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Background: Feedback plays an integral role in clinical training and can profoundly impact students' motivation and academic progression. The shift to online teaching, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted the necessity of transitioning traditional feedback mechanisms to digital platforms. Despite this, there is still a lack of clarity regarding effective strategies and tools for delivering digital feedback in clinical education. This scoping review aimed to assess the current utilization of digital feedback methods in clinical education, with a focus on identifying potential directions for future research and innovation. Methods: A database search using a published protocol based on the Joanna Briggs Institute framework was conducted between January 2010 and December 2023. Six databases were searched, PubMed/MEDLINE, EBSCOhost, Scopus, Google Scholar, Union Catalogue of Theses and Dissertations, and WorldCat Dissertations and Theses. Reviewers independently screened the papers against eligibility criteria and discussed the papers to attain consensus. Extracted data were analyzed qualitatively and descriptively. Results: Of the 2412 records identified, 33 reports met the inclusion criteria. Digital tools explored for feedback included web-based and social sites, smart device applications, virtual learning environments, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence. Convenience and immediate, personalized feedback and enhanced formative assessment outcomes were major facilitators of digital feedback utility. Technical constraints, limited content development, training, and data security issues hindered the adoption of these tools. Reports mostly comprised empirical research, published in the global North and conducted on undergraduates studying medicine. Conclusion: This review highlighted a geographical imbalance in research on feedback exchange via digital tools for clinical training and stressed the need for increased studies in the global South. Furthermore, there is a call for broader exploration across other health professions and postgraduate education. Additionally, student perceptions of digital tools as intrusive necessitate a balanced integration with traditional feedback dialogues. The incorporation of virtual reality and artificial intelligence presents promising opportunities for personalized, real-time feedback, but requires vigilant governance to ensure data integrity and privacy. Scoping review protocol: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-022-02151-8 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play an indispensable role in China's economy through making huge contributions to GDP, national employment, financial innovation and government taxation. However, SMEs in China have long faced financing constraints due to their inherent problems, such as financial information asymmetry, immature governance mechanisms, and lack of collateral under the traditional financial system, which have hindered their long-term development. In recent years, financial technology (Fintech) has entered a rapid development track, especially in China, providing new ideas and methods for solving the financing difficulties of SMEs from a technical perspective. In order to examine this, this paper measures the degree of financing constraints through the cash flow sensitivity of cash model and explores how the Fintech development affects financing constraints of SMEs in China and how this impact further communicated to the performance and the risks of SMEs by adopting two-way fixed effects models. The results show that Fintech could alleviate the financing constraints of SMEs. Furthermore, the mediating role of ownership is identified, presenting a better mitigating effect of Fintech on the financing constraints for private SMEs. In addition, both the performance and the risks of SMEs showed the upward single-sided U-shaped relationship with the increase of the Fintech development index, which indicates that Fintech could amplify performance while magnifying the risks of SMEs. The findings of this paper offer an important implication for China that regulatory authorities should consider and balance the financing constraint mitigation effect and risk amplification effect of Fintech. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey was conducted on 302 Sweden dairy farms (response rate 98%) to identify grazing and grassland management strategies and main challenges to grazing in northern Sweden. The most common grazing strategy on all dairy farms was continuous grazing (59%) followed by rotational grazing (45%), while organic dairy farms preferentially adopted rotational grazing (69%). The main challenges reported in grazing dairy cows on temporary grasslands on conventional farms were trampling damage and seasonal variations in grass growth, while for organic dairy farmers, the primary challenge was weed control. Only a few farms had grazing on semi-natural grasslands. Future sustainable grazing should focus on optimising grazing strategy in relation to on-farm grazing locations and nutrient supply for high-yielding dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspiration pneumonia results from the abnormal entry of fluids into the respiratory tract. We present a review of drugs known to affect the risk of aspiration. Drugs that increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia can be broadly divided into those that affect protective reflexes (like cough and swallowing) due to direct or indirect mechanisms, and drugs that facilitate gastric dysbiosis or affect esophageal and intestinal motility. Chief among the first group are benzodiazepines and antipsychotics, while proton pump inhibitors are the most well-studied in the latter group. Pill esophagitis may also exacerbate swallowing dysfunction. On the other hand, some research has also focused on pharmaceutical modulation of the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors have been demonstrated to be associated with a decrease in the hazard of aspiration pneumonia in high-risk patients of Chinese or Japanese origin. Drugs like amantadine, nicergoline, or folic acid have shown some promising results in stroke patients, although the available evidence is thus far not enough to allow for any meaningful conclusions. Importantly, antimicrobial prophylaxis has been proven to be ineffective. Focusing on modifiable risk factors for aspiration pneumonia is relevant since this may help to reduce the incidence of this often severe problem. Among these, several commonly used drug classes have been shown to increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia. These drugs should be withheld in the high-risk population whenever possible, alongside general measures, such as the semirecumbent position during sleep and feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This multiple case study describes error-reaction patterns (ERPs) in middle school science lessons. Twenty-seven science teachers' reactions to student errors were explored in terms of four aspects of classroom discourse: talk move, discursive purpose, communicative approach, and patterns of interaction. Two hundred ninety-six error-reaction occurrence moments captured from 4089 min of science lessons were analyzed. Nine types of ERPs were extracted around three higher-order categories. monologic declarative and dialectical. The study presents evidence that the declarative error reactions may be a pre-condition to enacting the dialectical ERPs, and the occurrence of ERPs may be teacher-specific. Educational implications are offered regarding the science teacher's noticing of the ERPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have evaluated the use of social media as learning aids in tertiary education. Emerging research in this area has focused primarily on non-quantitative approaches to student social media engagement. However, quantitative engagement outcomes may be extracted from student posts, comments, likes, and views. The goal of the present review was to provide a research-informed taxonomy of quantitative and behavior-based metrics of student social media engagement. We selected 75 empirical studies comprising a pooled sample of 11,605 tertiary education students. Included studies used social media for educational purposes and reported student social media engagement outcomes (source databases: PsycInfo and ERIC). We used independent raters and stringent interrater agreement and data extraction processes to mitigate bias during the screening of references. Over half of the studies (52%, n = 39) utilized ad hoc interviews and surveys to estimate student social media engagement, whereas thirty-three studies (44%) used some form of quantitative analysis of engagement. Based on this literature, we present a selection of count-based, time-based, and text-analysis metrics. The proposed taxonomy of engagement metrics resulting provides the methodological basis for the analysis of social media behavior in educational settings, particularly, for human operant and behavioral education studies. Implications for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Productive peer interactions are often characterized by productive peer talk moves. This study aims to synthesize an empirical list of productive peer talk moves from existing studies, quantify the efficacy of talk moves in promoting peer interaction and collaboration outcomes, and understand the preconditions of talk moves benefits in authentic settings. A total of 24 empirical studies were included in the systematic review, where 17 of the experimental studies (k = 39, n = 2636) were analyzed in meta-synthesis. The study offers three main contributions: (1) an ordered list of 24 productive peer talk moves extracted from a range of empirical studies; (2) the aggregate sizes of the positive effects that productive peer talk moves have on interaction quality (Hedges' g = 1.27), domain-specific knowledge (g = 0.96), domain-general knowledge (g = 1.02), and solution quality (g = 0.70); and (3) common explanations for the malfunction of productive peer talk moves in existing interventions. This review confirms the robust positive effects of productive peer talk moves on peer interaction, learning, and problem-solving, and may inform future research on the analysis of peer interaction or the design of peer talk scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coexistence of depression with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been associated with poorer outcomes. Studies have questioned the safety of antidepressants in patients with COPD. This review shows the potential relationships and the possible mechanisms and gives us good warnings on how to approach this problem. Treatment should be both non-pharmacological and pharmacological, but importantly tailored to the individual patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Electric circuit concepts in physics are abstract in nature and students find it difficult to comprehend. Purpose: This study was designed to compare the impact of three different strategies: simulation, hands-on and a combined strategy in enhancing conceptual understanding on electric circuit for class X students. Design: A mixed method with quasi-experimental research design was used. Sample: A total of 71 students participated in three comparative groups. Method: The comparative group 1 was taught using simulation, comparative group 2 with a combined strategy, and a comparative group 3 with hands-on activities. The quantitative data were collected through standard norm-referenced pre- and post-test from all the comparative groups and the qualitative data was collected through semi-structured focused-group interview. Result: The study concluded that a combined strategy was more effective in enhancing conceptual understanding of electric circuit concepts in comparison to the use of simulation and hands-on strategies. This is because the participants were able to master the gaps of their learning from one strategy by the other strategy. However, there was a mixed opinion between the simulation and hands-on strategy. The post-test result revealed that simulation was more effective, whereas the interview revealed that hands-on strategy was more effective for students to understand the electric circuit concept. Nevertheless, the study recommends the future researchers to test and verify the effectiveness of this strategy by implementing it in teaching higher electric circuit concepts like resistivity, Kirchoff's laws and other physics topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study utilizes the risk and resilience framework to understand the risk and protective correlates of moderate to high levels of juvenile justice involvement among post-adjudicated young women (N = 365). This exploratory model-building method utilized cross-sectional administrative data collected through the Positive Achievement Change Tool. The analysis yielded the best model using five social history factors, including the age at the time of probation, involvement in structured activities, running away from home, mental health history, and antisocial attitudes and behaviors. Results revealed that those with a history of mental health problems or running away from home had higher odds of having a high level of juvenile justice involvement compared with a lower level of involvement. Moreover, younger women were more likely to have moderate or high levels of juvenile justice involvement than a low level of involvement. Interventions should focus on holistically addressing individual, family, and community factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces the development of a new, transferable, customizable, authentic, and analytic framework for addressing different dimensions of teacher reflection. Given the emphasis on teacher reflection as a socially situated practice spawned by cognitive and affective aspects, this study covers four dimensions (i.e., breadth, depth, dialog, and affectivity). Ultimately and importantly, this empirical study constructs and validates an innovative vignette-based instrument and its analytic coding scheme on the basis of this framework for assessing the quality of reflection of elementary science teachers. The instrument includes eight vignettes, which include various authentic science teaching contexts, followed by three open-ended questions for each vignette to prompt teacher reflection on (1) the issues raised in the vignette, (2) the actions that could be taken to solve the problems, and (3) teacher emotions concerning the problems encountered. The instrument is validated through content, construct, internal, and face validity; and audit trial and inter-coder reliability are used to ensure the reliability of the data and findings. In summary, the study recruits 81 elementary science teachers from 24 public elementary schools in urban and suburban schools in Ankara for two reasons: (1) to ensure that the vignettes are clear and authentic as intended and (2) to develop a coding scheme involving descriptions and indicators of behaviors for each dimension of reflection quality accordingly to assess the quality of teacher reflection. For data analysis, once statistical conclusion validity and inter-coder reliability are established and a high percentage of agreement is obtained for each dimension across all vignettes (a > 0.70), content validity is once again explored by assessing whether the guiding framework of the instrument capture teacher reflections. The results indicate that the instrument can be an effective tool for assessing the quality of reflection of elementary science teachers. The preliminary validity and reliability of the vignettes and the coding scheme suggest that the vignettes warrant further testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer remains a multifactorial disease with an increased mortality rate around the world for the past several decades. Despite advancements in treatment strategies, lower survival rates, drug-associated side effects, and drug resistance create a need for novel anticancer agents. Ample evidence shows that imbalances in the gut microbiota are associated with the formation of cancer and its progression. Altering the gut microbiota via probiotics and their metabolites has gained attention among the research community as an alternative therapy to treat cancer. Probiotics exhibit health benefits as well as modulate the immunological and cellular responses in the host. Apart from probiotics, their secreted products like bacteriocins, exopolysaccharides, short-chain fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid, peptidoglycan, and other metabolites are found to possess anticancer activity. The beneficiary role of these postbiotic compounds is widely studied for characterizing their mechanism and mode of action that reduces cancer growth. The present review mainly focuses on the postbiotic components that are employed against cancer with their reported mechanism of action. It also describes recent research works carried out so far with specific strain and anticancer activity of derived compounds both in vitro and in vivo , validating that the probiotic approach would pave an alternative way to reduce the burden of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of a circular supply chain (CSC) has potential to help the Irish dairy industry mitigate their negative environmental impacts. However, the industry does not have a clear understanding on their level of readiness to implement CSC in factors that ensure success. While there have been few studies that have identified barriers and critical success factors of CSC implementation, limited attention has been given to developing a comprehensive framework capable of measuring an industry's readiness for CSC implementation, especially in the dairy industry. This study provides novelty in the development and application of a novel hybrid approach based on best–worst method and fuzzy inference system (BWM–FIS) to evaluate readiness for CSC implementation in the Irish dairy industry. By identifying a comprehensive set of readiness measures and sub-measures and integrating them into the assessment framework, we provide a valuable tool for industry stakeholders to gauge their readiness level and make informed decisions regarding CSC implementation. The applicability of the proposed approach is then demonstrated with an empirical study of the Irish dairy industry. The data was collected from 34 supply chain and senior professionals from all 13 main processing and manufacturing companies in the Irish dairy industry. The empirical results for the Irish dairy industry suggests it has a moderate level of readiness on the CSC readiness scale. This indicates that dairy manufacturers in Ireland are not yet in an ideal state of readiness for CSC implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biosynthesizing conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) using food processing by-products offers a practical and efficient method for producing this valuable compound, delivering health benefits, promoting sustainability, and providing economic advantages. Here, we optimized the fermentation conditions for in situ biosynthesis of CLA using Bacillus coagulans IBRC-M 10807, with grapeseed oil by-product providing the linoleic acid precursor, focusing on temperature, pH, incubation time, concentrations of grapeseed oil and yeast extract. The total CLA was measured using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer at 233 nm, and the concentration was evaluated using a standard curve of conjugated linoleic acid. To analyze the isomers and identify the functional groups of biosynthesized CLA, gas chromatography (GC) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used, respectively. The results indicated that the maximum amount of CLA production was 225.37 ± 0.74 μg/mL, obtained under optimal conditions: an initial pH of 6.8, a temperature of 44.8°C, an incubation time of 48 h, a grapeseed oil concentration of 1,000 μg/mL, and a yeast extract concentration of 3.88%. Characterization of the produced CLA revealed two main isomers--CLA 1: c-9, t-11 C18:2, and CLA 2: t-10, c-12 C18:2 methyl esters. These results suggest that B. coagulans has high potential to produce CLA as a bioactive compound, offering an excellent opportunity for use in various industries, including nutraceuticals, foods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, there is a significant "digital divide" in the agricultural sector between developing and developed countries. Such a digital disparity has negative consequences on the international competitiveness of these countries and their ability to comply with Food Satefy Standards. We propose a theoretical model to analyze the role of smart agriculture in the ability of countries to comply with international food safety regulations, specifically the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for contaminants such as aflatoxins, pesticides, and heavy metals. Firstly, we show that reducing the digital divide will always improve international food safety and food security (availability of a global supply). However, it can lead to more intense international competition, potentially causing a perverse effect: underinvestment in good agricultural practices by more digitally advanced countries. Furthermore, the digital catch-up of less advanced countries cannot sufficiently reduce health risks in international markets unless accompanied by strengthening official food control systems. Finally, we show that such digital catch-up encourages lowering MRLs rather than relaxing them, contrary to what producers or authorities might hope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significance: Tissues like skin have a layered structure where each layer's optical properties vary significantly. However, traditional diffuse reflectance spectroscopy assumes a homogeneous medium, often leading to estimations that reflects the properties of neither layer. There's a clear need for probes that can precisely measure the optical properties of layered tissues. Aim: This paper aims to design a diffuse reflectance probe capable of accurately estimating the optical properties of bilayer tissues in the subdiffusive regime. Approach: Using Monte Carlo simulations, we evaluated key geometric factors--fiber placement, tilt angle, diameter, and numerical aperture--on optical property estimation, following the methodology in Part I. A robust design is proposed that balances accurate intrinsic optical property (IOP) calculations with practical experimental constraints. Results: The designed probe, featuring eight illumination and eight detection fibers with varying spacings and tilt angles. The estimation error of the IOP calculation for bilayer phantoms is less than 20% for top layers with thicknesses between 0.2 and 1.0 mm. Conclusion: Building on the approach from Part I and using a precise calibration, the probe effectively quantified and distinguished the IOPs of bilayer samples, particularly those relevant to early skin pathology detection and characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significance: As biological tissues are highly heterogeneous, there is a great interest in developing non-invasive optical approaches capable of characterizing them in a very localized manner. Obtaining accurate absolute values of the local optical properties from the measured reflectance requires finding a probe geometry, which allows us to solve this inverse problem robustly and reliably despite neglecting the higher-order moments of the scattering phase function. Aim: Our goal is to develop a theoretical framework for designing tilted-fiber diffuse reflectance probes that allow quantitative estimation of the optical properties corresponding to limited tissue volume (typically a few cubic millimeters). Approach: Relationships among probe geometry, sampled tissue volume, and robustness of the inverse solver to calculate optical properties from reflectance are studied using Monte Carlo simulations. Results: The analysis of the number of scattering events of the collected photons leads to the establishment of relationships among the probe geometry, the sampled tissue volume, and the validity of a subdiffusive regime for the reflectance. Conclusions: A methodology is proposed for the design of new compact probes with tilted fiber geometry that can quantitatively estimate the values of the optical coefficients in a localized manner within living biological tissues by recording diffuse reflectance spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To explore parents' experiences of unsettled babies and medical labels. Design: Qualitative systematic review, thematic synthesis and development of a conceptual model. Review Methods: Systematic review and thematic synthesis of primary, qualitative research into parents' experiences of unsettled babies <12 months of age. 'Unsettled' was defined as perception of excessive crying with additional feature(s) such as vomiting, skin or stool problems. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist was used to assess trustworthiness. Data Sources: Structured searches completed in CINAHL, Medline, Embase, PsychINFO and CochraneCT on 23 March 2022 and rerun on 14 April 2023. Results: Ten eligible studies were included across eight countries contributing data from 103 mothers and 24 fathers. Two analytical themes and eight descriptive themes were developed. Firstly, parents expressed fearing judgement, feeling guilty and out of control as a result of babies' unsettled symptoms and seeking strategies to construct an 'Identity as a "Good Parent"'. This desire for positive parenting identity underpinned the second analytical theme 'Searching for an explanation' which included seeking external (medical) causes for babies' unsettled behaviours. Conclusion: Parents can become trapped in a cycle of 'searching for an explanation' for their baby's unsettled behaviours, experiencing considerable distress which is exacerbated by feelings of guilt and failure. Impact and Implications for Patient Care: Insight gained from this review could inform interventions to support parents, reducing inaccurate medicalization. Health visiting teams supporting parents with unsettled baby behaviour could focus on supporting a positive parenting identity by managing expectations, normalizing the continuum of infant behaviours, reducing feelings of guilt or uncertainty and helping parents regain a feeling of control. Reporting Method: ENTREQ guidelines were adhered to in the reporting of this review. Patient or Public Contribution: Parent input was crucial in the design phase; shaping the language used (e.g., 'unsettled babies') and in the analysis sense‐checking findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household food and water insecurity has been previously associated with adverse health consequences in children. However, these relationships are understudied in middle‐income Latin American populations such as in Ecuador, where a high prevalence of food and water insecurity has been reported. Using cross‐sectional data from 2018 Ecuadorian National Health and Nutrition Survey, we examined the association of household food insecurity (HFI), household water insecurity (HWI), and concurrent HFI‐HWI with diarrhoea, respiratory illness (RI), and stunting in 20,510 children aged ≤59 months. HFI was measured using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale. HWI was defined when households responded negatively to one or more of four drinking water indicators. Maternal caregivers reported on child diarrhoea and RI episodes during the previous 2 weeks. Measured length or height was used to assess stunting. We constructed log‐binomial regression models to estimate the associations of HFI, HWI, and concurrent HFI‐HWI with child outcomes. Moderate‐severe HFI was associated with a higher prevalence of diarrhoea (PR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.18, 1.63) and RI (PR = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.22, 1.47), HWI with a higher prevalence of RI (PR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.22), and concurrent HFI‐HWI with a higher prevalence of diarrhoea (PR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.62) and RI (PR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.29, 1.62). Stunting was not associated with HFI, HWI nor concurrent HFI‐HWI. These findings suggest that HFI and HWI can independently and jointly act to negatively affect children's health. Policies and interventions aimed at alleviating both food and water insecurity are needed to bring sustained health improvements in Ecuadorian children. Key messages: High prevalence of household food insecurity, household water insecurity, and concurrent household food and water insecurity exist in Ecuadorian households.Household food insecurity and household water insecurity were independently associated with detrimental health outcomes in Ecuadorian infants and young children.Infants and young children experiencing concurrent moderate‐severe household food insecurity and household water insecurity appear to be particularly vulnerable to diarrhoea and respiratory illness symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interest in Professional Development (PD) in learning and teaching in Higher Education (HE) has seen an increase in the last few years owing to the evolving role of HE teaching academics in the futures of students and their employment. In Australia, while there is evidence that research in learning and teaching PD is growing, these studies appear sporadic and confined to predetermined disciplinary boundaries. From a practice perspective, the fragmented nature of the literature confounds the issues related to the uptake of learning and teaching PD by academics. It is proposed that a scoping literature review of studies of learning and teaching PD in Australian universities is necessary in identifying attributes within the sector, and will illustrate the gaps in the literature related to professional practice. A typology of the interrelated patterns of the attributes that emerge from the scoping review is presented. This typology has practical implications for both teaching academics and academic developers who respectively engage with and implement PD strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-quality instruction in preschool is important for children's mathematical development. To date, the domain-specific elements constituting mathematics instruction quality and the factors associated with this quality are hardly studied, resulting in serious gaps in our insights into the topic. We aimed to address this gap by investigating (a) 43 preschool teachers' mathematical questioning behavior during shared picture book reading, and (b) its association with picture book and teacher characteristics. We analyzed the number and the level of abstraction of mathematical questions when sharing a mathematical (i.e., written with explicit mathematical aim and content) and a non-mathematical (i.e., written without explicit mathematical aim and content) picture book, and their associations with teachers' professional competence. For mathematical and non-mathematical picture books, teachers formulated mathematical questions, mainly at lower levels of abstraction. They formulated more, but proportionally less abstract, mathematical questions when sharing a mathematical versus a non-mathematical picture book. We found only limited evidence for associations between teachers' questioning behavior and their professional competence. Our findings indicate that preschool teachers offer opportunities to engage in mathematical interaction during shared picture book reading, pointing to the potential of this activity to implement high-quality mathematics instruction. They further show that mathematical picture books enable more mathematical interaction than non-mathematical picture books, but not at higher levels of abstraction. Future studies are needed to replicate and complement our findings, with special attention for the contribution of teacher professional competence and the fit to children's competency level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildfire is a critical ecological disturbance in terrestrial ecosystems. Australia, in particular, has experienced increasingly large and severe wildfires over the past 2 decades, while globally fire risk is expected to increase significantly due to projected increases in extreme weather and drought conditions. Therefore, understanding and predicting fire severity is critical for evaluating current and future impacts of wildfires on ecosystems. Here, we first introduce a vegetation-type-specific fire severity classification applied to satellite imagery, which is further used to predict fire severity during the fire season (November to March) using antecedent drought conditions, fire weather (i.e. wind speed, air temperature, and atmospheric humidity), and topography. Compared to fire severity maps from the fire extent and severity mapping (FESM) dataset, we find that fire severity prediction results using the vegetation-type-specific thresholds show good performance in extreme- and high-severity classification, with accuracies of 0.64 and 0.76, respectively. Based on a "leave-one-out" cross-validation experiment, we demonstrate high accuracy for both the fire severity classification and the regression using a suite of performance metrics: the determination coefficient (R2), mean absolute error (MAE), and root-mean-square error (RMSE), which are 0.89, 0.05, and 0.07, respectively. Our results also show that the fire severity prediction results using the vegetation-type-specific thresholds could better capture the spatial patterns of fire severity and have the potential to be applicable for seasonal fire severity forecasts due to the availability of seasonal forecasts of the predictor variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the use of Large Language Models (LLMs), specifically GPT-4, in analysing classroom dialogue—a key task for teaching diagnosis and quality improvement. Traditional qualitative methods are both knowledge- and labour-intensive. This research investigates the potential of LLMs to streamline and enhance this process. Using datasets from middle school mathematics and Chinese classes, classroom dialogues were manually coded by experts and then analysed with a customised GPT-4 model. The study compares manual annotations with GPT-4 outputs to evaluate efficacy. Metrics include time efficiency, inter-coder agreement, and reliability between human coders and GPT-4. Results show significant time savings and high coding consistency between the model and human coders, with minor discrepancies. These findings highlight the strong potential of LLMs in teaching evaluation and facilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to verify whether adding a combination of additives (blend) to the diet of dairy calves after weaning can improve animal performance and health and influence the profile of ruminal short-chain fatty acids and intestinal microbiota. Methods: We used 35 Holstein calves, males, with an average age of 70 days and an average body weight of 68 kg. The treatments used were negative control (T-0: without additive), positive control (T-Control: flavomycin + monensin), T-500 (500 g blend/ton), T-1000 (1000 g blend/ton), and T-1500 (1500 g blend/ton). The additives were classified as zootechnical (probiotics, prebiotics, and essential oils of cinnamon and oregano) and nutritional additive (minerals). Results: Weight gain and daily weight gain were higher for calves in the T-Control, T-500, and T-1000 groups. The concentration of heavy-chain immunoglobulins was higher in the blood of calves in the T-Control and T-500 groups when compared to the other groups. In the T-1500 groups, higher levels of reactive oxygen species were observed, while, in the T-0 and T-1500 groups, higher levels of TBARS and glutathione S-transferase activity were detected. The 15 abundant microorganisms in the calves' feces, regardless of treatment, were Treponema suis, Treponema saccharophilum, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Pseudoflavonifractor sp., Roseburia faecis, Rikenellaceae, Enterobacteriaceae_f, Clostridium sp., Roseburia intestinalis, Aeromonadales_o, Prevotella copri, Treponema succinifaciens, Eubacterium sp., Treponema porcium, and Succinivibrio sp. The T-1000 group showed greater alpha diversity for the intestinal microbiota than T-Control, T-0, and T-500. The additive combination (T-1000) increased the bacterial activity in the ruminal fluid, and the animals of T-1000 had a higher concentration of short-chain fatty acids compared to T-0 and T-1500; this difference is because, in these calves, the production of acetic, butyric, and propionic acid increased. Conclusions: The combination of additives had positive effects on animal health, ruminal volatile fatty acid production, and intestinal microbiota, resulting in animals with more significant weight gain and feed efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive decline in cognitive function, which significantly increases pain and social burden. However, few therapeutic interventions are effective in preventing or mitigating the progression of AD. An increasing number of recent studies support the hypothesis that the gut microbiome and its metabolites may be associated with upstream regulators of AD pathology. Methods: In this review, we comprehensively explore the potential mechanisms and currently available interventions targeting the microbiome for the improvement of AD. Our discussion is structured around modern research advancements in AD, the bidirectional communication between the gut and brain, the multi-target regulatory effects of microbial metabolites on AD, and therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating gut microbiota to manage AD. Results: The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AD through continuous bidirectional communication via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Among these, microbial metabolites such as lipids, amino acids, bile acids and neurotransmitters, especially sphingolipids and phospholipids, may serve as central components of the gut-brain axis, regulating AD-related pathogenic mechanisms including ß-amyloid metabolism, Tau protein phosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Additionally, interventions such as probiotic administration, fecal microbiota transplantation, and antibiotic use have also provided evidence supporting the association between gut microbiota and AD. At the same time, we propose an innovative strategy for treating AD: a healthy lifestyle combined with targeted probiotics and other potential therapeutic interventions, aiming to restore intestinal ecology and microbiota balance. Conclusion: Despite previous efforts, the molecular mechanisms by which gut microbes act on AD have yet to be fully described. However, intestinal microorganisms may become an essential target for connecting the gut-brain axis and improving the symptoms of AD. At the same time, it requires joint exploration by multiple centers and multiple disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 30 and 40% of 18-year olds in England, Wales and Northern Ireland enter tertiary education (university) each year. Young adulthood (ages 15 to 25) is the usual period in which problems with alcohol, drugs or other behaviors begin to emerge, and yet these issues have received limited study in the UK. Government policy dictates that a full continuum of treatment and recovery services should be available in each area of the country, but uptake of these services by university students appears to be limited. In this discussion paper we describe the background to, and components of, the Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP), an initiative that has grown rapidly in the USA in the past decade. We then describe how the first UK University-led CRP was set up, before outlining what has been learnt so far and the potential challenges facing this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In urban South Africa, community-based social enterprises (CBSEs) face challenges at the intersection of financial and environmental sustainability and social purpose. These enterprises address social exclusion and community development within complex institutional environments. Despite increasing governmental support, CBSEs struggle with historical inequalities, resource limitations, high poverty levels, inadequate infrastructure, and complex social dynamics. These challenges contribute to a high failure rate among SMMEs, including CBSEs, which represent approximately 71% of community-level businesses. This study examines how complex system dynamics in marginalized South African suburbs impact the sustainable leadership and resilience of CBSEs. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the study conducted 15 in-depth semi-structured interviews with CBSE leaders. The findings revealed that effective leadership in CBSEs requires extraordinary abilities to traverse complexity, adapt to changes, and engage in dynamic organizational change. The key themes identified included adaptive and flexible leadership, interdependencies and network collaboration, community engagement and co-creation, continuous learning and feedback loops, policy influence and response, and resource utilization and constraints. By applying complex systems leadership theory (CSLT) and sustainable leadership principles, the research offers insights into the mechanisms enabling CBSEs to thrive in challenging environments. These findings contribute to Social Enterprise Management and Leadership Studies, providing practical implications for policymakers and practitioners to support CBSE development and sustainability in marginalized urban communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruminant livestock are major contributors to anthropogenic methane emissions in the United States and worldwide. Enteric methane is generated by methanogenic archaea residing in ruminant digestive tracts. Information on when methanogens colonize the gut and when they begin to interact with bacteria during the early phases of the ruminant life cycle is less explored. The objectives of this study were (i) to investigate the composition of the methanogenic archaeal community at birth and through the weaning transition and (ii) to determine if and when the methanogenic archaea begin to interact with bacteria in the lower gut of neonatal dairy calves. Ten female Holstein calves (approximately 45kg birth weight) were enrolled in the study. Fecal samples were collected every two weeks (Wk 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12) between birth and weaning and analyzed for methanogenic archaeal diversity via 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Estimates of alpha diversity (Observed species, and Shannon diversity index) and beta diversity (weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances) showed significant differences (P < 0.05) between archaeal communities across timepoints. Both 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and RT-qPCR analyses revealed Methanobrevibacter was the most prevalent genus at Wk2, Wk4, and Wk6, whereas Methanosphaera gradually increased with time and was most abundant at Wk10 and Wk12. Correlation analysis revealed that Methanobrevibacter and Methanosphaera were inversely correlated with each other and formed distinct cohorts with specific bacterial lineages similar to those reported in the mature rumen, thus revealing that these associations are established during the preweaning period. Therefore, the preweaning period presents a window of opportunity to interfere with early-life methanogenic colonization with the ultimate goal of reducing enteric methane emissions without perturbing ruminal function later in the life of dairy cattle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) to enhance student well-being in STEM classrooms within South African higher education. South Africa has long struggled with low enrolment and poor performance in STEM subjects, impaired by inadequate teacher training, teaching methodologies, and psychological factors such as anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic has further emphasized the need for resourcefulness in education, highlighting the potential benefits of technology and indigenous knowledge in mitigating these challenges. The researchers investigate the synergy between ICT and IKS in reducing stress and anxiety among STEM students and educators. The study employs a critical reflective approach to analyze existing literature and derive a preliminary framework. This framework includes criteria for integrating IKS into STEM curricula, strategies for using ICT and IKS synergistically, and professional development for STEM teachers in the era of decolonization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The study concludes by proposing twelve preliminary criteria for the effective use of ICT and IKS to address psychological challenges in STEM education. These criteria aim to promote a holistic, inclusive, and culturally relevant learning environment that leverages both traditional knowledge and modern technological advancements. However, the study's reliance on theoretical perspectives without empirical testing may affect the validation of the proposed criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interoceptive homeostatic reflex monitors levels of CO2/H+ to maintain blood gas homeostasis and rapidly regulate tissue acid–base balance by driving lung ventilation and CO2 excretion—this CO2-evoked increase in respiration is the hypercapnic ventilatory reflex (HCVR). Retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) neurons provide crucial excitatory drive to downstream respiratory rhythm/pattern-generating circuits, and their activity is directly modulated by changes in CO2/H+ . RTN neurons express GPR4 and TASK-2, global deletion of which abrogates CO2/H+ activation of RTN neurons and the HCVR. It has not been determined if the intrinsic pH sensitivity of these proton detectors is required for these effects. We used CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to generate mice with mutations in either of two pH-sensing histidine residues in GPR4 to determine effects on RTN neuronal CO2/H+ sensitivity and the HCVR. In global GPR4(H81F) and GPR4(H167F) mice, CO2-stimulated breathing and CO2-induced RTN neuronal activation were strongly blunted, with no effect on hypoxia-stimulated breathing. In brainstem slices from GPR4(H81F) mice, peak firing of RTN neurons during bath acidification was significantly reduced compared with GPR4 wild-type mice, and a subpopulation of RTN neurons was rendered pH-insensitive, phenocopying previous results from GPR4-deleted mice. These effects were independent of changes in RTN number/distribution, neuronal excitability or transcript levels for GPR4 and TASK-2. CO2-stimulated breathing was reduced to a similar extent in GPR4(H81F) and TASK-2-deleted mice, with combined mutation yielding no additional deficit in the HCVR. Together, these data demonstrate that the intrinsic pH sensitivity of GPR4 is necessary for full elaboration of the HCVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural educators constitute an integral segment of the teaching workforce, and the widespread integration of information technology has ushered in transformative changes in production methods and pedagogical approaches. These shifts have opened up auspicious avenues for elevating the professional competence of rural teachers. Higher education institutions have forged information platforms and harnessed network resources to create an interactive framework catering to the professional development of primary and secondary school teachers within their outreach areas. These university-driven information platforms and network resources play a pivotal role in advancing the professional growth of basic education teachers, focusing on augmenting their capacity for self-directed learning, refining their teaching and research management proficiencies, and instilling a culture of excellence in teacher education. This professional development is further facilitated through the establishment of an interactive information network platform, leveraging diverse communication channels such as blogs, QQ, and WeChat. Educational internships serve as valuable opportunities for teacher apprenticeship, enabling innovative pedagogical methods like micro-grid teaching and catechism to flourish. Strategies are employed to cultivate and enhance the information technology literacy of basic education teachers. This study not only elucidates these initiatives but also critically assesses their effectiveness, reliability, and comprehensiveness, culminating in discerning results and insightful recommendations that can further propel the professional growth of rural teachers in the digital age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores ICT profiles of teacher educators to understand personal, pedagogical and organisational factors affecting technology use in teacher education. After delineating latent profiles based on survey data, 12 teacher educators were interviewed on technology integration in educational settings for a deeper insight. Based on the Synthesis of Qualitative Research model developed to outline strategies for preparing preservice teachers to integrate technology, findings revealed key issues including teacher educators' classroom stance as role models for effective technology use, importance of technological-pedagogical content knowledge in designing technology-enriched learning environments, peer collaboration and avoidance of using technology regardless of pedagogical concerns. Issues related to assessment, professional development, attitudes and ICT competency were raised. Findings are discussed considering potential consequences for current practices and areas of future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mixtures with birdsfoot trefoil (BFT) increase herbage intake in grazing cattle. We hypothesized that BFT spatially separated from grasses would increase preferential grazing of BFT and herbage intake compared to grass and BFT in mixed rows. Methods: Binary mixtures of BFT were established with orchardgrass, meadow bromegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass in alternating and in mixed rows. Pastures were rotationally stocked with Jersey heifers, and herbage mass, intake, and preferential grazing were estimated. Results: Planting BFT in alternating rows did not affect herbage mass, intake, or BFT preference. Regardless of spatial arrangement, pasture production averaged 4116 kg ha−1 per rotation, of which 32% was BFT. BFT comprised 39% of herbage intake in alternating and mixed rows, 7% greater (p = 0.001) than offered, indicating partial preference for BFT. Greatest preferential grazing of BFT was in tall fescue and orchardgrass mixtures, but less than commonly reported for legumes grown in more contrasting spatial arrangements with cool‐season grasses. Conclusions: Grazing heifers showed partial preference for BFT over grass. However, the lack of an effect of spatial arrangement on herbage mass, herbage intake, and diet preference indicates that spatial arrangements greater than alternating rows may be needed to increase overall herbage intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The course of development of technology, its speed in the recent period and the point it has reached have led our relationship with technology to become a necessity rather than a choice. In this respect, teaching activities that are not intertwined with technology and do not include digital elements will remain as practices that will not go beyond the interest and expectations of students who are the subject of educational environments. This study, which examines the effect of digital content on listening skill in secondary school Turkish teaching, is at an important point in terms of showing the effect of digital elements on listening skill, which is the first learning channel of human beings and will continue until death, and which should be carefully emphasized in terms of forming the basis for other language skills. The sample of this study consists of 60 students in the seventh grade of a secondary school in Elazığ province. In the study, mixed research method was preferred as the method and sequential explanatory design was preferred as the design. Quasi-experimental design was used in the quantitative part of the study and phenomenology design was used in the qualitative part. In the quantitative part of the study, there was one control and one experimental group. In order to obtain quantitative data within the scope of the research, the Listening Skills Scale developed by Yalçın & Özcan (2022) was applied to the control and experimental groups as pre-test and post-test. The experimental and control groups were determined according to the pre-test results of the students participating in the study. In the qualitative part of the study, data were obtained from interviews with the students and these interviews were analyzed by content analysis. The results of the study showed that there was a significant difference between the listening skill scale scores of the students in the experimental and control groups in the post-test application in favor of the experimental group, there was a significant increase between the pre-test and post-test scores of the listening skill scale applied to the control group, and there was a significant difference between the pre and post-application listening skill scale scores of the experimental group. Considering the results obtained from the interviews, it was seen that listening practices enriched with digital content facilitated comprehension, digital content practices improved listening skills and created a desire to participate in new activities. At the end of the study, suggestions were made for researchers, educators and related institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strategies used to associate peptide arginylglycylaspartic acid (RGD) with calcium phosphate grafts to enhance cell–biomaterial interactions have been controversial in the literature. Several works have demonstrated that RGD-functionalized hydroxyapatite (HA) surfaces improve cell adhesion, whereas others claim that RGD-loaded HA has an inhibitory effect when serum is present in the biological medium. To investigate such contradictory results, we associated RGD with the HA surface using physical adsorption and chemical bonding methods and evaluated the cell adhesion and spreading in pre-osteoblasts culture with and without fetal bovine serum (FBS). The effect of functionalization methods on the physicochemical characteristics of both surfaces was analyzed using multiscale techniques. Adsorption assays of serum allowed us to estimate the impact of the association method on the HA surface's reactivity. Physically adsorbed RGD did not increase the number of adhered cells due to the weak interactions between the peptide and the surface. Although chemical binding stabilizes RGD on the HA, the functionalization procedure covered the surface with molecules such as (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTEs) and carbodiimide, changing the surface's chemical activity. Serum protein adsorption decreased by 90%, revealing a significant reduction in the surface interactions with molecules of the biological medium. The present study's findings showed that the RGD's physical association with HA did not improve cell adhesion and that this phenomenon is highly dependent on the presence of serum proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Functional foods are foods that offer health benefits over and above their nutritional value. As eggs are a food of global importance, many authors believe that they are an ideal candidate for functional foods of the future, as it is possible to influence their chemical composition through production technology. Vitamins are one of the most important groups of micronutrients essential for human health, and eggs are recognised as an important source of vitamins in the diet, especially fat-soluble vitamins. The egg yolk contains large amounts of vitamins A, D, E and K. Eating two eggs a day covers 10% to 30% of a person's vitamin requirements. This paper reviews the results of a large number of researchers on the influence of various aspects of production technology on the content of fat-soluble vitamins in eggs. Most attention has been paid to the influence of vitamin supplements in feed for laying hens, but also to the influence of the rearing system and the genotype as well as the interaction between the vitamins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present study tested the efficacy of parenting program components in reducing disruptive or delinquent child behaviors at first post-treatment for families with children in early versus middle childhood. Methods: Eighty-five studies were identified, containing five parenting components (Psychoeducation [PE], Behavior management [BM], Relationship enhancement [RE], Parental self-management [SM], and Parent as a coach [PC]). Results: For both early and middle childhood, four parenting program components were effective, namely (1) BM, (2) BM with RE, (3) BM with SM, and (4) BM with PE and RE and SM and PC. However, BM with RE and SM, as well as BM with PE and RE and SM, were effective during early childhood. BM with RE appeared to be the most beneficial intervention during early childhood, while BM was most effective during middle childhood. Conclusion: The evidence highlights the need to implement different programmatic components developmentally, during early versus middle childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article takes stock of the current trends in research, policy and practice regarding the role of language in the dialogic classroom. The article uses the policies of two different educational jurisdictions as counterpoints to highlight the different ways that oral language can be positioned within primary curricula. It reflects on current and recent research literature, exploring how language can promote the collaborative learning that is central to dialogic pedagogy, highlighting the value of less formal registers or less 'certainty' in the proposal of ideas. The article then offers a linguistic-ethnographic analysis of what this looks like in practice, drawing on classroom observational data gathered in English primary schools. Finally, these three strands of theory, policy and practice are brought together, scoping ways forward for the inclusion of language and dialogue in primary education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Countries are looking to reduce their agricultural sector's carbon footprint while encouraging economic and environmental sustainability. One proposed method of making agriculture more sustainable while maintaining farm incomes is through the production of bioenergy feedstocks. We examine the spatial aspect of the production of renewable energy feedstocks in Ireland. Two feedstocks are looked at—grass silage and short‐rotation coppice (SRC) willow. Spatial microsimulation analysis is utilised to assess the spatial suitability for alternative land uses, simulating land‐use change to compare economic returns with the current agricultural use. A farm‐based carbon subsidy is modelled based on avoided agricultural emissions and carbon sequestered. We find that midlands counties, especially those in the north midlands, have the highest proportion of land where feedstocks would be more profitable than the current agricultural use. Counties on the western seaboard have the lowest proportion of land where feedstocks would give greater returns. The amount of land where feedstocks are more profitable increases as greater carbon subsidies are provided. Of the two feedstocks assessed, SRC willow cultivation is more profitable than grass silage production. The overwhelming majority of land where producing feedstocks would be more profitable has cattle farming as its current use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Little is known about how neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage influences sexual minority women's (e.g., lesbian, bisexual) mental health and whether minority stress moderates these associations. We examined the association between neighborhood deprivation and mental health and the potential moderating effects of minority stressors in a community-based sample of sexual minority women. Methods: Using data from Wave 4 of the Chicago Health and Life Experiences of Women study (N = 359, surveyed 2017–2019), we examined associations between census-tract deprivation—measured using the area deprivation index—and days of poor mental health, with moderation by minority stressors (LGBT community connectedness, internalized homophobia, concealment, stigma consciousness, gender presentation). We controlled for individual and neighborhood demographics and other stressors. Results: Higher area deprivation was unrelated to days of poor self-rated mental health in adjusted models, but effects were heterogeneous by gender presentation and LGBT community connectedness. As deprivation increased, more masculine and androgynous women evidenced no increased risks of poor mental health. However, among women presenting as neither masculine nor androgynous, risks were positively associated with deprivation (IRRs: 1.44 and 1.34, respectively). Unexpectedly, women with higher levels of LGBT community connectedness (IRR: 1.48) reported worse mental health as deprivation increased. No other minority stressor moderated associations. Conclusions: Gender presentation appears to be a key factor in the impact of neighborhood deprivation on poor mental health among sexual minority women; the relationship may be more complicated for community connectedness. Our findings suggest that to improve sexual minority women's mental health, interventions targeting deprivation ought to complement interventions targeting sexual minority stigma. Policy Implications: To improve mental health among sexual minority women, advocates must promote both broad economic policies and specific protective, anti-stigma policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fungal periprosthetic joint infection (FPJI) is an infrequent but devastating complication that imposes a heavy burden on patients. At present, a consensus regarding the most optimal surgical option for patients with FPJI, the ideal duration of systemic antifungal treatment, and many other issues has not been reached. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed on the PubMed and Embase databases. The search criteria employed were as follows: (fungal OR candida OR mycotic) AND periprosthetic joint infection. Initially, the titles and abstracts were screened, and subsequently, studies deemed irrelevant or duplicative were eliminated. Following this, the complete texts of remaining articles were thoroughly examined. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 489 joints in 24 articles were screened out. We further extracted the demographic characteristics (age, gender, body mass index, etc.), clinical presentation, fungal species, presence of bacterial coinfection, surgical methods, systemic and local antifungal therapy, and treatment outcomes. Subgroup data were analyzed according to fungal species and bacterial coinfection. Univariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to ascertain the risk factors associated with the infection recurrence. Results: A total of 506 fungi were identified within 489 joints. The most prevalent fungal species were Candida albicans (41.5%). Out of 247 joints (50.5%) presenting with concurrent fungal and bacterial infections. Among the initial surgical interventions, two-stage exchange was the most common (59.1%). The infection recurrence rates of DAIR, resection arthroplasty, two-stage, one-stage, and three-stage exchange were 81.4%, 53.1%, 47.7%, 35.0%, and 30%, respectively. The mean duration of systemic antifungal therapy was 12.8 weeks. The most common drugs used both in intravenous (55.9%) and oral therapy (84.0%) were fluconazole. The proportion of patients who used antifungal drugs after replantation (two-stage and three-stage) was 87.6%. 33.2% of cement spacer or fixed cement contained antifungal drugs, of which amphotericin B was the main choice (82.7%). FPJI caused by candida albicans (OR = 1.717, p = 0.041) and DAIR (OR = 8.433, p = 0.003) were risk factors for infection recurrence. Conclusions: Two-stage exchange remains the most commonly used surgical approach. The reliability of one- and three-exchange needs further evaluation due to the small sample size. Antifungal-loaded cement spacers, and direct intra-articular injections of antimycotics after reimplatation should be strongly considered. Medication is not standardized but rather individualized according to microbiology and the status of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate models indicate that a warmer environment will increase low‐level moisture, potentially intensify extreme precipitation. However, its impact on different rainfall types remains unclear. Using satellite data, we examined changes in light (0‐95th percentile, ≤5.28 mm hr−1) and heavy (95‐100th percentile, >5.28 mm hr−1) precipitation in the tropics from 1998 to 2019. Our findings show a −9 ± 2% (23 ± 2%) change in heavy (light) rain intensity and a 13 ± 2% (−24 ± 1%) change in heavy (light) rain frequency. These changes link to warmer sea surface temperatures, increased atmospheric stability and water vapor, and weakened upward velocity. These insights shed light on how heavy and light precipitation patterns respond to changing climate, emphasizing the complexities within the hydrological cycle. Plain Language Summary: The hydrologic cycle depends greatly on precipitation. With the expectation of climate warming causing substantial changes to the global water cycle, comprehending these shifts becomes pivotal in foreseeing how climate changes will affect society. Climate models suggest that as temperatures rise, low‐level moisture will increase. However, the specific impacts of this heightened moisture on the intensity and frequency of precipitation events remain uncertain. Analyzing data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (1998–2019), we found notable changes: a 23 ± 2% increase in light rain intensity, a −9 ± 2 % decrease in heavy rain intensity, a 13 ± 2 % rise in heavy rain frequency, and a significant −24 ± 1% decrease in light rain frequency. These changes result diverse factors like warming oceans, stabilized atmospheric conditions, increased water vapor, and weakened upward velocity. This underscores the intricate interplay between different rainfall types and how they respond to the evolving climate. Key Points: In the tropics from 1998 to 2019, heavy rain intensity decreased and light rain intensity increasedIn the tropics from 1998 to 2019, heavy rain frequency increased and light rain frequency decreasedRain shifting patterns linked to increased SST, atmospheric stability, and water vapor and decreased upward velocity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic forced higher education institutions to alter how they offer classes at an unprecedented pace. Due to ambiguities and lockdown restrictions, the transition phase negatively impacted students' and professors emotions. As a result, lecturers had to cope with unfamiliar online class teaching responsibilities and develop new teaching dynamics. This work aims to analyze one of the most adversely affected procedures of teaching, the written feedback provided to students. This research strives to explore whether the professors' feedback style altered from face-to-face education to online education on digital platforms during the COVID-19 restrictions. This exploratory-design study uses a mixed methodology to explain the subject on hand based on data collected from 117 undergraduate students. Sentiment lexicographers are utilized to address and identify the emotions expressed in the texts. Trust was the most frequent emotion expressed in face-to-face and online courses. It is also observed that the sentiments of joy and sadness changed significantly among online and face-to-face groups based on the professors' feedback style and approach. Finally, the study reveals that the joy words and the sadness words associated with the learning process are the most commonly utilized sentiments. This study suggests that when the courses transitioned from face-to-face to online learning, the professors' feedback changed to a more positive feeling that expressed appreciation for the students' work, encouraging them to strive for their complete academic development, and usher them into a better learning environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the realm of cement production, clinker-producing factories emerge as both energy and material-intensive entities, emitting a substantial array of primary pollutants into the environment compared to their non-clinker-producing counterparts. This study investigates the emissions from clinker-producing cement factories in Ethiopia and their impact on community well-being. We specifically focus on particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and gaseous emissions (CO2, N2O, SO2) measured at various units within the cement factories and nearby residential areas. The study area includes major industry players such as Derba Cement plant, National Cement Share Company, Mugher Cement Enterprise, Ethio Cement P.L.C, Dangote Cement plant, Habesha Cement, and Pioneers Cement Share Company. The pollutants were measured using standard instruments, including the portable Aeroqual Series-500 Gas Sensor (S-500) for both particulate matters and gases, with sampling conducted from August 1, 2021, to January 30, 2022. We analyzed the potential health impacts of these emissions, particularly respiratory diseases, among different age groups. The findings underscore the urgent need for regulatory measures to mitigate cement particulate emissions and protect community health. Our study provides valuable insights into the environmental and health risks associated with clinker-producing cement factories in Ethiopia, contributing to the broader field of environmental science.Article highlights: Clinker-producing cement factories in Ethiopia emit significant primary pollutants, impacting community health. Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and gases (CO2, N2O, SO2) emissions were measured at various units and nearby areas. Urgent regulatory measures are needed to mitigate cement particulate emissions and safeguard community health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]