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Structural health monitoring of concrete bridges through artificial intelligence : a narrative review
Get PDFConcrete has been one of the most essential building materials for decades, valued for its durability, cost efficiency, and wide availability of required components. Over time, the number of concrete bridges has been drastically increasing, highlighting the need for timely structural health monitoring (SHM) to ensure their safety and long-term durability. Therefore, a narrative review was conducted to examine the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-integrated techniques in the SHM of concrete bridges for more effective monitoring. Moreover, this review also examined significant damage observed in various types of concrete bridges, with particular emphasis on concrete cracking, detection methods, and identification accuracy. Evidence points to the fact that the conventional SHM of concrete bridges relies on manual inspections that are time-consuming, error-prone, and require frequent checks, while AI-driven SHM methods have emerged as promising alternatives, especially through Machine Learning- and Deep Learning-based solutions. In addition, it was noticeable that integrating multimodal AI approaches improved the accuracy and reliability of concrete bridge assessments. Furthermore, this review is essential as it also addresses critical gaps in SHM approaches and suggests developing more accurate detection techniques, providing enhanced spatial resolution for monitoring concrete bridges.peer-reviewe
Exploring the impact of interactive games on the acquisition of Maltese prepositions
Get PDFGame-based learning is becoming more generally acknowledged as a successful instructional approach in higher education. The present study investigates the impact and effectiveness of game-based learning on adult international students, focusing on the interactive game The Mdina Castle’s Treasure Quest, to teach Maltese prepositions. While Żammit (2024) explored the theoretical potential of game-based learning, this study contributes empirical evidence demonstrating its effectiveness in practice. The following discussion contextualises these results within existing pedagogical literature. The study comprised an experimental group that acquired knowledge of Maltese prepositions using a game-based platform set on The Mdina Castle’s Treasure Quest and a control group that received conventional lecture-based training from the same teacher. The experimental group, consisting of 64 adult learners from international backgrounds, engaged in a game to find concealed medieval artefacts within the vast corridors, subterranean rooms, and fortified towers of Mdina Castle. Conversely, the control group, consisting of 62 adult learners, received instruction utilising conventional classroom techniques. The results indicated that the group participating in game-based learning achieved significantly higher scores than the control group in post-instruction evaluations on Maltese prepositions, highlighting the efficacy of this approach in structured language learning. Furthermore, the participants who engaged in game-based learning exhibited elevated levels of engagement, motivation, and favourable attitudes toward the process of learning. However, while these findings demonstrate the immediate effectiveness of game-based learning, future research should explore its long-term retention impact to determine the sustainability of learning outcomes. Providing vital insights into the efficacy of game-based approaches in higher education, this study emphasises the benefits of interactive gaming in language acquisition for adult learners and underscores the importance of immersive educational experiences.peer-reviewe
On the complexities of enabling demonstrated consent
Get PDFBarnes et al. (Citation2025) introduce a novel vision for biobanking consent in their article “Enabling Demonstrated Consent for Biobanking with Blockchain and Generative AI.” Their concept of “demonstrated consent” leverages blockchain technology and non fungible tokens, along with large language models to enhance transparency and participant engagement. We put this novel framework in context of existing approaches, and highlight some key questions that arise. [excerpt]peer-reviewe
Pro-environmental initiatives in the hospitality sector as a driver of brand loyalty among Generation Z
Get PDFPURPOSE: This study explores the role of pro-environmental initiatives in the hospitality
sector in driving brand loyalty among Generation Z consumers. With the increasing
environmental awareness reshaping the hospitality industry, the research highlights
Generation Z as a pivotal demographic driving modern consumer trends in this sector.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A quantitative survey involving 575 Generation Z
respondents provides valuable insights into their sustainability attitudes and preferences.
This paper presents a literature review that offers a theoretical foundation and contextual
understanding of the topic, along with practical, research-based recommendations, for
companies in the hospitality sector to commit to implementing pro-environmental initiatives.FINDINGS: The research findings underline the importance of tailoring sustainability
initiatives in the hospitality industry to meet the specific expectations of Generation Z, a
demographic poised to shape the industry’s future. By focusing on sustainable practices and
transparent communication, the hospitality sector can cultivate long-term brand loyalty
within this cohort, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that supports both business
objectives and environmental goals.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This constitutes a statement that pro-environmental initiatives not
only meet ethical standards but also serve as strategic tools for fostering customer loyalty
from this cohort.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: Both theoretical and empirical research presented in this article reveal a
strong alignment between pro-environmental initiatives and brand loyalty, among consumers
from Generation Z.peer-reviewe
A dual stable isotope study of the effect of altitude and simulated flight on glucose metabolism in type 1 diabetes : a randomized crossover study
Get PDFThe impact of atmospheric pressure changes on glucose metabolism encountered in aviation on people with type 1 diabetes is controversial. A dual-isotope study was performed in a hypobaric chamber to simulate pressure changes experienced on commercial flights. The fasting and postprandial glucose kinetics of individuals with type 1 diabetes were evaluated across simulated in-flight cabin pressures (550 mmHg; experimental arm) and ground level (750 mmHg; control arm). The impact of ambient pressure on glucose disposal (Rd), endogenous glucose production (EGP), meal glucose appearance (Ra), and insulin concentrations were evaluated. Six male participants, aged 20–61 years, with a median BMI of 26.6 kg/m2, were studied. Baseline glucose Rd, EGP, and meal Ra values were not affected by ambient pressure changes. Postprandial glucose Rd was higher in hypobaric conditions than ground, the percent change in postprandial glucose concentration was lower, but postprandial EGP and meal Ra were not affected. Insulin concentration between 120 and 180 min was higher in the hypobaric simulation. The observed increase in glucose Rd for individuals with type 1 diabetes who were using insulin pumps may be related to the hypoxia and pressure changes experienced during flight. Because glucose profiles were unaffected, there is no evidence that insulin pump therapy is a risk factor in flight.peer-reviewe
The determinants of economic growth in Poland in 2018-2023
Get PDFPURPOSE: The aim of this article is to answer the question, how did the main economic
determinants influence economic growth in Poland in the period of 2018-2023, and to
formulate some recommendations for economic policy supporting long term economic
growth in the future.DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: During the research period and, more broadly, in 2016-
2023, the monetary and fiscal policies were both subordinated to political goals and were
not based on economic principles or consistent over time. Voluntarism was omnipotent.
Government activity in the field of economic policy largely resembled the principles of the
so-called modern monetary theory, but no one will confirm that policy – the makers at that
time had no idea about this theory. The study has used the Keynesian equation concerning
the open economy, known from the literature. It proposes 3 models to evaluate the
performance of the Polish economy in the study period using quarterly data from the base
“Metadata by countries” (IFS) – IMF Data.FINDINGS: The estimation results indicate a good model fit. All the variables are statistically
significant. The variability of GDP growth (ld_GDP) is most strongly affected by the
variability of households’ consumption growth (ld_C), followed by the variability of
investment growth (ld_GFCF) and government consumption growth (ld_GC). The growth of
exports (ld_EX) variability has a lower impact on GDP growth variability than the variables
mentioned above.PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The period of 2018-2023 was specific in the functioning of the Polish
economy. It was characterized by a lack of coordination of fiscal and monetary policies and
voluntarism in making macroeconomic decisions based on political calculations. In addition,
the pandemic crisis affected the global as well as the Polish economies, leaving a significant
impact on economic growth processes.ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This was exacerbated by the energy and raw materials crisis caused by
the war in Ukraine. The above factors significantly undermined Poland’s economic growth
and, together with an expansionary macroeconomic policy, led to a relatively high, doubledigit inflation compared to other EU countries.peer-reviewe
Arabic in context : essays on language, dialects, and culture in honour of Martin R. Zammit
No full textThis Festschrift, Arabic in Context, is a tribute to the remarkable scholarly legacy of the Reverend Professor Martin R. Zammit. It celebrates his extensive contributions to the fields of Semitic Studies, Arabic linguistics, and comparative Semitic philology.
Spanning decades of dedicated research and teaching, Professor Zammit’s career has been marked by a profound engagement with the Arabic language and its diverse dialects, as well as its historical and cultural intersections with Maltese and Syriac.
The volume features a carefully curated collection of essays authored by distinguished scholars, reflecting the breadth and depth of Professor Zammit’s academic interests. Topics range from Arabic dialectology and phonetics to linguistic contact phenomena and the grammaticalisation processes in Semitic languages. Contributions explore the linguistic heritage of Central Asia, the Judeo-Arabic traditions of Libya and Syria, and the influences of Arabic on Maltese toponymy and idiomatic expressions. Together, these studies exemplify the rich interdisciplinarity and intellectual rigour that characterise Professor Zammit’s work.
This Festschrift not only honours Professor Zammit’s enduring scholarly impact but also serves as a vital resource for linguists, philologists, and researchers in the fields of Arabic and Semitic studies. It stands as a testament to his dedication to fostering academic inquiry and dialogue, inspiring both colleagues and students alike. This volume ensures that his scholarly contributions will continue to influence and inform the field for years to come.peer-reviewe
Deciphering key nano-bio interface descriptors to predict nanoparticle-induced lung fibrosis
Get PDFBackground:
The advancement of nanotechnology underscores the imperative need for establishing in silico predictive models to assess safety, particularly in the context of chronic respiratory afflictions such as lung fibrosis, a pathogenic transformation that is irreversible. While the compilation of predictive descriptors is pivotal for in silico model development, key features specifically tailored for predicting lung fibrosis remain elusive. This study aimed to uncover the essential predictive descriptors governing nanoparticle-induced pulmonary fibrosis.Methods:
We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the trajectory of metal oxide nanoparticles (MeONPs) within pulmonary systems. Two biological media (simulated lung fluid and phagolysosomal simulated fluid) and two cell lines (macrophages and epithelial cells) were meticulously chosen to scrutinize MeONP behaviors. Their interactions with MeONPs, also referred to as nano-bio interactions, can lead to alterations in the properties of the MeONPs as well as specific cellular responses. Physicochemical properties of MeONPs were assessed in biological media. The impact of MeONPs on cell membranes, lysosomes, mitochondria, and cytoplasmic components was evaluated using fluorescent probes, colorimetric enzyme substrates, and ELISA. The fibrogenic potential of MeONPs in mouse lungs was assessed by examining collagen deposition and growth factor release. Random forest classification was employed for analyzing in chemico, in vitro and in vivo data to identify predictive descriptors.Results:
The nano-bio interactions induced diverse changes in the 4 characteristics of MeONPs and had variable effects on the 14 cellular functions, which were quantitatively evaluated in chemico and in vitro. Among these 18 quantitative features, seven features were found to play key roles in predicting the pro-fibrogenic potential of MeONPs. Notably, IL-1β was identified as the most important feature, contributing 27.8% to the model’s prediction. Mitochondrial activity (specifically NADH levels) in macrophages followed closely with a contribution of 17.6%. The remaining five key features include TGF-β1 release and NADH levels in epithelial cells, dissolution in lysosomal simulated fluids, zeta potential, and the hydrodynamic size of MeONPs.Conclusions:
The pro-fibrogenic potential of MeONPs can be predicted by combination of key features at nano-bio interfaces, simulating their behavior and interactions within the lung environment. Among the 18 quantitative features, a combination of seven in chemico and in vitro descriptors could be leveraged to predict lung fibrosis in animals. Our findings offer crucial insights for developing in silico predictive models for nano-induced pulmonary fibrosis.peer-reviewe
Reactions to street brutality against public officers
Get PDFViolence against law enforcement remains a critical issue; the Independence Day 2024 assault on two police officers in Hamrun went viral. This incident catalysed public outrage and legislative action, highlighting the urgency of addressing such violence towards the men and women in blue.
A brutal assault on two police officers in Hamrun, marked a pivotal moment in public and legislative response to violence against law enforcement. This incident was captured in viral footage that provoked widespread societal outrage and catalysed swift actions from the Executive, Judiciary, and Legislature. This paper examines the incident's implications, contextualized within a two-decade history of 3,587 recorded cases of violence against public officers. Despite a 75% reduction in physical assaults since 2013, the persistence of violence underscores the occupational hazards faced by law enforcement officials.
Key drivers behind the reduction in assaults include increased street-level policing, the implementation of a Police Transformation Strategy, and the 2021 introduction of body-cams which have proven to deter violence and provide crucial evidence. The Hamrun assault highlighted gaps in deterrence measures, prompting legislative reforms to strengthen sanctions. These include higher fines, elimination of suspended sentences, and increased prison terms, with penalties up to €25,000 and seven years imprisonment.
The study evaluates the potential efficacy of these legal amendments in mitigating violence against officers while addressing societal concerns over proportionality and justice. It concludes that sustained reductions in assault rates will determine the success of these measures, marking a critical step toward enhanced safety and security for law enforcement personnel.
The paper examines the historical trends and recent reductions in violence against officers, driven by reforms such as community policing, body-cams, and the Police Transformation Strategy. Despite progress, gaps in deterrence led to swift legislative amendments, introducing higher fines, stricter sentencing, and enhanced penalties. The study evaluates these measures' potential to further reduce assault rates and enhance societal safety.peer-reviewe
Creative expression, community, and calculated risks : protective and risk factors associated with BMX
Get PDFThis study explores the role of Bicycle Motocross (BMX) beyond its conventional recreational function, focusing on its impact on individual and social wellbeing. Through a quantitative approach employing the Adolescent Resilience Questionnaire and a tailored BMX Riding Experiences Survey, factors associated to BMX are used to predict mental and social health in riders ages 15 years to 55 years old (n=240) using linear regression analysis. The individual wellbeing dimensions investigated include confidence, emotional insight, negative cognition, social skills, and empathy. Additionally, social wellbeing aspects such as family, school, and peer connectedness are examined. Findings indicate that peer encouragement, family support, helping others after falls, creative opportunities, observational learning, and contributing to local riding spots emerged as significant positive predictors of overall wellbeing. Additionally, problem-solving demands and embracing managed risks in BMX correlated with reduced anxious thinking patterns. This research underscores the significance of BMX not merely as a recreational activity but as a promoter of comprehensive wellbeing across multiple domains.peer-reviewe