bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Policy Interventions to Address Digital Inequalities in Latin America in the Face of the Pandemic
Authors: Califano Bernadette , Becerra Martín
Published: March 2024

The aim of this chapter is to analyse policy interventions to address digital inequalities in five different Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Mexico) during the first months after the outbreak of COVID-19 reached the region (March–June 2020). The study draws on an analysis of the set of regulations and specific policy-making actions introduced in the field of digital connectivity in the countries under review, as well as official documents prepared by the public and private sectors, and statistics on ICT access and usage in the region.

The main argument put forward is that Latin American governments responded quickly to the spike in demand for connectivity posed by the context of the pandemic, partly because they had learned from what had happened in other latitudes, and partly because of the legacy of public policies resulting from previous experiences in the sector. However, the digital divides that persisted from previous structural inequalities lessened the impact of the actions implemented during the pandemic emergence. Likewise, these actions revealed that inequalities tend to increase, as a digitally underserved segment of the population becomes deprived of access to education, health information, entertainment, and work-from-home services in their various forms in this context.
Connecting Scotland: Delivering Digital Inclusion at Scale
Authors: Brown Rory , Slater Aaron , Warner-Mackintosh Irene
Published: March 2024

This chapter presents Connecting Scotland as a case study, highlighting the correlation between current research into digital inequality to identify those most in need of support, and the practical application of work to address this at scale through third sector organisations working directly with those at greatest risk of digital exclusion. The chapter also considers the vital role of the ‘trusted intermediary’ acting as digital champion for device recipients, and, using the data gathered via sessions with hundreds of frontline staff, explore immediate challenges and opportunities for engagement. It will also reflect on the application of research in the creation of training and resources to support the programme. Finally, the chapter will reflect on some of the many lessons learned, and consider implications for both policy-makers and fieldworkers seeking to address digital inequality at scale. All three authors were involved extensively in the development and delivery of this work.
Digital Inclusion Through Distribution of iPads During the Covid19 Pandemic? A Participatory Action Research in a German Secondary School
Authors: Bozdağ Çiğdem
Published: March 2024

The research on digital inequalities today not only focuses on inequalities related to access, but also on digital skills and outcomes of digital media use (van Deursen AJ, Helsper EJ, The third-level digital divide: Who benefits most from being online? In: Communication and information technologies annual, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, 2015; Ragnedda M, The third digital divide: A Weberian approach to digital inequalities. Routledge, 2016). However, the access inequalities are still an issue that needs to be scrutinized even in the context of the developed countries especially in relation to quality and quantity of technology access and maintenance issues (Gonzales A, Inf Commun Soc 19:234–248, 2016; van Deursen AJ, Van Dijk JA, New Media & Society 21:354–375, 2019). Focusing on the case of the distribution of iPads for all students in primary and secondary schools in the state of Bremen during the Covid19 pandemic, this chapter discusses if and how hardware distribution projects can be successful for mitigating the digital inequalities among the young people. The presented analysis is based on a participatory action research project that was conducted in a secondary school that is based in a socioeconomically disadvantaged and culturally diverse school in Bremen. The empirical data that will be discussed here consists of participatory observations from January 2020 to April 2021 and three rounds of focus groups with the students. The chapter discusses how the iPad project was perceived by the students before and after the distribution of the iPads and how they were used for distance education during school closures. The chapter will argue that the project was successful for mitigating the immediate effects of school closures by helping the students to interact more with their teachers and structure their days better by following the school’s online classes. However, the students also raised serious concerns about the maintenance of the devices as well as the risks of surveillance by the teachers and the school administration.
UAE Parents’ Awareness of the Importance of Programming to Primary Students, and Their Perspectives Towards It: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Elsawah Wafaa
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Highlight programming's importance and explore parental views on its inclusion in UAE primary schools.

Methodology: Employing a quantitative approach, the study surveyed 499 UAE parents with primary school children. Their perspectives on programming and their children's attitudes towards it were gauged.

Findings: UAE's primary school programming education needs reform, necessitating enhanced parental and student awareness.

Implications: Educational policymakers should prioritize programming as a core subject, backed by this study. It adds to the literature on programming's value, highlighting parental awareness's impact on student attitudes.

Originality/Value: This research contributes practical and academic insights, guiding potential expansion. Educational leaders, especially in primary schools, can use these findings to improve programming education.
Developing a Draft Curriculum Framework for Learners with Severe and Multiple Disabilities in UAE Schools Through Analysis of Relevant Literature
Authors: Obeid Anwar Sami
Published: March 2024

This study is one of the first to investigate Learner with Severe and Multiple Disabilities curriculum frameworks in UAE schools. It will improve inclusive education in formal settings, prepare stakeholders in the region to work with students with disabilities in schools, and accept the UNESCO vision to perform more research in this sector. It aims to develop a draft of the curriculum framework for Learners with Severe and Multiple Disabilities in schools in the UAE.

To achieve the objectives of the study, the systamtic literature review method was used for data collection. Interestingly, the findings of the study revealed that designing a curriculum framework for Learners with Severe and Multiple Disabilities requires taking into consideration several aspects such as the curriculum itself, whether it is a general or functional curriculum. Other aspects include special teaching techniques, cooperation between stakeholders and the team, curriculum accessibility, efficiency of the assessment process, and the incorporation of technology.
The Emerging Nature of ICT Policies in Education: A Comparative Analysis of School ICT Policies
Authors: Halabi Lydia , Hill Christopher
Published: March 2024

Purpose- The role of ICT in education is not new but the manner in which technology in education is perceived, valued and implemented is in constant flux.

Methodology- This paper uses a comparative approach to examine ICT school policies, pre and post pandemic, to explore key issues of focus and relevance.

Findings- As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, technology became ubiquitous in education and it is now imperative that we consider the extent to which it is appropriate for use, sustainable and supported. ICT has the potential to transform the learning environment but it must be understood, implemented and managed responsibly.

Implications- The paper looks at the role of leadership and key stakeholder engagement in this process, from a teacher and student perspective.

Originality/value- Drawing on a detailed literature review and in-depth document policy analysis, this paper considers the framework for implementation and identifies key components required for the design and development of a relevant ICT school policy.
Facade Retrofits: Sustainable Living Architectural Facades. The Case Study of “Baynunah Hilton Tower” in Abu Dhabi
Authors: Eid Bana , Mounajjed Nadia
Published: March 2024

Over the last few years, the concept of a more sustainable/eco-responsive skin featured as alternative envelopes for buildings (sometimes termed “Living Architecture”), designed to achieve low energy consumption, cost efficiency, and user comfort. Until today, architects in the UAE tend to design projects with double skin façades more than providing living architecture façade to achieve energy efficiency and sustainability in an extremely hot climate. Since the 1990s buildings in Gulf cities were dressed in cladding, which ignores the importance of building orientation, passive design ideas, and implementation.

Purpose – This paper examines the concept of living architecture in the context of the UAE and proposes a framework to retrofit existing unsustainable designs with more eco-responsive ones.

Methodology – Energy analysis will be applied to the façade of Baynunah Hilton Tower in Abu Dhabi before and after providing a living architectural façade technique in order to test the energy efficiency of the facade between the two scenarios. The analysis will be applied using FormIt software.

Findings – The new proposed façade design “Light-weight Aluminium with Arabesque pattern” have affected positively the energy performance of the building. The energy consumption has been reduced by almost 38% after applying the retrofitting design to the façade.

Implications – Façade retrofit is important as it helps in providing sustainable design solutions for the building’s facade that plays an important role in achieving energy efficiency and saving the environment.

Originality/value – All the scenarios and simulations were done by the authors using FormIt software.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Sustainability: The Case of UAE Smart Cities
Authors: Khansaheb Khulood Shebib Hussain Abdulrahman
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this research was to study the case of the UAE smart cities with specific focus on how artificial intelligence (AI) was used in enhancing the achievement of sustainability in the UAE. The research narrowed down to investigate sustainability from the lens of the socio-economic sustainable development goals of the UAE as per the UN sustainable goals objectives 2015.

The research adopted a quantitative methodological framework to rigorously examine the subject matter above. A survey was developed and distributed to 300 practitioners in AI, smart cities, and sustainable development programs across the UAE (mainly, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah). The research noted that environmental factors of AI application in UAE smart cities such as infrastructure readiness, stakeholder readiness and regulatory environment, strongly impacted the smart cities development in the UAE which in turn led to the attainment of socio-economic sustainable development goals. Implicatively, the research suggests the need for the development of a strategic roadmap for the adoption, usage, and implementation of AI in UAE smart cities to facilitate socio-economic sustainability through achievement of socio-economic sustainable development goals. The research novelty lies in bridging the paucity in literature regarding the use of AI in smart cities and its role in promoting sustainability; by establishing the connection between AI, smart cities and socio-economic sustainable development goals.
Artificial Intelligence for Sustainability Development in Healthcare
Authors: Sajwani Rehab Anwar
Published: March 2024

Purpose - Digital technology is frequently employed in the healthcare sector to innovate and add value. This study examines AI-based technology implementation in the healthcare industry. The purpose of the study is to provide a review of publications on artificial intelligence (AI) and how it has enabled the healthcare sector to progress toward sustainable development goals (SDG).

Methodology - The method is based on a systematic mapping review of 40 papers. It also contained relevant publications to this paper’s research questions for comparison.

Findings - The paper emphasizes the significance of AI implementation in healthcare and further facilities’ implementation of SDG and health-related SDG and its evolving contribution to humanity for affordable global healthcare.

Implications/limitation - The scope of this paper is limited to the time during submission of this paper and keywords specified in this paper’s research question.

Originality/value - The paper will expand knowledge of AI to achieve sustainable development goals and health-related SDGs and further highlight research gaps to be addressed for healthcare improvement.
The Future of the Internet of Vehicles (IoV)
Authors: AlGhanem Hani , Abdallah Sherief
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the Internet of Things (IoT) and its application in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV). IoV combines AI and IoT for real-time monitoring and operation of vehicles. We discuss how the integration of AI and IoT enhances vehicle functionalities through the deployment of sensors, infrared gadgets, cameras, and heat detectors, facilitating advancements in autonomous vehicles. We explore the evolutionary trajectory of the IoV concept and its diverse applications, provide a structured progression of ideas, and shed light on the challenges and potential solutions for IoT. The final section projects the future landscape of IoV implementation, demonstrating how it can revolutionize business operations and management.so this paper aims to bridge current knowledge gaps, stimulate further research, and spark innovative applications of IoV.
The Impact of Organisational Structure on Project Performance in the Energy Sector
Authors: Basioni Ahmed , Khan Muhammed Waris
Published: March 2024

Purpose – The objective is to explore the impact of organisational structure on project performance and current research topics regarding organisational structure theories, types, and aspects in terms of challenges, culture, communication, organisational dynamics, and drivers.

Methodology – The adopted methodology employs two integrated approaches. First, use a systematic mapping approach to explore the existing research studies on organisational structure’s impact. Second, correlate the research studies to existing case studies in the energy sector, record findings, and propose recommendations on the way forward.

Findings – The study results concluded that most oil producers are a mix of functional and matrix organisations with diversified thoughts on centralizing project management teams.

Implications/limitations – It is essential to conduct follow-up research validating the potential for using the findings of this study to establish frameworks for the organisational transformation approach in meeting cultural variance and market conditions.

Originality/value – The proposed case studies and relevant theories present the most effective organisational structure model to improve project-based operations performance, thus enabling oil and gas organisations to manage their business mandates effectively.
A Qualitative Study of the Impact of Currency on Socio-cultural Identity
Authors: Al Johani Ateeq
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the relationship between currency and the socio-cultural identity of a people. The research sought to investigate the phenomenon by examining how a particular community considers currency as an important tenet of their identity.

The methodology of the research was qualitative in nature considering its ethnographic premise – culture. To this extent, the research developed an interview schedule and used this to collect data from targeted participants on their perceptions regarding the impact of currency on their culture.

The findings of the research were that currency is directly related to culture and strongly impacts the cultural identity of a people. The respondents to the interview agreed that the currency they use is a depiction of their culture and strength and they shared a lot of confidence on the currency as a cultural facet.

The implications of the research including fostering the deeper understanding of the role of money in the socio-cultural setting as a multiplier of cultural identity and enthusiasm apart from the common attributes of money.

The current study is original in nature in the sense that, while there are numerous researches already conducted about money and the society, the impact of the same in the socio-cultural domain remains unstudied. This qualitative research will highlight the gap and seek to cover it in a step to open up a new dimension of study of the subject of money and society.
The Validity of Executed Terms of Settlement in Arbitration, Mediation, Conciliation and in Some Selected Rules of Court
Authors: Rabiu Abdul-Nafiu Mustapha
Published: March 2024

This piece attempt to discuss the term of settlement in arbitration, mediation, and conciliation; and to determine the validity of the terms of settlement in face the court or tribunal in relation to some of the major mediation and arbitration laws and rules. Inquiry revealed that the validity of terms of settlement rests on the Arbitral Tribunal in arbitration, and in mediation, its validity lies on when the Parties signs or where Mediator signs. Under Conciliation, the terms of settlement if agreed and signed by the parties, and endorsed by a Conciliator becomes valid and can be considered as Arbitral Award to be enforced by Courts. Discovery indicates that the Courts are always willing to enforce a term of settlement that stem from ADR Options in the form of Consent Judgement. The position of the parties, Rules of Court, and Arbitral Tribunal on the validity of executed terms of settlement under ADR will be highlighted.
Analysis of Savings and Investments in First Ten Years of Employment in Dubai
Authors: Dhoundiyal Meenakshi , Pareek Nishtha
Published: March 2024

It is crucial in the modern world to not only start thinking about savings and investing but also to act on it. For long term financial stability and growth, one needs to start saving and then carefully investing the savings in different investment avenues. Savings and investments are used interchangeably. But the fact is that both have different meanings with one common motive of safeguarding the future in terms of finance. This paper attempts to study the savings and investments outlined in the first ten years of employment in Dubai. Dubai has all possible investment avenues available, just like any other economy may have. The primary data were collected from 118 respondents, with 65 men and 53 women. It is found that most of the employees are aware of the savings and investments. Males are more aware and hence making more savings and investments as compared to females. It is also found that the majority of the employees save 10–20% of their earnings monthly. The purpose of saving is future security followed by safety and tax savings. Further research found a significant relationship between investment awareness and Gender and the relationship between educational qualification and selection of the investment avenues.

Purpose: This study focuses on the savings and investment opportunities for the employees; further it will explore various factors that motivate employees to save and invest and factors that affect the investment behaviors of the employees.

Methodology: Primary and secondary data sources were used for data collection. Primary data was collected from the targeted population who are in the first ten years of their employment in the UAE by using Google Forms. A probability sampling method was selected for this study. The research instrument was administered to 120 respondents out of which 118 were returned. 2 respondents could not return the form and hence the final sample size was 118, with 65 men and 53 women participating in the survey.

Findings: A significant relationship between gender and investment awareness. Men are relatively more aware of the investment and savings avenues as compared to the women. Women are more driven to invest in gold as compared to their male counterparts. There is a positive relationship between level of education and awareness regarding saving and investment.

Recommendations: Creating monthly and yearly budget is crucial for the financially safe future. Investments in liquid funds to have more flexibility can be considered in this age group. Consulting a financial advisor to make wise investment choices is recommended. Further research can be conducted on the gender-wise investment choices, investment choices at different age level from the early years of earning till retirement.
Theoretical Framework for Effective Communication Processes for the Agile Project Management Approach in the UAE Utility Sector
Authors: Afifi Mutasim , al Marri Khalid
Published: March 2024

The goal of this study is to find out how well the communication processes in the UAE Utility Industry work with the Agile Project Management Approach. For this reason, the present study will incorporate a quantitative research methodology that will allow the researcher to verify secondary data on the agile project management strategy. The utility sector in the UAE will be surveyed, as will its management, to gather primary data. Agile project management has suitably made it possible to obtain an appropriate balance between stability and dynamism while providing an opportunity for quick and smart strategy, structure, and process. Due to potentially strong investment from the private sector and collaboration with global investor engagement, the utility sector is considered to be one of the strongest and most lucrative businesses that offers a wide range of services.

Research into the many facets of communication has the potential to improve utility sector efficiency and the effectiveness of related undertakings, contributing to structuration theory.

Team members should have a voice in the agile project management process, maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders, and discuss problems in a timely manner to increase tolerance and acceptance.
The Relationship Between the Frequency and the Range of Morphemes Used in Students’ Essays and Essay Scores in an American School in Dubai
Authors: Abukhalaf Siham , Abu-Ayyash Emad
Published: March 2024

Purpose - The purpose of this research paper was to determine whether there is a relationship between the frequency and the range of morphemes used in students’ essays and their actual essay scores.

Methodology - To address the research questions, the mixed methods design was conducted to view the findings from different angles.

Findings - The results suggest that there is a strong relationship between the range of morphemes used in students’ essays and essay scores.

Implications - These findings can have meaningful implications for English teachers and linguists in the UAE, specifically, about the significance of considering the morphology used in students’ essays.

Originality - This paper adds to the growing body of literature by adding information on the frequency and the range of morphemes used in students’ writing and essay scores in the UAE’s education sector. This may contribute to more significant information within the field of linguistics.
Probing transverse momentum dependent structures with azimuthal dependence of energy correlators
Authors: Kang Zhong-Bo , Lee Kyle , Shao Ding Yu , Zhao Fanyi
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We study the azimuthal angle dependence of the energy-energy correlators $$\langle \mathcal{E}\left({\widehat{n}}_{1}\right)\mathcal{E}\left({\widehat{n}}_{2}\right)\rangle $$ in the back-to-back region for e+e− annihilation and deep inelastic scattering (DIS) processes with general polarization of the proton beam. We demonstrate that the polarization information of the beam and the underlying partons from the hard scattering is propagated into the azimuthal angle dependence of the energy-energy correlators. In the process, we define the Collins-type EEC jet functions and introduce a new EEC observable using the lab-frame angles in the DIS process. Furthermore, we extend our formalism to explore the two-point energy correlation between hadrons with different quantum numbers $${\mathbb{S}}_{i}$$ in the back-to-back limit $$\langle {\mathcal{E}}_{{\mathbb{S}}_{1}}\left({\widehat{n}}_{1}\right){\mathcal{E}}_{{\mathbb{S}}_{2}}\left({\widehat{n}}_{2}\right)\rangle $$. We find that in the Operator Product Expansion (OPE) region the nonperturbative information is entirely encapsulated by a single number. Using our formalism, we present several phenomenological studies that showcase how energy correlators can be used to probe transverse momentum dependent structures.
Aberrant activated Notch1 promotes prostate enlargement driven by androgen signaling via disrupting mitochondrial function in mouse
Authors: Kang Jin-Wen , He Jia-Peng , Liu Ying-Nan , Zhang Yu , Song Shan-Shan , Xu Qi-Xin , Wei Shu-Wen , Lu Lei , Meng Xiang-Qi , Xu Lin , Guo Bin , Su Ren-Wei
Published: March 2024

The prostate is a vital accessory gonad in the mammalian male reproductive system. With the ever-increasing proportion of the population over 60 years of age worldwide, the incidence of prostate diseases, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa), is on the rise and is gradually becoming a significant medical problem globally. The notch signaling pathway is essential in regulating prostate early development. However, the potential regulatory mechanism of Notch signaling in prostatic enlargement and hyperplasia remains unclear. In this study, we proved that overactivation of Notch1 signaling in mouse prostatic epithelial cells (OEx) led to prostatic enlargement via enhancing proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis of prostatic epithelial cells. Further study showed that N1ICD/RBPJ directly up-regulated the androgen receptor (AR) and enhanced prostatic sensitivity to androgens. Hyper-proliferation was not found in orchidectomized OEx mice without androgen supply but was observed after Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) supplementation. Our data showed that the number of mitochondrion in prostatic epithelial cells of OEx mice was increased, but the mitochondrial function was impaired, and the essential activity of the mitochondrial respiratory electron transport chain was significantly weakened. Disordered mitochondrial number and metabolic function further resulted in excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Importantly, anti-oxidant N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) therapy could alleviate prostatic hyperplasia caused by the over-activation of Notch1 signaling. Furthermore, we observed the incremental Notch signaling activity in progenitor-like club cells in the scRNA-seq data set of human BPH patients. Moreover, the increased number of TROP2+ progenitors and Club cells was also confirmed in our OEx mice. In conclusion, our study revealed that over-activated Notch1 signaling induces prostatic enlargement by increasing androgen receptor sensitivity, disrupting cellular mitochondrial metabolism, increasing ROS, and a higher number of progenitor cells, all of which can be effectively rescued by NAC treatment.
Using Moment Tensor Inversions for Rapid Seismic Source Detection and Characterization: Application to the North Korean Nuclear Tests
Authors: Guilhem Trilla Aurelie , Cano Yoann
Published: March 2024

The rapid detection and source characterization of any type of seismic events including earthquakes and nuclear explosions is one of the missions of many seismological laboratories. Most often, the techniques used are based on phase picking and amplitude measurements for detecting and locating events, and for estimating magnitudes. From these parameters, especially for anthropogenic sources, event screening is then done empirically, and this may lead to misinterpretations of the source nature. However, it is known that seismic waveform inversion for the determination of the moment tensor has proven to be a reliable source physics-based method for event characterization. Here, we present a technique already used for earthquake monitoring in tectonically active regions, and we test it on very shallow natural and anthropogenic events recorded in the vicinity of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). From a grid of potential locations and by scanning continuous seismic waveforms, it is possible to implement a rapid detector of seismic events providing the full information of the sources (origin time, location, magnitude, mechanism, and source decomposition). We show its overall performances on all past DPRK nuclear tests and regional earthquakes. From such an approach fast complete event screening is achieved. Source uncertainties can also be estimated. This stand-alone detector and identifier of seismic events may help monitoring seismological agencies to provide a rapid and complete alert for any events within a region of interest before more in-depth discrimination analysis can be run.
Definitions of hospital-acquired pneumonia in trauma research: a systematic review
Authors: Kobes Tim , Smeeing Diederik P. J. , Hietbrink Falco , Benders Kim E. M. , Houwert R. Marijn , van Baal Mark P. C. M.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

What are reported definitions of HAP in trauma patient research?

Methods

A systematic review was performed using the PubMed/MEDLINE database. We included all English, Dutch, and German original research papers in adult trauma patients reporting diagnostic criteria for hospital-acquired pneumonia diagnosis. The risk of bias was assessed using the MINORS criteria.

Results

Forty-six out of 5749 non-duplicate studies were included. Forty-seven unique criteria were reported and divided into five categories: clinical, laboratory, microbiological, radiologic, and miscellaneous. Eighteen studies used 33 unique guideline criteria; 28 studies used 36 unique non-guideline criteria.

Conclusion

Clinical criteria for diagnosing HAP—both guideline and non-guideline—are widespread with no clear consensus, leading to restrictions in adequately comparing the available literature on HAP in trauma patients. Studies should at least report how a diagnosis was made, but preferably, they would use pre-defined guideline criteria for pneumonia diagnosis in a research setting. Ideally, one internationally accepted set of criteria is used to diagnose hospital-acquired pneumonia.

Level of evidence

Level III.
Vascular mimicry in zebrafish fin regeneration: how macrophages build new blood vessels
Authors: Senk Anita , Fazzari Jennifer , Djonov Valentin
Published: March 2024

Vascular mimicry has been thoroughly investigated in tumor angiogenesis. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that a process closely resembling tumor vascular mimicry is present during physiological blood vessel formation in tissue regeneration using the zebrafish fin regeneration assay. At the fin-regenerating front, vasculature is formed by mosaic blood vessels with endothelial-like cells possessing the morphological phenotype of a macrophage and co-expressing both endothelial and macrophage markers within single cells. Our data demonstrate that the vascular segments of the regenerating tissue expand, in part, through the transformation of adjacent macrophages into endothelial-like cells, forming functional, perfused channels and contributing to the de novo formation of microvasculature. Inhibiting the formation of tubular vascular-like structures by CVM-1118 prevents vascular mimicry and network formation resulting in a 70% shorter regeneration area with 60% reduced vessel growth and a complete absence of any signs of regeneration in half of the fin area. Additionally, this is associated with a significant reduction in macrophages. Furthermore, depleting macrophages using macrophage inhibitor PLX-3397, results in impaired tissue regeneration and blood vessel formation, namely a reduction in the regeneration area and vessel network by 75% in comparison to controls.
SelfPAB: large-scale pre-training on accelerometer data for human activity recognition
Authors: Logacjov Aleksej , Herland Sverre , Ustad Astrid , Bach Kerstin
Published: March 2024

Annotating accelerometer-based physical activity data remains a challenging task, limiting the creation of robust supervised machine learning models due to the scarcity of large, labeled, free-living human activity recognition (HAR) datasets. Researchers are exploring self-supervised learning (SSL) as an alternative to relying solely on labeled data approaches. However, there has been limited exploration of the impact of large-scale, unlabeled datasets for SSL pre-training on downstream HAR performance, particularly utilizing more than one accelerometer. To address this gap, a transformer encoder network is pre-trained on various amounts of unlabeled, dual-accelerometer data from the HUNT4 dataset: 10, 100, 1k, 10k, and 100k hours. The objective is to reconstruct masked segments of signal spectrograms. This pre-trained model, termed SelfPAB, serves as a feature extractor for downstream supervised HAR training across five datasets (HARTH, HAR70+, PAMAP2, Opportunity, and RealWorld). SelfPAB outperforms purely supervised baselines and other SSL methods, demonstrating notable enhancements, especially for activities with limited training data. Results show that more pre-training data improves downstream HAR performance, with the 100k-hour model exhibiting the highest performance. It surpasses purely supervised baselines by absolute F1-score improvements of 7.1% (HARTH), 14% (HAR70+), and an average of 11.26% across the PAMAP2, Opportunity, and RealWorld datasets. Compared to related SSL methods, SelfPAB displays absolute F1-score enhancements of 10.4% (HARTH), 18.8% (HAR70+), and 16% (average across PAMAP2, Opportunity, RealWorld).
DC-driven subatmospheric glow discharges in the infrared-stimulated
Authors: ONGUN Erhan , YÜCEL Hatice Hilal , UTAŞ Selçuk
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a conceptual framework for experimental research combined with numerical analysis on direct current (DC) glow discharges in microscale planar gas discharge-semiconductor systems (GDSS). In the experimental section, several structural and elemental analyses, including SEM, EDAX, AFM, and near-infrared absorption spectra measurements were carried out for compound semiconductor zinc selenide (ZnSe) cathode sample. Argon (Ar) was charged into the plasma reactor cell of GDSS at pressures of 100 Torr subatmospheric and 760 Torr atmospheric, respectively, by a vacuum pump- gas filling station. Glow discharge light emissions from plasma, excited under three different intensity levels (dark, weak, strong) of infrared beam illumination on ZnSe cathode electrode, were measured by using a phomultiplier tube that is sensitive to UV–Visible wavelengths. In the numerical analysis section, simulation studies were carried out on the two-dimensional gas discharge-semiconductor microplasma system (GDSµPS) cell models using the finite-element method (FEM) solver COMSOL Multiphysics DC plasma program. Calculations and predictions were based on mixture-averaged diffusion drift theory and Maxwellian electron energy distribution function. GDSµPS cell was modeled in a square chamber with planar anode/cathode electrode pair coupled at a 50 μm discharge gap. Single side of ZnSe cathode was finely micro-digitated to increase the effective surface area for enhanced electron emission to the gas discharge cell. The electrical equivalent circuit (EEC) of the proposed model was driven by 1.0 kV DC voltage source. Binary Ar/H2 gas medium in a mixture of 3:2 molar ratio was introduced to the gas discharge chamber at constant 200 Torr subatmospheric pressure. Simulations were run for normal glow discharges to exhibit the electrical fast transient glow discharge behaviours from electron field emission state to self-sustained normal glow discharge state by numerically solving the electron density (ED), electron current density (ECD) and electric potential distribution (EPD) parameters.

It is figured out that binary Ar/H2 gas discharge model can undertake a major role in shaping and controlling the spatiotemporal response to transient electro-optical behavior of microplasma-based artificial electromagnetic materials configured for high-efficiency infrared-to-visible wavelength conversion applications.
Using Organoids to Tap Mammary Gland Diversity for Novel Insight
Authors: Rauner Gat
Published: March 2024

This article offers a comprehensive perspective on the transformative role of organoid technology on mammary gland biology research across a diverse array of mammalian species.

The mammary gland's unique development and regenerative capabilities render this organ an ideal model for studying developmental evolution, stem cell behavior, and regenerative processes. The discussion extends to the use of cross-species mammary organoids to address key biological inquiries in evolution, tissue regeneration, cancer research, and lactation, highlighting the limitations of traditional mouse models and the benefits of incorporating a more diverse range of animal models.

Advances in organoid biology have been critical in overcoming ethical and practical constraints of in-vivo studies, especially in human research. The generation of human and mouse mammary organoids that faithfully recapitulate in-vivo tissues marks a significant stride in this field. Parallel capabilities are now emerging for other mammals, as well.

Utilizing mammary organoids from various species has the potential to make invaluable contributions to our understanding of mammary gland biology, with implications for regenerative medicine, cancer research, and lactation studies, thereby contributing to advancements in human health, agriculture, and nutrition science.
Exploring the relationship between the learning environment and bullying: PLS-SEM evidence from Norwegian higher education
Authors: Tay Emmanuel Mensah Kormla , Zamore Stephen
Published: March 2024

Increasing awareness of the consequences of bullying leads to efforts to address deficiencies in the learning environments in which bullying occurs. This study explored factors that determine the learning environment and their influence on bullying experiences at two universities in Norway. The study employed a cross-sectional design involving 438 students. Students’ perceptions of various learning environment variables were correlated with their experiences of various negative behaviours and victimisation using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The results show that students’ perceptions of the universities’ general learning environments are inversely associated with various negative behaviour constructs and victimisation, and the results are notable among bachelor students and married and cohabiting people. The study shows that an improvement, mainly in the universities’ general learning environment, relative to the validated variables, would reduce the occurrence and experience of bullying.
Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes’ determinants: an Italian retrospective cohort study based on Lombardia CARe
Authors: Sgueglia Alice Clara , Gentile Leandro , Bertuccio Paola , Gaeta Maddalena , Zeduri Margherita , Girardi Daniela , Primi Roberto , Currao Alessia , Bendotti Sara , Marconi Gianluca , Sechi Giuseppe Maria , Savastano Simone , Odone Anna
Published: March 2024

This study on the Lombardia Cardiac Arrest Registry (Lombardia CARe,) the most complete nationwide out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) registry in Italy, aims at evaluating post-OHCA intra-hospital mortality risk according to patient’s characteristics and emergency health service management (EMS), including level of care of first-admission hospital. Out of 12,581 patients included from 2015 to 2022, we considered 1382 OHCA patients admitted alive to hospital and survived more than 24 h. We estimated risk ratios (RRs) of intra-hospital mortality through log-binomial regression models adjusted by patients’ and EMS characteristics. The study population consisted mainly of males (66.6%) most aged 60–69 years (24.7%) and 70–79 years (23.7%). Presenting rhythm was non-shockable in 49.9% of patients, EMS intervention time was less than 10 min for 30.3% of patients, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was performed for less than 15 min in 29.9%. Moreover, 61.6% of subjects (n = 852) died during hospital admission. Intra-hospital mortality is associated with non-shockable presenting rhythm (RR 1.27, 95% CI 1.19–1.35) and longer CPR time (RR 1.39, 95% CI 1.28–1.52 for 45 min or more). Patients who accessed to a secondary vs tertiary care hospital were more frequently older, with a non-shockable presenting rhythm and longer EMS intervention time. Non-shockable presenting rhythm accounts for 27% increased risk of intra-hospital death in OHCA patients, independently of first-access hospital level, thus demonstrating that patients’ outcomes depend only by intrinsic OHCA characteristics and Health System’s resources are utilised as efficiently as possible.
An Update on the Management of Bone Metastases
Authors: Grosinger Alexander J. , Alcorn Sara R.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Increasing life expectancy among patients with advanced cancer has placed a greater emphasis on optimizing pain control and quality of life. Concurrently, significant advancements in radiotherapy for bone metastases have permitted for dose escalation strategies such as stereotactic radiotherapy. This review aims to provide updated information on the management of bone metastases in light of these developments.

Recent Findings

We reviewed recent studies regarding the role and details of external beam radiotherapy for bone metastases, with emphasis on differences by treatment site as well as intention (palliative versus ablative for oligometastases). Conventional palliative radiotherapy remains a mainstay of management. While stereotactic radiotherapy may augment durability of pain relief and even survival time, there are significant questions remaining regarding optimal dosing and patient selection.

Radiotherapy for bone metastases continues to evolve, particularly with increasing use of stereotactic radiotherapy. Future studies are needed to clarify optimal dose, fractionation, modality, and patient selection criteria among different radiotherapy approaches.
Manual on the proper use of the 211At-labeled PSMA ligand ([211At]PSMA-5) for clinical trials of targeted alpha therapy (1st edition)
Authors: Watabe Tadashi , Namba Masao , Yanagida Sachiko , Nakamura Yoshihide , Yamada Takahiro , Tatsuno Saori , Ri Aritoshi , Yoshida Shuhei , Uyama Kumiko , Kinuya Seigo , Tomiyama Noriyuki , Hosono Makoto
Published: March 2024

Recently, an astatine-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) ligand ([211At]PSMA-5) has been developed for the targeted alpha therapy of patients with prostate cancer. This manual delineates its physicochemical characteristics to assist healthcare professionals in understanding the α-ray-emitting drug of [211At]PSMA-5 when administered to patients. The safety considerations regarding the handling and use of this drug in clinical trials are outlined, based on the proper usage manual of previous studies. The dose limits, as defined by the guidelines of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), are assessed for patients’ caregivers and the general public. According to the calculations provided in this manual, clinical trials involving [211At]PSMA-5 can be safely conducted for these populations even if patients are released after its administration. Moreover, this manual provides comprehensive guidance on the handling of [211At]PSMA-5 for healthcare facilities, and compiles a list of precautionary measures to be distributed among patients and their caregivers. While this manual was created by a research team supported by Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare in Japan and approved by Japanese Society of Nuclear Medicine, its applicability extends to healthcare providers in other countries. This manual aims to facilitate conducting clinical trials using [211At]PSMA-5 in patients with prostate cancer.
Unveiling urban governance diversity: Clustering cities based on mitigation actions
Authors: Mokhles Sombol , Davidson Kathryn , Acuto Michele
Published: March 2024

Embracing a “more global” urban comparison in scientific assessments of climate actions by cities is essential to drive greater and more inclusive participation in global efforts to curb climate change. This comparison needs to engage cities irrespective of their size and status: when we do so, distinctive patterns of urban climate mitigation actions across a diverse range of cities emerge. Employing K-means clustering as a pattern recognition method, this study compares cities based on selected aspects of their reported mitigation actions to the Carbon Disclosure Project. It explores whether the identified clusters facilitate the comparison of a socio-spatially diverse range of cities. The study identifies five clusters within two themes, namely the nature and finance–implementation of actions, shedding light on shared and distinct governance aspects of mitigation actions by cities. Notably, the study underscores how governance patterns transcend city size and global status. These findings offer valuable insights for broadening the comparative imagination of cities and inter-city networking opportunities.
Synthesis and Modulation of Low-Dimensional Transition Metal Chalcogenide Materials via Atomic Substitution
Authors: Wang Xuan , Chen Akang , Wu XinLei , Zhang Jiatao , Dong Jichen , Zhang Leining
Published: March 2024

In recent years, low-dimensional transition metal chalcogenide (TMC) materials have garnered growing research attention due to their superior electronic, optical, and catalytic properties compared to their bulk counterparts. The controllable synthesis and manipulation of these materials are crucial for tailoring their properties and unlocking their full potential in various applications. In this context, the atomic substitution method has emerged as a favorable approach. It involves the replacement of specific atoms within TMC structures with other elements and possesses the capability to regulate the compositions finely, crystal structures, and inherent properties of the resulting materials. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview on various strategies of atomic substitution employed in the synthesis of zero-dimensional, one-dimensional and two-dimensional TMC materials. The effects of substituting elements, substitution ratios, and substitution positions on the structures and morphologies of resulting material are discussed. The enhanced electrocatalytic performance and photovoltaic properties of the obtained materials are also provided, emphasizing the role of atomic substitution in achieving these advancements. Finally, challenges and future prospects in the field of atomic substitution for fabricating low-dimensional TMC materials are summarized.
Schwerpunkt: Zustand und Zukunft von Verfassung und Rechtsstaat
Authors: Schäfer Karsten
Published: March 2024

Verfassungen unterliegen einem steten Wandel. Dieser ist auch gewollt und erforderlich, soll eine Verfassung auf Dauer Bestand haben. Insbesondere vor dem Hintergrund der mannigfaltigen Herausforderungen, mit denen sich Verfassung und Rechtsstaat gegenwärtig konfrontiert sehen, sind Anpassungsfähigkeit und Robustheit zwingend erforderliche Attribute. Der vorliegende ZPol-Focus geht der Frage nach, wie es um den aktuellen Zustand, aber auch um die Zukunft von Verfassung und Rechtsstaat in Deutschland sowie international bestellt ist.