Monitoring Practices Research Articles

Developing an AI Tool for Forest Monitoring: Introducing SylvaMind AI

Global forests face increasing threats from deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change, necessitating innovative tools for effective monitoring and management. Traditional forest monitoring methods, which rely heavily on manual fieldwork and labor-intensive data processing, are often inadequate for addressing the scale and complexity of these challenges. Advanced tools leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and remote sensing have emerged as critical solutions, offering timely, accurate, and actionable insights to enable efficient ecosystem monitoring, threat detection, and sustainable management practices. This paper introduces SylvaMind AI, an advanced platform that integrates satellite imagery, deep learning frameworks, and geospatial analysis within a user-friendly interface, which was built using Python for backend systems and deep learning pipelines, alongside tools like Pandas, Rasterio, and TensorFlow for data preprocessing and predictive modelling. The platform processes high-resolution data from Sentinel-2 and Landsat missions for feature extraction and predictive modelling. SylvaMind AI offers two modelling approaches: an automated option for non-technical users and a customizable feature for researchers with specialized needs. Using these approaches, we developed a predictive canopy height model for a study area. The results demonstrated the platform's ability to capture underlying forest patterns and provide detailed insights into canopy height distribution, particularly for medium to high canopies (>25m). This underscores its strength in modeling structural complexity in dense forests. However, the model showed limitations in representing smaller trees, attributed to insufficient training data. SylvaMind AI holds immense potential in transforming forest monitoring by leveraging advanced geospatial data, AI, and intuitive design to address critical challenges in sustainable forest management.

The Influence of Age, Sex, and Season on Hematological Parameters in a Captive Population of Former Laboratory Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes).

This study aimed to establish a baseline hematological profile and examine the influence of age, sex, and season on hematological parameters in captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) living in a humid tropical climate. Hematological parameters are a useful tool for assessing health status and diagnosing diseases in animals. We analyzed 473 blood samples collected from 84 chimpanzees (43 females and 41 males) during annual health checks, conducted under anesthesia for a routine physical examination. The main findings revealed significant sex differences in some hematological parameters: males had higher hematocrit and red blood cell counts than females. Age-related variations have also been noted, with adolescents and adults having lower lymphocyte counts but higher neutrophil and monocyte counts than infants. Adults, in particular, had significantly lower platelet counts compared to other age classes. Seasonal fluctuations were also observed: lymphocyte counts were higher in the rainy season, while neutrophil counts were higher in the dry season. In addition, the general trends in hematological parameters for this captive population of chimpanzees were similar to those reported in captive chimpanzees living in the United States. These results should provide animal health professionals, particularly those working with nonhuman primates, with data to compare and interpret. They will help improve practices for monitoring and managing the health of nonhuman primates in captivity.

Development of clinical considerations for ankle-foot orthosis prescription and monitoring in young children with cerebral palsy: a Delphi study

Purpose To seek agreement on evidence-based, family-centered, clinical considerations for Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) prescription and monitoring for young, ambulatory children with cerebral palsy. Materials and Methods An online Delphi survey focusing on parent, clinician, and researcher perspectives on specific processes and outcomes concerning AFO prescription and monitoring practices was conducted over two rounds. Participants rated each survey item as critical, important but not critical, or less important. Items were included in Round 2 if >70% of participants in all three groups scored critical and <15% scored less important. A subgroup of survey respondents participated in a meeting to ratify the survey results. Results Twenty-two pediatric clinicians, seven researchers, and ten parents of young children with cerebral palsy participated in Round 1. Two clinicians and two parents dropped out in the second round. A total of 36 clinical considerations were deemed to be critically important for inclusion across contributor groups. Conclusions The proposed clinical considerations for AFO prescription and monitoring that embeds the perspectives of families is a valuable contribution to clinical practice. They can be used by clinicians as a guide when prescribing and introducing AFOs to families of young, ambulatory children with cerebral palsy.

Assessment of Quality Assurance Practices on Performance of Graduates of Selected Private Universities in Western Uganda

This study investigated the influence of quality assurance systems, practices and regulatory standards on the performance of graduates of selected universities in Western Uganda. The core question of this research was, is the teaching and learning provided in higher institutions of learning fit for purpose, does it prepare graduates with appropriate skills that employers need to meet the needs of society? To address this largely unresolved topic of discussion, this research aligned with a transformative research approach with qualitative methodologies. The study targeted 16 members of the university management team through purposive sampling; 19 employers and 17 graduates through snowball sampling. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and document reviews analysed thematically. Findings revealed that universities tried to meet stipulated regulatory standards for the minimum entry requirements, study programs always defined student learning outcomes, and monitoring and evaluation procedures were in place. Withal, it was reported that some accreditation requirements were not adhered to and some gaps in monitoring and evaluation practices were earmarked. It’s recommended that universities enhance quality assurance procedures and standards to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery and the teaching-learning environment to cater for the labour market needs

Academic and Community Hospitals differ in stroke subtype classification and cardiac monitoring: the DiVERT multi-center cohort study.

Cardiac monitoring strategies to detect occult atrial fibrillation (AF) post-stroke differ among healthcare institutions. This may be related to discrepancies in stroke subtype classification/adjudication, and/or consultation of cardiology specialists at Community Hospitals (CoH) and Academic Centers (AcC). Identifying the degree of heterogeneity may encourage development of guideline-directed monitoring protocols, result in higher AF detection rates and treatments, and fewer strokes. The DiVERT (SeconDary Stroke PreVEntion ThRough Pathway ManagemenT) study was designed to characterize post-stroke cardiac monitoring practices in a hospital setting. Care pathways were assessed with in-person stakeholder interviews; patient-level data were reviewed using electronic medical records. DiVERT identified 2,475 patients with diagnoses of cryptogenic (83.6% vs. 33.1%, p < 0.001), large vessel disease (LVD) (13.3% vs. 37.0%, p < 0.001), or small vessel disease (SVD) (3.1% vs. 29.9%, p < 0.001) stroke, at CoH and AcC, respectively. CoH consulted cardiology significantly less than AcC (12.3% vs. 34.7%, p < 0.001) and ordered significantly fewer short- or long-term cardiac monitors than AcC (6.8% vs. 69.2%, p < 0.001). CoH had shorter length of stay (5.3 vs. 9.4 days, p < 0.001) and patient demographics were significantly different (p < 0.001 for age, ethnicity and race). Significant heterogeneity in cardiac monitoring post-stroke exists: CoH reported 2.5-times more cryptogenic stroke than AcC yet ordered 10-times fewer short/long-term cardiac monitors to look for AF. Significant differences in patient demographics among institutions may account for this discrepancy. Regardless, efforts to reduce heterogeneity are warranted to improve AF detection and treatment and prevent recurrent stroke.

Global research trends in therapeutic drug monitoring of antimicrobials from 2000 to 2023: a bibliometric analysis.

The practice of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is widely used for maximizing the clinical efficacy of antimicrobials. However, a systematic bibliometric analysis providing an overview of this field is lacking at present. The aim of the current study was to identify hotspots and trends in antimicrobial TDM, highlight collaborations and influences among countries, institutions, and journals, and assess the knowledge base for further development of clinical research. Articles and reviews related to TDM of antimicrobials from the Web of Science Core Collection were collected. CiteSpace and VOSviewer, two visualization tools, were utilized to graphically assess the key elements within this domain, including mapping of countries and regions, institutions, keywords, and references associated with the field of antimicrobial TDM. Through this approach, we were able to successfully provide a comprehensive visual overview of the research landscape, highlighting the significant players and thematic trends in the literature. From 2000 to 2023, a total of 17,236 authors from 4,112 institutions in 112 countries/regions published 3,710 papers in 819 academic journals. The United States had the highest number of publications, with University of Queensland identified as the most active institution. The journal with the greatest number of publications was Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, whereas Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy was the most co-cited journal. Current research focuses on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, vancomycin, posaconazole, invasive fungal infection and critically ill patients. Promising hotspots for future research include vancomycin, voriconazole, meropenem, isavuconazole, posaconazole, and teicoplanin. Moreover, vancomycin and critically ill patients remain a hot topic of future research. Using bibliometric and visualization methods, the research hotspots of antimicrobial drugs in TDM were analyzed. The continued increase in the number of annual publications demonstrates the vital significance of TDM for antimicrobials. Data from this study provide a valuable reference for future research trends in TDM of antimicrobial agents.

Study of using GIS technologies in forestry cadastre and monitoring for environmental sustainability

Abstract The integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies in the forestry cadastre and monitoring practices in Uzbekistan represents a significant advancement in sustainable forest management. This study explores the application of GIS in enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and comprehensiveness of forestry cadastre, which is crucial for the effective management, conservation, and restoration of forest resources in Uzbekistan. Through spatial analysis, remote sensing, and data integration, GIS technologies offer detailed insights into forest cover, land use changes, and biodiversity, providing a robust framework for decision-making and policy formulation. The research highlights how GIS tools facilitate the precise mapping of forest boundaries, monitoring of illegal logging activities, and assessment of reforestation efforts. Furthermore, the study examines the challenges and opportunities in implementing GIS in Uzbekistan’s forestry sector, considering the country’s unique geographical and ecological context. The findings suggest that adopting GIS technologies can significantly contribute to achieving Uzbekistan’s environmental sustainability goals and improving the management of its forestry resources.

Predicting Rolling Element Bearings’ Deterioration Vibration Trend based on Limited Historical Data for a Desired Confidence Level using Machine Learning Algorithms

Predicting the deterioration trend of bearings and determining the optimal replacement time is crucial for maintenance teams to effectively manage consumable parts, enhance equipment reliability, and prevent potential breakdowns. Given the common practice of periodic condition monitoring based on vibrations in large industries, utilizing this data to forecast future vibration trends is a key focus of this research. Considering the limited availability of data in industrial settings, it is essential for the model used to be capable of working with minimal data. To address these challenges, a run-to-failure test has been conducted on an industrial bearing sample, with its vibration data recorded. Acknowledging the impact of operational variations and uncertainties in vibration behavior even among identical bearings, leveraging the bearing’s vibration history for predictive modeling has been deemed critical. This study proceeds in three distinct phases: selecting the key characteristic for predicting its deterioration trend, identifying the feature to pinpoint the failure onset, and determining the most suitable model for forecasting future bearing vibration states. RMS has emerged as the optimal characteristic for trend prediction, while Peak and Kurtosis have been identified as effective indicators for failure onset detection. The selection of the deterioration estimation model has involved comparing the outcomes of SVR + Bootstrapping and RVR models under various limited data scenarios. Ultimately, the RVR method has proved superior, requiring just three data points for estimation and delivering results with a confidence level leading to an accuracy of approximately 94% for the analyzed bearing.

Integrated pest management adoption among citrus growers in Iran: an application of the protection motivation theory.

Integrated pest management (IPM) is recognized as a sustainable approach to pest control. However, adoption rates among farmers in Iran have been observed to be low. This study investigates the adoption of IPM practices among citrus farmers in Iran and assesses the applicability of the protection motivation theory (PMT) in explaining farmers' behavior towards IPM. Overall, farmers reported poor levels of IPM use, paying attention only to monitoring practices among the three groups of IPM practices examined (prevention, monitoring, and suppression). The perceived severity of the consequences of chemical pest control (β = 0.389, P < 0.001), the response efficacy of IPM practices (β = 0.254, P < 0.001), and the perceived self-efficacy of using IPM practices (β = 0.199, P < 0.001) positively predicted adoption of IPM practices, while response cost/barriers of IPM practices (β = -0.355, P < 0.001) negatively predicted adoption of IPM practices. The PMT model presents a unique and interesting perspective to understand if and how IPM practices against the threat of pests are motivated. The perceived severity of the consequences of chemical pest control showed the strongest positive effect, whereas the response cost/barriers of IPM practices showed the strongest negative effect on IPM adoption. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

IoT based real-time water quality monitoring system in water treatment plants (WTPs)

This study presents the development and implementation of an Internet of Things (IoT)-based real-time water quality monitoring system tailored for water treatment plants (WTPs). The system integrates advanced sensor technologies to continuously monitor key water quality parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids (TDS), and temperature. Data collected by these sensors is transmitted through a robust communication network to a centralized monitoring platform that utilizes cloud-based storage and analytics. The system's design includes a PLC-based control mechanism, allowing for flexible setup modifications and the easy addition of new monitoring parameters. The IoT-based system, powered by a low-energy 29-W configuration, offers accurate and reliable data with a minimal error margin of 0.1–0.2 across various parameters. The research highlights the system's ability to provide real-time alerts, historical data logging, and remote monitoring, all of which contribute to enhanced operational efficiency, proactive maintenance, and informed decision-making. This innovative approach to water quality management not only improves the effectiveness of WTP operations but also ensures environmental sustainability and public health safety. The study underscores the significant potential of IoT technologies in revolutionizing water quality monitoring practices.

Improvement of operational monitoring of the psychological state of a person in prolonged isolation

Introduction. The article describes a methodological scheme for operational psychological monitoring of the crew in isolation, simulating the effect of space flight factors on humans. Examples of intermediate experimental results in the form of qualitative operational data (psychological profiles of participants) are given. The methodological approach can be applied in the practice of operational monitoring of work teams (crews) whose professional activities take place in conditions of social isolation and/or the action of extreme environmental factors. The aim of the study is to test a comprehensive, minimally invasive method of psychological monitoring of participants in an isolation experiment to obtain operational data. Materials and methods. The SIRIUS-23 experiment is the fourth stage of the 365-day SIRIUS international project. The participants in the simulated isolation were 6 people, 2 men (±34.5) and 4 women (±30.5). The basic principles of building a diagnostic scheme for psychological monitoring are complexity and an individual approach. The scheme includes three structural blocks (score scale, semi-structured confidential conversation, computerized techniques), each of which is aimed at solving a specific task. Results. The authors presented the depersonalized psychological data of two anonymized participants of the experiment as intermediate results of the study. Psychological profiles contain generalized operational data, divided by time for ease of analysis into three equal parts — trimesters. The use of three diagnostic blocks allows us to describe the dynamics of changes in the psycho-emotional state of specialists working in isolation: the appearance of adverse signs of mental asthenization. Limitations. The study is limited to a small sample of subjects. Conclusion. As a result of the application of the methodological scheme, each of its structural blocks complements each other. For example, certain signs of asthenization in daily recordings of negotiations, which are obtained using a score scale (negatively colored negative reactions, parasitic words, etc.), are confirmed by data from computer techniques and correspondence. The use of a three-part methodological scheme is possible in areas of professional activity where people are under the influence of extreme factors. Thus, there is an interpretative context (an understanding of the reasons is being formed, the basis for making recommendations is being laid). Ethics. The experimental program was approved by the section of the Academic Council and approved by the Biomedical Ethics Commission at the Russian Scientific Center — Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences (protocol No. 643 dated 07.07.2023).

Cloud-Native Microservices for Real-Time Data Systems: A Technical Deep Dive

Cloud-native microservices have emerged as a transformative solution for organizations facing the challenges of real-time data processing and analysis in today's digital landscape. This comprehensive article explores the fundamental components of cloud-native architectures, from their foundational principles to implementation best practices. The article examines how containerization, orchestration, and event-driven architectures enable unprecedented scalability and efficiency in handling modern data processing requirements. Through a detailed examination of microservices as building blocks, the research demonstrates how these architectural patterns significantly improve system reliability, performance, and maintainability. The article encompasses advanced monitoring and observability practices, highlighting their crucial role in maintaining robust cloud-native systems. By investigating real-world implementations across various industries, this study provides valuable insights into the practical benefits and challenges of adopting cloud-native approaches.

Sustaining Metro Manila: Management Practices for Peak Performance

The research study investigated the management practices of selected cities in Metro Manila through the specified sub-problems as stated in the study, such as the demographic profile, assessment of management practices, and determination of the significant differences in the assessment of the respondents on the variables mentioned in the research paper. This study was carried out to evaluate and analyze the existing management practices in selected cities of Metro Manila across various dimensions such as planning, human resources, financial management, administration, and monitoring and evaluation, to gather insights from different stakeholders including city administrators, employees, and community members regarding their perceptions and assessments of the management practices in their respective cities, to develop a set of actionable sustainability measures and to assess the proposed sustainability measures for their suitability, acceptability, and feasibility among stakeholders. The paper utilized the descriptive method, and the respondents were the employees and administrators of the selected cities of Metro Manila. Slovin’s formula was used to determine the number of respondents. For each group of respondents, various non-random and random sampling procedures were used, such as Purposive and Simple random techniques. The Frequency Distribution, Percentage formula, Weighted mean and Anova were employed to identify the level of perception of the respondents as shown in the verbal interpretations of the Likert scale survey questionnaire as well as the significant difference in the assessment of the group of respondents on the variables presented in the study. The results or findings of the study manifested the excellent and Very Good ratings in the most variables exhibited in the study. In terms of significant differences in the Suitability, Acceptability and Feasibility, the results showed that there is no significant difference in the responses, but there is a significant difference in the respondents’ perceptions on the Acceptability and Feasibility of the proposed sustainability program. In conclusion, management practices across selected cities in Metro Manila exhibit consistent excellence across various critical areas. Planning, human resource management, financial management, administration, and monitoring and evaluation practices all received outstanding ratings, reflecting effective leadership, strategic oversight, and robust operational frameworks. Administrators demonstrated strong performance across these domains, supported by positive feedback from stakeholders and employees, highlighting broad alignment and support for inclusive and sustainable urban development strategies.

Adoption challenges of environmental monitoring practices: case study of temperature data loggers in selected Australian vegetable supply chains

Temperature monitoring across cold chain practices is an integral component of fresh produce supply chains. Numerous temperature data loggers (TDLs) are available to reduce the significant amount of food loss and waste (FLW) (equivalent to around 50%) in vegetable supply chains; however, its widespread adoption remains a challenge for the actors along the chain. This study seeks to understand the adoption of TDLs within selected Australian vegetable supply chains to address the challenge of FLW. Three representative cases of vegetable supply chains were purposively selected, including growers, packers, transporters, distribution centres along with technology providers, and industry experts. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed utilising thematic analysis. The findings indicate that members of vegetable supply chains recognise temperature management as one of the key factors for preserving quality and extending shelf life of their produce; however, they are not proactively seeking to utilise TDLs in their supply chain operations. Resistance to adoption of TDLs is deeply rooted in product-based challenges such as cost and compatibility, and process-based challenges including information sharing and product mixing. Additionally, presence of an individual’s undesirable behavioural aspects such as status-quo bias and responsibility shirking as well as prevailing social norms within the industry influence the adoption of TDLs.

MODERATING EFFECT OF REGULATORY FRAMEWORK ON RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARTICIPATORY M&amp;E PROCESS ON PERFORMANCE OF HIV/AIDS COMMUNITY HEALTH PROJECTS IN KISUMU COUNTY, KENYA

Objective: This study examined the moderating effect of the regulatory framework on the relationship between Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation (PM&amp;E) processes and the performance of HIV/AIDS community health projects by NGOs in Kisumu County, Kenya. Theoretical Framework: Anchored in participatory action research, the study drew on theory of stakeholder engagement to assess the extent to which PM&amp;E and regulatory frameworks collectively enhanced project performance. Method: Using a moderated multiple regression model, the study analysed data on PM&amp;E processes, regulatory frameworks, and their interaction on project outcomes. Quantitative data were collected from NGO project managers and community leaders and analysed to test the study’s hypotheses. Results and Discussion: PM&amp;E processes significantly influenced project performance (β = 0.341), with the regulatory framework also contributing independently (β = 0.345). The interaction between PM&amp;E and the regulatory framework further moderated this relationship, as indicated by a composite mean of 4.13, correlation coefficient R = 0.572, and ANOVA (F = 55.360, p = 0.000). These results led to the rejection of the null hypothesis, confirming that both PM&amp;E and regulatory frameworks positively impacted project success. Research Implications: Strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing participatory monitoring practices, and conducting regular policy reviews were deemed essential for improved project performance. Capacity-building for community leaders was also recommended to reinforce the efficacy of HIV/AIDS community health projects. Originality/Value: This study contributes to existing literature by highlighting the critical role of regulatory frameworks in moderating PM&amp;E effectiveness, offering actionable insights for NGOs and policymakers focused on enhancing the impact of community health interventions.

Adverse effects of antidepressants and monitoring practices in adult patients at a psychiatric outpatient department of tikur anbessa specialized hospital: a cross-sectional study

Adverse effects of antidepressants and monitoring practices in adult patients at a psychiatric outpatient department of tikur anbessa specialized hospital: a cross-sectional study

Digital continuous glucose monitoring systems for patients with HIV-diabetes comorbidity in Ethiopia: a situational analysis

In patients with HIV-diabetes mellitus (DM) comorbidity, invasive blood glucose testing can increase the risk of HIV-related blood contamination and discourage regular glucose monitoring. Digital continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems may allow real-time glucose monitoring without the need for blood specimens. However, in high-burden HIV-DM countries, current glucose monitoring practices and their challenges are insufficiently explored to guide digital CGM research and developments. This study sought to explore the lived experiences of patients with HIV-DM comorbidity and their healthcare providers regarding glucose monitoring practices, and their openness to CGM and other digital technologies, to provide formative insights for a planned implementation trial of digital CGM in Ethiopia. A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted among patients with HIV-DM and their providers at the two largest public hospitals in Ethiopia. Both groups were interviewed face-to-face about DM clinic workflows, blood glucose monitoring and self-testing practices, and potential benefits and limitations of digital CGM systems. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. A total of 37 participants were interviewed, consisting of 18 patients with HIV-DM comorbidity and 19 healthcare providers. Patients had an average (min-max) duration of living with HIV and DM of 14 (8–31) and 6.6 (1–16) years, respectively, with 61% taking insulin—33% alone and 28% alongside oral hypoglycemic agents—and 79% having comorbid hypertension. The thematic analysis identified five main themes: “Diabetes routine clinical care and follow-up”, “Blood glucose monitoring practices”, “Perceptions about digital CGMs”, “Technology adoption”, and “Financial coverage”. Home self-testing was deemed beneficial, but the need for regular follow-ups, result cross-referencing, and glucometer reliability were emphasized. Patients performed fingerstick themselves or with family members, expressing concerns about waste disposal and the risk of HIV transmission. They rely mainly on health insurance for DM care. Patients and providers are happy with the quality of DM services but note a lack of integrated HIV-DM care. Very few providers and patients possessed background information about digital CGMs, and all have not yet utilized them in practice, but expressed keen interest in trying them, representing an important step for upcoming CGM clinical trials in these settings. Given the crucial role of regular glucose testing in managing HIV-DM comorbidity, it is essential to explore testing options that align with patient preferences and minimize the risk of HIV transmission.

Development of HPLC-UV method for determination of Nilotinib in spiked human plasma with greenness assessment

One of the approved second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (Nilotinib) shows great efficacy and selectivity in the treatment of patients with chronic or accelerated phase chronic myelogenous leukemia, and in resistant/ intolerant to prior therapy cases. For the analysis of Nilotinib in synthetic mixture and human plasma samples, a new reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method was developed. Determination was performed successfully using RP–18 column and a mobile phase consisting of 10 mM potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer (pH = 5.5), methanol, and acetonitrile in the ratio 37:37:26 (v/v/v). Isocratic mode of elution with flow rate 1.2 ml/min and UV detection at 265 nm were applied. The method was validated for linearity in the range 0.5–24.0 µg/ml and best accuracy and precision results were obtained at temperature 40 °C. The percentage recovery of the analyzed drug was in the range 88.0–106.0 %. Moreover, the proposed RP-HPLC method was evaluated in terms of greenness, whiteness and blueness using three newly developed ecological metrics – The Analytical Greenness software, White Analytical Chemistry and Blue Applicability Grade Index. Good results were obtained and the technique was proved effective, specific and suitable for implementation in routine quality control and clinical laboratory practice for therapeutic drug monitoring.

A Comparative Analysis of Drone and Boat Monitoring for the Endangered Bolivian River Dolphin

Accurate population monitoring is essential for effective wildlife conservation. This study compares the effectiveness of drone-based vs traditional boat-based methods for assessing an endangered Bolivian river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis boliviensis; BRD) population in Bolivia. Data were collected using high-resolution video recorded with a DJI Mavic 2 zoom drone and standardized methodologies for boat surveys. Two mixed-effects linear models incorporating Poisson and negative binomial error structures were used to compare counts obtained from drone- and boat-based surveys. Results show that drone-based surveys detected 1.15% more individuals on average than boat-based surveys. Drone counts were higher at sites with larger group sizes, leading to congruent estimates. The aerial perspective that drones offer lets researchers overcome potential challenges from boat-based surveys—for example, difficulties related to confirming individual IDs because of limited visibility due to sun glare. Transitioning from boat- to drone-based surveys offers advantages such as reduced disturbance from placement closer to the animals and improved detection rates. Ethical considerations and responsible flight practices are crucial. Standardizing methodologies and prioritizing ethical research factors are key for successful implementation. Drone-based surveys offer a promising approach to enhance wildlife monitoring and conservation practices. This study is the first of this kind for Bolivia, a national natural heritage site, and contributes to the conservation and knowledge of the BRD.

Adaptive digital and non-digital self-management in permanent enterostomy patients: A qualitative study based on the Chronic Illness Trajectory framework

PurposeTo examine the adaptive self-management strategies of enterostomy patients across different health trajectory phases and explore how patients utilize a combination of digital tools and traditional practices to manage their condition effectively within the Chronic Illness Trajectory Framework (CITF). MethodsParticipants were recruited from Qingdao Municipal Hospital's Stoma Clinic between October 2022 and August 2024. A total of 26 adults who had undergone permanent enterostomy surgery at least six months prior were selected through purposeful sampling to capture diverse experiences across different health trajectory phases. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis, with saturation reached when no new insights emerged. ResultsThree primary trajectory types emerged: (1) Living with a Stable Enterostomy Condition, where structured routines and preventive practices helped patients maintain health stability; (2) Experiencing Cycles of Deterioration and Recovery, characterized by proactive monitoring and recovery practices, often supported by family and telemedicine; and (3) Responding to Unstable Changes, requiring immediate actions, real-time adjustments, and crisis planning, with patients relying on both wearable monitors and established self-care routines. Across all phases, a balanced use of digital and non-digital methods enhanced adaptability and resilience. ConclusionThe findings underscore the importance of phase-specific, adaptive self-management strategies that blend digital innovations with foundational self-care practices. CITF offers a valuable framework for clinicians to assess patients’ trajectory phases and provide tailored support that aligns with their unique health needs. This approach can promote patient autonomy, improve quality of life, and inform the development of comprehensive, patient-centered care models for enterostomy and other chronic conditions.