Policy Development Research Articles

Contribution of ultra-processed food and animal-plant protein intake ratio to the environmental impact of Belgian diets

There is growing concern about the various impacts of food consumption, both on human and planetary health. Given the context-specific nature of consumption patterns, evaluating their national-level impacts is crucial for proactive policy development. This research aims to evaluate the environmental impact of current Belgian diets, with particular attention to the contribution of food groups, ultra-processed foods (UPF), and the animal-to-plant protein ratio. The methodology consists of three key stages. Firstly, the Belgian diet was summarised, based on data from the Belgian National Food Consumption Survey 2014/2015. Secondly, the origin of the most frequently consumed foods was traced using trade databases. Finally, a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment was conducted to determine the impact of Belgian diets on climate change, water use, land use, and fossil resource scarcity. In this third step, an iterative procedure for selecting the food items to be included in the study was performed. The iterative approach resulted in the inclusion of 227 food items in the analysis. The results indicate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 4.4 [4.27–4.54] kg CO2-equivalent per person per day. Red meat (35 %), beverages (16 %), dairy products (16 %) and snacks (10 %) are identified as primary contributors to climate change. Similar results were observed for land use impacts. Water use and fossil resource scarcity exhibited different trends, with beverages being the most impactful food group. Moreover, UPF account for 50 % of the total climate change and land use impacts, with a linear relationship observed between increased UPF consumption and GHG emissions and land use. A similar linear trend is observed between the ratio of animal-to-plant protein intake and both climate change and land use impact categories. A shift from the current protein ratio to a ratio of 40/60, as suggested in the Flemish Green Deal Protein Shift has been shown to result in a reduction in GHG emissions of the diet by 31 %. This study emphasises the need to target the consumption of high-impact foods such as UPF and animal-based products. Future research will investigate the relationship between environmental and health impacts.

Relationship between physical activity and oral frailty among older adults in Korea

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of physical activity on oral frailty in older Korean adults. Methods: The data from 1,320 individuals aged 65 years and older, derived from the 8th Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2019), were subjected to complex sample statistical analysis. Oral frailty was assessed based on the presence of one or more functional impairments according to the following five criteria: difficulty chewing, difficulty speaking, number of natural teeth, brushing frequency, and use of oral hygiene products. Results: Chewing discomfort and difficulty speaking were highest in the 76-80 age group at 44.5% and 18.1%, respectively (p<0.01). The proportion of patients with 20+ natural teeth decreased from 72.2% (65-70) to 45.3% (75-80) (p<0.001). The daily brushing rate was 50.2% in the 65-70 group. Chewing discomfort was reported by 26% of those who walked 4-6 days a week (p<0.01). Moderate-intensity activity was linked to lower chewing discomfort (22.9%) and speaking difficulty (7.4%) compared with higher levels in inactive individuals (30.4%, 14.9%) (p<0.01). Brushing three times daily was observed in 52.9% of walkers and 33.9% of non-walkers (p<0.001). Oral hygiene product use varied significantly according to activity level (p<0.05). Conclusions: Physical activity significantly affects oral frailty, highlighting the need for targeted training and policy development.

A strategic IT policy implementation model for enhancing customer satisfaction in digital markets

In the increasingly competitive landscape of digital markets, customer satisfaction is paramount for sustained business success. This paper proposes a Strategic IT Policy Implementation Model aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction by aligning IT policy development with customer-centric strategies. The model serves as a framework that integrates technological advancements with customer expectations, ensuring that IT policies effectively support business objectives and improve operational reliability. The proposed model emphasizes a holistic approach to IT policy formulation, incorporating stakeholder input, market analysis, and performance metrics. It identifies key areas where IT policies can directly influence customer experiences, including data management, service delivery, and communication channels. By focusing on these elements, organizations can develop IT policies that not only comply with regulatory standards but also enhance user engagement and satisfaction. Central to the model is the concept of continuous feedback loops, which facilitate the ongoing evaluation and refinement of IT policies based on customer insights. This adaptive mechanism enables businesses to remain responsive to changing customer needs and technological advancements, fostering a culture of innovation and customer-centricity. Moreover, the model advocates for cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that IT policies are harmonized with marketing, sales, and customer service strategies. Implementation of the model is illustrated through case studies of leading technology firms that have successfully aligned their IT policies with customer-centric approaches. These examples highlight the tangible benefits of improved customer satisfaction, increased loyalty, and enhanced operational reliability. Furthermore, the model addresses common challenges faced during implementation, such as resistance to change and resource constraints, offering practical solutions to overcome these obstacles. In conclusion, the Strategic IT Policy Implementation Model provides a structured approach for organizations aiming to enhance customer satisfaction in digital markets. By aligning IT policies with customer-centric strategies, businesses can achieve greater operational efficiency and foster long-term relationships with their customers.

A leadership and policy development model for driving operational success in tech companies

In the fast-evolving landscape of technology companies, leadership plays a critical role in shaping operational policies that align with long-term business goals. This review introduces a leadership and policy development model designed to drive operational success in technology-driven organizations. The model emphasizes the importance of visionary, collaborative, and data-driven leadership in developing and implementing operational policies that not only enhance day-to-day efficiency but also support sustainable growth and innovation. The framework is built around key leadership pillars, including visionary leadership that sets a clear operational direction, collaborative leadership that fosters cross-functional engagement, and data-driven leadership that leverages analytics to inform policy decisions. It highlights the process of policy creation and implementation, beginning with an assessment of existing operational challenges, followed by the development of scalable policies that align with business strategies. The model also incorporates agile leadership, which promotes adaptability in response to rapid technological advancements and market shifts, ensuring that policies remain relevant and effective. Moreover, the model focuses on promoting operational innovation by embedding policies that encourage research and development, cross-department collaboration, and continuous improvement. Leaders are encouraged to integrate Lean and Agile methodologies within policies to streamline processes, reduce inefficiencies, and improve overall operational performance. Through real-world case studies and applications, this review demonstrates how technology companies can benefit from leadership that actively shapes policies to foster operational excellence. The proposed model serves as a strategic tool for tech leaders, helping them align operational policies with long-term objectives, drive innovation, and maintain competitive advantage in the global market. By adopting this leadership-driven policy approach, tech companies can enhance their ability to scale effectively and sustain operational success in an ever-changing environment.

Cashless policy and socio-economic development in Aba City Nigeria

The study examined impact of cashless policy on socio-economic development in Aba City. Specifically, the study sought to: examine the impact of automated teller machine (ATM) transaction on living condition in Aba City and determine the impact of Point of sales transaction (POS) transaction on employment generation in Aba City. The research design was descriptive survey research design. Study Area was Aba City, Nigeria. The sample size of 400 respondents was drawn from population of 2.534 million (estimated population 2016) indigenes of Aba City. The sample size of 400 respondents was drawn with Taro Yamane sampling technique. Research questions of the study were answered using mean score and standard deviation. The hypotheses stated were tested using regression analysis. The empirical result of the study showed that automated teller machine (ATM) transaction has significant impact on living condition in Aba City (t-statistic = 6.446; P-value (0.000) < Sig-value (0.05) and Point of sales transaction (POS) transaction has significant impact on employment generation in Aba City (t-statistic = 7.238; P-value (0.000) < Sig-value (0.05). The study recommended that monetary authority of Nigeria (Central Bank of Nigeria) should provide public enlighten education and awareness on the benefits of automated teller machine, point of sales, and internet banking as enhancers of cashless policy in Nigeria.

Supervised land cover classification of Nueva Ecija using random forest in google earth

Land cover classification is essential for environmental monitoring, urban planning, and sustainable land use management. This study presents a supervised land cover classification in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, utilizing Google Earth Engine (GEE) and the Random Forest (RF) algorithm, applied to Landsat 8 imagery. A total of 1,523 samples were collected representing five land cover types: built-up areas, agricultural lands, water bodies, forests, and barren land. The classification achieved an overall accuracy of 87.69% with a Kappa coefficient of 0.841. Future work should explore the integration of seasonal imagery and topographic indices for improved performance. This methodology provides crucial insights for resource management and supports regional policy development in Nueva Ecija.

Strategic leadership and management within non-profit organizations: An in-depth review of practices contributing to sustainable impact

This study provides an in-depth review of strategic leadership and management practices within non-profit organizations (NPOs) and their contribution to sustainable impact. Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis, the research aims to explore the evolving landscape of strategic leadership, define the scope of leadership and management in achieving sustainable impact, and identify innovative management practices that enhance organizational sustainability. The methodology involved a comprehensive search across peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and grey literature from 2013 to 2023, focusing on empirical evidence, theoretical frameworks, and case studies relevant to NPOs' strategic leadership and management. Key findings reveal that adaptive leadership, innovative management practices, stakeholder engagement, and technology integration are crucial for NPOs to navigate operational complexities, engage stakeholders effectively, and achieve mission-driven objectives. The study proposes strategic recommendations for NPOs to enhance their sustainable impact, including adopting adaptive leadership styles, fostering innovation, integrating technology, and building resilient organizational frameworks. The study underscores the importance of policy development to guide non-profit leaders towards best practices in strategic leadership and management. It also highlights future research directions, emphasizing the need to explore the impact of emerging technologies, globalization, and cross-cultural dynamics on NPOs. Conclusively, the research affirms that effective strategic leadership and management are indispensable for enhancing the sustainable impact of NPOs, advocating for continuous innovation and adaptability in the non-profit sector.

A Systematic Literature Review on the Role of Human Ecology Higher Education Institutions in Policy Development for Food and Nutrition Security in the Philippines

The issue of Food and Nutrition Security (FNS) in the Philippines has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and persistent social, environmental and agricultural problems. To address this concern, the involvement of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is explored by reviewing the local policies in the Philippines. Applications and recommendations on how human ecology can address the complex problem of FNS were then noted. This systematic literature review used a framework synthesis approach wherein the Australian National University (ANU) Transdisciplinary Framework was used to check if the stated policies, applications, and recommendations were aligned with the framework components, which are interactive, integrative, change-oriented, systemic, context-based, and pluralistic. This transdisciplinary framework is expected to promote policy change and development related to FNS. After that, 38 articles were included in the review. Upon the review, no local policies fit all of the ANU Transdisciplinary Framework’s components. Nonetheless, these policies mostly separately address food security and nutrition security. However, there are still no established responses to the concern of FNS as an integrated concept of food security and nutrition security. HEIs contribute to developing FNS-related policies by intensifying advocacy for integrating food and nutrition security and improving FNS-related research and programs.

Analysis of Islamic Religious Education in Responding to the Challenges of Globalization

Globalization brings significant changes in various aspects of life, including education. In schools, Islamic Religious Education faces substantial challenges in the face of current globalization, which often affects local cultural values and identity. This journal aims to analyze how Islamic Religious Education can adapt and respond to the challenges of globalization in schools. This research uses a qualitative approach with literature study methods and in-depth interviews with educators and educational practitioners. The results of the analysis show that P.A.I. in schools needs to integrate global values while maintaining the basic principles of Islamic teachings. The proposed strategy includes adjusting the curriculum to include international issues with an Islamic perspective, training educators to face global challenges, and developing relevant learning media. It is hoped that these findings can guide the development of educational policies and practices that are more responsive to the challenges of globalization while still maintaining the integrity of Islamic values.

Evaluation of the Interdisciplinary Care Home-bAsed Reablement Program (I-CHARP) for People Living With Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Care Homes.

Major knowledge and practice gaps exist in aged care home services to support independence of older people with dementia. This research evaluates an adaptation of a community-based rehabilitation model for care homes, namely Interdisciplinary Care Home-bAsed Reablement Program (I-CHARP), by examining whether (and, if so, how) I-CHARP produces its intended effects and how this programme can be practicably implemented, sustained and scaled up across care homes in Australia. I-CHARP is a 4-month bio-behavioural-environmental rehabilitation model of care, integrated in care home services, supported through the deployment of an implementation strategy, the Research Enabled Aged Care Homes (REACH) network. It consists of (1) 8-12 full individual sessions and additional eight brief follow-ups per resident, tailored to the resident's needs, delivered primarily by a team of an occupational therapist, registered nurse and other allied health staff; (2) environmental modifications/assistive devices up to the value of $400 per resident; and (3) engagement of intervention care home staff, managers and regular visitors. An overarching evaluation approach is participatory action research using a cluster quasi-experimental design and mixed methods. It involves testing of the implementation strategy (REACH network and other approaches) while observing/gathering information on the intervention (I-CHARP) and related outcomes in three cycles. Participants include residents (aged ≥ 60 years with early stages of dementia) and care staff from 16 care homes. Care quality indicators, health care costs, field notes and semi-structured interviews/focus groups with intervention site staff, regular visitors and managers will provide further insights into I-CHARP processes and implementation issues. In the final phase of the project, an Agile Implementation Playbook will be developed for the delivery of reablement care that can be used in routine practice across care homes in Australia. The study findings will also inform future policy development and strategic directions for dementia care in care homes. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry, ACTRN12623000885695 Registered 16 August 2023, https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=386088. 1.0 dated 20 July 2023.

Revealing the influence of food industry actors in relation to nutritional policies in Belgium

Abstract Unhealthy food is one of the prevailing risk factors of NCDs and cancers, making the food industry a key player in their prevention. However, evidence-based public health policies aimed at reducing consumption of unhealthy food, may threaten industry sales. In response, food industry actors try to influence the development and implementation of these nutritional policies by engaging in corporate political activities (CPA). As part of the Joint Action PreventNCD, the CPA of relevant food industry actors in relation to public health nutritional policies will be assessed. In Belgium, strategies of Fevia, the umbrella organization of the food industry, are examined. This study analyses publicly available information collected from Fevia’s website, social media accounts (i.e. X and LinkedIn), newsletters and newspapers. A thematic qualitative analysis is conducted using established frameworks to categorize both framing and action strategies used by the industry. The categorization of framing strategies reveals how the food industry presents the actors, problems, and solutions. The framework of action strategies categorizes the CPA of the food industry under the following six strategies: information and messaging; financial incentives; constituency building; legal action; policy substitution; opposition fragmentation and destabilization. Preliminary results indicate that the industry often frames itself as ‘the good actor’ and primarily uses strategies such as ‘information and messaging’, ‘constituency building’ and ‘policy substitution’ to influence policies in Belgium in their favor. In the next phase, interviews with stakeholders (e.g. policymakers, politicians,...) will be performed to collect undocumented information. Overall, this research sheds light on the ongoing CPA of the food industry and will increase transparency in their influence on the development and implementation of effective nutritional policies aimed at reducing the burden of NCDs and cancers. Key messages • This study reveals how the umbrella organization of the food industry in Belgium influences public health nutritional policies through various corporate political action and framing strategies. • Identifying these CPA increases awareness of the industry’s influence, but also promotes their transparency and accountability, which is crucial for reliable and effective nutritional policy.

4.B. Round table: Closing the loop in the European Health Data Space: relation between primary and secondary data use

Abstract Currently, data collection processes in healthcare institutions across Europe remain exclusively geared towards the needs of primary use. Neither medical professionals’ clinical workflows, nor the data infrastructures and data management processes established within different organisations allow for the kind of highly standardised and structured data collection, processing and segregation from operational systems that secondary use requires. The development of a European Health Data Space offers large possibilities for research and innovation. High quality or primary data and secure pathways are required for the secondary use of data. Closing the loop and making relevant information from secondary use of data available to clinicians and health care professionals is a crucial step to build trust and enable a cultural shift that will enable health innovations and targeted treatments reach all those who could benefit from them without delay. Closing the loop between primary and secondary use of data will accelerate the shift from treatment of illness to prediction and prevention in the way healthcare is delivered - a shift that will need to be accompanied by an overhaul of European health systems’ current funding and reimbursement models. Establishing trustworthy sources of information and guidance for the use of novel health technologies, as well as involving patients and their caregivers early in the development of concrete applications, could help to foster better understanding and build trust in this area. To ensure acceptance, it will be particularly important for these developments to be driven by identified problems and defined needs in healthcare. Efforts should be made to address and include all parts of the population, not just the highly engaged and usually highly educated patients who typically participate in collaborative initiatives. The workshop will provide a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness between primary data and secondary use of health data. High quality of data and secure pathways are required for the secondary use of data. The workshop will explore paths for the evaluation of data-driven innovation and its introduction into clinical pathways that need to be further developed and standardised across the EU and the role that different actors in the health data system must play to meet the needs for secure and high-quality of data for research and policy development. The importance of actors like healthcare professionals, patients and citizens as well as the role of industry, public-private partnerships and relevance of health data innovative solutions will be addressed by each of the panellists and collaboration pathways for closing the loop will be further explored. The discussion will use and build on the findings and solutions identified in the EIT Health Think Tank report ‘Implementing the EHDS across Europe’. Key messages • In order to move to a data sharing environment, a cultural shift is needed to foster an environment of equality and openness to share data. • Healthcare professionals, patients and citizens are active participants and public-private partnerships could be instrumental to foster novel solutions and trust in this cultural transformation. Speakers/Panelists Nienke Schutte Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium Milana Trucl European Patient Forum, Etterbeek, Belgium Sinead O’Connor Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland Aneta Tyszkiewicz EFPIA, Brussels, Belgium Elina Drakvik Sitra, Helsinki, Finland

Loneliness in Baltic-Nordic Older Adults Amid COVID-19

Abstract Background The study investigates loneliness among older adults in the Baltic-Nordic region, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to understand how loneliness varies across cultural and socio-economic contexts in these areas, which is critical for developing public health strategies tailored to the specific needs of older populations. Methods We employed a comprehensive comparative analysis, leveraging data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) and the HL20 study from Iceland, focusing on individuals aged 67 and above. The study encompassed a diverse sample from Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, Finland, Latvia, and Iceland, totaling 5,313 participants. This research is part of a bilateral EEA FM2021/23 initiative to enhance methodological approaches to analyzing older populations by coding and standardizing variables for comparability across different countries. Results Significant regional differences in loneliness were observed. The Baltic regions reported a higher prevalence of loneliness compared to the Nordic countries, which displayed lower levels, attributed to strong social welfare systems and community engagement. Factors such as employment, marital status, and educational attainment varied across regions, affecting loneliness levels. Conclusions The findings highlight the importance of considering regional cultural and social contexts in public health interventions aimed at reducing loneliness among older adults. The study underscores the need for targeted strategies that address the unique social dynamics of the Baltic and Nordic regions. Innovative public health actions, such as community engagement programs and policy development, are recommended to alleviate loneliness in these populations. Key messages • Significant regional differences in loneliness in the Baltic-Nordic region underscore the need for tailored public health interventions. • Employment and social welfare are key factors in mitigating loneliness among older adults, highlighting the importance of socio-economic support systems.

Towards integration of care in Portugal: Expansion of a new management model for the NHS

Abstract Introduction In 1999, the first Local Health Unit (LHU) was created in the Northern region of Portugal to improve management, share resources and integrate care. The LHU integrated a National Health Service (NHS) hospital and primary healthcare (PHC) services located within the same geographic area and became responsible for public health activities and the provision of care. Over the next few years, 7 LHUs were created, the last one in 2012. In 2024, the government expanded this model to the entire territory, creating 39 LHUs. This research analyses the objectives, characteristics and expected outcomes of the scale-up of LHUs. Methods This study utilised a mixed methods approach based on the 6 Ps - Problem, People (policy stakeholders), Process (policy development), Price tag (Resource allocation), Paper (policies, laws, regulations), Programmes (policy implementation); and the political, social and economic setting of the Policy Circle Framework. Findings A 2015 assessment revealed that LHUs did not differ from non-LHUs in terms of access, waiting times, clinical excellency, patient safety or patient centeredness. The degree of integration of care in LHUs seemed lower compared with non-LHUs. However, there was no systematic evaluation of the creation of the first LHU. Despite this, the government announced the intention to expand LHUs to the entire national territory, which culminated with the creation of 39 LHUs in 2024 to deliver integrated care, with an emphasis on the proximity and continuity of health services and promotion. Conclusions Despite the existing knowledge gap on the impacts of LHUs in health outcomes and management efficiency, LHUs can provide opportunities to advance integrated and patient-centred care and develop strategies for managing scarce resources, including the health workforce. Nevertheless, the integration of hospitals and PHC can threaten the centrality of primary health care both in terms of delivery of care and resource allocation.

The transition towards a healthy and sustainable food system at local level: the Brussels City case

Abstract Despite the European Union’s political efforts to promote healthier and more sustainable food systems, challenges persist, with these systems not yet achieving sustainability and still exacerbating health inequalities. The EU-funded FEAST project aims to catalyse this transition through different actions including by focusing on mapping factors shaping food environments in five European cities, including Brussels. This study focuses on mapping existing policies and initiatives by the city government supporting healthier and more sustainable food systems in Brussels City. Policies were then categorized based on Food-EPI domains, types of policies (i.e. financial incentive) and role of the government (i.e. policy development). Results indicated that while Brussels City has a clear strategy (Good Food Strategy) and objectives (Climate Action Plan) to support the transition, there is a notable emphasis on sustainability over health which could be explained by the absence of a dedicated public health expert in the local government. While there are numerous policies focused on improving the school environment (i.e. healthy and sustainable canteens, banned sodas and snack provision, forbidden advertising inside and nearby of unhealthy foods), there is a lack of corresponding measures for public spaces. Furthermore legislative policies are practically inexistent possibly due to jurisdictional barriers from higher governmental levels. Stakeholder interviews will be conducted in the next phase to delve deeper into these issues and to explore potential facilitators and barriers faced in the development and implementation process of these policies. Overall, this research sheds light on the policy landscape in Brussels City, highlighting both progress, areas for improvement and policy gaps in advancing towards healthier and more sustainable food systems. Key messages • Despite EU political efforts to prioritise more sustainable food systems, relevant barriers are still present at local level in Brussels City, hampering the development and implementation of policies. • In Brussels relevant policies for healthier and more sustainable food systems have been implemented, especially in the school environment, but health seems to be overshadowed by sustainability.

8.M. Skills building seminar: Mental health and substance use in Europe

Abstract The impact of social factors on individual and population mental health are well established (Kirkbride, et al., 2024). The same social factors may trigger the substance use behavior developing into substance use disorders. Mental health disorders can contribute to the substance use and substance use disorders with worsening effects over time (EMCDDA, 2016). This association between substance use, substance use disorders and mental health disorders is a key objective for the scientific consideration and policy development. Respective phenomena are universal and a broader perspective would be useful for a better understanding of how the issue of comorbidities of substance use and mental disorders are addressed on a European level. Identification of the substance use problem, especially among populations in vulnerable situations, like migrants, becomes utterly important. Heterogenous systematic reviews show that there is a need for socially and culturally refugee sensitive instruments to measure the substance use in migrants. Oftentimes substance use is followed by the substance use disorders and drug use related infections. Injecting drug use is also a risk factor for having drug use related infections, such as hepatitis B and C, HIV, tuberculosis. Assessment of risk behaviour patterns among people who inject drugs may contribute to a higher participation in treatment and health programmes, reduce the burden of substance use and tackle comorbidities of substance use and mental health disorders. The skill building seminar aims to increase the knowledge and capacities on substance use and comorbidities, applied methodological approaches and tools in different European contexts. This workshop will support researchers, policy makers, public health planners by providing evidence base to address substance use and mental health issues. The added value of this workshop is based on the structure, content and mode of presentations - presentations will be followed by questions from participants and short discussions. The workshop will start with the general introduction to the topic of comorbidities of substance use and mental health disorders (EUPHA-PMH and EUDA). Then the European level perspective on comorbidities of substance use and mental health disorders will be presented including recent policy developments (1 presentation by Linda Montanari, EUDA). It will be supported with research results from the study conducted in Germany on substance use assessment tool development in migrant population (2 presentation by Kim-Julian Behr, Germany) and behavioural risk factor assessment study among people who inject drugs in Lithuania (3 presentation by Marija Jakubauskiene, Lithuania). Key messages • Participatory approach is useful to address the substance use problem in assessment tool development and further monitoring. • Better understanding of comorbidity of substance use and mental disorders leads to a more effective prevention.

Generative AI and Higher Education: Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions from a Systematic Literature Review

(1) Background: The development of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is transforming higher education. This systematic literature review synthesizes recent empirical studies on the use of GAI, focusing on its impact on teaching, learning, and institutional practices. (2) Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search strategy was employed to locate scientific articles on GAI in higher education published by Scopus and Web of Science between January 2023 and January 2024. (3) Results: The search identified 102 articles, with 37 meeting the inclusion criteria. These studies were grouped into three themes: the application of GAI technologies, stakeholder acceptance and perceptions, and specific use situations. (4) Discussion: Key findings include GAI’s versatility and potential use, student acceptance, and educational enhancement. However, challenges such as assessment practices, institutional strategies, and risks to academic integrity were also noted. (5) Conclusions: The findings help identify potential directions for future research, including assessment integrity and pedagogical strategies, ethical considerations and policy development, the impact on teaching and learning processes, the perceptions of students and instructors, technological advancements, and the preparation of future skills and workforce readiness. The study has certain limitations, particularly due to the short time frame and the search criteria, which might have varied if conducted by different researchers.

Built Environment’s Non-Linear Impact on Subway Passenger Flow Through Improved Interpretable Machine Learning

Understanding the complex correlation between the built environment and subway passenger flow can provide unique insights for the development of transportation operations and urban coordination policies. Few studies have systematically analyzed the rationality of selecting built environment variables and further explored the non-linear relationships. In this study, we integrated various sources of built environmental factors and developed an interpretable machine learning analysis framework using backward elimination extreme gradient boosting and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values analysis (BE-XGBoost-SHAP). The framework was validated by analyzing passenger flows during the morning peak, non-peak, and evening peak periods at the station level. The research results indicate that there are significant differences between built environment factors and the time-varying passenger flow. Land use characteristics significantly dominate across all three temporal periods. The importance of other variable types in relation to passenger flows varies significantly across the three time periods. It is worth noting that the relationships between all variables and passenger flow at different time periods are non-linear, with the majority displaying threshold effects. Compared with the gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) and ordinary least squares (OLS) models, the proposed interpretive framework performs better as regards R-square, root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE) metrics. This study offers valuable insights, elucidating the pivotal land use attributes that notably affect passenger flow, the significance of varied built environment factors across distinct time spans, and the acknowledgment of non-linearities and threshold effects within these relationships. These findings are imperative for urban planning and the enhancement of station area design.

Preventing battery ingestion in children: public health strategies and technological innovations

Abstract Background Accidental ingestion of button batteries can cause severe and sometimes fatal injuries, such as chemical burns, esophageal perforations, and long-term complications. In response to this challenge, prevention strategies have evolved. A recent example of safety-targeted technological innovation includes new coin lithium batteries with more secure packaging, a non-toxic bitter coating to deter ingestion, and a ‘color alert technology’ that activates a blue dye upon contact with saliva. These features are designed to discourage ingestion and facilitate the rapid identification of an injury, allowing for timely medical intervention. Methods This abstract reviews the public health strategies proposed or implemented to prevent this serious type of injury, augmented by an analysis of data from the Susy Safe registry, which identified 1,115 cases of battery ingestion in children, and an additional 94 cases from the literature, totaling 1,209 injuries. Results The review of existing prevention strategies highlights various approaches, including public awareness campaigns, enhanced product regulations, and the implementation of stricter safety standards for batteries and devices. Analysis of Susy Safe data helps characterize the issue, underscoring the frequency and circumstances of battery ingestions and provides an empirical basis to assess the effectiveness of existing prevention strategies and to guide the development of new policies. The combination of technological improvements and legislative initiatives could represent a significant breakthrough in preventing these dangerous injuries. Conclusions While technological innovations are promising, effective prevention of battery ingestion will require a multifaceted approach that integrates technology, education, public policy, and regulatory oversight. Collaboration among manufacturers, lawmakers, health professionals, and the community is essential to reduce the incidence of these medical emergencies. Key messages • Accidental ingestion of button batteries can cause severe and sometimes fatal injuries. • The combination of technological improvements and legislative initiatives could represent a significant breakthrough in preventing button batteries in children.

НАСТОЛНА КНИГА ПО СЪВРЕМЕННИ ПРОАКТИВНИ ПУБЛИЧНИ ПОЛИТИКИ ЗА НАМАЛЯВАНЕ НА БЕДНОСТТА В БЪЛГАРИЯ

Recently, the Publishing Complex - UNWE made available the interesting study of Dr. Ralitsa Veleva "Proactive Public Policies for Poverty Reduction". This monograph deserves attention mainly due to the still existing deficit in Bulgaria of complex analyses on the development and implementation of proactive public policies for poverty reduction. The work of the young author breaks the tradition in the Bulgarian social space to discuss extensively and in priority "welfare", and its antipode "poverty" - only as incidental touches and by the way. And it is brazenly "present on the table" of a significant part of the population, which lives this ingrained scarcity as its own social drama. What is clearly needed is, first, a professional identification of the level and trends of poverty in the country, and second, the development and implementation of credible radical instruments for its definite mitigation and containment.