Diverse Spaces Research Articles

Arrival Infrastructuring at a Southern European gate: public action and spaces in Palermo, Italy

<p>This paper investigates how the interplay of different actors has shaped the arrival of newcomers in the city of Palermo in Southern Italy. The recent debate on arrival infrastructures is currently developing in central Europe, where arrival has been experienced as part of the so-called reception crises starting from 2013-15. Within this framework, southern European contexts represent interesting fields of observation, both for the way arrivals deployed there – often linked to transit – and for the type of public action that has been mobilized there. Here, arrivals are often linked to further departures and are uncertain in nature; infrastructuring processes involve a wide range of in/formal actors, which can be inscribed into a Southern (European) definition of public action.</p><p>Stemming on two pieces of urban studies research, the work unpacks how different actors channeled newcomers’ arrivals between 2015 and 2020. It highlights the interplay of a robust pro-hospitality political discourse, a broad – and partly informal – public action around it, everyday infrastructuring practices, and how they spatialized into diverse arrival spaces. In Palermo, public action takes roots in a specific urban an historical trajectory of the city, through actions and spaces that often lie between formality and informality and that often also reveal resourceful aspects. Methodologically, the work builds on qualitative methods and fieldwork, documents and discourses analysis, with significant use of mapping and spatialization.</p>

Static Versus Dynamic Model Predictions of Competitive Inhibitory Metabolic Drug-Drug Interactions via Cytochromes P450: One Step Forward and Two Steps Backwards.

Predicting metabolic drug-drug interactions (DDIs) via cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP) is essential in drug development, but controversy has reemerged recently about whether in vitro-in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) using static models can replace dynamic models for some regulatory filings and label recommendations. The aim of this study was to determine if static and dynamic models are equivalent for the quantitative prediction of metabolic DDIs arising from competitive CYP inhibition. Drug parameter spaces were varied to simulate 30,000 DDIs between hypothetical substrates and inhibitors of CYP3A4. Predicted area under the plasma concentration-time profile ratios for substrates (AUCr = AUC(presence of precipitant)/AUC(absence of precipitant)) were compared between dynamic simulations (Simcyp® V21) and corresponding static calculations, giving an inter-model discrepancy ratio (IMDR = AUCrdynamic/AUCrstatic). Dynamic simulations were conducted using a 'population' representative and a 'vulnerable patient' representative with maximal concentration (Cmax) or average steady-state concentration (Cavg,ss) as the inhibitor driver concentrations. IMDRs outside the interval 0.8-1.25 were defined as discrepancy between models. The highest rate of IMDR <0.8 and IMDR >1.25 discrepancies in the 'population' representative was 85.9% and 3.1%, respectively, when using Cavg,ss as the inhibitor driver concentration. Using the 'vulnerable patient' representative showed the highest rate of IMDR >1.25 discrepancies at 37.8%. Static models are not equivalent to dynamic models for predicting metabolic DDIs via competitive CYP inhibition across diverse drug parameter spaces, particularly for vulnerable patients. Caution is warranted in drug development if static IVIVE approaches are used alone to evaluate metabolic DDI risks.

S‐Nucleophilic Imidazoline Ring Expansion: a Novel Approach to the Formation of Medium‐Sized Thiolactames

AbstractA novel method has been successfully developed for the synthesis of medium‐sized heterocycles containing thioamide groups. This approach facilitates the expansion of the imidazoline moiety within the condensed ring system through the action of S‐nucleophiles, enabling access to a broader and more diverse chemical space for natural product analogs and bioactive compounds. A series of [1,4,7]thia‐(oxa−)diazecin‐9‐thiones were efficiently synthesized from diarene‐fused [1.4]heteroazepines using this transformation, achieving yields ranging from 28–58 %.

Human-in-the-loop active learning for goal-oriented molecule generation

Machine learning (ML) systems have enabled the modelling of quantitative structure–property relationships (QSPR) and structure-activity relationships (QSAR) using existing experimental data to predict target properties for new molecules. These property predictors hold significant potential in accelerating drug discovery by guiding generative artificial intelligence (AI) agents to explore desired chemical spaces. However, they often struggle to generalize due to the limited scope of the training data. When optimized by generative agents, this limitation can result in the generation of molecules with artificially high predicted probabilities of satisfying target properties, which subsequently fail experimental validation. To address this challenge, we propose an adaptive approach that integrates active learning (AL) and iterative feedback to refine property predictors, thereby improving the outcomes of their optimization by generative AI agents. Our method leverages the Expected Predictive Information Gain (EPIG) criterion to select additional molecules for evaluation by an oracle. This process aims to provide the greatest reduction in predictive uncertainty, enabling more accurate model evaluations of subsequently generated molecules. Recognizing the impracticality of immediate wet-lab or physics-based experiments due to time and logistical constraints, we propose leveraging human experts for their cost-effectiveness and domain knowledge to effectively augment property predictors, bridging gaps in the limited training data. Empirical evaluations through both simulated and real human-in-the-loop experiments demonstrate that our approach refines property predictors to better align with oracle assessments. Additionally, we observe improved accuracy of predicted properties as well as improved drug-likeness among the top-ranking generated molecules.Scientific contributionWe present an adaptable framework that integrates AL and human expertise to refine property predictors for goal-oriented molecule generation. This approach is robust to noise in human feedback and ensures that navigating chemical space with human-refined predictors leverages human insights to identify molecules that not only satisfy predicted property profiles but also score highly on oracle models. Additionally, it prioritizes practical characteristics such as drug-likeness, synthetic accessibility, and a favorable balance between exploring diverse chemical space and exploiting similarity to existing training data.

ПРОСТІР КРИПТОАКТИВІВ: ЛОГІКА РОЗВИТКУ, СТРУКТУРА, ВЛАСТИВОСТІ ТА ВЗАЄМОДІЇ. Стаття перша. Ідеологія, технології, шлях до розмаїття та типологія криптоактивів

The article explores the complexity and diversity of the crypto-asset space, examining the logic of its development, the dynamics of interactions within the ecosystem, and with the external world. It demonstrates how the open-source nature of crypto projects and the emergence of tools for simplified token creation on third-party blockchains have transformed the crypto-asset space into one of unlimited financial asset creation. The structure of the crypto-asset space is represented through a typology of crypto-assets based on technological, functional, and socio-economic characteristics. By studying thirty of the largest crypto-asset projects by market capitalization, several distinct groups that define the construction of crypto-asset space have been identified: bitcoin and ether as the poles of crypto space development; alternative to bitcoin payment cryptoassets; cryptocurrency based back-office solutions for traditional cross-border payments; stablecoins; coins of alternative blockchain platforms with innovative consensus mechanisms and scalability solutions (Layer 1 and Layer 2); crypto-assets of projects for scaling other blockchains and facilitating efficient interoperability between blockchains and the external world; crypto-assets of projects expanding existing successful virtual networks; crypto-assets of centralized cryptocurrency exchanges; DeFi project coins; meme coins; enhanced privacy coins; and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The article reveals the ongoing development of the crypto-asset space in the following directions: solving the blockchain trilemma considering project goals; ensuring interoperability of decentralized networks; creating new forms of collaboration with traditional financial intermediaries and institutions (which often contrasts with the original cypherpunk ideology). It is argued that the space of decentralized interactions, mediated by crypto-assets, has become a domain of extreme volatility, hyper-financialization, and a space where it is difficult to separate technological value from speculative crypto markets. It also highlights the presence of centralized, opaque, and unregulated hyper-intermediaries, with no clear distinction between professional and non-professional participants in the crypto market. Furthermore, this space seeks additional sources of trust from the traditional world, including through sovereign currency-backed stablecoins, partnerships with traditional financial intermediaries, and regulatory lobbying. In the first article, the ideological foundations, basic technologies of the crypto- asset space, bitcoin and ether as the poles of development in this space, and the typology of crypto-assets are examined.

Spatial Justice in Health Communication: Exploring Affective Responses to the Linguistic Landscape in a Shanghai International Hospital

ABSTRACTLinguistic landscape (LL), functioning as a form of health communication, offers a lens through which to examine whether the visual representation of languages in medical spaces ensures accessibility for all and communicates spatial justice. Recent studies on LL have primarily concentrated on elucidating LL as a cognitive and affective indicator of public space, with less attention to how sign‐readers affectively perceive and engage with public signage in medical and migrant contexts. Exploring sign‐readers’ affective responses to the LL can help us understand whether the spatial resources indicated by that LL meet their practical and psychological needs. This empirical study contributes to LL research by examining affective responses to the LL among immigrant patients in a Shanghai international hospital, illuminating the interactions between LL and spatial justice in a medical context. Based on 260 signs collected through photography and interviews with eight international patients, we aimed to explore their feelings and thoughts about the LL at the moment of their experience of it. After identifying various affective responses triggered by the LL, we found that the use of English in the LL projects the hospital's espoused values of “care” and “quality”, while the absence of languages such as Korean and Japanese constrains linguistic equality and spatial justice, triggering anxiety among those who speak neither English nor Mandarin. Future planning of the LL in Shanghai's international communities might be informed by a multilingual awareness to promote the subjective well‐being of transnational immigrants and to improve the epistemic diversity and inclusivity of urban spaces.

Promoting diverse and inclusive spaces with intentionality.

Developing spaces that foster and embrace diverse perspectives and backgrounds with intentionality benefits everyone involved.

Explainable machine learning models for predicting the acute toxicity of pesticides to sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus)

A quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) study was conducted on 313 pesticides to predict their acute toxicity to Sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus) by using DRAGON descriptors. Essentials accounting for a reliable model were all considered carefully, giving full consideration to the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) principles for QSAR acceptability in regulation during the model construction and assessment process. Nine variables were selected through the forward stepwise regression method and used as inputs to construct both linear and nonlinear models. The obtained models were validated internally and externally. Generally, machine learning-based methods, namely support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and projection pursuit regression (PPR), perform better than the multiple linear regression (MLR) model. The statistical results (R2 = 0.682–0.933, Q2LOO = 0.604–0.659, Q2F1 = 0.740–0.796, CCC = 0.861–0.882) of the developed models show that they are robust, reliable, reproducible, accurate and predictive. Comparatively, the RF model performs best, giving predictive correlation coefficient Q2 of 0.814, root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.658 and mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.534 for the test set, respectively. The RF model (as well as SVM and PPR models) was visualized and explained by using the SHapley Additive explanation (SHAP) analysis to enhance its transparency and credibility. In addition, the applicability domain (AD) range of the RF model was characterized by the Williams plot and the tree manifold approximation and projection (TMAP) technology was utilized to illustrate similarity and diversity of the entire data space, to assist in the analysis of the outliers. Activity cliff detection was investigated by using Arithmetic Residuals in K-groups Analysis (ARKA) descriptors. It was found that none of the pesticides was identified as an activity cliff in the training set or a potential prediction cliff in the test set. Therefore, the RF model fulfills each OECD principle in regulation for QSAR models. The research in this work will aid in the in silico QSAR prediction of the acute toxicity to Sheepshead minnow (Cyprinodon variegatus) for untested and new toxic pesticides and can also be extended to other studies.

Integrating arborists and birds: Habitat management options for birds in the tropical urban green space

Abstract Tropical urban areas have been known as excellent habitats for birds. Trees in urban areas are essential in supporting birds’ lives; they must be managed appropriately. This paper aims to formulate habitat and tree maintenance management options that could benefit birds in tropical urban areas. Previous bird observations from three urban green spaces formulated management options. Managing urban birds’ habitat mainly involved managing trees producing food (fruits, seeds, insects, nectars) and providing bird cover (as resting, roosting, and breeding sites). Trees can be planted in clumps or rows, creating bird habitat patches and corridors. Trees producing small-sized seeds/fruits attract insects, and having nectars from flowers is preferred by birds. Tall trees with thick canopies are excellent as cover. As some birds nest in tree cavities, old-decayed trees must also be maintained, which might conflict with arborists’ intentions. Other conflicting matters are snags, parasitic/epiphytic plants, pests, and thick litter, which are excellent for birds but unwanted by arborists. Management options for arborists need to be integrated and synergized with avian ecologists to maintain/increase bird diversity and number in the tropical urban green space.

CESE Schemes for Solar Wind Plasma MHD Dynamics

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) numerical simulation has emerged as a pivotal tool in space physics research, witnessing significant advancements. This methodology offers invaluable insights into diverse space physical phenomena based on solving the fundamental MHD equations. Various numerical methods are utilized to approximate the MHD equations. Among these, the space–time conservation element and solution element (CESE) method stands out as an effective computational approach. Unlike traditional numerical schemes, the CESE method significantly enhances accuracy, even at the same base point. The concurrent discretization of space and time for conserved variables inherently achieves higher-order accuracy in both dimensions, without the need for intricate higher-order time discretization processes, which are often challenging in other methods. Additionally, this scheme can be readily extended to multidimensional cases, without relying on operator splitting or direction alternation. This paper primarily delves into the remarkable progress of CESE MHD models and their applications in studying solar wind, solar eruption activities, and the Earth’s magnetosphere. We aim to illuminate potential avenues for future solar–interplanetary CESE MHD models and their applications. Furthermore, we hope that the discussions presented in this review will spark new research endeavors in this dynamic field.

The Path Tracking Control of Unmanned Surface Vehicles Based on an Improved Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II-Based Multi-Objective Nonlinear Model Predictive Control Method

This paper proposes a multi-objective nonlinear model predictive control (MOMPC) method based on an improved non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGAII) for the path tracking problem of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). To enhance performance in cross-track error, a varying look-ahead distance is utilized in the line of sight (LOS) algorithm, which allows the MPC control algorithm to compute the look-ahead distance and desired speed rather than directly calculating the control input. Since the cost function of the MPC algorithm includes multiple objective terms, a multi-objective model predictive control algorithm is employed to improve overall control performance. Additionally, an adaptive rotation-based simulated binary crossover (ARSBX) is integrated into the NSGAII algorithm, and the non-dominated sorting method is optimized to reduce computation time. These enhancements increase diversity and exploration in the solution space, enabling the algorithm to find the optimal solution more efficiently. Simulations conducted in two different scenarios demonstrate that the nonlinear MPC method based on the improved NSGAII successfully tracks the desired path; it achieved an improvement of approximately 41% in time performance and about 5% in path-tracking error performance, exhibiting strong control performance and robustness.

Rational design of potent phosphopeptide binders to endocrine Snk PBD domain by integrating machine learning optimization, molecular dynamics simulation, binding energetics rescoring, and in vitro affinity assay.

Human Snk is an evolutionarily conserved serine/threonine kinase essential for the maintenance of endocrine stability. The protein consists of a N-terminal catalytic domain and a C-terminal polo-box domain (PBD) that determines subcellular localization and substrate specificity. Here, an integrated strategy is described to explore the vast structural diversity space of Snk PBD-binding phosphopeptides at a molecular level using machine learning modeling, annealing optimization, dynamics simulation, and energetics rescoring, focusing on the recognition specificity and motif preference of the Snk PBD domain. We further performed a systematic rational design of potent phosphopeptide ligands for the domain based on the harvested knowledge, from which a few potent binders were also confirmed by fluorescence-based assays. A phosphopeptide PP17 was designed as a good binder with affinity improvement by 6.7-fold relative to the control PP0, while the other three designed phosphopeptides PP7, PP13, and PP15 exhibit a comparable potency with PP0. In addition, a basic recognition motif that divides potent Snk PBD-binding sequences into four residue blocks was defined, namely [Χ-5Χ-4]block1-[Ω-3Ω-2Ω-1]block2-[pS0/pT0]block3-[Ψ+1]block4, where the X represents any amino acid, Ω indicates polar amino acid, Ψ denotes hydrophobic amino acid, and pS0/pT0 is the anchor phosphoserine/phosphothreonine at reference residue position 0.

“A new or false hope?” practice and policy on teaching–research linkage in contemporary Cambodia’s higher education

PurposeThe teaching–research nexus (TRN) has assumed a prominent role in global higher education systems. However, the connection between the two domains has been subject to diverse interpretations within well-developed higher education systems. Little is known about translating TRN into policy and practice in diverse higher education spaces. In this regard, this article examines the recent trajectory and challenges associated with integrating research and teaching in Cambodia.Design/methodology/approachTo analyse the current development of TRN and its associated challenges, this article consolidates two sets of data: recent research papers and government policy documents on TRN in the last 10 years or so.FindingsThe analysis shows that the connection between teaching and research appears to be patchy in practice, as evidenced in previous studies. The recent government policies and interventions, although potentially fostering progress in research activities, pose dilemmas regarding the orientation and feasibility of linking these two domains.Research limitations/implicationsThis article focuses on enhancing TRN in Cambodia, one of the developing higher education contexts, thereby offering insights into the strategies and concerns within such environments. Policymakers in similar higher education contexts might benefit from considering the concerns and solutions highlighted in this article.Originality/valueResearch on policies and strategies for strengthening TRN in developing higher education contexts remains limited in the literature. This article contributes to our collective knowledge of TRN by looking at Cambodia's contemporary reality and strategies.

Depolicing in historically marginalised communities: a neighbourhood-level analysis

ABSTRACT The murder of George Floyd prompted widespread calls for reform surrounding how police officers engage with members of historically marginalised communities. The increased scrutiny of police generated in the wake of the incident prompted depolicing – reductions in discretionary proactive policing driven by officers’ risk aversions. At present, despite a robust evidence base that policing is not applied evenly or consistently across diverse spaces – and amidst scrutiny that it is in interactions within specific sociodemographic populations that policing requires the greatest improvement – little research exists that examines depolicing impacts in neighbourhoods predominantly comprised of historically marginalised populations. This study is a quantitative examination of those depolicing impacts – measured in monthly counts of discretionary police stops and using a series of fixed effects negative binomial regression models – across ethnoracially and socioeconomically divergent neighbourhoods. The study, which spanned 50 months across 157 neighbourhoods in the city of Philadelphia, found a 34% post-Floyd reduction in the expected counts of monthly police stops in neighbourhoods which are both predominantly Black and economically disadvantaged, as well as a nearly 52% reduction in predominantly Hispanic neighbourhoods. The novel finding that depolicing impacts in predominantly Black communities were limited only to the most economically disadvantaged such neighbourhoods is discussed.

Politicising the Public Space: On Dalit Women Sanitation Workers in India

Caste determines the life worlds of people in India in particular and South Asia in general. Historically, it is observed that caste has conditioned the nature of public spaces. Upper castes can appropriate the public spaces legitimized by caste ideology and practice. However, colonial and post-colonial India witnessed changes in the caste system due to its (modern) legal interventions. Paradoxically, caste persists in its crude and subtle forms. It has also acquired new forms in post-independent public spaces. Caste determines certain bodily dispositions within the so-called public spaces. The ambiguous nature of modernity and the weight of tradition have drastically transformed the public space. A socially regulated economy and public institutions are determining the people, space, and mobility of the castes, too. This article investigates the nature of the stigmatized labour of Dalit women sanitation workers (who come under the manual scavenging community) within diverse public urban spaces. It analyses the various questions related to the Dalit women sanitation workers who work in select public universities, urban housing colonies, and slums in Delhi, India. It probes the Dalit women sanitation workers’ day-to-day life in caste-ridden spaces of urban- “public” spaces. One of the central questions that needs to be addressed is whether the socioeconomic space of these Dalit women workers has changed in contemporary India. Why do Dalit women have to do stigmatized work in public spaces? How are purity and pollution reinforced in elusive ways? Thus, it initiates a critique of the Indian feminist understanding of public spaces. This article acts as a way to engage with the epistemic priority of women sanitation workers to problematize Brahmanic feminism in India. Can there be any social-political engagement with the public space in the case of Dalit women sanitation workers? At the level of theory, this article critiques the dominant-Habermasian idea of the public sphere and Nancy Fraser’s counter-public to reflect on conceptual practice grounded in the Dalit women sanitation workers and public space.

Urban amusement parks of Midnapore (West Bengal, India): Utility, accessibility and structural diversity

Urban parks significantly enhance the urban residents' quality of life, offering spaces for recreation that positively impact physical and mental well-being. This comprehensive study, involving 400 diverse respondents, delves into urban park usage, visitor preferences, and attributes, shedding light on their crucial role in urban planning and community welfare. Demographic factors such as age, gender, religion, education, and health were analyzed, underscoring the importance of inclusive park design. Most participants frequented parks, favoring walking, biking, and motorbikes for transportation. While accessibility generally received positive feedback, some respondents faced challenges due to long travel times, hinting at potential distribution disparities. The study also explored willingness to pay for park access, revealing varying pricing opinions and aiding in sustainable park management decisions. Satisfaction levels varied across parks, with higher scores associated with diverse green spaces, well-maintained facilities, and safety measures. Preferences were influenced by factors like distance and cost. Structural diversity analysis highlighted varying degrees of diversity among parks, emphasizing the importance of diverse amenities, accessible design, and sustainable management practices. These insights offer valuable guidance for urban planners and park authorities to address community needs and foster well-being and community connection in urban spaces.

Neuro-Architectural Design of an Inclusive School Complex: A Response to the Needs of Autistic Children in Ngaoundere

In Cameroon, although efforts have been made to improve access to education, children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often remain excluded from the traditional school system, particularly in the northern regions where access to specialized infrastructure is limited. This article presents the results of a study on the design of a school complex adapted to autistic children in Ngaoundere, incorporating the principles of neuro-architecture. The survey conducted with specialists, parents, and educators provided crucial insights to create an inclusive and calming educational environment that meets the sensory and cognitive needs of the children. The site analysis in the Adamawa region, considering climatic and geographical constraints, confirmed the relevance of the location. The architectural design, focused on diverse spaces such as classrooms, sensory withdrawal zones, and common areas promoting inclusion, not only enhances the social integration of autistic children but also raises awareness in the community about the importance of their education. This project, rooted in an ecological and cultural approach, represents a sustainable and innovative initiative for Cameroon’s education system.

Organic Metalogue Across Spaces and Places to Rethink Species Relationships in a Community of Practice

AbstractHow can we work with diverse cultures and diverse ways of knowing whilst enabling space for diversity? Metalogues can help to avoid (or remedy) misunderstanding, leaving ideas out, speaking for or over others. It provides breathing space between the stimulus of engagement and the process of coming up with an agreed upon output or outcome. This postcolonial and non-anthropocentric approach is rooted in collegiality and a recognition of our hybridity and interconnectedness with many species; as such it celebrates ‘entangled life’ (Sheldrake 2021) with Indigenous and non Indigenous academics, leaders and community practitioners, including farmers. The paper discusses the dynamic process. Could this process be considered multispecies neuroscience in action?

An INDEL genomic approach to explore population diversity of phytoplankton

BackgroundAlthough metabarcoding and metagenomic approaches have generated large datasets on worldwide phytoplankton species diversity, the intraspecific genetic diversity underlying the genetic adaptation of marine phytoplankton to specific environmental niches remains largely unexplored. This is mainly due to the lack of biological resources and tools for monitoring the dynamics of this diversity in space and time.ResultsTo gain insight into population diversity, a novel method based on INDEL markers was developed on Bathycoccus prasinos (Mamiellophyceae), an abundant and cosmopolitan species with strong seasonal patterns. Long read sequencing was first used to characterize structural variants among the genomes of six B. prasinos strains sampled from geographically distinct regions in the world ocean. Markers derived from identified insertions/deletions were validated by PCR then used to genotype 55 B. prasinos strains isolated during the winter bloom 2018–2019 in the bay of Banyuls-sur-Mer (Mediterranean Sea, France). This led to their classification into eight multi-loci genotypes and the sequencing of strains representative of local diversity, further improving the available genetic diversity of B. prasinos. Finally, selected markers were directly tracked on environmental DNA sampled during 3 successive blooms from 2018 to 2021, showcasing a fast and cost-effective approach to follow local population dynamics.ConclusionsThis method, which involves (i) pre-identifying the genetic diversity of B. prasinos in environmental samples by PCR, (ii) isolating cells from selected environmental samples and (iii) identifying genotypes representative of B. prasinos diversity for sequencing, can be used to comprehensively describe the diversity and population dynamics not only in B. prasinos but also potentially in other generalist phytoplankton species.

Play for All

The practice of play, encompassing physical activity and social connectedness, exerts a positive effect on communities’ health and overall urban quality of life. Depending on design and social dynamics, public spaces in cities can be more or less welcoming for young women. Public spaces in Cairo, Egypt, lack playful elements that attract young women to partake in physical activities. This study seeks to identify and assess the current situation of physical activity and play in Cairo for young women. This shall be achieved through exploring their experiences with means of appropriation of public spaces and empowerment, according to the cultural norms, safety concerns and physical design elements. To do so, the study used digital ethnography to gain an understanding of the types of activities young women engage in public spaces and their modes of collective organisation. Observations across the city have then been conducted, and the three neighbourhoods of Al Rehab, Madinati and Zamalek have been selected to pursue more in-depth field observations and interviews. Doing so highlighted the challenges and the opportunities these young women face, shedding light on ways to strengthen their use of play-based urban forms and sports infrastructures in public spaces. The study finds that to pursue physical activity, young women tend to privilege certain safer urban spaces, such as Gated Communities and temporalities allowing for less risks of street harassment. Social media platforms have been understood as instruments for collective organisation, catalysing and multiplying female physical activity in Cairo’s public spaces. The study suggests that the use of social media platforms can be instrumentalised for young women’s empowerment in shaping diverse public spaces and placemaking processes. In the end, the research sheds light on the pathways forward to enhance young women’s engagement in the design and use of playful and active public spaces in culturally sensitive contexts.