26729 research outputs found
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The machine psychology of cooperation: can GPT models operationalise prompts for altruism, cooperation, competitiveness, and selfishness in economic games?
Get PDFLarge language models (LLMs) are capable of playing the "human" role as participants in economic games. We investigated the capability of GPT-3.5 to play the one-shot Dictator Game (DG) and the repeated Prisoner's Dilemma game (PDG), the latter of which introduced tit-for-tat scenarios. In particular, we investigated whether the LLMs could be prompted to play in accordance to five roles ("personalities") assigned prior to game play: the five "simulacra" were: (1) cooperative, (2) competitive, (3) altruistic, (4) selfish, and (5) control, all of which were natural language descriptions ("ruthless equities trader...", "selfless philanthropist...", etc.). We predicted that the LLM-participant would play in accordance to the semantic content of the prompt (ruthless would play ruthlessly, etc.). Across five simulacra (roles), we tested the AI equivalent of 450 human participants (32,400 observations in total, qua counterbalancing and re-testability). Using a general linear mixed model (GLMM) for the PDG, and a cumulative link mixed model (CLMM) for the DG, we found that level of cooperation/donation followed the general pattern of altruistic ≥ cooperative > control > selfish ≥ competitive. We proposed ten hypotheses, three of which were convincingly supported: cooperative/altruistic did cooperate more than competitive/selfish; cooperation was higher in repeated games (PDG); cooperative/altruistic were sensitive to the opponent's behaviour in repeated games. We also found some variation among the three versions of GPT-3.5 we used. Our study demonstrates the potential of using prompt engineering for LLM-chatbots to study the mechanisms of cooperation in both real and artificial worlds
Mechanical determinants of superior horizontal deceleration performance in multidirectional sportspersons
No full textThis study aimed to (a) examine the mechanical determinants of superior horizontal deceleration, and (b) compare ground reaction force (GRF) characteristics of the first and second braking foot contacts during horizontal deceleration between higher and lower deceleration performers. Forty-two trained males from multidirectional team sports performed three maximal deceleration trials following a 15 m sprint, with GRF data over the first two braking steps collected using force plates. Horizontal velocity was collected using a radar gun and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Greater mean and peak deceleration were statistically significantly correlated with greater mean horizontal GRF ratio at both braking foot contacts (ρ = 0.31-0.49, p < 0.05). Comparing lower mean and peak deceleration performers, greater performers displayed statistically significantly greater mean horizontal GRF ratios at both braking steps (ES = 3.53-5.00, p < 0.05), and lower approach momentum (ES = 0.62-0.66). Compared to lower approach momentum performers, greater performers displayed statistically significantly greater mean and peak deceleration scores (ES = 0.62-0.70, p < 0.05). Practitioners should aim to maximize horizontal GRF production and orientate force more horizontally for more effective deceleration. However, faster approach velocities, especially when accompanied with greater body mass (and thus momentum), will likely see a reduction in deceleration performance on account of higher braking demands. This is likely an unavoidable paradox and thus deceleration performance must always be presented considering approach velocity and momentum
Issues with using police data to investigate offending: a research perspective
Get PDFPolice data is an important source of information for researchers about investigations, suspects, and victims. However, crime records can be problematic to work with. Here we outline three key issues along with our approach. We discuss data quality, which reflects missing and misclassified values; inconsistency, which refers to the vague and at times different definitions provided; and granularity, which reflects the lack of detailed information included in the datasets. We recommend developing a robust strategy for working with missing data, triangulating across different sources, creating higher-order categories where necessary, and creating a detailed data governance plan before analysis begins
The Nordic model of HRM from 1995-2021– a case of ‘bounded change’?
Get PDFThe aim of this comparative study is to investigate the degree of continuity in the distinctiveness of private-sector Nordic HRM in terms of calculative and collaborative HRM in relation to the prototypical liberal market economy – the UK – and the prototypical coordinated market economy – Germany. Our analysis employs firm-level data from the Cranet survey for the period 1995-2021. In line with institutional theory and its concept of ‘bounded change’ our findings indicate that, notwithstanding structural change and institutional developments, the Nordic countries continue to be characterized by a relatively low adoption of calculative HRM and a relatively high adoption of collaborative HRM. As such, they continue to constitute a cluster of countries that is distinctive in relation to both the UK and Germany
Strength and conditioning for volleyball: a review
No full textVolleyball, with its global popularity and rigorous competition schedules, presents unique challenges in athlete conditioning and injury prevention. This narrative review synthesizes the current understanding of the physical demands and injury risks associated with elite volleyball play, offering a detailed analysis of match play dynamics and prevalent injury mechanisms. It emphasizes the important role of strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches in developing training programs to enhance performance and mitigate injury risks through strategic exercise selection and periodization. The review provides a thorough needs analysis, highlighting specific conditioning requirements for different player positions and detailing effective physical testing protocols. Recommendations are made for implementing structured S&C programs, which are vital for preparing athletes for the physical challenges of competitive volleyball. Practical guidelines are outlined for S&C coaches to optimize training outcomes, including suggestions for drill sequences and conditioning routines that reflect the sport-specific demands of volleyball. Thus, this review aims to equip coaches, trainers, and athletes with the knowledge and tools necessary to elevate their performance and safeguard against injuries, thereby contributing to the advancement and sustainability of volleyball as a high-intensity competitive spor
Analyse, Bewertung und Steuerung der durch die Implementierung von Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in deutschen Großbanken entstehenden operationellen Risiken – Eine theoretische Konzeption, empirische Evaluierung und anwendungsorientierte Gestaltung
No full textThe largest German banks, as leaders in the country's banking landscape, face a critical juncture where tradition intersects with digitalization. Navigating this transformation is crucial for maintaining relevance while meeting the growing demand for seamless digital services. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is seen as a promising solution for enhancing efficiency and fostering innovation. However, the associated automation risks require proper risk management. This research examines the intersection of RPA and operational risk management, investigating how established risk management frameworks can be applied to the RPA lifecycle without compromising compliance or overcomplicating processes. Emphasizing a comprehensive risk management approach, this case study covers the entire process from identification to control, ensuring a more integrated and effective risk management by addressing each phase holistically.
The theoretical section identifies 30 risk scenarios within the RPA lifecycle and outlines 17 Success Factors (SFs) essential for realizing RPA benefits by directly or indirectly impacting the return on investment (ROI). These elements form the foundation for the empirical study, which is conducted as a mixed-methods case study.
In Part A of this study, data from 200 real-world RPA use cases across six ECB-supervised German banks were analyzed using SPSS, identifying six key CSFs: economic viability, the underlying process, IT security, roles and responsibilities, employee skills, engagement, and alignment and complexity of affected applications. In Part B, eight semi-structured expert inter-views revealed 25 operational risk scenarios, leading to the creation of a risk catalog as the basis for conducting Risk and Control Self-Assessments (RCSAs).
Based on the empirical research results, a holistic risk management approach was developed by examining the impact of risk scenarios on the six CSFs. The findings demonstrate how risk management elements—identification, measurement, and control—interact within the RPA lifecycle. A four-phase model illustrates these insights, providing a practical framework for managing operational risks in RPA implementations. Furthermore, an interactive measurement approach, based on the six CSFs, was established to assess, prioritize, and monitor RPA use cases. This comprehensive approach addresses the core research question of how to effectively identify, assess, and manage operational risks in RPA implementation within ECB-supervised banks in Germany
New generation modified azole antifungals against multidrug-resistant Candida auris
Get PDFThe rise of antifungal resistance and limited treatment options highlight the urgent need for new drug classes. Candida auris is a serious global health threat with few effective therapies. In this study, novel azole-based compounds were developed by modifying the azole core with cyclic heteroaliphatic linkers connecting aromatic and heteroaromatic rings. Several compounds showed potent activity against C. auris, including azole-resistant strains, with MICs ranging from 0.016 to 4 µg/mL. The compounds also demonstrated strong activity against C. albicans, Nakaseomyces glabratus, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis, with MICs mostly below 1 µg/mL. Compounds 7, 18, and 21 were more potent than fluconazole. Compound 7 inhibited CYP51, eradicated C. auris biofilms, and showed better intracellular accumulation than fluconazole. In vivo studies in Galleria mellonella and Drosophila melanogaster confirmed efficacy at 5 mg/kg and no toxicity up to 50 mg/kg, supporting further development of this scaffold against multidrug-resistant C. auris infections
Building design and community [Workshop]
No full textJoin us for our workshop 'Buildings, Design and Community'' which will give VOICE to anyone interested in improving urban, unloved and underused buildings, exploring how they can move from, 'hostile to hospitable’.
At the workshop we will identify highlights of our local built environment, examine opportunities, discuss the ongoing and imminent alterations in North Finchley, as well as creatively imagine spaces for improvement. The work on display will present ideas around the potential sustainable, future use and habitation of buildings in Finchley, focusing on Adaptive Reuse as a means for social change.
The outcomes will link to an exhibition of architectural design work, on show at out Hendon campus, that will be open to the public till June 17th. Facilitated by students and tutors from MA Interiors (Architecture and Design) at Middlesex University, the workshop is open to everyone and all ages
Critical insights on fungal contamination in schools: a comprehensive review of assessment methods
Get PDFThis review addresses the increasing problem of fungal contamination in schools, which has a profound impact on indoor air quality and student health. Fungal contamination creates health problems such as respiratory problems, allergies, which can be particularly harmful in schools (e.g., Aspergillus fumigatus and Fusarium sp. are especially important as they are a well-known indoor allergens and can induce serious respiratory diseases). The aim of this study is to determine the effect of geographic location as well as season of filamentous fungi in school context. Through a comprehensive screening of 6,659 articles, 47 studies were selected for data extraction, detailing sampling techniques, analysis methods, climatic conditions, and relevant fungal species. The study highlights the importance of regularly measuring IAQ and utilizing both active and passive sampling methodologies in addition to molecular genetic analysis to complement identification and improve comparability across studies. A targeted monitoring is also proposed for species such as Aspergillus fumigatus (Aspergillus section Fumigati), Fusarium sp., and Mucorales order, which are therapeutically relevant, as well as Stachybotrys atra and Aspergillus section Flavi, in terms of their toxicological potential. Additionally, the article discusses the importance of consistent data formatting for effective meta-analysis and the need for further research to inform regulatory frameworks protecting student health. Recommendations for minimizing fungal threats include evaluating building structure, ventilation, cleaning practices, and gathering information from parents about school activities. Overall, the study underscores the global health risks posed by fungi in schools and calls for extensive investigations combining various sampling and analytical techniques. Additionally, the article discusses the importance of consistent data formatting for effective meta-analysis and the need for further research to inform regulatory frameworks protecting student health. Recommendations for minimizing fungal threats include evaluating building structure, ventilation, cleaning practices, and gathering information from parents about school activities. Overall, the study underscores the global health risks posed by fungi in schools and calls for extensive investigations combining various sampling and analytical techniques
Validity and reliability of flywheel resistance technology as an assessment method and its association with sports performance and asymmetry: a systematic review
No full textFlywheel technology is commonly used in training but remains underutilized for monitoring and testing. Flywheel devices can provide valuable data from mechanical outputs during both concentric and eccentric movements. This systematic review assesses its validity and reliability for evaluating sports performance and limb asymmetry. Searches were conducted in PubMed, SPORT-Discus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science following PRISMA DTA guidelines, focusing on keywords related to flywheel testing. Results show that flywheel testing is reliable (ICC=0.66-0.99, r=0.69-0.97, α=0.85-0.98) and valid for the athletic population when subjects undergo two familiarization sessions. The test can be conducted using rotary encoders, force plates, linear encoders, or inertial measurement units. Participants may perform 1-2 pre-repetitions followed by 5-10 recording repetitions with 1-4 sets and 2-3 minutes of rest between sets. Moment of inertia can be customized based on the athlete's experience and the type of flywheel device used. Key metrics for assessment encompass speed, force, and power, with peak power being the most commonly employed parameter. Few samples of evidence showed that increased asymmetry in concentric power may negatively affect change of direction performance, emphasizing the need for more high-quality studies. In conclusion, flywheel technology offers valuable insights across various movements, providing strength and power assessment while potentially improving athletic performance and injury prevention. Continued research is vital to explore its effectiveness in diverse athletic contexts