Science Perspective Research Articles

Behavioral strategies for reducing corruption: from regulation to choice architecture

Abstract Traditionally, corruption is seen as a rational pursuit of profit, focusing on personal gain. However, this view overlooks other influences. This paper focuses on the behavioral aspects of corruption, providing a deeper understanding of its complexities, and addressing the factors overlooked by conventional approaches. Reviewing some of the literature, we highlight how researchers have approached corruption from the perspective of behavioral sciences. Additionally, we examine how the emerging discipline of Behavioral Public Policy (BPP) employs innovative methods to reduce corrupt practices, offering new strategies that transcend traditional perspectives. Our paper innovates by demonstrating how corruption can be reduced by substituting traditional regulations with nonregulatory tools like nudges and sludge audits, or by leveraging digital choice architectures to minimize human-to-human interactions, known corruption enablers. By reducing regulations and administrative red tape, and introducing digital frameworks, these tools simplify processes minimizing opportunities for corrupt behavior. In this paper, we aim to infuse corruption research with a behavioral twist, a digital approach, and a deregulatory perspective, offering policymakers an alternative path to foster transparency, accountability and ethical governance. While this approach will not completely eradicate corruption, it strives to show how BPP can reduce its occurrences.

No detectable loss of myonuclei from human muscle fibers after six weeks of immobilization following an Achilles tendon rupture.

Muscle disuse has rapid and debilitating effects on muscle mass and overall health, making it an important issue from both scientific and clinical perspectives. However, the myocellular adaptations to muscle disuse are not yet fully understood, particularly those related to the myonuclear permanence hypothesis. Therefore, in this study, we assessed fiber size, number of myonuclei, satellite cells, and capillaries in human gastrocnemius muscle after a period of immobilization following an Achilles tendon rupture. Six physically active patients (5M/1F, 43 {plus minus} 15 years) were recruited to participate after sustaining an acute unilateral Achilles tendon rupture. Muscle biopsies were obtained from the lateral part of the gastrocnemius before and after six weeks of immobilization using a plaster cast and orthosis. Muscle fiber characteristics were analyzed in tissue cross-sections and isolated single fibers using immunofluorescence and high-resolution microscopy. Immobilization did not change muscle fiber type composition nor cross-sectional area of type I or type II fibers, but muscle fiber volume tended to decline by 13% (p=0.077). After immobilization, the volume per myonucleus was significantly reduced by 20% (p=0.008). Myonuclei were not lost in response to immobilization but tended to increase in single fibers and type II fibers. No significant changes were observed for satellite cells or capillaries. Myonuclei were not lost in the gastrocnemius muscle after a prolonged period of immobilization, which may provide support to the myonuclear permanence hypothesis in human muscle. Capillaries remained stable throughout the immobilization period, whereas the response was variable for satellite cells, particularly in type II fibers.

Physical reservoir computing: a tutorial

AbstractThis tutorial covers physical reservoir computing from a computer science perspective. It first defines what it means for a physical system to compute, rather than merely evolve under the laws of physics. It describes the underlying computational model, the Echo State Network (ESN), and also some variants designed to make physical implementation easier. It explains why the ESN model is particularly suitable for direct physical implementation. It then discusses the issues around choosing a suitable material substrate, and interfacing the inputs and outputs. It describes how to characterise a physical reservoir in terms of benchmark tasks, and task-independent measures. It covers optimising configuration parameters, exploring the space of potential configurations, and simulating the physical reservoir. It ends with a look at the future of physical reservoir computing as devices get more powerful, and are integrated into larger systems.

Cracking the code of teacher burnout: the chain mediation of GPT integration degree through behavioral engagement and classroom atmosphere in a cross-level chain mediation model

Chat GPT technology plays a pivotal role in global educational innovation and the enhancement of the quality of teaching and learning. In the field of education research, numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the effectiveness of GPT technology, teacher acceptance, and student engagement in depth. To date, few studies have considered the compounding effects of these factors on teacher burnout from the perspectives of psychology and behavioral sciences in conjunction with the dichotomous and complex relationship between teachers and students. Consequently, based on the findings of previous scholars, this study constructed a cross-layer chain mediation model based on the SOR and EASI models. This model was used to explore how different motivators affect the alleviation of teacher burnout through psychological and behavioral mechanisms. The study involved 47 teachers and 506 students from 10 universities. The findings of the study indicated that (1) the direct effect of GPT integration degree on teacher burnout was not statistically significant, and (2) the classroom atmosphere played a pivotal mediating role in the relationship between GPT integration degree and teacher burnout. (3) The degree of GPT integration degree exerts an indirect and orderly negative influence on teacher burnout through behavioral engagement and classroom atmosphere. The objective of this study is to further enhance our comprehension of the utilization of GPT technology in education and to provide strategic recommendations for its advancement in educational practice.

Indigenous use and conservation of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) at Yakutat, Alaska since the sixteenth century

Sustainable Indigenous resource use reflects balance between animal populations and levels of human consumption, influenced by natural cycles of faunal abundance, community size and subsistence needs, procurement technologies, and the requirements of trade or commodity production. Sustainability is “epiphenomenal” when animal populations are preserved, and community needs met, without deliberate measures to prevent overharvesting. Alternatively, Indigenous conservation—cultural practices that moderate use of a resource to prevent its depletion—may play a determinative role. In this study from the Tlingit community of Yakutat, Alaska in the Northwest Coast cultural region, we interweave Indigenous and scientific perspectives to trace the use and conservation of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) from before Western contact through the Russian and American colonial periods to the present. Harbor seals, which concentrate in large numbers at a summer ice floe rookery near Hubbard Glacier, are the community's most important subsistence food and a key to its culture and history. The Smithsonian Institution and Yakutat Tlingit Tribe undertook collaborative research in historical ecology and archaeology in 2011–2014 including oral interviews with elders and subsistence providers, excavations at sealing sites, archaeofaunal analysis, historical and archival research, and consideration of climate cycles and biological regime shifts that influence the harbor seal population in the Gulf of Alaska. We compare technologies and hunting practices before and after Western contact, estimate harvest levels in different periods, and evaluate the effectiveness of traditional conservation practices that included hunting quotas enforced by clan leaders and the seasonal delay of hunting with firearms to prevent abandonment of the rookery by the seal herd.

Agential realism as an alternative philosophy of science perspective for quantitative psychology

This paper introduces Karen Barad’s philosophical framework of agential realism as an alternative philosophy of science perspective for quantitative psychology and measurement. Agential realism offers a rethinking of the research object, measurement process and outcome, causality, and the researcher’s responsibility by proposing an ethico-epistem-ontological understanding of material-discursive practices that co-construct our world. The contemporary, canonical underlying philosophy of science perspective of quantitative psychology entails entity realism, a difference between ontic existence and epistemic approaches, complete causality, and determinism. Consequently, the researcher has no responsibility for the characteristics of a research object. The paper introduces agential realism and its assumptions about rejecting entity realism but a particular understanding of phenomena, the entanglement of ontic existence and epistemic approaches, and the researcher’s role in co-creating an outcome. A reworking of the concept of causality implies newly emerging possibilities for realizations. Subsequently, the paper addresses four consequences of applying agential realism in quantitative psychology. (1) If there is indeterminacy in every phenomenon, researchers do not search for one true score but assume a realization potential, which has implications for comparisons and replications. (2) If configurations are part of things-in-phenomena, then context does not work as a third variable; instead, all ‘parts’ are co-creators. This entanglement must be considered in replications instead of trying to eliminate its impact. (3) Agential realism encompasses the researchers’ responsibility to justify decisions made in a research project and to clarify ethics. (4) Overall, agential realism alters the research endeavor by asking new questions and interpreting research outcomes differently. Further directions point towards concrete tasks like methodological questions and the necessity within psychology to elaborate further on the conceptualizations initiated by Barad.

Re-imagining the use of integrated assessment models from a social science perspective - lessons from the sustainable development pathways (SDP)

Abstract Socio-political factors in Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs), and their scenario narratives often lack transparency for policymakers and interdisciplinary scholars. As these tools increasingly support sustainable development goals, their assumptions and methodologies require scrutiny, particularly from social scientists. We address critiques of climate isolationism, overemphasis on technological transitions, and insufficient inter- and transdisciplinarity, advocating for robust interdisciplinary integration and clearer methodological transparency. Our recommendations stem from expert interviews and over 200 stakeholders across 30 countries from 2019 to 2024, emphasizing the need for cohesive theory and comprehensive social science engagement to refine these critical tools.
Our main case study uses a new scenario set, the Sustainable Development Pathways (SDPs), that made substantial efforts to address social sciences critiques. The SDPs consist of both narratives and IAM-quantified target-seeking scenarios that are supported by social science concepts and theories to ensure not only theoretical coherence, but also their credibility among policymakers. As such tools are increasingly used to facilitate policies and actions for sustainability transformation, questions are raised about how they can effectively represent the complexities behind the current polycrisis that is marked by the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, economic inequality and social injustice. 
The paper concludes by reflecting on the remaining challenges and open questions related to the role of exogenous sociopolitical factors, the potential for scenarios to transcend political ideologies, and the need for ongoing adaptation of SDPs to reflect the dynamic global context. It calls for continued engagement and exploration of these issues to ensure the scientific representation of sustainable and equitable futures.

Economic Value of Endangered Languages

In a world where more than half of the 6,500 languages are under the threat of extinction, this paper challenges the conventional view that language preservation lacks concrete economic benefits. Investigating the intricate relationships between monolingualism, cultural identity, and economic dynamics, it illuminates the diverse values that languages contribute to our global heritage. From communicative and emotional to ecological and scientific perspectives, the paper unveils the interconnectedness of linguistic diversity with biodiversity, influencing conservation efforts and ecological equilibrium. Case studies illustrate the economic implications of language loss in sectors like medicine, where traditional knowledge guides pharmaceutical development. Beyond direct monetary considerations, the exploration underscores the unexpected role of language in business, influencing international trade, collaboration, and workplace dynamics. Advocating for the economic value of investing in language resources, the article urges decision-makers to recognize the economic dimensions of endangered languages. The conclusion calls for a shift in perspective, positioning languages not merely as cultural assets but as vital economic factors. It encourages the integration of language preservation into national and international policies to safeguard global linguistic diversity.

Researcher identities and values in the impact agenda: the case of artificial intelligence academics

AbstractA major shift in the research sector has been the increased expectation from policymakers and funders that academic research should yield some socioeconomic benefits or ‘impacts’ rather than merely new knowledge. In this paper, we explore the role that impact has in academics’ motivations and values and how impact is being integrated into academics’ core functions of research and education. We do this through in-depth interviews (n = 60) with scientists who work on the development or application of artificial intelligence (AI), broadly defined. This AI’s focus situates our participants within a strategically important, high-priority area of research for all three national contexts included in our study—Australia, the UK and the USA. Our findings reveal that the impact mission has become central to understanding the motivations and values of academics, but unevenly. We identify divergence between those who work on AI from a foundational computer science perspective and those who develop and apply AI within other scientific domains. The two groups have different understandings of key notions such as ‘impact’ and ‘applied research’, as well as different ways of integrating the impact agenda into their research and education activities. The study highlights the importance of flexible approaches to research policy and governance that are based on a deeper understanding of what motivates researchers, and that take into account academics’ educational role. Greater holistic understanding of how academic identities and practices are accommodating the impact agenda is essential to maximise synergy across activities and avoid unintended consequences.

CRITICAL THINKING DEVELOPMENT AS A KEY COMPONENT OF SOFT SKILLS IN EDUCATION

According to the competencies outlined in the current Higher Education Standard for the specialty 221 “Dentistry” within the field of knowledge 22 “Health Care” at the second (Master’s) level, students must be able to think abstractly, analyze and synthesize information, and demonstrate critical and self-critical thinking. Both general and specialized (professional, subject-specific) competencies highlight the necessity for students to critically understand educational challenges. The interpretation of these concepts aligns with widely accepted philosophical, scientific, legislative, and social perspectives. In this context, it becomes essential to identify effective methods for developing critical thinking in students as a component of Soft Skills, and to implement these methods in undergraduate education. Critical thinking serves as a key component that enhances students’ motivation to learn and prepares them for independent work. It plays a crucial role in acquiring both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. In order to improve and to develop critical thinking, undergraduate students must be able to interpret, analyze, and compare patient information; generalize, evaluate, and logically draw well-supported conclusions from the data obtained during patient examinations. The teacher must foster critical thinking in students by utilizing the technology of developing critical thinking, which operates through specific phases: challenge, comprehension, and reflection. To effectively cultivate critical thinking skills in undergraduate students, it is recommended to apply methods such as professional situation analysis, empathy, constructing effective arguments, and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships. These approaches will help develop critical thinking as a key component of Soft Skills in students.

Externalization of the mind in the meaning-making process: An integrated semiotic and cognitive science perspective

Abstract This article seeks to outline the effective integration of semiotic methods, particularly the Peircean approach, with research on human creative cognition. The aim is to elucidate the involvement of the mind and neurological mechanisms in the process of semiosis. By examining how the mind externalizes thoughts and ideas, the article offers a fresh perspective on how external models and representations serve as essential anchors of meaning. Furthermore, this integrated approach provides a deeper understanding of how meaning is constructed and communicated, highlighting the importance of considering both internal cognitive processes and external manifestations in the study of semiotics.

Scientific Perspectives in the AI Era

Scientific Perspectives in the AI Era

Biothermodynamics of Hemoglobin and Red Blood Cells: Analysis of Structure and Evolution of Hemoglobin and Red Blood Cells, Based on Molecular and Empirical Formulas, Biosynthesis Reactions, and Thermodynamic Properties of Formation and Biosynthesis.

Hemoglobin and red blood cells (erythrocytes) have been studied extensively from the perspective of life and biomedical sciences. However, no analysis of hemoglobin and red blood cells from the perspective of chemical thermodynamics has been reported in the literature. Such an analysis would provide an insight into their structure and turnover from the aspect of biothermodynamics and bioenergetics. In this paper, a biothermodynamic analysis was made of hemoglobin and red blood cells. Molecular formulas, empirical formulas, biosynthesis reactions, and thermodynamic properties of formation and biosynthesis were determined for the alpha chain, beta chain, heme B, hemoglobin and red blood cells. Empirical formulas and thermodynamic properties of hemoglobin were compared to those of other biological macromolecules, which include proteins and nucleic acids. Moreover, the energetic requirements of biosynthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells were analyzed. Based on this, a discussion was made of the specific structure of red blood cells (i.e. no nuclei nor organelles) and its role as an evolutionary adaptation for more energetically efficient biosynthesis needed for the turnover of red blood cells.

Concentrated C2+ Alcohol Production Enabled by Post-Intermediate Modulation and Augmented CO Adsorption in CO Electrolysis.

The electrocatalytic synthesis of multicarbon products from CO2/CO feedstock represents a sustainable method for chemical production with a reduced carbon footprint. Traditional copper catalysts predominantly produce alkenes, but generating valuable and versatile C2+ alcohols, especially high-energy-density C3 alcohols, has been challenging due to issues with selectivity, activity, and stability. Here, we present the construction of Ru-doped Cu nanowires that enhance the selectivity of n-PrOH and C2+ alcohols. In situ Raman spectroscopy shows that our approach promotes both *CO binding and availability, particularly facilitating the formation of high-frequency-bound *CO (*COHFB) and maintaining multiple *CO adsorption modes on Ru-modified and bare low-coordinated Cu nanowires. Density-functional theory (DFT) simulations illustrate that introducing Ru species onto a low-coordinated Cu step surface simultaneously stabilizes CO and alcohol-related intermediates, shifting the dominant reaction pathway toward alcohols and facilitating CO-C2 coupling at the expense of ethylene selectivity. In an alkaline gas-diffusion electrolyzer, we attained a maximum Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 35.9% for n-PrOH and 62.4% for the total C2+ alcohols. Optimizing parameters in the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) system enabled the one-pot generation and separation of C2+ alcohols, achieving a record concentration of 18.8 wt % (4.2 wt % n-PrOH and 14.6 wt % EtOH) with nearly 100% purity at 200 mA/cm2 over 100 h. This work not only provides new insights and guidance for the development of future catalysts from the perspectives of surface science and mechanisms but also highlights the importance of coupling material engineering with reactor engineering to optimize the production process of high-value alcohol products.

Interactions Between Children in Educational Services and their Implications for Learning at the Preschool Education Level: A Literature Review

This research addresses the interactions of children at the preschool education level in educational services and their implications for or repercussions for learning. We aimed to determine the state of the art of interactions of children at the preschool education level in educational services and their implications for learning. The results of the bibliographic review indicate that this topic has been scientifically approached since 1975, with a growing and fluctuating trend. The countries that theoretically contribute the most to these topics are the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Canada, Italy, Taiwan, Brazil, Germany and Norway. Research results are shared through original scientific articles and are approached from the perspective of the social sciences, medicine and psychology. Finally, the clusters in the scientific maps show variables such as social interaction, education, learning, interpersonal relationships, emotions and cooperation. The analytical reading of the publications indicates the need for a comprehensive approach to children at the preschool education level in educational services, where it is key to educating children in the future. A broader approach that takes into account various needs, which involves social-emotional competencies for children, which are vital components of the comprehensive development of children, is needed. Received: 12 July 2024 / Accepted: 25 October 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024

Navigating the Privacy Paradox : Balancing AI Advancement and Data Protection in the Digital Age

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has ushered in an era of unprecedented data utilization, raising critical concerns about individual privacy. This article examines the complex interplay between AI development and data protection, exploring the challenges of balancing the need for large-scale data processing with the imperative to safeguard personal information. We analyze current regulatory frameworks, including GDPR and CCPA, and their efficacy in addressing AI-specific privacy issues. The article also evaluates technical measures such as differential privacy, federated learning, privacy-preserving machine learning algorithms, and organizational best practices for responsible data management. By synthesizing computer science, law, and ethics perspectives, we propose a multidisciplinary approach to fostering AI innovation while robustly protecting individual privacy rights. Our findings underscore the need for adaptive regulations, enhanced technical safeguards, and increased collaboration between stakeholders to navigate the evolving landscape of AI and privacy in the digital age.

Science in the Language of the Heart: Ukrainian Language and Literature in the New Ukrainiian School as a Driver of STEM Development

The article outlines the pathways for integrating STEM disciplines into the planning of Ukrainian language and literature lessons in secondary education institutions within the framework of the New Ukrainian School. It substantiates the growing need for interdisciplinary approaches that foster the development of core competencies while considering the advantages, potential risks, and limitations of the proposed methods. The emphasis is placed on the importance of combining humanities with natural and mathematical sciences to enhance students' understanding of a holistic worldview, illustrating the need to avoid focusing solely on one aspect of development (so-called «humanitarians» and «technocrats»). The article offers theoretical and practical recommendations for developing STEM projects that engage students in creative literary exploration through applying scientific principles and doctrines. The effective combination of STEM education principles with the field of philology enables the creation of a dynamic and effective educational environment where students perceive the interconnectedness of knowledge, develop a well-rounded intellect, and receive foundational preparation for higher education. Methods of linguistic analysis of scientific texts are discussed, demonstrating how language skills can be enhanced through scientific discourse. To illustrate the material, approximate schemes for planning integrated lessons with specific examples from both linguistic-literary and scientific perspectives are provided. To improve understanding and engagement of modern students, emphasis is placed on using digital tools and platforms that ensure integration, including online resources, interactive modeling, multimedia content and artificial intelligence. The necessity for alignment among educators of various disciplines is evident to ensure a fair assessment of proficiency in the state language and scientific literacy, which is a crucial issue during wartime when language matters become increasingly prominent, alongside scientific and mathematical literacy, for building an intellectually developed country.

To heal, grow, and thrive: Engaging Indigenous paradigms and perspectives in developmental science.

A focus on positive child development among Indigenous children has largely been absent from developmental science. In this special section of Child Development, we sought to address continuing inequity in representation and valuing Indigenous knowledge and voices by soliciting articles that identified cultural and strengths-based factors Indigenous children, youth, and families cultivate and leverage to promote positive development. In this introduction to the special section, we provide an overview of the four empirical articles included, with attention to the ways these articles advance Indigenous paradigms and methodologies by focusing on the unique histories and strengths of four distinct Indigenous communities. We end with a discussion of how to promote continued growth and inclusiveness in developmental science with Indigenous communities.

The mediating role of resilience in the relationship between meaning in life and attitude toward death among ICU nurses: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe majority of elderly individuals prefer to spend their final days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). ICU nurses are key providers in hospice care, and their attitudes toward death influence the quality of end-of-life nursing. Positive psychology emphasizes promoting positive attitudes toward death. A sense of meaning in life and resilience are critical aspects of positive psychology, which are essential for shaping ICU nurses’ attitudes toward death.ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate whether a sense of meaning in life indirectly affects attitudes toward death through the mediation of resilience.MethodA total of 212 ICU nurses from four tertiary general hospitals in Guangdong and Fujian provinces, China, participated in this study. They completed an online questionnaire, including the Death Attitude Profile-Revised, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the China Meaning in Life Questionnaire for ICU nurses.ResultsICU nurses scored highest in natural acceptance (3.26 ± 0.53), followed by escaping acceptance (2.54 ± 0.59), and fear of death (2.53 ± 0.78). The proposed model fit the data well. Both the presence of meaning and the search for meaning were positive predictors of resilience (β = 0.313, p < 0.05; β = 0.256, p < 0.05). Resilience, the presence of meaning, and the search for meaning positively predicted natural acceptance (β = 0.299, p < 0.05; β = 0.294, p < 0.05; β = 0.177, p < 0.05). Conversely, these factors negatively predicted fear of death (β = −0.179, p < 0.05; β = −0.251, p < 0.05; β = −0.192, p < 0.05) and escaping acceptance (β = −0.208, p < 0.05; β = −0.208, p < 0.05; β = −0.219, p < 0.05). Mediation analysis indicated that resilience had a partial mediating role.ConclusionThe presence of meaning and the search for meaning influence attitudes toward death, with resilience serving as a partial mediator. It is recommended that nursing administrators consider ICU nurses’ attitudes toward death and emphasize the importance of meaning in life and resilience in death education. This approach can help protect the psychological well-being of ICU nurses, promote a deeper understanding of life’s meaning, and develop a scientific perspective on death. Such measures are crucial for providing better humanistic care and psychological comfort to terminally ill patients and their families, thereby improving the quality of end-of-life care.

Science of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) is commonly encountered in daily medical practice. Approximately half of all patients with mild TBI develop postconcussional syndrome, and post-traumatic higher brain dysfunction is a cause of many social problems. This article defines and explains the diagnosis, pathology, symptoms, and sequelae of mild TBI from a scientific perspective, and "mild blast-induced TBI," which has recently become a major problem in military medicine, is also introduced.