Nature Of Interactions Research Articles

Exploring the nonlinear optical characteristics of supersalt-decorated graphyne via DFT analysis: unveiling quantum insights into light-matter interaction

In this comprehensive study, we explore into the nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of graphyne (GRY) and its compounds decorated with a super salt (OLi3BeF3), namely GRY@SS1, and GRY@SS2) using the rB3LYP/6−31G(d,p) DFT method. Our findings reveal a substantial enhancement in the electron transfer properties of decorated compounds compared to the pristine GRY surface. This enhancement is evidence by the reduction in the bandgap energies (Eg) from 3.52 eV to 1.68 eV and remarkable boost in maximum absorption ( λmax) from 372.66 to 807.73 nm. Noteably, GRY@SS2 exhibits a significant increase in linear polarizability ( α0 ) (538.18 au), first hyperpolarizability ( β0 ) (3872.76 au), and second hyperpolarizability ( γ0 ) (1.00 × 106) due to reduced excitations energies compared to the GRY ( α0 = 448.61, β0 = 0.14 and γ0 = 5.97 × 105 au). NBO charges show that electrons are transferring from the dopant (supersalt) to the GRY sheet. Furthermore, Non-covalent interactions (NCl), iso-surface, infrared (IR), 1H NMR, and 13C NMR studies have been conducted to provide insights into the nature of interactions, vibrational frequencies, and structural-functional aspects of GRY and GRY@SS1, and GRY@SS2. According to TD-DFT calculations, all compounds demonstrate superior vertical ionization potential, UV–vis absorbance, HOMO–LUMO characteristics, as well as interaction energies. Our results underscore the potential of these compounds as valuable NLO materials, particularly highlighting the promising prospects of GRY@SS2.

Rethinking materials simulations: Blending direct numerical simulations with neural operators

Materials simulations based on direct numerical solvers are accurate but computationally expensive for predicting materials evolution across length- and time-scales, due to the complexity of the underlying evolution equations, the nature of multiscale spatiotemporal interactions, and the need to reach long-time integration. We develop a method that blends direct numerical solvers with neural operators to accelerate such simulations. This methodology is based on the integration of a community numerical solver with a U-Net neural operator, enhanced by a temporal-conditioning mechanism to enable accurate extrapolation and efficient time-to-solution predictions of the dynamics. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this hybrid framework on simulations of microstructure evolution via the phase-field method. Such simulations exhibit high spatial gradients and the co-evolution of different material phases with simultaneous slow and fast materials dynamics. We establish accurate extrapolation of the coupled solver with large speed-up compared to DNS depending on the hybrid strategy utilized. This methodology is generalizable to a broad range of materials simulations, from solid mechanics to fluid dynamics, geophysics, climate, and more.

Are Cartoon Movies Necessary for Junior High School Students to Learn Arabic Language?

In the current digital era, educational methodologies are evolving at an unprecedented pace, making it crucial to explore innovative teaching tools. Cartoons, with their engaging and interactive nature, present a compelling medium for Arabic language learning, particularly for young children. This research aims to describe the need for Arabic language education development by exploring learning media using cartoons. The method utilized in this study is systematic literature review, employing meta-synthesis procedures. The research findings indicate that the use of cartoons in Arabic language learning in the digital era positively impacts student engagement and understanding of learning materials. Overall, this study underscores the significance of integrating cartoons into Arabic language education to cater to the needs of elementary school children in today's digital age.

Healthcare experiences of pregnant and postnatal women and healthcare professionals when facing child protection in the perinatal period: A systematic review and Critical Interpretative Synthesis.

The perinatal period is known as time of transition and anticipation. For women with social risk factors, child protection services may become involved during the perinatal period and this might complicate their interactions with healthcare providers. To systematically review and synthesise the existing qualitative evidence of healthcare experiences of women and healthcare professionals during the perinatal period while facing child protection involvement. A systematic search of databases (Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINAHL, ASSIA, MIDIRS, Social Policy and Practice and Global Health) was carried out in January 2023, and updated in February 2024. Quality of studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. A Critical Interpretative Synthesis was used alongside the PRISMA reporting guideline. A total of 41 studies were included in this qualitative evidence synthesis. We identified three types of healthcare interactions: Relational care, Surveillance and Avoidance. Healthcare interactions can fluctuate between these types, and elements of different types can coexist simultaneously, indicating the complexity and reciprocal nature of healthcare interactions during the perinatal period when child protection processes are at play. Our findings provide a novel interpretation of the reciprocal interactions in healthcare encounters when child protection agencies are involved. Trust and transparency are key to facilitate relational care. Secure and appropriate information-sharing between agencies and professionals is required to strengthen healthcare systems. Healthcare professionals should have access to relevant training and supervision in order to confidently yet sensitively safeguard women and babies, while upholding principles of trauma-informed care. In addition, systemic racism in child protection processes exacerbate healthcare inequalities and has to be urgently addressed. Providing a clear framework of mutual expectations between families and healthcare professionals can increase engagement, trust and accountability and advance equity.

Advancements and Challenges in Hand Gesture Recognition: A Comprehensive Review

Hand gesture recognition is a quickly developing field with many uses in human-computer interaction, sign language recognition, virtual reality, gaming, and robotics. This paper reviews different ways to model hands, such as vision-based, sensor-based, and data glove-based techniques. It emphasizes the importance of accurate hand modeling and feature extraction for capturing and analyzing gestures. Key features like motion, depth, color, shape, and pixel values and their relevance in gesture recognition are discussed. Challenges faced in hand gesture recognition include lighting variations, complex backgrounds, noise, and real-time performance. Machine learning algorithms are used to classify and recognize gestures based on extracted features. The paper emphasizes the need for further research and advancements to improve hand gesture recognition systems' robustness, accuracy, and usability. This review offers valuable insights into the current state of hand gesture recognition, its applications, and its potential to revolutionize human-computer interaction and enable natural and intuitive interactions between humans and machines. In simpler terms, hand gesture recognition is a way for computers to understand what people are saying with their hands. It has many potential applications, such as allowing people to control computers without touching them or helping people with disabilities communicate. The paper reviews different ways to develop hand gesture recognition systems and discusses the challenges and opportunities in this area.

Kurdish women’s interactions in European urban public space and the extent of their social integration

ABSTRACT The development of accessible and inclusive public spaces has been proposed as a means to address this gender inequality and promote social inclusion. However, there is a lack of specific analysis on the interactions and integration of Kurdish migrant women in European cities. This study explores the social integration of Kurdish migrant women in European urban settings, with a focus on Vienna and Cologne. It investigates the role of urban public spaces in Kurdish women’s social interactions and integration into host communities. The study analyzes the sociodemographic characteristics of Kurdish women in both cities and examines the nature of interactions, sense of safety, meaningful social activities, and barriers in public spaces. The results show that frequenting public spaces and engaging in meaningful social activities correlate positively with social inclusion, while feelings of safety and barriers do not show significant correlations. The study highlights the importance of considering the unique context of each city and improving access to public spaces and community activities to promote social inclusion. The findings contribute to strategies for promoting social inclusion of immigrant women based on their interactions in urban public spaces.

Polysaccharide Hydroxyapatite (Nano)composites and Their Biomedical Applications: An Overview of Recent Years.

Hydroxyapatite can combine with polysaccharide originating biomaterials with special applications in the biomedical field. In this review, the synthesis of (nano)composites is discussed, focusing on natural polysaccharides such as alginate, chitosan, and pectin. In this way, advances in recent years in the development of preparing materials are revised and discussed. Therefore, an overview of the recent synthesis and applications of polyssacharides@hydroxyapatites is presented. Several studies based on chitosan@hydroxyapatite combined with other inorganic matrices are highlighted, while pectin@hydroxyapatite is present in a smaller number of reports. Biomedical applications as drug carriers, adsorbents, and bone implants are discussed, combining their dependence with the nature of interactions on the molecular scale and the type of polysaccharides used, which is a relevant aspect to be explored.

How Can We Study Change Processes in Psychotherapy While Addressing Its Interactive Nature

Does the empathy or personality of psychotherapists influence the way they do therapy? Is the therapeutic relationship the key to success? Questions such as these are commonly shared in Change Process Research (CPR) and outcome studies. However, these statements, posed in descriptive cross-sectional terms, often imply the use of strategies grounded in causal-linear explanatory models. The present study offers an alternative tool to measure elements of psychotherapy in dynamic, interactive, and interdependent terms. With nine observational categories defined under analytical-behavioral lens, the Acoveo System is an instrument designed to detect the potential functions of verbal exchanges that take place in the psychotherapeutic context from any theoretical orientation. A guide to its application is provided, and its usefulness is elaborated on two of the pivotal common factors in change process research: empathy and therapeutic alliance.

Essential oil components interacting with insect odorant-binding proteins: a molecular modelling approach

ABSTRACT Essential oils (EOs) are natural products currently used to control arthropods, and their interaction with insect odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) is fundamental for the discovery of new repellents. This in silico study aimed to predict the potential of EO components to interact with odorant proteins. A total of 684 EO components from PubChem were docked against 23 odorant binding proteins from Protein Data Bank using AutoDock Vina. The ligands and proteins were optimized using Gaussian 09 and Sybyl-X 2.0, respectively. The nature of the protein-ligand interactions was characterized using LigandScout 4.0, and visualization of the binding mode in selected complexes was carried out by Pymol. Additionally, complexes with the best binding energy in molecular docking were subjected to 500 ns molecular dynamics simulations using Gromacs. The best binding affinity values were obtained for the 1DQE-ferutidine (−11 kcal/mol) and 2WCH-kaurene (−11.2 kcal/mol) complexes. Both are natural ligands that dock onto those proteins at the same binding site as DEET, a well-known insect repellent. This study identifies kaurene and ferutidine as possible candidates for natural insect repellents, offering a potential alternative to synthetic chemicals like DEET.

Determinants in the phage life cycle: The dynamic nature of ssDNA phage FLiP and host interactions under varying environmental conditions and growth phases.

The influence of environmental factors on the interactions between phages and bacteria, particularly single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) phages, has been largely unexplored. In this study, we used Finnlakevirus FLiP, the first known ssDNA phage species with a lipid membrane, as our model phage. We examined the infectivity of FLiP with three Flavobacterium host strains, B330, B167 and B114. We discovered that FLiP infection is contingent on the host strain and conditions such as temperature and bacterial growth phase. FLiP can infect its hosts across a wide temperature range, but optimal phage replication varies with each host. We uncovered some unique aspects of phage infectivity: FLiP has limited infectivity in liquid-suspended cells, but it improves when cells are surface-attached. Moreover, FLiP infects stationary phase B167 and B114 cells more rapidly and efficiently than exponentially growing cells, a pattern not observed with the B330 host. We also present the first experimental evidence of endolysin function in ssDNA phages. The activity of FLiP's lytic enzymes was found to be condition-dependent. Our findings underscore the importance of studying phage ecology in contexts that are relevant to the environment, as both the host and the surrounding conditions can significantly alter the outcome of phage-host interactions.

Stochastic differential equationfor a system coupled to a thermostatic bath via an arbitrary interaction Hamiltonian.

The conventional Langevin equationoffers a mathematically convenient framework for investigating open stochastic systems interacting with their environment or a bath. However, it is not suitable for a wide variety of systems whose dynamics rely on the nature of the environmental interaction, as the equationdoes not incorporate any specific information regarding that interaction. Here, we present a stochastic differential equation(SDE) for an open system coupled to a thermostatic bath via an arbitrary interaction Hamiltonian. This SDE encodes the interaction information to a fictitious potential (mean force) and a position-dependent damping coefficient. Surprisingly, we find that the conventional Langevin equationcan be recovered in the presence of arbitrary strong interactions given two conditions: translational invariance of the potential and mutual independence of baths. Our results provide a comprehensive framework for studying open stochastic systems with an arbitrary interaction Hamiltonian and yield deeper insight into why various experiments fit the conventional Langevin description regardless of the strength or type of interaction.

Role of TGF-β1/SMADs signalling pathway in resveratrol-induced reduction of extracellular matrix deposition by dexamethasone-treated human trabecular meshwork cells.

Deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the trabecular meshwork (TM) increases aqueous humour outflow resistance leading to elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) in primary open-angle glaucoma, which remains the only modifiable risk factor. Resveratrol has been shown to counteract the steroid-induced increase in IOP and increase the TM expression of ECM proteolytic enzymes; however, its effects on the deposition of ECM components by TM and its associated pathways, such as TGF-β-SMAD signalling remain uncertain. This study, therefore, explored the effects of trans-resveratrol on the expression of ECM components, SMAD signalling molecules, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and tissue plasminogen activator in dexamethasone-treated human TM cells (HTMCs). We also studied the nature of molecular interaction of trans -resveratrol with SMAD4 domains using ensemble docking. Treatment of HTMCs with 12.5 µM trans-resveratrol downregulated the dexamethasone-induced increase in collagen, fibronectin and α-smooth muscle actin at gene and protein levels through downregulation of TGF-β1, SMAD4, and upregulation of SMAD7. Downregulation of TGF-β1 signalling by trans-resveratrol could be attributed to its effect on the transcriptional activity due to high affinity for the MH2 domain of SMAD4. These effects may contribute to resveratrol's IOP-lowering properties by reducing ECM deposition and enhancing aqueous humour outflow in the TM.

Investigating Some Trends of the Impact of Digitalisation on the Economy of the Republic of Armenia

Fundamental understanding of the impact of digitalisation in various spheres of public life is essential in the development and implementation of policies aimed at realisation of the justified transformations. Considering the far-reaching effects of innovations and the realities formed through them, it is important to understand how modern trends change themselves or can change the socio-economic sight of the country under consideration, what should be paid attention to and when, showing a cautious approach. However, the possible impact of digitalisation on the economy of the Republic of Armenia has not been studied much. The economic aspects investigated in the professional literature are few, and a significant number of variables considered as indicators of digitalisation stand out for their frequent use. In this study, the value added created in Armenia and the export of telecommunications, computer, and information services from Armenia from the first quarter of 2013 to the third quarter of 2022 inclusive are considered. The purpose of the research is to find out the presence and nature of the possible interaction between those indicators, as well as to forecast the values of the latter for the next 10 quarters. The vector error-correction model is applied, which is due to the non-stationarity of the indicators. The results of the study show that there is a long-term interaction between the observed indicators, as persistent shocks are shown to stabilise at certain levels for the period from the fourth quarter 2022 to the fourth quarter 2028. For the period up to and including the first quarter of 2025, the values of both indicators are forecast.

Molecular dynamics simulations of nucleosomes are coming of age

AbstractUnderstanding the function of eukaryotic genomes, including the human genome, is undoubtedly one of the major scientific challenges of the 21st century. The cornerstone of eukaryotic genome organization is nucleosomes—elementary building blocks of chromatin about 10 nm in size that wrap DNA around an octamer of histone proteins. Nucleosomes are integral players in all genomic processes, including transcription, DNA replication and repair. They mediate genome regulation at the epigenetic level, bridging the discrete nature of the genetic information encoded in DNA with the analog physical nature of the intermolecular interactions required to access that information. Due to their relatively large size and dynamic nature, nucleosomes are difficult objects for experimental characterization. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have emerged over the years as a useful tool to complement experimental studies. Particularly in recent years, advances in computing power, refinement of MD force fields and codes have opened up new frontiers in terms of simulation timescales and quality for nucleosomes and related systems. It has become possible to elucidate in atomistic detail their functional dynamics modes such as DNA unwrapping and sliding, to characterize the effects of epigenetic modifications, DNA and protein sequence variation on nucleosome structure and stability, to describe the mechanisms governing nucleosome interactions with chromatin‐associated proteins and the formation of supranucleosome structures. In this review, we systematically analyzed all‐atom MD simulation studies of nucleosomes and related structures published since 2018 and discussed their relevance in the context of older studies, experimental data, and related coarse‐grained and multiscale studies.This article is categorized under: Software > Molecular Modeling Molecular and Statistical Mechanics > Molecular Dynamics and Monte‐Carlo Methods Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics

A model of marmoset monkey vocal turn-taking.

Vocal turn-taking has been described in a diversity of species. Yet, a model that is able to capture the various processes underlying this social behaviour across species has not been developed. To this end, here we recorded a large and diverse dataset of marmoset monkey vocal behaviour in social contexts comprising one, two and three callers and developed a model to determine the keystone factors that affect the dynamics of these natural communicative interactions. Notably, marmoset turn-taking did not abide by coupled-oscillator dynamics, but rather call timing was overwhelmingly stochastic in these exchanges. Our features-based model revealed four key factors that encapsulate the majority of patterns evident in the behaviour, ranging from internal processes, such as particular states of the individual driving increased calling, to social context-driven suppression of calling. These findings indicate that marmoset vocal turn-taking is affected by a broader suite of mechanisms than previously considered and that our model provides a predictive framework with which to further explicate this natural behaviour at both the behavioural and neurobiological levels, and for direct comparisons with the analogous behaviour in other species.

Kine-Appendage: Enhancing Freehand VR Interaction Through Transformations of Virtual Appendages.

Kinesthetic feedback, the feeling of restriction or resistance when hands contact objects, is essential for natural freehand interaction in VR. However, inducing kinesthetic feedback using mechanical hardware can be cumbersome and hard to control in commodity VR systems. We propose the kine-appendage concept to compensate for the loss of kinesthetic feedback in virtual environments, i.e., a virtual appendage is added to the user's avatar hand; when the appendage contacts a virtual object, it exhibits transformations (rotation and deformation); when it disengages from the contact, it recovers its original appearance. A proof-of-concept kine-appendage technique, BrittleStylus, was designed to enhance isomorphic typing. Our empirical evaluations demonstrated that (i) BrittleStylus significantly reduced the uncorrected error rate of naive isomorphic typing from 6.53% to 1.92% without compromising the typing speed; (ii) BrittleStylus could induce the sense of kinesthetic feedback, the degree of which was parity with that induced by pseudo-haptic (+ visual cue) methods; and (iii) participants preferred BrittleStylus over pseudo-haptic (+ visual cue) methods because of not only good performance but also fluent hand movements.

Gendered Affordances of Digital Technology in Mitigating the Perceived Risk of Dating App Matches Perpetrating Sexual Assault or “Making Stories” of Assault

Dating apps are a popular tool for finding sexual and romantic partners. Yet, these apps can pose risks that arise from gendered affordances of technology that users deploy to harass and victimize their matches, particularly matches who are women or sexual and gender minorities. Just as gendered affordances may facilitate risks, dating app users may also deploy technology in ways that mitigate risk. In this study, we examined risks that men and women perceive dating app matches to pose, as well as ways in which they use technology to mitigate these risks. Through an analysis of focus groups conducted with a sample of college student dating app users, we found the perceived risks that matches pose were markedly different for men and women, particularly among those seeking mixed-gender pairings. Women who matched with men were concerned about being sexually assaulted, whereas men who matched with women were concerned about being falsely accused of assault. Thus, women used gendered affordances to enhance their safety, and men used affordances to enhance their “believability.” We suggest our findings point to the positional and interactional nature of gendered affordances, encompassing ways in which gender inequality may be both maintained and subverted with digital technology.

Utilization of Virtual Reality (VR) in Developing Interactive Learning Experiences

The development of Virtual Reality (VR) technology has opened up new opportunities for creating more immersive and interactive learning experiences. With its ability to simulate realistic virtual environments, Virtual Reality has the potential to increase student engagement in the learning process, aid understanding of complex concepts, and promote active learning. This research aims to explore the use of Virtual Reality technology in developing interactive learning experiences. The main focus is evaluating the effectiveness of Virtual Reality in increasing student motivation, engagement and learning outcomes, as well as identifying supporting factors and challenges in implementing Virtual Reality in educational environments. This research uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was collected through observation, interviews, surveys and analysis of student performance in a Virtual Reality-based learning environment. A prototype Virtual Reality application for learning was built and tested on a group of students with diverse backgrounds. The research results show that the use of Virtual Reality in the learning environment significantly increases student motivation and engagement. Students feel more interested and involved in the learning process due to the immersive and interactive nature of the virtual environment. Additionally, understanding complex concepts becomes easier with the visualizations and simulations provided by Virtual Reality. However, challenges such as implementation costs, training needs, and technical issues were also identified. The research conclusion states that Virtual Reality is a promising technology for developing interactive learning experiences. Although there are challenges that must be overcome, research results show that Virtual Reality can increase student motivation, engagement and understanding in the learning process. Further research is needed to explore the potential of Virtual Reality in more depth.

Enhancing Next-Generation Workplaces by Developing Office Interior Architecture with Biophilic Elements

In today's world, with the impact of Covid-19 on businesses, hybrid work models have become necessity, and healthand safety concerns have increased. Biophilic design has played a significant role, adapting to new requirements suchas social distancing and hygiene in interior spaces. Biophilic design boosts employee motivation, performance, andenhances workplace ambiance through nature interaction. This study examines how biophilic design can be utilized toadapt to hybrid work models and enhance employee health and well-being. Innovative design proposals based onbiophilic design principles, including plant arrangements, natural lighting, ventilation optimization, and flexibleworkspaces, have been developed. These designs adopt a human-centered approach, considering ergonomics,productivity, and employee well-being. Consequently, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of theimportance of biophilic design for businesses and how interior workspaces can be designed. Additionally, the use ofsustainable materials and energy efficiency was emphasized in the design process.

서비스형 버추얼 휴먼의 감성적 디자인 분석 및 UX평가

As the digitization of museums accelerates, service-oriented virtual humans are leading the museum industry's entry into the metaverse. However, compared to other countries, the application of service-oriented virtual humans in Chinese museums is still in its early stages. This study explores ways to enhance the user experience of service-oriented virtual humans in museums through emotional design and UX evaluation. Firstly, the study identifies emotional design elements and UX evaluation factors through prior research. Secondly, it discusses seven elements—visual, auditory, storytelling, interaction, pleasure, satisfaction, and convenience—across the three levels of emotional design(instinctive, behavioral, and reflective) using representative cases from Chinese museums. Thirdly, based on prior research, the study establishes UX evaluation criteria and selects expert interview subjects, identifying key factors affecting user experience: meaningful, pleasurable, convenient, usable, reliable, and interaction. Finally, the study synthesizes insights from case analysis and interview results. From an emotional design perspective, virtual humans are modeled after real people and incorporate traditional Chinese cultural elements in their appearance, using natural dialogue and emotional expression. They explain the background and history of artifacts and enhance participation through diverse interaction methods. Rich knowledge and engaging interactions attract visitor attention and enhance enjoyment. In terms of UX evaluation, diverse interactions increase immersion, while natural language and visual/auditory elements stimulate curiosity and engagement. Concise information delivery and voice interaction improve convenience. Functions such as inquiry response and route planning meet individual needs. Natural voice interaction and data security enhance trust, while improved voice recognition accuracy and facial expression consistency enhance user immersion and interaction experience.