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This paper combines social fiction and academic analysis to envision hopeful futures for higher education. At the heart of the exploration is Phoebe Wagner's speculative fiction piece, University, Speaking, which personifies a university grappling with environmental, political, and social change. Phoebe Wagner's first-person narrative highlights the power of collective voice, the importance of centering community, and the urgent need to cultivate resilience and adaptability. Through analysis of key themes, this paper connects Phoebe Wagner's fictional vision to contemporary research on the multi-faceted and complex challenges facing universities today. By integrating artistic and academic perspectives, this paper discusses new possibilities for universities navigating disruption and change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many construction projects, a "green premium" must be paid to implement sustainable designs that reduce environmental costs. Design for Adaptability (DfA) is a sustainable design philosophy that facilitates incremental renewal and infrastructure adaptation, thereby delaying future demolition and reconstruction. This paper focuses on the potential economic benefits of DfA. Notably, the paper contributes to answering the following question: is the green premium paid for an adaptable design justified by the potential long-term economic benefits? A modified version of the Black–Scholes financial options model is developed and demonstrated to address this question. A hypothetical case study of a parking garage is explored. This case study compares traditional and adaptable three-level parking garages and their potential expansion to a five-level garage at a future time. The "real option value" (i.e., the economic benefit of having the option to expand in the future) is calculated and compared under various assumptions and input parameters. The selection of reasonable model parameters for a given situation and the limitations of the Black–Scholes approach for valuing adaptable buildings are discussed. The model was developed for institutional (i.e., government or university) owners who consider their buildings as a cost of doing business without a direct relationship to revenue. It is concluded from the case study that the option value from the adaptable features of the parking garage exceeds the green premium given certain conditions. The payoff is most sensitive to the green premium, construction costs, and the owner's inflation value on future additional parking. The work contributes to an economic case for DfA as a sustainability strategy for buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Food supply chain resilience is a critical aspect in ensuring the continuous and reliable flow of food, particularly in the face of disruptions. This study aims to address specific gaps in the existing literature by conducting a bibliometric analysis. The primary objective is to identify key areas of concern and lacunae related to disruptions and resilience within the food supply chain. The study also strives to contribute to the field by developing a comprehensive framework that evaluates the factors influencing resilience. Furthermore, the research intends to propose effective strategies for mitigating and recovering from disruptions, emphasizing the urgency of these measures in light of identified gaps in the current body of literature. Design/methodology/approach: To achieve these objectives, the authors extracted the most relevant papers from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. The analysis parameters included a comprehensive review of current food supply chain practices and an exploration of trending research topics, such as sustainability, adaptability, circular economy and agility. Notably, the study recognized the pervasive impact of COVID-19 on food supply chain disruptions, with a high occurrence in the literature. Using advanced analytics tools like VOSviewer and Biblioshiny, the research delved into the role of modern technologies, including Industry 4.0, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and blockchain in addressing disruptions and enhancing resilience. Findings: The research reveals a significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on food supply chain disruptions, underscoring the critical need for strategies to bolster resilience. Notably, the study identifies the pivotal role of modern technologies (Industry 4.0, IoT, AI, ML and blockchain) in mitigating disruptions and enhancing resilience in the food supply chain. The bibliometric analysis conducted through VOSviewer and Biblioshiny provides valuable insights into research trends and focal areas within the literature. Practical implications: The observed importance of Industry 4.0, IoT, AI, ML and blockchain implies a practical need for integrating these technologies into food supply chain operations. Moreover, the paper discusses strategies for reducing the impact caused by disruptions, providing practical guidance for resilience planning in food supply chains. Researchers can leverage the findings to direct future efforts toward areas with identified gaps and opportunities, fostering advancements in the field and offering practical insights for real-world applications. Originality/value: By amalgamating insights from bibliometric analysis and the developed framework, this study contributes to a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities in fortifying the resilience of the food supply chain. The identified factors and strategies offer valuable insights for researchers and practitioners seeking to address disruptions in food supply chains. The study's unique contribution lies in bridging theoretical perspectives with practical applications, enhancing the relevance of business-to-business/industrial supply chain theories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of volume fracturing has revolutionized the conventional limits of low permeability, expanded the effective resource space, and significantly enhanced oil well production in tight oil reservoir development. This paper elucidates the mechanism of volume fracturing technology for tight sandstone reservoirs by considering multiple factors such as the initiation range of multi-fractures, influence of far-well horizontal principal stress on fracture initiation and propagation, degree of natural fractures development, and mechanical parameters of reservoir rock. Through simulation based on the mechanical parameters of reservoir rock, a comparative analysis was conducted between the model-calculated rock fracture pressure value and measured data from fracturing construction wells in the study area. The results revealed that there was a discrepancy within 10% between the model calculations and actual data. By simulating the effects of different injection volumes of fracturing fluid, pumping rates, and perforation methods on the fracture geometry, optimal design parameters for volume fracturing technology were obtained. Additionally, we propose optimization ideas and suggestions for construction parameters applicable to field operations. The simulation results indicate that a minimum recommended fluid volume scale exceeding 1800 m3 is advised for the reservoir. Based on frictional calculations, it is recommended to have an on-site construction rate not less than 18.0 m3/min along with 36–48 holes/section for perforation purposes. The numerical simulation research presented in this paper provides a theoretical reference basis and practical guidance for the application of fracturing network technology in tight sandstone reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the key role sustainability plays in the agricultural sector and its impact on local communities. With climate change and economic challenges on the rise, it is vital to focus on sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security and well-functioning ecosystems. Throughout the article we highlight global and local initiatives that encourage sustainable agriculture, as well as the benefits to the environment and society, highlighting our shared responsibility to future generations, highlighting collaboration between farmers, communities, governments and international organizations. For the representativeness of what will be presented we use the creative platform Canva, the basic statistical information comes from the National Institute of Statistics (NIS) and FAOSTAT, the descriptive analysis is performed using the advanced tools offered by Microsoft Excel 365 and in addition to standard reference sources, we have also consulted recognized specialized websites, thus strengthening our perspective and providing readers with up-to-date and verified information. The purpose of this review is to examine the depth and breadth of the implications of sustainability in the context of agricultural work, highlighting the complex interconnections between agricultural practices, the environment and society. In conclusion, this article highlights the need for a collective and integrated approach to achieving sustainability goals in agriculture and building a more resilient and balanced future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most discussions, "smart cities" are perceived as a largely positive phenomenon that improves the safety but above all the comfort of its inhabitants. The present paper constructively and critically analyses the approach of de facto unregulated development of "smart cities" with emphasis on the risks associated with this phenomenon. Examples from recent years, not only in the context of developments in Ukraine, show that modern, technological solutions, i.e. e-Government tools, can become a target or even a tool of variously motivated attackers (criminal groups, foreign powers). A "smart" city is often potentially more vulnerable than agglomerations managed more traditionally. This paper aims to demonstrate the possible risks through case studies and determine whether there are more comprehensive theoretical approaches to the subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The education of visually impaired students in China has also gone through a developmental stage from "segregated education" to "special education" and then to "inclusive education". In this paper, we take the visually impaired students at Binzhou Medical College, the first university in China to provide higher education for the disabled, as the research object. The study was carried out to investigate the adaptability of visually impaired students, using various research methods such as literature review method, questionnaire method and case study method, we investigated and researched the adaptation of visually impaired students to inclusive education from several aspects such as quality of life, social support, mental health level, self-esteem and self-efficacy study. Finally, the study proposed several countermeasures and suggestions, such as attaching importance to the physical and psychological rehabilitation of visually impaired students, emphasising the inclusive of education and rehabilitation, strengthening the training of professional teachers for visually impaired students, emphasising the complementarity between schools and professions, and improving the employment support service system for visually impaired students, which are of great significance in promoting the development of the cause of inclusive education for visually impaired students and improving the adaptability of inclusive education for visually impaired students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complex health interventions (CHIs) are increasingly used in public health, clinical research and education to reduce the burden of disease worldwide. Numerous theories, models and frameworks (TMFs) have been developed to support implementation of CHIs. This systematic review aims to identify and critique theoretical frameworks concerned with three features of implementation; adaptability, scalability and sustainability (ASaS). By dismantling the constituent theories, analysing their component concepts and then exploring factors that influence each theory the review team hopes to offer an enhanced understanding of considerations when implementing CHIs. Methods: This review searched PubMed MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for research investigating the TMFs of complex health interventions. Narrative synthesis was employed to examine factors that may influence the adaptability, scalability and sustainability of complex health interventions. Results: A total of 9763 studies were retrieved from the five databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar). Following removal of duplicates and application of the eligibility criteria, 35 papers were eligible for inclusion. Influencing factors can be grouped within outer context (socio-political context; leadership funding, inter-organisational networks), inner context; (client advocacy; organisational characteristics), intervention characteristics (supervision, monitoring and evaluation), and bridging factors (individual adopter or provider characteristics). Conclusion: This review confirms that identified TMFS do not typically include the three components of adaptability, scalability, and sustainability. Current approaches focus on high income countries or generic "whole world" approaches with few frameworks specific to low- and middle-income countries. The review offers a starting point for further exploration of adaptability, scalability and sustainability, within a low- and middle-income context. Trial registration: Not registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of self-adaptive software is becoming increasingly crucial because software has to adapt its behavior at runtime to keep up with dynamic and constantly evolving environments. The ability of software to modify and adjust itself is known as adaptability, which has been acknowledged as an important quality attribute. As software architecture development represents the initial stage of the design process, architectural design has emerged as a critical development activity. The degree to which the architecture can adapt to changes will be the key factor in determining the adaptability of the software ultimately released to users. Existing metrics for software architectural adaptability typically view adaptability as a positive attribute, meaning that any possibility of change in architectural elements is perceived as an improvement in adaptability. However, the application of adaptability that leads to increased costs or complexity can only be seen as a negative attribute. In other words, the side effects brought about solely for the purpose of achieving adaptability are greatly overlooked; that is, the impacts caused by adaptability exhibit both symmetry and asymmetry for software architectural adaptability. On the other hand, the existing measures of adaptability only define it from the perspective of whether a module will change, without considering changes beyond the topological structure under multiple strategies. In this paper, we propose a comprehensive assessment approach to measure software architecture adaptability. Multiple factors are considered, including the number and types of strategies employed, the cost of completing the adaptation, the extent of changes made to the architectural elements, and the overall impact of the adaptation on the architecture. An extended UML (e-UML) component diagram is presented to model software architectural changes under various types of strategies. Finally, an experiment on the znn.com software is conducted to validate the practical feasibility of our proposed method. Our approach can assist software architects in making informed decisions regarding software architecture design options to improve the adaptability and longevity of their software systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2000, during a time when cyber security research was focused on the risks and threats posed by digital systems, the notion of being able to withstand and recover from cyber attacks, also known as cyber resilience, emerged. Recently, this concept has gained increasing attention due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid acceleration of digitalization. While experts acknowledge the distinction between cyber security and cyber resilience, the exact definition and evolution of the latter remain somewhat ambiguous. The aim of this paper is to offer a thorough comprehension of how the notion of cyber resilience has developed throughout history. It delves into the concept of cyber resilience and its progression over time in response to the rising frequency and complexity of cyber threats. Cyber resilience, a new concept, has gained significant recognition as a critical component of cyber security strategy across diverse sectors, encompassing public and private domains alike. It begins with an overview of the definition and key components of cyber resilience and then traces the origin of the concept from its early development in the 2000s. The paper also explores the major milestones and events that have shaped the evolution of this capacity, including changes in technology and societal factors, up to the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. This study provides valuable insights into future challenges for ensuring the continued resilience of digital infrastructure by examining the historical and contextual factors that have influenced the concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the dynamic capabilities of exporters during the pandemic, specifically on export adaptability - since it is core to responding to and enduring the pandemic's turmoil. COVID-19 manifested sudden enduring uncertainty with severe implications for international operations, disrupting global value-chains and impacting world trade with devastating effect - crucially requiring exporting firms to swiftly adapt to cope and surmount havoc. The objectives of the research are twofold: to explore the combined impact of firms' export adaptability dynamic capabilities, together with specific exporter characteristics, on export customer satisfaction in COVID-19 times; to analyse the moderating effect of the firms' competitive advantage on this relationship. Our study investigates agri-food exporting companies in Chile, an export-oriented country in this sector. We adopt a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) methodology. This approach offers ideal causality identification, as it is based on the premise that outcomes of interest usually have multiple interdependent causes. We conclude that the presence of exporting firms' adaptability capability, together with characteristics typically inherent in being a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME), and a permanent exporter, significantly favour export customer satisfaction, and that having a strong competitive advantage intensifies this relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interaction between humans and robots in the workplace garners interest in recent years due to the introduction of Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 frameworks. A scoping review was performed aimed at investigating the effect of robot design features on their human counterparts. In the analysis of the 32 identified articles, the robot design features used in the literature are shown along with the effects on the operators. Results showcased the many to many relationships between robot design features and effects on operators. Robot appearance, for example, and capabilities play a role in the operators' perception and expectations of their capabilities based on the task and subsequently perceived reliability and safety. Communication capabilities between operators and robots is an integral part for teamwork and performance as it can affect work processes. The paucity of papers empirically addressing human robot interaction as a system is consistent with results from previous literature, indicating the need for more research. The results of this investigation can prove useful in the form of advice to designers and practitioners, such as the operator's involvement in implementation, knowledge on robots' capabilities and training. Research gaps identified are discussed, as well as future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we study planned and unplanned adjustment processes in master-planned communities and new towns by a first wave of residents, in which changes in lifestyles play a central role. How can unplanned transitions be stimulated and play a role in making a new town more attractive, sustainable, adjustable, and flexible in use? We apply this to the case of Anting New Town in Shanghai. We focus on both personal and collective adjustments and appropriation in housing, commercial, as well as public space. We explore methods of doing visual research by observation, in line with methods by Venturi and Boudon. By adding economic and socio-cultural drivers and institutional frameworks, which allow these alterations to happen, conclusions are made about the possible sustainability, adjustability, and flexibility of these planned structures. We analyze adjustments from different perspectives on the themes of urbanity and identity: (1) architectural-morphological, (2) functional-economical, and (3) socio-cultural. Following different approaches to studying the planned and unplanned city, we explain how the urbanity and identity of Anting have changed in various ways. Appropriation of building structures and urban spaces is a key element in this process of change. It is the outcome of a wider process of economic and socio-cultural change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction industry plays a major role in the high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, resource consumption, and waste generation observed nowadays. Key to the circular economy, structural component reuse arises as a promising solution to divert construction waste from landfilling and avoid the production of new components. In this context, this paper presents the conceptual design of a new slab-and-column system called "Re:Slab", optimized for disassembly and open-ended reassembly over multiple building lifespans. Beyond conventional considerations of modular sizing and reversible connections, the proposed system provides designers with a minimum kit of parts that is capable of exceptionally diverse building layouts-e.g., related to floor geometry, span between supports, applied loads, and spatial transformations. Attention is given to easily operable assembly and disassembly techniques, embodied environmental impacts, and manufacturing costs. As a result, the proposed system reaches unprecedented high levels of versatility, making it capable of adapting to future functional design requirements that are hard to predict over long-term social developments. Options for increased economic viability are identified, which are necessary to promote widespread adoption of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trees have developed a broad spectrum of molecular mechanisms to counteract oxidative stress. Secondary metabolites via phenolic compounds emblematized the hidden bridge among plant kingdom, human health, and oxidative stress. Although studies have demonstrated that abiotic stresses can increase the production of medicinal compounds in plants, research comparing the efficiency of these stresses still needs to be explored. Thus, the present research paper provided an exhaustive comparative metabolomic study in Dalbergia odorifera under salinity (ST) and waterlogging (WL). Results: High ST reduced D. odorifera's fresh biomass compared to WL. While WL only slightly affected leaf and vein size, ST had a significant negative impact. ST also caused more significant damage to water status and leaflet anatomy than WL. As a result, WL-treated seedlings exhibited better photosynthesis and an up-regulation of nonenzymatic pathways involved in scavenging reactive oxygen species. The metabolomic and physiological responses of D. odorifera under WL and salinity ST stress revealed an accumulation of secondary metabolites by the less aggressive stress (WL) to counterbalance the oxidative stress. Under WL, more metabolites were more regulated compared to ST. ST significantly altered the metabolite profile in D. odorifera leaflets, indicating its sensitivity to salinity. WL synthesized more metabolites involved in phenylpropanoid, flavone, flavonol, flavonoid, and isoflavonoid pathways than ST. Moreover, the down-regulation of L-phenylalanine correlated with increased p-coumarate, caffeate, and ferulate associated with better cell homeostasis and leaf anatomical indexes under WL. Conclusions: From a pharmacological and medicinal perspective, WL improved larger phenolics with therapeutic values compared to ST. Therefore, the data showed evidence of the crucial role of medical tree species' adaptability on ROS detoxification under environmental stresses that led to a significant accumulation of secondary metabolites with therapeutic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We develop a monotone finite volume element scheme for the diffusion problem on arbitrary polygonal grids inspired by the scheme in the literature ([35]). The main contributions of this paper include three aspects. Firstly, some auxiliary lines or points are introduced for any polygonal element so that it can be partitioned into two or more triangles, and one novel type of its control volume is concomitantly designed. In this paper, we mainly discuss quadrilateral grids. Secondly, some piecewise linear finite element spaces are imported for the trial spaces. Fictitious elements, continuous extensions and the nonlinear two-point flux idea can all be inherited from the triangular case. Therefore, the monotonicity of the scheme is easily proved only by the assembling of some triangles' element stiff matrices. Thirdly, the agreeable adaptability for distorted grids is completely borned. The strict convexity restriction on the grids can also be removed, the concave or severely distorted polygonal (such as quadrilateral) grids are transformed as the convex and general regular triangles. Finally, numerical results confirm its monotonicity, accuracy and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on controlling within companies. Because Covid-19 was a moment of crisis, companies wanted to take a series of measures to ensure the stability of the company. Through the interview and survey as the main research methods, I was able to find out how the companies managed to cope with this situation and how the controlling department, which was responsible for developing many strategies, changed in theface of the Covid-19 pandemic. Topics such as digitalisation, adaptability and the introduction of new technologies were also covered. The paper presents the ways in which the company reacted to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the help of the controlling department, they were able to adapt quickly and develop new strategies to overcome this period. Therefore, this paper provides updates regarding the development of this department within the company and the technologies they use to develop more accurate strategies and reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The concept of volume fracturing has revolutionized the conventional limits of low permeability, expanded the effective resource space, and significantly enhanced oil well production in tight oil reservoir development. This paper elucidates the mechanism of volume fracturing technology for tight sandstone reservoirs by considering multiple factors such as the initiation range of multi-fractures, influence of far-well horizontal principal stress on fracture initiation and propagation, degree of natural fractures development, and mechanical parameters of reservoir rock. Through simulation based on the mechanical parameters of reservoir rock, a comparative analysis was conducted between the model-calculated rock fracture pressure value and measured data from fracturing construction wells in the study area. The results revealed that there was a discrepancy within 10% between the model calculations and actual data. By simulating the effects of different injection volumes of fracturing fluid, pumping rates, and perforation methods on the fracture geometry, optimal design parameters for volume fracturing technology were obtained. Additionally, we propose optimization ideas and suggestions for construction parameters applicable to field operations. The simulation results indicate that a minimum recommended fluid volume scale exceeding 1800 m3 is advised for the reservoir. Based on frictional calculations, it is recommended to have an on-site construction rate not less than 18.0 m3/min along with 36–48 holes/section for perforation purposes. The numerical simulation research presented in this paper provides a theoretical reference basis and practical guidance for the application of fracturing network technology in tight sandstone reservoirs.

Background: A 26-year old male testicular cancer survivor presented for Chiropractic care with a primary complaint of intermittent thigh pain. Intervention: The patient underwent a course of subluxation-based Chiropractic care during which he was checked and adjusted using Advanced Bio-Structural Correction Technique. Outcome: Despite a singular presenting concern of intermittent thigh pain from an four-year-old injury, he returned numerous other positive outcomes he attributed to Chiropractic. This presents numerous questions as to the body's state of adaptability even years after cancer, and the role Chiropractic may play in building up this adaptability again over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovations in digital platforms have led to strategic innovations of digital services which are exchanged between digital organizations and their customers. There are significant flows, not only of information, but also of innovation from digital platforms to services through a strategic innovation system. But how and why the flows shape the system are under-explained in the literature. This paper explores these innovation flows in two Ghanaian small-medium enterprises. It aims to explain the flows in order to contribute knowledge of a strategic innovation system which extends previous knowledge of strategic information systems. The explanation is that the stragic innovation system is shaped by innovation flows because of three types of adaptabilities: cognition, software production, and service provision. These adaptabilities are moderated respectively by leading and mutual learning, technologizing and liberating, and customer learning and relating. The theoretical contributions espoused by this explanation are discussed with their research and practical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology that combines radar polarization selection and recognition techniques for navigating objects in atmospheric formations, with a special focus on unmanned surface vehicles (ASVs). The proposed technique utilizes the concept of an energy dissipation matrix to represent these objects as characteristic "shiny dots". By strategically changing the polarization of the emitted and received electromagnetic waves, the resulting echo energy dissipation matrix is determined. This approach allows the formation of an intensity-based repository of atmospheric formations, which gives SRPC a complete set of tools to account for atmospheric conditions in radar identification of remote objects, including ASVs. The practical application of this technique extends to the improvement of a distinct class of shipborne radar systems optimized for ASVs and their specific navigation requirements. Ultimately, this technology bridges the gap between advanced radar technology and the emerging field of unmanned ground vehicles, providing safer and more proficient navigation in challenging weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a cross-country analysis of seven countries in the MENA region and explores the effects of COVID-19 on educational policymaking. The paper uses a quasi-thematic literature review to highlight the emerging themes related to the quality of education during the pandemic. The paper investigates the educational trends in seven MENA region countries and provides descriptive analysis to understand if there were changes from 2016 to 2020. In order to investigate these trends, the study uses the conceptualization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4) “Quality of education.” The analysis is based on the data from the World Bank Development indicators. The paper’s evidence identifies a difference in the level of government expenditure on education within the MENA region. Pre and during COVID-19 provides crucial insights such as all countries increased their government expenditure on education except Egypt and Bahrain. The paper further addresses the contributing factors to the educational gaps in the region, such as digital exclusion, inequality (income and gender), and the government’s budget constraints during the pandemic. This study presents recommendations to bridge these identified gaps in the post-pandemic era.

Purpose: This study aims to discuss job security, emotional stability and adaptability in predicting employee retention of Gen Z employees in Indonesia. Design/methodology/approach: This research uses a quantitative approach with primary data collection. The sample taken was 133 respondents. The data analysis technique used is multiple linear regression using SPSS. Findings: This study found that job security, emotional stability and adaptability succeed to predict employee retention among Gen Z employees in the research context. Research limitations/implications: This study only examines the effect of predictor variables on outcome variables in the context of a manufacturing company and involves only 133 respondents. Practical implications: This finding informs managers that to increase the stay rate of Gen Z employees, their perceptions of job security, emotional stability, and adaptability are important to be maintained. Hence, management needs to pay attention and implement strategies that strengthen these factors to increase the employee retention of Gen Z employees. Originality/value: This paper is an original paper because it has not been published anywhere. Paper type: Research Paper

In most discussions, “smart cities” are perceived as a largely positive phenomenon that improves the safety but above all the comfort of its inhabitants. The present paper constructively and critically analyses the approach of de facto unregulated development of “smart cities” with emphasis on the risks associated with this phenomenon. Examples from recent years, not only in the context of developments in Ukraine, show that modern, technological solutions, i.e. e-Government tools, can become a target or even a tool of variously motivated attackers (criminal groups, foreign powers). A “smart” city is often potentially more vulnerable than agglomerations managed more traditionally. This paper aims to demonstrate the possible risks through case studies and determine whether there are more comprehensive theoretical approaches to the subject.

• Skills for adaptability are gaining growing relevance for life in the 21st century. • To date, research on such skills has focused on learners in high-income contexts. • Research in Rwanda explored teachers' approaches to foster cognitive flexibility. • Teachers used a mix of practical exercises, group work and classroom transitions. • Difficult learning conditions and large class sizes still impede teachers' efforts. Major recent global challenges have highlighted the increasing importance of education systems fostering children's skills for adaptability and capacity for responding to change. Competences such as creativity, innovation and problem solving could be particularly valuable, but in countries like Rwanda little is currently known about how schools and teachers nurture them in the classroom. This paper adopts a psychological framework based on learners' cognitive flexibility to address that gap, drawing on exploratory qualitative data from interviews and lesson observations in primary schools in Kigali, Rwanda. The findings identify teachers' use of practical exercises, group work and frequent transitions between activities and languages as potentially supporting different aspects of children's cognitive flexibility. The paper concludes with implications for nurturing learners' skills for adaptability in similar low-income contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a key equipment in deep-sea drilling and production operations, the riser tensioner provides a nearly constant tensioner for the riser to overcome the influence of the floating platform on the riser when it is makingheave motion with the waves. In the harsh deep-water area, when the tethers of Tension Leg Platform (TLP) failure, the Top Tensioned Risers (TTRs) will jump, resulting in the migration of the riser resonance region, which will cause the parametric resonance and interference phenomenon of the riser. Therefore, based on Adams and AMESim co-simulation, this paper calculates the dynamic characteristics of the displacement tension of the tensioner system on the traditional TLP under tether failure. Based on the dynamic characteristics of the tensioner system, a synchronous control strategy of the displacement tension of the tensioner under tether failure is proposed. The strategy uses the opening of the anti-recoil valve to realize the stable recovery of the riser and adjusts the output tension of the tensioner in the recoil process of the riser through the proportional relief valve. Compared with the traditional control method and non-control method, the effectiveness of this strategy is verified. The results show that the designed displacement tension synchronization control strategy can provide more stable tension for the riser, and the displacement amplitude of the hydraulic cylinder is smaller, which can realize the stable recovery of the riser. Moreover, it is found in many simulations that the opening of the main valve and the displacement curve of the hydraulic cylinder mainly affect the retraction speed of the hydraulic cylinder, and the maximum opening pressure of the proportional relief valve affects the output tension of the tensioner system. • The dynamic characteristics of the tensioner is simulated when the tendon of TLP fails instantaneously. • A hydraulic control system is designed to overcome the influence of a platform on risers. • A double-cavity synchronous control method is adopted for the hydraulic cylinder to realize the compensation control. • Dynamic responses of the cylinders in the anti-recoil control process considering the second-order wave force are simulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: This research explored how crises such as the pandemic influence the family dynamic and the way that the parents and the children face new difficulties and challenges. The present study investigates children's and young people's emotional states, the dimensions of family resilience, and the types of coping strategies and parents' emotional states during the coronavirus pandemic. The final sample for the research was represented by 1,010 parents from Romania. Methods: The present scientific research is a transversal study with the scope to understand the emotional difficulties that parents and children/young people face and the coping strategies that they adopt in a crisis, such as the time of the coronavirus pandemic. Results: Parents with maladaptive coping strategies are more affected by the pandemic. Also, the results indicate that there is a significant correlation between parental coping strategies and the children's emotional states, and the adaptability level. Therefore, the high scores on the subscales which measure maladaptive coping indicate high scores of the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress of the parents. Family resilience, through the dimension of 'communication and problem-solving in the family' has a moderation role in the relationship between parental depression and the maladaptive coping strategy of rumination. Family resilience through 'maintaining a positive attitude' has a moderation role in the relationship between catastrophizing and the teenagers' level of adaptability. Discussion: The results of the study pointed out the role and place of family resilience within the family system and how a period of crisis can affect this system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyzing the genetic diversity and selection characteristics of sheep (Ovis aries) holds significant value in understanding their environmental adaptability, enhancing breeding efficiency, and achieving effective conservation and rational utilization of genetic resources. In this study, we utilized Illumina Ovine SNP 50 K BeadChip data from four indigenous sheep breeds from the southern margin of the Taklamakan Desert (Duolang sheep: n = 36, Hetian sheep: n = 74, Kunlun sheep: n = 27, Qira black sheep: n = 178) and three foreign meat sheep breeds (Poll Dorset sheep: n = 105, Suffolk sheep: n = 153, Texel sheep: n = 150) to investigate the population structure, genetic diversity, and genomic signals of positive selection within the indigenous sheep. According to the Principal component analysis (PCA), the Neighbor-Joining tree (NJ tree), and Admixture, we revealed distinct clustering patterns of these seven sheep breeds based on their geographical distribution. Then used Cross Population Extended Haplotype Homozygosity (XP-EHH), Fixation Index (FST), and Integrated Haplotype Score (iHS), we identified a collective set of 32 overlapping genes under positive selection across four indigenous sheep breeds. These genes are associated with wool follicle development and wool traits, desert environmental adaptability, disease resistance, reproduction, and high-altitude adaptability. This study reveals the population structure and genomic selection characteristics in the extreme desert environments of native sheep breeds from the southern edge of the Taklimakan Desert, providing new insights into the conservation and sustainable use of indigenous sheep genetic resources in extreme environments. Additionally, these findings offer valuable genetic resources for sheep and other mammals to adapt to global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to elucidate the dimensions and components of the competency model for managers at Iran's Water Resource Management Company, aiming to identify the specific competencies needed to navigate the complex challenges of water resource management effectively. Methodology: This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews to collect data from 19 participants, including both academic experts and experienced officials within the water resource management sector. The participants were selected based on stringent criteria related to their experience and expertise in the field. Data analysis was conducted using NVivo software to ensure thorough thematic analysis and theoretical saturation. Findings: The study identified five main themes integral to managerial competency in water resource management: Leadership Competence, Technical Competence, Interpersonal Skills, Analytical Abilities, and Adaptability and Learning. Each theme comprised various categories with specific competencies, such as visionary and ethical leadership, technical and financial management skills, effective communication and collaboration abilities, critical thinking, and continuous personal and professional development. Conclusion: The competencies identified are essential for the effective management of water resources in Iran, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to managerial training and development. The competency model developed provides a structured framework that can guide training initiatives and enhance managerial practices, thereby supporting sustainable water resource management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Leipzig Charter highlights the need for integrated, place-based participatory governance approaches to achieve more sustainable and just urban futures. In this article, we provide a synthesis of our transdisciplinary analysis of ten EU projects which were selected from over 100 EU-funded urban sustainability and justice projects. Through analysing these cases according to the question of 'How can city makers design governance processes for just and sustainable outcomes?', we identify six Enabling Governance Arrangements which are considered of high relevance to the integration of urban sustainability and justice through both municipality and community-led initiatives. Each Enabling Governance Arrangement was not only observed at play in multiple initiatives but was also further consolidated and confirmed in dedicated workshops with over 60 city makers of different backgrounds. This highlights their potential to stir place-specific debates around the governance of sustainable and just cities. Overall, we provide empirically grounded, actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers on how to achieve integrated urban sustainability and justice through Enabling Governance Arrangements. Highlights: Formulates six arrangements for sustainable and just governance that can help municipalities and communities Arrangements are based on an analysis of governance processes that contributed to more sustainable and just cities Consolidated and confirmed the potential of these arrangements in workshops with over 60 city makers This demonstrates their potential to stir place-specific debates for the governance of sustainable and just cities [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Complex health interventions (CHIs) are increasingly used in public health, clinical research and education to reduce the burden of disease worldwide. Numerous theories, models and frameworks (TMFs) have been developed to support implementation of CHIs. This systematic review aims to identify and critique theoretical frameworks concerned with three features of implementation; adaptability, scalability and sustainability (ASaS). By dismantling the constituent theories, analysing their component concepts and then exploring factors that influence each theory the review team hopes to offer an enhanced understanding of considerations when implementing CHIs. Methods This review searched PubMed MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for research investigating the TMFs of complex health interventions. Narrative synthesis was employed to examine factors that may influence the adaptability, scalability and sustainability of complex health interventions. Results A total of 9763 studies were retrieved from the five databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar). Following removal of duplicates and application of the eligibility criteria, 35 papers were eligible for inclusion. Influencing factors can be grouped within outer context (socio-political context; leadership funding, inter-organisational networks), inner context; (client advocacy; organisational characteristics), intervention characteristics (supervision, monitoring and evaluation), and bridging factors (individual adopter or provider characteristics). Conclusion This review confirms that identified TMFS do not typically include the three components of adaptability, scalability, and sustainability. Current approaches focus on high income countries or generic “whole world” approaches with few frameworks specific to low- and middle-income countries. The review offers a starting point for further exploration of adaptability, scalability and sustainability, within a low- and middle-income context. Trial registration Not registered.

Globalization may increase development opportunities for tourist profiled destinations but is also a source of economic vulnerabilities if they lack adaptive capacity to context changes. One of those is the climate, a global issue that may negatively impact these localities, which can face the path of simple survival or, worse, decline, as natural resources often play a key role in recreational and tourism-related activities. Romania has many localities with tourist traditions now facing direct competition from other tourist destinations or companies from abroad in an EU-free people movement context, struggling for both tourists and the skilled labour force. This paper aims to identify some of the comparative advantages and adaptive capacities on the local level that may contribute to sustainable development, despite adverse climate changes reality, based on a study case, Predeal, a tourist destination that profiles itself mainly, as a winter sports resort even that climate reality is no longer that favourable.

To settle in a given area, man has to deal with the surrounding environment and the geomorphological processes that shaped it. Landscape defines the available resources and landscape changes are related to tectonics, hydrography and variations in climate and biota. To cope with environmental limitations, man developed efficient techniques and capabilities to survive, making the best use of natural resources. The Fars arc (southern Iran) is known for being the cradle of some of the earliest civilizations in Iran. It comprehends the southeastern sector of the Zagros Mountains, a Cenozoic orogen formed after the collision between Arabia and central Iran. The landscape is dominated by a series of folding structures which isolate internal basins. This configuration, together with arid climate conditions, limited biological resources, and the occurrence of natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, water salinity, biological/climatic changes and droughts, all dictated the development and pattern of human settlements. This paper aims to give a broad overview on the deep influence exerted by geomorphological processes, such as tectonics, earthquakes, landslides, sea level fluctuations, and climate changes, on the emergence and development of human settlements in the Fars arc which, with its long-lasting and documented civilization history, represents an ideal test site to study the interaction between nature and man. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The documented challenges of the early care and education (ECE) workforce include poor well-being, inadequate compensation, and high turnover rates. The COVID-19 pandemic not only exacerbated these issues, but also imposed additional demands such as virtual instruction, highlighting the need to understand how teachers' well-being relates to their adaptability in teaching. The present study examined whether early childhood teachers' well-being is directly and indirectly related to adaptability to virtual instruction via teachers' executive function during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a research-practice partnership project in a Head Start program in a metropolitan area in the central United States, data were collected from the Early Head Start/Head Start annual teacher survey (n = 148). Mediation analysis showed that teachers who demonstrated higher well-being displayed higher levels of executive function, which in turn was associated with greater adaptability in virtual instruction. Beyond the pandemic, findings highlight the importance of supporting teachers' well-being and executive functions to promote adaptability, which is critical not only in virtual instruction, but also in successfully navigating other challenges of the teaching profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To explore the effects of a 'Rebuilding Myself' intervention on enhancing the adaptability of cancer patients to return to work. Methods: A single-center, single-blind, randomized controlled trial design was used. Eligible patients who were receiving routine hospital treatment were recruited from the university-affiliated hospital in our city. Patients in the control group only received usual care, while patients in the intervention group received additional 'Rebuilding Myself' intervention. Adaptability to return to work, self-efficacy of returning to work, mental resilience, quality of life and work ability were measured at baseline, the 6th and 12th of the intervention. The general estimation equations were used to compare the overall changes of each outcome index between the two groups at different time points. Considering that there may be patient shedding and rejection, Per-Protocol and Intention-to-Treat analysis were used to analyze the data in this study. Results: There were statistically significant differences between the two groups of patients in the cancer patients' adaptability to return to work, self-efficacy to return to work, mental resilience, work abilities, the physical, emotional, cognitive function, fatigue, insomnia and overall health status dimensions of quality of life (P < 0.05). And no significant difference was found in other dimensions (P > 0.05). The group effect, time effect, and interaction effect of patients' return to work adaptability and return to work self-efficacy were statistically significant in both groups (P < 0.05). Mental resilience, working ability, and quality of life had obvious time effect and interaction effect (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This intervention could improve cancer patients' adaptability to return to work, self-efficacy to return to work, mental resilience, work abilities and quality of life. And it can be further expanded to improve the adaptability of patients to return to work, then to help patients achieve comprehensive rehabilitation. Implications for cancer survivors: The application of 'Rebuilding Myself' interventions can effectively improve the adaptability of cancer patients returning to work. Trial registration: This study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration number: ChiCTR2200057943) on 23 March, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic heavy metal. Its emission is suspected to be further increased due to the dramatic application of ash to agricultural soils and newly reclaimed ones. Thereby, Cd stress encountered by plants will exacerbate. Acute and chronic exposure to Cd can upset plant growth and development and ultimately causes plant death. Microorganisms as agriculturally important biofertilizers have constantly been arising as ecofriendly practices owing to their ability to built-in durability and adaptability mechanisms of plants. However, applying microbes as a biofertilizer agent necessitates the elucidation of the different mechanisms of microbe protection and stabilization of plants against toxic elements in the soil. A greenhouse experiment was performed using Trichoderma harzianum and plant growthpromoting (PGP) bacteria (Azotobacter chroococcum and Bacillus subtilis) individually and integrally to differentiate their potentiality in underpinning various resilience mechanisms versus various Cd levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg of soil). Microorganisms were analyzed for Cd tolerance and biosorption capacity, indoleacetic acid production, and phosphate and potassium solubilization in vitro. Plant growth parameters, water relations, physiological and biochemical analysis, stress markers and membrane damage traits, and nutritional composition were estimated. Results: Unequivocal inversion from a state of downregulation to upregulation was distinct under microbial inoculations. Inoculating soil with T. harzianum and PGPB markedly enhanced the plant parameters under Cd stress (150 mg/ kg) compared with control plants by 4.9% and 13.9%, 5.6% and 11.1%, 55.6% and 5.7%, and 9.1% and 4.6% for plant fresh weight, dry weight, net assimilation rate, and transpiration rate, respectively; by 2.3% and 34.9%, 26.3% and 69.0%, 26.3% and 232.4%, 135.3% and 446.2%, 500% and 95.6%, and 60% and 300% for some metabolites such as starch, amino acids, phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanin, and proline, respectively; by 134.0% and 604.6% for antioxidants including reduced glutathione; and by 64.8% and 91.2%, 21.9% and 72.7%, and 76.7% and 166.7% for enzymes activity including ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, respectively. Whereas a hampering effect mediated by PGP bacterial inoculation was registered on levels of superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, electrolyte leakage, and polyphenol oxidase activity, with a decrease of 0.53%, 14.12%, 2.70%, and 5.70%, respectively, under a highest Cd level (150 mg/kg) compared with control plants. The available soil and plant Cd concentrations were decreased by 11.5% and 47.5%, and 3.8% and 45.0% with T. harzianum and PGP bacterial inoculation, respectively, compared with non-inoculated Cdstressed plants. Whereas, non-significant alternation in antioxidant capacity of sunflower mediated by T. harzianum action even with elevated soil Cd concentrations indicates stable oxidative status. The uptake of nutrients, viz., K, Ca, Mg, Fe, nitrate, and phosphorus, was interestingly increased (34.0, 4.4, 3.3, 9.2, 30.0, and 1.0 mg/g dry weight, respectively) owing to the synergic inoculation in the presence of 150 mg of Cd/kg. Conclusions: However, strategies of microbe-induced resilience are largely exclusive and divergent. Biofertilizing potential of T. harzianum showed that, owing to its Cd biosorption capability, a resilience strategy was induced via reducing Cd bioavailability to be in the range that turned its effect from toxicity to essentiality posing well-known low-dose stimulation phenomena (hormetic effect), whereas using Azotobacter chroococcum and Bacillus subtilis, owing to their PGP traits, manifested a resilience strategy by neutralizing the potential side effects of Cd toxicity. The synergistic use of fungi and bacteria proved the highest efficiency in imparting sunflower adaptability under Cd stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is vital for higher education to improve its ability to anticipate and implement longlasting change. Private higher education institutions are currently facing challenges in governance that hinder their ability to upgrade their accreditation grade to "excellent ". The involvement of institutional management is a key factor in enabling these institutions to compete on a national and international level. Research methodology uses confirmatory factor analysis to test the hypotheses developed while structural equation modeling is employed as the equation model. The sample population comprised 16 private tertiary institutions in South Sumatra, Indonesia. The study focused on the heads of study programs resulting in a total of 195 respondents. The results indicated that self-efficacy and knowledge sharing did not have a direct impact on readiness for change whereas adaptability exhibited a direct influence. The study demonstrated that adaptability acts as a mediator between self-efficacy and knowledge sharing towards readiness for change. The final model test results confirmed adaptability as a mediating variable. Additionally, the study revealed that external environmental change did not moderate the relationship between adaptability and readiness for change. Changes of a high calibre that promote a sustained digital education transformation are necessary due to the real-world effects on Indonesia's higher education system. The ability to adapt and embrace new technology is very important factors for higher education performance to face readiness for change in private higher education, especially in management units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 9-Layered Model of Giftedness is an innovative conceptual framework composed of an integrated set of abilities, skills and values that align with Goals 3, 4 and 8 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030: Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, and Decent Work and Economic Growth, respectively. The corresponding hierarchical model considers metacognitive abilities, such as attentional control and self-regulation, as well as personal values and attitudes towards life, such as sustainability and inclusiveness, as major qualitative criteria encapsulated in the construct of giftedness, thereby reframing intelligence per se into collective intelligence. Moreover, a chatbot was developed, incorporating knowledge and computerised tools organised into modules that support lifelong learning—a key metacognitive competency for the Industry 4.0 era—thereby enhancing personal and professional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conformation and dynamics of metropolitanisation act as propulsive elements of territorial transformations. The deficiency of infrastructural equipment, the heterogeneity of urban fabric and the lack of services and public spaces contribute to severing the identity ties between settled communities and territories. In light of this, within the more general reflection concerning urban regeneration, we recall the role that cultural heritage plays in the physical and functional organisation of the city, as a reflection of the interaction between community and context. The contribution is contextualized in the research work on the activities related to Thematic Line 4 of the Extended Partnership 5—CHANGES (NRRP). The thematic line activities follow three phases: 1. contextualization; 2. operational phase; 3. experimentation. The research work presented here is part of the 'operational phase', to identify strategies and projects for heritage-led regeneration. The article analyses the pilot case of CSOA Forte Prenestino as a starting point for thinking about expanding the research activity to other similar cases. It is a self-managed community centre in Rome (Italy) located in the nineteenth-century Forte, which has become a symbol of collective identity. The case study was identified following three levels of investigation: 1. identification of the municipality, first-level administrative subdivision of the city of Rome (Italy); 2. identification of the main historical, archaeological and architectural emergencies of the municipality; 3. identification of an asset to be analysed as "Heritage by designation" (involvement of experts) and "Heritage by appropriation" (involvement of communities). The research results show the "Recognition Path" of Forte Prenestina: according to what has been 'designated' by urban planning instruments, project instruments, legislative instruments and authors of scientific publications and conferences; and on the basis of the bottom-up 'appropriation' process of the asset that has allowed its management, assessment of its cultural and social potential and its development. The research results allow us to reflect on heritage-led urban regeneration as a strategy capable of capturing and promoting the links between social integration and cultural–historical identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]