bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTIVENESS OF IMPLEMENTING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGIES IN ENTERPRISE BUSINESS PROCESSES
Authors: Dymchenko O. , Matveeva N. , Kozyr Ye.
Published: October 2024

The article examines the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in an enterprise’s business processes. In the beginning, the authors consider the essence of artificial intelligence and determine the theoretical basis of its impact on the activities of enterprises. Next, we analyse the dynamics and structure of the AI market. We determine AI as one of the most promising areas implemented in the companies’ business processes, allowing them to obtain significant savings in labour and financial resources. We provide information on the use of AI in enterprises’ activities by the economic sectors. The study establishes that AI is gaining traction in all sectors of the economy, and most of all in healthcare, manufacturing, and finance. Today, AI technologies create new opportunities for companies to provide them with broad powers in various industries. After all, every process implementing AI optimises costs and positively impacts the overall financial performance. We specify that companies need to develop a collaboration of people and technology that will complement each other and have a strong union of knowledge, speed, experience, and skills. The study shows that the introduction of AI has a positive impact on the level of profitability of companies because, with the popularisation of AI in 2022, more global companies began to implement these technologies in their business processes, and companies that use these technologies became in demand in the market, which in turn had a positive impact on profit growth. The study resulted in proposals for using artificial intelligence technologies in the business processes of Ukrainian enterprises. By implementing AI in their business processes, enterprises will receive significant savings in their resources, both human and financial. It is necessary to note that the effectiveness of AI will depend on its collaboration with humans; the technology can be a good solution in a situation where artificial intelligence handles some of the functions related to the processing of a data set, and people use the results obtained in this way as the basis for final decision-making.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, business process, enterprise, technology, management.
Exploring Somaesthetic Design and Phenomenology in Understanding Paraplegic Mobility
Authors: Guspara Winta Adhitia
Published: October 2024

This study explores how somaesthetic design and phenomenological approaches can offer insights into the mobility experiences of individuals with paraplegia. By examining how design, technology, and symbols intersect with the challenges faced by paraplegic individuals, the study presents an alternative perspective on disability that emphasizes user experience, independence, and freedom of mobility. The paper discusses the role of design in shaping assistive devices and considers the implications for user-centered design practices. While the scope is primarily focused on the experiences of paraplegic individuals, the insights offered may inform broader design practices for enhancing mobility and accessibility.
Tracing the Evolution of Video Game Culture in Malaysia: A Sociohistorical Analysis
Authors: Tengku Sabri Tengku Intan Maimunah , Md Syed Md Azalanshah , Shamshudeen Rosya Izyanie
Published: October 2024

Recent times have witnessed a surge in the popularity of video gaming among Malaysians. In this article, we explore the evolution of video game culture in Malaysia from the 1980s to the early 2020s, illustrating its transformation from a casual pastime to a growing contributor to the nation’s digital economy. We aim to delineate the sociohistorical development of video gaming in Malaysia, examining its emergence and integration into everyday contemporary culture. We conducted an online search for relevant academic work, government and industry reports, media coverage, and digital platforms that specifically addressed the Malaysian context and more broadly the Southeast Asian context. Following this, we performed qualitative content analysis, initially to establish a chronological overview by decades, and thematically to identify the four key agents of the players, the audiences, the industry, and the society. Our findings highlight the dynamic interplay between these agents and detail the transformative impact of the recent COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on gaming practices. We conclude the article by reiterating the cultural significance of video games for Malaysians and identify opportunities for further research.
Exploring the Role of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Crafting Brand Experiences: Insights from Selected Case Studies
Authors: Limantara Quina Reivaldi
Published: October 2024

This study explores the role of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) in enhancing brand experiences, focusing on selected case studies from a niche art gallery and a global beverage brand. Generative AI - a subfield of AI - is a smart tool that can autonomously generate content, offering exciting possibilities for brand storytelling and consumer engagement through descriptive text prompts. In today's experience-driven economy, brands are no longer just offering commodities, goods, and services, they are striving to create personalised experiences to make them more memorable and meaningful to customers. In the 4E’s of individual realms of experience – entertainment, education, escape, and aesthetic – powerful brand narratives are needed. Using an analysis of interviews and real-life case studies like the immersive art exhibitions at Unicorns Young Collectors Club (UYCC), Surabaya, Indonesia, and the advertising of multinational companies, Coca- Cola, this study finds that brands who utilise GAI can effectively enhance brand experiences, make brand stories feel more personal and engaging. This not only helps them stay competitive in the marketplace but also strengthens their connection with customers. In conclusion, this study contributes to our understanding of the pivotal role of Generative AI in building brand experience. While the findings offer valuable insights, further research is recommended to expand the scope and generalizability across industries and regions. Generative AI holds promise as a powerful tool for shaping the future of branding, enabling brands to create experiences that resonate with consumers in meaningful and impactful ways.
Niveles de concientización ambiental de universitarios del área de ciencias económico administrativas de la Universidad de Guadalajara
Authors: González Medina Martha Virginia , Corvera Valenzuela María Isabel , Zerecero Valderrama Giovanna
Published: October 2024

La preocupación por los problemas medioambientales y fenómenos globales han generado el interés por estudiar cuál es el grado de conciencia ambiental de los seres humanos que les permitan reconocer, enfrentar y actuar ante dichos problemas, particularmente de la población estudiantil de pregrado, ya que son actores relevantes en la sociedad. Por lo que el propósito de este documento es conocer los niveles de concientización ambiental de los estudiantes de licenciatura en el área de ciencias económico-administrativas de la Universidad de Guadalajara a partir de la aplicación de una encuesta a estudiantes sobre la relación entre turismo y medio ambiente (EETMA), y así visualizar áreas de oportunidad y relevancia a corto plazo para el sistema educativo.
Posibilidades para constituir un Distrito médico para el desarrollo territorial y saludable de La Piedad, Michoacán
Authors: Téllez Valencia Carlos , Mejía Guadarrama Leticia Isabel
Published: October 2024

Con las consecuencias reales y latentes de la reciente crisis pandémica por el Covid-19 se hizo evidente la necesidad de analizar los temas de salud pública y proponer alternativas que, por un parte, atendieran los problemas de salud y, por otra, coadyuvaran al desarrollo territorial de La Piedad hacia una ciudad saludable. El objetivo del presente documento es valorar la posibilidad de generar un distrito con base en los servicios médicos locales que se han multiplicado y extendido por la ciudad en los últimos veinte años, aunque con crecimiento urbano desordenado y descoordinación entre los distintos actores empresariales y gubernamentales. La metodología considero un análisis mixto dado que se hizo un diagnóstico estadístico y generaron grupos focales con el gremio de médicos y prestadores de servicios de laboratorio y farmacéuticos, así como con los funcionarios públicos locales; además de generar una cartografía a partir de recorridos de campo. Como una de las conclusiones generales, podemos decir que se logró establecer el estado actual de los servicios médicos de esta ciudad, y que se generó entre los actores involucrados la sensibilidad para ver a este sector como una vía de acceso hacia una ciudad saludable.
Amputation Level and Prolactin: Features of the Hormonal Profile of Paralympic Athletes
Authors:   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа, Mikheev S.Yu. , Pustovoit V.I. ,   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа, Yurku K.A. ,   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа, Ivanov M.V. ,   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа
Published: October 2024

This article is devoted to the medical and biological support features for athletes with limb amputations. It presents data which show that such athletes have several functional, physiological and psychological characteristics. The article may be of interest to specialists in the field of sports medicine, rehabilitation, and physiology, as well as coaches and athletes working with people with disabilities.
Metanephric Adenoma: Three Case Report and Short Review
Authors:   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа, Shehter M.A. , Lishchuk S.V. ,   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа, Dubova E.A. ,   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа, Pavlov K.A. ,   International Office, State Research Center – Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center  of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russiа
Published: October 2024

Metanephric adenoma (MA) is a rare epithelial tumor, composed of monotonous embryonal epithelial cells usually with BRAF mutations. It usually demonstrates indolent behavior and has an excellent prognosis while clinically and radiologically can imitate malignancy. We present a short literature review and three case reports. Here are shown differential diagnostic difficulties with Wilms tumor and papillary renal cell carcinoma.
Self-testing strategy to eliminate hepatitis C as per World Health Organization’s goal: Analysis of disease burden and cost-effectiveness
Authors: Shin Gyeongseon , Kim Beom Kyung , Bae SeungJin , Lee Hankil , Ahn Sang Hoon
Published: October 2024

Background/Aims: The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) by 2030; therefore, widespread HCV screening is required. The WHO recommends HCV self-testing (HCVST) as a new approach. We aimed to evaluate disease burden reduction using the HCVST screening strategy and identify the most cost-effective approach.Methods: We developed a dynamic open-cohort Markov model to assess the long-term effects and costeffectiveness of HCVST in the Republic of Korea from 2024 to 2030. Strategies for comparison included universal, birth cohort, high-risk group screening, and no screening, focusing on the following: (1) incremental costeffectiveness ratio (ICER) per disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) saved; (2) severe liver disease cases; and (3) liverrelated death reduction.Results: Universal HCVST screening is the most effective strategy for achieving the WHO goal by 2030, substantially lowering the incidence of severe liver disease by 71% and preventing liver-related deaths by 69%, thereby averting 267,942 DALYs. Moreover, with an ICER of US$8,078 per DALY and high cost-effectiveness, the sensitivity results prove that cost-effectiveness is robust. Although high-risk group screening offers the lowest cost compared with other strategies, its effectiveness in preventing severe liver disease is minimal, falling short of the current WHO goal.Conclusions: Our study confirms that universal HCVST screening is a cost-effective strategy aligned with the WHO goal to eliminate HCV by 2030. Despite its higher costs compared to risk-based screening, the disease burden can be significantly reduced by providing effective HCVST access to individuals who might otherwise not be tested.
NEW FACTS FOR OKSANA DRAI-KHMARA ASHER’S BIOGRAPHY
Authors: Vusatiuk Nataliia
Published: October 2024

The paper reconstructs the biography of Oksana Drai-Khmara Asher, the daughter of Mykhailo Drai-Khmara and a literary critic, poet, translator, and pianist. The research is based on documents recently transferred to the Department of Manuscripts and Textual Studies of Taras Shevchenko Institute of Literature of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, as well as the memoirs of her contemporaries. Oksana Drai-Khmara’s documents provide different dates and places of her birth. According to the archival sources, the researcher established that the actual date of birth was March 20, 1923.
From July 1937 to the summer of 1938, Oksana Drai-Khmara, along with her mother, was exiled to Belebei, Bashkiria. In October 1942, she moved to Prague, where she studied at the Higher School of the Institute of Music. The German period of her life lasted from June 1945 to September 1946 when Oksana Drai-Khmara changed several places of residence (Lichtenhaag, Munich, and Hanover). After moving to Belgium, she studied at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels. Emigration to the United States of America took place on May 23, 1951. From 1952 to 1956, Oksana studied at the Slavic Department of Columbia University, where she obtained her master’s degree. In 1964–1967, Asher studied at the Sorbonne University in Paris, where she defended her PhD thesis. On her return to America, Drai-Khmara taught Russian language and literature at Long Island University and the Polytechnic Institute of New York and was actively involved in the Ukrainian diaspora’s life in the USA.
In addition to documenting Oksana Drai-Khmara’s educational and career path, the author of the paper revealed unknown details of her first marriage to the historian Ihor Shevchenko and provided information about her second spouse Peter Asher.
Long-term energy system modelling in developing countries: an open-source optimization approach for energy transition analysis in Ghana
Authors: Akpahou Romain , Johson Jesse E. , Aboagye Erica , Plazas-Niño Fernando A.
Published: October 2024

Access to clean and sustainable energy technologies is critical for all nations, particularly developing countries in Africa. Ghana has committed to ambitious greenhouse gas emission reduction targets, aiming for 10% and 20% variable renewable energy integration by 2030 and 2070, respectively. This study explores potential pathways for Ghana to achieve its renewable energy production targets amidst a growing energy demand. The Open-source energy modelling tool (OSeMOSYS) was used to assess four scenarios accounting for current policies and additional alternatives to pursue energy transition goals. The results indicate that total power generation and installed capacity would increase across all scenarios, with natural gas playing a key role. Total electricity generation is projected to grow between 10 and 20 times due to different electrification levels. Renewable energy production has the potential to reach more than 50% of total electricity generation by 2070. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions reduction is achievable with nuclear energy being critical to support renewables. Alternative pathways based on clean energy production may provide cost savings of around $11-$14 billion compared to a business-as-usual case. The findings underscore the necessity of robust policies and regulatory frameworks to support this transition, providing insights applicable to other developing countries with similar energy profiles.
Medications Compliance Amplified: Igniting High Grit for Type 2 Diabetes Control Success
Authors: binti Abdul Latiff Nur Aishah , bt Mohd Abd Rasid Nur Sa’adah , bin Ahmad Zamzuri Mohd‘Ammar Ihsan"
Published: October 2024

Aim: To determine the prevalence of high grit among diabetes patients in adherence to pharmacological treatment. Subsequently, to determine the association between high grit with health profile and social demographic data of the patients.

Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban district of Seremban for eight months. Patients with known type-2 diabetes were recruited using systematic random sampling. Written informed consent was obtained before questionnaire distribution.

Results: The sample size was 153 diabetic patients. 62.7% of them have a high level of grit and medication adherence (75.8%). It was found that medication adherence, duration of diabetes, absent family history of diabetes, optimal HbA1c, optimal blood pressure control, and absence of albuminuria were significantly associated with high levels of grit. Moreover, there was a positive and moderate correlation between the level of grit and medication adherence. Nevertheless, patients who adhered to the diabetic treatment regime had higher grit levels as compared to the less adherence to the treatment.

Conclusion: A high level of grit is pivotal to ensure medication adherence. Thus, strengthening both health promotional and educational activity is necessary to improve perseverance and passion for medication compliance.

Keywords: diabetes mellitus, therapeutic adherence, primary care
Early Childhood Development Awareness and Practices of Family Physicians According to Healthcare Service Affiliation: Primary versus Secondary and Tertiary
Authors: Ayranci Sucakli Iclal , Yalcin Siddika Songul , Ilgaz Seniz , Gorpelioglu Suleyman
Published: October 2024

Aim: Research emphasize the critical importance of early childhood development and this research aims to assess the knowledge of family physicians and their actual practices regarding early childhood development in primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare services.

Methods: This analytical observational study was conducted using a web-based tool developed by the researchers. The tool included questions on sociodemographic characteristics, practices, knowledge, about early childhood development and evaluated the information transfer to the families byphysicians. The differences in information transfer were tested using the chi-square test and generalized linear models.

Results: Analysis of the survey responses from 272 family physicians, with a median age of 34 years. Notably, 52.2% reported a visit duration of 5–10 minutes, and 65.8% reported having received training for early childhood development, 16.2% used standard developmental assessment tools. A quarter of physicians (25.4%) demonstrated complete awareness of the 11 items describing developmental delay, and 14.3% of physicians provided training to families on the 10 subjects queried in the research.

Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for targeted training programs, efficient utilization of available time during visits, and the incorporation of standardized assessment tools into family medicine practices to promote early childhood development.

Keywords: child development, family practice, primary health care
Reliability Of E-Health Records and The Importance of Patient Self-Reporting in International Health Information Sharing
Authors: Ozkaya Yasemin , Tekgul Bakiye Nurdan
Published: October 2024

Dear Editor

Access to accurate and comprehensive patient information is crucial in family medicine practice. A recent encounter with a patient residing in Germany who required an urgent health report for a driver's license in Türkiye highlighted significant issues related to international health information sharing and the limitations of patient self-reports and existing health information systems.

A 40-year-old male patient visited the family medicine clinic with his spouse, seeking a health report for a driver's license. He claimed good health, no medication use, and regular check-ups. Physical examination revealed no abnormalities, and the patient stated that he had recently undergone tests at a private hospital, which were normal. Due to his residence in Germany, there were no data available in the E-Nabız system.

To proceed, the patient was asked to complete a personal health information form. He requested that his spouse fill out the form outside the clinic. Despite presenting a healthy medical history, conflicting information emerged from the personal health information form filled out by his spouse. Upon confirmation, the patient admitted these conditions but stated they were managed and monitored in Germany. He provided inconsistent responses regarding his epileptic seizures and the patient was informed about the need for referral to a neurologist. The patient contested this referral and questioned why conditions managed in Germany would be an issue in Türkiye. After providing the necessary information, the referral was carried out.

The patient's spouse, returned to inform us that the neurology department could not assess the patient that day and asked if the report could still be issued. The spouse claimed to have revised the personal health information form, deleting all previous information, and requested that the report be reissued based on the updated form. The importance of providing accurate health information and the fact that the report could not be issued in this manner were reiterated to the patient. As they left the room, the spouse made a final remark: “Why should our conditions in Germany concern the doctor here?”

This incident highlights critical issues regarding the security and universality of health information. This letter will examine these issues under five main headings.
Mortality rate of percutaneous coronary interventions in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients under the public health insurance schemes of Thailand
Authors: Chumsantivut Suppavit , Lertmaharit Somrat , Rattananupong Thanapoom , Lertsuwunseri Vorarit , Athisakul Siriporn , Wanlapakorn Chaisiri , Srimahachota Suphot
Published: October 2024

Background

In Thailand, access to specific pharmaceuticals and medical devices for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients is restricted within certain healthcare systems, leading to inequalities in the quality of medical care among different healthcare systems. This study aims to compare mortality rates within one year of STEMI patients among the public health insurance schemes of Thailand.

Methodology

This study is a single-center retrospective analysis of patients with STEMI treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). It involves patients utilizing various state health insurance schemes in Thailand from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2020. Data collection occurred through the hospital's computerized management system and the registration administration office of the Department of Provincial Administration.

Results

The study involved 1,077 patients, categorized into three groups based on their state health insurance: Universal Health Coverage (UC) (546 patients, 50.7%), Social Security System (SS) (199 patients, 18.5%), and Civil Service Reimbursement (CS) (332 patients, 30.8%). The one-year mortality rates in these groups were 10.57%, 4.21%, and 6.47%, respectively (p = 0.010). In the unadjusted model, the SS group showed a lower risk of one-year mortality [Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.38, 95% CI 0.18–0.80, p = 0.011], and the CS group also demonstrated a lower risk (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.35–0.99, p = 0.047) compared to the UC group. In the adjusted model, only the CS group significantly reduced the risk of one-year mortality. Other factors that affected one-year mortality were age ≥65 years, prior coronary artery diseases, Killip class 3–4, pre-discharge prescription of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, occlusion in the left anterior descending artery, multivessel disease, in-hospital atrial fibrillation/flutter and in-hospital pericardial effusion.

Conclusion

Healthcare schemes play a significant role in influencing one-year mortality rates among STEMI patients treated with pPCI. This information would be crucial for developing strategies and programs to aid healthcare policymakers at both regional and international levels in reducing morbidity and mortality.
A novel class of oral, non-immunosuppressive, beta cell-targeting, TXNIP-inhibiting T1D drugs is emerging
Authors: Jing Gu , Jo SeongHo , Shalev Anath
Published: October 2024

Diabetes treatment options have improved dramatically over the last 100 years, however, close to 2 million individuals in the U.S. alone live with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and are still dependent on multiple daily insulin injections and/or continuous insulin infusion with a pump to stay alive and no oral medications are available. After decades of focusing on immunosuppressive/immunomodulatory approaches for T1D, it has now become apparent that at least after disease onset, this by itself may not be sufficient, and in order to be effective, therapies need to also address beta cell health. This Perspective article discusses the emergence of such a beta cell-targeting, novel class of oral T1D drugs targeting thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and some very recent advances in this field that start to address this unmet medical need. It thereby focuses on repurposing of the antihypertensive drug, verapamil found to non-specifically inhibit TXNIP and on TIX100, a new chemical entity specifically developed as an oral anti-diabetic drug to inhibit TXNIP. Both have shown striking anti-diabetic effects in preclinical studies. Verapamil has also proven to be beneficial in adults and children with recent onset T1D, while TIX100 has just been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to proceed to clinical trials. Taken together, we propose that such non-immunosuppressive, adjunctive therapies to insulin, alone or in combination with immune modulatory approaches, are critical in order to achieve effective and durable disease-modifying treatments for T1D.
Structural colouration in Drosophila wings is thermally plastic and exhibits ecological variation
Authors: Garg Divita , Dhotre Kanak , Mayekar Harshad Vijay , Singh Grewal Raghwinder , Rajpurohit Subhash
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Structural colour patterns and their functions in insect wings are less known. Wing interference patterns (WIPs) are colour patterns apparent when wings are viewed against black backgrounds; the angle of incident light and wing surface structures also influence the resulting wing colour pattern. To date, WIPs are correlated with mate attraction, while the impact of geography and environment on WIPs remains unexplored. We explore WIP variation in Drosophila melanogaster populations collected from three altitudes and also compare WIP variation in sibling species D. melanogaster and D. simulans reared at three different temperatures to understand if local selection pressures could also influence WIPs.

Methodology

Wings of D. melanogaster males were collected from three different altitudes, and D. melanogaster and D. simulans males reared at three different temperatures were imaged. Images were analysed for their relative red, green and blue content in the RGB colour space. In representative images, wing thickness was assessed using the Newton colour series.

Results

An altitudinal cline in WIPs was observed in the cosmopolitan D. melanogaster collected from the Western Himalayas. Relative RGB values and increase in altitudes were negatively correlated. Thermal responses in WIPs were parallel for both D. melanogaster and D. simulans. Relative RGB values were negatively correlated with rearing temperature. In both species, wing thickness measurements indicated that the wings of flies reared at low temperatures had greater blueness (cyan and magenta) compared to flies reared at moderate to high temperatures; the latter had more green and yellow content. Wing thickness pattern was also consistent for D. melanogaster flies collected from low versus higher altitudes.

Discussion

We find WIPs to be a plastic trait in response to temperature. WIP response to thermal variation corroborates with the temperature of the geographic origin in D. melanogaster. The adaptive significance of WIP variation and associated wing thickness remains unclear. Future studies could explore the underlying adaptive significance of structural colour patterning under different environmental conditions.
Hemopexin alleviates sterile inflammation in ischemia-reperfusion-induced lung injury
Authors: Nakagiri Tomoyuki , Köhler Nadine R. , Janciauskiene Sabina , Neubert Lavinia , Knöfel Ann-Kathrin , Pradhan Pooja , Ruhparwar Arjang , Ius Fabio , Immenschuh Stephan
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Pulmonary ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury (IRI) plays a significant role in various lung disorders and is a key factor in the development of primary graft dysfunction following lung transplantation. Hemopexin (Hx) is the major serum scavenger protein for heme, which is a prooxidant and pro-inflammatory compound. In the current study, we hypothesized that Hx could confer beneficial effects in sterile inflammation induced by IR-mediated lung injury.

Methods

To examine this hypothesis, we administered Hx in an experimental mouse model of unilateral lung IRI.

Results

Our results demonstrate that treatment with Hx alleviated histopathological signs of inflammation in ischemic lungs, as evidenced by a reduction in the number of infiltrating neutrophils and decreased levels of perivascular edema. In addition, thrombotic vaso-occlusion in pulmonary blood vessels of IRI lungs was reduced by Hx. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that Hx inhibited the up-regulation of heme oxygenase-1, an enzyme highly induced by heme, in ischemic lungs. Finally, Hx administration caused a decrease in the levels of circulating B- and CD8+ T-lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of mice with pulmonary IRI.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the serum heme scavenger protein Hx holds therapeutic promise in alleviating lung IRI-mediated sterile inflammation. Thus, Hx may represent a preemptive therapeutic approach in IR-related lung disorders such as primary graft dysfunction in lung transplantation.
Metabarcoding and morphological analysis of diets of mesopelagic fishes in the NW Atlantic Slope Water
Authors: Bucklin Ann , Batta-Lona Paola G. , Questel Jennifer M. , McMonagle Helena , Wojcicki Melissa , Llopiz Joel K. , Glancy Sarah , Caiger Paul E. , Francolini Rene , Govindarajan Annette , Thorrold Simon R. , Jech Michael , Wiebe Peter H.
Published: October 2024

DNA metabarcoding and morphological taxonomic (microscopic) analysis of the gut contents was used to examine diet diversity of seven species of fishes collected from mesopelagic depths (200-1000 m) in the NW Atlantic Ocean Slope Water during Summer 2018 and 2019. Metabarcoding used two gene regions: V9 hypervariable region of nuclear 18S rRNA and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI). V9 sequences were classified into 14 invertebrate prey groups, excluding fish due to predator swamping. Ecological network analysis was used to evaluate relative strengths of predator-prey linkages. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed consistently distinct diets of four fish species in 2018 and/or 2019: Argyropelecus aculeatus, Chauliodus sloani, Hygophum hygomii, and Sigmops elongatus. Three other species analyzed (Malacosteus niger, Nemichthys scolopaceus, and Scopelogadus beanii) showed more variability between sampling years. COI sequences were classified into eight invertebrate prey groups, within which prey species were detected and identified. Considering all predator species together, a total of 77 prey species were detected with a minimum of 1,000 COI sequences, including 22 copepods, 18 euphausiids, and 7 amphipods. Morphological prey counts were classified into seven taxonomic groups, including a gelatinous group comprised of soft-bodied organisms. The ocean twilight zone or is home to exceptional diversity and biomass of marine fish, which are key players in deep sea food webs. This study used integrative morphological-molecular analysis to provide new insights into trophic relationships and sources of productivity for mesopelagic fishes, including identification of key prey species, recognition of the importance of gelatinous prey, and characterization of differences in diet among fish predators in the NW Atlantic Slope Water.
Early-stage outcomes and cost-effectiveness of implementing tourism-led coral propagation and outplanting in the Whitsundays (Great Barrier Reef)
Authors: Scott Rachael , Suggett David , Hayward Cassidy , Chatterton Brent , Edmondson John , Gaskell Johnny , Gillette Gemma M. , Howlett Lorna , Monacella Emily , Roper Christine D. , Strudwick Paige , Unsworth James , Veltri Michela , Woodcock Stephen , Camp Emma F.
Published: October 2024

Implementation of coral restoration practices within reef management strategies is accelerating globally to support reef resilience and recovery. However, full costs underpinning restoration project feasibility have historically been underreported yet are critical to informing restoration cost-benefit decision-making. Such knowledge is especially lacking for Australia’s Great Barrier Reef (GBR), where a coral restoration program led by reef tourism operators, Coral Nurture Program (CNP), was initiated in 2018 (northern GBR) and continues to scale. Here we describe the early outcomes and costs of implementing similar tourism-led asexual coral propagation and outplanting practices in a new region, the Whitsundays (central GBR) through the CNP. Specifically, we detail the local operational and environmental context of CNP Whitsundays, describe the costs of implementation and continuation of restoration activities, as well as evaluate survivorship of coral outplants across three restoration sites for nine months after project establishment (August 2022 to June 2023). Baseline benthic surveys revealed relatively low hard coral cover at restoration sites (ranging from 3.22-8.67%), which significantly differed in benthic composition from coral collection sites (ranging 16.67-38.06%), supporting strong motivation by tourism operators to undertake restoration activities. Mean coral survivorship of coral outplants in fate-tracked plots differed between the three restoration sites after 267 days (ranging 23.33-47.58%), with declines largely driven by coral detachment. Early-stage cost-effectiveness (costs relative to outplant survival) associated with implementation of restoration activity varied widely from US$33.04-178.55 per surviving coral (n = 4,425 outplants) depending on whether ‘in-kind’ costs, restoration activity (outplanting only vs. total costs encompassing planning through to monitoring), site-based survivorship, or a combination of these factors, were considered. As coral reef restoration projects continue to be established globally, our results highlight the need for ongoing, long-term monitoring that can inform adaptive practice, and fully transparent cost-reporting to understand and improve feasibility for any given project. We further highlight the inherent context-dependency of restoration costs, and the importance of considering local social-environmental contexts and their associated cost-benefits in economic rationale for reef restoration projects.
Cryopreservation of germ cells as a conservation strategy for two valuable species in Mexico: Totoaba macdonaldi and Seriola lalandi
Authors: Mendoza-González Leonardo D. , Suárez-López Lucia , Paniagua-Chávez Carmen G.
Published: October 2024

The cryopreservation of cell lines such as primordial germ cells and germ cells is a promising strategy to conserve and reconstitute endangered or commercially important species in aquaculture. In Mexico, the northwest region is the center of the country’s most significant fishing and aquaculture production. However, most of the species used in capture fishing are overexploited. Despite this, protocols for the cryopreservation of germ cells are non-existent. Therefore, this work aimed to establish a protocol of isolation, identification, and cryopreservation of germ cells in two species, totoaba (Totoaba macdonaldi) and yellowtail amberjack (Seriola lalandi). Three concentrations of trypsin (0.25%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) were tested for gonadal dissociation. The 0.3% trypsin concentration was the best because it presented the most significant number of viable cells, with 14.35 × 105 for totoaba and 2.96 × 105 for yellowtail amberjack. The immunohistochemistry identification of germ cells in both species was positive for vasa, with 33.30% for totoaba and 34.20% for yellowtail amberjack. The cryoprotectant used was ethylene glycol (1.5 M or 2 M). The ideal temperature for the cryopreservation of gonadal tissue was different for each species, −1°C/min for totoaba and −5°C/min for yellowtail amberjack with 58.42% and 63.48% viable cells after thawing, respectively, with ethylene glycol 1.5 M being the best for both species. The non-controlled rate was the most effective technique to freeze the cell suspension, with 4.20 ± 1.09 × 105/mL viable cells for totoaba and 7.31 ± 2.25 × 105/mL for yellowtail amberjack. In conclusion, the results of the isolation, identification, and cryopreservation protocols for germ cells in totoaba and yellowtail amberjack obtained in this work are the first report for fish species from northwest Mexico, opening the door for the generation of cryobanking of germ cells. Finally, this work would help conserve endangered species and be an alternative to conserving species of commercial importance in aquaculture.
Trophic transfer of PFAS potentially threatens vulnerable Saunders's gull (Larus saundersi) via the food chain in the coastal wetlands of the Yellow Sea, China
Authors: Zhang Dini , Liu Wei , Xin Yu , Liu Xiaoshou , Zhang Zhenhua , Liu Yan
Published: October 2024

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been extensively documented as posing significant health risks to human populations. However, there is a lack of research of their impact on endangered species, which significantly affects the effectiveness of conservation efforts and maintenance of these populations. In this study, we examined the levels of PFAS pollution in adults and juveniles of the vulnerable Saunders’s gull (Larus saundersi), along with their various food sources using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and Ecopath model. Long-chain PFAS, predominantly composed of perfluorooctanoic acid (accounting for 51.4% of the total), were identified as the main pollutants in the gull, its food, and the environment. Saunders’s gulls showed significant bioaccumulation and magnification of PFAS, with contamination levels significantly above those recorded in other species. Mean PFAS levels between juveniles (904.26 ng/g wet weight) and adults (407.40 ng/g wet weight) revealed a significant disparity, indicating that PFAS pollution may severely threaten these birds. Among the food sources analyzed, bivalves and polychaetes emerged as the primary contributors to PFAS contamination in Saunders’s gulls, with high transfer efficiency. The fundamental cause of PFAS pollution in benthic organisms and the gulls appears to be baseline environmental pollution, which was highly consistent across all examined pollutant types. Moreover, chemical plants close to breeding areas may cause severe environmental pollution, threatening organisms at various trophic levels through the food web. We suggest enhancing the pollution monitoring of important biological habitats for timely prediction and early warning of chemical risks. Additionally, ecological restoration of key habitats should be strengthened to ensure the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation.
Distribution characteristics of size-fractionated Chlorophyll a in the coastal area of the Leizhou Peninsula in winter
Authors: Xu Huabing , He Mingming , Liao Jianzu , Zhou Weihua
Published: October 2024

The distribution characteristics of size-fractionated Chlorophyll a (Chl-a) and the environmental factors were studied in the coastal area of the Leizhou Peninsula in January 2022. The result showed that Chl-a ranged from 0.39 to 4.78 mg/m3 (averaging 1.21 mg/m3) at the surface and 0.43 to 2.78 mg/m3 (averaging 1.04 mg/m3) at the bottom layer, respectively. The spatial distribution of Chl-a concentration was associated with salinity. High Chl-a concentration was observed in the eastern part of the Leizhou Peninsula characterized by lower salinity, and low Chl-a concentration in Qiongzhou Strait with higher salinity. Nanophytoplankton (2–20 µm) was the dominant contributor, accounting for 61.3% and 63.7% of the total Chl-a at the surface and bottom layer, respectively. Both microphytoplankton (>20 µm) and nanophytoplankton displayed increased Chl-a with the increase in total Chl-a. Salinity, nutrients and temperature appear to influence the phytoplankton size structure in the coastal area of the Leizhou Peninsula. Additionally, the regulation of nutrient varied among phytoplankton of different sizes. This study contributed to our understanding of coastal ecosystem processes and has potential implications for coastal management and monitoring efforts.
Validity of a four-item questionnaire in French assessing attachment to meat
Authors: Sebo Paul , Tudrej Benoit , Bernard Augustin , Delaunay Bruno , Dupuy Alexandra , Malavergne Claire , Maisonneuve Hubert
Published: October 2024

Background

The 16-item Meat Attachment Questionnaire (MAQ-16) assesses emotional and cognitive attachment to meat across four dimensions: hedonism, affinity, entitlement, and dependence. Recently validated in French, we aimed to develop and validate a shorter, four-item version (MAQf-4) to reduce participant burden.

Methods

In this 2023 observational study in the Rhône-Alpes region, 919 primary care patients were invited to complete the French MAQ-16 (MAQf-16). Classical test theory guided the development of the MAQf-4, and Spearman’s correlation coefficients assessed its correlation with the MAQf-16 (dimension and overall scores). We also evaluated the diagnostic performance of the MAQf-4 for identifying patients with high meat attachment (MAQf-16 score > 60).

Results

A total of 822 patients participated (65.3% women; median age = 52; participation rate = 89.5%). The MAQf-4 showed strong correlations with the MAQf-16 (rho = 0.83 for hedonism, 0.77 for affinity, 0.70 for entitlement, 0.79 for dependence, and 0.86 for the overall score, all p-values <0.001). A score < 15 on the MAQf-4 (sensitivity = 91%, NPV = 96%) effectively excluded patients with low meat attachment, while a score ≥ 17 (specificity = 96%, PPV = 84%) accurately identified those with high attachment.

Conclusion

The MAQf-4 demonstrated strong correlation with the MAQf-16 and accurately identified high attachment to meat. It may serve as a useful tool in research and clinical settings, though further validation is required before broad implementation in French primary care.
How does item wording affect participants’ responses in Likert scale? Evidence from IRT analysis
Authors: Zeng Biao , Jeon Minjeong , Wen Hongbo
Published: October 2024

Researchers often combine both positively and negatively worded items when constructing Likert scales. This combination, however, may introduce method effects due to the variances in item wording. Although previous studies have tried to quantify these effects by using factor analysis on scales with different content, the impact of varied item wording on participants’ choices among specific options remains unexplored. To address this gap, we utilized four versions of the Undergraduate Learning Burnout (ULB) scale, each characterized by a unique valence of item wording. After collecting responses from 1,131 college students, we employed unidimensional, multidimensional, and bi-factor Graded Response Models for analysis. The results suggested that the ULB scale supports a unidimensional structure for the learning burnout trait. However, the inclusion of different valences of wording within items introduced additional method factors, explaining a considerable degree of variance. Notably, positively worded items demonstrated greater discriminative power and more effectively counteracted the biased outcomes associated with negatively worded items, especially between the “Strongly Disagree” and “Disagree” options. While there were no substantial differences in the overall learning burnout traits among respondents of different scale versions, slight variations were noted in their distributions. The integration of both positive and negative wordings reduced the reliability of the learning burnout trait measurement. Consequently, it is recommended to use exclusively positively worded items and avoid a mix in item wording during scale construction. If a combination is essential, the bi-factor IRT model might help segregate the method effects resulting from the wording valence.
Delayed predictive inference integration with and revision by low-competitive inference alternatives in Chinese narrative text reading
Authors: Xu Fei , Cheng Lulu , Gong Xianghong , Liu Chenglong
Published: October 2024

When readers encounter information conflicting with the predictive inferences made earlier, they may update the outdated ones with new ones, a process known as predictive inference revision. The current study examined the revision of disconfirmed predictive inferences by the primarily weakly activated, thus low-competitive inference alternatives during Chinese narrative text reading among Chinese native speakers. We conducted an event-related brain potential (ERP) experiment to study the predictive inference revision with increasingly supportive information for the low-competitive predictive inference alternatives. It serves as the very first attempts to study the predictive inference revision mechanisms by combining a larger range of ERP components, including frontal-Post-N400-Positivity (f-PNP) as an index of revision to examine the influences of the alternative inferences at later stages of reading comprehension. Our results showed that readers could detect inconsistent information (P300), disconfirm the incorrect predictive inferences before successfully integrating the low-competitive alternative predictive inferences with their current situation model (N400), engaging themselves in a second-pass reanalysis process incurring processing costs (P600), and revising the disconfirmed predictive inferences (f-PNP) at a later stage of reading comprehension. Results of this study are supportive of relevant theories in assuming that predictive inference revision does not happen immediately upon encountering conflicting information but happens slowly and incrementally. Our results also unfold the post-revision mechanisms by suggesting the remaining activation and lingering influences of the disconfirmed inferences in the forthcoming reading process.