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Non scholae sed vitae? The cognitive transfer effects of studying classical languages in flemish secondary education
No full textDit doctoraatsonderzoek is ontsproten uit het vraagstuk of Vlaamse leerlingen die in het secundair onderwijs voor een klassieketalenrichting kiezen (i.e., een studierichting met Latijn en/of Grieks) hier al dan niet bijzondere voordelen van ondervinden op vlak van met name Nederlandse moedertaalvaardigheid en algemeen-cognitieve vaardigheden. Het onderwijzen en leren van antieke talen in een moderne wereld staat al decennia of zelfs eeuwen ter discussie, en in vele landen wordt er duchtig gedebatteerd over de waarde van deze traditie (cf. Hoofdstuk 1). Enkele regelmatig aangehaalde argumenten pro komen erop neer dat het studeren van een klassieke taal nuttig zou zijn voor een reeks cognitieve vaardigheden, zowel talige als niet-talige. Ondanks een lange geschiedenis van onderzoek en een overweldigende hoeveelheid anekdotisch en tentatief bewijs dat Latijn leren een gunstig effect heeft op moedertaalvaardigheid, gold dit naar hedendaagse methodologische standaarden nog niet als wetenschappelijk bewezen (cf. Hoofdstuk 2). Een manier om de kwestie te bekijken is vanuit de cognitief-psychologische theorie van “transfer” tussen cognitieve domeinen (cf. Hoofdstuk 3). De structurele complexiteit van Latijn en Oudgrieks, samen met het feit dat ze niet als levende talen worden onderwezen, maakt het theoretisch alvast plausibel dat klassieketalenstudie cognitieve transfer zou kunnen teweegbrengen.Deze dissertatie brengt verslag uit van een grootschalige empirische studie naar de transferwaarde van klassieke talen, waarbij over een periode van drie jaar de cognitieve ontwikkeling van leerlingen Latijn en Grieks werd opgevolgd en vergeleken met die van leerlingen in andere algemene studierichtingen met doorstroomfinaliteit. Zoiets was in Vlaanderen nog nooit eerder gebeurd, en in het buitenland slechts in beperktere mate. Voor deze studie waren geschikte meetinstrumenten niet zomaar voorhanden. Daarom heb ik een Nederlandse taaltest ontwikkeld voor mijn doelgroep, voortbouwend op bestaande materialen (cf. Hoofdstuk 4). Ook heb ik meegewerkt aan de ontwikkeling van een algemeen-cognitieve test voor jongeren (Ch-ICAR, cf. Hoofdstuk 5), al werd uiteindelijk besloten voor deze studie een reeds bestaande intelligentietest te gebruiken (COVAT-3). Onderzoek verrichten in een schoolcontext is een enorme logistieke onderneming, maar de uitdagingen waarmee onderzoekers te maken krijgen zijn weinig bekend en worden dikwijls onderschat. Vandaar heb ik een praktische gids geschreven op basis van zowel literatuuronderzoek als eigen ervaringen (cf. Hoofdstuk 6). Verder bevat deze dissertatie een aanvullende studie naar de lesmethode Latijn in Vlaanderen (cf. Hoofdstuk 7). Uit een breed opgezette enquête wordt voor het eerst duidelijk dat de meerderheid van de leraren een versie gebruikt van de zogenaamde reading method, maar dat de hoeveelheid aandacht voor grammatica en de manier van teksten lezen sterk variëren. De eigenlijke studie naar transfer wordt beschreven in de laatste twee hoofdstukken. Hoofdstuk 8 bevat de details van de methode en statistische resultaten. Hoofdstuk 9 biedt een volledige en genuanceerde bespreking van de bevindingen. Er zijn geen aanwijzingen gevonden voor transfer naar niet-talige vaardigheden, maar de resultaten suggereren wel dat Latijn leren inderdaad bevorderlijk kan zijn voor Nederlandse taalvaardigheid. Dit onderzoek leert echter weinig over individuele verschillen in de mate van transfer, en verder onderzoek is nodig om meer uitsluitsel te bieden over welke taalaspecten vatbaar zijn voor transfer.This doctoral research originated from the question whether or not Flemish pupils who choose to study classical languages (i.e., Latin and/or Greek) in secondary education experience any extraordinary benefits thereof, especially in terms of native Dutch language proficiency and general-cognitive abilities.The teaching and learning of ancient languages in a modern world has been a matter of dispute for decades or even centuries, and in many countries the value of this tradition is heavily debated (cf. Chapter 1). Some frequently cited arguments pro imply that studying a classical language would be useful for a range of cognitive skills, linguistic and non-linguistic. Despite a long history of research and an overwhelming amount of anecdotal and tentative evidence that learning Latin has a positive effect on native language skills, according to present-day methodological standards this had not yet been scientifically proven (cf. Chapter 2). One way to approach the issue is through the cognitive-psychological theory of "transfer" between cognitive domains (cf. Chapter 3). The structural complexity of Latin and Ancient Greek, combined with the fact that they are not taught as living languages, makes it theoretically plausible that classical language study could lead to cognitive transfer.This dissertation reports on a large-scale empirical study on the transfer value of classical languages, in which over a three-year period the cognitive development of Latin and Greek pupils was tracked and compared with that of pupils in other general, academically-oriented study options. In Flanders, such a study had never been performed before, and abroad only to a more limited extent. Measuring instruments appropriate for this study were not readily available. Therefore, I developed a Dutch language test for my target group, building on existing materials (cf. Chapter 4). I also contributed to the development of a general-cognitive test for youngsters (Ch-ICAR, cf. Chapter 5), although ultimately an existing intelligence test was decided on for this study (COVAT-3). Conducting research in a school setting is a major logistical undertaking, but the challenges researchers face are not well-known and are often underestimated. Hence, I wrote a practical guide based on both a review of literature and personal experiences (cf. Chapter 6).Furthermore, this dissertation contains a complementary study on Latin teaching method in Flanders (cf. Chapter 7). A broad-based survey has shown for the first time that the majority of teachers use a version of the so-called reading method, but that the amount of emphasis placed on grammar and the way in which texts are read vary considerably. The actual study on transfer is described in the final two chapters. Chapter 8 presents the details of the method and statistical results. Chapter 9 discusses the findings in their full detail and nuance. No indications have been found for transfer to non-linguistic abilities, but the results do suggest that learning Latin can indeed be beneficial for Dutch language proficiency. This research reveals little about individual differences in the degree of transfer, however, and further research is needed to reach definitive conclusions about which language aspects are susceptible to transfer.Public defense: 2025-06-16Dit doctoraatsonderzoek is ontsproten uit het vraagstuk of Vlaamse leerlingen die in het secundair onderwijs voor een klassieketalenrichting kiezen (i.e., een studierichting met Latijn en/of Grieks) hier al dan niet bijzondere voordelen van ondervinden op vlak van met name Nederlandse moedertaalvaardigheid en algemeen-cognitieve vaardigheden. Het onderwijzen en leren van antieke talen in een moderne wereld staat al decennia of zelfs eeuwen ter discussie, en in vele landen wordt er duchtig gedebatteerd over de waarde van deze traditie (cf. Hoofdstuk 1). Enkele regelmatig aangehaalde argumenten pro komen erop neer dat het studeren van een klassieke taal nuttig zou zijn voor een reeks cognitieve vaardigheden, zowel talige als niet-talige. Ondanks een lange geschiedenis van onderzoek en een overweldigende hoeveelheid anekdotisch en tentatief bewijs dat Latijn leren een gunstig effect heeft op moedertaalvaardigheid, gold dit naar hedendaagse methodologische standaarden nog niet als wetenschappelijk bewezen (cf. Hoofdstuk 2). Een manier om de kwestie te bekijken is vanuit de cognitief-psychologische theorie van “transfer” tussen cognitieve domeinen (cf. Hoofdstuk 3). De structurele complexiteit van Latijn en Oudgrieks, samen met het feit dat ze niet als levende talen worden onderwezen, maakt het theoretisch alvast plausibel dat klassieketalenstudie cognitieve transfer zou kunnen teweegbrengen.Deze dissertatie brengt verslag uit van een grootschalige empirische studie naar de transferwaarde van klassieke talen, waarbij over een periode van drie jaar de cognitieve ontwikkeling van leerlingen Latijn en Grieks werd opgevolgd en vergeleken met die van leerlingen in andere algemene studierichtingen met doorstroomfinaliteit. Zoiets was in Vlaanderen nog nooit eerder gebeurd, en in het buitenland slechts in beperktere mate. Voor deze studie waren geschikte meetinstrumenten niet zomaar voorhanden. Daarom heb ik een Nederlandse taaltest ontwikkeld voor mijn doelgroep, voortbouwend op bestaande materialen (cf. Hoofdstuk 4). Ook heb ik meegewerkt aan de ontwikkeling van een algemeen-cognitieve test voor jongeren (Ch-ICAR, cf. Hoofdstuk 5), al werd uiteindelijk besloten voor deze studie een reeds bestaande intelligentietest te gebruiken (COVAT-3). Onderzoek verrichten in een schoolcontext is een enorme logistieke onderneming, maar de uitdagingen waarmee onderzoekers te maken krijgen zijn weinig bekend en worden dikwijls onderschat. Vandaar heb ik een praktische gids geschreven op basis van zowel literatuuronderzoek als eigen ervaringen (cf. Hoofdstuk 6). Verder bevat deze dissertatie een aanvullende studie naar de lesmethode Latijn in Vlaanderen (cf. Hoofdstuk 7). Uit een breed opgezette enquête wordt voor het eerst duidelijk dat de meerderheid van de leraren een versie gebruikt van de zogenaamde reading method, maar dat de hoeveelheid aandacht voor grammatica en de manier van teksten lezen sterk variëren. De eigenlijke studie naar transfer wordt beschreven in de laatste twee hoofdstukken. Hoofdstuk 8 bevat de details van de methode en statistische resultaten. Hoofdstuk 9 biedt een volledige en genuanceerde bespreking van de bevindingen. Er zijn geen aanwijzingen gevonden voor transfer naar niet-talige vaardigheden, maar de resultaten suggereren wel dat Latijn leren inderdaad bevorderlijk kan zijn voor Nederlandse taalvaardigheid. Dit onderzoek leert echter weinig over individuele verschillen in de mate van transfer, en verder onderzoek is nodig om meer uitsluitsel te bieden over welke taalaspecten vatbaar zijn voor transfer.This doctoral research originated from the question whether or not Flemish pupils who choose to study classical languages (i.e., Latin and/or Greek) in secondary education experience any extraordinary benefits thereof, especially in terms of native Dutch language proficiency and general-cognitive abilities.The teaching and learning of ancient languages in a modern world has been a matter of dispute for decades or even centuries, and in many countries the value of this tradition is heavily debated (cf. Chapter 1). Some frequently cited arguments pro imply that studying a classical language would be useful for a range of cognitive skills, linguistic and non-linguistic. Despite a long history of research and an overwhelming amount of anecdotal and tentative evidence that learning Latin has a positive effect on native language skills, according to present-day methodological standards this had not yet been scientifically proven (cf. Chapter 2). One way to approach the issue is through the cognitive-psychological theory of "transfer" between cognitive domains (cf. Chapter 3). The structural complexity of Latin and Ancient Greek, combined with the fact that they are not taught as living languages, makes it theoretically plausible that classical language study could lead to cognitive transfer.This dissertation reports on a large-scale empirical study on the transfer value of classical languages, in which over a three-year period the cognitive development of Latin and Greek pupils was tracked and compared with that of pupils in other general, academically-oriented study options. In Flanders, such a study had never been performed before, and abroad only to a more limited extent. Measuring instruments appropriate for this study were not readily available. Therefore, I developed a Dutch language test for my target group, building on existing materials (cf. Chapter 4). I also contributed to the development of a general-cognitive test for youngsters (Ch-ICAR, cf. Chapter 5), although ultimately an existing intelligence test was decided on for this study (COVAT-3). Conducting research in a school setting is a major logistical undertaking, but the challenges researchers face are not well-known and are often underestimated. Hence, I wrote a practical guide based on both a review of literature and personal experiences (cf. Chapter 6).Furthermore, this dissertation contains a complementary study on Latin teaching method in Flanders (cf. Chapter 7). A broad-based survey has shown for the first time that the majority of teachers use a version of the so-called reading method, but that the amount of emphasis placed on grammar and the way in which texts are read vary considerably. The actual study on transfer is described in the final two chapters. Chapter 8 presents the details of the method and statistical results. Chapter 9 discusses the findings in their full detail and nuance. No indications have been found for transfer to non-linguistic abilities, but the results do suggest that learning Latin can indeed be beneficial for Dutch language proficiency. This research reveals little about individual differences in the degree of transfer, however, and further research is needed to reach definitive conclusions about which language aspects are susceptible to transfer.D
The link between need frustration and empathic accuracy in romantic relationships
No full textThe frustration of relational needs is a common source of conflict in romantic relationships. Empathic accuracy (EA) defined as the ability to accurately perceive and understand a partner's thoughts and feelings plays a key role in resolving these conflicts. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that need frustration and EA are associated both within individuals and between romantic partners during actual conflict interactions. Data were analyzed from a lab-based conflict interaction study conducted in 2014, which included a video-mediated recall task. Results from two cross-sectional actor-partner interdependence models revealed that women's EA was positively associated with their male partner's need frustration at the start of the conflict, but this association was no longer present by the end. Additionally, women's EA was marginally negatively associated with their own need frustration at both the start and end of the conflict interaction. These findings highlight the complex and dynamic nature of the relationship of need frustration and EA during couples' actual conflict interactions. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms driving these associations over time.The frustration of relational needs is a common source of conflict in romantic relationships. Empathic accuracy (EA) defined as the ability to accurately perceive and understand a partner's thoughts and feelings plays a key role in resolving these conflicts. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that need frustration and EA are associated both within individuals and between romantic partners during actual conflict interactions. Data were analyzed from a lab-based conflict interaction study conducted in 2014, which included a video-mediated recall task. Results from two cross-sectional actor-partner interdependence models revealed that women's EA was positively associated with their male partner's need frustration at the start of the conflict, but this association was no longer present by the end. Additionally, women's EA was marginally negatively associated with their own need frustration at both the start and end of the conflict interaction. These findings highlight the complex and dynamic nature of the relationship of need frustration and EA during couples' actual conflict interactions. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms driving these associations over time.A
Liefde als lokaas : een crime script analyse van online romance scams
No full textOnline romance scams (ofwel online datingfraude) zijn een geavanceerde en groeiende vorm van digitale fraude, waarbij scammers online identiteiten creëren om slachtoffers te manipuleren en emotionele banden met hen op te bouwen, met als uiteindelijk doel financiële uitbuiting. Deze scams nemen in omvang toe en veroorzaken zowel aanzienlijke financiële verliezen als blijvende psychologische schade. Alleen al in 2024 verloren slachtoffers in Nederland meer dan 9 miljoen euro aan deze oplichtingspraktijken. Scammers hanteren misleidende tactieken om vertrouwen te winnen en slachtoffers over te halen om geld testuren. Deze studie presenteert een uitgebreide crime script analyse om de operationele structuur van online romance scams systematisch in kaart te brengen. Op basis van een scoping review van 51 studies identificeren we de belangrijkste scènes en acties binnen het scamproces. Online romance scams volgen doorgaans een opeenvolging van de volgende scènes: (1) voorbereiding; (2) targetselectie; (3) initiatie van contact; (4) transitie naar privékanalen; (5) grooming; (6) de list; (7) financiële transactie; (8) het uitknijpen; en (9) de nasleep, die in veel gevallen revictimisatie behelst. Onze bevindingen benadrukken degestructureerde, maar flexibele aard van deze scams, waarbij daders hun strategieën aanpassen op basis van de reacties van slachtoffers. De analyse toont ook aan dat deze scams niet-lineair en iteratief verlopen – wanneer slachtoffers financiële verzoeken weigeren, grijpen scammers vaak terug op eerdere tactieken om de emotionele afhankelijkheid te versterken, voordat ze opnieuw een poging tot uitbuiting doen. Naast de theoretische bijdrage biedt deze analyse concrete inzichten voor interventie.Online romance scams (ofwel online datingfraude) zijn een geavanceerde en groeiende vorm van digitale fraude, waarbij scammers online identiteiten creëren om slachtoffers te manipuleren en emotionele banden met hen op te bouwen, met als uiteindelijk doel financiële uitbuiting. Deze scams nemen in omvang toe en veroorzaken zowel aanzienlijke financiële verliezen als blijvende psychologische schade. Alleen al in 2024 verloren slachtoffers in Nederland meer dan 9 miljoen euro aan deze oplichtingspraktijken. Scammers hanteren misleidende tactieken om vertrouwen te winnen en slachtoffers over te halen om geld testuren. Deze studie presenteert een uitgebreide crime script analyse om de operationele structuur van online romance scams systematisch in kaart te brengen. Op basis van een scoping review van 51 studies identificeren we de belangrijkste scènes en acties binnen het scamproces. Online romance scams volgen doorgaans een opeenvolging van de volgende scènes: (1) voorbereiding; (2) targetselectie; (3) initiatie van contact; (4) transitie naar privékanalen; (5) grooming; (6) de list; (7) financiële transactie; (8) het uitknijpen; en (9) de nasleep, die in veel gevallen revictimisatie behelst. Onze bevindingen benadrukken degestructureerde, maar flexibele aard van deze scams, waarbij daders hun strategieën aanpassen op basis van de reacties van slachtoffers. De analyse toont ook aan dat deze scams niet-lineair en iteratief verlopen – wanneer slachtoffers financiële verzoeken weigeren, grijpen scammers vaak terug op eerdere tactieken om de emotionele afhankelijkheid te versterken, voordat ze opnieuw een poging tot uitbuiting doen. Naast de theoretische bijdrage biedt deze analyse concrete inzichten voor interventie.C
Language choices in crisis communication : perspectives from public relations and legal practitioners
No full textIn responding to crises, organizations should not only select the most appropriate crisis response strategy, but also express it in the most impactful way. Although the specific wording of a crisis message is important to consider, research on this topic remains limited. To address this gap, this study conducted 49 in-depth interviews with crisis communication practitioners to gain their perspective on the role of language in crisis communication. We examined the extent to which practitioners value language in crafting crisis messages, the specific linguistic strategies they employ, and the rationale behind their choices. Moreover, this study looked beyond the public relations perspective and included a legal perspective as well. The findings of this study provide valuable insights to further theorize about the role of language in crisis communication and inspire new avenues for future research.In responding to crises, organizations should not only select the most appropriate crisis response strategy, but also express it in the most impactful way. Although the specific wording of a crisis message is important to consider, research on this topic remains limited. To address this gap, this study conducted 49 in-depth interviews with crisis communication practitioners to gain their perspective on the role of language in crisis communication. We examined the extent to which practitioners value language in crafting crisis messages, the specific linguistic strategies they employ, and the rationale behind their choices. Moreover, this study looked beyond the public relations perspective and included a legal perspective as well. The findings of this study provide valuable insights to further theorize about the role of language in crisis communication and inspire new avenues for future research.C
Optimizing world-record thin-film ACIGS solar cells with innovative 'hockey stick'-shaped GGI profile for tandem solar technology
No full textIn this study, we perform a comprehensive optimization of key parameters influencing the performance of ACIGS (Ag-doped Cu(In,Ga)Se2) solar cells, focusing on the effects of deposition environment and techniques. Parameters such as absorber thickness, dopant concentration, electron affinity, bulk defect density, and interface trap density are analyzed using advanced TCAD simulations. A calibrated device model based on experimental data accounts for all relevant material properties and defect distributions. Our findings reveal that minimizing bulk and interface defects primarily induced by deposition conditions is critical to enhancing stability and performance. Under standard test conditions (AM1.5G, 25 degrees C), the reference and optimized ACIGS single-junction cells achieve power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 23.60 % and 25.80 %, respectively. Furthermore, under varying temperatures (20-90 degrees C) and illumination intensities (10-120 mW/cm2), the optimized cell demonstrates notable improvements: a 15 % enhancement in power temperature coefficient and a 22 % increase in voltage temperature coefficient. For tandem configurations, we pair the optimized ACIGS bottom cell featuring a double gallium grading profile with a perovskite top cell (bandgap approximate to 1.70 eV). This results in PCEs of 31.92 % and 32.39 % for tandem devices using ITO and band-to-band tunneling (B2BT) interconnections, respectively, under AM1.5G illumination. The results are benchmarked against recent studies, providing valuable insights into advanced strategies and the physical behavior of high-efficiency tandem perovskite/ACIGS solar cells.In this study, we perform a comprehensive optimization of key parameters influencing the performance of ACIGS (Ag-doped Cu(In,Ga)Se2) solar cells, focusing on the effects of deposition environment and techniques. Parameters such as absorber thickness, dopant concentration, electron affinity, bulk defect density, and interface trap density are analyzed using advanced TCAD simulations. A calibrated device model based on experimental data accounts for all relevant material properties and defect distributions. Our findings reveal that minimizing bulk and interface defects primarily induced by deposition conditions is critical to enhancing stability and performance. Under standard test conditions (AM1.5G, 25 degrees C), the reference and optimized ACIGS single-junction cells achieve power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 23.60 % and 25.80 %, respectively. Furthermore, under varying temperatures (20-90 degrees C) and illumination intensities (10-120 mW/cm2), the optimized cell demonstrates notable improvements: a 15 % enhancement in power temperature coefficient and a 22 % increase in voltage temperature coefficient. For tandem configurations, we pair the optimized ACIGS bottom cell featuring a double gallium grading profile with a perovskite top cell (bandgap approximate to 1.70 eV). This results in PCEs of 31.92 % and 32.39 % for tandem devices using ITO and band-to-band tunneling (B2BT) interconnections, respectively, under AM1.5G illumination. The results are benchmarked against recent studies, providing valuable insights into advanced strategies and the physical behavior of high-efficiency tandem perovskite/ACIGS solar cells.A
The Dual Impact of Age on Intercultural Interactions
No full textObjective. Over the paste decades, workplaces have become increasingly diverse and it has been suggested that older workers might face difficulties adapting to that. This study investigates how older (vs. younger) employees react towards intercultural conflicts. Understanding age-related differences in work settings can guide effective DEI policies. Therefore, this study examines the role of age in intercultural effectiveness, focusing on the ability to inhibit ineffective behaviors during intercultural interactions in work-related settings. Method. In total, 288 employees (35,8% men, M-age = 34y, SD-age= 13,8y) completed the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire - Short Form (MPQ-SF), the Ethnocentrism-Ethnorelativism Continuum (ECER), the Adapted Self-Report CQ Scale (CQ), and the Direct Intercultural Effectiveness Stimulation (DIES). DIES is a domain-general SJT, measuring how effective individuals respond to intercultural situations, resulting in three scores (one total score, one for effective and one for ineffective responses). Correlation analyses and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were conducted to investigate relationships between age, intercultural effectiveness, and the components of intercultural competence.Results. Age related negatively (r = -.39, p < 0.01) with total intercultural effectiveness and positively (r = .46, p < 0.01) with intercultural ineffectiveness, suggesting that older employees struggle more with inhibiting ineffective behaviors in intercultural interactions. SEM further showed that increased age directly led to higher intercultural ineffectiveness. Indirectly, age fostered more ethnocentric attitudes, which decreased ethnorelativism and further contributed to intercultural ineffectiveness.Conclusions. These findings highlight the importance of both direct and indirect pathways in understanding how age shapes intercultural (in)effectiveness at work. Age-specific interventions addressing both inhibitory control and ethnocentric attitudes may be beneficial for improving intercultural effectiveness, especially among older workers. Future research should explore additional factors, such as life experiences and socioeconomic background, that may interact with age to shape intercultural behavior over time.Objective. Over the paste decades, workplaces have become increasingly diverse and it has been suggested that older workers might face difficulties adapting to that. This study investigates how older (vs. younger) employees react towards intercultural conflicts. Understanding age-related differences in work settings can guide effective DEI policies. Therefore, this study examines the role of age in intercultural effectiveness, focusing on the ability to inhibit ineffective behaviors during intercultural interactions in work-related settings. Method. In total, 288 employees (35,8% men, M-age = 34y, SD-age= 13,8y) completed the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire - Short Form (MPQ-SF), the Ethnocentrism-Ethnorelativism Continuum (ECER), the Adapted Self-Report CQ Scale (CQ), and the Direct Intercultural Effectiveness Stimulation (DIES). DIES is a domain-general SJT, measuring how effective individuals respond to intercultural situations, resulting in three scores (one total score, one for effective and one for ineffective responses). Correlation analyses and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were conducted to investigate relationships between age, intercultural effectiveness, and the components of intercultural competence.Results. Age related negatively (r = -.39, p < 0.01) with total intercultural effectiveness and positively (r = .46, p < 0.01) with intercultural ineffectiveness, suggesting that older employees struggle more with inhibiting ineffective behaviors in intercultural interactions. SEM further showed that increased age directly led to higher intercultural ineffectiveness. Indirectly, age fostered more ethnocentric attitudes, which decreased ethnorelativism and further contributed to intercultural ineffectiveness.Conclusions. These findings highlight the importance of both direct and indirect pathways in understanding how age shapes intercultural (in)effectiveness at work. Age-specific interventions addressing both inhibitory control and ethnocentric attitudes may be beneficial for improving intercultural effectiveness, especially among older workers. Future research should explore additional factors, such as life experiences and socioeconomic background, that may interact with age to shape intercultural behavior over time.
Operating characteristics of nebulizers used for intraperitoneal aerosolized drug delivery
No full textIntraperitoneal aerosolized drug delivery (IPADD) is a minimally invasive technique for treating peritoneal metastasis (PM), combining laparoscopy with locoregional chemotherapy delivery as an aerosol. This study investigated key operating and physical parameters affecting IPADD performance, focusing on aerosolization pressure, droplet size distribution (DSD), and spray cone angle using six commercialized nebulizers: Nebulizer 770-12 (REGER Medizintechnik), CapnoPen (TM)(CapnoPharm), HurriChem (TM) (ThermaSolutions), MCR-4 TOPOL (TM) (Skala), QuattroJet (TM) (REGER Medizintechnik), and MiniJet (REGER Medizintechnik) in a reconstructed peritoneal cavity model. Results indicated notable variations in nebulizer performance. Nebulizer 770-12, CapnoPen, and HurriChem showed similar technical characteristics and reliable performance. DSD analysis showed bimodal distributions, with MiniJet and HurriChem producing small droplets (10-20 mu m), while MCR-4 TOPOL generated larger droplets due to its larger orifice and distinctive design. Spray cone angle measurements demonstrated that higher flow rates slightly improved dispersion, with the MCR-4 TOPOL achieving the widest angles. Optimal flow rates for uniform spray patterns varied, with CapnoPen and HurriChem performing well at lower rates, while MCR-4 TOPOL and QuattroJet required higher flow rates (>1.0 mL/s). This comprehensive evaluation provides valuable insights to optimize nebulizer selection and aerosolized drug delivery for improved IPADD efficacy.Intraperitoneal aerosolized drug delivery (IPADD) is a minimally invasive technique for treating peritoneal metastasis (PM), combining laparoscopy with locoregional chemotherapy delivery as an aerosol. This study investigated key operating and physical parameters affecting IPADD performance, focusing on aerosolization pressure, droplet size distribution (DSD), and spray cone angle using six commercialized nebulizers: Nebulizer 770-12 (REGER Medizintechnik), CapnoPen (TM)(CapnoPharm), HurriChem (TM) (ThermaSolutions), MCR-4 TOPOL (TM) (Skala), QuattroJet (TM) (REGER Medizintechnik), and MiniJet (REGER Medizintechnik) in a reconstructed peritoneal cavity model. Results indicated notable variations in nebulizer performance. Nebulizer 770-12, CapnoPen, and HurriChem showed similar technical characteristics and reliable performance. DSD analysis showed bimodal distributions, with MiniJet and HurriChem producing small droplets (10-20 mu m), while MCR-4 TOPOL generated larger droplets due to its larger orifice and distinctive design. Spray cone angle measurements demonstrated that higher flow rates slightly improved dispersion, with the MCR-4 TOPOL achieving the widest angles. Optimal flow rates for uniform spray patterns varied, with CapnoPen and HurriChem performing well at lower rates, while MCR-4 TOPOL and QuattroJet required higher flow rates (>1.0 mL/s). This comprehensive evaluation provides valuable insights to optimize nebulizer selection and aerosolized drug delivery for improved IPADD efficacy.A
Integrated control of seafood safety and quality beyond farm-to-fork : AI-related opportunities and challenges
No full textSeafood is a diverse and highly valuable source of nutritional benefits that can support healthy diets around the world. However, the uptake of toxic compounds from aquatic ecosystems into seafood products together with food-borne risks introduced throughout the seafood chain, pose a global threat to public health. Effectively managing seafood hazards and optimizing consumer health requires looking beyond the conventional farm-to-fork chain. This commentary aims to explore a “beyond farm-to-fork” framework, addressing key elements to ensure safe, high-quality seafood. Recent advancements in smart food safety technologies use artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance food product safety and quality. However, an integrated perspective on AI-related applications along and beyond the seafood chain has yet to be provided. Building on the “beyond farm-to-fork” framework, we highlight key AI-related opportunities and challenges for integrated control of seafood systems. To conclude, we provide guidance, production regulations and policy recommendations for AI-use and consumer health, at all levels “beyond farm-to-fork”. Our findings underscore the critical interplay between the location and environmental conditions of seafood production, alongside individual consumer characteristics, in achieving integrated control of seafood quality. AI-related technologies such as the Internet of Things, sensors, machine learning, and blockchain can enable early risk detection, mitigation, and control, reducing health risks from pollutants and foodborne illnesses while enhancing nutritional quality. AI can simplify consumer choices in favour of both individual health and the sustainability of food production. Traceability systems and FAIR data, integrated with further AI developments, can empower seafood stakeholders to ensure product quality and safeguard consumer health.Seafood is a diverse and highly valuable source of nutritional benefits that can support healthy diets around the world. However, the uptake of toxic compounds from aquatic ecosystems into seafood products together with food-borne risks introduced throughout the seafood chain, pose a global threat to public health. Effectively managing seafood hazards and optimizing consumer health requires looking beyond the conventional farm-to-fork chain. This commentary aims to explore a “beyond farm-to-fork” framework, addressing key elements to ensure safe, high-quality seafood. Recent advancements in smart food safety technologies use artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance food product safety and quality. However, an integrated perspective on AI-related applications along and beyond the seafood chain has yet to be provided. Building on the “beyond farm-to-fork” framework, we highlight key AI-related opportunities and challenges for integrated control of seafood systems. To conclude, we provide guidance, production regulations and policy recommendations for AI-use and consumer health, at all levels “beyond farm-to-fork”. Our findings underscore the critical interplay between the location and environmental conditions of seafood production, alongside individual consumer characteristics, in achieving integrated control of seafood quality. AI-related technologies such as the Internet of Things, sensors, machine learning, and blockchain can enable early risk detection, mitigation, and control, reducing health risks from pollutants and foodborne illnesses while enhancing nutritional quality. AI can simplify consumer choices in favour of both individual health and the sustainability of food production. Traceability systems and FAIR data, integrated with further AI developments, can empower seafood stakeholders to ensure product quality and safeguard consumer health.A
BELGIUM: Bill for the transposition of the EU Anti-SLAPP Directive
No full textBelgium is one of the first EU-countries where a proposal of a model law has been elaborated, providing a solid basic text for an initiative by government and parliament for the transposition of the anti-SLAPP Directive 2024/1069 of 11 April 2024 on protecting persons who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded claims or abusive court pro-ceedings. The proposal also integrates some of the provisions of the anti-SLAPP Recommendations of the European Commission and of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. The model law is an initiative of the Belgian anti-SLAPP working group that has been monitoring developments related to SLAPPs in Europe and in Belgium since 2023. The model law opts for a broader approach than the strict transposition of the Directive into Belgian law at two levels: not only does it seek to apply to SLAPPs of a cross-border nature, but also to SLAPPs where both claimant and defendant are domiciled in Belgium, without any cross-border impact. In addition to civil proceedings, the model law also seeks to apply to SLAPPs through criminal proceedings.Belgium is one of the first EU-countries where a proposal of a model law has been elaborated, providing a solid basic text for an initiative by government and parliament for the transposition of the anti-SLAPP Directive 2024/1069 of 11 April 2024 on protecting persons who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded claims or abusive court pro-ceedings. The proposal also integrates some of the provisions of the anti-SLAPP Recommendations of the European Commission and of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. The model law is an initiative of the Belgian anti-SLAPP working group that has been monitoring developments related to SLAPPs in Europe and in Belgium since 2023. The model law opts for a broader approach than the strict transposition of the Directive into Belgian law at two levels: not only does it seek to apply to SLAPPs of a cross-border nature, but also to SLAPPs where both claimant and defendant are domiciled in Belgium, without any cross-border impact. In addition to civil proceedings, the model law also seeks to apply to SLAPPs through criminal proceedings.
Cross-cultural adaptation and clinical validation of TIME criteria to detect potentially inappropriate medication use in older adults : methodological report from the TIME International Study Group
No full textBackground: Various explicit screening tools, developed mostly in central Europe and the United States, assist clinicians in optimizing medication use for older adults. The Turkish Inappropriate Medication use in oldEr adults (TIME) criteria set, primarily based on the STOPP/START criteria set, is a current explicit tool originally developed for Eastern Europe and subsequently validated for broader use in Central European settings. Reviewed every three months to align with the latest scientific literature, it is one of the most up-to-date tools available. The tool is accessible via a free mobile app and website platforms, ensuring convenience for clinicians and timely integration of updates as needed. Healthcare providers often prefer to use their native language in medical practice, highlighting the need for prescribing tools to be translated and adapted into multiple languages to promote optimal medication practices. Objective: To describe the protocol for cross-cultural and language validation of the TIME criteria in various commonly used languages and to outline its protocol for clinical validation across different healthcare settings.Methods: Twenty-four geriatric pharmacotherapy experts from 12 countries constituted the TIME International Study Group. In selecting the framework for the study, we reviewed the steps and outcomes from previous research on cross-cultural adaptations and clinical validations of explicit tools. Assessment tools were selected based on both their validity in accurately addressing the relevant issues and their feasibility for practical implementation. The drafted methodology paper was circulated among the study group members for feedback and revisions leading to a final consensus.Results: The research methodology consists of two phases. Cross-cultural adaptation/language validation phase follows the eight-step approach recommended by World Health Organization. This phase allows regions or countries to make modifications to existing criteria or introduce new ones based on local prescribing practices and available medications, as long as these adjustments are supported by current scientific evidence. The second phase involves the clinical validation, where participants will be randomized into two groups. The control group will receive standard care, while the intervention group will have their treatment evaluated by clinicians who will review the TIME criteria and consider its recommendations. A variety of patient outcomes (i.e. number of hospital admissions, quality of life, number of regular medications (including over the counter medications), geriatric syndromes and mortality) in different healthcare settings will be investigated. Conclusion: The outputs of this methodological report are expected to promote broader adoption of the TIME criteria. Studies building on this work are anticipated to enhance the identification and management of inappropriate medication use and contribute to improved patient outcomes.Background: Various explicit screening tools, developed mostly in central Europe and the United States, assist clinicians in optimizing medication use for older adults. The Turkish Inappropriate Medication use in oldEr adults (TIME) criteria set, primarily based on the STOPP/START criteria set, is a current explicit tool originally developed for Eastern Europe and subsequently validated for broader use in Central European settings. Reviewed every three months to align with the latest scientific literature, it is one of the most up-to-date tools available. The tool is accessible via a free mobile app and website platforms, ensuring convenience for clinicians and timely integration of updates as needed. Healthcare providers often prefer to use their native language in medical practice, highlighting the need for prescribing tools to be translated and adapted into multiple languages to promote optimal medication practices. Objective: To describe the protocol for cross-cultural and language validation of the TIME criteria in various commonly used languages and to outline its protocol for clinical validation across different healthcare settings.Methods: Twenty-four geriatric pharmacotherapy experts from 12 countries constituted the TIME International Study Group. In selecting the framework for the study, we reviewed the steps and outcomes from previous research on cross-cultural adaptations and clinical validations of explicit tools. Assessment tools were selected based on both their validity in accurately addressing the relevant issues and their feasibility for practical implementation. The drafted methodology paper was circulated among the study group members for feedback and revisions leading to a final consensus.Results: The research methodology consists of two phases. Cross-cultural adaptation/language validation phase follows the eight-step approach recommended by World Health Organization. This phase allows regions or countries to make modifications to existing criteria or introduce new ones based on local prescribing practices and available medications, as long as these adjustments are supported by current scientific evidence. The second phase involves the clinical validation, where participants will be randomized into two groups. The control group will receive standard care, while the intervention group will have their treatment evaluated by clinicians who will review the TIME criteria and consider its recommendations. A variety of patient outcomes (i.e. number of hospital admissions, quality of life, number of regular medications (including over the counter medications), geriatric syndromes and mortality) in different healthcare settings will be investigated. Conclusion: The outputs of this methodological report are expected to promote broader adoption of the TIME criteria. Studies building on this work are anticipated to enhance the identification and management of inappropriate medication use and contribute to improved patient outcomes.A