbow trout were investigated. The PC caused an increase in various water quality parameters including pH, suspended particles, turbidity, and conductivity. In rainbow trout, no significant differences were observed between control and experimental groups in terms of enzyme parameters. Also, this study revealed that the PC has impact on various hematological parameters. The PC was linked to histological changes in gills, DNA migration was observed in the rainbow trout exposed to PC. After 24 h, LC50 values of rainbow trout exposed to PC were 499.06, 324.66, and 361.26 mg/L for egg, alevine, and fry respectively. There was adverse relation between temperature and LC50. Consequently, cement pollution in the water and different stages of rainbow trout causes various negative effects.
Charting the Cannabis plant chemical space with computational metabolomics
Authors: Myoli Akhona , Choene Mpho , Kappo Abidemi Paul , Madala Ntakadzeni Edwin , van der Hooft Justin J. J. , Tugizimana Fidele
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The chemical classification of Cannabis is typically confined to the cannabinoid content, whilst Cannabis encompasses diverse chemical classes that vary in abundance among all its varieties. Hence, neglecting other chemical classes within Cannabis strains results in a restricted and biased comprehension of elements that may contribute to chemical intricacy and the resultant medicinal qualities of the plant.

Objectives

Thus, herein, we report a computational metabolomics study to elucidate the Cannabis metabolic map beyond the cannabinoids.

Methods

Mass spectrometry-based computational tools were used to mine and evaluate the methanolic leaf and flower extracts of two Cannabis cultivars: Amnesia haze (AMNH) and Royal dutch cheese (RDC).

Results

The results revealed the presence of different chemical compound classes including cannabinoids, but extending it to flavonoids and phospholipids at varying distributions across the cultivar plant tissues, where the phenylpropnoid superclass was more abundant in the leaves than in the flowers. Therefore, the two cultivars were differentiated based on the overall chemical content of their plant tissues where AMNH was observed to be more dominant in the flavonoid content while RDC was more dominant in the lipid-like molecules. Additionally, in silico molecular docking studies in combination with biological assay studies indicated the potentially differing anti-cancer properties of the two cultivars resulting from the elucidated chemical profiles.

Conclusion

These findings highlight distinctive chemical profiles beyond cannabinoids in Cannabis strains. This novel mapping of the metabolomic landscape of Cannabis provides actionable insights into plant biochemistry and justifies selecting certain varieties for medicinal use.
Effects of voluntary and forced physical exercise on the retinal health of aging Wistar rats
Authors: Szilágyi Anna , Takács Barbara , Szekeres Réka , Tarjányi Vera , Nagy Dávid , Priksz Dániel , Bombicz Mariann , Kiss Rita , Szabó Adrienn Mónika , Lehoczki Andrea , Gesztelyi Rudolf , Juhász Béla , Szilvássy Zoltán , Varga Balázs
Published: May 2024

Aging is accompanied by an increased prevalence of degenerative conditions, including those affecting ocular health, which significantly impact quality of life and increase the burden on healthcare systems. Among these, retinal aging is of particular concern due to its direct link to vision impairment, a leading cause of disability in the elderly. Vision loss in the aging population is associated with heightened risks of cognitive decline, social isolation, and morbidity. This study addresses the critical gap in our understanding of modifiable lifestyle factors, such as physical exercise, that may mitigate retinal aging and its related pathologies. We investigated the effects of different exercise regimens—voluntary (recreational-type) and forced (high-intensity)—on the retinal health of aging Wistar rats (18-month-old), serving as a model for studying the translational potential of exercise interventions in humans. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a young control (3-month-old) for baseline comparison, an aged sedentary control, an aged group engaging in voluntary exercise via a running wheel in their cage, and an aged group subjected to forced exercise on a treadmill for six sessions of 20 min each per week. After a 6-month experimental period, we assessed retinal function via electroretinography (ERG), measured retinal thickness histologically, and analyzed protein expression changes relevant to oxidative stress, inflammation, and anti-aging mechanisms. Our findings reveal that voluntary exercise positively impacts retinal function and morphology, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation markers while enhancing anti-aging protein expression. In contrast, forced exercise showed diminished benefits. These insights underscore the importance of exercise intensity and preference in preserving retinal health during aging. The study highlights the potential of recreational physical activity as a non-invasive strategy to counteract retinal aging, advocating for further research into exercise regimens as preventative therapies for age-related ocular degenerations.
Avidity maturation of humoral response following primary and booster doses of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine among nursing home residents and healthcare workers
Authors: Oyebanji Oladayo A. , Sundheimer Nicholas , Ragavapuram Vaishnavi , Wilson Brigid M. , Abul Yasin , Gravenstein Stefan , Bosch Jürgen , King Christopher L. , Canaday David H.
Published: May 2024

Infections, despite vaccination, can be clinically consequential for frail nursing home residents (NHR). Poor vaccine-induced antibody quality may add risk for such subsequent infections and more severe disease. We assessed antibody binding avidity, as a surrogate for antibody quality, among NHR and healthcare workers (HCW). We longitudinally sampled 112 NHR and 52 HCWs who received the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine after each dose up to the Wuhan-BA.4/5-based Omicron bivalent boosters. We quantified anti-spike, anti-receptor binding domain (RBD), and avidity levels to the ancestral Wuhan, Delta, and Omicron BA.1 & 4/5 strains. The primary vaccination series produced substantial anti-spike and RBD levels which were low in avidity against all strains tested. Antibody avidity progressively increased in the 6–8 months that followed. Avidity significantly increased after the 1st booster but not for subsequent boosters. This study underscores the importance of booster vaccination among NHR and HCWs. The 1st booster dose increases avidity, increasing vaccine-induced functional antibody. The higher cross-reactivity of higher avidity antibodies to other SARS-CoV-2 strains should translate to better protection from ever-evolving strains. Higher avidities may help explain how the vaccine’s protective effects persist despite waning antibody titers after each vaccine dose.
Genetic Variations in EIF2AK3 are Associated with Neurocognitive Impairment in People Living with HIV
Authors: Akay-Espinoza Cagla , Newton Sarah E.B. , Dombroski Beth A. , Kallianpur Asha , Bharti Ajay , Franklin Donald R. , Schellenberg Gerard D. , Heaton Robert K. , Grant Igor , Ellis Ronald J. , Letendre Scott L. , Jordan-Sciutto Kelly L.
Published: May 2024

Based on emerging evidence on the role for specific single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) in EIF2AK3 encoding the integrated stress response kinase PERK, in neurodegeneration, we assessed the association of EIF2AK3 SNVs with neurocognitive performance in people with HIV (PWH) using a candidate gene approach. This retrospective study included the CHARTER cohort participants, excluding those with severe neuropsychiatric comorbidities. Genome-wide data previously obtained for 1047 participants and targeted sequencing of 992 participants with available genomic DNA were utilized to interrogate the association of three noncoding and three coding EIF2AK3 SNVs with the continuous global deficit score (GDS) and global neurocognitive impairment (NCI; GDS ≥ 0.5) using univariable and multivariable methods, with demographic, disease-associated, and treatment characteristics as covariates. The cohort characteristics were as follows: median age, 43.1 years; females, 22.8%; European ancestry, 41%; median CD4 + T cell counts, 175/µL (nadir) and 428/µL (current). At first assessment, 70.5% used ART and 68.3% of these had plasma HIV RNA levels ≤ 200 copies/mL. All three noncoding EIF2AK3 SNVs were associated with GDS and NCI (all p < 0.05). Additionally, 30.9%, 30.9%, and 41.2% of participants had at least one risk allele for the coding SNVs rs1805165 (G), rs867529 (G), and rs13045 (A), respectively. Homozygosity for all three coding SNVs was associated with significantly worse GDS (p < 0.001) and more NCI (p < 0.001). By multivariable analysis, the rs13045 A risk allele, current ART use, and Beck Depression Inventory-II value > 13 were independently associated with GDS and NCI (p < 0.001) whereas the other two coding SNVs did not significantly correlate with GDS or NCI after including rs13045 in the model. The coding EIF2AK3 SNVs were associated with worse performance in executive functioning, motor functioning, learning, and verbal fluency. Coding and non-coding SNVs of EIF2AK3 were associated with global NC and domain-specific performance. The effects were small-to-medium in size but present in multivariable analyses, raising the possibility of specific SNVs in EIF2AK3 as an important component of genetic vulnerability to neurocognitive complications in PWH.

Graphical Abstract
Taxonomic Status of Diplectanum robustitubum Wu & Li, 2003 (Monogenoidea: Diplectanidae) from the Purple-Spotted Bigeye Priacanthus tayenus (Priacanthidae) and the Description of Platycephalotrema parile n. sp. (Monogenoidea: Dactylogyridae) from the Bartail Flathead Platycephalus indicus (Platycephalidae), in the Arabian Gulf
Authors: Kritsky Delane C. , Al-Darwesh Ali Adnan , Ali Atheer H.
Published: May 2024

Purple-spotted bigeyes Priacanthus tayenus Richardson (Priacanthidae) and bartail flathead Platycephalus indicus (Linnaeus) (Platycephalidae) were collected from the Arabian Gulf and examined for species of Monogenoidea (Polyonchoinea) from February to December 2020. Diplectanum robustitubum Wu & Li, 2003 and an undescribed species of Platycephalotrema Kritsky & Nitta, 2019 were recovered from the gill lamellae of these hosts, respectively. Diplectanum robustitubum from Iraq was redescribed and transferred to Oliveriplectanum Domingues & Boeger, 2008 (Diplectanidae) as Oliveriplectanum robustitubum (Wu & Li, 2003) n. comb. Platycephalotrema parile n. sp. (Dactylogyridae) from Iraq and Kuwait was described and differentiated from the similar species, Haliotrema indicum Tripathi, 1959, Platycephalotrema ogawai Kritsky & Nitta, 2019, and Platycephalotrema platycephali (Yin & Sproston, 1948) Kritsky & Nitta, 2019, based primarily on the comparative morphologies of the vaginal sclerites. Haliotrema indicum was transferred to Platycephalotrema as Platycephalotrema indicum (Tripathi, 1959) n. comb. and Haliotrema swatowense Yao, Wang, Xia, & Chen, 1998 was considered a junior subjective synonym of P. indicum. The finding of O. robustitubum in the Arabian Gulf represents a new geographic record for the species.

Background

The present paper represents the third installment concerning the monogenoids collected during surveys to explore their diversity on the marine and freshwater fishes of Iraq. Previous installments on the monogenoids emanating from the surveys included the dactylogyrid and gyrodactylid species parasitizing mugilid fishes.

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to further document the diversity of monogenoids infecting the fishes of Iraq.

Methods

Marine fishes were necropsied for parasites, and standard procedures for collecting, mounting, drawing, and measuring of monogenoids were employed.

Results

Oliveriplectanum robustitubum n. comb. (Diplectanidae) and Platycephalotrema parile n. sp. (Dactylogyridae) were collected. The occurrence of O. robustitubum in the Arabian Gulf represented a new locality record for the species.

Conclusion

The recorded presence of O. robustitubum and P. parile n. sp. suggests that the diversity of monogenoids in Iraq is under estimated in the literature.
Patient Satisfaction and Experience with Same-Day Discharge After Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Mixed-Methods study
Authors: Kleipool Suzanne C. , Willinge Gijs J. A. , Mathijssen Elke G. E. , Romijnders Kim A. G. J. , de Castro Steve M. M. , Marsman Hendrik A. , van Rutte Pim W. J. , van Veen Ruben N.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Same-day discharge (SDD) after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a safe and effective healthcare pathway. However, there is limited understanding of the patient perspective on SDD. The aim of this study was to explore patient satisfaction and experience with SDD after RYGB.

Methods

A mixed-methods study with a concurrent design was conducted in a Dutch teaching hospital, using questionnaires and interviews. Patients who underwent RYGB and were discharged on the day of the surgery completed four questionnaires of the BODY-Q (satisfaction with the surgeon, satisfaction with the medical team, satisfaction with the office staff, and satisfaction with information provision) ± 4 months postoperative. The results of the questionnaires were compared with pre-existing data from a cohort of patients who stayed overnight after surgery (i.e., control group). A subset of patients was individually interviewed for an in-depth understanding of the patient perspective on SDD.

Results

In the questionnaires, median scores for the control group (n = 158) versus the present group of patients (n = 51) were as follows: 92/100 vs. 92/100 (p = 0.331) for the surgeon, 100/100 vs. 92/100 (p = 0.775) for the medical team, 100/100 vs. 100/100 (p = 0.616) for the office staff, and 90/100 vs. 73/100 (p = 0.015) for information provision. Interviews with 14 patients revealed seven themes, describing high satisfaction, along with several points of interest.

Conclusions

Patient satisfaction with SDD after RYGB is high, although information provision regarding the day of surgery could be improved. However, not every medically eligible patient might be suitable for this healthcare pathway, as responsibilities are shifted.

Graphical Abstract
Transplantation of Wnt5a-modified Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promotes Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury via the PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Yang Haimei , Liang Chaolun , Luo Junhua , Liu Xiuzhen , Wang Wanshun , Zheng Kunrui , Luo Dan , Hou Yu , Guo Da , Lin Dingkun , Zheng Xiasheng , Li Xing
Published: May 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe neurological condition that can lead to paralysis or even death. This study explored the potential benefits of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation for repairing SCI. BMSCs also differentiate into astrocytes within damaged spinal cord tissues hindering the cell transplantation efficacy, therefore it is crucial to enhance their neuronal differentiation rate to facilitate spinal cord repair. Wnt5a, an upstream protein in the non-classical Wnt signaling pathway, has been implicated in stem cell migration, differentiation, and neurite formation but its role in the neuronal differentiation of BMSCs remains unclear. Thus, this study investigated the role and underlying mechanisms of Wnt5a in promoting neuronal differentiation of BMSCs both in vivo and in vitro. Wnt5a enhanced neuronal differentiation of BMSCs in vitro while reducing astrocyte differentiation. Additionally, high-throughput RNA sequencing revealed a correlation between Wnt5a and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B(AKT) signaling, which was confirmed by the use of the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 to reverse the effects of Wnt5a on BMSC neuronal differentiation. Furthermore, transplantation of Wnt5a-modified BMSCs into SCI rats effectively improved the histomorphology (Hematoxylin and eosin [H&E], Nissl and Luxol Fast Blue [LFB] staining), motor function scores (Footprint test and Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan [BBB]scores)and promoted neuron production, axonal formation, and remodeling of myelin sheaths (microtubule associated protein-2 [MAP-2], growth-associated protein 43 [GAP43], myelin basic protein [MBP]), while reducing astrocyte production (glial fibrillary acidic protein [GFAP]). Therefore, targeting the Wnt5a/PI3K/AKT pathway could enhance BMSC transplantation for SCI treatment.
Ruxolitinib in steroid-refractory acute graft-vs-host disease: Japanese subgroup analysis of the randomized REACH2 trial
Authors: Teshima Takanori , Onishi Yasushi , Kato Koji , Taniguchi Shuichi , Miyamura Koichi , Fukushima Kentaro , Kato Jun , Ishikawa Takayuki , Doki Noriko , Nakamae Hirohisa , Maeda Yoshinobu , Inamoto Yoshihiro , Okada Masaya , Maki Akio , Shimada Fumika , Tajima Takeshi , Wroclawska Monika , Zeiser Robert , Onizuka Makoto
Published: May 2024

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) is a major complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in Japan and other countries. Nearly one-third of patients do not respond to standard systemic steroid therapy and no standard second-line treatment has been established in Japan. We report efficacy and safety findings of ruxolitinib versus best available therapy (BAT) from a subgroup analysis of the international, phase 3 REACH2 study in Japanese patients with steroid-refractory aGvHD. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR) at day 28. Overall, 9 patients received ruxolitinib and 21 received BAT. The ORR at day 28 (88.9% vs 52.4%) and durable ORR at day 56 (66.7% vs 28.6%) were higher with ruxolitinib versus BAT. The estimated cumulative incidence of loss of response at 6 months was 12.5% with ruxolitinib and 18.2% with BAT. The median failure-free survival was longer with ruxolitinib versus BAT (2.73 vs 1.25 months). The most common adverse events up to day 28 in the ruxolitinib and BAT groups were anemia (55.6% vs 19.0%) and thrombocytopenia (44.4% vs 4.8%, respectively). Ruxolitinib showed better efficacy outcomes and a consistent safety profile compared with BAT in the Japanese subgroup, and the findings were consistent with overall study results.
Advancing Aquatic Food Safety Detection Using Highly Sensitive Graphene Oxide and Reduced Graphene Oxide (GO/r-GO) Fluorescent Sensors
Authors: Chen Mei-Xi , Cheng Jun-Hu , Ma Ji , Sun Da-Wen
Published: May 2024

With the increasing demand for aquatic products, the requirement for the safety detection of aquatic products is also increasing. In the past decade, graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (r-GO) have become hot topics in many fields due to their special physical and chemical properties. With their excellent conductivity, a variety of electrochemical sensors have been developed in the fields of biology, food and chemistry. However, the unique optical properties of GO/r-GO have not yet been widely utilized. With the deepening of research, the fluorescence quenching performance of GO/r-GO has been proven to have excellent potential for building fluorescent sensors, and GO/r-GO fluorescent sensors have thus become an inevitable trend in sensor development. This review summarizes the main preparation methods of GO/r-GO and the principles of GO/r-GO fluorescent sensors comprehensively. Additionally, recent advances in utilizing GO/r-GO fluorescent sensors to detect aquatic food are discussed, including the application for the detection of harmful chemicals, microorganisms, and endogenous substances in aquatic products, such as pesticides, antibiotics and heavy metals. It is hoped that this review will help accelerate the progress in the field of analysis, and promote the establishment of an aquatic food supervision system.
The impact of resilience acquisition on students transitioning to university during covid-19: a follow up study with Myanmar students
Authors: Gomersall Steve , Floyd Alan
Published: May 2024

In our previous study (Gomersall & Floyd, in Asia Pacific Education Review 24:447–459, 2022), we reported that a group of Myanmar students, who studied online for their high school qualifications during COVID-19, reported drawing on a range of factors to enable them to overcome the adversity and continue their education. Moreover, they claimed that they had benefited from the online experience and were ready to progress to university. This study returns one year later to interview some of the original participants to see if their perceptions became reality. In addition, a group of students from the 2020 cohort are also interviewed so that a comparison can be made between the last group of students who studied ‘normally’ before COVID-19, and those who experienced online learning for the first time. This study addresses a gap in the literature by examining student perspectives of the ways in which they thrived as a result of digitally enhanced learning. We conclude that learning online enabled students to develop personally, enhance their digital skills, and acquire skills and knowledge that could be utilised again in the future. Moreover, those who studied online in both high school and university found the process of commencing online studies at university easier, which supports the tentative conclusion that even in low resource settings, it would be beneficial for schools to explore integrating more digital skills into the classroom.
Rare origin of the sinoatrial node artery: an anatomic report and a brief review of the literature
Authors: Pinto Filipe F. , Madeira M. Dulce , Pereira Pedro A.
Published: May 2024

Several studies reported anatomical variations in the sinoatrial node artery (SANa). Here, we report a rare variation in the origin of the SANa on a human adult male cadaver. During dissection, we identified the SANa originating from a large atrial branch of the right coronary artery (RCA). This branch originates at the level of the inferior border of the heart and courses upwards. The initial part of this vessel is tortuous, and then it follows a straight path parallel to the RCA along the anterior surface of the right atrium. After this part, the artery curves posteriorly and to the left until it reaches the lower border of the right auricle, where it closely approaches the RCA. Finally, the artery runs posteriorly and to the right to follow a course along the medial wall of the right auricle and right atrium to reach a location close to the region of the junction of the superior vena cava and right atrium, where it follows its path buried in the myocardium. After perforating the myocardium, this vessel gives rise to branches that are distributed to both atria in addition to the SANa. The SANa runs to the sinoatrial node in a precaval (anterior to the superior vena cava) course. We also tried to characterize the vessels radiologically. The knowledge of the anatomical variations of the SANa is of the utmost importance for cardiologists and heart surgeons to better understand cardiac disease and accurately plan and execute cardiac interventions and surgical procedures.
Gap solitons in optical fibers with the concatenation model
Authors: Alngar Mohamed E. M. , Shohib Reham. M. A. , Biswas Anjan , Yildirim Yakup , Moshokoa Seithuti P. , Dakova Anelia , Alshomrani Ali Saleh
Published: May 2024

This paper recovers gap solitons from Bragg gratings of the concatenation model. The new mapping method recovers a full spectrum of optical solitons. The parameter constraints for the existence of such solitons are enumerated.
Insights from elite soccer players: understanding the downward spiral and the complex dynamics of crises
Authors: Jekauc Darko , Vrancic Damir , Fritsch Julian
Published: May 2024

This study focused on identifying the factors that lead to prolonged crises in soccer teams and how players view the development of these crises. A qualitative analysis of interviews with six current and three former professional soccer players revealed that the failure to meet team expectations is often the starting point of crises, which can impact both individual and team levels. The issues at the individual level include anxiety, pressure, lack of self-confidence, somatic manifestations, negative body language, loss of motivation, rumination, and self-focus. At the team level, conflicts arise, the team atmosphere deteriorates, which is reflected in impaired communication and lack of cohesion. During soccer matches, on-field behavior frequently evolves into a more defensive mindset and a desire to avoid mistakes and responsibility, resulting in lower team performance. Poor results usually ensue, perpetuating and even intensifying the crisis process which players refer to as a vicious circle, negative spiral, or vortex. Societal factors such as media landscape, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, club structures, or fans, and individual factors such as crisis experiences, players’ resilience, family cohesion, or support from friends affect the development of crises. The study’s insights illustrate the negative impacts of pressure on the team’s emotional state and social interaction, leading to a downward spiral, and thus, reinforcing the crisis process. The study concludes that crisis management training and support should focus on managing expectations, promoting positive affective states, and supporting healthy motivation among team members, and should expand coaches’ crisis competency training.
Empathy for wildlife: The importance of the individual
Authors: Smith Pauline , Mann Janet , Marsh Abigail
Published: May 2024

Because climate change and the biodiversity crisis are driven by human actions, determining psychological mechanisms underpinning support for environmental action is an urgent priority. Here, we experimentally tested for mechanisms promoting conservation-related motivation and behavior toward a flagship species, wild Tamanend's bottlenose dolphins. Following evidence that empathy increases prosocial motivations and behavior, and that the ability to identify individual humans promotes empathy, we tested whether this relationship applied to the ability to identify individual dolphins. Participants identified dolphins from their dorsal fins at above chance levels, and better individuation correlated with higher empathy for dolphins and higher willingness to pledge environmental behaviors. Pairing a narrative with an image of an injured dolphin leads to higher donations relative to a narrative alone. Our novel finding that the ability to individually identify dolphins relates to empathy and conservation-related behavior suggests pathways for strengthening environmental attitudes and behavior.
Uplifting local ecological knowledge as part of adaptation pathways to wildfire risk reduction: A case study in Montseny, Catalonia (Spain)
Authors: Uyttewaal Kathleen , Stoof Cathelijne R. , Canaleta Guillem , Cifre-Sabater Maria , Langer E. R. , Ludwig Fulco , Kroeze Carolien , Moran Pepa , Ottolini Isabeau , Prat-Guitart Núria
Published: May 2024

Living with wildfires in an era of climate change requires adaptation and weaving together many forms of knowledge. Empirical evidence of knowledge co-production in wildfire management is lacking in Mediterranean European areas. We explored how local ecological knowledge can be leveraged to reduce wildfire risk through an adaptation pathways process in the Montseny massif and wider Tordera River watershed of Catalonia, Spain: an area stewarded through forestry and agriculture, tourism, nature conservation, and fire management. We combined different methods (e.g., a timeline and Three Horizons framework) throughout three workshops with agents of change to co-create adaptation pathways to reduce wildfire risk, integrating a historical perspective of the landscape while envisioning desirable futures. Our results showed that local ecological knowledge and other soft adaptation strategies contribute to innovative sustainable development initiatives that can also mitigate wildfire risk. The adaptation pathways approach holds much potential to inform local policies and support wildfire-based community initiatives in diverse contexts.
AI-Related Risk: An Epistemological Approach
Authors: Zanotti Giacomo , Chiffi Daniele , Schiaffonati Viola
Published: May 2024

Risks connected with AI systems have become a recurrent topic in public and academic debates, and the European proposal for the AI Act explicitly adopts a risk-based tiered approach that associates different levels of regulation with different levels of risk. However, a comprehensive and general framework to think about AI-related risk is still lacking. In this work, we aim to provide an epistemological analysis of such risk building upon the existing literature on disaster risk analysis and reduction. We show how a multi-component analysis of risk, that distinguishes between the dimensions of hazard, exposure, and vulnerability, allows us to better understand the sources of AI-related risks and effectively intervene to mitigate them. This multi-component analysis also turns out to be particularly useful in the case of general-purpose and experimental AI systems, for which it is often hard to perform both ex-ante and ex-post risk analyses.
Self-dispersed molybdenum disulfide quantum dot/graphene crumpled ball as efficient high temperature lubricant additive
Authors: Du Guiru , Zhang Yujuan , Fan Shuguang , Song Ningning , Zhang Shengmao , Zhang Pingyu
Published: May 2024

Inorganic nanoparticles have been proved as powerful lubricant additives at elevated temperature. However, the tribological properties are inevitably impaired due to poor dispersion and insufficient high temperature resistance of organic matter modified nanoparticles. Here, we prepare a self-dispersed molybdenum disulfide quantum dot/graphene crumpled ball (MGCB) comprising molybdenum disulfide quantum dot uniformly interspersed on the wrinkled graphene ball. The crumpled ball composite possesses excellent dispersity in polyalkylene glycol base oil without depending on surface modifiers. Compared with the conventional phosphate esters lubricant, our results indicate MGCB could vastly improve the lubrication performance of polyalkylene glycol with an extremely low concentration (0.05 wt%) at elevated temperature (150 °C), showing a friction reduction of 47% and a wear reduction of 30% compared with the conventional phosphate esters lubricant (tricresyl phosphate, TCP). This is because crumpled ball potentiates synergistic lubrication effect within the boundary lubrication. Overall, we envision our designed self-dispersed MGCB has significant potential in tribological application at elevated temperature.
Wear protection assessment of ultralow viscosity lubricants in high-power-density engines: A novel wear prediction algorithm
Authors: Blanco-Rodríguez Javier , Porteiro Jacobo , López-Campos José A. , Cortada-García Martí , Fernández-Castejón Silvia
Published: May 2024

Durability and reliability have been studied for decades through intensive trial-error experimentation. However, there are numerous fields of application where the costs associated with this approach are not acceptable. In lubricated machines with severe dynamic loads, such as high-power-density engines, simulation tools offer clear advantages over intensive testing. Prototypes and multiple scenarios can be cost-effectively simulated to assess different lubricants and engine configurations. The work presented here details the study of wear based on a validated elastohydrodynamic (EHD) simulation model of the connecting rod journal bearing. This model accounts for elastic deformation through a connecting rod finite element model (FEM). In addition, multiple lubricant rheological and tribological dependences, determined by specific experimental tests, are applied in the model through their interaction with the simulation software. Correspondingly, a novel wear algorithm is proposed to predict wear depth over time evolution along a proposed wear cycle based on the typical working ranges of high-performance engines. A final assessment is presented to compare 4 different ultralow-viscosity lubricants in their protective performance under severe conditions. The results show the evolution of the wear load and wear depth over the wear cycle. This evaluation is key to describing a lubricant selection procedure for high-power-density engines.
Tribological evaluation of thermoplastic polyurethane-based bearing materials under water lubrication: Effect of load, sliding speed, and temperature
Authors: Jiang Shaoli , Wong Janet S. S. , Puhan Debashis , Yuan Tian , Bai Xiuqin , Yuan Chengqing
Published: May 2024

Polymers are widely used in bearing applications. In the case of water-lubricated stern tube bearings, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based composites are used due to their excellent wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and tunable mechanical properties. Their tribological performance, however, depends on operating conditions. In this work, TPU was blended with carbon fiber, graphene platelet, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Friction tests of TPU based-composites against copper countersurface were carried out in water to mimic the actual operating conditions of the bearing. Most of the resulting contacts were in the boundary lubrication regime, in which friction was attributed to both contact mechanics of asperities as well as water lubrication. Our results show that the viscoelasticity of TPU has a considerable impact on its tribological performance. Water lubrication at 50 °C promotes the softening of polymer surface material during sliding, resulting in higher fluctuation in the coefficient of friction and wear loss. This is attributed to the reduced thermomechanical properties. In addition, Schallamach waviness is observed on worn surface. The tribological properties of TPU are significantly improved by the inclusion of carbon fiber, graphene platelet, and UHMWPE. The formation of graphene transfer-layers and UHMWPE transfer film reduces friction and wear loss, while the inclusion of carbon fiber enhances wear resistance due to improved mechanical properties and load bearing capacity.
Flexible metal–organic frameworks based self-lubricating composite
Authors: Yang Xiao , Wang Yunbo , Cao Weihua , Zheng Jinghan , Liu Changxin , Fan Bingli , Qi Xiaowen
Published: May 2024

To expand the use of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) based self-lubricating composite, flexible MOFs MIL-88D has been studied as a nanocontainer for loading lubricant. In this work, the mechanism of oleamine adsorption and desorption by MIL-88D was investigated through molecular simulations and experiments. Molecular simulations showed that the oleamines can be physically adsorbed into open MIL-88Ds with the Fe and O atoms of MIL-88D interacting with oleamine NH2-group. Higher temperature can cause Ole@MIL-88D to release more oleamines, while higher pressure on Ole@MIL-88D caused less oleamines released. Moreover the Ole@MIL-88D was incorporated into epoxy resin (EP) for friction tests. The optimum mass ratio of MIL-88D to EP is 15 wt%, and the EP/Ole@MIL-88D prefers light load and high frequency friction. This work suggests that flexible MOFs can be used as a nanocontainer for loading lubricant, and can be used as a new self-lubricating composite.
Mental accounting in tax liabilities
Authors: Javareshk Maryam Bathaei , Pulford Briony D. , Krockow Eva M.
Published: May 2024

Mental accounting refers to a set of cognitive processes in which people code, categorize and evaluate money depending on where it came from and what they are going to spend it on, and this influences the way they make decisions. The concept of mental accounting violates the principles of standard economic theories, which consider money to be fungible or interchangeable. When people mentally account, they prefer to keep accounts separate and not to move money from one mental account to another. The current study aimed to investigate how people mentally account by designing a tax compliance laboratory experiment and using a variety of scenarios. In the first scenario, which involved different tax rate variations, participants were asked to pay tax on their earned and capital incomes. The results showed that participants formed separate mental accounts and treated their earned and capital incomes differently. Specifically, when faced with high tax rates of 60%, tax evasion was significantly higher for earned (labour) incomes compared to capital incomes. This willingness to cheat in order to protect labour income, suggests that individuals value their earned income more compared to income received from a given endowment (capital income). Interestingly, in subsequent scenarios involving different audit probabilities and fine rates, no mental accounting effects were found. In conclusion, this study provides initial experimental insights into the effects of mental accounting on taxpayer’s compliance, but further research is needed to explain nuanced findings and investigate tax decisions for different reference points and other sources of income.
Durability of alkali-activated fly ash-slag concrete- state of art
Authors: Hamsashree  , Pandit Poornachandra , Prashanth Shreelaxmi , Katpady Dhruva Narayana
Published: May 2024

India ranks among the foremost global producers and consumers of cement, and the cement industry contributes significantly to carbon emissions. Alkali-activated materials have gained significant attention as a sustainable alternative to Portland cement, offering the potential to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions and promote effective recycling of waste materials. Fly ash (FA) and Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) are preferred raw materials for Alkali-activated concrete (AAC) owing to their effective repurposing of waste, widespread accessibility, advantageous chemical composition, and performance attributes. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state-of-the-art on the durability aspects of fly ash/slag-based AAC. The paper explores the unique characteristics of FA/GGBS-based AAC, emphasizing their potential to enhance the durability of concrete structures. Insights into the material behaviour under various environmental exposures, including aggressive chemical environments and freeze–thaw cycles, are presented. Furthermore, the article addresses both the obstacles and prospects associated with implementing fly ash/slag-based AAC as a potential construction material suitable for large-scale infrastructure projects. This overview is designed to direct future research efforts and provide practitioners with insights into the potential of FA/GGBS-based AAC for ensuring the prolonged durability of concrete structures.
Trajectory Optimization and Multiple-Sliding-Surface Terminal Guidance in the Lifting Atmospheric Reentry
Authors: Leonardi Edoardo Maria , Pontani Mauro
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the problem of guiding a vehicle from the entry interface to the ground is addressed. The Space Shuttle Orbiter is assumed as the reference vehicle and its aerodynamics data are interpolated to properly simulate its dynamics. The transatmospheric guidance is based on an open-loop optimal strategy which minimizes the total heat input absorbed by the vehicle while satisfying all the constraints. Instead, the terminal phase guidance is achieved through a multiple-sliding-surface technique, which is able to drive the vehicle toward a specified landing point with desired heading angle and vertical velocity at touchdown, even in the presence of nonnominal initial conditions. The terminal guidance strategy is successfully tested through a Monte Carlo campaign, in the presence of stochastic winds and wide dispersions on the initial conditions at the terminal area energy management, in more critical scenarios with respect to the orbiter safety criteria.