Sustainable Cold Chain Management: An Evaluation of Predictive Waste Management Models

The integration of advanced predictive models is pivotal for optimizing demand forecasting and inventory management in cold chain logistics. This study evaluates the application of machine learning techniques—ARIMA (Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average) and Multiple Linear Regression (MLR)—to forecast demand trends and analyze key drivers in a mid-sized cold chain operation. Trained on a multi-year sales dataset, the ARIMA model excelled in capturing seasonal patterns, while the MLR model effectively incorporated multivariable factors such as temperature, product type, and promotional activity. Both models demonstrated strong predictive accuracy, with low Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), offering reliable and computationally efficient solutions for mid-sized operations. The findings underscore the novelty of combining ARIMA’s time-series capabilities with MLR’s multivariable analysis to address complex demand drivers. By aligning with Resource-Based View (RBV) and Supply Chain Resilience Theory, this research advances the understanding of AI-driven predictive models as strategic tools for enhancing operational efficiency, reducing waste, and promoting sustainability in cold chain logistics. This work sets the stage for future innovations in AI-driven supply chain optimization

Understanding the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of lifestyle modification interventions in adults with learning disabilities: a mixed-methods systematic review

Background Adults with learning disabilities face increased risks of unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, including alcohol consumption, smoking, low physical activity, sedentary behaviour and poor diet. Lifestyle modification interventions that target health-risk behaviours can prevent or reduce their negative effects. The goal of this project was to investigate the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of lifestyle modification interventions in adults with learning disabilities. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the effectiveness of lifestyle modification interventions and their components in targeting health risk behaviours in adults with learning disabilities. Major electronic databases, clinical trial registries, grey literature, and citations of systematic reviews and included studies were searched in January 2021 (updated in February 2022). We included randomised and non-randomised controlled trials targeting alcohol consumption, smoking, low physical activity only, sedentary behaviour and poor diet in adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with learning disabilities. Studies were also coded based on the extent of use of theories and behaviour change techniques in interventions. Risk of bias in studies was assessed using appropriate tools. A realist synthesis of qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods literature was conducted to complement the systematic review findings by identifying key intervention mechanisms that are likely to improve the health of adults with learning disabilities. Data were synthesised in the form of a programme theory regarding complex causal mechanisms and how these interact with social context to produce outcomes. All findings were integrated into a logic model. A patient and public involvement group provided input and insights throughout the project. Results A total of 80 studies with 4805 participants were included in the systematic review. The complexity of lifestyle modification interventions was dismantled by identifying six core components that influenced outcomes. These components could be present in interventions targeting single or multiple health risk behaviors, either as individual elements or in various combinations. Interventions on alcohol and smoking behaviours were found to be effective, but this was based on limited evidence. The effectiveness of interventions targeting low physical activity only or multiple behaviours (low physical activity only, sedentary behaviours and poor diet) was mixed. All interventions had a varying level of statistical significance. The intervention-level network meta-analysis for weight management outcomes showed none of the interventions was associated with a statistically significant change in outcomes when compared to treatment as usual and each other. Similar findings were observed in the component network meta-analysis. A variety of theories and behaviour change techniques were employed in the development and adaptation of interventions. Most studies had a high and moderate risk of bias. A total of 79 studies, reporting the experiences of more than 3604 adults with intellectual disabilities and over 490 caregivers, were included in the realist synthesis. The resulting programme theory highlighted the contexts and mechanisms relating to support involvement, negotiating the balance between autonomy and behaviour change, fostering social connectedness and fun, the accessibility and suitability of intervention strategies and delivery, along with the broader behavioural pathways to lifestyle change. It also brought out the importance of working with people with lived experiences when developing and evaluating interventions. Our logic model, bringing together the findings of both syntheses, provides guidance on the design of future interventions. Discussion This study was the first comprehensive mixed-methods evidence synthesis to explore lifestyle modification interventions targeting multiple unhealthy lifestyle behaviours in adults with learning disabilities. We conclude that future research could benefit from codeveloping interventions and population-specific assessment frameworks with people with lived experiences. There is a need for more high-quality research with appropriate outcomes and a focus on qualitative and mixed-methods research to better understand what works for whom and why. Trial registration This trial is registered as PROSPERO CRD 42020223290. Funding This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: NIHR128755) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 29, No. 4. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information

A Preliminary Examination of Perfectionistic Self-Presentation and Doping in Athletes

Perfectionism has been linked to doping in sport. However, research to date has focused on trait perfectionism, and has neglected other, possibly relevant aspects of perfectionism. One such aspect is perfectionistic self-presentation – the interpersonal expression of perfectionism. Therefore, the aim of the present research note was to provide a first exploratory examination of whether perfectionistic self-presentation is related to doping in sport. To do so, we recruited two samples of athletes (total N = 362) who responded to measures of perfectionistic self-presentation (perfectionistic self-promotion, nondisplay of imperfection, nondisclosure of imperfection), positive attitudes towards doping (Sample 1), and doping willingness (Sample 2). Results of bivariate correlational analyses, showed that nondisclosure of imperfection was positively correlated with positive attitudes towards doping, and perfectionistic self-promotion and nondisplay of imperfection were positively correlated with doping willingness. When controlling for the overlap between perfectionistic self-presentation dimensions, in regression analyses, only nondisclosure of imperfection emerged as a positive predictor of positive attitudes towards doping (Sample 1). The findings provide tentative evidence that perfectionistic self-presentation may be associated with doping, at least at the bivariate level, and in doing so, highlights the need for future doping research to consider other aspects of perfectionism

A qualitative analysis of strategies for managing work-related stress among optometrists in the United Kingdom

SIGNIFICANCE: Work-related stress is common in the optometry profession, yet there is limited research on how optometrists and organizations manage and mitigate these issues. This study explores strategies to reduce work-related stress and provides recommendations for individuals, employers, and the profession, to inform future support and guidance. PURPOSE: To explore how optometrists self-manage work-related stress and to identify potential strategies that employers can implement to minimize stress and foster a supportive and positive work environment. METHODS: This study was a qualitative analysis of 1284 responses from an online cross-sectional survey of optometrists registered with the General Optical Council in the United Kingdom during 2024. Content analysis was applied to responses to three different open questions covering work-related stress: what participants do to minimize stress in the workplace; what employers could do; and which aspects of their role participants find most enjoyable. RESULTS: We identified four themes that describe personal strategies for managing work-related stress: (1) in-work approaches; (2) work–life balance strategies; (3) leisure and social support activities; and (4) personal and professional interventions. Three themes described actions employers could take: (1) clinical efficiency and workload management; (2) clinical-commercial business strategy; and (3) workplace culture and emotional well-being. In terms of their role, clinical and patient-related work was the most enjoyable. Many expressed a strong interest in professional development, with higher clinical qualifications, particularly in independent therapeutic prescribing, being the most aspirational form of self-development. CONCLUSIONS: Addressing work-related stress requires a collaborative approach where individuals adopt personal coping strategies, and employers and the profession implement tailored, multifactorial interventions to mitigate systemic stressors. Such combined efforts are essential to foster supportive work environments, reduce stress across the workforce, and drive the systemic changes necessary to enhance professional well-being and patient care in optometry

The Investment and Valuation Nexus: Exploring the Perceptions of Nigerian Real Estate Valuation Professionals

Purpose Despite the importance of investment fundamentals in determining commercial property value, there is a knowledge gap in terms of how investment factors are integrated into the valuation process in developing markets, particularly in Africa. This study investigates how property valuers in Nigeria perceive the investment-valuation nexus, and how this influences their valuation processes and output. Design/methodology/approach Semi-structured interviews were deployed to 14 professional property valuers across Nigeria. The discussion from the interview transcripts was subjected to thematic and content analysis using the K-mean clustering learning algorithm and Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modelling. Findings Key findings indicate that valuers consider a range of investment factors, including market conditions, location and property features. However, the study highlights a potential gap in the consideration of cash flow analysis and tenant-related factors. The findings suggest that a more comprehensive approach to valuation is necessary to enhance the accuracy and reliability of property valuations in Nigeria. Practical implications The findings have significant implications for Nigeria and other emerging African markets considering the high volume of property investment capital received by the countries. With key investment fundamentals not being sufficiently captured in the valuation process in line with best practices, current valuation output may be omitting important factors thereby undermining their accuracy and reliability. Originality/value This study provides alternative perspectives on the investment-valuation relationship through the unique lenses of key stakeholders (valuers) in the context of developing countries. This context is important, given that these economies are usually perceived to be less sophisticated and often present significant challenges around standardisation and bias. Secondly, the study provides some insights into the heterogeneity associated with the valuation of assets in highly heterogeneous markets such as Nigeria. Thirdly, the study adopts the K-mean clustering learning algorithm and LDA topic modelling approaches, which have previously not been applied to property valuation

“Space invaders” revisited: counter-narratives of two (b)older south Asian female academics

In this paper, we revisit Puwar’s concept of “space invader” as two (b)older South Asian female academics at a later stage in their professional lives. Drawing on Critical Race Theory and a counter-storytelling approach, we reflexively narrate our analysis of a series of research conversations through the catalyst of “space invader”, and how this led us to explore stages of voice across space and time. Including conversational metaphors in places, we proudly centre our mother tongue languages (Hindi and Panjabi) as we reflect through the scents of our storied memories. We discuss how our professional and community-based equity roles and experiences entwine as an embodiment of driving racial justice. We use metaphoric hooks to chart our herstories of hope as we navigate White fragility and often hostile spaces, seeking refuge in “safe” and supportive spaces as a form of collective healing through speaking, listening and simply being “ourselves”. Through our research conversations, we analyse the traumas, isolation and contentment of working at the margins of decision-making spaces, and the challenges of “trespassing” across boundaries towards the centre, where we have never really belonged, yet courageously taken the journey. “Space Invaders” revisited has required us both to analyse the painful racialised memories of our bodies, minds and souls, the visceral violence of racism, the silencing (and confident roars) of our voices, and racial battle fatigue

Unpacking ‘ultra-processed’ foods: what nurses need to know

‘Ultra-processed’ foods (UPFs) have received increasing attention over recent years, with concerns around the potential link between high intake and adverse health outcomes. However, there is a lack of clear evidence supporting the link between consumption of UPFs and disease. The current narrative around UPFs may lead to confusion around healthy eating; given that nurses are frequently perceived as trusted healthcare professionals and have a role in supporting healthy eating in clinical and community settings, an understanding around current guidance, diet and consumption of UPFs is needed. This article presents an overview of current evidence and provides nurses with practical approaches for discussing diet and healthy eating with patients, as well as reflecting on their own dietary intake

Supporting women in relation to menopause knowledge and awareness: lessons learned from a gender specific educational programme

Background: International evidence suggests that women experience a range of health and wellbeing challenges during menopause, and perimenopause. Current literature highlights the need for women to be educated about menopause, yet limited evidence exists in England about community-based menopause programmes that focus on educating women on this issue. Study’s objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate a gender-specific (women-only) menopause-focused educational programme delivered in one English local authority area. Setting: A bespoke educational programme on menopause was delivered to women (n= 146) living in one geographical area, via 10 voluntary and community sector organisations, between July 2023 and March 2024. Method: This mixed methods, co-produced evaluation gathered data using pre- and post-course questionnaires (n= 51), learning logs (n= 7), observations of meetings (n= 5) and semi-structured interviews (professionals n= 11; course attendees, n= 7). Differences between pre- and post-test scores were calculated using the Wilcoxon signed rank test and effect sizes were identified. Qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results: The programme met its aims. The evaluation data show that this community-based, women-only educational programme was valued by delivery partners and course attendees alike, all of whom noted learning through their participation. Women as course attendees increased their knowledge and were able to use this education to improve their health. Conclusion: The programme worked well for the women who accessed it. However, it did not reach all the women who may have needed it, and it was only funded for a short while. Longer term, more sustainable educational provision to educate and inform women about menopause is required

The Incidence of Sports-Related Concussion in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Sport-related concussions (SRC) are a concern for young athletes due to the potential for long-term health problems. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the literature exploring SRC incidence in youth sports to understand the associated risks. Methods Medline, Embase, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases were searched without language restrictions up to September 2024. Studies were included if they (i) reported data for calculation of SRC incidence, (ii) were a prospective cohort study, and (iii) included a sample aged ≤ 18 years. Studies that reported Athlete Exposure (AE) or Player Hours (PH) as SRC incidence data measures were included in a multi-level random-effects meta-analysis. Additional analysis explored SRC incidence based on age, sex, country, year of data collection, setting, and level of contact. Results Of the 6474 studies reviewed for eligibility, 116 studies were accepted for a systematic review and 99 in the meta-analysis. A total of 3,025,911 participants were included in the review (59% male, 41% female); however, 41% of studies did not report sample size. The pooled incidence rate of SRC per 1000 AE was found to be 1.41 across 21 sports, and 4.36 per 1000 PH across 7 sports. The highest incidence per 1000 AE were in taekwondo, rugby union, and ice hockey, and the highest incidence per 1000 PH were in rugby 7s, rugby league, and rugby union. Conclusions This systematic review and meta-analysis can serve as an updated baseline for risk of concussion among youth athletes across various sports. Trial registration: This systematic review was registered on OSF Registries (https://osf.io/v298s)

‘Everything I can do at home, I will do it at home’: the materialities, temporalities, and spatialities of telemedicine abortion care

The advent of telemedicine abortion in 2020 in the United States meant that abortion care was increasingly pushed out of clinical settings and into the home. Yet, within the context of abortion inequalities and restrictions in the US, there is often more focus on provision of and access to medication abortion via telemedicine than there is on what happens after the abortion pills are acquired. This paper brings together and advances scholarship in abortion, care, and home geographies to address this empirical gap by exploring the material, temporal and spatial dimensions of telemedicine abortion care at home, and examining how these dimensions shape the embodied, emotional, and affective experience of abortion care. Telemedicine abortion allows individuals to self-manage the timing, symptoms, and space of their abortion, thereby creating a caring atmosphere. A geographical perspective on telemedicine abortion reveals that taking the abortion pills at home shapes the experience of abortion care