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Neural signals, machine learning, and the future of inner speech recognition
No full textInner speech recognition (ISR) is an emerging field with significant potential for applications in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and assistive technologies. This review focuses on the critical role of machine learning (ML) in decoding inner speech, exploring how various ML techniques improve the analysis and classification of neural signals. We analyze both traditional methods such as support vector machines (SVMs) and random forests, as well as advanced deep learning approaches like convolutional neural networks (CNNs), which are particularly effective at capturing the dynamic and non-linear patterns of inner speech-related brain activity. Also, the review covers the challenges of acquiring high-quality neural signals and discusses essential preprocessing methods for enhancing signal quality. Additionally, we outline and synthesize existing approaches for improving ISR through ML, that can lead to many potential implications in several domains, including assistive communication, brain-computer interfaces, and cognitive monitoring. The limitations of current technologies were also discussed, along with insights into future advancements and potential applications of machine learning in inner speech recognition (ISR). Building on prior literature, this work synthesizes and organizes existing ISR methodologies within a structured mathematical framework, reviews cognitive models of inner speech, and presents a detailed comparative analysis of existing ML approaches, thereby offering new insights into advancing the field.Open-access publication of this article will be covered by the Qatar University
Report from the World Health Organization's Immunization and Vaccines-related Implementation Research Advisory Committee (IVIR-AC) meeting, virtual gathering, 1–5 September 2025
No full textServing as the World Health Organization's (WHO) key advisory body for independently reviewing research that assesses the impact and value of vaccines, particularly using transmission and economic modeling analyses, the Immunization and Vaccines-related Implementation Research Advisory Committee (IVIR-AC) gathered for its second semi-annual meeting of 2025 from 1 to 5 September and complemented by ad hoc sessions on 8–10 July. IVIR-AC provided feedback and recommendations across eleven key sessions. This report summarizes the discussions and outcomes of the meeting. Topics covered included leveraging implementation research in WHO African region, Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) impact modeling, subnational immunization coverage estimates for priority countries, modeling diphtheria-tetanus-and-pertussis burden and vaccination strategies, guidance to translate modeling to support evidence-informed decision-making for immunization, multi-model comparisons for typhoid conjugate vaccine schedules, novel metrics to value combination vaccines, stockpiling and vaccination strategies for Ebola response, malaria multi-model comparison of prioritized interventions, additional seasonal doses of malaria vaccine, and 3-dose vs 4-dose malaria vaccine schedule in perennial settings
Exploring the Circular Economy in International Business: Current Trends and Future Directions—A Systematic Literature Review
No full textThe circular economy (CE) is increasingly central to international business, promoting resource efficiency and mitigating environmental impacts. However, existing literature often examines isolated elements—such as supply chains, innovation, or business models—resulting in a fragmented understanding of circularity within this domain. To address this gap, the present study conducts a systematic literature review of 128 PRISMA-screened articles, employing thematic analysis to identify six prevailing themes. Despite growing interest, the absence of a cohesive framework has led to disjointed inquiries that overlook the systemic complexities of embedding CE in international business. Anchored in the Attention-Based View and synthesized through the Multi-Level Perspective framework, this review reveals critical research gaps. At the micro level, limited attention is given to entrepreneurship, retailer engagement, and the integration of artificial intelligence. At the meso level, studies insufficiently address cross-sector collaboration and localized strategic alliances. At the macro level, consumer-driven circularity remains underexplored. This study proposes an integrative framework to bridge these levels, advancing both theoretical understanding and practical application. By aligning diverse insights, it delineates strategic pathways for institutionalizing CE principles in international business, thereby supporting sustainable development and environmental stewardship.This research was supported by Qatar University Collaborative Grant. Project title: Scaling Qatar’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in the Emerging Sectors: Policy Insights on Needs to Empower Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Knowledge Economy’, Project no. QUCG-CAS-24/25–396
Maternal phthalate exposure, gestational length, and preterm birth risk: a prospective cohort study nested within a randomised trial
No full textBackground: Preterm birth ( 99% of urine samples, with the highest concentrations observed for mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), and mono-butyl phthalate (MBP). There was no evidence of an association between phthalate exposure and gestational length in either unadjusted or adjusted analyses. No significant association was found between phthalate exposure and preterm birth risk. Conclusions: Despite widespread phthalate exposure, no clear link was identified between maternal phthalate levels and shortened gestation in this Australian cohort. However, continued surveillance is needed to monitor emerging plasticiser exposures and inform public health policies on maternal and infant health. Trial registration number: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number, ACTRN12613001142729. Date of registration: 27/09/2013.KB received a MS McLeod Research Fund Postdoctoral Fellowship from the Women\u2019s and Children\u2019s Hospital Foundation (2019\u20132021) for the project \u201CPrenatal nutrition interventions to optimise childhood outcomes.\u201D PM, LY, and KB received a Women\u2019s and Children\u2019s Hospital Foundation Research Project Grant titled \u201CInfluence of phthalates on length of gestation and risk of preterm birth.\u201D MM and RG received funding from the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), including a Project Grant (APP1050468) for \u201COmega-3 fats to Reduce the Incidence of Prematurity \u2013 The ORIP Trial\u201D and a Centre of Research Excellence Grant (APP1135155) for \u201CTargeted Nutrition to Improve Maternal and Child Health Outcomes.\u201D MM is also supported by an NHMRC Investigator Grant (APP2016756) for \u201CN-3 (omega-3) Precision Nutrition: Preventing prematurity and enhancing cognitive development of very preterm children.\u201D The funders had no role in the conceptualisation, design, data collection, analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.Scopu
Thymelaea hirsuta extract attenuates testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats: Effect on oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis
No full textEthnopharmacological relevanceBenign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most prominent diseases of the aged men urinary system. It is associated with cellular proliferation, hormonal imbalance, oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. Traditionally, Thymelaea hirsuta (L.) (TH) leaves and flowers were used as a decoction or infusion in traditional medicine to treat skin disorders, urinary tract infection and infertility. To date, its potential protective effects for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have not been investigated. Aim of the studyThis study explored the effects of Thymelaea hirsuta extract (THE) on the development of BPH using a rat model of testosterone induced BPH. Materials and methodsThe THE phenolic composition was identified by liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (LC-DAD). Then, 21 male Wistar rats (Ten-week old) weighting 200–250 g were separated into three groups: the group 1 was considered as a control while the group 2 and 3 received intramuscular injection of testosterone at dose of 3 mg/kg (BPH). Only the group 3 received orally THE at dose of 36 mg/kg. After four-week experimental time, the animals were sacrificed, and reproductive tissue was taken for histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Biochemical tests were also carried out. Additionally, the protein expression levels including in the inflammation pathway were analyzed by western blot. ResultsOur results revealed that THE treatment reduced the prostate weight and index. Orally THE administration improved the prostate biochemical and morphological characteristic in BPH rats and then lead to a normal prostate morphology restoration. As expected, THE supplementation significantly inhibited rat prostate enlargement, improved the pathological feature and reduced the epithelial thickness. Additionally, the anti-hyperplasic effect of THE is related to its possible ability to regulate the apoptotic and inflammatory pathways. Indeed, immunohistochemical and western blot analyses displayed a significant regulation of the apoptotic markers (Bax and Bcl-2) and a decrease in the inflammatory protein expression (NF-κB and TNF-α). Similarly, THE treatment increased the prostate cells' endogenous antioxidant capacity through the improvement of GSH level and the SOD activity. Conversely, it decreased the prostatic lipid peroxidation content. The HPLC-ESI-MSn analysis showed that chlorogenic acid and vicenin-2 were putatively identified as the major compounds of THE. ConclusionThe advanced results revealed the THE efficiency in the prevention of the testosterone-induced BPH in rats indicating that THE can be used as an alternative therapy for BPH management.Tis research was supported by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research-Tunisia
يعزز ملفهم المهني المستقبلي
No full text.احتفال القطاع الصحي بجامعة قطر بتنظيم أول حفل لتكريم طلبة جواز سفر التعليم الصح
Barriers and Bridges: L2 English Research Challenges and Pedagogical Interventions
No full textGrounded in a socio‑cultural perspective, this mixed‑methods study examines the barriers that inhibit L2 English
university students in Qatar from engaging effectively in academic research. We surveyed 87 students and conducted 20 semi-structured interviews, identifying four interrelated challenges: affective and psychological pressures, cognitive and organisational constraints, methodological unfamiliarity, and challenges in academic writing and documentation. These obstacles are shaped by the interplay of institutional infrastructures, instructional practices, and individual learner dispositions. In response, we recommend three evidence-based interventions: targeted time-management workshops to strengthen organisational and planning skills; expanded access to academic resources tailored to learners’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds; and the systematic incorporation of culturally responsive teaching strategies within research-focused courses. Moreover, our findings underscore the need for affective support to address anxiety and self-efficacy concerns, as well as structured tools to remedy planning and time-management gaps. Additionally, step-by-step methodological modules and specialised writing consultations are required to address citation and documentation issues. These insights can inform university policy toward creating scaffolded research education environments that cater to diverse student needs. By implementing these interventions and aligning curriculum design with socio-cultural principles, institutions can foster inclusive research cultures and enhance retention and success among linguistically diverse students through targeted training, collaborative support networks, and evidence-based evaluation
Exploring the antecedents and consequences of sustainability practices for food consumption and production in the hospitality industry
No full textPurpose While research on sustainability practices in hotels is growing, most existing studies focus on their environmental benefits or financial outcomes, with limited attention to the potential factors driving their successful adoption and their impact on various dimensions of firm performance (financial, environmental and societal). The purpose of this study is to introduce a holistic model incorporating internal (top management support, green open innovation and organizational resources) and external (collaboration with green suppliers and customer demands) factors, examining their role in adopting sustainability practices. Additionally, the moderating effect of competitive intensity on the relationship between sustainability practices and business performance is analyzed. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 361 hotel managers in Japan. The responses were analyzed using the partial least squares approach. Findings The findings of this study support all the internal and external factors in the proposed model, which had a positive impact on all performance types. Overall, they confirm the importance of aligning both internal and external factors to address environmental concerns more effectively. Practical implications This study demonstrates that the integration of sustainable practices in the hospitality and food industries requires a fundamental change in company strategy, focusing on a long-term planning perspective that goes beyond short-term financial results to include environmental, social and economic factors. Originality/value To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study contributes to the literature by providing one of the first empirical examinations of how green open innovation interacts with sustainability practices to influence performance. By integrating insights from the resource-based view and stakeholder theory, this study highlights the importance of aligning internal resources with external stakeholder demands to foster sustainability. These findings advance theoretical understanding and provide practical guidelines for integrating sustainability into the strategic operations of hotels.This paper was made possible by Qatar University and Marubeni Corporation Grant (# M-QJRC-2023-334).Scopu
Voluntary information and price sharing database–a scoping review of the pricing and procurement landscape across eight Commonwealth Member States
No full textBackground: The Commonwealth Health Ministers’ meetings (2021–2023) identified medicines shortages, pricing, and price transparency as critical issues. This led to the establishment of the Voluntary Information and Price Sharing Database (VIPSD) in 2021, aimed at enhancing procurement transparency, reducing costs, and sharing information on health products amongst member states. However, adoption has been limited due to competing initiatives like pooled procurement systems introduced during the pandemic. Methods: This scoping review focused on eight Commonwealth countries: Bangladesh, Dominica, Kenya, Malaysia, Malta, Solomon Islands, South Africa, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Nations were selected to represent diverse health systems, population sizes, and procurement practices. External researchers conducted literature reviews and standardised data collection to ensure consistency. Results: The review revealed varied pricing policies and procurement frameworks. Nations like Malta, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and South Africa had pharmaceutical policies ensuring affordability, while others lacked comprehensive pricing policies. Seven countries implemented pooled procurement programmes, enhancing value and reducing costs; three nations operated national health insurance schemes affecting medicine pricing. Five countries used pharmaceutical management information systems to streamline procurement. Despite these efforts, disparities persist due to fragmented frameworks, stock-outs, budget constraints, and delayed procurement processes. Conclusion: The VIPSD was identified as a potentially transformative tool to enhance transparency, promote fair pricing, improve collaboration, and ensure equitable access to innovative health products. To maximise its impact, the database requires clear scope definition, comprehensive data collection, funding, and robust maintenance. Expanding its adoption could help mitigate price disparities and strengthen medicine accessibility across Commonwealth member states.This study was partially supported by the Commonwealth Secretariat
Selective induction of apoptosis in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia by pristimerin through dual PI3K/AKT pathway inhibition and ROS generation
No full textT-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological malignancy characterized by the aberrant activation of survival pathways, particularly the PI3K/AKT axis. Pristimerin (Prist), a naturally occurring quinonemethide triterpenoid, has recently gained attention for its anti-cancer potential. In this study, we demonstrate that Prist effectively inhibits the proliferation of T-ALL cell lines (Jurkat and Molt 4) by inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and triggering intrinsic and extrinsic caspase-dependent apoptosis. Prist significantly increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and depletes glutathione (GSH), leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and cytochrome c release. Notably, ROS scavenging with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) abrogated Prist-induced apoptosis, highlighting ROS as a critical mediator of its cytotoxicity. Network pharmacology and molecular docking revealed AKT as a key target of Prist, with strong binding affinity confirmed through docking analysis. Prist downregulated phosphorylated AKT and inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (XIAP, cIAP1/2), supporting its pro-apoptotic mechanism. Importantly, Prist inhibited the proliferation and AKT phosphorylation in activated primary human T cells but spared resting T cells, indicating selective cytotoxicity. These findings establish Prist as a promising therapeutic candidate for T-ALL through the selective targeting of PI3K/AKT-driven survival signaling.The authors thank the Qatar National Library for open access support of this article