bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a probabilistic compaction model for the Northern Carnarvon Basin using Bayesian inference
Authors: Makuluni Patrick , Hauser Juerg , Clark Stuart
Published: November 2024

Exhumation affects sedimentary basin evolution by influencing structural, pressure and temperature dynamics, thereby impacting energy resource formation. Compaction‐based methods are widely used to quantify exhumation, utilising sonic and porosity data to track sediment uplift from its maximum burial depths. However, uncertainties arise from applying empirical compaction models developed for specific geological regions, highlighting the need for region‐specific models. Even such region‐specific models contain uncertainties, which can compromise exhumation estimates. We, therefore, develop a probabilistic compaction model for the Northwest Shelf Basins using sonic data from normally compacted and unexhumed shales from the Northern Carnarvon Basin (NCB). The model's robustness is estimated using MCMC, and uncertainty propagation analysis is employed to assess the impact of model uncertainty on the model's predictive applications. The model shows exponential porosity reduction with depth, demonstrating rapid compaction from the surface to ca. 2 km and slower compaction thereafter. The model is then applied to interpret new datasets from the Canning, Gippsland and NCB regions. The results reveal that while some parts of the NCB exhibit normal compaction without exhumation, others were significantly exhumed. Conversely, Canning and Gippsland Basin data indicate signs of significant exhumation, as suggested by previous studies, thereby confirming the model's effectiveness outside the Northwest Shelf. Since the model could not explain data from exhumed regions, we inferred new models incorporating “exhumation” parameters to interpret the complex compaction histories of these areas, and the best‐fitting models were selected using the Bayes Factor method. Uncertainty analysis revealed that the impacts of model uncertainty on exhumation estimates are consistent across wide depth ranges. Our findings highlight the need to refine compaction models for better predictive reliability and informed resource exploration in sedimentary basins.
Is It Safe to Cauterise Both Sides of the Nasal Septum at the Same Time in Children With Nosebleeds?
Authors: Drake Ivy , Fountain Hazel , Kubba Haytham
Published: November 2024

Objective

It is often recommended that, in children with bilateral epistaxis, only one side of the nasal septum should be cauterised at a time in order to reduce the risk of septal perforation. This advice may have been reasonable when hot wire electrocautery was in common use. The risk of septal perforation after silver nitrate cautery is unknown but probably low.

Methods

Retrospective case note review of children attending the nurse‐led epistaxis clinic between 2019 and 2022.

Results

Nine hundred and twenty children were seen in the nurse‐led clinic between January 2019 and December 2022. Six hundred and one children (79%) underwent nasal cautery. Simultaneous bilateral nasal cautery was carried out in 176 (29%) children. Our follow up period ranged between 303 and 1744 days, with a median of 809.5 days. No child presented to emergency or ENT services with septal perforation or any other complication of simultaneous bilateral nasal cautery.

Conclusion

To the author's knowledge, this is the largest study assessing the safety of simultaneous bilateral nasal cautery with silver nitrate in children. No adverse results have been found after cauterising both sides of the septum at the same sitting, and doing so potentially saves time and money for patients and the health service.
Hunting for Sustainability: Indigenous Stewardship in the Cofán Territory of Zábalo
Authors: Esbach Michael S. , Urgilés‐Verdugo Carlos , Townsend Wendy R. , Yiyoguaje Carlos
Published: November 2024

Indigenous lands are increasingly recognized for their critical role in biodiversity conservation. However, concerns persist about the sustainability of hunting practices within these territories. This study investigates the long‐term impact of Indigenous hunting practices on wildlife populations in the Cofán territory of Zábalo, Ecuador. We employed line transect surveys to estimate wildlife densities over three periods (2001–2003, 2006–2009, and 2018), focusing on 16 species that are integral to local livelihoods and subject to community management. Our results indicate generally stable or increasing populations for most species, particularly in nonhunted areas, where spatial restrictions are enforced. The Cofán's ability to sustainably manage relations between humans and wildlife is largely attributable to their adaptive management system, which includes species‐specific regulations and spatial zoning, and is realized through community decision‐making, knowledge sharing, and an ethos of care. These findings demonstrate that Indigenous stewardship can effectively sustain biodiversity in complex biocultural systems. The study underscores the importance of integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific approaches to achieve long‐term conservation goals.
Long‐term data reveals increase in vehicle collisions of endangered birds in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuya , Naito‐Liederbach Annegret Moto , Sadakuni Toshio , Morii Yuta
Published: November 2024

Wildlife‐vehicle collisions have significant consequences for both humans and animals, including injuries, deaths, and vehicle damage. Therefore, analysis of accident data is important for planning countermeasures and appropriate wildlife management. In this research field, roadkill incidents have been extensively studied in many taxa, while railway accidents have received less attention despite their obvious impact on wildlife. Here we applied a Bayesian state‐space model to 31 years of collision data, both on railways and on roads, collected by the Ministry of the Environment in Hokkaido prefecture, Japan, to reveal the spatiotemporal dynamics of accidents for white‐tailed eagles, Steller's sea eagles, and red‐crowned cranes, for which over hundred accidents were reported in the data. Our analysis suggested that the mean annual number of individuals collected per collision site across Hokkaido increased 47,377‐fold in the white‐tailed eagle, 40,277‐fold in the Steller's sea eagle, and 50,584‐fold in the red‐crowned crane between 1991 and 2021. There have been concerns about the impact of traffic accidents on the population dynamics of these endangered birds, but no formal analyses have been conducted. Our analysis showed numerically that the negative impact has been increasing annually. These results suggest that long‐term data accumulation over large spatial scales allows us to understand the dynamics of accidents and predict potential factors underlying collision risks.
Negotiating Urban Development in Africa: Transnational Communities of Embedded Support in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Croese Sylvia , Kombe Wilbard
Published: November 2024

This article brings together recent debates in urban and development studies to illuminate the understudied politics and compromise involved in the rollout of globally funded urban development in Africa. The argument presented builds on a detailed analysis of the World Bank's urban development portfolio in Tanzania, with a specific focus on the Dar es Salaam Metro‐politan Development Project, to draw attention to the disjuncture between rising urban investments and persistently low levels of city‐level autonomy in urban Africa. Challenging views of cities as either active agents or mere subjects of urban development, the article focuses on the negotiation strategies that have been employed by donors and recipients alike to enable the continued disbursement of urban development funding. The pragmatic and non‐confrontational nature of these negotiation strategies is illustrated by highlighting the role of a transnational community of urban development professionals who contribute to embedding local support for policy reform from within. It is argued that while this community has been key to enabling the massive growth of the World Bank's urban lending portfolio in Tanzania, it has also contributed to undermining effective local government reform, thereby reshaping conventionally assumed pathways and understandings of urban agency and development.
Enhancing monitoring to promote early detection and eradication of invasive species
Authors: Zhu Gengping , Osorio-Olvera Luis , Pfeiffer Vera , Gutierrez Illan Javier , Neven Lisa G. , Crowder David W.
Published: November 2024

Ecological niche models are often used to predict the distribution of invasive species before or after they have been detected in new regions. Such models should also be used to guide surveys to promote the early detection and eradication of invasive species. Here we propose a practical framework that seamlessly uses ecological niche models to develop sampling routes that promote detection of invasive species. Our framework uses habitat suitability predictions and occurrence data on incursion populations to generate potential survey sites, which are then prioritized for sampling based on their size and suitability. The generated survey route is then displayed on an open street map platform. Our framework was developed into the ‘enmRoute' R package and a user‐friendly website to facilitate its application, and we validated our framework with a case study. We show that integrating ecological niche models with human transport routes promotes identification of survey sites that are predicted to collect more individuals and have a greater potential for species detection than traditional sampling approaches. Our framework may help industries, invasion biologists, and regulators develop economical and efficient survey programs for invasive pest monitoring that make eradication programs more attainable.
Expert level of detection of interictal discharges with a deep neural network
Authors: Tjepkema‐Cloostermans Marleen C. , Tannemaat Martijn R. , Wieske Luuk , van Rootselaar Anne‐Fleur , Stunnenberg Bas C. , Keijzer Hanneke M. , Koelman Johannes H. T. M. , Tromp Selma C. , Dunca Ioana , van der Star Baukje J. , de Koning Myrthe E. , van Putten Michel J. A. M.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Deep learning methods have shown potential in automating the detection of interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) in electroencephalography (EEG). We compared IED detection using our previously trained deep neural network with a group of experts to assess its potential applicability.

Methods

First, we performed clinical validation on an internal data set. Seven experts reviewed all EEG studies. Performance agreement between experts and the network was compared at both the EEG and IED levels. All EEG recordings were also processed with Persyst. Subsequently, we performed external validation, with data from four centers, using a hybrid approach, where detections by the deep neural network were reviewed by an expert. In case of disagreement with the original report, the EEG recording was annotated independently by five experts.

Results

For internal validation we included 22 EEG studies with IEDs and 28 EEG studies from controls. At the EEG level, our network showed performance similar to that of the experts. For individual IED detection, the sensitivities between experts ranged from 20.7%–86.4%, whereas the sensitivity of our network was 82.5% (confidence interval [CI]: 77.7%–87.4%) at 99% specificity and a false detection rate (FDR) of <.2/min, outperforming Persyst, with 64.6% sensitivity (CI: 61.4%–67.9%) at 98% specificity. External validation in 174 EEG studies demonstrated that all 85 EEG recordings classified as normal in the original report were classified correctly, with an FDR of .10/min. Of the 89 EEG studies with IEDs according to the report, 56 were correctly classified (Cohen's κ = .62). Visual analysis of the remaining 33 EEG recordings showed high interobserver variability among the five experts (Fleiss’ κ = .13).

Significance

Our deep neural network detects IEDs on par with clinical experts. The external validation in a hybrid approach showed substantial agreement with the original report. Disagreement was due mainly to high interobserver variability. Our deep neural network may support visual EEG analysis and assist in diagnostics, particularly when human resources are limited.
Level 4 seizure monitoring unit admissions are associated with reduced long‐term health care costs
Authors: Josephson Colin B. , Lethebe Brendan Cord , Pang Elaine , Clement Fiona , Jetté Nathalie , Szostakiwskyj Jessie Hart , McLeod Graham , Sinaei Farnaz , Delgado‐Garcia Guillermo , Wiebe Samuel ,   the Calgary Comprehensive Epilepsy Program Collaborators
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study was undertaken to determine whether admission to dedicated seizure monitoring units (SMUs) result in reduced health care use (HCU).

Methods

This was a retrospective open cohort study covering the years 2010–2018 of patients residing in Alberta, Canada, who were referred to the Calgary Comprehensive Epilepsy Program and admitted to a level 4 SMU. Patients were required to have ≥3 years pre‐ and postadmission follow‐up. The outcome was the change in trajectory of composite HCU (primary care, specialist outpatient visits, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations) for the 3 years prior to and 3 years following SMU admission using the point of admission as the “index date.” Secondary outcomes were HCU limited to specific settings. We excluded the first 30 days following the point of admission to mitigate the confounding admission would have on the postadmission HCU trajectory. We used adjusted restricted maximum likelihood linear and nonlinear effects models to determine trajectories expressed as Canadian dollars.

Results

A total of 315 of 600 (53%) patients met eligibility criteria. Mean age was 40 years (SD = 17.4), 176 (56%) were female, 220 (70%) had focal epilepsy, and 60 (19%) had functional seizures or physiologic seizure mimics without epilepsy as adjudicated by the attending physician at the point of discharge. Mean per person health care costs increased by CAD$341.28 (95% confidence interval [CI] = −25.17 to 707.74) for each successive 6‐month interval prior to SMU admission (p = .07). Following admission, mean per person costs decreased by CAD$802.34 (95% CI = 699.62–905.06, p < .001) for each successive 6‐month interval up to 3 years postdischarge. Similar trends were noted for primary and specialist care, emergency department, admitted care, and when nonlinear models were applied.

Significance

Admission to an SMU is associated with significant and enduring declines in HCU. Each 6‐months following discharge overall HCU declined by a mean of CAD$802.34 and acute inpatient, emergency department, and outpatient physician interactions declined by 25%, 26%, and 18% respectively. Comprehensive epilepsy care not only reduces morbidity and mortality but also reduces cost.
Sex Pheromone Mediates Resource Partitioning Between Drosophila melanogaster and D. suzukii
Authors: Kwadha Charles A. , Rehermann Guillermo , Tasso Deni , Fellous Simon , Bengtsson Marie , Wallin Erika A. , Flöhr Adam , Witzgall Peter , Becher Paul G.
Published: November 2024

The spotted‐wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii and the cosmopolitan vinegar fly D. melanogaster feed on soft fruit and berries and widely overlap in geographic range. The presence of D. melanogaster reduces egg‐laying in D. suzukii, possibly because D. melanogaster outcompetes D. suzukii larvae feeding in the same fruit substrate. Flies use pheromones to communicate for mating, but pheromones also serve a role in reproductive isolation between related species. We asked whether a D. melanogaster pheromone also modulates oviposition behaviour in D. suzukii. A dual‐choice oviposition assay confirms that D. suzukii lays fewer eggs on blueberries exposed to D. melanogaster flies and further shows that female flies have a stronger effect than male flies. This was corroborated by treating berries with synthetic pheromones. Avoidance of D. suzukii oviposition is mediated by the female D. melanogaster pheromone (Z)‐4‐undecenal (Z4‐11Al). Significantly fewer eggs were laid on berries treated with synthetic Z4‐11Al. In comparison, the male pheromone (Z)‐11‐octadecenyl acetate (cVA) had no effect on D. suzukii oviposition. Z4‐11Al is a highly volatile compound that is perceived via olfaction and it is accordingly behaviourally active at a distance from the source. D. suzukii is known to engage in mutual niche construction with the yeast Hanseniaspora uvarum, which strongly attracts flies. Adding Z4‐11Al to fermenting H. uvarum significantly decreased D. suzukii flight attraction in a laboratory wind tunnel and a field trapping assay. That a D. melanogaster pheromone regulates oviposition in D. suzukii demonstrates that heterospecific pheromone communication contributes to reproductive isolation and resource partitioning in cognate species. Stimulo‐deterrent diversion or push‐pull methods, building on combined use of attractant and deterrent compounds, have shown promise for control of D. suzukii. A pheromone that specifically reduces D. suzukii attraction and oviposition adds to the toolbox for D. suzukii integrated management.
Changes in the Yield Effect of the Preceding Crop in the US Corn Belt Under a Warming Climate
Authors: Zhou Junxiong , Zhu Peng , Kluger Dan M. , Lobell David B. , Jin Zhenong
Published: November 2024

Crop rotation has been widely used to enhance crop yields and mitigate adverse climate impacts. The existing research predominantly focuses on the impacts of crop rotation under growing season (GS) climates, neglecting the influences of non‐GS (NGS) climates on agroecosystems. This oversight limits our understanding of the comprehensive climatic impacts on crop rotation and, consequently, our ability to devise effective adaptation strategies in response to climate warming. In this study, we examine the impacts of both GS and NGS climate conditions on the yield effect of the preceding crop in corn‐soybean rotation systems from 1999 to 2018 in the US Midwest. Using causal forest analysis, we estimate that crop rotation increases corn and soybean yields by 0.96 and 0.22 t/ha on average, respectively. We then employ statistical models to indicate that increasing temperatures and rainfall in the NGS reduce corn rotation benefits, while warming GS enhances rotation benefits for soybeans. By 2051–2070, we project that warming climates will reduce corn rotation benefits by 6.74% under Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 1‐2.6 and 17.18% under SSP 5‐8.5. For soybeans, warming climates are expected to increase rotation benefits by 8.36% under SSP 1‐2.6 and 13.83% under SSP 5‐8.5. Despite these diverse climate impacts on both crops, increasing crop rotation could still improve county‐average yields, as neither corn nor soybean was fully rotated. If we project that all continuous corn and continuous soybeans are rotated by 2051–2070, county‐average corn yields will increase by 0.265 t/ha under SSP 1‐2.6 and 0.164 t/ha under SSP 5‐8.5, while county‐average soybean yields will gain 0.064 t/ha under SSP 1‐2.6 and 0.076 t/ha under SSP 5‐8.5. These findings highlight the effectiveness of crop rotation in the face of warming NGS and GS in the future and can help evaluate opportunities for adaptation.
The Growth of Cross‐Border Regions Toward “Two Countries, One Park”: A Case Study of the Mohan–Boten Cross‐Border Cooperation Zone
Authors: Song Zhouying , Yao Qiuhui , Liu Weidong
Published: November 2024

Cross‐border regions have been the frontier areas of regional and subregional cooperation, the development of which involves the interaction of multiple scales and various agents. Existing studies focus mainly on cross‐border economic cooperation but pay less attention to issues such as urban construction and community development, which may lead to the neglect of the interests of local communities in the development of cross‐border regions. Based on a case study of the Mohan–Boten Cross‐border Cooperation Zone (CCZ), this study argues for the integrated development toward “Two Countries, One Park” through the functional integration of urban planning, industrial investment, public services, and community development. The study finds that the success of the “Two Countries, One Park” pattern relies on the coordination of multi‐scalar governance and multi‐agent cooperation, whereas the “scale paradox” caused by the asymmetric distribution of power and responsibility among different governance scales and the relevant agents is a major hindrance to functional integration and cross‐border cooperation. Addressing the “scale paradox” is, therefore, crucial for successful cross‐border development.
The Effect of Organisational Justice, Academic Identification and Legitimacy of Academic Authorities on Student Loyalty
Authors: Główczewski Michał , Burdziej Stanisław , Wójcik Adrian Dominik
Published: November 2024

Our work contributes to existing research on student loyalty by testing a model that includes organisational justice as a predictor. In Study 1 (n = 257, Polish sample), students' perceived organisational justice of their university was a positive predictor of their loyalty. In Study 2 (n = 522, Polish sample), we replicated these findings and observed that academic identification accounted for the relationship between university's organisational justice and students' loyalty. In Study 3 (n = 500, American sample), we replicated findings from Study 1 and Study 2 and tested perceived legitimacy of university staff and authorities as another mediator of the investigated relationship. We conclude that the experience of organisational fairness at university translates into stronger academic identification and greater perceived university legitimacy, both of which lead to increased loyalty. Thus, we recommend that evaluation tools in higher education institutions more explicitly measure student perceptions of fairness.
Delivery of Supported Self‐Management in Primary Care Asthma Reviews: Insights From the IMP2ART Programme
Authors: Kinley Emma , Pinnock Hilary , Steed Liz , McClatchey Kirstie
Published: November 2024

Background

Supported self‐management (SSM) for asthma reduces the risk of asthma attacks and improves asthma control and quality of life. SSM optimally includes patient‐centred communication and behaviour change support, however, the extent to which this occurs in routine primary care is unclear. This project was nested within the IMPlementing IMProved Asthma self‐management as RouTine (IMP2ART) programme; a UK‐wide trial evaluating an implementation strategy (including healthcare professional (HCP) training on behaviour change strategies and patient‐centred care) to improve support for asthma self‐management.

Objective

To provide an understanding of how healthcare professionals deliver SSM in UK clinical practice; through assessing time spent on SSM strategies, how and to what extent patient‐centred care and behaviour change discussions are delivered, and to explore whether factors such as mode of review or implementation support influence delivery.

Design, Setting and Participants

We conducted an observational study using video‐recordings of 12 HCPs delivering routine face‐to‐face and telephone asthma reviews (n = 64) in a sample of general practices participating in the IMP2ART trial (implementation n = 4; control n = 6). Analytical methods included: ALFA Toolkit Multi‐Channel Video Observation (to code and quantify tasks undertaken); the Patient‐Centred Observation Form; and The Behaviour Change Counselling Index (to assess patient‐centeredness and behaviour change counselling used by HCPs).

Results

HCPs mostly spent time during routine asthma reviews discussing: an individual's asthma condition and management (average of 27.8% of consultation time); collaboratively reviewing and completing a personalised asthma action plan (6.3%) and training for practical self‐management activities (5.4%). Areas of patient‐centred care delivery and behavioural discussions included: creating and maintaining relationships, discussing asthma action plans and medication reconciliation. Professionals in IMP2ART implementation group practices delivered more SSM strategies. Comparison of face‐to‐face and remote consultations found no significant differences in HCP delivery of SSM.

Conclusions

HCPs in UK primary care spent half the time in both face‐to‐face and remote asthma reviews delivering components of SSM suggesting that either mode of delivery may be acceptable. Reviews carried out in IMP2ART implementation group practices demonstrated more behaviour change and collaborative SSM strategies compared to those in the control group.

Patient and Public Contribution

Asthma UK Centre for Applied Research (AUKCAR) PPI members were involved throughout, including project conception, providing feedback on participant‐facing documents, and discussing implications of study findings.
Moisturizing and antioxidant factors of skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo and vitamin E in human keratinocyte cells
Authors: Mohanan Ratheesh , Jose Svenia P. , Sreevallabhan Sheethal , Jalam Jatheera K. , Tilwani Jayesh , Jagmag Tariq , Abhyankar Mahesh , George Sajeev Martin
Published: November 2024

Objective

Moisturizers are integral to daily skincare routines, reflecting the increasing trend among people towards cosmetic products, particularly for skin care. They significantly contribute to preserving skin health, particularly by regulating the epidermal barrier and moisture levels within the skin. This study aims to explore the moisturizing and antioxidant effect of skin barrier restoring cream Moiz MM (MZ) with shea butter, silkflo and vitamin E by investigating its protective effect against oxidative stress‐induced cellular damage and therapeutic mechanisms in human keratinocytes cells (HaCaT).

Methods

The in vitro antioxidant activity of MZ was evaluated by DPPH, ABTS and NO assays. For the cell culture study, HaCaT cells were cultured and stimulated using H2O2 and then treated with different concentrations of MZ. Then, it was subjected to DCFH‐DA staining, reverse transcriptase PCR and western blot analysis for the evaluation of various skin‐moisture‐related components in human keratinocyte cells. Type I procollagen was examined using ELISA technique.

Results

The results highlighted that oxidative stress in HaCaT cells decreased type I procollagen synthesis, while MZ treatment significantly increased the synthesis. Moreover, the viability of HaCaT cells was not affected in the presence of MZ, which demonstrates its non‐toxic effect. Furthermore, MZ can counteract H2O2‐mediated oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant enzyme activity such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, and decrease reactive oxygen species generation in skin cells. Additionally, MZ greatly promotes hyaluronic acid production by enhancing the expression of the hyaluronic acid synthase‐1 gene and Aquaporin 3 protein.

Conclusion

This study suggests that MZ has the potential to serve as a moisturizing and antioxidant skincare formula.
Positive and Negative Effects of Inter‐Annual Climate Variability on Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Crop in Agro‐Climatic Zones of Punjab
Authors: Abbas Sohail , Li Tingting , Chen Yi , Lu Heli , Lu Siqi , Lv Fenglin , Cao Liang , Mazhar Nausheen , Feng Wanfu
Published: November 2024

Globally, climate changes have significantly shifted the phenological phases and stages of rice, altered the duration of the growing season and negatively affected rice productivity due to flooding and drought. However, in the present study, the positive and negative impacts of inter‐annual climate variability on rice crops during phenological stages in agro‐climatic zones of Punjab for the period from 1989 to 2018. Initially, first difference approach was applied to minimise the impact of technological factors. Then, skewness and kurtosis tests were used to check the normalisation of the data. The standardisation method was used to normalise the data. Pearson correlation was used to determine the significant effects of climate variables on rice yield. The residuals were formed to confirm the effects of inter‐annual climate variability on rice yield in the phenological phases. The analysis revealed that a high variability of rice yields was investigated in the western region compared to the southern and western regions. The results showed a negative impact of heavy rainfall (flooding) on the years with low yields (2010, 2013 and 2016) in the Central region. Similarly, the years with low rice yields (1996, 2010, 2013 and 2014) in the Southern region were negatively affected by flooding at the time of sowing. A positive effect of rainfall was observed in the years with high rice yields (1995, 2002, 2009 and 2018) in the Western region. In contrast, the low‐yielding years 1994, 2003 and 2010 were negatively affected by flooding in the same years during the tillering stage. A high interannual maximum temperature variability was analysed in the Southern > Western > Central regions, leading to yield losses due to biotic stress during tillering and stem elongation stages. This is due to the immense reason of drought stress. The minimum temperature negatively affects the low‐yield years (2001, 2008, 2013 and 2016) in the central zone and the low‐yield years (2014, 2015 and 2016) in the southern zone during the reproductive stage. This research will help to develop new rice varieties that are more productive at high temperatures and require less water, leading to sustainable development in arid and semi‐arid regions.
Thermodynamic study on the phase assemblage of MPC exposed to natural and accelerated carbonation conditions
Authors: Han Weiwei , Chen Huisu , Song Shaomin
Published: November 2024

Magnesium phosphate cement (MPC), which belongs to chemically bonded phosphate ceramics, is commonly applied as a repair material and waste stabilization/solidifications. However, studies on the influence of CO2 on the phase assemblages in MPC are limited. A thermodynamic simulation approach is employed to explore the influence of CO2 on the equilibrium phase assemblage of MPC. The mechanisms of natural and enforced carbonation of MPC have been investigated in this work. The results disclose that Mg carbonates are less likely to precipitate in magnesium ammonium phosphate cement (MAPC) cured under CO2, while MgCO3·3H2O is the only carbonation product of magnesium potassium phosphate cement (MKPC). The carbonation resistance of MAPC is better than that of MKPC. The increase of activity of magnesia employed in MPC obviously enhances the formation of brucite and slightly promotes the carbonation of MPC.
Women's Acceptability of and Satisfaction With Self‐Monitoring Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
Authors: Vasilevski Vidanka , Murphy Kathleen , Giarrusso Rebecca , Sweet Linda
Published: November 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability and satisfaction of pregnant women at risk of hypertensive disorders with self‐monitoring their blood pressure.

Design

A prospective cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Women at risk of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy were recommended to self‐monitor their blood pressure at the study site to reduce hospital visits. Women who purchased a subsidised blood pressure monitor through the hospital were invited to participate in a survey about acceptability of and satisfaction with self‐monitoring their blood pressure between hospital visits. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Results

Thirty women completed the survey. Most women were highly satisfied with self‐monitoring their blood pressure and the support provided from hospital staff for responding to high readings experienced at home. The reassurance of monitoring their health and the convenience of reduced hospital visits were reported benefits of self‐monitoring blood pressure. Inaccuracy of readings, anxiety associated with high readings, and cost of purchasing the machine were described as concerns by a small number of women.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that self‐monitoring blood pressure may be a useful addition to antenatal care for women at risk of hypertensive disorders. Ensuring that antenatal care providers adequately test machines for accuracy and educate women about proper use is essential. Promoting equitable access to self‐monitoring by providing free or very low‐cost machines to women experiencing financial disadvantage is warranted.

Impact

Self‐monitoring blood pressure during pregnancy has the potential to improve the detection of hypertensive disorders and reduce hospital visits and associated healthcare system costs.

Public or Patient Contribution

The authors have nothing to report.
The effects of embedded quizzes on self‐regulated processes and learning performance during a multimedia lesson
Authors: Tordet Camille , Fernandez Jonathan , Jamet Eric
Published: November 2024

Background

Previous research has demonstrated that quizzing can improve self‐regulation processes and learning performances. However, it remains unclear whether quizzes in multimedia material bring similar benefits, and whether interindividual differences such as working memory capacity (WMC) modulate quizzing effects.

Aims

This study aimed to examine the effects of embedded quizzes (multiple quizzes within the learning sequence) with feedback during a multimedia learning sequence on self‐regulated processing (monitoring and control) and learning performances on repeated (material already tested) and new (untested) questions, and possible WMC moderation on performances.

Sample and Methods

Participants were 59 students who learned a multimedia neuroscience course module in either a no‐quiz or embedded quizzes condition. With regard to self‐regulated processing, control was assessed with eye‐tracking measures (fixation durations and transitions between texts and illustrations), and monitoring by comparing self‐reported judgements of learning with actual performances (calibration). At the end, students' WMC was measured, and learning performances were assessed with repeated and new questions.

Results

Quizzing improved learning performances on repeated and new questions, and enhanced monitoring (better calibration). Students with low WMC benefited more from quizzing for new questions than those with high WMC. However, contrary to our hypothesis, the embedded quizzes group allocated less time to the learning than the no‐quiz group.

Conclusions

Embedded quizzes are relevant tools to help students recalibrate their monitoring process and foster more effective self‐regulated learning. Results confirm that the use of quizzes can be recommended to improve the learning of multimedia material, especially among students with low WMC.
Mining teacher informal online learning networks: Community commitment in unstructured learning environments
Authors: Du Hanxiang , Zhu Gaoxia , Xing Wanli
Published: November 2024

Background

Social media provides new opportunities for teachers to learn, communicate and develop professional relationships. It has been proved to be a valid and helpful resource for teachers' professional learning purposes.

Objectives

While previous studies pursued questions like how participants feel, how to support interaction and why participants remain committed, we asked a more fundamental question: what is the structure of a massive informal online professional learning network and what dynamics can we expect regarding participants' commitment?

Methods

This work presents an empirical study of massive informal online professional networks to investigate the dynamics of learning communities and participants' commitment over time. We employed social network analysis and data mining techniques on a longitudinal data set of more than 400,000 tweets published with the hashtag “#edchat.”

Results and Conclusions

We found that around 30% of participants remained committed to the informal learning community over time. Meanwhile, as more and more people committed to the online learning community, participants tended to form smaller communities where the internal connection was stronger.

Takeaways

In informal online learning environments, participants can form stable connections. The 30% threshold can be used to measure massive informal online learning networks in terms of commitment or persistence.
Chinese expert consensus on the management of hypertension in adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Pan Xiaohui , He Hongbo , Bao Yuqian , Bi Yan , Chen Luyuan , Chen Xiaoping , Fang Hui , Feng Wenhuan , Gao Ling , Guo Lixin , Guo Yifang , Han Yaling , Hua Qi , Li Nanfang , Li Quanmin , Li Yan , Li Yong , Li Xialian , Liu Jing , Ma Huijuan , Mu Jianjun , Nong Kailei , Shang Huiqian , Shen Yunfeng , Shi Zhongwei , Sun Fang , Sun Ningling , Tao Jun , Wang Jiguang , Wang Xinling , Wu Jing , Xiao Xinhua , Xie Liangdi , Xu Jing , Xu Jing , Ye Hongying , Yu Dongni , Yuan Hong , Zhang Huijie , Zhang Jian , Zhang Lili , Zhang Yuqing , Zhou Jiaqiang , Zhou Xinli , Zhu Dalong , Zhu Tiehong , Li Sheyu , Zhu Zhiming ,   Diabetes and Obesity Research Group of Chinese Diabetes Society (CDS) and Chinese Hypertension League (CHL)
Published: November 2024

Both hypertension and type 2 diabetes are attributable to premature death, cardiovascular and kidney diseases with largely overlapping population. Followed the GRADE approach, this expert consensus aimed to reduce the cardiovascular and kidney death and disability due to hypertension and minimize the treatment burden in adults with type 2 diabetes. Through online survey and discussion, a multidisciplinary team comprehensively prioritized seven key guideline questions. Informed by the evidence synthesis and online discussion, the team developed 12 recommendations under the GRADE Evidence‐to‐decision (EtD) framework. The recommendations covered the screening of hypertension in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes but not hypertension and the monitoring, lifestyle interventions, and medications in those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
Mapping the Landscape of Medical Humanities Education: Trends and Insights
Authors: Hong Yunxia , Song Chao , Jiang Zhongquan , Zhang Wen
Published: November 2024

Background

Medical humanities education is an integral component of medical education. However, the current landscape of research on medical humanities education remains incomplete. The purpose of this study is to identify the trends in research on medical humanities education and provide a global overview of the field by analysing various aspects such as sources, authors, literature, and keywords. The aim is to offer insights and recommendations for the future development of medical humanities education.

Methods

This research utilised bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, SciMAT, and the R software package biblioshiny to analyse literature sources, authors, documents, and keywords. This systematic review methodology allowed for a comprehensive examination of the field. Additionally, the study investigated international collaborations and scientific outputs, shedding light on the global landscape of medical humanities education research.

Results

The study included a total of 403 articles published between January 1980 and December 2023 from the Web of Science (WoS) database. The field of medical humanities education experienced an annual growth rate of 9.08% in literature output from 1980 to 2023, indicating its increasing prominence and scholarly interest over time. The research topics within this field have evolved in response to societal and medical developments. Core research themes that have consistently garnered attention from researchers include empathy, ethics, and narrative medicine, reflecting their significance and ongoing relevance in the field.

Conclusion

These shifts in research hotspots signify the dynamic nature of the field, adapting to evolving contexts and emerging research domains. By embracing cross‐cultural perspectives and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, stakeholders in medical humanities education can collectively enrich the field, promote inclusivity, and enhance the overall educational experience for healthcare professionals.
Enhancing Shelf‐Life of Bael Beverage Through Various Pasteurization Techniques: A Comparative Study at 25°C and 4°C With Thermal, Pulsed Light, and Microwave Treatments
Authors: Dhar Rishab , Chakraborty Snehasis
Published: November 2024

The influence of thermal (95°C, 5 min), pulsed light (PL, 1.64 kJ/cm2 available fluence) and microwave (MW, 2 kW, and 16 min ≈ 90°C final temperature) treatment on various quality attributes and shelf‐life of bael (Aegle marmelos) beverage was investigated. The quality parameters under consideration included microbial growth, enzyme activity, bioactive components, sensory quality, and physicochemical properties. Effects of different packaging materials (ethyl vinyl alcohol (EVOH) and multilayered (ML) pouches) and storage temperatures (25°C and 4°C) were also explored. The rate of sample deterioration, loss of bioactive components, and sensory qualities increased with higher storage temperature. MW and thermal processing showed better storage stability based on the minimum microbial counts, enzyme activities, and minimal changes in soluble solids. Least sedimentation was seen in thermally treated samples. MW treatment was better in preventing alterations in pH and titratable acidity (at 25°C), reducing sugars, browning, and sensory acceptance. On 50th day at 4°C, higher total phenolic content (59%–64%), antioxidant capacity (69%–72%), and total carotenoid content (136%–139%) were obtained with the PL treatment. For both packaging materials, a shelf‐life of 40–50 days (as per aerobic mesophile count ≤ 4.0 log CFU/mL) and 30 days (as per overall sensory acceptability > 5) at 4°C was obtained for thermal and microwave. As per AM count, shelf‐life of PL irradiated beverages was 40 days, and according to sensory acceptability, it was 30 days. Overall, MW processed beverages stored in ML‐pouches and at 4°C exhibited better shelf life and storage quality.
Transformation of Quality Attributes of Fruit Leathers Using Diverse Hydrocolloids: Recent Application and Future Perspective
Authors: Alam Masud , Rawat Mansi , Kaur Sawinder , Dar Basharat Nabi , Nanda Vikas
Published: November 2024

This study provides a comprehensive review of recent advancements in the application of diverse hydrocolloids in the formulation of fruit‐based leathers. It highlights the significant impact of hydrocolloids in improving the techno‐functional properties of these fruit leathers to align with consumer preferences. The review extends beyond traditional attributes, exploring the specific effects of hydrocolloids on fruit leather formulations. Key factors such as fruit selection, processing methods, the type and concentration of hydrocolloids, and their synergistic interactions are thoroughly evaluated. The review also highlights the importance of controlling parameters like pH, sugar content, total soluble solids (TSS), drying temperature, and drying time which are crucial for maintaining the quality attributes of fruit leathers. By addressing these aspects, the study offers a comprehensive understanding of the role hydrocolloids play in developing superior fruit leather products. Moreover, the textural, and sensory properties and retention of anti‐oxidant activity of fruit leathers are significantly improved with the use of hydrocolloids. This enhancement not only provides consumer demands for better texture and taste but also promotes the creation of healthier food products. Overall, this review underscores the potential of hydrocolloids in transforming fruit leather formulations, leading to more appealing and health‐conscious food options.
From extraction to end‐uses and waste management: Modeling economy‐wide material cycles and stock dynamics around the world
Authors: Wiedenhofer Dominik , Streeck Jan , Wieland Hanspeter , Grammer Benedikt , Baumgart André , Plank Barbara , Helbig Christoph , Pauliuk Stefan , Haberl Helmut , Krausmann Fridolin
Published: November 2024

Material stocks of infrastructure, buildings, and machinery are the biophysical basis of production and consumption. They are a crucial lever for resource efficiency and a sustainable circular economy. While material stock research has proliferated over the last years, most studies investigated specific materials or end‐uses, usually not embedded into an economy‐wide perspective. Herein, we present a novel version of the economy‐wide, dynamic, inflow‐driven model of material inputs, stocks, and outputs (MISO2), and present a global, country‐level application. Currently, MISO2 covers 14 supply chain processes from raw material extraction to processing, trade, recycling, and waste management, as well as 13 end‐uses of stocks. The derived database covers 23 raw materials and 20 stock‐building materials, across 177 countries from 1900 to 2016. We find that total material stocks amount to 1093 Gt in 2016, of which the majority are residential (290 Gt) and non‐residential buildings (234 Gt), as well as civil engineering (243 Gt), and roads (313 Gt). The other nine end‐uses covering stationary and mobile machinery, as well as short‐lived products, amount to 13 Gt. Material stocks per capita are highly unequally distributed around the world, with one order of magnitude difference between low‐ and high‐income countries. Results agree well with similar global country‐level studies. Low data quality for some domains, especially for lower‐income countries and for sand and gravel aggregates, warrant further attention. In conclusion, the MISO2 model and the derived database provide stock‐flow consistent perspectives of the socio‐economic metabolism around the world, enabling multiple novel and policy relevant research opportunities. This article met the requirements for a silver‐gold JIE data openness badge described at http://jie.click/badges.
Healthcare Experiences and Needs of Older Adults Living With HIV: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lund Marie , Sundler Annelie J. , Carlsson Lalloo Ewa
Published: November 2024

Aim

To explore the healthcare experiences and needs of older adults living with HIV in Sweden.

Design

A phenomenological study using qualitative thematic analysis.

Methods

Data were gathered through semistructured qualitative interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. A purposive sample of individuals ageing and living with HIV was recruited for this study.

Results

A total of 22 participants aged 65 years and older, with a mean age of 75 years, participated in the study. Living with HIV meant a need to rely on consistent healthcare and treatment over the course of one's lifetime. The experiences of older adults were described under four themes: relying on access to health care, desiring involvement and shared decision‐making, the importance of trust and confidentiality and experiences of stigma in healthcare visits.

Conclusion

Living and ageing with HIV involved recurring exposure and vulnerability in healthcare encounters, and experiences of being exposed to HIV‐related stigma, especially outside HIV clinics. Continuity and being seen as a person in healthcare encounters were important. Enhancing HIV knowledge alongside fostering supportive attitudes and approaches of healthcare professionals is critical for ensuring high‐quality and nondiscriminating health care.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Meeting the needs of older adults living with HIV requires a person‐centred approach, including active involvement and shared decision‐making between patients and healthcare providers.

Impact

This study describes the healthcare experiences and needs of older adults, aged 65 years and older, living with HIV, a population that is not typically investigated in qualitative research. Living and ageing with HIV means a vulnerability where the attitudes of professionals and the active involvement of the patient become significant for quality care. The findings can help with the implementation of policies and practices for the care of older adults living with HIV.

Reporting Method

The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ) was used.

Patient and Public Contribution

Patient representatives were involved in discussions on data collection and the development of the interview guide.