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Background: Despite the existence of physical activity policies across many countries, insufficient physical activity remains a major global public health problem. Physical inactivity is an emergent feature of complex systems; it results from a wide range of factors at multiple levels that interact to influence behavior. Traditional approaches to public policy often fail within complex systems, largely due to unpredictability in how the system will respond. Adaptive policies, which are designed to allow for uncertainty about future system behavior and to change over time, may offer a promising solution. In this paper, we introduce the concept of adaptive policies and illustrate how this innovative approach to policy making may be beneficial for reducing physical inactivity. Design: Drawing on existing literature and guiding principles for policy making, we provide 3 examples to illustrate how the concept of adaptive policies can be applied to address physical inactivity. Discussion: The examples illustrate how changes to the way policies and interventions are developed, implemented, and evaluated could help to overcome some of the limitations in existing practices. A key challenge will be engaging policymakers to take a broader perspective of the physical activity system, develop policies that are designed to be adaptable across a range of different future scenarios, and embrace uncertainty and long-term adaptability. Conclusion: Adaptive policies may support decision makers globally to achieve the widespread and sustained changes necessary to increase population levels of physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercializing technological innovations is a strategic goal in entrepreneurial ventures and established firms. A fundamental decision that remains understudied in this context is the form in which the innovation is to be commercialized. The authors term this decision the firm's "product-form strategy" for the innovation. In Study 1, they employ a theories-in-use approach and, using in-depth interviews and field observations with technology entrepreneurs and angel investors, develop a theory of product-form strategy—to market the innovation as know-how, a component, or a system—and identify the primary drivers of this choice. The theory is tested using a multimethod, multicontext approach. In Study 2, the authors use proprietary investment proposals generated by entrepreneurial ventures when they seek support from angel investors. In Study 3, they test the theory using video transcriptions of technology proposals from the television show Shark Tank. In Study 4, the authors assess the internal validity of the theory with active angel investors as subjects. They find consistent support for their theory and conclude with implications for theory and managerial practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional healthcare systems have suffered from different data communication, security, data processing, and compliance issues. The traditional systems are also not well equipped to handle the new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) by enabling more accurate diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and improved patient outcomes. The existing data communication and security protocols and compliance are also not fully implemented to tackle the system's challenges. This article proposes a Tri‐Tier architecture by using data communication, AI data generative, and regulation and compliance tiers. The data communication tier is based on advanced sensing and monitoring technologies like cloud and edge‐based systems integrated with security detection mechanisms. The edge and cloud layer provides the all functions of the perception layer like smart sensing, visual sensing, and monitoring services, and can control the device's perception and behaviour. The second tier provides the AI data generative functionalities to handle real‐time synthetic medical images for predictive analytics to enhance patient care. This tier also automates routine tasks, such as administrative work and data analysis, which can free up healthcare professionals to focus on more complex tasks. The last regulation and compliance tier is responsible for handling the standards and compliance for healthcare systems. Experiments are conducted to test the data communication and security level of the proposed architecture. The results showed the suitability of existing solutions and synchronization with the proposed architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Addressing the upstream social determinants of health (e.g. built environment, education) can reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases. To do so effectively often requires system-wide collaboration. However, collaborating across multiple sectors, organizations and disciplines within a complex system can be challenging. ActEarly was a public health research consortium that aimed to improve child health by building an interdisciplinary, cross-city partnership to develop and/or evaluate upstream interventions, increase research capacity and improve collaboration between researchers, local authorities and communities. This paper explores ActEarly's experiences of navigating complexity to identify mechanisms that supported its implementation and proposes recommendations for future intersectoral and interdisciplinary population health research collaborations. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal qualitative study of ActEarly, integrating findings from inductive documentary analysis of internal documents (mainly meetings minutes and reports) (n = 114) and interviews (n = 70) with 45 consortium members at three different timepoints (2018, 2021, 2023). Participants worked across different organizations, cities, roles and levels of seniority in the consortium. Findings: Clarity, Unity, Flexibility and Feasibility were seen as the key mechanisms required to support ActEarly's implementation. Clear aims, governance structures and communication were necessary to manage the uncertainty of the complex system. A unified approach, characterized by strong relationships, having a shared vision and communal access to resources supported effective collaboration. Flexibility was required to adjust to different ways of working, respond to wider system events and manage the consortium. Establishing feasible aims that responded to the limitations of the system, the available resources and research infrastructure was required for teams to deliver the work. Conclusions: Implementing multi-faceted programmes in a complex system can be challenging. We recommend that future whole-systems consortia seeking to improve population health build Clarity, Unity, Flexibility and Feasibility into their programmes, noting the complex interrelationships between these factors. Iterative reflections from all parties should support delivery amidst the uncertainty that comes with running a population health research collaboration, and strong leadership and governance should play a key role in ensuring that these are built into foundations the programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthquake recurrence intervals, surface-rupture extents, and interactions between faults provide insight into how faults behave and are critical for seismic hazard mitigation and earthquake forecasting. Investigating the paleoseismology of spatially related faults can reveal strain distribution and whether faults rupture as a system or independently. Summer Lake basin, a graben in the northwestern Basin and Range with four active faults (three of which have prior paleoseismic investigations), provides an opportunity to investigate fault interactions. To expand the paleoseismic record, two trenches were excavated across the previously undocumented Thousand Springs fault, exposing a normal fault zone that offsets a sequence of deep- to shallow-water lake sediments, sand dunes containing reworked Mazama ash, and other Cascades-sourced tephra. Tephra units were correlated to known units by their physical characteristics, stratigraphic sequence, glass chemistry, and two new radiocarbon dates from the uppermost lake sediments. Using trench exposures, measured vertical separations through auguring, colluvial wedges, and extrapolated offsets based on a constant sedimentation rate, we identified at least five surface-rupturing earthquakes with a total offset of 3.4 + 2/-1 m in the past ~65 ka. The oldest event (EH5) occurred at 63.8 ± 1.5 ka, event horizon 4 at 36.2 ± 12.7 ka (which could be more than one event), and event horizon 3 at 24.6 ± 0.3 ka. Event horizon 2, a warping event at our site, is likely more than one event and occurred between 7.5 and 10 ka; and the most recent event (EH1+), most likely more than one event, occurred between 3.3 and 7.7 ka. Several events correlate, within error, with events on other faults in the Summer Lake basin, suggesting that (1) the faults generally rupture together as a system, (2) the most recent earthquake may have ruptured all faults in the region, and (3) fault rupture is influenced by the rapid regression of Lake Chewaucan (~13 ka). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we have estimated the coda Q (QC) and the geometrical spreading factor (gamma) for the Saurashtra region that is located in the western part of the Deccan Volcanic Province, Gujarat, India. The waveform data from the seismic network operated by the Institute of Seismological Research, Gandhinagar, are used for the analysis. We have used records of a total of 221 local earthquakes with epicentral distances less than 70 km from the seismic stations. The moment magnitude range of the earthquakes is 2.5-5.3, and the depth range is 1-22 km. The QC has been estimated at five central frequencies (1.5, 3, 6, 12, and 20 Hz) using 20, 30, and 40 s window lengths for vertical, north-south, and east-west components, respectively. The obtained QC values show that the attenuation in the region has a strong dependence on frequency and points toward a heterogeneous medium. The geometrical spreading factors are also estimated for two cases, that is, with and without Q at the same central frequencies and window lengths. The average geometrical spreading factors with Q are 1.37, 1.48, 1.40, 1.08, and 1.04, at central frequencies 1.5, 3, 6, 12, and 20 Hz, respectively, whereas it is 1.59, 1.53, 1.47, 1.19, and 1.14, respectively, in the absence of Q. The estimated values also indicate that the medium is heterogeneous in the Saurashtra region. The estimated region-specific coda Q and the geometrical spreading factor may help in the modeling of strong ground motions and assessment of the seismic hazard for the Saurashtra region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the state and actuator fault reconstruction problem in a class of switched linear systems subjected to unknown external disturbances according to average dwell time (ADT) technique. First, a robust switched sliding mode observer (SMO) is developed to simultaneously reconstruct the states of the switched system and the actuator faults. A novel and less conservative sufficient stability conditions are then established using the multiple quadratic Lyapunov function technique and the ADT approach. These conditions are formulated as linear matrix inequalities (LMI) to facilitate the design of the SMO. The observer gains matrices are obtained throughout the resolution of LMI using convex optimization techniques. Next, actuator faults are estimated by utilizing the concept of equivalent output injection, achieved through an analysis of the state error dynamics during the sliding motion. Finally, simulation results are considered to illustrate the applicability and efficiency of the developed method. It showcases the rapid and accurate convergence of the estimated system states and actuator fault to the real variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapidly changing world with a high degree of uncertainty in the context of climate change requires sustainable and resilient infrastructures, for which engineers are jointly responsible. For this purpose, engineering students need to acquire competencies such as dealing with complexity and uncertainty, systems thinking and anticipatory thinking, which are linked to resilience. However, research has shown that engineering education falls short of providing future professionals with these competencies. This case study aims to give a holistic view of a teaching approach to address these shortcomings in the context of problem- and case-based learning. Based on a pre-post survey and reflective diaries, students' perception of their competency development and their learning progress are analyzed and discussed, following a mixed-methods approach. Findings indicate that both perception of competencies related to systems resilience, such as analyzing scenarios and evaluating crisis approaches, and interpersonal competencies, such as communication and resolving conflicts have significantly improved during the course. At the same time, the former were less pronounced before the course and developed the most during the course. The results underline the need for fostering engineering students' ability to dealing with resilience issues in order to design resilient infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our research group dedicated its idea in developing and analyzing an algorithm for transforming integrated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) groups (IUGs) using visible light communication (VLC) technology. This innovative approach is designed to enhance UAV network coordination, addressing the complex challenges of communication within these networks. The primary issue addressed is the pressing need for advanced communication mechanisms within UAV networks to ensure efficient. This is a robust data transfer and complex coordination between UAVs. The existing systems lack the required adaptability and efficiency, leading to operational inefficiencies and reduced effectiveness in UAV applications. The main results of the study are concluded in the design and implementation of the conversion algorithm. Which provides efficient and reliable data transmission and sophisticated coordination between UAVs. Through careful mathematical modeling of UAV group dynamics and extensive MATLAB simulations, the study demonstrates the algorithm's ability to effectively control UAV formations. This method gives adaptability to different operational requirements and supports collision-free maneuvers. The algorithm's innovative design and the comprehensive approach adopted in the study, including the use of VLC technology and the integration of advanced restructuring methods, enable the effective resolution of the identified communication challenges within UAV networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to analyze and understand mutual relationships between lean and agile enabling factors in the context of the construction domain and put forth the most driving and dependent enablers for a hybrid lean–agile system (HLAS). Design/methodology/approach: A threefold research flow is adopted. First, the content analysis of literature stemmed from the identification of preliminary enablers (n = 26). Second, a questionnaire survey (n = 101) is administered to downsize enablers to ten using the relative importance index. Further, in the third phase, interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and the cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification analysis were performed amid the ten key enablers through pairwise interactions from subject matter experts (n = 19). Hierarchical representation of enablers has been presented, which facilitates a conceptual model for application in the construction industry. Findings: The ISM model demonstrates a three leveled classification structure that showcases direct and transitive relationships among various enablers. "Use of project management tools" is the driving enabler, followed by "collaborative and common data platform working" and "institution of team training" are critical enablers to HLAS adoption. Originality/value: A structured way of identification of interdependent among lean–agile is a vital unique contribution to this study. The results serve as a knowledge base for practical adoption of HLAS and may prove to be influential in developing a framework for easier adoption in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this research were to create a topographic model using Mathematica and hydrologic model using ArcGIS for water management aimed at preventing forest fires in the Khuan Kreng peat swamp forest. Pan basin area in Kreng Sub-district, characterized by low mountains, where the Cha-Uat canal intersects the krajood forest, was revealed by the hydrographic model. Kreng Sub-district was traversed by three main streams: Khuan canal, Hua Pluak Chang canal, and Laem canal. Additionally, several tributary canals that interconnect, ultimately converging into the Cha-Uat Phraek Muang canal were identified. During the dry period, the water from these canals flowed into the Cha-Uat Phraek Muang canal. To mitigate the risk of fires, it was essential to install water table measuring devices and underground barrier gates at the drain points. This ensured the return of water from the Cha-Uat Phraek Muang canal to the Khuan Kreng peat swamp forest. Maintaining sufficient water table level was crucial, as the occurrence of fires was more likely when the water table dropped below the soil surface. When the swamp forest was adequately hydrated, wildfires were confined to a narrow area since they could only burn on the forest surface, which was easier to extinguish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders worldwide, affecting approximately 280 million people, with probably much higher unrecorded cases. Depression is associated with symptoms such as anhedonia, feelings of hopelessness, sleep disturbances, and even suicidal thoughts. Tragically, more than 700 000 people commit suicide each year. Although depression has been studied for many decades, the exact mechanisms that lead to depression are still unknown, and available treatments only help a fraction of patients. In the late 1960s, the serotonin hypothesis was published, suggesting that serotonin is the key player in depressive disorders. However, this hypothesis is being increasingly doubted as there is evidence for the influence of other neurotransmitters, such as noradrenaline, glutamate, and dopamine, as well as larger systemic causes such as altered activity in the limbic network or inflammatory processes. In this narrative review, we aim to contribute to the ongoing debate on the involvement of serotonin in depression. We will review the evolution of antidepressant treatments, systemic research on depression over the years, and future research applications that will help to bridge the gap between systemic research and neurotransmitter dynamics using biosensors. These new tools in combination with systemic applications, will in the future provide a deeper understanding of the serotonergic dynamics in depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid-19 pandemic showed forcefully the fundamental importance broadband data communication and the internet has in our society. Optical communications forms the undisputable backbone of this critical infrastructure, and it is supported by an interdisciplinary research community striving to improve and develop it further. Since the first 'Roadmap of optical communications' was published in 2016, the field has seen significant progress in all areas, and time is ripe for an update of the research status. The optical communications area has become increasingly diverse, covering research in fundamental physics and materials science, high-speed electronics and photonics, signal processing and coding, and communication systems and networks. This roadmap describes state-of-the-art and future outlooks in the optical communications field. The article is divided into 20 sections on selected areas, each written by a leading expert in that area. The sections are thematically grouped into four parts with 4–6 sections each, covering, respectively, hardware, algorithms, networks and systems. Each section describes the current status, the future challenges, and development needed to meet said challenges in their area. As a whole, this roadmap provides a comprehensive and unprecedented overview of the contemporary optical communications research, and should be essential reading for researchers at any level active in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Kidney Allocation System (KAS) was implemented by United Network for Organ Sharing in 2014 to reduce allocation disparities. Research Questions: Outcomes of highly sensitized patients (calculated panel reactive antibody (cPRA) ≥ 97%) before and after KAS were compared to low-risk recipients (cPRA <10%) in the post-KAS era were examined. The impact on racial disparities was determined. Design: This was a retrospective study of national registry data. Two cohorts of adult candidates waitlisted for deceased donor transplantation during 3-year periods before and after KAS were identified. Results: Highly sensitized patients (N = 1238 and 4687) received a deceased donor kidney transplant between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2013 and between January 1, 2015 and December, 31, 2017. Racial disparity for highly sensitized patients improved, yet remained significant (P < 0.001), with Black patients comprising 40% and 41% of the highly sensitized candidates and 28% and 34% of the recipients pre- and post-KAS. While posttransplant death-censored graft failure for highly sensitized recipients was similar overall, post-KAS was associated with improved graft survival in the first year after transplant (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.40-0.78). When compared to contemporaneous lowrisk recipients, both death-censored and all-cause graft failure were similar for highly sensitized recipients and was associated with increased risk for death-censored graft failure beyond the first year (HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.11-1.73). Conclusion: The allocation system led to an increase in transplantation in highly sensitized candidates without compromising outcomes. Although KAS has led to more balanced transplant rates between highly sensitized Black and White patients, racial inequalities persist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Regulations designed to protect children participating in clinical research often restrict the availability of research data necessary for the development of age-specific therapies and drug dosing. Few data exist on how children experience participation in clinical research, and studies investigating young children undergoing an intensive medical treatment are lacking. Methods: Mixed methods with semi-structured interviews and DISCO-RC questionnaires were used to explore young children's and their parents' experiences in clinical research participation during a kidney transplantation trajectory. Findings: Nine children and their parents were interviewed. Children's median age at kidney transplantation was 4 years (IQR 4,7); age at interview was 7 years (IQR 6,9). Thematic content analysis of interviews revealed that most children were unaware of having participated in a study. Both children and their parents frequently were unaware whether procedures were standard care or research related. The additional burden attributed to study participation varied from not at all to heavy in combination with intensive medical treatment. Positive experiences included kind healthcare professionals, effective distraction techniques, educational aspects, contributing to science and extra check-ups. Most reported negative experiences were conflicting communication, spending much time in the hospital, missing school and suboptimal planning. Venous puncture was stressful for all children, whereas the discomfort of other procedures varied. Conclusion: Pediatric clinical research design should focus on education and fun during research procedures, smart planning, consistent communication, close collaboration between clinical and research team and age appropriate distraction techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Self-Assessment Survey (SAS) 4.0, an updated measure assessing implementation fidelity of positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS). A total of 627 school personnel from 33 schools in six U.S. states completed the SAS 4.0 during the 2021–2022 school year. We evaluated data demonstrating the measure's reliability (internal consistency, interrater reliability between PBIS team and non-team members), internal structure, and convergent validity for assessing implementation of Tier 1, 2, and 3 systems. We found strong internal consistency (overall and across subscales) and evidence regarding the internal structure as a four-factor measure. In addition, we found the SAS 4.0 (overall score and subscales) to be statistically significantly correlated with another widely used and empirically evaluated PBIS fidelity measure, the Tiered Fidelity Inventory (TFI). We found a statistically significant correlation between the SAS 4.0 and the SAS 3.0 for the Schoolwide Systems subscale but not other subscales. We discuss limitations given the current sample and describe implications for how PBIS teams can use the measure for school improvement and decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rural U.S. residents experience a disproportionate burden of diet and physical activity (PA) related chronic disease compared to urban residents, due to resource and economic challenges. Diverse policy approaches for chronic disease prevention have been implemented to address barriers to breastfeeding, healthy eating, and PA. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to describe policy supports for breastfeeding, healthy eating, and/or PA occurring in rural U.S. areas. Methods: A scoping review was conducted March-June 2020 to identify policy, systems, and environment change approaches occurring in the rural U.S. for breastfeeding, healthy eating, and PA. Search procedures were guided by the PRISMA-ScR, Arksey and O'Malley's work (2007), and a science librarian. Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, and Agricola were used to identify peer-reviewed research. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses A&I were used to identify dissertation research. Grey literature searches included Google, Google Scholar, government pages, and public health, federal nutrition assistance program, Cooperative Extension Services, and related webpages. Policy results are reported and inclusion criteria were: (1) breastfeeding, healthy eating, and/or PA focus; (2) about policy factors; (3) specific to U.S. rural populations/places; and (4) English language. Outcomes (study/source design, objective(s), methods/measurement, setting, population characteristics, behavioral focus, policy-specific results) were extracted into a standardized Excel document. Results: Results include 122 total sources: original research, with some sources referencing multiple behaviors, (n = 74 sources: 8 breastfeeding, 41 healthy eating, 42 PA), grey literature (n = 45 sources: 16 breastfeeding, 15 healthy eating, 27 PA), and graduate research (n = 3 sources: 1 breastfeeding, 2 healthy eating, 1 PA). Breastfeeding policy initiatives included policies or programs at hospitals, increasing access to resources, and improving culture or norms at workplaces. Healthy eating policy initiatives included increasing access to healthy foods, reducing financial burden, implementing programs, food assistance programs, and healthy food prescriptions at healthcare facilities. PA policy initiatives focused on Complete Streets, joint or shared use efforts, Safe Routes to Schools, master plans for greenways, trails, and/or transportation, school health plans, and childcare/school standards. Conclusions: Results from this scoping review compile and offer commentary on existing policy solutions to improve breastfeeding, healthy eating, and/or PA in the rural U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Beef cattle production in the tropics is based on the grazing system. Concentrate supplementation has a significant influence on carcass gain and meat quality. Additionally, the inclusion of some lipid feedstuffs, such as rumen-protected fat (RPF), can increase the net energy for weight gain, and be an alternative to increase the productive performance and carcass traits of grazing beef cattle. Aims: This study evaluated the effects of RPF on performance, carcass traits and feeding behaviour of Nellore bulls in an intensive grazing system during the rainy season. Methods: Twenty-four Nellore bulls (initial bodyweight of 454.0 ± 46.1 kg) were used in a randomised completed block design, based on initial bodyweight. The animals were distributed in 12 paddocks (two bulls per paddock) in a continuous grazing system and randomly assigned to one of two treatments: control (n = 6), a concentrate without added protected fat provided ad libitum , and RPF (n = 6), a concentrate with the addition of 3% protected fat (Nutricorp, Araras, São Paulo, Brazil) provided ad libitum. Statistical analysis was performed using the MIXED procedure of SAS 9.4 with paddock as the experimental unit (12 paddocks). The principal model included fixed effect of treatment and block as a random effect. For forage characteristics, the experimental period was a considered fixed effect. The study lasted 105 days, and was divided into four periods. At the end of each period, forage collections were performed, bulls were weighed and feeding behaviour was recorded. After 105 days, the bulls were slaughtered in a commercial slaughterhouse, and three 2.54-cm Longissimus dorsi steaks of each animal were collected to evaluate the colour, the chemical and physical composition, and the sensory analysis of the meat. Keys results: The inclusion of RPF in the concentrate did not affect (P > 0.05) the final bodyweight, average daily gain, concentrate intake and feed efficiency, but there was a tendency (P < 0.07) for higher carcass weight for the bulls that received RPF. Bulls supplemented with RPF had a greater (P < 0.05) average carcass gain. For meat quality, an effect (P < 0.01) was observed for hue (25.32 and 27.91 for control and RPF, respectively). Conclusions: The addition of 3% RPF in the concentrate ration has the potential to improve carcass traits and meat quality of beef cattle in an intensive pasture finishing system. Implications: The inclusion of RPF will increase dietary energy density of grazing beef cattle with a tendency to increase carcass gain. This can be an opportunity to increase the production per animal and income of farmers. The inclusion of rumen-protected fat in the diet of grazing beef cattle may be a strategy to increase dietary energy density, and consequently improve the performance and carcass characteristics without negative effects on ruminal microbiota and fibre digestibility. Twenty-four non-castrated animals were subjected to this test. The average daily carcass gain and meat quality were improved by the inclusion of protected fat in the diet of grazing cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systems thinking has been recognized as valuable to public health policy, research and practice. Commentators and reviews have highlighted that there is still much to be done to embrace its potential. Here, we highlight that much of the discourse about systems thinking in, and for, public health supports the pursuit of a narrow path and is limited with respect to the lineages of Systems that are embraced. We invite readers to see the potential of systems thinking in pursuing a broader path which is motivated by a concern for alleviating health inequalities. This does not replace the narrow path but encompasses it. It prompts different considerations with respect to the nature of the transformation, partnership working and legitimacy. It also invites a different way of engaging with systems thinking and different ways of conceptualizing and managing change. The broad path both requires, and helps enhance, new ways of doing, relating, organizing, knowing and framing which are vital for the future of public health as a global concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refugee young people have high rates of unmet mental health needs. Established barriers to accessing mental health care may be contextual to the host country and its support systems. The aim of this study was to establish the perspectives of refugee young people, parents, and service providers on service responses across one middle-income and one high-income country, Turkey and the UK, respectively. In Turkey, eight professionals (social work, psychology, and education), ten parents and ten young people took part. In the UK, stakeholders included four professionals (health, educational psychology, and non-statutory), seven parents and seven young people. Data were analyzed using a codebook thematic approach. Despite structural differences between the two systems, several commonalities were identified in responses. Conceptualization of mental health, stigma, shame, and parents' language acquisition acted as barriers to help-seeking in both countries, whilst schools were viewed as central to the initiation of interventions. Contextual barriers in Turkey included child marriage and labor, whilst reliance on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) facilitated joint care pathways. In the UK, providers aimed to adapt and extend care pathways through primary health care. Recommendations included designated policy, joint working, schools acting as service hubs, awareness, and training professionals on contextual knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex systems pose significant challenges to traditional scientific and statistical methods due to their inherent unpredictability and resistance to simplification. Accurately detecting complex behavior and the uncertainty which comes with it is therefore essential. Using the context of previous studies, we introduce a new information-theoretic measure, termed "incoherence". By using an adapted Jensen-Shannon Divergence across an ensemble of outcomes, we quantify the aleatoric uncertainty of the system. First we compared this measure to established statistical tests using both continuous and discrete data. Before demonstrating how incoherence can be applied to identify key characteristics of complex systems, including sensitivity to initial conditions, criticality, and response to perturbations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this paper is to study the p-k-Hessian problems. To our knowledge, the problems that has additional term in the p-k-Hessian operator were seldom studied in the literature. By means of monotone iteration method and Arzelà-Ascoli theorem, this paper investigates the existence of positive radially symmetric solutions of the following augmented p-k-Hessian equations S k (λ (D i (| D u | p - 2 D j u) + α I)) = a k (x) f k (u) , x ∈ R n , and p-k-Hessian systems 0.1 S k (λ (D i (| D u | p - 2 D j u) + α I)) = a k (x) f k (v) , x ∈ R n , S k (λ (D i (| D v | p - 2 D j v) + α I)) = b k (x) g k (u) , x ∈ R n. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonexistence theorems constitute an important part of the theory of differential and partial differential equations. Motivated by the numerous applications of fractional differential equations in diverse fields, in this paper, we studied sufficient conditions for the nonexistence of solutions (or, equivalently, necessary conditions for the existence of solutions) for nonlinear fractional differential inequalities and systems in the sense of Erdélyi-Kober. Our approach is based on nonlinear capacity estimates specifically adapted to the Erdélyi-Kober fractional operators and some integral inequalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As urbanization continues to reshape transportation, the safety of cyclists in complex traffic environments has become a pressing concern. In response to this challenge, our research introduces a CycleInSight framework, which harnesses advanced deep learning and computer vision techniques to enable precise and efficient cyclist detection in diverse urban settings. Utilizing you only look once version 8 (YOLOv8) object detection algorithm, the proposed model aims to detect and localize vulnerable cyclists near vehicles equipped with onboard cameras. Our research presents comprehensive experimental results demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying vulnerable cyclists amidst dynamic and challenging traffic conditions. With an impressive average precision of 90.91%, our approach outperforms existing models while maintaining efficient inference speeds. By effectively identifying and tracking cyclists, this framework holds significant potential to enhance urban traffic safety, inform data-driven infrastructure planning, and support the development of advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Addressing the upstream social determinants of health (e.g. built environment, education) can reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases. To do so effectively often requires system-wide collaboration. However, collaborating across multiple sectors, organizations and disciplines within a complex system can be challenging. ActEarly was a public health research consortium that aimed to improve child health by building an interdisciplinary, cross-city partnership to develop and/or evaluate upstream interventions, increase research capacity and improve collaboration between researchers, local authorities and communities. This paper explores ActEarly’s experiences of navigating complexity to identify mechanisms that supported its implementation and proposes recommendations for future intersectoral and interdisciplinary population health research collaborations. Methods We conducted a longitudinal qualitative study of ActEarly, integrating findings from inductive documentary analysis of internal documents (mainly meetings minutes and reports) (n = 114) and interviews (n = 70) with 45 consortium members at three different timepoints (2018, 2021, 2023). Participants worked across different organizations, cities, roles and levels of seniority in the consortium. Findings Clarity, Unity, Flexibility and Feasibility were seen as the key mechanisms required to support ActEarly’s implementation. Clear aims, governance structures and communication were necessary to manage the uncertainty of the complex system. A unified approach, characterized by strong relationships, having a shared vision and communal access to resources supported effective collaboration. Flexibility was required to adjust to different ways of working, respond to wider system events and manage the consortium. Establishing feasible aims that responded to the limitations of the system, the available resources and research infrastructure was required for teams to deliver the work. Conclusions Implementing multi-faceted programmes in a complex system can be challenging. We recommend that future whole-systems consortia seeking to improve population health build Clarity, Unity, Flexibility and Feasibility into their programmes, noting the complex interrelationships between these factors. Iterative reflections from all parties should support delivery amidst the uncertainty that comes with running a population health research collaboration, and strong leadership and governance should play a key role in ensuring that these are built into foundations the programme.

To ensure proper administration of land in Botswana, the Government of Botswana adopted Land Administration Procedures Capacity and Systems (LAPCAS). With this system, all land in the country must be registered using digital means. Despite this unique effort to improve land administration, the implementation of the policy has faced various challenges. This research explored the challenges in the implementation of LAPCAS to propose alternative ways that the Ministry of Lands and Water Affairs (MLWA) could adopt to improve the situation. This study adopted a systematic literature review approach for data collection and analysis. Although LAPCAS generated some positive impacts, it has experienced more challenges than anticipated. Challenges, including loopholes and delays, resource constraints and poor coordination, characterised the implementation of LAPCAS. These challenges have hampered the government’s overall efforts to address concerns associated with the ownership and control of land in the country. Consequently, the researchers have called for the development of a new land administration framework that is anchored on the core issues inherent in the Framework for Effective Land Administration (FELA). The tenets of the FELA have been identified as critical to developing a better alternative land administration framework that the MLWA can employ to deal with challenges in the implementation of LAPCAS in Botswana. This research helps to expand the existing literature on policy actions, programmes and frameworks for effective land administration, especially in the context of Botswana.

Abstract Background Rural U.S. residents experience a disproportionate burden of diet and physical activity (PA) related chronic disease compared to urban residents, due to resource and economic challenges. Diverse policy approaches for chronic disease prevention have been implemented to address barriers to breastfeeding, healthy eating, and PA. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to describe policy supports for breastfeeding, healthy eating, and/or PA occurring in rural U.S. areas. Methods A scoping review was conducted March-June 2020 to identify policy, systems, and environment change approaches occurring in the rural U.S. for breastfeeding, healthy eating, and PA. Search procedures were guided by the PRISMA-ScR, Arksey and O’Malley’s work (2007), and a science librarian. Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, and Agricola were used to identify peer-reviewed research. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses A&I were used to identify dissertation research. Grey literature searches included Google, Google Scholar, government pages, and public health, federal nutrition assistance program, Cooperative Extension Services, and related webpages. Policy results are reported and inclusion criteria were: (1) breastfeeding, healthy eating, and/or PA focus; (2) about policy factors; (3) specific to U.S. rural populations/places; and (4) English language. Outcomes (study/source design, objective(s), methods/measurement, setting, population characteristics, behavioral focus, policy-specific results) were extracted into a standardized Excel document. Results Results include 122 total sources: original research, with some sources referencing multiple behaviors, (n = 74 sources: 8 breastfeeding, 41 healthy eating, 42 PA), grey literature (n = 45 sources: 16 breastfeeding, 15 healthy eating, 27 PA), and graduate research (n = 3 sources: 1 breastfeeding, 2 healthy eating, 1 PA). Breastfeeding policy initiatives included policies or programs at hospitals, increasing access to resources, and improving culture or norms at workplaces. Healthy eating policy initiatives included increasing access to healthy foods, reducing financial burden, implementing programs, food assistance programs, and healthy food prescriptions at healthcare facilities. PA policy initiatives focused on Complete Streets, joint or shared use efforts, Safe Routes to Schools, master plans for greenways, trails, and/or transportation, school health plans, and childcare/school standards. Conclusions Results from this scoping review compile and offer commentary on existing policy solutions to improve breastfeeding, healthy eating, and/or PA in the rural U.S.

In the autism field, there is increasing interest in translating evidence-based interventions (EBIs) into systems that serve young autistic children and their families. Public Early Intervention systems have been a focal point of research-based implementation efforts given that these systems are federally mandated to provide services to children birth to three years of age with developmental delays under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Although a growing number of research studies are now training Early Intervention providers to deliver autism EBIs, this work has been conducted on a relatively small scale and has only just begun to consider the alignment of these models with Early Intervention systems and whether sufficient infrastructure exists to scale up these training efforts and to sustain their public health impact. This commentary aims to address this gap by reviewing factors that have been found to uniformly impact the scale-up of EBIs across diverse public systems (Fagan 20, 1147–1168, 2019), and to extend this framework to the implementation of EBIs within public Early Intervention systems. These factors include developer and funder capacity, the public's awareness of and support for EBIs, the system's leadership support for EBI use, the capacity for community engagement in implementation efforts, the availability of a skilled workforce capable of delivering EBIs, and the capacity for data monitoring and quality improvement. This commentary discusses how these factors may specifically impact the scale-up of autism EBIs within EI systems to support toddlers and young, autistic children, and implications for autism researchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay analyzes the 2007 board game Pandemic in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic. The essay explores the connections between the reality of Pandemic and the play of COVID-19. To do this, it uses Ian Bogost's interpretation of systems (both real and imagined) to invite a dialectic of reality and game simulation. The interaction of such systems, in a game whose theme became real, highlights a major tenet of game studies—the borders between reality and games are thin, blurred, and mobile, if they exist at all. Games, in their simulation of the real, are mimetic, and, in turn, reality has become gamified. The essay examines the board game and highlights its mechanics, which include cooperation and mitigation of risk. It also explores how the game and reality blur their borders in this instance of play, inviting further study into the ramifications of simulated games and the fantasy of the real. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonexistence theorems constitute an important part of the theory of differential and partial differential equations. Motivated by the numerous applications of fractional differential equations in diverse fields, in this paper, we studied sufficient conditions for the nonexistence of solutions (or, equivalently, necessary conditions for the existence of solutions) for nonlinear fractional differential inequalities and systems in the sense of Erdélyi-Kober. Our approach is based on nonlinear capacity estimates specifically adapted to the Erdélyi-Kober fractional operators and some integral inequalities.

The contextual approach focuses on students' interests, experiences, and backgrounds in education. It aims to help students understand and relate learning materials to their daily lives, either personally, socially, or culturally. Research Objectives: (1) To describe the implementation of vocabulary system education for beginners based on the contextual approach at Dar Al-Falah Religious School in Ramban Kulon Cermee Bondowoso. (2) To identify the problems encountered in implementing vocabulary system education for beginners based on the contextual approach at Dar Al-Falah Religious School in Ramban Kulon Cermee Bondowoso. (3) To describe the solutions to the problems encountered in implementing vocabulary system education for beginners based on the contextual approach at Dar Al-Falah Religious School in Ramban Kulon Cermee Bondowoso. Our problem statement and data acquisition methods have been thorough and precise. Through interviews, documentation, and questionnaires, we have gathered data that shows students follow the vocabulary system for beginners in an organized and obedient manner. Furthermore, activities in learning the vocabulary system for beginners run smoothly and are organized, with the enthusiasm and motivation provided by the teacher to the students. This has led to a noticeable increase in students' diligence and enthusiasm in memorizing the vocabulary system for beginners, a promising sign for the effectiveness of our proposed solutions.

it is well-known that environmental graphic design is one of the messaging and advertising requirements in our life. Therefore, acquaintance with culture of society and knowing its norms, values, customs, and regulations can be significantly important to environmental graphic design. As designer knows deeply about culture and moods of society people, he can easily establish simple and deep communication with audience through simple and clear express, and in simple words designer can return audience identity to him with the new express and different framework and in this way can speak to him. Environmental graphic is a knowledge in which discussed and studied about how use different kinds of forms, colors, figures, and various pictures in a skillful, systematic, and planned way in order to making better and more simple relations, informing, and orientation, and also making beautiful the urban spaces such as public spaces. This knowledge is one of the most effective tools to effect on citizenships, and with visual design and relation it can return identity to audiences and seek to reform it based on components such as culture, customs and social contracts, economic and political trends and so on. This research aims to study the communicative role of the interactive environmental sign as an environmental graphic system. The research concludes that interactive environmental sign as an environmental graphic system through common media applied in urban environmental graphic such as poster, signs, highway signs, road signs, advertisings on vehicles, parks environmental design, design of buildings and resulted colors, public services spaces design, bus stops, phone booth, seats, environmental design of cultural and pleasure centers, design advertising sculptures in squares and parks, and different outdoor advertising

This paper responds to Friend's (2023) critique of the Powers-BSA , a view according to which laws of nature are efficient descriptions of how modally laden properties (powers) are possibly distributed in spacetime. In the course of this response, the paper discusses the nature of scientific and metaphysical explanation, the aim of science, and the structure of modal space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discussions around reasons for foster care entry primarily focus on family-level service needs. However, families exist within social environments that can either increase or reduce risk for foster care entry. This qualitative study draws on interviews (n = 27), focus groups (n = 7), and open-ended survey responses (n = 548) from child-serving professionals in Indiana to identify community- and systems-level factors contributing to entry. Through qualitative coding we identified eight themes at the community- and systems-levels that direct attention toward modifiable dimensions of the social environment that can serve as targets for policy and practice reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This introduction to a special issue of Nonlinear Dynamics, Psychology and Life Sciences on the topic of resilience discusses the contributing articles in terms of their flexibility in methods, models, scale, and contexts combined with their integrity in shared theoretical understanding and generative knowledge. The ubiquity of resilience is discussed, a feature of potentially any living or non-living system and substance. This breadth calls for a flexible set of models and methods, along with the quest for integrative theory to make resilience science more resilient. Since resilience involves the ability of a substance or system to persist, to repair or recover, and to evolve, any common theory would consider structural integrity (the ability to hold together), flexibility (the ability to adjust and return), time and timing. Nonlinear dynamical systems theory is proposed as the only scientific perspective capable of building this sort of common knowledge of a ubiquitous process involving these specific features. The synopsis of each article's contribution to the issue includes an analysis of the flexibility the article adds in terms of models, methods, scale, and applied context, along with the theoretical integrity produced with respect to these common features of resilient processes: flexibility, integrity, time, and timing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotorcrafts are very complex systems that require a huge systems engineering effort to design, implement and integrate. A successful aircraft design is a matter of good integration between engineering disciplines and suppliers just as much as it is about finding a good technical solution to the customers' expectations. This issue is well understood within the industry and competent authorities. Companies now face the challenge of transitioning from integrating complex systems to make an aircraft (as per ARP4754) to engineering and collating a complex aircraft system as per ARP4754A: in other words, the focus shifted to a more holistic view to the aircraft development, a game changer in all respects. Leonardo Helicopters is tailoring its internal processes to reflect this change and challenge. While the ideal process can be defined today, the transition takes time and a significant change in culture and organization needs to take place. To support the transition, the authors have developed a hybrid approach to the aircraft architecture and system requirements definition process. This new approach leverages existing expertise at a system level to facilitate the integration between systems and the subsequent migration to bridge the gap with the aircraft engineering activities required by the ARP4754A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Off‐grid solar systems provide clean and affordable energy sources. Adoption of off‐grid Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular in Kenya as a source of renewable energy, with an estimated 10 million people using off‐grid solar power systems as of the end of year 2022. However, the rising off‐grid solar systems technology uptake comes with a growing amount of solar e‐waste, which can have harmful environmental and health effects if not managed properly. Current data on the exact amount of solar e‐waste being generated in Kenya is unavailable and this amount will continue to rise with the expiry of many of these off‐grid solar systems lifespans. This study through stakeholder's workshop and document review data collection and analysis approaches, established that Kenya just like many countries in the Global South has a robust general waste policy and regulation management framework. However, it lacks specific policies and regulations on off‐grid‐solar electronic waste management a challenge that many countries in the Global North have made considerate steps in addressing. In addition, there is a lack of awareness of the hazardous nature of off‐grid solar systems' e‐waste components to both consumers and institutions of governance. There is a lack of adequate infrastructure and sufficient systems for off‐grid solar e‐waste management in the country. Enforcement and implementation challenges of the existing general waste regulations due to limited resources and capacity and corruption culture are major impending factors. This calls for the development of effective policies and regulations to ensure sustainable off‐grid solar e‐waste management in Kenya against the backdrop of the rising uptake of off‐grid solar systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This commentary on Curren et al. adopts an educational policy perspective, arguing that it is important to not only 'find consensus' on well-being in education but to consider the ways that education policy supports or inhibits this outcome. It argues that a complex systems approach is essential to moving these ideas rooted in ethics and justice into policy and practice. It advocates a comprehensive cross-sector policy approach that integrates education policies at multiple levels and with policies across other sectors that are significant for well-being. It emphasizes that operationalizing these ideas at scale requires consideration of the research evidence on structural racism, gender inequities, and funding disparities, and it emphasizes the importance of focusing on relationships in educational systems and the need for policy leadership and activism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recommender systems (RS) primarily rely on user feedback as a core foundation for making recommendations. Traditional recommenders predominantly rely on historical data, which often presents challenges due to data scarcity issues. Despite containing a substantial wealth of valuable and comprehensive knowledge, user reviews remain largely overlooked by many existing recommender systems. Within these reviews, there lies an opportunity to extract valuable insights, including user preferences and contextual information, which could be seamlessly integrated into recommender systems to significantly enhance the accuracy of the recommendations they provide. This paper introduces an innovative approach to building context-aware RS, spanning from data extraction to ratings prediction. Our approach revolves around three essential components. The first component involves corpus creation, leveraging Dbpedia as a data source. The second component encompasses a tailored named entity recognition (NER) mechanism for the extraction of contextual data. This NER system harnesses the power of advanced models such as bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT), bidirectional long short term memory (Bi-LSTM), and bidirectional conditional random field (Bi-CRF). The final component introduces a novel variation of factorization machines for the prediction of ratings called contextual factorization machines. Our experimental results showcase robust performance in both the contextual data extraction phase and the ratings prediction phase, surpassing the capabilities of existing state-of-the-art methods. These findings underscore the significant potential of our approach to elevate the quality of recommendations within the realm of contextaware recommender systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burgeoning demand for efficient urban traffic management necessitates accurate prediction of traffic congestion, spotlighting the essence of time series data analysis. This paper delves into the utilization of sophisticated deep learning methodologies, particularly long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, convolutional neural networks (CNN), and their amalgamations like Conv-LSTM and bidirectional-LSTM (Bi-LSTM), to elevate the precision of traffic pattern forecasting. These techniques showcase promise in encapsulating the intricate dynamics of traffic flow, yet their efficacy hinges upon the quality of input data, emphasizing the pivotal role of data preprocessing. This study meticulously investigates diverse preprocessing techniques encompassing normalization, transformation, outlier detection, and feature engineering. Its discerning implementation significantly heightens the performance of deep learning models. By synthesizing advanced deep learning architectures with varied preprocessing methodologies, this research presents invaluable insights fostering enhanced accuracy and reliability in traffic prediction. The innovative RD-LSTM approach introduced herein harnesses the hybridization of a reverse AutoEncoder and LSTM models, marking a novel contribution to the field. The implementation of these progressive strategies within urban traffic management portends substantial enhancements in efficiency and congestion mitigation. Ultimately, these advancements pave the way for a superior urban experience, enriching the quality of life within cities through optimized traffic management systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gazi Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Dergisi Part C: Tasarım ve Teknoloji is the property of Gazi University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In today's competitive construction industry, companies are under increasing pressure to enhance efficiency and productivity. This research examines how digitalization can address issues such as market instability, low productivity, lack of investment in innovation, workforce issues, and management deficiencies. It explores the potential of technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Lean Construction (LC) to improve project management. The "House of COANFI" framework, integrating Lean principles with strategy, process, projects, and people, is proposed as a solution for enhancing project management, promoting organizational coherence, continuous improvement, and technological adoption. The methodology includes a literature survey, stakeholder workshops, developing an information system, and validation through case studies. Key findings highlight the benefits of COANFI implementation, including better data management, improved productivity, collaborative integration, and organizational learning. However, challenges such as resistance to change, data quality issues, and integration complexity must be addressed. The study concludes that digitalization, supported by frameworks like COANFI, can significantly enhance efficiency and competitiveness. Future research should validate these methodologies in real-world applications, explore strategies for managing organizational change, and investigate the impact of digital technologies on sustainability, helping the construction sector achieve long-term growth and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergence is central to critical realism, but there has been little attempt to develop a systematic account of this concept within the tradition. Two notable exceptions are seen in the work of Dave Elder‐Vass and Tony Lawson. However, both face problems in responding to reductionist claims and accounting for downward causation. This paper proposes contextual emergence as a robust alternative that overcomes these issues and provides a better justification for critical realism's stratified worldview. Contextual emergence explains that while properties at a lower 'level' offer necessary conditions, for emergence to obtain, there must also be contingent conditions at a higher 'level'. This approach maintains many of critical realism's intuitions about emergence, providing a robust account of ontological stratification and downward causation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the site selection for a new repository for low and intermediate level radioactive waste in Slovenia. The ordered weighted average method is used in combination with the TOPSIS method to evaluate the current site and its alternatives considering eight criteria and five constraints. The results show that 52.37% of the country's area falls into five suitability classes for the two decision alternatives, while others do not fulfil the criteria at all. In both cases, the most suitable areas are located in the north-eastern part of Slovenia. The current site tends to be less suitable (categorised as moderately suitable and very unsuitable) and should be reassessed by the relevant stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accidents in engineered systems are usually generated by complex socio-technical factors. It is beneficial to investigate the increasing complexity and coupling of these factors from the perspective of system safety. Based on system and control theories, System-Theoretic Accident Model and Processes (STAMP) is a widely recognized approach for accident analysis. In this paper, we propose a STAMP-Game model to analyze accidents in oil and gas storage and transportation systems. Stakeholders in accident analysis by STAMP can be regarded as players of a game. Game theory can, thus, be adopted in accident analysis to depict the competition and cooperation between stakeholders. Subsequently, we established a game model to study the strategies of both supervisory and supervised entities. The obtained results demonstrate that the proposed game model allows for identifying the effectiveness deficiency of the supervisory entity, and the safety and protection altitudes of the supervised entity. The STAMP-Game model can generate quantitative parameters for supporting the behavior and strategy selections of the supervisory and supervised entities. The quantitative data obtained can be used to guide the safety improvement, to reduce the costs of safety regulation violation and accident risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseño y Comunicación is the property of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseno y Comunicacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Land Management / Türkiye Arazi Yönetimi Dergisi is the property of Mersin University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Financial, Accounting & Managerial Studies is the property of Journal of Financial, Accounting & Managerial Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Due to breast cancer's prevalence as the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide, accurate survival prediction models are crucial. This study aimed to use an optimized deep neural network to predict breast cancer patient survival. Material and Methods: The present study is an analytical study. The information utilized in this research is derived from the METABRIC database, associated with the molecular categorization of breast cancer patients, from the International Federation of Breast Cancer's Molecular Taxonomy Data. The total number of patients studied is 1981. Of these, 888 patients were under care until their death, and the remaining patients withdrew from the study during its course. In this database, 22 clinical features of patients have been considered, which includes a total of 6 quantitative features and 16 qualitative features. A deep neural network model called the optimized DeepHit is used to predict survival. The optimal parameters for specific variables of the neural network are obtained by the Bayesian algorithm. Results: The optimized model has achieved the criterion of c_index = 0.748, which is a criterion for measuring the capability of survival analysis models. Conclusion: The proposed model was compared with previous models using real and synthetic datasets. The results show that the optimized DeepHit achieved significantly better performance and statistically significant improvements over previous methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]