bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of a smart home suitability indicator and indicative self-assessment platform for the disabled facilities grants (DFGs)
Authors: Oyegoke Adekunle Sabitu , Ajayi Saheed , Abbas Muhammad Azeem , Ogunlana Stephen 
Published: February 2024

Purpose Delay in housing adaptation is a major problem, especially in assessing if homes are suitable for the occupants and in determining if the occupants are qualified for the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). This paper describes the development of two self-administered intelligent integrated assessment tools from the DFG Adapt-ABLE system: (1) The Home Suitability Assessment Platform, which is a preventive mechanism that allows assessment of the suitability of homes based on occupants’ mobility status and (2) an indicative assessment platform that determines if the applicants are qualified for the DFG to prevent lengthy delays.Design/methodology/approach The adopted method aligned with a development study approach: a grounded literature review, a severity measurement approach, two stakeholder engagement workshops, four brainstorming sessions and four focus group exercises. The system development relied on Entity–Relationship Diagram (ERD) technique for data structures and database systems design. It uses DFG context sensitivity with alignment with DFG guidance, interlinkages and interoperability between the assessment tools and other platforms of the integrated Adapt-ABLE system.Findings The assessment tools are client-level outcomes related to accessibility, usability and activity based on the assessment process. The home suitability platform shows the percentage of the suitability of a home with assessment results that suggest appropriate action plans based on individual mobility status. The indicative assessment combines the function of referral, allocation, assessment and test of resources into an integrated platform. This enables timely assessment, decision-making and case-escalation by Occupational Therapists based on needs criteria and the eligibility threshold.Originality/valueThese assessment tools are useful for understanding occupants’ perception of their physical housing environment in terms of accessibility, suitability and usability based on basic activities of daily living and their mobility status. The indicative self-assessment tool will substantially cut down the application journey. The developed tools have been recommended for use in the CSJ Disability Commission report and the UK government Guidance on DFGs for local authorities in England.
Strategies and approaches for delivering sustainable training and professional development of graduate teaching assistants, teaching assistants, and tutors: a scoping review
Authors: Sadera Emma , Suonio Elina E.K. , Chen Joseph Chih-Chien , Herbert Rowan , Hsu Dennis , Bogdan Branka , Kool Bridget 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe aim of this scoping review was to identify key characteristics related to strategies and approaches for delivering sustainable training and professional development (PD) of graduate teaching assistants (GTAs), teaching assistants (TAs), and tutors. While the continuous, coherent and responsive programmes for such training and PD may address needs that are congruent with the needs of other sessional teachers, the literature has not focussed on GTA training and PD that support the longer-term retention of GTAs as sessional teachers.Design/methodology/approachIn this scoping review, we devised a search strategy to identify literature relating to the key characteristics of strategies and approaches for delivering sustainable GTA training and professional development in higher education settings. We were guided by the frameworks for such reviews developed by Arksey and O’Malley (2005), Levac et al. (2010) and Westphaln et al. (2021). We used PRISMA guidelines to guide our reporting processes, and used thematic analysis practice (Braun and Clarke, 2022) as our analytical approach in order to identify and discuss the key themes.FindingsWe identified that strategies and approaches for delivering sustainable GTA training and PD frame GTAs as future academics and leaders in teaching; provide institutional support and investment in teaching; deliver departmental training; facilitate peer support; provide pedagogical training; implement training strategies; and support the teacher identity of GTAs.Originality/valueThese findings add to the body of research that explores how strategies and approaches for delivering sustainable GTA training and PD address and meet the needs common to all sessional teachers constrained by the precarity of the part-time faculty/academia. While our findings indicate such training and PD enhance the quality of teaching available to university students, this effect is dependent on institutional support and facilitation of peer and faculty networks.
Influence of water physico‐chemical parameters on the spatio‐temporal activity variations of west African waterbirds (fam. Ardeidae)
Authors: Sossou Donald Sèwanou , Adjakpa Jacques Boco , Fiogbé Emile Didier 
Published: February 2024

AbstractVariations in physico‐chemical parameters of water as abiotic factors affect the spatio‐temporal distributions of the organisms that live in it. The present study aims to determine the influence of physico‐chemical properties on Ardeidae spatio‐temporal variations in the wetland of Ramsar site 1018 in Benin. To reach this goal, transect enumeration techniques and stationary counts lasting 15–30 min were used to count Ardeidae species once a month at different sites such as Nokoué Lake, Sô River, Porto‐Novo Lagoon, Ouémé River and ancient Lagoons from January 2015 to December 2016. Water physico‐chemical parameters were measured at three stations per site during the bird counts. Five of the 12 species recorded monthly were significantly influenced (p < 0.05) by water physico‐chemical parameters. It was then revealed that pH influenced Ardeidae spatial variation. Such information is relevant to the management of Ramsar Site 1018, which hosts migratory waterbird species from Palearctic (Eurasia) every year.
Testing for priority effects of tree plantings on natural regeneration in restoration sites in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Restrepo‐Carvajal Isabel Cristina , Manhães Adriana Pellegrini , Pantaleão Laura Cristina , de Moraes Luiz Fernando Duarte , Mantuano Dulce Gilson , Sansevero Jerônimo Boelsums Barreto 
Published: February 2024

AbstractQuestionsOur study aims to understand whether priority effects or environmental filters drive community assembly in 20‐year‐old restoration areas in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. For this, we investigated the following questions: (i) does the initial composition of planted communities (distinct combination of ecological groups) affect the natural regeneration regarding functional composition (mean trait values), diversity (functional and taxonomic), and vegetation structure? (ii) Which functional traits of the planted community have the potential to promote or constrain natural regeneration?LocationThe study was carried out in the Poço das Antas Biological Reserve, located in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, in a stand of 2.16 hectares with an experimental restoration design established in the year 2000 to test tree species performance of different ecological groups.MethodsIn 2020, we sampled trees with a diameter at breast height greater than 2.5 cm in 20 m × 20 m plots with four replicates per treatment and measured leaf, wood, and seed functional traits. Then, we estimated the diversity (functional and taxonomic richness), functional composition, and vegetation structure of natural regeneration, compared them between treatments, and tested which traits of the planted community influenced them.ResultsNatural regeneration exhibited significant differences between treatments, particularly regarding the diversity dimension (functional and taxonomic) and vegetation structure (basal area and abundance). Wood density, leaf phosphorus content, and leaf C:N ratio of the planted species were associated with natural regeneration (functional composition, diversity, and vegetation structure).ConclusionsPriority effects in conservative tree planting communities affect natural regeneration, while functional convergence observed in acquisitive planting communities suggests the role of environmental filtering. Communities with low wood density, low C:N ratio, and high specific leaf area, which characterize an acquisitive resource‐use strategy, exhibited higher functional and taxonomic diversity of natural regeneration, leading to the desired trajectory in ecological restoration.
Benefits of the combination of digital and analogic tools as a strategy to control possible awake bruxism: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Poluha Rodrigo Lorenzi , Macário Heloiza Silva , Câmara‐Souza Mariana Barbosa , De la Torre Canales Giancarlo , Ernberg Malin , Stuginski‐Barbosa Juliana 
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackgroundAwake Bruxism (AB) management includes cognitive and behavioural changes. Digital and analogic tools can be used to remind the individual to control/avoid AB behaviours. However, no study addressed both tools together.ObjectiveTo compare the efficacy of the combination of digital (smartphone application) and analogic (adhesive reminders) tools versus digital tool alone for AB management.MethodsSeventy‐two individuals diagnosed with probable AB were divided into 3 groups: Group 1 (n = 24), used both digital and analogic tools during 30 days; Group 2 (n = 24), used only a digital tool during 30 days and Group 3 (n = 24), used only a digital tool for the first 15 days and then added the analogic tool for 15 days. The AB frequency was measured in real‐time with a smartphone app, which sent alerts asking the individuals if they were doing any AB behaviours (bracing, teeth contact, clenching or grinding). Groups were compared using one‐way ANOVA and before‐after adding an analogic tool (group 3) by paired t‐test, considering α = 0.05.ResultsAll groups showed a decrease in AB behaviours at the end of the evaluation period. Group 1 (digital and analogic tools) showed the lowest average of AB behaviours among all groups; however, statistically significant differences were found only for the comparison between groups 1 and 2. In group 3, a significantly greater reduction in AB behaviours was found after combining both approaches.ConclusionThe combination of digital and analogic tools showed the greatest reduction of AB frequency and can be recommended for AB control.
Use of online food retail platforms throughout the COVID‐19 pandemic and associated diet‐related chronic disease risk factors: A systematic review of emerging evidence
Authors: Jia Si Si , Raeside Rebecca , Sainsbury Emma , Wardak Sara , Phongsavan Philayrath , Redfern Julie , Allman‐Farinelli Margaret , Fernandez Melissa A. , Partridge Stephanie R. , Gibson Alice A. 
Published: February 2024

SummaryFood accessibility was considerably impacted by restrictions during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, leading to growth in the online food retail sector, which offered contact‐free delivery. This systematic review aimed to assess the change in use of online food retail platforms during COVID‐19. The secondary aim was to identify diet‐related chronic disease risk factors including dietary intake, eating behaviors, and/or weight status associated with the use of online food retail platforms during the pandemic. The review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD42022320498) and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Nine electronic databases were searched between January 2020 and October 2023. Studies that reported the frequency or change in use of online groceries, meal delivery applications, and/or meal‐kit delivery services before and during the pandemic were included. A total of 53 studies were identified, including 46 cross‐sectional studies, 4 qualitative studies, 2 longitudinal cohort studies, and 1 mixed‐methods study. Overall, 96% (43/45) of outcomes showed an increase in the use of online groceries during COVID‐19, while 55% (22/40) of outcomes showed a decrease in meal delivery applications. Eight of nine outcomes associated the use of online food retail with weight gain and emotional eating. Further research is needed to investigate the links between online food retail and obesity.
Observing the clinical efficacy of combined serum microneedle therapy for moderate to severe androgenetic alopecia in scalp repair
Authors: Zhang Fan , Jia Shutong , Ye Bo , Li Fenfen , Zhang Jiayu , Jin Qiuzi , Li Man 
Published: February 2024

AbstractObjectiveIn this study, the safety and efficacy of scalp repair serum microneedles combined with oral drug administration and topical medication were investigated for the treatment of moderate to severe androgenetic alopecia.MethodsTwenty patients, consisting of 4 males and 16 females, who sought treatment for moderate to severe androgenetic alopecia at our hair medicine research center alopecia specialty clinic between August and December 2022 were randomly selected for the study. Male patients underwent oral administration of finasteride topical application of 5% minoxidil, and biweekly scalp repair serum microneedle therapy. Female patients were administered spironolactone or Diane‐35 orally and applied 2% minoxidil topically, paired with biweekly scalp repair serum microneedle therapy sessions. After seven treatments, the scalp repair serum microneedle was discontinued, but oral administration and topical applications were continued, followed by a 1‐month follow‐up. Using a hair dermoscopy, hair follicles in a fixed region on the top of the head were manually counted per unit area to evaluate the hair restoration status of the patients quantitatively.ResultsAll 20 patients completed 3 months of combined therapy and a 1‐month follow‐up. On average, the patients experienced an increase of 42.6 hairs, with an efficiency rate of 100%. Significant differences were observed in hair count between any two of the first seven treatments (p < 0.001). A significant negative correlation was discovered between the initial pre‐treatment hair count and the total improvement of hair (p < 0.001), indicating that the greater the degree of hair loss before treatment, the more pronounced the improvement.ConclusionScalp repair serum microneedle combined therapy in moderate to severe androgenetic alopecia significantly reduces the number of microneedle treatments required, enhances treatment efficacy, and improves therapeutic outcomes.
Challenges and supports for secondary science and mathematics teacher retention
Authors: Lotter Christine , Crooks‐Monastra Jennifer , Irdam Greysi , Yow Jan A. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractMore research related to effective ways to support and retain teachers in the teaching profession is necessary as the need for science and mathematics teachers continues to grow. Understanding how teachers perceive challenges and experience support early in their career can contribute to building environments which foster teacher retention. This mixed‐method study explored the influences on the self‐efficacy and career satisfaction of a group of 21 early‐career (2–6 years of classroom experience) secondary science and mathematics teachers who participated in a traditional university preparation program and scholarship program to prepare them for teaching in high‐need school districts. Using data from an efficacy survey and semistructured interviews, this study measured changes in teacher efficacy and described teacher leadership experiences, perceived teaching challenges, and valued supports. Results found no change in teachers' self‐efficacy scores although mean outcome expectancy scores decreased. Teachers' identification as a teacher leader was correlated with science or mathematics teaching self‐efficacy. Qualitative coding of the interviews revealed ways in which assessments, workload, school structures and polices, administration, students, and teacher community either contributed to teachers reported difficulties or supported them as early‐career teachers. The discussion offers suggestions for ways to increase secondary science and mathematics teachers' job satisfaction.
Approach to febrile neutropenia in patients undergoing treatments for hematologic malignancies
Authors: Stohs Erica J. , Abbas Anum , Freifeld Alison 
Published: February 2024

AbstractFebrile neutropenia (FN) is common among hematologic malignancy patients, including recipients of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) and cellular therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T‐cell therapy. Prompt empiric antibiotic use has been the mainstay for decades but a “one‐size‐fits‐all” approach is no longer broadly accepted, as treatment‐related infectious risk are more understood. Growing antimicrobial resistance is an increasing clinical challenge. Evolving strategies on de‐escalation of broad‐spectrum antibiotics in FN without identified infection are areas of particular interest.
Optogenetic confirmation of transverse‐tubular membrane excitability in intact cardiac myocytes
Authors: Scardigli Marina , Pásek Michal , Santini Lorenzo , Palandri Chiara , Conti Emilia , Crocini Claudia , Campione Marina , Loew Leslie M. , de Vries Antoine A. F. , Pijnappels Daniël A. , Pavone Francesco S. , Poggesi Corrado , Cerbai Elisabetta , Coppini Raffaele , Kohl Peter , Ferrantini Cecilia , Sacconi Leonardo 
Published: February 2024

AbstractT‐tubules (TT) form a complex network of sarcolemmal membrane invaginations, essential for well‐co‐ordinated excitation–contraction coupling (ECC) and thus homogeneous mechanical activation of cardiomyocytes. ECC is initiated by rapid depolarization of the sarcolemmal membrane. Whether TT membrane depolarization is active (local generation of action potentials; AP) or passive (following depolarization of the outer cell surface sarcolemma; SS) has not been experimentally validated in cardiomyocytes. Based on the assessment of ion flux pathways needed for AP generation, we hypothesize that TT are excitable. We therefore explored TT excitability experimentally, using an all‐optical approach to stimulate and record trans‐membrane potential changes in TT that were structurally disconnected, and hence electrically insulated, from the SS membrane by transient osmotic shock. Our results establish that cardiomyocyte TT can generate AP. These AP show electrical features that differ substantially from those observed in SS, consistent with differences in the density of ion channels and transporters in the two different membrane domains. We propose that TT‐generated AP represent a safety mechanism for TT AP propagation and ECC, which may be particularly relevant in pathophysiological settings where morpho‐functional changes reduce the electrical connectivity between SS and TT membranes.
imageKey points
Cardiomyocytes are characterized by a complex network of membrane invaginations (the T‐tubular system) that propagate action potentials to the core of the cell, causing uniform excitation–contraction coupling across the cell.
In the present study, we investigated whether the T‐tubular system is able to generate action potentials autonomously, rather than following depolarization of the outer cell surface sarcolemma.
For this purpose, we developed a fully optical platform to probe and manipulate the electrical dynamics of subcellular membrane domains.
Our findings demonstrate that T‐tubules are intrinsically excitable, revealing distinct characteristics of self‐generated T‐tubular action potentials.
This active electrical capability would protect cells from voltage drops potentially occurring within the T‐tubular network.
Buoyancy and Velocity Field Synergy Principle in Convective Heat Transfer and Its Role in Thermo-Hydraulic Performance Improvement
Authors: Yang Dong , Hu Xinyue , Chen Feilong , Liu Yingli 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This study proposes the buoyancy and velocity field synergy principle and aims to enhance thermo-hydraulic performance in convective heat transfer. A mechanical energy conservation equation concerning synergy between buoyancy and velocity was derived, which describes the mechanical energy transport and dissipation in convective heat transfer. Two new field synergy numbers, FsU,g and FsU,∇p, were proposed to characterize the degree of synergy between velocity and buoyancy, and the degree of synergy between velocity and pressure gradient over the fluid domain, respectively. The pressure drop of a channel subjected to convective heat transfer is related to not only Gr/Re2 but also FsU,g. Under a same Gr/Re2, a larger |FsU,g| leads to a smaller |FsU,∇p|, and thus the pressure drop is decreased. Furthermore, the multifield synergetic relationships among buoyancy, velocity, temperature gradient and pressure gradient were analyzed for convective heat transfer in channels. The correlation between FsU,∇p and (Gr/Re2)FsU,g, and the correlation between FsU,g and a traditional field synergy number characterizing convective heat transfer capability, Fc, were derived, which reveals the coupled mechanisms of mechanical energy dissipation and thermal energy transport in convective heat transfer. The proposed principle was applied in typical channel flows subjected to convective heat transfer, and its benefits were demonstrated. It is noted that both pressure drop reduction and convective heat transfer enhancement can be achieved in convective heat transfer using the proposed principle. This paper provides a new insight for improving thermo-hydraulic performance of heat exchangers.
Comparative Studies of Microstructural, Mechanical, and Tribological Behavior of A319 Alloy Cast in Solid Waste Mold and Conventional Sand Mold
Authors: Sinha Nitesh Kumar , Choudhary Ishwari Narain , Prasad Rabindra , Mahali Manik , Kumar Mukesh Raushan , Singh Jayant Kumar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This study investigates the potential of utilizing industrial solid waste (blast furnace slag, ferrochrome slag, and red mud) as mold materials to improve the solidification rate and wear resistance of A319 alloy. Unlike conventional molds such as silica sand and olivine sand, industrial solid waste poses an eco-friendly alternative, contributing to waste valorization. The motivation for this research drives the need for sustainable and efficient waste management practices in the industrial sector. By exploring the utilization of industrial solid waste as a mold material, the study aims to address the current challenges in disposal, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the overall performance of A319 alloy through improved solidification and wear resistance. The experimental phase involved multi-factor reciprocating sliding wear tests conducted on a sample using a linear reciprocating tribometer, employing a steel ball as a counter face. The investigation of reciprocating wear characteristics aimed to assess the correlations between solidification rate and wear properties of a specimen cast in an industrial solid waste mold as well as a sand mold. Notably, tribological test results revealed a low wear-rate of 3.3 mg/km for the blast furnace slag mold. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image of the wear surface showed adhesive wear mechanisms. This study contributes valuable insights into the potential environmental and performance advantages of repurposing industrial solid waste for foundry applications.