Professional Resources Research Articles

Increasing the uptake of advance care directives through staff education and one-on-one support for people facing end-of-life.

An advance care plan outlines a patient's wishes regarding medical treatment or goals of care in the case that they become unable to communicate or to make decisions. An advance care directive (ACD) is an advance care plan that has been formally recorded and has legal status. Despite ACDs playing an important role in person-centred end-of-life care, an earlier retrospective medical records audit demonstrated that only 11% (58/531) of people who died due to a terminal illness had an ACD.The aim of this project was to increase the proportion of patients with a terminal illness completing an ACD. A secondary outcome was to measure the impact of ACDs on hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions in the last 6 months of life.This multifaceted project comprised (1) education for health professionals and the public; (2) individual support for patients on request; (3) development of online resources for health professionals and the general public; and (4) monthly team meetings. The proportion of ACDs completed and hospital and ICU admissions during the last 6 months of life, were extracted via medical record audits.Written consent was required for patients to participate, including being contacted by the project team and accessing their medical records. 112 patients consented to participate in the project and 109 (97%) completed an ACD. There was no reduction in the average number of hospital admissions, while ICU admissions reduced from 14% (n=74) to 0%. The targeted, multifaceted approach to education and support for completion of ACDs, resulted in a significant increase in ACD completion and a major reduction in ICU admissions.

Cracking the Core: Hardware Vulnerabilities in Android Devices Unveiled

As Android devices become more prevalent, their security risks extend beyond software vulnerabilities to include critical hardware weaknesses. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of hardware-related vulnerabilities in Android systems, which can bypass even the most sophisticated software defenses. We compile and analyze an extensive range of reported vulnerabilities, introducing a novel categorization framework to facilitate a deeper understanding of these risks, classified by affected hardware components, vulnerability type, and the potential impact on system security. The paper addresses key areas such as memory management flaws, side-channel attacks, insecure system-on-chip (SoC) resource allocation, and cryptographic vulnerabilities. In addition, it examines feasible countermeasures, including hardware-backed encryption, secure boot mechanisms, and trusted execution environments (TEEs), to mitigate the risks posed by these hardware threats. By contextualizing hardware vulnerabilities within the broader security architecture of Android devices, this review emphasizes the importance of hardware security in ensuring system integrity and resilience. The findings serve as a valuable resource for both researchers and security professionals, offering insights into the development of more robust defenses against the emerging hardware-based threats faced by Android devices.

‘제주환경보전분담금(관광세)’ 제도 도입과정 분석 : 정책흐름모형(PSM)의 적용

Jeju Special Self-Governing Province has been reviewing the introduction of a tourism system related to a Tourism Tax for the environmental conservation of tourist destinations since 2012. However, the system, now referred to as the ‘Environmental Conservation Contribution,’ was ultimately postponed in May 2024 due to legal issues, political interests, negative public opinion regarding the system’s introduction, and a lack of supporting evidence. This study analyzes the process through the application of Kingdon(1984)’s Policy Streams Model(PSM), noting that discussions surrounding the ‘Jeju Environmental Conservation Contribution’, which faced long-standing challenges, did not follow a rational policy process due to differences in stakeholder opinions and the fluid nature of the system’s details. The anaylsis identified two main factors congributing to the difficulty in introducing the Jeju Environmental Conservation Contribution System. First, the window for policy decision-making did not open because the problem stream, policy alternatives stream, and political stream were not aligned, largely due to the insufficient formation of the political stream. Second, the policy leader who held significant influence in aligning these three streams, were unable to strongly lead the introduction of the system to it’s conclusion. Based on the research results, the practical implications of this study are as follows. First, for the successful implementation of the system, political efforts to persuade the public and shape public opinion are essential. Additionally, effective policy PR strategies are needed to foster social consensus through negotiations with multilateral consultative bodies and to enhance public awareness of the system. Second, it suggests that a logical and reasonable design that can change and persuade public perception is necessary when designing policy alternatives. Third, policy leaders should lead changes in the national atmosphere and public opinion formation based on professional knowledge and resources, and combine the three streams of the policy formation process with innovative strategies. The academic contribution of this study is that it lies in its application of empirical research using policy theory in the field of tourism studies, by clearly identifying the complex factors and problems involved in the introduction of the tourism system. Furthermore, this study enhances the clarity and objectivity of the analysis by refining the factors analyzed in the existing Policy Streams Model.

Mastering Microservices Architecture and Cloud Computing : In-Depth Strategies for Domain-Specific Optimization

This comprehensive article explores the intricate landscape of microservices architecture and cloud computing, specifically focusing on domain-specific optimization strategies. It delves into the foundational principles of microservices, examining their synergistic relationship with cloud technologies and their transformative impact on modern software development. The article addresses critical aspects such as service-to-service communication, API management, and data security in distributed environments. It also investigates the role of cloud-native services, including serverless computing and container orchestration, in enhancing microservices performance. Analyzing real-world case studies and emerging trends, the article highlights how organizations can leverage these technologies to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge. Key challenges in implementing and managing microservices architectures and strategies for overcoming them are discussed. The research emphasizes the importance of tailoring microservices to specific business needs and provides insights into performance tuning for high-traffic systems. This article offers a forward-looking perspective on the evolution of microservices and cloud computing by exploring future trends and considerations, including the potential impact of emerging technologies like edge computing and artificial intelligence. It serves as a valuable resource for IT professionals, architects, and decision-makers seeking to master these technologies and implement domain-specific optimizations effectively in their organizations.

Data literacy in healthcare: A systematic collection and evaluation of OERs on data acquisition

Abstract Background Data literacy is crucial in healthcare, as it allows healthcare professionals to recognize, collect, and use data for research efficiently. Teachers can use open educational resources (OERs) to increase data literacy among healthcare staff, covering the entire research process. This study focuses on examining existing OERs with a focus on data acquisition to identify the limitations of existing OERs and to develop new OERs for data collection based on these limitations. Methods The platforms ‘Twillo.de’, ‘Orca.nrw’, ‘Merlot.org’, ‘OER Commons’, ‘Serlo’, ‘VIMEO’, ‘Dailymotion’, ‘SlideShare’ and ‘YouTube’ were systematically searched for OERs focusing on quantitative and qualitative data acquisition. Only OERs published under a Creative Commons license were considered. A team of researchers then analyzed existing OERs with respect to production and content quality and sorted them into four competence levels of a learning objective matrix developed by Schüller (2020). Results Out of 4,383 search results, we identified 111 suitable OERs for qualitative data acquisition. Only 9 of these were related to health. For quantitative data acquisition, out of 4,415 search results, 145 suitable OERs were identified, 36 of which were health-related. Conclusions This study highlights the scarcity of suitable OERs for healthcare professionals to improve their health data literacy. This is for various reasons. Only a few OERs are specifically designed for healthcare professionals and, therefore, do not correspond to the lifeworld of learners in the explanatory examples. Additionally, the existing OERs are not sufficiently detailed in essential areas for learners and are customized to the competence level of the target group of healthcare professionals. Therefore, existing OERs must be adapted for healthcare professionals’ data literacy training. Key messages • The search for OERs on qualitative and quantitative data acquisition yields many results, but less than three percent of the results are suitable for training healthcare personnel. • Few Open Educational Resources (OERs) for healthcare professionals provide sufficient detail and alignment with their competency levels, which necessitates adaptations for data literacy training.

11.Q. Round table: A Guide for creating a code of ethics for public health professionals and institutions

Abstract The professional discipline of public health is driven by its values. Public health professionals face decisions that have far-reaching ethical implications. Our norms, values, beliefs and the way we see the world, as individuals, communities and institutions which serve us, do matter and fundamentally affect our decisions, behaviours, policies, and practice. The ability to be aware and reflect on norms and values when taking decisions, is a decisive professional virtue in public health practice. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and Association of Schools of Public Health in the European Region (ASPHER) Roadmap for the professionalisation of the public health workforce, has highlighted ethics as an essential pillar for professionalisation, a core competency, and the need for a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct for good public health practice. In order to further advance the issue the Global Network for Academic Public Health (GNAPH), ASPHER, the European Public Health Association (EUPHA), the UK Faculty of Public Health and other partners set up an expert international joint working group on public health ethics and law (PHELWG). The PHEL expert working group - which includes senior public health professionals, ethicists, lawyers and academics - has been working to carry out research and develop a guide for creating a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct for public health professionals and institutions. This has included consideration of the competencies, principles and values for good public health practice. The project has involved literature review, research and the wide professional experience of the international group of experts who have been working on the issue.The development of a guide for creating a code of ethics for public health professionals and institutions is part of the overall objective of the PHELWG to build a ethico-legal competency, capacity and resilience of public health workforce. The proposed Guide and related resources will be a timely resource, practical tool and support for public health professionals, organisations, or regulatory bodies to develop their own local country code of ethics and build further ethico-legal capacity of their public health professional workforce and institutions. Purpose of the roundtable workshop will be to: - present the guide on creating a code of ethics for public health public health professionals and institutions, which will be launched at that time - Share the proposed ethical competencies/skills, principles and values for good public health practice, with particular consideration of Indigenous knowledge and world views - reflect and consult with the workshop participants around the guide and the proposed pilot sites for implementing the Codes in various centres. Key messages • Development of Code of ethics and professional conduct is a key requirement for public health professionalization. • The Guide for creating code of ethics by international expert group provides significant resource for development of codes locally. Speakers/Panelists Kasia Czabanowska Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands Farhang Tahzib Faculty of Public Health, Haywards heath, UK Paul Athanasopoulos Public Health Department, Stirling, UK

A Narrative Review of Identity, Data and Location Privacy Techniques in Edge Computing and Mobile Crowdsourcing

As digital technology advances, the proliferation of connected devices poses significant challenges and opportunities in mobile crowdsourcing and edge computing. This narrative review focuses on the need for privacy protection in these fields, emphasizing the increasing importance of data security in a data-driven world. Through an analysis of contemporary academic literature, this review provides an understanding of the current trends and privacy concerns in mobile crowdsourcing and edge computing. We present insights and highlight advancements in privacy-preserving techniques, addressing identity, data, and location privacy. This review also discusses the potential directions that can be useful resources for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers.

Integrating AI and statistical methods for enhancing civil structural practices: current trends, practical issues, and future direction

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and statistical methods has revolutionized civil engineering by enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and reliability in various processes. This review systematically examines how advanced optimization techniques, including artificial neural networks (ANNs), Design of Experiments (DOE), and fuzzy logic (FL), are transforming civil engineering practices. It emphasizes the significant roles these methods play in addressing modern challenges such as structural health monitoring, damage detection, seismic design optimization, and concrete condition assessment. The review delves into case studies and real-world applications, showcasing the potential of these methods to create more resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective infrastructures. It critically examines the limitations and scalability of these techniques, identifying gaps in current research and practical challenges in real-world applications. The investigation also highlights the need for substantial computational resources, data privacy, security, and software interoperability. By addressing these issues, the review not only shows advancements in optimization techniques but also outlines future research directions, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical developments and practical applications in civil engineering. This review serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and policymakers interested in leveraging optimization techniques to advance civil engineering practices.

Chest Tubes and Pleural Drainage: History and Current Status in Pleural Disease Management

Thoracostomy and chest tube placement are key procedures in treating pleural diseases involving the accumulation of fluids (e.g., malignant effusions, serous fluid, pus, or blood) or air (pneumothorax) in the pleural cavity. Initially described by Hippocrates and refined through the centuries, chest drainage achieved a historical milestone in the 19th century with the creation of closed drainage systems to prevent the entry of air into the pleural space and reduce infection risk. The introduction of plastic materials and the Heimlich valve further revolutionized chest tube design and function. Technological advancements led to the availability of various chest tube designs (straight, angled, and pig-tail) and drainage systems, including PVC and silicone tubes with radiopaque stripes for better radiological visualization. Modern chest drainage units can incorporate smart digital systems that monitor and graphically report pleural pressure and evacuated fluid/air, improving patient outcomes. Suction application via wall systems or portable digital devices enhances drainage efficacy, although careful regulation is needed to avoid complications such as re-expansion pulmonary edema or prolonged air leak. To prevent recurrent effusion, particularly due to malignancy, pleurodesis agents can be applied through the chest tube. In cases of non-expandable lung, maintaining a long-term chest drain may be the most appropriate approach and procedures such as the placement of an indwelling pleural catheter can significantly improve quality of life. Continued innovations and rigorous training ensure that chest tube insertion remains a cornerstone of effective pleural disease management. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the historical evolution and modern advancements in pleural drainage. By addressing both current technologies and procedural outcomes, it serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals aiming to optimize pleural disease management and patient care.

Effect of Diet and Dietary Patterns on the Progression of Multiple Sclerosis: A Review

The link between diet and the progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a topic of growing interest and investigation within the medical community. This review explored the mechanisms through which dietary interventions can impact the course of MS and shape the clinical outcomes and quality of life of individuals with the disease. By synthesizing current knowledge from clinical studies and observational research, the review aimed to provide insights into the role of diet in managing MS. A comprehensive literature search was conducted, focusing on the effect of diet and dietary patterns on the progression of MS. Key findings indicated that individuals with higher diet quality exhibit reduced disability levels and lower symptom severity, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and adopting a holistic, healthy lifestyle in managing MS. The review also delved into the potential impact of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals on the progression of MS, highlighting the importance of adequate nutrient intake for optimal health outcomes. Additionally, the study explored the association between dietary intake variations and the severity of MS, suggesting that further investigation is needed to understand the potential implications of nutrient deficiencies in MS patients. Overall, the review serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals and individuals living with MS, providing evidence-based dietary approaches that may help optimize health outcomes and mitigate the burden of the disease. It also calls for future research directions in the critical area of dietary management of MS to enhance our understanding and improve patient care.

Changes in healthcare seeking behaviors among caretakers of children in the previously occupied ISIS territory: Hadeetha, Anbar, Iraq: a cross-sectional survey of 415 households.

The western province of Anbar, and the district of Hadeetha, have suffered direct impacts from the second United States led invasion (2003) through the ISIS invasion (2014-2017). With the primary health care centers being closed or inaccessible, the remaining population experienced changes in health seeking. The area of Anbar, Iraq remains largely remote from the discourse of health system recovery post-conflict. The objective of this study was to describe changes in health seeking behaviors of caregivers of children ages 12-72months of age in Hadeetha, Anbar, Iraq from the conflict period of ISIS (Islamic State of Syria and Iraq), 2014-2017, to the post-conflict period, 2021. This was a mixed-methods study composed of a cross-sectional 415 household survey and focus groups in Hadeetha, Anbar, Iraq. Caretakers of children were interviewed from February to April 2021. Children were sampled from a list of children who missed at least one vaccination appointment without a return for follow-up from the birth cohorts of 2014 to 2020. Healthcare workers focus groups and key informant interviews occurred from 2019 to 2021 centered around experiences from the 2014 to 2021 period. In the post-conflict period, there were no differences in health seeking based upon provider type between respondents. Physicians were primary healthcare providers in the post-conflict period for 79% of respondents versus only 47% in the conflict period. Healthcare workers described major barriers to delivering services in Hadeetha during the ISIS occupation due to infrastructure damage, threats of violence, decreased medical personnel, lack of compensation and disruptions in medical supplies from 2014 to 2017. This study provides insight into health seeking challenges among the many individuals who remained in Hadeetha during the ISIS occupation. Health use patterns by provider type mirror the concerns the healthcare providers shared: limited availability, efflux of professional workers, limited resources and security challenges to providing care. Positive trends toward increased access to physicians during periods of peace are an encouraging marker for continued population resilience during the post-conflict period. Recovery efforts continue to be hampered by internal sectarian discord within Iraq as well as insufficient resources to maintain health services as well as provide catch-up health services, such as immunizations.

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Communication Sciences and Disorders: A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis.

As artificial intelligence (AI) takes an increasingly prominent role in health care, a growing body of research is being dedicated to its application in the investigation of communication sciences and disorders (CSD). This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, developers, and professionals seeking to comprehend the evolving landscape of AI in CSD research. We conducted a bibliometric analysis of AI-based research in the discipline of CSD published up to December 2023. Utilizing the Web of Science and Scopus databases, we identified 15,035 publications, with 4,375 meeting our inclusion criteria. Based on the bibliometric data, we examined publication trends and patterns, characteristics of research activities, and research hotspot tendencies. From 1985 onwards, there has been a consistent annual increase in publications, averaging 16.51%, notably surging from 2012 to 2023. The primary communication disorders studied include autism, aphasia, dysarthria, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Noteworthy AI models instantiated in CSD research encompass support vector machine, convolutional neural network, and hidden Markov model, among others. Compared to AI applications in other fields, the adoption of AI in CSD has lagged slightly behind. While CSD studies primarily use classical machine learning techniques, there is a growing trend toward the integration of deep learning methods. AI technology offers significant benefits for both research and clinical practice in CSD, but it also presents certain challenges. Moving forward, collaboration among technological, research, and clinical domains is essential to empower researchers and speech-language pathologists to effectively leverage AI technology for the study, diagnosis, assessment, and rehabilitation of CSD. https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27162564.

Job insecurity, life satisfaction and the moderating role of job satisfaction in South Korea

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the influences of job insecurity on life satisfaction and to assess the moderating effects of several facets of job satisfaction between job insecurity and life satisfaction. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on the survey conducted in Seoul, this paper runs the hierarchical regression models. Findings The results of this study suggest that job insecurity is detrimental to life satisfaction. Satisfaction with pay and co-workers enhances life satisfaction. Only satisfaction with co-workers exerts a moderating influence. Research limitations/implications The results obtained from Seoul may reflect sample-specific dynamics that may be different from other areas, which may limit the generalizability of the findings of this paper. Practical implications Organizations would be dysfunctional if workers are not satisfied with their life. Therefore, human resource professions must be vigilant about fostering conditions supportive human relations. Originality/value Previous studies revealed that job insecurity has the undermining impact on employees’ life satisfaction. However, there has been little research done to examine the moderating factors of job satisfaction. In this study, it is argued that satisfaction with co-workers is a critical condition in moderating the effect of job insecurity on life satisfaction.

Healthcare professionals' perceptions on providing support to informal carers within stroke care.

The sudden nature of stroke onset does not provide carers with sufficient time to prepare for the demands associated with caring. Healthcare professionals can have a vital role in providing carers with support and training, which may reduce carer stress and strain, and allow for better health and rehabilitation outcomes for the stroke survivor. The experiences of healthcare professionals on supporting carers in stroke care, however, remain unclear. To understand the experiences and perceptions of healthcare professionals working in stroke care on implementing resources and support to informal stroke carers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 healthcare professionals (5 occupational therapists, 5 physiotherapists, 1 psychologist) with at least 12 months' experience in working with stroke survivors. Interviews ranged from 25-70 minutes in duration, and were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis. Three overarching categories that were explored were: (1) Experiences of working in stroke care and supporting carers; (2) Recommendations for a program designed for carers; and (3) Future priorities in stroke care. Participants discussed a variety of strategies they utilised to support carers including collaborating with other healthcare professionals and utilising skills and experience. Healthcare professionals highlighted the need for additional resources that are designed specifically for carers and explored key topics including carer stress and fatigue, support services, stroke education, and how to look after oneself. Participants identified priorities for stroke care including additional professional training and resource availability. This study provided a unique insight from the perspectives of healthcare professionals on supporting carers. Participants identified the need for additional training and resources to equip healthcare professionals to better support carers. Future programs designed for carers should be informed by the needs and experiences of both informal carers and healthcare professionals.

A comprehensive review of radiation shielding concrete: Properties, design, evaluation, and applications

AbstractThis review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of radiation shielding concrete, covering its properties, design, evaluation, and applications. It begins with an introduction, stating the objective and scope. The paper explores radiation shielding basics, including ionizing radiation, shielding principles, and materials used for shielding. Concrete's properties relevant to shielding, radiation attenuation mechanisms, and factors affecting its efficiency are discussed. Different types of radiation shielding concrete are examined, along with their applications. The design and formulation of shielding concrete, including mix proportions, optimization techniques, and quality control, are presented. Evaluation methods and standards are discussed. Lastly, challenges, future directions, and emerging technologies are outlined. This review paper serves as a valuable resource for professionals involved in radiation shielding. The review on radiation shielding concrete highlighted its effectiveness in attenuating ionizing radiation, emphasizing material composition, density, and thickness as key design factors. Evaluation methods, such as gamma spectroscopy and Monte Carlo simulations, are discussed, demonstrating its versatile applications in nuclear facilities, healthcare, and space exploration.

Synthetic Image Data Generation via Rendering Techniques for Training AI-Based Instance Segmentation

Synthetic image data generation has gained popularity in computer vision and machine learning in recent years. The work introduces a technique for creating artificial image data by utilizing 3D files and rendering methods in Python and Blender. The technique employs BlenderProc, a rendering tool for generating artificial images, to efficiently create a substantial amount of data. The output of the method is saved in JSON format, containing COCO annotations of objects in the images, facilitating seamless integration with current machine-learning pipelines. The paper shows that the created synthetic data can be used to enhance object data during simulation. The method can enhance the accuracy and robustness of machine-learning models by modifying simulation parameters like lighting, camera position, and object orientation to create a variety of images. This is especially beneficial for applications that require significant amounts of labelled real-world data, which can be time-consuming and labour-intensive to obtain. The study addresses the constraints and potential prejudices of creating synthetic data, emphasizing the significance of verifying and assessing the generated data prior to its utilization in machine learning models. Synthetic data generation can be a valuable tool for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of machine learning and computer vision applications. However, it is crucial to thoroughly assess the potential limitations and biases of the generated data. This paper emphasizes the potential of synthetic data generation to enhance the accuracy and resilience of machine learning models, especially in scenarios with limited access to labelled real-world data. This paper introduces a method that efficiently produces substantial amounts of synthetic image data with COCO annotations, serving as a valuable resource for professionals in computer vision and machine learning.

Comprehensive guide to tobacco control policy implementation

Background: Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease worldwide. Effective tobacco control policies are essential in mitigating these health risks. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2003, provides a comprehensive framework for implementing evidence-based tobacco control measures globally. This project aims to develop and implement robust tobacco control policies to reduce tobacco consumption and its associated health risks. Methods and Materials: The project involved a comprehensive review of existing tobacco control policies, data collection on tobacco use and related health outcomes, and the development of a multi-sectoral task force. Key strategies included setting clear goals, stakeholder engagement, public awareness campaigns, and the drafting of legislative and policy documents. Implementation mechanisms such as enforcement and evaluation systems were also established to ensure compliance and measure the policy's impact. Results: The implementation of the tobacco control policies resulted in a significant reduction in smoking prevalence and exposure to secondhand smoke. Public awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco use increased, and there was enhanced support for smoking cessation services. The project also identified best practices and strategies that can be adopted by other regions to achieve similar outcomes. Conclusion: This project highlights the importance of comprehensive research, effective coordination, and well-planned implementation in developing and executing tobacco control policies. The findings and recommendations presented serve as a valuable resource for policymakers and public health professionals aiming to reduce smoking rates and protect public health. Continued collaboration and adaptation of these strategies are essential for sustaining the progress made in tobacco control.

Robotic Button Mushroom Harvesting Systems: A Review of Design, Mechanism, and Future Directions

The global demand for button mushrooms has surged in recent years, driven by their health benefits, creating a significant challenge for the mushroom industry in meeting this increasing demand. The increasing reliance on human labor, which is becoming unsustainable due to labor shortages and rising wage costs, highlights the urgent need for automated harvesting solutions. This review examines the integration of automated systems in button mushroom harvesting, delving into the key components such as robots, mechanisms, machine elements, programming, and algorithms. It offers a thorough analysis of the performance, design, operational mechanisms, and advantages and limitations of robotic systems, comparing the different methods employed in automated harvesting. This paper compares the performance of all the mushroom harvesters, including the commercially available ones with manual harvesting, and identifies their potential and limitations. The commercial harvesters are shown to pick 2000 mushrooms per hour on average, which is similar to how much a skilled worker picks at the same time. However, commercial automation harvesting has a relatively low success rate, high initial cost, high operating cost, and energy consumption, identifying areas for future research and challenges. This paper serves as a valuable resource for researchers and industry professionals striving to advance automated harvesting technology and improve its efficiency in meeting the rising demand for button mushrooms.

Staff Perspectives on the Role of Public Libraries in Facilitating College Literacy

The decision-making process for potential college students in the United States is overwhelming because of the volume of information available and the complexity of higher education systems. Prospective students must consider institutional rankings, academic programs, and financial aid opportunities in addition to completing numerous forms. For some students, there exist personal and professional advisors and resources to assist with navigating the process. Others with less social and cultural capital must figure out the system with little or no assistance while facing other barriers. Public libraries can be a resource for the college-bound community; however, research shows that public libraries are not actively engaged in supporting this user group. To provide focused, quality information services to any demographic, it is important to understand the perspectives of public-facing information workers. Through a cross-sectional online questionnaire of library staff across four states, this study sought to learn staff perspectives on the role of public libraries in serving prospective college students. The survey received 160 responses of which 100 open-ended responses pertained to the role of public libraries. Qualitative inductive analysis point to three core themes on the role of public libraries in serving this population, that of connector, provider, and supporter. A fourth theme suggests staff see the role as one for others to meet. This article provides insight into past examinations of public library support of college literacy offering an opening to further discussions on serving this overlooked user group.

Every country needs a national STEM teacher corps

Every country needs a national STEM teacher corps The US National Science Foundation has initiated the National STEM Teacher Corps program to support STEM teachers. Nancy Butler Songer, Associate Provost of STEM Education, discusses her efforts to assist primary school teachers in guiding young children to create solutions for local environmental issues. In many countries, we are challenged by a shortage of well-trained and well-supported teachers. In a 2021 study, more than half (54%) of American teachers surveyed reported their likelihood of leaving the teaching field was somewhat likely or very likely. While American policy documents such as the Framework for K-12 Science Education (NRC, 2012) propose that students learn science and engineering through investigations and design, many classroom teachers lack professional development, time, supportive environments, and resources to champion students’ problem-solving, leading to solutions to local environmental problems.