bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective mentoring strategies to support underrepresented students during a virtual summer research experience for engineering education undergraduates
Authors: Volpe Elizabeth S. , Simmons Denise R. , Mondisa Joi-Lynn , Rojas Sara
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In this study, students’ perceptions of the effective practices of their research mentors were examined. The research mentors implemented the practices informed by the Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research (CIMER) mentorship competencies to mentor underrepresented students in engineering education research in a virtual environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This research experience for undergraduates (REU) program, situated in the United States of America, consisted of undergraduate students (i.e. mentees), graduate students and faculty mentors who all had at least one underrepresented identity in engineering (i.e. Black, Latiné/x, and/or women). Using qualitative methods, we used data from reflection surveys and follow-up interviews with REU mentees to understand the outcomes of the mentorship strategies employed by the mentors in the program. The data were analyzed thematically using CIMER model constructs and social capital theory as guiding frameworks.

Findings

The results indicated the identified strategies students perceived as the most impactful for mentorship throughout the program. Students in the REU gained knowledge on how to activate social capital in mentorship relationships and how to better mentor others.

Research limitations/implications

The findings provide insight on how to operationalize the CIMER mentorship competencies to skillfully mentor underrepresented students in engineering. Given the size of the REU and the nature of qualitative research, the sample size was limited.

Practical implications

The results help inform mentorship practices for underrepresented individuals in engineering education and the workforce. Further, they add to the practical knowledge of implementing CIMER best practices virtually, at a time when the world has transitioned to more hybrid and virtual working and learning environments.

Originality/value

This study identifies impactful strategies for operationalizing mentorship strategies informed by theory- and evidence-based CIMER mentorship competencies. In addition, this study extends knowledge about how to implement mentoring best practices and engage mentorship in a virtual environment.
Operational excellence in total productive maintenance: statistical reliability as support for planned maintenance pillar
Authors: Mohad Felipe Terra , Gomes Leonardo de Carvalho , Tortorella Guilherme da Luz , Lermen Fernando Henrique
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Total productive maintenance consists of strategies and procedures that aim to guarantee the entire functioning of machines in a production process so that production is not interrupted and no loss of quality in the final product occurs. Planned maintenance is one of the eight pillars of total productive maintenance, a set of tools considered essential to ensure equipment reliability and availability, reduce unplanned stoppage and increase productivity. This study aims to analyze the influence of statistical reliability on the performance of such a pillar.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, we utilized a multi-method approach to rigorously examine the impact of statistical reliability on the planned maintenance pillar within total productive maintenance. Our methodology combined a detailed statistical analysis of maintenance data with advanced reliability modeling, specifically employing Weibull distribution to analyze failure patterns. Additionally, we integrated qualitative insights gathered through semi-structured interviews with the maintenance team, enhancing the depth of our analysis. The case study, conducted in a fertilizer granulation plant, focused on a critical failure in the granulator pillow block bearing, providing a comprehensive perspective on the practical application of statistical reliability within total productive maintenance; and not presupposing statistical reliability is the solution over more effective methods for the case.

Findings

Our findings reveal that the integration of statistical reliability within the planned maintenance pillar significantly enhances predictive maintenance capabilities, leading to more accurate forecasts of equipment failure modes. The Weibull analysis of the granulator pillow block bearing indicated a mean time between failures of 191.3 days, providing support for optimizing maintenance schedules. Moreover, the qualitative insights from the maintenance team highlighted the operational benefits of our approach, such as improved resource allocation and the need for specialized training. These results demonstrate the practical impact of statistical reliability in preventing unplanned downtimes and informing strategic decisions in maintenance planning, thereby emphasizing the importance of your work in the field.

Originality/value

In terms of the originality and practicality of this study, we emphasize the significant findings that underscore the positive influence of using statistical reliability in conjunction with the planned maintenance pillar. This approach can be instrumental in designing and enhancing component preventive maintenance plans. Furthermore, it can effectively manage equipment failure modes and monitor their useful life, providing valuable insights for professionals in total productive maintenance.
Fun, experience or education? Learning efficiency – virtual reality lesson vs traditional lesson
Authors: Brylska Karolina , Gackowski Tomasz , Kwiatkowska Anita , Dudziak-Kisio Martyna
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of the article was to compare the learning outcomes of the same content in the form of a traditional analogue lesson and in the form of a virtual reality (VR) lesson with the use of head-mounted display (HMD).

Design/methodology/approach

The study included one biology lesson conducted in 4 groups of a dozen people and one biology lesson in VR carried out individually on 75 people. The respondents completed the knowledge test, a questionnaire before and after the class regarding the attitude to new technologies, and feelings after the lesson. The researchers used detailed observation sheets (subjects' behaviour and the dynamics of the lesson). The obtained results were analysed statistically through lesson type (traditional/VR), respondent type (technology enthusiast/non-enthusiast) and question type. The Mann–Whitney U test, t-student and chi-squared (?²) test were used.

Findings

The average of the overall results in the knowledge test was similar in both groups (16 points; ±SD 2.13), slightly better for the analogue group and for the non-enthusiast group. It was found that VR hinders the acquisition of knowledge by tech enthusiasts, who perceive it primarily in the play paradigm. However, it encourages the learning of technology sceptics, who quickly discover a passion for exploring the virtual world. It was clearly indicated, quantitatively and qualitatively, how the technology modalities directly influenced the learning outcomes.

Originality/value

The article offers fresh insights into how students' perceptions of the educational process can be transformed through the integration of VR. The compelling findings and nuanced analysis provide a robust foundation for exploring new frontiers in educational technology.
Optimizing Nd: YAG laser cutting of carbon fiber reinforcing polymer with newly developed resin using Taguchi-GRA approach and machine learning integration
Authors: Desai Ashish Arunrao , Khan Subim
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The investigation aims to improve Nd: YAG laser technology for precision cutting of carbon fiber reinforcing polymers (CFRPs), specifically those containing newly created resin (NDR) from the polyethylene and polyurea group, is the goal of the study. The focus is on showing how Nd: YAG lasers may be used to precisely cut CFRP with NDR materials, emphasizing how useful they are for creating intricate and long-lasting components.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a systematic approach that includes complicated factorial designs, Taguchi L27 orthogonal array trials, Gray relational analysis (GRA) and machine learning predictions. The effects of laser cutting factors on CFRP with NDR geometry are investigated experimentally, with the goal of optimizing the cutting process for greater quality and efficiency. The approach employs data-driven decision-making with GRA, which improves cut quality and manufacturing efficiency while producing high-quality CFRP composites. Integration of machine learning models into the optimization process significantly boosts the precision and cost-effectiveness of laser cutting operations for CFRP materials.

Findings

The work uses Taguchi L27 orthogonal array trials for systematically explore the effects of specified parameters on CFRP cutting. The cutting process is then optimized using GRA, which identifies influential elements and determines the ideal parameter combination. In this paper, initially machining parameters are established at level L3P3C3A2, and the optimal machining parameters are determined to be at levels L3P2C3A3 and L3P2C1A2, based on predictions and experimental results. Furthermore, the study uses machine learning prediction models to continuously update and optimize kerf parameters, resulting in high-quality cuts at a lower cost. Overall, the study presents a holistic method to optimize CFRP cutting processes employing sophisticated techniques such as GRA and machine learning, resulting in better quality and efficiency in manufacturing operations.

Originality/value

The novel concept is in precisely measuring the kerf width and deviation in CFRP samples of NDR using sophisticated imaging techniques like SEM, which improves analysis and precision. The newly produced resin from the polyethylene and polyurea group with carbon fiber offers a more precise and comprehensive understanding of the material's behavior under different cutting settings, which makes it novel for kerf width and kerf deviation in their studies. To optimize laser cutting settings in real time while considering laser machining conditions, the study incorporates material insights into machine learning models.
Revitalizing a community college library: aggressive weeding’s impact of circulation statistics
Authors: Becker Kristen L.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Aggressive weeding in academic libraries is becoming more commonplace as colleges seek to create student-centered environments and space is at a premium. For one community college in the Southwest United States, several factors required the library to proactively weed its collection within three years. At the same time, the library sought to maintain the circulation of its physical books.

Design/methodology/approach

Updating the library’s collection development policy to include robust selection and weeding criteria allowed the library to embark on a revitalization project to remove thousands of outdated or unused items, resulting in a net loss of nearly 32,000 books.

Findings

The loss of more than half of the general collection had an unforeseen consequence – a 70% increase in circulation statistics during the three-year deselection project. The case study's results highlight the need for continual maintenance of academic library collections.

Originality/value

The case study is original and not published elsewhere.
Research on electron beam irradiation in the multiscale structure of starch and its related applications: A review
Authors: Liang Danyang , Liang Wei , Luo Haiyu , Liu Qing , Temirlan Khamiddolov , Li Wenhao
Published: September 2024

Electron beam irradiation (EBI), as a typical “green” emerging technology, can effectively alter the functional properties of starch by influencing its microstructure. This alteration enables starch to meet the current demands of consumers and the market for “health food.” This paper reviews studies on modifying various starches using EBI and describes the changes in microstructure, physicochemical properties, and functional properties induced by this method. Additionally, the effects of EBI on starch‐containing food products are discussed, along with issues to be addressed and research gaps in the synergistic treatment of modified starch. It is noted that the source, irradiation dose, and irradiation time all influence the effectiveness of starch modification. Given the characteristics of EBI technology, integrating physical, chemical, and biological modification methods can optimize the modification process and enhance efficiency. This technology can potentially diversify modified starch varieties and expand their applications. Furthermore, there remains significant research potential in producing modified starch using EBI technology and applying it to the food industry.
A comprehensive review on freeze‐induced deterioration of frozen egg yolks: Freezing behaviors, gelation mechanisms, and control techniques
Authors: Chi Yujie , Ma Zihong , Wang Ruihong , Chi Yuan
Published: September 2024

Over the years, the production of eggs has increased tremendously, with an estimated global egg production of 9.7 billion by 2050. Further processing of shell eggs to egg products has gained growing popularity. Liquid egg yolks, an innovative form of egg replacement, still suffer from short shelf‐life issues, and freezing has been applied to maintain freshness. An undesirable phenomenon called “gelation” was found during the production of frozen egg yolks, which has attracted numerous scholars to study its mechanism and quality control methods. Therefore, we comprehensively reviewed the history of the studies on frozen egg yolks, including the production procedure, the fundamentals of freezing, the gelation mechanism, the factors affecting gelation behaviors, and the techniques to control the gelation behaviors of frozen egg yolks. Reporting the production procedure and freezing fundamentals of frozen egg yolks will give readers a better understanding of the science and technological aspects of frozen egg yolks. Furthermore, a comprehensive summary of the mechanism of egg yolk gel formation induced by freeze–thawing and relevant control techniques will provide insights to researchers and manufacturers in the field of frozen egg processing.
Managing the microbiological safety of tilapia from farm to consumer
Authors: Ndraha Nodali , Lin Hung‐Yun , Hsiao Hsin‐I , Lin Han‐Jia
Published: September 2024

Tilapia stands out as one of the most extensively farmed and consumed fish species globally, valued for its ease of preparation and relative affordability. Although tilapia is a valuable protein source, it can also function as a vector for foodborne pathogens. This literature review reveals that tilapia could carry a variety of contamination with various foodborne pathogens, including Plesiomonas shigelloides, diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Salmonella Weltevreden, Salmonella enterica, Shigella, Staphylococcus aureus, Campylobacter jejuni, Clostridium botulinum, and Listeria monocytogenes. Although guidelines from entities, such as the Global Seafood Alliance, Aquaculture Stewardship Council, and International Organization for Standardization, have been established to ensure the microbiological safety of tilapia, the unique challenges posed by pathogens in tilapia farming call for a more nuanced and targeted approach. Recognizing that contaminants could emerge at various stages of the tilapia supply chain, there is a crucial need for enhanced detection and monitoring of pathogens associated with this fish and its culturing environment. Additionally, it is essential to acknowledge the potential impact of climate change on the safety of tilapia, which may elevate the prevalence and contamination levels of pathogens in this fish. Proactive measures are essential to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change on tilapia production, ensuring the sustainability and safety of this seafood product for both present and future generations.
Microfiltered red‐purple pitaya concentrate: A promising multifunctional food‐derived colorant
Authors: de Sousa Silva Fernanda Tayla , da Rocha Viana José Diogo , Gomes da Silva Maria de Fátima , Silvestre da Silva Gisele , Florindo Guedes Maria Izabel , de Lima Rebouças Emanuela , Apolinário da Silva Ana Paula , Coutinho Marnielle Rodrigues , Wlisses da Silva Antônio , Rodrigues de Souza Arthur Claudio , Zocolo Guilherme Juliao , Herbster Moura Carlos Farley , Dionísio Ana Paula
Published: September 2024

Red pitaya fruit has become a source of natural colorant, because it is rich in betalains, a pigment that imparts a red‐purple color that interests the food and cosmetics industries. This fruit also possesses high nutritional value, with a range of bioactive compounds known to confer potential health benefits and prevent chronic diseases, such as diabetes, which makes it useful for use as pharmaceutical agents and dietary supplements. In order to improve its technological and biological effects, a concentration will be required. Thus, the microfiltration, followed by vacuum concentration, can be an interesting strategy for this purpose. This study aimed to explore tangential microfiltration to produce microfiltered material, which is an important step to obtain the microfiltered red‐purple pitaya concentrate. Therefore, physicochemical and chemical characterization (including 1H NMR analysis) and biological properties (toxicity and diabetes) of this concentrate were assessed, using adult zebrafish as a model. The results show that microfiltration was carried out efficiently, with an average consumption of 95.75 ± 3.13 and 74.12 ± 3.58 kW h m−3, varying according to the material used (“unpeeled pitaya pulp” or “pitaya pulp with peel,” respectively). The in vivo tests indicated non‐toxicity and hypoglycemic effect of the concentrate, since the blood glucose levels were significantly lower in the zebrafish groups treated with this concentrate in comparison with that of control group. Thus, this study suggests the potential of microfiltered red‐purple pitaya concentrate as a promising multifunctional food‐derived colorant, exhibiting beneficial biological effects far beyond its attractive color.

Practical Application

Hylocereus polyrhizus (F.A.C. Weber) Britton & Rose has attracted attention as a potential source of natural colorants because of its red‐purple skin and flesh color. In addition, this fruit has a range of bioactive compounds, which make it a valuable resource for providing potential health benefits and preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes. In this paper, the microfiltered red‐purple pitaya concentrate showed beneficial biological effects far beyond its attractive color. Thus, this product can be considered a promising multifunctional food‐derived colorant to use in the food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetics industries.
North American considerations, strategies, and practices in reducing the sodium content in processed foods
Authors: Trumbo Paula R. , Glass Kathleen A. , Lee Soo‐Yeun , Moshfegh Alanna , Welling Paul A. , Zecca Patricia
Published: September 2024

Most Americans exceed the recommended limit for sodium in their diet, a risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Efforts have been made by the food industry and government agencies to reduce the sodium content in foods and encourage the consumption of lower sodium diets. Such efforts, however, are not successful in improving public health when consumers do not accept and consume lower sodium foods. This review article provides an overview of the strategies that have been used by the US food industry to reduce and replace sodium in consumer packaged goods, as well as future sodium reduction strategies and approaches for replacing sodium with potassium salts. Challenges in consumer acceptance regarding the reduction of sodium in foods are also discussed. Because of the widespread consumption of numerous sodium‐containing consumer packaged goods, implementing future strategies in various aspects of salt reduction and potassium replacement in foods should have a profound impact on the health of Americans.

Practical Application

New information is provided herein as it discusses the most current and collective perspectives of major food industry successes and challenges, as well as government strategies to decrease sodium intake. The information provided also addresses future strategies for reducing sodium content in foods, increasing potassium intake, and consumer acceptance of lower sodium foods.
Antifungal effect of cinnamon essential oil against Penicillium oxalicum on rice noodles
Authors: Liu Qun , Xiong Xiaodi , Lin Hua , Zhang Lixiang , Chen Naizhong , Liu Xing , Liu Tao
Published: September 2024

Plant essential oils have been extensively investigated for their application in food industry due to their broad antimicrobial spectrum and safety. However, rare studies investigated their application in decontaminating rice noodles from fungal contamination. In this study, the cinnamon essential oil was screened out among 12 species of plant essential oils, and its antifungal activity against Penicillium oxalicum isolated from rice noodles was investigated. Our study revealed that cinnamon essential oil inhibited the spore germination in a concentration‐dependent manner, and a dosage of 0.025% (v/v) could entirely disable the spore germination. The disruption of the fungal plasma membrane was evidenced by the change of plasma membrane permeability and the leakage of cellular components. The cinnamon essential oil in vapor phase (0.00625% [v/v]) could totally inhibit the growth of fungi inoculated on rice noodles. In addition to the potential application in inactivating fungi germination on rice noodles, this study also demonstrated the feasibility of cinnamon essential as an environmental disinfectant. This study is the first report that cinnamon essential oil has been studied for decontaminating rice noodles from fungal contamination with P. oxalicum, which not only broadens the application field of plant essential oil but also provides an alternative approach for rice noodle preservation.
Financial constraints and sustainability in bioeconomy firms
Authors: Miranda‐García Marta , Segovia‐Vargas María‐Jesús
Published: September 2024

In the current scenario, sustainability has become vitally important. This paper focuses on bioeconomy as it links the economic systems and sustainable development, promoting innovative and environmentally friendly solutions. The bioeconomy firms need financial resources that play a critical role in their ordinary activities and in the activities that contribute to sustainability. The relationship between firms' ESG (environmental, social and governance) factors and their financing decisions has received little attention. Therefore, the objective of this article was to analyse the relationship between financial constraints and ESG performance focusing on bioeconomy firms. To carry out the analyses we have used 227 European bioeconomy firms developing three machine learning models. The main findings highlight the importance of the profitability (return on equity—ROE and return on assets—ROA) and the indebtedness in characterising firms' constraints, and the impact of non‐disclosure of ESG results. The study emphasises the economic importance of ESG practices in enhancing companies' financial conditions and access to capital, by using their corporate strategy and management: non‐disclosure of ESG information is related to an increase in funding constraints for listed bio companies. Thus, improving both economic and ESG performance can enhance access to capital, guiding business decisions.
miR‐30c‐5p inhibits esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression by repressing the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Shi Haochun , Pan Binyang , Liang Jiaqi , Cai Benjie , Wu Gujie , Bian Yunyi , Shan Guangyao , Ren Shencheng , Huang Yiwei , Guo Weigang
Published: September 2024

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors, with high incidence and poor prognosis. Revealing mechanisms of ESCC progression and developing new therapeutic targets remains crucial. The aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular mechanism of miR‐30c‐5p in regulating the malignant progression of ESCC.

Methods

TCGA, GEO, and other datasets were used to analyze the differential expression of miR‐30c‐5p in ESCC and adjacent tissues, and its impact on prognosis. Then the effects of miR‐30c‐5p on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of TE‐1 and Eca9706 cells were investigated through proliferation experiments, transwell and wounding healing assays. The regulatory mechanism of miR‐30c‐5p on the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and its interaction in cancer progression were investigated through Western blots, dual‐luciferase reporter assay, and rescue experiments.

Results

miR‐30c‐5p was significantly downregulated in ESCC tissue and represented a poor prognosis. miR‐30c‐5p mimic significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of ESCC, while miR‐30c‐5p inhibitor significantly promoted tumor cell progression. Through bioinformatic analysis and experimental results, miR‐30c‐5p interacted directly with PIK3CA mRNA and inhibited subsequent signaling pathway activation. PIK3CA activator could eliminate the inhibitory effects of miR‐30c‐5p mimic on the progression of ESCC, while PIK3CA inhibitors could rescue the promoting effect of miR‐30c‐5p inhibitor group cells.

Conclusions

In summary, we found that miR‐30c‐5p inhibited the proliferation, invasion and migration of ESCC by inhibiting PI3K/AKT signaling pathway for the first time, and this study is expected to provide a novel insight and potential therapeutic target for managing ESCC.
Bank audit committee financial expertise and timely loan loss recognition
Authors: Choi Diana
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effects of audit committee financial expertise on the timeliness of banks' loan loss provisions. I employ two regulatory shocks that mandated audit committee expertise—the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act in 1991 (FDICIA) and a modified listing standard for NYSE and NASDAQ firms in 1999—as quasi‐exogenous settings to investigate the effects of audit committee financial expertise on the timeliness of loan loss provisioning. Using a difference‐in‐differences research design, I find that the timeliness of loan loss provisions increases with audit committee financial expertise both for the FDICIA treatment group, which had larger banks than the control group, and for the NYSE and NASDAQ exchange treatment group, which had smaller banks than the control group. Further, I find that the results are stronger for banks that have lower regulatory scrutiny, are audited by Big 4 auditors, and do not have staggered boards. Finally, I find that audit committee financial expertise decreases discretionary loan loss provisions and financial restatements. Overall, these findings suggest the importance of audit committee financial expertise in loan‐related matters, which is particularly relevant in the context of the recent Current Expected Credit Losses implementation.
A new materialist (re)configuring of sexuality, age and the discourse of ‘childhood innocence’
Authors: Ingram Toni , Allen Louisa
Published: September 2024

This article explores the potential of feminist new materialisms for rethinking enduring debates that cohere around children, sexuality, age and ‘childhood innocence’. A new materialist ontology of sexuality and Karen Barad's concept of spacetimemattering are employed to conceptualise sexuality as an emergent becoming of relational material‐discursive forces. Within this paradigm, mobilisation of arguments about ‘sexual innocence and readiness’ become a matter of entanglement of contingent ‘things’, ‘spaces’ and ‘ideas’, that includes young people's own sexual knowledge. We consider how this reorientation shifts the contours, debates and possibilities of sexuality education beyond restrictive ‘age‐appropriate’ narratives.
You Shall Not Pass: The Pacific Oxygen Minimum Zone Creates a Boundary to Shortfin Mako Shark Distribution in the Eastern North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Byrne Michael E. , Dewar Heidi , Vaudo Jeremy J. , Wetherbee Bradley M. , Shivji Mahmood S.
Published: September 2024

Aim

Shoaling of large oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) that form along eastern margins of the world's oceans can reduce habitat availability for some pelagic fishes. Our aim was to test the hypothesis that habitat compression caused by shoaling of the Pacific OMZ in tropical regions creates a boundary to the southern distribution of shortfin mako sharks (Isurus oxyrinchus) in the Eastern North Pacific Ocean.

Location

Eastern North Pacific and Western North Atlantic oceans.

Methods

We compared environmental conditions between areas used by satellite‐tagged mako sharks in the Eastern North Pacific, encompassing the world's largest OMZ, to those used in the Western North Atlantic where no OMZ is present. In the Pacific we quantified the effects of temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) on depth use and tested if sharks spent less time in areas with strong habitat compression over the OMZ than expected by chance.

Results

The southern distribution of sharks in the Pacific corresponded with the apex of OMZ shoaling in the North Equatorial Current. Sharks in the Atlantic occupied areas with warm surface temperatures (≥ 26°C) more often than the Pacific, and waters with these temperatures in the Atlantic had greater DO at depth. Sharks in the Pacific reduced time near the surface in warm temperatures and consistently avoided depths with low DO and spent less time in areas with strong habitat compression than expected by chance.

Main Conclusions

The combination of warm surface temperatures and shoaling of the OMZ creates a soft boundary to mako shark movements in the Eastern North Pacific Ocean. The expected expansion of OMZs due to climate change could have considerable impact on future distribution of mako sharks and other pelagic fish. As such, development of species distribution models to predict the effects of climate change on pelagic fish distributions should incorporate oxygen availability.
Automating insulin delivery through pump and continuous glucose monitoring connectivity: Maximizing opportunities to improve outcomes
Authors: Anandhakrishnan Ananthi , Hussain Sufyan
Published: September 2024

The development of automated insulin delivery (AID) systems, which connect continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems with algorithmic insulin delivery from an insulin pump (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion, [CSII]), has led to improved glycaemia and quality of life benefits in those with insulin‐treated diabetes. This review summarizes the benefits gained by the connectivity between insulin pumps and CGM devices. It details the technical requirements and advances that have enabled this, and highlights the clinical and user benefits of such systems. Clinical trials and real‐world outcomes from the use of AID systems in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) will be the focus of this article; outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and other diabetes subtypes will also be discussed. We also detail the limitations of current technological approaches for connectivity between insulin pumps and CGM devices. While recognizing the barriers, we discuss opportunities for the future.
Technical Quality of Root Fillings Performed by Undergraduate Dental Students in Single‐Canal Teeth: A 10‐Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Bezerra Vinicius Grangeiro Leite , Ferreira André de Lima , Fernandes Viton Dyrk Guimarães , Teixeira‐da‐Silva Douglas , Paranhos Luiz Renato , Matos Felipe de Souza
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study assessed the radiographic technical quality of root fillings in single‐canal teeth performed over a decade (June 2013 to June 2023) by undergraduate dental students of the Federal University of Campina Grande.

Methods

All teeth underwent chemomechanical preparation using Gates‐Glidden drills and hand instrumentation with stainless steel files up to 1 mm short of the root apex. Apical expansion was performed with up to two or three instruments above the initial anatomical apical diameter. The canal was filled in the absence of signs and symptoms of infection using gutta‐percha cones and Sealer 26 or MTA Fillapex. A post‐filling radiograph was routinely taken to assess the quality of root filling and coronal restoration. An experienced researcher trained and calibrated an examiner to evaluate post‐operative periapical radiographs considering root‐filling length, lateral adaptation and taper using ImageJ 1.52q software. Root filling was satisfactory when reaching acceptable classifications for the three parameters. The chi‐squared test compared tooth type, dental arch and pulpal diagnosis at a 5% significance level.

Results

The study assessed 124 canals, showing 90 (72.6%) satisfactory root fillings. The sub‐analysis of individual parameters demonstrated that 105 (84.7%) root fillings had acceptable length, 113 (91.1%) adapted well to lateral canal walls, and 109 (87.9%) had proper taper. Most cases occurred in maxillary teeth (n = 99), pulp necrosis was the most frequent pulpal diagnosis (n = 89), and root‐filling quality showed no association with tooth type, dental arch or pulpal diagnosis.

Conclusion

The technical quality of root fillings in single‐canal teeth treated by dental students was predominantly satisfactory.
Population Genomics of the Blue Shark, Prionace glauca, Reveals Different Populations in the Mediterranean Sea and the Northeast Atlantic
Authors: Leone Agostino , Arnaud‐Haond Sophie , Babbucci Massimiliano , Bargelloni Luca , Coscia Ilaria , Damalas Dimitrios , Delord Chrystelle , Franch Rafaella , Garibaldi Fulvio , Macias David , Mariani Stefano , Martinsohn Jann , Megalofonou Persefoni , Micarelli Primo , Nikolic Natacha , Prodöhl Paulo A. , Sperone Emilio , Stagioni Marco , Zanzi Antonella , Cariani Alessia , Tinti Fausto
Published: September 2024

Populations of marine top predators have been sharply declining during the past decades, and one‐third of chondrichthyans are currently threatened with extinction. Sustainable management measures and conservation plans of large pelagic sharks require knowledge on population genetic differentiation and demographic connectivity. Here, we present the case of the Mediterranean blue shark (Prionace glauca, L. 1758), commonly found as bycatch in longline fisheries and classified by the IUCN as critically endangered. The management of this species suffers from a scarcity of data about population structure and connectivity within the Mediterranean Sea and between this basin and the adjacent Northeast Atlantic. Here, we assessed the genetic diversity and spatial structure of blue shark from different areas of the Mediterranean Sea and the Northeast Atlantic through genome scan analyses. Pairwise genetic differentiation estimates (FST) on 203 specimens genotyped at 14,713 ddRAD‐derived SNPs revealed subtle, yet significant, genetic differences within the Mediterranean sampling locations, and between the Mediterranean Sea and the Northeast Atlantic Ocean. Genetic differentiation suggests some degree of demographic independence between the Western and Eastern Mediterranean blue shark populations. Furthermore, results show limited genetic connectivity between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic basins, supporting the hypothesis of two distinct populations of blue shark separated by the Strait of Gibraltar. Although reproductive interactions may be limited, the faint genetic signal of differentiation suggests a recent common history between these units. Therefore, Mediterranean blue sharks may function akin to a metapopulation relying upon local demographic processes and connectivity dynamics, whereby the limited contemporary gene flow replenishment from the Atlantic may interplay with currently poorly regulated commercial catches and large‐scale ecosystem changes. Altogether, these results emphasise the need for revising management delineations applied to these critically endangered sharks.
An efficient branch‐and‐bound algorithm to optimize a function over a nondominated set
Authors: Zerfa Lamia , Chergui Mohamed El‐Amine
Published: September 2024

This study introduces an algorithm based on the branch‐and‐bound approach for optimizing a main function over the nondominated set of a multiobjective integer programming (MOIP) problem. Initially, is optimized within the feasible solution set of the MOIP. A new efficiency test combining Benson's test with is then developed using an auxiliary optimization program. This program provides both an efficient solution and a lower bound for . Moreover, this solution is the best one for when compared to its alternative solutions for MOIP. Subsequently, efficient cuts are incorporated into the criteria space to eliminate dominated points. Furthermore, the algorithm is tailored to handle scenarios where the objective involves optimizing a linear combination of multiobjective programming criteria over the nondominated set. The study concludes by showcasing the superior performance of the proposed two algorithms through comparison with existing approaches on well‐known problem instances from the literature.
Problems in screening for gestational diabetes mellitus by measurement of casual blood glucose levels at 24–28 gestational weeks
Authors: Tomimoto Masako , Tanimura Kenji , Masuko Naohisa , Uchida Akiko , Imafuku Hitomi , Deguchi Masashi , Yamamoto Akane , Hirota Yushi , Ogawa Wataru , Terai Yoshito
Published: September 2024

Aims/Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the problems in screening for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) by casual blood glucose (CBG) measurements at 24–28 gestational weeks.

Materials and Methods

Overall, 763 pregnant women who underwent the 50‐g glucose challenge test (GCT) at 24–28 gestational weeks were enrolled. The preload blood glucose (0‐h BG) level of 50‐g GCT was considered as CBG.

Results

A total of 240 women with BG levels at 1‐h after loading (1‐h BG) on 50‐g GCT ≥140 mg/dL underwent the 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test, and 98 (40.8%) were diagnosed with GDM. Of the 99 women with GDM, 71 (71.7%) had 0‐h BG on 50‐g GCT <100 mg/dL.

Conclusions

This study, where pregnant women underwent both CBG and 50‐g GCT simultaneously, showed that when CBG at 24–28 gestational weeks ≥100 mg/dL alone was used for screening GDM, many pregnant women with GDM were overlooked.
Multicenter, open label, randomized controlled superiority trial for availability to reduce nocturnal urination frequency: The TOP‐STAR study
Authors: Nakajima Hanako , Okada Hiroshi , Kogure Akinori , Osaka Takafumi , Tsutsumi Takeshi , Onishi Masayoshi , Mitsuhashi Kazuteru , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Mogami Shinichi , Kitamura Akane , Ishii Michiyo , Nakamura Naoto , Kishi Akio , Eiko Sato , Hamaguchi Masahide , Fukui Michiaki
Published: September 2024

Aim

Nocturia impairs the quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Although sodium glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) such as tofogliflozin increase urine volume, their impact on nocturia, in conjunction with dietary salt restriction, is less clear.

Materials and Methods

This multicenter, open‐label, randomized, parallel‐group trial included 80 subjects with type 2 diabetes and nocturia. The patients were divided into two groups: one receiving tofogliflozin, the shortest half‐life, without salt restriction, and the other receiving both tofogliflozin and dietary salt restriction. The primary endpoint was nocturia frequency at 12 weeks. The secondary outcomes included changes in daytime urination frequency, urine volume, and home blood pressure.

Results

At 12 weeks, there were no significant differences in nocturia changes between both groups. Nocturia frequency did not change in the tofogliflozin without salt restriction group from 1.5 ± 0.8 to 1.3 ± 1.1 times per night (P = 0.297), and significantly decreased from 1.6 ± 1.0 to 1.3 ± 0.7 times per night in the tofogliflozin and dietary salt restriction group (P = 0.049). There was a trend toward increased urine volume and frequency during the daytime in the group with salt restriction, indicating a time‐shift effect of the short half‐life tofogliflozin and salt restriction on urinary time.

Conclusions

The frequency of nocturia after tofogliflozin did not increase. Tofogliflozin reduced nocturia when combined with salt restriction. Furthermore, daytime urine volume and frequency showed an increasing trend, suggesting a shift in urine production to daytime hours due to the short half‐life of tofogliflozin. Dietary modifications can enhance the therapeutic benefits of tofogliflozin in managing nocturia in people with type 2 diabetes.
Barriers and facilitators to faecal immunochemical testing in symptomatic populations: A rapid systematic scoping review and gap analysis
Authors: Hamer‐Kiwacz Sienna , Berntsson Hannah , Galloway George , Tran Ann‐Marie , Tan Jia Yun , Hind Daniel , Kurien Matthew
Published: September 2024

Aim

Faecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is used to triage people with signs or symptoms of a colorectal cancer (CRC). Recent guidelines have recommended further research to improve access, uptake and return of FIT. This systematic scoping review aims to understand the barriers and facilitators to FIT testing in symptomatic patients.

Method

Qualitative, quantitative and mixed‐methods studies published after September 2013 were included. MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO databases were searched to identify publications examining barriers and facilitators to FIT. Initially, the data underwent thematic analysis, and subsequently, factors were aligned to components of the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour model. All outcomes are presented in adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines.

Results

One thousand two hundred thirty‐two papers were identified; 11 met the inclusion criteria. Barriers and facilitators were identified at the patient (e.g., knowledge), provider (e.g., general practitioner awareness) and service level (e.g., method of providing FIT kits). Factors were categorised into the subcomponents of the model: psychological capability (e.g., lack of FIT knowledge), reflective motivation (e.g., beliefs regarding FIT sampling and faeces being unhygienic) and automatic motivation (e.g., embarrassment, scary, anxiety provoking). Gaps in knowledge emerged in three domains: (1) patient experience, (2) FIT pathway and (3) healthcare professionals experience of FIT.

Conclusion

This systematic scoping review provides a summary of the literature on FIT uptake, and identified factors across multiple levels and components. To increase adherence to FIT completion within primary care, a multifaceted theory and evidence‐based approach is needed to underpin future behavioural science interventions.
Exploring context and culture in clinical reasoning medical education: A qualitative exploratory study
Authors: Cameron Erin , Fleming Holly , Mose Rylee , Monteiro Sandra
Published: September 2024

Background

Clinical reasoning processes are complex and interwoven with culture and context. While these relationships have been explored to understand the outcomes of clinical reasoning, there has been little exploration of how to integrate these relationships when teaching and learning clinical reasoning.

Methods

Using semi‐structured interviews, this research explored the role of context and culture in clinical reasoning medical education. Participants were clinical teachers recruited from across Northern Ontario. The data were analysed independently by two reviewers using both thematic analysis and critical discourse analysis, and peer reviewed by a third researcher.

Results

The role of context and culture is inherent to the personal, professional and pedagogical aspects of clinical reasoning, especially when teaching about the complexities of Northern Ontario. The major themes that came through were: 1) teaching and learning clinical reasoning needs reflexivity, 2) developing clinical reasoning skills needs time and 3) clinical reasoning pedagogy should acknowledge and encompass practice variation and patient diversity.

Conclusion

Teaching clinical reasoning in Northern Ontario involves being aware of the complexities that are inherent in interacting with patients and communities. Through personal, professional and pedagogical models, the students and teachers can address the complexities of cultural and contextual clinical reasoning.
Monitoring of torrent control structures: An integrated approach from first‐level inspections to maintenance strategies
Authors: Cislaghi Alessio , Morlotti Emanuele , Cucchiaro Sara , Morando Paola , Bischetti Gian Battista
Published: September 2024

Torrent control structures are essential countermeasures against potential losses from flood to debris flow events. The durability of these structures hinges upon several factors, including the structure's design, construction materials and ongoing maintenance as well as the physical pressures they are under. Over the past half‐century, a decline in investments allocated to routine maintenance activities, coupled with the natural degradation of these structures, has contributed to a reduction in their protective capacity. In this context, monitoring and maintaining existing structures are essential actions. This study presents a comprehensive proposal for a routine inspection process adopted for torrent control structures along four rivers in North Italy. The results of the first‐level inspections consist of a dataset encompassing missing details (e.g., width, length, height, construction age, materials used), present condition of structures and functionality. The further step is to predict the vulnerability of the inspected torrent control structures; so, the Markov chain model is implemented for forecasting their service life, also in function of different maintenance strategies. Furthermore, this study serves as a valuable resource for reinforcing the role of the first‐level inspections and ongoing monitoring, which is essential for planning future investments in watershed management, especially in the routine maintenance of torrent control structures.