Search Results (26,777)

Soil compaction caused by uncontrolled machinery traffic is a major constraint to sustainable crop production. Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF), which restricts machinery movement to permanent lanes, has been practiced in New Zealand for more than a decade but has not been evaluated against Random Traffic Farming (RTF). This knowledge gap limits farmer awareness and adoption. This study hypothesized that CTF reduces soil compaction and improves soil physical properties compared with RTF. A one-year field experiment was conducted at Pukekohe, New Zealand, using annual ryegrass grown under CTF and RTF. Soil penetration resistance (PR), bulk density, total porosity, moisture content, and air-filled porosity were measured to a 40 cm depth. RTF increased soil PR relative to CTF across 10–40 cm. Bulk density was lower under CTF (0.96–1.03 g·cm⁻³) than RTF (1.11–1.30 g·cm⁻³), with improved total porosity (0.60–0.62 cm·cm⁻³) and aeration (12–23 cm·cm⁻³). CTF achieved a 5.7% higher bed-level yield. When scaled to the whole-field context, the productivity of tramlines contributed to 8% greater dry matter yield under CTF than RTF, indicating that the area allocated to tramlines did not negate the system-level productivity. This study provides the first New Zealand-specific empirical comparison of CTF and RTF to support adoption of CTF. Full article

To identify suitable settlement prediction methods for buildings constructed in loess high-fill areas, this study analyzes settlement monitoring data from a residential building in the Yan’an New District. Considering the pronounced compressibility of loess high fills and the depth-sensitive characteristics of differential settlement, four prediction approaches—the exponential curve method, the hyperbolic method, the code-based method, and the finite element method—are employed to forecast settlement. Fitting functions are established for each method to extrapolate the ultimate settlement. The research results indicate that, within the monitoring period, the exponential curve method and the hyperbolic method exhibit higher agreement with the measured settlement data, with prediction errors of 2.56% and 0.62%, respectively. These errors are significantly lower than those of the code-based method and the finite element method, which reach 45.6% and 77.4%, respectively. In particular, the hyperbolic method, through adaptive parameter iteration, controls the discrepancies between calculated and measured settlements at all monitoring points within a range of 0.62% to 8.89%. This method is therefore capable of more accurately capturing the settlement evolution characteristics, consistent with the long-term creep behavior of loess high-fill foundations, and provides a feasible reference method and practical decision-making support for building settlement prediction and engineering design in loess high-fill areas. Full article

Background: Sleep disturbances are common in dementia and adversely affect both the person with dementia and their caregiver. Non-pharmacological options exist but are seldom dyadic or culturally tailored, limiting their reach and relevance across diverse communities. Objective: We aimed to co-develop DREAM (Dyadic Resilience, Engagement, Awareness & Mind–body intervention)—an 8-week dyadic mind–body programme (mindfulness + gentle Tai Chi) for improving sleep and wellbeing in people with dementia and their caregivers. Methods: The process was informed by Intervention Mapping (Stages 1–4) and underpinned by established behaviour change frameworks, including the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW), the COM-B model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation → Behaviour), and the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), to systematically identify determinants of engagement. Co-design involved dementia–caregiver dyads, Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) contributors, clinicians, mind–body practitioners, and community stakeholders. Results: The intervention was co-developed and culturally grounded through engagement with White British, Caribbean, Chinese, and South Asian communities. Participants reported high cultural resonance, endorsing DREAM’s concise practices, caregiver-supported home routines, and delivery in trusted community venues. Behavioural insights highlighted the importance of motivational framing (perceived dyadic benefits, cultural meaning), practical enablement (simplified guidance, prompts/cues, environmental restructuring), and caregiver facilitation to support adherence. Conclusions: DREAM demonstrates the practicability of using Intervention Mapping to co-develop a culturally responsive, theory-informed dyadic mind–body intervention for people with dementia and their caregivers. This groundwork supports progression to a feasibility trial focused on implementation processes and preliminary sleep and wellbeing outcomes. Full article

Soil management is crucial for addressing soil-borne pathogens, weeds, and pests, ensuring sustainable crop productivity. Traditional chemical fumigants, such as methyl bromide, have been effective but pose serious environmental risks, including ozone depletion and reduced soil biodiversity. Consequently, attention has shifted toward more sustainable alternatives. Techniques like soil solarization, anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD), biofumigation, and the use of biological control agents (BCAs) offer environmentally friendly options for managing soil-borne diseases. Steam and microwave disinfestation are also promising techniques; however, further development is required to improve their practical efficiency. Integrated management approaches, which combine multiple interventions, have proven particularly effective, offering flexibility and enhancing control through complementary techniques. Additionally, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and hyperspectral imaging provide new opportunities for real-time monitoring and decision-support to optimize the timing and targeting of pest management interventions. This review emphasizes the potential of sustainable soil pest control methods to reduce reliance on chemical fumigants, improve crop yield and quality, and support environmentally responsible farming practices. It also examines the challenges associated with scalability, cost, and variable effectiveness, while outlining the strengths, weaknesses, and mechanisms of each method. Further research on regional adaptation, technological integration, and long-term impacts is essential to fully optimize these innovative solutions for food security and sustainable agriculture. Full article

Background/Objectives: Health Promotion Centres (HPCs) in Slovenia represent a European best practice for integrated prevention and health promotion. This study explores the feasibility of adapting the Slovenian HPC model to Bergamo Province, Lombardy, considering local population needs and health system characteristics. Methods: We conducted a qualitative feasibility and policy analysis based primarily on documentary review, complemented by a webinar, a study visit to Slovenia, and expert consultations (conducted in two group discussions) with professionals from ATS (Agenzia Tutela della Salute) Bergamo and local ASST (Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale) providers. Data were analysed using the PIET-T framework (Population–Intervention–Environment–Transfer). Results: Eight key elements define the Slovenian model: (1) governance and stewardship; (2) structural financing; (3) standardized service portfolio; (4) systematic preventive referrals; (5) integration with primary care and screening; (6) multidisciplinary teams with codified training; (7) community outreach and equity orientation; and (8) information systems and reporting. While Bergamo shares similar demographic and epidemiological profiles, differences in behavioral risk factors, project-based financing, fragmented initiatives, and limited digital integration necessitate adaptation. The comparative assessment highlighted key areas requiring contextual adaptation, including financing mechanisms, organisational coordination, workforce capacity, digital interoperability, and approaches to equity. Conclusions: The Slovenian HPC experience demonstrates the potential of integrated, community-based health promotion. Its adaptation to Lombardy appears feasible if core components are preserved and tailored to local governance, population, and health system conditions. These organisational features may be particularly relevant for time-dependent conditions, such as acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, by potentially supporting more timely risk-factor management and coordination across diagnostic and emergency pathways. Rather than a blueprint for reform, this experience offers useful insights to reinforce prevention and health promotion within the ongoing territorial care reform in Lombardy. Full article

Limited study time constrains university EFL vocabulary learning, so efficiency should be evaluated alongside accuracy. A web-based multimodal environment was developed that uses a large language model for contextualized drills and tutoring, text-to-speech for pronunciation and listening rehearsal, and an interactive 3D mastery view for self-regulated tracking. Vocabulary knowledge is modeled as a discrete mastery state (m = 0–5), updated after each attempt, and an adaptive scheduler allocates practice across mastery strata. Learning ROI is defined as newly mastered words per hour and computed from logged study time and mastery transitions. In a three-month deployment (N = 171), learners achieved a mean ROI of 9.8 words/hour, about 60% higher than conventional estimates (5–6 words/hour); high-adherence users reached 17–21 words/hour. End-of-trial surprise review results indicated retention above 85%. For CET-4, the platform cohort obtained the highest mean score (457.66) and pass rate (74.24%) compared with Baicizhan (442.22; 64.81%) and traditional instruction (428.60; 53.70%). The results provide quantitative support for the hypothesis that multimodal personalization improves time-based vocabulary gains and their durability. Full article

Local governments play a critical role in advancing climate change mitigation under national carbon neutrality strategies; however, practical mechanisms for policy learning and collaboration remain limited. This study analyzes the Kyoto Roundtable, a transdisciplinary dialogue platform designed to support municipalities toward decarbonization in Japan. Based on a policy-learning framework co-designed with frontrunner municipalities, we implemented five roundtable sessions involving municipal officers and researchers. Analysis of workshop discussions, action-planning sheets, and participant surveys illustrates how structured dialogue supports policy learning and coordination. The findings indicate that inter-municipal networks and sustained science–policy dialogue play a crucial role in motivating local climate policy development. Mutual learning and knowledge exchange within the roundtable enhanced participants’ engagement and capacity to adapt policies. The interaction between horizontal inter-municipal collaboration and vertical support from supramunicipal and national governments contributed to early-stage policy diffusion. These findings suggest that transdisciplinary dialogue platforms can function as critical infrastructure for scaling local decarbonization by sustaining policy learning and inter-municipal collaboration. Full article

This study examined the effects of different LED light spectra on the in vitro development of plantlets of Bletilla striata (Orchidaceae), a frost-hardy ornamental orchid with increasing horticultural relevance outside its native East Asian range. The objective was to optimize growth conditions using energy-efficient lighting to support sustainable cultivation practices. Plantlets approximately 4 cm in length with 0.5 cm leaves were cultured on standard Orchimax medium in 200 mL Erlenmeyer flasks and exposed to five LED treatments: 100% blue (B), 100% red (R), red/blue at 70:30 (RB), 50% yellow + RB (7:3), and 50% green + RB (7:3). Fluorescent light served as controls. The photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was maintained at approximately 40 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹ across all light treatments. After seven weeks, selected LED spectra improved plantlet performance compared with the control. Leaf number remained stable, while RB light promoted leaf expansion, resulting in the widest leaves. Root formation occurred under all LED treatments, supporting subsequent acclimatization. Light quality strongly affected photosynthetic pigments and secondary metabolism. The highest total chlorophyll content was recorded under RB illumination (581 µg g⁻¹ FW), whereas monochromatic red light resulted in the lowest pigment levels. Carotenoid accumulation was significantly enhanced under RB and RBG spectra. Blue-containing treatments (B and RB) markedly stimulated the accumulation of phenolic compounds, including flavonols and anthocyanins, while red light suppressed phenolic biosynthesis. Total soluble sugars showed an organ-specific response, with red light promoting sugar accumulation in shoots and blue light in roots. These findings demonstrate that targeted LED lighting not only improves plant quality but also offers an environmentally sustainable and economically viable approach for commercial micropropagation and conservation of B. striata. Full article

Malignancy-related gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) remains a significant clinical challenge, contributing substantially to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare utilization in patients with cancer. Up to 10% of individuals with advanced malignancies develop GIB during their disease, and these episodes are frequently characterized by a high risk of rebleeding and poor long-term hemostatic control. Tumor-associated bleeding typically arises from friable, infiltrative, and highly vascular lesions that respond suboptimally to conventional endoscopic techniques such as thermal coagulation or mechanical clipping. These limitations underscore the need for improved diagnostic accuracy and more reliable therapeutic options. Recent advances in imaging modalities, including contrast-enhanced CT studies, have enhanced the ability to localize and characterize bleeding sources in complex oncologic cases. Parallel developments in endoscopic hemostasis—such as over-the-scope clips and contact-free coagulation devices—have expanded the therapeutic armamentarium for managing malignant bleeding. Clinically, topical hemostatic powders—particularly TC-325—represent a highly effective option for achieving rapid endoscopic hemostasis, supported by the strongest comparative evidence and the highest rates of immediate bleeding control among currently available technologies. In this review, we synthesize contemporary diagnostic approaches to GIB and place particular emphasis on the evolving and emerging therapeutic strategies for malignancy-related bleeding. We also highlight innovative technologies that are reshaping clinical practice and improving management options in this challenging clinical domain. Full article

This study examines the role of Low and Zero Emission Zones (LEZ/ZEZ) as urban climate-governance instruments in Latin American cities, using Rio de Janeiro as a case study. The objective is to assess the feasibility and institutional readiness for implementing a LEZ/ZEZ in the city’s central area, taking into account its regulatory framework, urban context, and transport- and emissions-related conditions. The methodology adopts an exploratory, qualitative approach based on the ASIF (Activity-Structure-Intensity-Fuel) framework, combined with a systematic review of municipal legislation, climate action plans, emissions inventories, and international best practices. Rather than developing a mathematical or predictive model, the study organizes these policy and institutional elements into a structured decision-support framework and proposes a roadmap to guide phased implementation. The results show that Rio de Janeiro possesses a favorable legal and policy environment for LEZ/ZEZ deployment, particularly through its Climate Action Plan and the legally established District of Low Emissions, while also identifying constraints related to data availability, monitoring capacity, and inter-institutional coordination. The study concludes that the proposed framework provides a practical governance-oriented tool to support low-carbon urban transitions, whose operational effectiveness will depend on future quantitative data collection, transport-demand simulation, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen evidence-based decision-making. Full article

Growing limitations on the use of in-feed antibiotics have accelerated the search for functional feed additives capable of supporting animal health and productivity under antibiotic-free production systems. Postbiotics, defined as non-viable microbial products or metabolic byproducts, and phytogenics, which are plant-derived bioactive compounds, have emerged as promising alternatives due to their stability and biological activity. Recent advances in the application of postbiotics and phytogenics in monogastric and ruminant nutrition are summarized, with emphasis on their mechanisms of action, synergistic effects, and impacts on gut health, immune function, and growth performance. Postbiotics modulate the gut microbiota, enhance epithelial barrier integrity, and regulate immune signaling, whereas phytogenic compounds provide antimicrobial, antioxidant, and digestive-stimulant effects. Available evidence suggests that combined strategies can enhance efficacy, particularly under production-related stress. Key challenges related to formulation, dose–response relationships, stability, and regulatory classification are discussed together with emerging omics-based approaches that support precision formulation. Overall, integration of multi-omics evidence with formulation and regulatory considerations supports the practical use of postbiotics and phytogenics in commercial livestock systems. Full article

Simulation-based learning experiences (SBLE) are widely used in health professions education to enhance clinical skills, confidence, and decision-making in a safe environment. In Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs, peer simulation offers a cost-effective alternative to high-fidelity simulation and standardized patients, though its effectiveness across different instructional formats remains underexplored. This study examined the differences in student confidence in outpatient physical therapy between cohorts of students from three educational delivery methods, which included face-to-face (F2F), virtual instruction (VI), and F2F combined with integrated clinical experiences (F2F + ICE), prior to their first clinical experience. Using a three-group comparative design, 107 students across three academic years (2019, 2020, and 2022) completed pre- and post-course surveys assessing confidence in four domains and interest in outpatient care. A two-way ANCOVA, controlling baseline interest, revealed significant differences in confidence across all cohorts between pre- and post-course assessment time periods (p < 0.001), with no significant differences between cohorts under the various delivery formats at post-course assessment. While the F2F + ICE group demonstrated higher baseline confidence, this difference was not found post-course. Findings suggest that peer simulation effectively improves perceived confidence in outpatient physical therapy regardless of delivery mode. These results support the integration of SBLE in DPT curricula to prepare students for clinical practice and highlight the need for further research across multiple programs. Full article

An emerging paradigm in public health focuses on enhancing nutrition in existing food staples to reduce chronic disease at the population scale, rather than relying on individuals to change their behavior. This paradigm leverages plant and animal breeding, production practices, and processing to enhance nutrition, whereby foods consumed by millions can be improved at low incremental cost. This article supports and operationalizes this paradigm, illustrating the potential to improve diets through a case study that increases the arabinoxylan fiber content of commodity wheat through classical plant breeding (a non-GMO technology). The approach described in this article proposes to link agricultural and food science with health system implementation to deliver equitable access, improved healthcare outcomes and cost savings, and improved community health. Based on published dose–response relationships, comparative risk modeling indicates that modest fiber increases achieved by the commodity wheat breeding led to reduced population-level risks of 1–3% for cardiovascular disease, 3–4.5% for type 2 diabetes, and 1–3.5% for colorectal cancer, translating into substantial healthcare cost savings when implemented at a national scale. This article outlines possible low-risk pathways for implementing these nutrition increases at the population scale through commodity supply chains and community-level nutrition improvement efforts and evaluates the ranges of potential population-level impacts. Full article

Optimizing medication management and improving patient health outcomes depend primarily on the strength of primary healthcare services, where collaboration between general practitioners (GPs) and pharmacists plays a critical role. This scoping review aimed to identify the main facilitators and barriers influencing pharmacist–GP collaboration. The review was conducted in line with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified studies published in English between January 2019 and May 2025, of which twenty met the inclusion criteria. Key facilitators of collaboration included pharmacist co-location within GP practices, clearly defined professional responsibilities, access to shared electronic health records, and supportive government policies. Barriers most frequently reported were limited communication pathways, insufficient interprofessional training, and financial constraints. Overall, the findings suggest that effective pharmacist–GP collaboration relies on structural integration, professional trust, and policy initiatives that enable sustained cooperation. Long-term investment in collaborative infrastructure and workforce development will be essential to strengthen primary care, support patient outcomes, and ensure more efficient use of healthcare resources. Full article

Informal food trading is a cornerstone of urban livelihoods and food security in Namibia, yet traders operate under fragile conditions marked by limited capital, policy exclusion, and exposure to shocks such as COVID-19. Despite this vulnerability, traders exhibit resilience through everyday forms of social innovation. This study investigates how adaptive pricing, customer credit, and digital communication and e-payment practices function as pathways of resilience among 470 informal food traders in Windhoek, using Structural Equation Modelling to assess gender-differentiated determinants and outcomes. The analysis reveals that women’s adoption of adaptive pricing and digital tools is driven primarily by education and startup capital, while men’s innovation practices are shaped by vendor type and access to financing. Social innovations mediate the effects of these structural factors on enterprise growth, demonstrating that innovation acts as a critical mechanism linking resources and resilience. The study concludes that enhancing informal traders’ resilience requires policies that strengthen human and financial capital, improve digital inclusion, and recognize gendered differences in access to opportunity. It recommends targeted support for women’s entrepreneurial training, affordable credit, and digital infrastructure to transform the informal food sector into a more equitable and sustainable component of Namibia’s urban economy. Full article