Development Conference Research Articles

Errata: Executive Summary of the 2023 Adult Position Development Conference of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry: DXA Reporting, Follow-up BMD Testing and Trabecular Bone Score Application and Reporting

Errata: Executive Summary of the 2023 Adult Position Development Conference of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry: DXA Reporting, Follow-up BMD Testing and Trabecular Bone Score Application and Reporting

Tradeoffs in Key Rotation Strategies for Industrial Internet of Things Devices and Firmware

This paper provides an overview of several secure boot architectures with a focus on key rotation. It expands on a practitioner note that the authors submitted to the 2023 IEEE Secure Development Conference. Key rotation is important due to the frequency of lost signing keys and the difficulty of managing secret keys for the long lifetimes of Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) devices. Key rotation is not simple for IIOT due to limited resources during a secure boot process and the constraints of the firmware utilities that come from the chip vendors. This paper reviews and compares five common architectures for a secure boot that are seen across the IIOT community. For each architecture, it provides some key strengths and weaknesses associated with that architecture. The paper then provides a detailed comparison and analysis of the architectures to convince the IIOT community to move towards a strong use of certificates (instead of the traditional use of raw public keys). The intent of this paper is to provide a practitioner’s perspective on these challenges and the tradeoffs in hopes of inviting comments from chip vendors and the broader community.

Preface

These proceedings contain the peer-reviewed full papers presented at the joint conference ICMASS (the 6th International Conference on Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships) and MTEC (International Maritime Port Technology and Development Conference), held October 29th – 30th, 2024, in Trondheim, Norway. MTEC and ICMASS bring together academia and industry from around the world showcasing cutting-edge research and development within maritime technology, autonomous ships and port operations. https://www.ntnu.edu/mtec-icmass2024/home Trondheim, Norway’s hub for technological innovation, has utilized its rich maritime heritage to position itself at the forefront of maritime innovation. With the world’s first test area for autonomous ships, its strong position within academia and research, Trondheim has gained a leading position in the field of maritime innovation through collaboration between maritime stakeholders. This year’s conference topics include: • Green shipping and ports • Smart and autonomous ship and port operations • Maritime safety • Maritime digitalization, connectivity and cybersecurity The theme of this year’s conference, featuring contributions covering topics such as AI & autonomy, cybersecurity, onboard control, remote & shore control, smart ships as part of smart logistics, green shipping, safety evaluations, collision avoidance, regulatory & legal frameworks, as well as discussions on liability, etc. The papers, published in these proceedings contain theoretical contributions as well as reports on practical implementations in field labs and industry, and the conference will also have oral only presentation. Totally there will be more than 90 presentations, where more than 60 papers are invited. A conference such as this can only succeed as a team effort, and, as such, we thank the International Program Committee and the Reviewers for their excellent work in reviewing the papers as well as their invaluable input and advice. On behalf of the organizing committee, List of MTEC/ICMASS-24 Organizing Committee, International Programme and Management Committee and International Reviewers are available in this Pdf.

INTERNATIONAL LEGAL REGULATION OF PRINCIPLES IN THE FIELD OF CLIMATE PROTECTION

The article carried out comprehensive theoretical studies of foreign legislation in Environmental Protection. Principles in the field of climate protection are of great importance in the world. This is because climate change is contributing to an increase in the incidence of natural disasters. Environmental protection measures are provided for by the United Nations Framework Convention on climate change, the Paris agreement on climate change, the United Nations Framework Convention on climate change, the United Nations Environment and Development Conference. In developed countries, special principles have been introduced in the Prevention of environmental conditions, environmental safety and climate disasters based on international legal acts. The new principles of climate protection are aimed at preventing damage to the environment, preserving the environment, and using natural resources more efficiently. The legal principles of climate protection contribute to ensuring environmental safety, preventing harmful effects on natural resources, improving the quality of life of people through careful use of Natural Resources and other natural resources. The Paris Agreement is the first treaty ratified in the world, adopted by all heads of state at the United Nations conference on climate change. The main goal of the Paris Agreement is considered to be the management of the environment by developing states through the effective organization of several measures aimed at combating climate change. By conducting a legal analysis of various solutions of international organizations, the authors proposed important and effective principles that contribute to solving climate change problems.

Hampton University launches School of Religion

Hampton University, a renowned historically Black university in Virginia, recently announced the establishment of a School of Religion. The university has hosted the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference (HUMC, a professional development conference) for more than a century and took this year's conference as the time to announce the new school.

Genetic testing for childhood cancer predisposition syndromes: Controversies and recommendations from the SIOPE Host Genome Working Group meeting 2022

BackgroundCancer Predisposition Syndromes (CPSs) have been identified in 7–15 % of children with cancer. The possibilities for germline genetic testing have increased in recent years, presenting new opportunities but also challenges. There is currently no consensus on germline genetic testing in children with cancer in diagnostic settings. MethodsThe International Society of Pediatric Oncology Europe (SIOPE) Host Genome Working Group used a consensus development conference method to reach agreement on four key topics: Who do we test? Which genes do we test? What do we disclose? How do we evaluate the benefits of testing? ResultsThe Working Group members agreed that: (1) All children with cancer should undergo clinical screening for their risk of harboring a CPS. (2) Targeted genetic testing based on clinical indication is recommended. Comprehensive CPS gene panels with more than 100–150 genes for all children with cancer should preferably be evaluated within research settings. (3) Smaller actionable gene panels can be considered including genes supporting diagnosis or influencing treatment decisions. (4) Clear pre-test information and consenting processes that highlight potential outcomes and implications of germline genetic testing are imperative. (5) Consequences of genetic testing, treatment adaption, and tumor surveillance in children with CPSs, including economic impact and psychosocial factors, should be further explored. ConclusionsThese consensus-based recommendations provide guidance on germline genetic testing in children with cancer. Regular review of these recommendations is essential. Collaboration and the use of data sharing platforms can further improve screening procedures and its impact on care.

Advancing pediatric drug development in South Asia: Current landscape and vision for the future.

The manuscript summarizes the outcomes of a one-day conference by the South Asian College of American College of Clinical Pharmacology (SAC-ACCP) in July 2023, at Bhopal. The theme of the conference was "Advancing pediatric drug development in South Asia." SAC-ACCP organized this event in Bhopal to foster the discipline of clinical pharmacology and to motivate researchers and physicians in the in the central part of India. The conference featured presentations on regional approaches to pediatric drug development in Asia by pediatric scientific experts from the pharmaceutical industry, regulatory agencies, as well as independent consultancies. The speakers highlighted several important aspects of the evolving regulatory landscape in India and proposed numerous actionable steps in acceleration of pediatric drug development. This commentary provides insights from presentations and the panel discussion at this conference and also makes an attempt to connect to similar discussions that occurred at the SAC-ACCP drug development conference in 2017.

English Language Teachers’ Awareness and Practice of Digital Teaching

Raising English language teachers' awareness and practice of digital teaching is essential for creating interactive, engaging, and effective learning environments that cater to the diverse needs and interests of students. This study aims to explore the digital teaching awareness of secondary level English teachers and the technology-driven activities implemented in their classrooms. Employing a qualitative approach within the narrative inquiry framework, data was gathered from 12 secondary level English teachers through semi-structured interviews, direct observations, and document analysis. The results reveal that secondary level English teachers in Nepal develop their digital teaching skills and knowledge by engaging in professional development programs, including workshops, seminars, and conferences, as well as through self-directed learning from online platforms like YouTube. Additionally, they enhance their digital teaching strategies by utilizing social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, along with web-based tools. These findings provide valuable insights and resources for English teachers, which can be applied in the classroom to promote interactive, technology-enhanced learning and teaching activities. Furthermore, the results can inform policymakers at educational institutions to ensure the efficacy of digital language learning practices.

Hampton University launches School of Religion

Hampton University, a renowned historically Black university in Virginia, recently announced the establishment of a School of Religion. The university has hosted the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference (HUMC, a professional development conference) for more than a century and took this year's conference as the time to announce the new school.

From Social Work Internationalisation to Social Work Internationalism: Reflections from the Joint Social Work and Social Development Conference in Panama

From Social Work Internationalisation to Social Work Internationalism: Reflections from the Joint Social Work and Social Development Conference in Panama

Heuristics for Equitable Technical Communication in Remote & Hybrid Game Development

Purpose: This article seeks to provide a set of heuristics for technical communication, addressing the newfound challenges to game developers as a result of the seemingly permanent shift to hybrid and remote work in this industry. In particular, this piece offers developers tangible ways in which they can facilitate productive and equitable means of technical communications that account for the unique needs of this kind of work that now takes place in almost exclusively remote and hybrid working situations. Method: This piece relies on both survey and interview data collected from nearly 300 members of the Independent Game Developers Association (IGDA) and at various games-based conferences (e.g., the Game Developers Conference) over a period of two years through a partnership grant between York University and the IGDA. Results: The results noted two key findings: First, the majority of game developers do not want to or intend to ever return to a fully physical office setting. Second, the results indicate that the shift to remote work more often negatively impacted female and non-binary developers, most likely due to the additional caregiving responsibilities traditionally emplaced on these groups. Conclusion: Technical communication is a central part of the game development process and has become even more pivotal as developers continue to operate under remote and hybrid working conditions. As such, the heuristics developed from this data focus on addressing the needs of these groups so that the remote and hybrid workplaces can operate as equitably as possible in this new industry model.

Does renewable energy proactively contribute to mitigating carbon emissions in major fossil fuels consuming countries?

The success of global climate initiatives (SDG-13, COP28) heavily depends on the actions of major fossil fuels consuming countries, as their continued reliance on these energy sources greatly impedes progress towards global climate objectives. Transitioning from the dominance of fossil fuels to the expansion of renewable energy is crucial for ensuring Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Conference on Parties (COP) objectives under UN climate change initiatives, as well as for achieving environmental sustainability. This study investigates the proactive role of renewable energy in enhancing environmental sustainability and evaluates the impact of fossil fuel consumption, real gross domestic product (RGDP), square of RGDP, and patents on carbon emissions in major fossil fuels consuming countries from 1990 to 2020 after considering and disregarding the EKC model. Two-way additive and interactive fixed effect models demonstrate a statistically significant negative effect of renewable energy on carbon emissions. A method of moments quantile regression endorses the asymmetric negative effects of renewable energy across different quantiles of CO2 emissions. According to the quantile regression, a low CO2 emitting country's environmental quality is largely sensitive to the consumption of renewable energy. Also, after considering heterogeneity, cross-sectional dependence and endogeneity issues, the effect of renewable energy remains unchanged. On the contrary, unlike renewable energy, fossil fuel consumption, real GDP, square of real GDP, and patents have positive effects in most cases, worsening environmental quality by increasing CO2 levels. Therefore, based on these findings, our study emphasizes pivotal policy implications aimed at fostering a better environment in major fossil fuels consuming countries.

DRI Triton SS-OCT applied to detect choroidal nodules in paediatric patients affected by NF1

PurposeTo examine whether image processing of non-mydriatic DRI Triton SS-OCT (Topcon Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) using the red free filter could assess the presence of choroidal nodules and thus include their detection as a diagnostic criterion in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Material and methodsWe included 417 eyes from 210 patients, 377 - from 190 patients diagnosed with NF1 according to the criteria established by the National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference (NIH) and 40 from 20 healthy patients as a control group. The mean age was 9.4 years (range 2 years–18 years). All patients had their visual acuity measured by a test according to age, were examined for the presence of lisch nodules and an Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) of the macular area was performed. All the OCT images were analysed to check if visible nodules could be identified. ResultsAges 14 (95% CI=(9.7,18.3)) and 12 years (95% CI=(9.1,14)) are the cut-off points that best separate those with choroidal nodules with Triton OCT and lisch with slit lamp, respectively, from those without. lisch nodules were detected in 50% of cases of NF1 patients. The presence of choroidal nodules did not present a statistically significant correlation with the occurrence of optic pathway glioma (p = 0.96) nor with the patient's visual worsening (p = 0.072). A statistically significant correlation was observed between the presence of choroidal nodules and the presence of lisch nodules (p < 0.05). ConclusionThe Topcon Triton OCT red free tool would not be a good tool to detect choroidal nodules in patients with NF1 because of its low sensitivity. If the presence of choroidal nodules were to be included in the diagnostic criteria for NF1, it would be convenient to use a device with red and infrared radiations.

Developing a Collaborative Understanding of Health Justice in Physiotherapy: Findings from a National Consensus Development Conference

Introduction: Justice and health equity are necessary to ensure the health and wellness of an optimally operating society. Healthcare leaders, educators, students, and clinicians should endeavour to achieve health justice; however, there is a paucity of literature exploring health justice and similarly, a lack of accepted models or frameworks to actualize this state. There is a need to understand the tenets of health justice that can be integrated across and within the physiotherapy profession. The aims of this project were to build upon a proposed operational definition of health justice through a national consensus exercise and identify concepts related to health justice that could inform physiotherapy education and practice. Methods: A facilitated 3-hour virtual consensus development conference was held on November 25, 2022, and included three rounds of discussion and voting. A total of 34 delegates across targeted organizations consented to participate in this study. Participants represented delegates across key Canadian physiotherapy organizations, students, educational and health service administrators, and clinicians across various healthcare disciplines. Results: Facilitated discussion within conference rounds informed revisions to the originally proposed definition of health justice. Seventeen concepts met consensus to be included in a collaborative understanding of health justice. These concepts listed in alphabetical order were accessibility, affordability, availability, determinants of health, diversity, equity, inclusion, intersectionality, health, health equity, oppression, power, privilege, quality, racism, social equity, and sustainable health. A post-conference survey resulted in the inclusion of two additional concepts, bias and voice, for a total of 19 included concepts. Ten concepts requiring further exploration were identified. Conclusion: This national consensus exercise included interprofessional delegates from physiotherapy organizations, academia, and clinical practice. Conference results can inform the development of curricular content, policies, procedures, and practices by stakeholders in physiotherapy and other healthcare disciplines.

Towards Fostering Patriotism and Instilling Moral Values in Ghana Through Faith: The Role of The Church of Pentecost in National Development

The Church’s place in modern life has gone a lot beyond its original purpose of giving spiritual advice through religious groups. Through participant observation and a review of the literature, this paper examined how the Church, especially The Church of Pentecost (CoP), has changed over time in modern Ghana to promote patriotism and instil moral values in modern Ghana through its two flagship programmes—“National Development Conference 2023” and the “All Ministers Conference 2023”. The findings of the research revealed that morals, unity, and national growth were emphasised at these conferences. There were teachings, prayers, workshops, and the raising of the Ghanaian flag as a symbol of how important it is to work together across party lines for national growth. The study highlighted key recommendations, including employing a holistic approach, promoting patriotic songs, fostering collaboration, upholding moral values, emphasizing the national flag, and transcending partisanship. The study concluded that media influence, equality, punctuality, and unity are essential in fostering patriotism and moral values for Ghana’s growth and development. The paper contributes to the proactive role of the church in nurturing patriotism and moral values, providing valuable insights into nation-building and societal cohesion. Keywords: The Church of Pentecost, Religion, Patriotism, Moral Values, National Development

Triumphing Over Adversity: Navigating Climate Change, Covid-19, and Conflict for Sustainable Development in the Post-Globalization Era

This research examines the role of addressing global humanitarian issues in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by States at the UN Sustainable Development Conference in 2012. The SDGs aim to tackle key challenges related to sustainable development, covering environmental, social, and economic dimensions. However, achieving a balance between environmental protection, economic growth, and social inclusion is a complex task requiring continuous efforts and commitment. Through a socio-legal approach, this study identifies three global humanitarian issues as obstacles to the SDGs: climate change, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and conflicts between States, specifically the Russo-Ukrainian War. Addressing climate change is crucial as it poses significant threats to the environment and human life. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates existing challenges, impacting health systems, economies, and social well-being. State conflicts disrupt peace and stability, impeding progress towards development goals. Overcoming these obstacles necessitates international cooperation, policy reforms, and effective governance, prioritizing sustainability, resilience, and inclusiveness. By addressing these humanitarian issues, we can enhance the likelihood of achieving the SDGs and building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

The COVID Pandemic and the Regulatory Geography of Rule of Law: Putting ‘Rule of Law’ in Its Place

Abstract The Law and Development Institute’s 2003 Law and Development Conference on “Law and Development Post the Pandemic” inadvertently exposes the limits of ‘rule of law’ as a conceptual device for linking law and development. As will be explored, the developmental implications of that crisis highlighted geographic aspects of law and development that more conventional foci on economic development obscure. This is because these more conventional foci overlook spatial and geographical aspects of both rule of law and ‘development’ that are much more salient when focusing on the developmental import of the pandemic. This article will explore what those aspects are.

Pedagogical Journey of Pre-service Teachers: Stories to Tell

This research aimed to identify the experiences, coping mechanisms, and insights of nine Apayao State College pre-service teachers during their internship. The study used purposive convenience sampling and in-depth interviews with nine graduates. The results showed that pre-service teachers faced challenges, managed them through coping mechanisms, and shared their insights about their pedagogical journey. The study recommends workshops, proper orientation, and regular conferences for learning development, emphasizing the importance of sharing experiences and fostering professional growth among pre-service teachers.

Current state of the epilepsy drug and device pipeline.

The field of epilepsy has undergone substantial advances as we develop novel drugs and devices. Yet considerable challenges remain in developing broadly effective, well-tolerated treatments, but also precision treatments for rare epilepsies and seizure-monitoring devices. We summarize major recent and ongoing innovations in diagnostic and therapeutic products presented at the seventeenth Epilepsy Therapies & Diagnostics Development (ETDD) conference, which occurred May 31 to June 2, 2023, in Aventura, Florida. Therapeutics under development are targeting genetics, ion channels and other neurotransmitters, and many other potentially first-in-class interventions such as stem cells, glycogen metabolism, cholesterol, the gut microbiome, and novel modalities for delivering electrical neuromodulation.

Decolonization Debacle: The Bane of Sustainable Development Attainment in Nigeria

Colonization, an imperial conquest of native lands by European countries, became an epoch-making, monumental highlight in the historical development of third-world countries. There is no gainsaying that the colonial exercise did more evil than good for the colonized world. The decolonization of Africa and other colonized areas of the world was a slow process that was triggered by the First and Second World Wars. The devastating effects of the two wars on the economies of the West, coupled with the native resistance from the colonies, made colonialism impracticable. Hence, the European imperialist states were faced with no other choice than to relinquish their dominance in their colonies. Nigeria, which finally, attained independence in 1960, tailored its national development policy along the welfarist paradigm. In 1987, Nigeria joined the rest of the world in subscribing to the ideology of sustainable development by partaking in the World Commission on Environment and Development summit. The realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) became entrenched in national developmental planning after Nigeria attended the Sustainable Development Conference held by the UN in 2012. However, following the years of decolonization, Nigeria has grappled with developmental challenges and appeared to be in reverse gear in the developmental process. The post-colonial upheavals and mismanagement of Nigeria became a glaring feature, thus having far-reaching consequences on her development strides. This begs the question as to what and how the decolonization exercise benefitted Nigeria. Therefore, this study examines the decolonization dilemma of Nigeria and how it has hampered Nigeria’s chances of attaining sustainable development. The study employed a qualitative and expository analysis in examining the effect of the decolonization process on the attainment of the SDGs. The study builds on data from a range of published and unpublished sources. It was concluded in the study, that the climate that arose from the decolonization process had not enhanced the actualization of sustainable development in Nigeria. Among the suggestions in the study includes retracing the decolonization steps taken thus far and redefining how Nigeria can be rid of the legacies and traces of colonialism so as to set out on a steady drive toward attaining sustainable development.