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The fourth industrial revolution tempts manufacturing companies to transform into smart factories, which in turn affects the human work. We examine this complexity from the perspective of human factors and ergonomics (HF/E) by analysing the organisational capabilities needed when seeking and selecting new technology solutions, and designing and implementing them into local application. This qualitative study focuses on manufacturing companies that have pioneered adopting high technologies in their processes. Empirical material was collected from 15 Finnish manufacturing companies of different sizes. Particular attention is paid to how HF/E are present when companies (1) sense new opportunities for technological development of their production, (2) seise these opportunities through design actions, and (3) shift the solutions into use. Analyses revealed that companies, regardless of their size and the technology being implemented, do not fully understand the fundamentals and value of HF/E, resulting in technology and production-oriented solutions in which human skills and capabilities are often neglected. A novel road map is proposed for integrating HF/E expertise and knowledge when seeking, selecting, and utilising new production technologies. This study increases understanding of the role of HF/E when adopting new technologies in manufacturing. The road map improves possibilities for fact-based decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological niche models are often used to predict the distribution of invasive species before or after they have been detected in new regions. Such models should also be used to guide surveys to promote the early detection and eradication of invasive species. Here we propose a practical framework that seamlessly uses ecological niche models to develop sampling routes that promote detection of invasive species. Our framework uses habitat suitability predictions and occurrence data on incursion populations to generate potential survey sites, which are then prioritized for sampling based on their size and suitability. The generated survey route is then displayed on an open street map platform. Our framework was developed into the ‘enmRoute' R package and a user‐friendly website to facilitate its application, and we validated our framework with a case study. We show that integrating ecological niche models with human transport routes promotes identification of survey sites that are predicted to collect more individuals and have a greater potential for species detection than traditional sampling approaches. Our framework may help industries, invasion biologists, and regulators develop economical and efficient survey programs for invasive pest monitoring that make eradication programs more attainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through the lens of Membership Categorization Analysis, this study explicates the process of discursive categorization in courtroom opening and closing statements, focusing on the use of mundane categories as well as associated activities to negotiate the legal facticity of a criminal offense. Based on the official transcripts of a high-profile Anglo-American trial, the study reveals that much of what constitutes the opening and closing is the dispute over the categorization of the main characters in legal narratives, which at times provides conflicting information to fact-finders. The two sides are found to deploy explicit and implicit categorizations. However, instead of using oppositional categories, the two sides commonly make use of different membership categorization devices. This alternation of devices supplants and replaces each other, so that two versions of realities are discursively constructed. Such strategic categorization enables lawyers to go beyond offering a road map of the case in the opening and emphasizing key evidence in the closing: everyday categories smuggle in moral evaluation and make an emotional appeal to the jurors, which in principle are legally prohibited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The understanding and treatment of prearthritic hip disease has evolved remarkably over the past 20 years. The principal investigator and the multicenter Academic Network of Conservational Hip Outcomes Research (ANCHOR) group have had a key role in improving the quality of care for these patients suffering from the three most common prearthritic conditions: femoroacetabular impingement, developmental dysplasia of the hip, and residual Legg‐Calve‐Perthes Disease. We aim to demonstrate that based on the six quality of care dimensions as defined by Donabedian, our 20‐year academic journey has markedly improved the quality of care for young patients with prearthritic hip disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The current study intends to synthesise the prior studies on employability skills among work-ready professionals in higher education through bibliometric and network visualisation tools. This study also identifies the gaps in the existing literature that still need to be filled and maps the course for future investigation. Design/methodology/approach: The current study examined research papers on employability skills among work-ready professionals in higher education to evaluate global patterns and the top authors, institutions, journals, and nations contributing to this field. The authors analysed eight hundred eighty-five papers from the Scopus database between 1982 and 2023 for the study. Open-source bibliometric tools like Biblioshiny were used in the study to examine the body of literature and to spot new directions for future research. Findings: The study's findings indicate that since 2008, researchers, academics, and policymakers have paid more attention to employability skills among work-ready professionals, and 2019 is the year seeing the highest no. of publications. Across the globe, 2077 authors contributed to the articles, papers, and journals published in the particular domain. Regarding location, the United Kingdom is the world's most productive nation, with 342 articles produced. Similarly, Australia, India, and Malaysia are the leading nations that have contributed to the field. Both keywords significantly contribute to scientific knowledge. Practical implications: The gaps in this study will serve as a reference point for researchers conducting future studies in this field. Additionally, the result of this analysis offers a roadmap for higher education to enhance graduate employability by embedding necessary skills into them. Originality/value: There has not been a bibliometric analysis concerning employability skills among Work-ready professionals in the existing literature; hence, this article is innovative. This study is the first attempt at integrating the concept. The study also gives an overview of potential directions for future research in this discipline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manual segmentation is an essential tool in the researcher's technical arsenal. It is a frequent practice necessary for image analysis in many protocols, especially in neuroimaging and comparative brain anatomy. In the framework of emergence of studies focusing on alternative animal models, manual segmentation procedures play a critical role. Nevertheless, this critical task is often assigned to students, a process that, unfortunately, tends to be time‐consuming and repetitive. Well‐conducted and well‐described segmentation procedures can potentially guide novice and even expert operators and enhance research works' internal and external validity, making it possible to harmonize studies and facilitate data sharing. Furthermore, recent advances in neuroimaging, such as ex vivo imaging or ultra‐high‐field MRI, enable new acquisition modalities and the identification of minute structures that are barely visible with typical approaches. In this context of increasingly detailed and multimodal brain studies, reflecting on methodology is relevant and necessary. Because it is crucial to implement good practices in manual segmentation per se but also in the description of the segmentation procedures in research papers, we propose a general roadmap for optimizing the technique, its process and the reporting of manual segmentation. For each of them, the relevant elements of the literature have been collected and cited. The article is accompanied by a checklist that the reader can use to verify that the critical steps are being followed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We present here a novel methodology to analyze data from two‐level factorial experimental designs, with or without missing runs, with just one method: partial least squares regression with one response variable (PLS1, hereinafter PLS). This property is very attractive for practitioners because, to the best of our knowledge, no other statistical tool has comparable versatility. In the case of a full and fractional factorial design, the one‐PLS component model yields the same analytical solution as multiple linear regression (MLR), not only in the estimation of the effects but also in their statistical significance. When having missing runs in the factorial design, PLS is of particular interest as it is a powerful tool when dealing with complex correlation structures, as opposed to MLR. Thus, we challenge the widely held view that PLS is useful only when dealing with nonexperimental design (i.e., correlated observational data). The methodology is illustrated by two illustrative examples and synthesized by an easy‐to‐follow route map useful for practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria is preventable, but the burden of disease remains high with over 249 million cases and 608,000 deaths reported in 2022. Historically, the most important protective interventions have been vector control and chemopreventive medicines with over 50 million children receiving seasonal malaria chemoprevention in the year 2023. Two vaccines are approved and starting to be deployed, bringing additional protection for children up to 36 months. However, the impact of these currently available tools is somewhat limited on various fronts. Vaccines exhibit partial efficacy, are relatively costly, and not accessible in all settings. The challenges encountered with chemoprevention are barriers to acceptability and feasibility, including frequency of dosing, and the lack of options in the first trimester of pregnancy and for women living with HIV. Also, the emergence of resistance against chemopreventive medicines is concerning. To address these limitations, a target product profile (TPP) is proposed as a road map to guide innovation and to boost the quest for novel chemopreventive alternatives. This TPP describes the ideal product attributes, while acknowledging potential trade-offs that may be needed. Critically, it considers the target populations most at risk; primarily infants, children, and pregnant women. Malaria control and elimination requires appropriate chemoprevention, not only in areas of high endemicity and transmission, but also in lower transmission areas where immunity is declining, as well as for travellers from areas where malaria has been eliminated. New medicines should show acceptable safety and tolerability, with high and long protective efficacy. Formulations and costs need to support operational adherence, access, and effectiveness. Next generation long-acting oral and injectable drugs are likely to constitute the backbone of malaria prevention. Therefore, the perspectives of front-line experts in malaria prevention, researchers, and those involved in drug development are captured in the TPP. This inclusive approach aims at concentrating efforts and aligning responses across the community to develop new and transformative medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy, resource efficiency, and globalization are recognized as pivotal factors in the pursuit of environmental sustainability. This study's novelty lies in examining the impact of resource efficiency, the influence of globalization, and the adoption of renewable energy sources on energy‐related CO2 emissions in the United States spanning the years from 1990 to 2020 is the focus of this study. Additionally, this investigation leveraged a diverse range of time‐frequency‐quantile techniques, encompassing quantile‐on‐quantile regressions, wavelet coherence, cross quantile coherence, wavelet‐based quantile correlation, and quantile regression, which is an additional novel aspect of this study. The findings of this research indicate that resource efficiency, the utilization of renewable energy sources, and the forces of globalization collectively contribute to enhancing ecological sustainability by reducing energy‐related CO2 in the United States across a range of quantiles, time periods, and temporal contexts. The study posits that these findings offer a comprehensive framework that can guide policymakers in the United States toward taking tangible measures to advance ecological sustainability while curbing energy‐related CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromoblastomycosis, an implantation mycosis, is a neglected tropical disease that causes decreased quality of life, stigma, and disability. The global burden of disease is unknown and data on disease epidemiology and outcomes are severely limited by a lack of access to needed diagnostic tools and therapeutics. The World Health Organization outlined targets for chromoblastomycosis in the Road Map for Neglected Tropical Diseases 2021–2030, but little progress has been made in initiating and implementing an effective control program globally. This lack of guiding policy and progress led to the recent formation of a Global Chromoblastomycosis Working Group which has developed a global chromoblastomycosis strategy. We describe this strategy, which outlines specific steps needed to improve technical progress, strategy and service delivery, and enablers. Clinicians, researchers, public and government officials, patients, and policy makers can align their time, expertise, and resources to improve the lives of communities affected by chromoblastomycosis through this strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strongyloidiasis is a neglected tropical disease estimated to affect more than 600 million people worldwide. Recently, the World Health Organization road map on neglected tropical diseases 2021–2030 has put the focus on strongyloidiasis, including this disease within its mass drug administration campaigns. With the use of ivermectin in extensive treatment of all populations at-risk, identifying effective therapeutic alternatives is crucial in case ivermectin resistance arises. The objective of the present study was the development of a larval migration inhibition assay to evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of commercial drugs and diamine and aminoalcohol derivatives against infective Strongyloides ratti third stage larvae. Through this technique, we successfully screened and estimated the in vitro anthelmintic efficacy of six commercial drugs, seven diamine derivatives and eight aminoalcohol derivatives. Unexpectedly, the half-maximal effective concentration of ivermectin and moxidectin (2.21 and 2.34 μM, respectively) were observed as the highest value obtained among all commercial drugs tested by this in vitro technique. Moreover, some diamine and aminoalcohol derivatives showed superior efficacy inhibiting S. ratti motility compared to ivermectin, with five compounds (AA23, AA34, AO2 AO7 and AO14b) also displaying selectivity indexes on HepG2 and Caco2 higher than 1. These findings underscore the potential of these derivatives as promising alternatives for strongyloidiasis treatment, warranting further investigation and in vivo efficacy assessment. Author summary: Strongyloidiasis, a parasitic infection affecting over 600 million people worldwide, is increasingly recognized in global health initiatives. Caused by the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis, it predominantly occurs in tropical and subtropical regions. Transmission results through contact with soil contaminated by infectious larvae, leading to a spectrum of clinical symptoms from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to potentially life-threatening complications, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. Despite its designation as a neglected tropical disease, concerns regarding the development of drug resistance highlight the need to explore alternative treatment strategies. In our study, we employed innovative methods to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of various drug candidates against Strongyloides ratti larvae, representing a crucial step in identifying novel therapies for human strongyloidiasis. Our findings revealed that some of the novel compounds tested, showed superior efficacy in inhibiting parasite motility, suggesting potential benefits for patient treatment outcomes. Our study underscores the urgent need for diversified treatment approaches in combating strongyloidiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the performance and reducing the training cost of road extraction models in the absence of samples is important for updating road maps. Despite the success of recent road extraction models on standard datasets, they often fail to perform when applied to new datasets or real-world scenarios where labeled samples are not available. In this paper, our focus diverges from the typical quest to pinpoint the optimal road extraction model or evaluate generalization prowess across models. Instead, we propose a method called Asymmetric Consistent Co-Training (ACCT) to train existing road extraction models faster and make them perform better in new scenarios lacking samples. ACCT uses two models with different structures and a supervision module to enhance accuracy through mutual learning. Labeled and unlabeled images are processed by both models to generate road maps from different perspectives. The supervision module ensures consistency between predictions by computing losses based on labeling status. ACCT iteratively adjusts parameters using unlabeled data, improving generalization. Empirical evaluations show that ACCT improves IoU by 2.79% to 10.26% using only 1/8 of the labeled data compared to fully supervised methods. It also reduces parameters by over 49% compared to state-of-the-art semi-supervised methods while maintaining similar accuracy. These results highlight the potential of leveraging large amounts of unlabeled data to enhance road extraction models as data acquisition technology advances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-conflict separated parents (HCSPs) refer to parents who are divorced or separated and are engaged in ongoing conflict. While a large percentage of married couples conclude with divorce and subsequently engage in extended conflict, there is a lack of clinical research and training for therapists aspiring to address this population. As such, this article provides an overview of HCSPs, a framework to understand risk factors associated with high-conflict families, and reviews short-term and long-term negative effects on children and families. This paper also discusses therapeutic intervention strategies known in the literature and predictors of treatment success. Individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and parenting coordination strategies are also discussed. Additionally, clinical guidelines and practical tools are shared, as a way to provide structure during what can be a fluid and complex experience. Intervention pathways are described in detail from assessment to intervention to resolution. A case example, based on clinical experience, is also used to illustrate to early-career therapists how one may navigate a case. A review of the literature highlights the need for increased research and training for therapists encountering this complicated and understudied population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid waste management is a major concern for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The rapid urban development and the accelerating population growth have made solid waste management a sincere challenge. Globally, recycling has proved to be efficient in managing solid waste. Recycling reduces the amount of waste dumped in landfills, offers a cheap source of raw materials, and aids in sustaining the environment. Household recycling is sadly not widely adopted in Saudi Arabia Eastern Province. The participation rate of the public in the Eastern Province in recycling activities is still limited. This research aims to investigate the barriers to household recycling and to provide insights into the potential causes of low local population engagement in local recycling programs. A survey was used to collect raw data. The barriers were rated, and the overall score for each barrier was assessed using the relative importance index (RII). The results show that the two most crucial household recycling barriers are the lack of official recycling programs (84.5% RII) and insufficient recycling bins (84.1% RII). An ISM model of the barriers is also developed to explore the interrelationships among barriers at a deeper level. The ISM model suggests that, in addition to the above two barriers, the lack of convenient infrastructure, inefficient curbside collection, and lack of incentives/penalties are the additional barriers driving the public away from recycling. This work should present a road map for the local authorities to initiate vital recycling initiatives capable of attracting public attention to the importance of recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complete Streets are being implemented across the US, and transportation agencies need to incorporate them into asset management systems cost-effectively maintain functionality. Although there has been a range of progress at the state level, many gaps need to be filled to include Complete Streets in asset management policies and improve practices, and there is no national guidance or comprehensive plan to achieve this. This study developed a roadmap to fill those gaps regarding infrastructure asset management. To create this roadmap, the study completed the following tasks: 1) develop and implement a survey supplement it with in-depth surveys with several agencies, 2) synthesize survey outcomes, 3) identify current statuses, challenges, and needs, and 4) develop a roadmap for Complete Streets infrastructure asset management. All 50 state transportation departments participated in the national survey. This paper synthesizes the outcomes of the surveys and literature review. The survey results showed that many agencies have some Complete Streets guidance (39/50), but only seven agencies have Complete Streets performance measures and no agency has bike/ped specific condition measures. The three primary challenges are: 1) inadequate funding related to organizational structure 2) the need for performance measures, and 3) the need for improved data accessibility, collection methods, and management techniques. The proposed Roadmap to Complete Streets Asset Management Policies includes pathways for 1) asset management performance measure development and 2) data collection and analysis. The roadmap organizes existing needs into a step by step framework for incorporating Complete Streets into infrastructure asset management programs and policies. Policy implications include the need for network-level performance measures and targets that the entire agency is responsible for, improved data collection techniques, and internal structural adjustments to encourage collaboration and data sharing within departments of transportation. • Surveyed all 50 states with in-depth interviews with two. • Agencies need performance measures related to Complete Streets. • Agencies need to consider new data collection and analysis methods. • Roadmap to incorporating complete streets in asset management policies is proposed. • Roadmap is divided into data collection and performance measure pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuropsychology plays an important role in optimizing epilepsy management, but there are no practice guidelines for low‐ and middle‐income countries with emerging services. The National Epilepsy Surgery Support Activity Network (NESSAN), a national working group that supports and optimizes epilepsy surgery programs in India, explored the present status of pre‐ and post epilepsy surgery neuropsychological assessment practices across India as an initial step in developing national evidence‐based test guidelines. An online survey was conducted using two questionnaires, one for neurologists and the second for neuropsychologists and speech–language pathologists working in epilepsy surgery centers. The questions to neurologists covered the setting, description, and nature of the neuropsychology services provided for adults and children as part of the epilepsy surgery program, and their perceptions about the importance and indications for neuropsychological assessment in epilepsy surgery. The questions to neuropsychologists inquired about their qualifications and training, pre‐ and postsurgical assessment procedures, and domain‐specific cognitive tests and scales for mood, quality of life, and language evaluations. Forty‐three centers responded, and neuropsychology services were available at three fourth of the centers, but a dedicated full‐time neuropsychologist was available in only 16% of centers. Ninety percent of the neurologists considered neuropsychological evaluation an indispensable part of presurgical evaluation. However, only a few of them believed that the results influenced their decision about the extent of resection and ruling against surgery. The survey found considerable heterogeneity in terms of qualifications and training of neuropsychologists, evaluation procedures, test protocols, and normative data that will need to be harmonized to ensure uniform practice across the country. We believe that the results from this survey provide a road map for implementing measures to minimize existing inadequacies and harmonize neuropsychology services in India and as well as in other countries with emerging neuropsychology services. Plain Language Summary: Neuropsychological assessment is an integral part of the pre‐ and post epilepsy surgery evaluations. In India, the National Epilepsy Surgery Support Activity Network (NESSAN), a body of multidisciplinary professionals, conducted a survey to examine existing neuropsychology practices. The responses from 43 centers across the country revealed considerable heterogeneity in tests and few trained and qualified neuropsychologists. In low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) with emerging neuropsychology services, there is a need to have uniform test protocols, specialized training, and guidelines for optimizing neuropsychology services across all the epilepsy surgery centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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For novice researchers, creating a list of interview questions as part of the interview procedure to collect data for addressing the research questions is always a challenge. Despite several studies have provided vital suggestions for novice researchers in developing and refining interview questions, few studies offer a clear path for designing and improving interview questions. The suggested guidelines from past research lack empirical evidence, particularly in the field of education. This study aimed to present the process of developing and refining an interview protocol used in an international school teacher retention study. This study suggested and tested five phases in the development and refinement of a qualitative interview protocol: i) establishing preliminary questions based on a literature review; ii) ensuring alignment of interview questions with research questions; iii) constructing an inquiry-based conversation; iv) receiving feedback on interview protocols; and v) piloting the interview protocols. It provides comprehensive and user-friendly guidance for novice researchers in developing qualitative instruments. Using this roadmap can help novice researchers to prepare for the interview process, remain open to new findings and enhance the effectiveness of qualitative interview tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-speech hand gestures offer a rich avenue for research into studying emotion communication because they serve as both prominent expressive bodily cues and an integral part of language. Despite such a strategic relevance, gesture-speech integration and interaction have received less research focus on its emotional function compared to its cognitive function. This review aims to shed light on the current state of the field regarding the interplay between co-speech hand gestures and emotions, focusing specifically on the role of gestures in expressing and understanding both others' and one's own emotions. The article concludes by addressing current limitations in the field and proposing future directions for researchers investigating gesture-emotion interaction. Our goal is to provide a roadmap to researchers in their exploration of the role of gestures in emotions, ultimately contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of how gestures and emotions intersect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The habitat suitability for pollinators is an important factor for biodiversity and crop-based ecosystem services. Most flowering plants, including wild plants, rely on pollination ecosystem services for fructification and reproduction. Suitable nesting sites and accessible floral food resources are crucial to the abundance of pollinator insects. Therefore, the suitability for pollinators and the pollination service itself are influenced by the type of land use, the composition of the land cover and structures in the landscape. One way to estimate pollinator habitat suitability is to use computer models such as ESTIMAP and InVEST. Both models calculate the habitat suitability based on spatial land use data and their suitability as nesting and feeding habitats. Besides the decision for a model, the selected spatial dataset also has important effects on the modelling results. In Germany, a large number of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) datasets is available, such as the European CORINE Land Cover, CORINE Urban Atlas, Biotope types, ATKIS or Open Street Map. These datasets differ in terms of spatial and thematic resolutions, LULC types, and abundance of structural elements, which are crucial input factors for modelling with ESTIMAP and InVEST. We applied and tested both models on the basis of two different datasets in the study area Hannover region in central Germany. A literature-based estimation and expert-based questionnaire determined the biophysical properties required for modelling with ESTIMAP and InVEST. The differences between the results based on two different spatial datasets and the differences between the models were estimated and the results that can be obtained by using freely available data were investigated and compared with the results based on non-publicly available data. The comparison of the results shows that the proportion of near-natural structures in the landscape are a decisive factor for modelling results. The comparison of the models shows that ESTIMAP estimates a higher influence of small structures in the landscape than InVEST, resulting in a higher pollinator habitat suitability. The median similarity index of the two models is between 0.68 to 0.93 for the highly detailed biotope type dataset and 0.40 to 0.79 for the less detailed Corine dataset. The results provide a guidance on how to choose the appropriate model and data to assess pollination ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential promise of the microbiome to ameliorate a wide range of societal and ecological challenges, from disease prevention and treatment to the restoration of entire ecosystems, hinges not only on microbiome engineering but also on the stability of beneficial microbiomes. Yet the properties of microbiome stability remain elusive and challenging to discern due to the complexity of interactions and often intractable diversity within these communities of bacteria, archaea, fungi, and other microeukaryotes. Networks are powerful tools for the study of complex microbiomes, with the potential to elucidate structural patterns of stable communities and generate testable hypotheses for experimental validation. However, the implementation of these analyses introduces a cascade of dichotomies and decision trees due to the lack of consensus on best practices. Here, we provide a road map for network-based microbiome studies with an emphasis on discerning properties of stability. We identify important considerations for data preparation, network construction, and interpretation of network properties. We also highlight remaining limitations and outstanding needs for this field. This review also serves to clarify the varying schools of thought on the application of network theory for microbiome studies and to identify practices that enhance the reproducibility and validity of future work. Cpsfgx247MkAJpWMo7kUUg Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn more complex outdoor–indoor transition scenarios, people were more prone to getting lost due to difficulties in effectively integrating proprioceptive cues and external navigation cues. Previous research had mostly focused on spatial perception driven by head or limb movements, with less discussion on locomotion methods that involved significant visual discrepancies. The challenge in designing navigation systems lies in balancing the enhancement of wayfinding performance with the potential negative impact on spatial cognition. We believe that navigation legibility might be a key optimization approach. Additionally, the differences in performance between different age groups were also worth investigating. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how locomotion methods and navigation legibility affected wayfinding performance, navigation interaction, navigation regression, and spatial cognition in younger and older adults during outdoor–indoor transition scenarios. Twenty-four younger (aged 19–27) and 24 older adults (aged 60–83) underwent VR wayfinding tasks. Participants initially followed virtual phone navigation from outdoor starting points to indoor endpoints, then drew cognitive route maps. Five main findings emerged: Continuous teleportation positively affected navigation performance and global representation of routes. Improving navigation legibility boosted navigation interaction, navigation regression, and global representation of routes. Older adults engaged more in navigation interaction but less in navigation regression, exhibiting poorer performance and route representation. Location-specific differences were observed in locomotion, legibility, and age effects. Furthermore, most older adults and over half of younger adults displayed a deflection effect based on outdoor–indoor (OI) space in route representation. These findings indicated that continuous teleportation and enhanced navigation legibility could improve user experience and spatial cognition, highlighting the importance of considering user age and the characteristics of outdoor–indoor transition scenarios when optimizing navigation methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optogenetics opened the door to a new era of neuroscience. New optical developments are under way to enable high-resolution neuronal activity imaging and selective photostimulation of neuronal ensembles in freely moving animals. These advancements could allow researchers to interrogate, with cellular precision, functionally relevant neuronal circuits in the framework of naturalistic brain activity. We provide an overview of the current state-of-the-art of imaging and photostimulation in freely moving rodents and present a road map for future optical and engineering developments toward miniaturized microscopes that could reach beyond the currently existing systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Value stream mapping (VSM) is an initial and critical tool for deploying lean concepts in the manufacturing and service sectors, including hospitals. Therefore, the aim of this research is to analyze the current working environment of a radiology department, identify the wastes in the operations by mapping the current patient flow, and test the best possible improvement plan with the help of discrete event simulation modeling using the Arena platform to develop an optimum future map to mitigate the wastes. Therefore, the current patient flow in the x-ray section of a radiology department was mapped using VSM for two types of patients named routine (RP) and procedure (PP). VSM results highlighted a high waiting time (TWT) of 188 and 3732 min for RP and PP. A total of seven scenarios were developed and analyzed to determine the impact of changes on five key performance indicators. Simulation results of the current scenario showed that there were 567 patients coming out of the system with a lead time of 200 and 926 min for RP and PP. Total waiting time obtained for RP and PP was 177 and 860 min, with a maximum wait time of 31 min/patient and an average of 43 patients in the system (WIP). The simulation results of the seventh scenario provided the best results, with 6% improvement in the number of patients getting out of the system and 75% and 55% decreased lead time for RP and PP. Total waiting time for RP and PP was reduced by 80% and 60%, with WIP falling by 62%. Arena Optimizer showed that by adding a technician and radiologist to the system, the optimum patient waiting time in the queue would be 6 min, and the lead time for RP and PP would be (160) and (884 min), respectively. Based on it, a future VSM was created; it provided a reduction of 72% and 60% in (TWT) for RP and PP, which could improve the number of patients to be entertained by the radiology services without adding any new x-ray machines. The results of the present case provide healthcare planners with a road map to discover the waste in operations since the monetary investment and organizational dedication required drive out non-value activities. Therefore, simulation helps to select the best possible improvement strategy for the system without pausing and making physical changes in busy and complex units of hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seasonal prediction of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) and Monsoon Intraseasonal Oscillations (MISO), as well as the Madden Julian Oscillations (MJO) that strongly modulate MISO, is important to the country for water and crop management. We have analyzed the precipitation, convection, and cloud in the selected models from the sixth generation Coupled Model Intercomparison Projects (CMIP6). This study highlights the significant differences in simulating MISO and MJO features between the selected CMIP6 models and their possible reasons. The mean and intraseasonal features of MISO and MJO varied significantly in CMIP6 models, which may impact better depiction of convection and total cloud fraction. The probability distributions of rainfall and OLR in CMIP6 models also indicate significant variations in simulating the MISO and mean ISM. The results demonstrate the importance of cloud and convection in CMIP6 models to depict realistic MISO and MJO and provide a road map for improving ISM climate prediction and projections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is an editorial introduction to the second part of a special issue of the journal Queueing Systems. The special issue focuses on product forms, stochastic matching, and redundancy models in the analysis of queueing systems. The papers in this collection explore various aspects of matching queues and redundancy systems, including fluid approximation, heavy traffic limits, and different scheduling policies. The goal of the special issue is to highlight the connections between these models and their product-form stationary distributions, and to inspire new directions for future research. [Extracted from the article]

Recently, driven by redundancy systems and matching systems, there has been renewed interest in models with product form stationary distributions. By a "product form," we mean that the stationary distribution can be expressed as a product of terms, each of which corresponds to a job in the system. Given the recent discovery of many such systems, it is natural to ask: how broad is this class of systems? In this paper, we consider extensions and generalizations of the recently-proposed pass-and-swap queue, which has a product-form stationary distribution. We make three main contributions. First, we identify sufficient conditions under which pass-and-swap queues can be connected in a closed network, while still preserving the product form. Second, we identify dimensions along which the pass-and-swap system can be extended while preserving the product-form stationary distribution. At the same time, we also identify cases in which generalizing the pass-and-swap queue causes the product-form nature of the stationary distribution to break. Finally, we identify questions that remain open and present a road map for future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploitation of urban subsurface space in urban inventory planning is closely connected to the quality of urban environments. Currently, the construction of underground pedestrian streets is characterised by inefficiency and traffic congestion, making them insufficient for fulfilling the demand for well-designed and human-centred spaces. In the study of spatial quality, traditional evaluation methods, such as satellite remote sensing and street maps, often suffer from low accuracy and slow updating rates, and they frequently overlook human perceptual evaluations. Consequently, there is a pressing need to develop a set of spatial quality evaluation methods incorporating pedestrian perspectives, thereby addressing the neglect of subjective human experiences in spatial quality research. This study first quantifies and clusters the characteristics of underground pedestrian spaces using spatial syntax. It then gathers multidimensional perception data from selected locations and ultimately analyses and predicts the results employing machine learning techniques, specifically Random Forest and XGBoost. The research results indicate variability in pedestrians' evaluations of spatial quality across different functionally oriented spaces. Key factors influencing these evaluations include Gorgeous, Warm, Good Ventilation, and Flavour indicators. The study proposes a comprehensive and applicable spatial quality evaluation model integrating spatial quantification methods, machine learning algorithms, and multidimensional perception measurements. The development of this model offers valuable scientific guidance for the planning and construction of high-quality urban public spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second graders used their own school-ground explorations, using journals and iPads for pictures and narrated videos, to create traditional, two-dimensional models of their school-grounds and all its natural and human-made features. These data collection techniques were built-upon by a classroom guest who brought his drone for demonstration and to provide additional picture and video footage for the students. Although location, orientation, and spacing initially posed major challenges, students soon became excellent cartographers with outstanding maps (models) to share. After analyzing a host of two-dimensional maps, they extended their map-making skills into the creation of three-dimensional maps using homemade modeling dough, paint, and other materials. Throughout the learning process, students continually practiced the skill of observing data (their school-grounds) and representing it with continually improved-upon models (maps). Throughout, the CCC of patterns was interwoven, with the teachers ultimately extending it to analyzing state road maps, for patterns, in the end. As a result of this learning sequence of creating 2D and 3D maps, the teachers agreed that the students truly experienced a three-dimensional learning experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introducing dental implants into a patient's oral health plan requires a collaborative effort between all members of the care team, including the "implant dentist" and referring general dental practitioner (GDP), should the treatment be carried out in a referral practice. This article aims to discuss the pivotal role referring general dental practitioners (GDPs) play in preparing patients for dental implant placement, whatever the setting for the planned treatment. An overview of the patient referral process is outlined, as is the role of GDPs in the ongoing maintenance of the dental implants and the patient's oral health. Furthermore, this article may be viewed as a road map for GDPs who refer patients to an "implant dentist" as part of their treatment plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-opetition is gaining increasing attention as a potentially useful form of inter-organisational collaboration model to improve firms' sustainable performance. However, limited previous studies have provided a clear substantive theory or offered empirical evidence for the process of sustainability-driven co-opetition. This paper explores how competing companies can collaborate in their supply chains (SCs) to achieve a higher level of sustainability performance by identifying drivers, facilitators and barriers of co-opetition. Based on two explorative case studies of co-opetition in the UK, the findings of this paper lead to a number of propositions and a theoretical framework for sustainability-driven co-opetition in SCs. This study contributes to the literature by providing a more in-depth understanding of co-opetition as a strategic capability for firms. This paper also proves the feasibility of a combined use of Resource-Based View and Network Theory perspectives in explaining a paradoxical inter-organisational relationship like co-opetition. A road map for sustainability-driven co-opetition in SCs is also provided as a heuristic decision model for practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an exploration of the intersection between management, artificial intelligence (AI), and occupational health and safety (OHS), delving into the evolution of safety systems and the integration of advanced technologies. To address the barriers to AI adoption in OHS and maximize the benefits of AI integration, the article proposes an AI Adoption Roadmap for OHS, delineating phases for assessment, planning, implementation, monitoring, continuous improvement, and the establishment of a data-driven safety culture. By embracing AI-driven solutions and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, organizations can proactively address safety challenges and cultivate safer, healthier work environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the study reported on here we aimed to determine and compare teacher perceptions of the concept of virtual reality between Turkish and South African teachers using metaphors. We adopted a phenomenological approach, and a questionnaire was administered to a total of 100 teachers in both countries, using random sampling. The study included 4 schools - 2 secondary schools selected from each country. The data obtained were analysed and categorised into themes using the metaphor mismatch technique. The following themes were identified and interpreted, learning, entertainment, technology, art, travel, and imagination. Teachers presented metaphors based on relevance to their area of practice and perceived potential use of virtual reality in teaching and learning. Based on the number of metaphors identified, teachers held a narrow perception in the categories, entertainment, technology, and travel, while more metaphors, with varied sample explanation responses were identified in the categories of learning, art, and imagination. The findings of this study can be used to develop a user road map for teacher professional development and to inform policy on the use of virtual reality in teaching and learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than three decades ago, we embarked on a number of bioengineering explorations using the most advanced materials and fabrication methods. In every area we ventured into, it was our intention to ensure fundamental discoveries were deployed into the clinic to benefit patients. When we embarked on this journey, we did so without a road map, not even a compass, and so the path was arduous, sometimes tedious. Now, we can see the doorway to deployment on the near horizon. We now appreciate that overcoming the challenges has made this a rewarding and exciting journey. However, maybe we could have been here a lot sooner, and so maybe the lessons we have learned could benefit others and accelerate progress in clinical translation. Through a number of case studies, including neural regeneration, cartilage regeneration, skin regeneration, the 3D printing of capsules for islet cell transplantation, and the bioengineered cornea, here, we retrace our steps. We will summarise the journey to date, point out the obstacles encountered, and celebrate the translational impact. Then, we will provide a framework for project design with the clinical deployment of bioengineered products as the goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study evaluated the acceptance, feasibility and safety of a short-term group program for adults (18 years and older) and youth (16 to 18 years) with borderline personality disorder (BPD) symptoms. Termed Road Maps, the content and development were informed by common treatment factors identified from evidence-based therapies for BPD. Method: Two-hundred and eight people consented to participate in the research trial and completed baseline measures. Intervention participants rated the acceptability and subjective experience of the group. Attrition rates informed feasibility, and serious adverse events were tracked to identify potential harms. Results: Participant post-group ratings of the group's acceptability and subjective experience were above average across both adult and youth populations. Attrition rate after commencement of group was 38% for adults and 27% among youth. The incidence rate of emergency department presentations was reduced by 41% in the 6 months post-group, relative to 6 months pre-group. Conclusions: The current study provides preliminary support for the acceptability and feasibility of a short-term group therapy program for people with a diagnosis of BPD. Road Maps may be a useful intermediate intervention in a broader model of stepped care. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12622000849796.aspx, (ACTRN12622000849796) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes a systematic approach based on axiomatic design incorporating lean and ergonomic principles within the proposed design. The contribution to the body of knowledge is to keep construction workers safe by fostering a secure construction environment. Axiomatic design and lean approaches are combined to address human factors and eliminate wastes that hinder a safe construction environment. The application of the proposed system is set in the context of the construction industry. The methodology provides the construction sector with a road map toward reducing the occurrence of accidents and serves as a complementary approach between lean and ergonomic principles. The design solution has been validated and partially applied in a metro construction firm. Results show that the design solution can improve the efficiency of the construction phases by adopting a value-maximization strategy and has the potential to improve the safety and ergonomics of construction projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently prequalified a new dispersible and more palatable paediatric formulation of the antischistosome drug praziquantel (PZQ). Now there is a need for implementation research to address current scientific evidence, tools, and operational strategy gaps to facilitate its deployment. Endemic countries need strategies and road maps for accessing, delivering, and scaling up adoption of this new formulation. Schistosomiasis is the second most important parasitic disease of public health importance in Africa, affecting over 50 million children aged < 5 years old. Schistosomiasis control has focused on treating school-aged children (>6 years) and adults through mass drug administration (MDA). Following the recent development of a paediatric praziquantel (PZQ) formulation for children aged <5 years, there are now concerted efforts to determine optimal and effective ways to integrate treatment of these children into national schistosomiasis control programmes. In this opinion article we outline the pathway for successful drug access, delivery, and mainstreaming of the new formulation in endemic country health systems. Effective and sustained paediatric schistosomiasis treatment is an important target of the 2030 World Health Organization (WHO) neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) roadmap. Schistosomiasis is the second most important parasitic disease of public health importance in Africa, affecting over 50 million children aged < 5 years old. Schistosomiasis control has focused on treating school-aged children (≥6 years) and adults through mass drug administration (MDA). Following the recent development of a paediatric praziquantel (PZQ) formulation for children aged <5 years, there are now concerted efforts to determine optimal and effective ways to integrate treatment of these children into national schistosomiasis control programmes. In this opinion article we outline the pathway for successful drug access, delivery, and mainstreaming of the new formulation in endemic country health systems. Effective and sustained paediatric schistosomiasis treatment is an important target of the 2030 World Health Organization (WHO) neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) roadmap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The functional structure of territorial space is an important factor for analyzing the interaction between humans and nature. However, the classification of remote sensing images struggles to distinguish between multiple functions provided by the same land use type. Therefore, we propose a framework to combine multi-source data for the recognition of dominant functions at the block level. Taking the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Greater Bay Area (GBA) as a case study, its block-level 'production–living–ecology' functions were interpreted. The whole GBA was first divided into different blocks and its total, average, and proportional functional intensities were then calculated. Each block was labeled as a functional type considering the attributes of human activity and social information. The results show that the combination of land use/cover data, point of interest identification, and open street maps can efficiently separate the multiple and mixed functions of the same land use types. There is a great difference in the dominant functions of the cities in the GBA, and the spatial heterogeneity of their mixed functions is closely related to the development of their land resources and socio-economy. This provides a new perspective for recognizing the spatial structure of territorial space and can give important data for regulating and optimizing landscape patterns during sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the diverse uses of research reactors compared to power reactors, a variety of safety aspects must be considered in their design and operation. On the other hand, due to the high age of a large percentage of these reactors, the need to update them in order to respond to the growing needs of today’s society is inevitable. One of the items that increase the features in terms of proliferation, economy, usability, security and nuclear to meet the requirements of today’s society is core conversion. The advantages and necessities of using new fuel in research reactors include the possibility of forming a more compact core, reducing operating costs, reducing security challenges, protection, environmental effects, transportation and end-of-cycle processes. In this study, the roadmap for research reactors core conversion is drawn considering all aspects of this issue which would be very useful for research reactor roadmap of any country especially our country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To inform future learning opportunities, we performed a scoping review to identify competencies relevant to physical activity (PA) specialists in supporting the PA and mental health of people experiencing mental health concerns. CINAHL, PsycINFO, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched up to June 22, 2022, for research studies and commentaries. Pertinent text was extracted and subject to content analysis using an inductive approach. Sixty-two competencies from 62 publications were organized into four domains: (a) interacting with mental health care services/systems, (b) responding to mental health concerns, (c) employing PA counseling/coaching to promote mental health among people with diverse mental health needs, and (d) building relationships that are responsive to diverse mental health needs. These findings may serve as a road map for stakeholders interested in developing PA specialists' confidence to meet the challenges of navigating mental health contexts. Despite consistency across sources, points of divergence warrant consideration from learning institutions and professional bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the time asymptotics of the inhomogeneous coupled Schrödinger equations i∂tuj+Δuj=|x|−ρ∑1≤k≤majk|uk|p|uj|p−2uj$$ \mathrm{i}{\partial}_t{u}_j&#x0002B;\Delta {u}_j&#x0003D;{\left&#x0007C;x\right&#x0007C;}&#x0005E;{-\rho}\left(\sum \limits_{1\le k\le m}{a}_{jk}{\left&#x0007C;{u}_k\right&#x0007C;}&#x0005E;p\right){\left&#x0007C;{u}_j\right&#x0007C;}&#x0005E;{p-2}{u}_j $$, where j∈[1,m],ρ>0$$ j\in \left[1,m\right],\rho >0 $$, and uj:ℝt×ℝx3→ℂ$$ {u}_j:{\mathrm{\mathbb{R}}}_t\times {\mathrm{\mathbb{R}}}_x&#x0005E;3\to \mathrm{\mathbb{C}} $$. Here, one treats the energy‐critical regime u(0,·)∈[H1(ℝN)]m$$ u\left(0,\cdotp \right)\in {\left[{H}&#x0005E;1\left({\mathrm{\mathbb{R}}}&#x0005E;N\right)\right]}&#x0005E;m $$ and 1=sc:=N2−2−ρ2(p−1)$$ 1&#x0003D;{s}_c:&#x0003D; \frac{N}{2}-\frac{2-\rho }{2\left(p-1\right)} $$. This is the index of the invariant Sobolev norm under the dilatation ‖λ2−ρ2(p−1)u(λ2t,λ·)‖H˙sc=λμ−N2+2−ρ2(p−1)‖u(λ2t)‖H˙sc$$ {\left\Vert {\lambda}&#x0005E;{\frac{2-\rho }{2\left(p-1\right)}u}\left({\lambda}&#x0005E;2t,\lambda \cdotp \right)\right\Vert}_{{\dot{H}}&#x0005E;{s_c}}&#x0003D;{\lambda}&#x0005E;{\mu -\frac{N}{2}&#x0002B;\frac{2-\rho }{2\left(p-1\right)}}{\left\Vert u\left({\lambda}&#x0005E;2t\right)\right\Vert}_{{\dot{H}}&#x0005E;{s_c}} $$. To the authors knowledge, the technique used in order to prove the scattering of an energy global solution to the above problem in the sub‐critical regime s

To ensure the safe production of mines, the intelligent trend of underground mining operations is gradually advancing. However, the operational environment of subterranean mining is intricate, making the conventional path-planning algorithm used by mining inspection robots frequently inadequate for real requirements. To safeguard the mining inspection robot, targeting the problem of low search efficiency and path redundancy in the path planning of the existing rapidly exploring random tree (RRT) algorithm in the narrow and complex unstructured environment, a path-planning algorithm combining improved RRT and a probabilistic road map (PRM) is proposed. Initially, the target area is efficiently searched according to the fan-shaped goal orientation strategy and the adaptive step size expansion strategy. Subsequently, the PRM algorithm and the improved RRT algorithm are combined to reduce the redundant points of the planning path. Ultimately, considering the kinematics of the vehicle, the path is optimized by the third-order Bessel curve. The experimental simulation results show that the proposed path-planning algorithm has a higher success rate, smoother path, and shorter path length than other algorithms in complex underground mining environments, which proves the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]