bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing AI literacy and attitudes among medical students: implications for integration into healthcare practice
Authors: Subaveerapandiyan A. , Mvula Dalitso , Ahmad Naved , Taj Amreen , Ahmed Mohammed Gulzar
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess AI literacy and attitudes among medical students and explore their implications for integrating AI into healthcare practice.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research design was employed to comprehensively evaluate AI literacy and attitudes among 374 Lusaka Apex Medical University medical students. Data were collected from April 3, 2024, to April 30, 2024, using a closed-ended questionnaire. The questionnaire covered various aspects of AI literacy, perceived benefits of AI in healthcare, strategies for staying informed about AI, relevant AI applications for future practice, concerns related to AI algorithm training and AI-based chatbots in healthcare.

Findings

The study revealed varying levels of AI literacy among medical students with a basic understanding of AI principles. Perceptions regarding AI’s role in healthcare varied, with recognition of key benefits such as improved diagnosis accuracy and enhanced treatment planning. Students relied predominantly on online resources to stay informed about AI. Concerns included bias reinforcement, data privacy and over-reliance on technology.

Originality/value

This study contributes original insights into medical students' AI literacy and attitudes, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions and ethical considerations in AI integration within medical education and practice.
Slow tourism experience: impact on emotions, engagement and well-being
Authors: Lee Solbi , Busser James A. , Kim Minji , Shulga Lenna V.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

As the overflow of information accelerates the pace of life, people search for opportunities to escape from their fast-paced lifestyle by engaging in slower consumption. This research empirically tested the role of slow tourism experience (STE) in improving one’s well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

In Study 1, 205 qualified tourists participated. Exploratory factor analysis using principal component analysis with Promax rotation in SPSS v.26 was deployed to examine scale factors. Study 2 consisted of 460 tourists to test the conceptual model using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Multi-group analysis identified statistically significant differences between path coefficients in the structural models for males and females.

Findings

Results revealed a three-dimensional STE measure: deceleration, immersion and self-reflection. STE significantly impacted positive emotions and mediated tourist engagement and subjective well-being. Gender multi-group analysis indicated STE had a positive direct impact on SWB for male tourists; however, STE positively affected SWB through tourist destination engagement for female tourists.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to tourists who had stayed at a destination. Future research may consider the different modes or mindsets that tourists use in designing their itinerary, length of stay, type of transportation, level of investment in the environment and culture.

Practical implications

Practitioners can distinguish tourism activities based on gender, focusing on engaging female tourists and triggering emotions for male tourists.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to operationalize and examine STE, extending the broad-and-build theory’s relevance in slow tourism research by revealing the effects of STE on tourists’ SWB.
Perceptions and challenges of blockchain adoption in tourism industry: a study on trust, privacy and security
Authors: Rodríguez Bolívar Manuel Pedro , Sepe Fabiana , Nanu Luana , Roberto Fabiana
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the perceptions of service providers in the travel and hospitality industry toward the adoption of blockchain technology (BCT), focusing on its impact on consumer experiences and expectations, especially in terms of trustworthiness and the management of privacy and security concerns.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used a quantitative methodology, collecting data from 135 industry practitioners across five tourism sectors (lodging, connected industries, entertainment, FandB, transportation) in Europe. This approach aimed to understand the diverse perspectives on the benefits and challenges of implementing BCT in their opera

Findings

The results indicate mixed perceptions regarding blockchain adoption. While there are positive views on BCT’s potential to enhance customer experience and service quality, there are significant concerns about its impact on trust and security. A consensus exists between customer and provider perspectives on BCT’s trustworthiness, but significant differences were observed in views on privacy and security enhancement.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the service providers’ and customers’ perspectives on BCT within the travel and hospitality industry. It underscores the complexities of adopting new technologies and calls for more in-depth studies to address the identified concerns, thereby offering a novel viewpoint on the adoption of distributed ledger technologies in enhancing customer experience and service delivery.
Are you really satisfied in life? Developing a scale on life satisfaction
Authors: Dhir Swati , Singh Shiwangi , Singh Lata Bajpai
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study attempted to measure life satisfaction and developed a scale to measure its dimensions with the required psychometric properties (validity and reliability). In today’s scenario, organizations are focusing on life satisfaction by helping employees to maintain their work-life balance. Therefore, this paper aims to develop a robust scale of life satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology consists of three broad stages: item generation, scale development, and validity. Using the sample of 198 working executives, this study used the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and concluded the four dimensions of life satisfaction: work satisfaction, family satisfaction, societal satisfaction and self-satisfaction.

Findings

The results provide academicians and practitioners with new insight and dimensions of life satisfaction. The result of this study shows that life satisfaction has societal satisfaction, family satisfaction, job satisfaction and self-satisfaction dimensions.

Practical implications

This study will provide practitioners with new dimensions to measure life satisfaction. They can help employees achieve life satisfaction across four different factors. This will enable more employee satisfaction, an increase in retention rate and an increase in employee performance. Furthermore, this study provides implications from a policy perspective to design the business policy by considering life satisfaction as an important part of formulating and implementing human resource policies.

Originality/value

This study is unique in terms of exploring the dimensions of life satisfaction in a structured manner and establishing the psychometric properties as construct, content, and criterion validity along with reliability. This scale can be further used in future research to measure the life satisfaction construct.
Spiritual tourism development: a comprehensive synthesis for sustainable destination planning and growth
Authors: Mishra Divya , Maheshwari Nidhi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the dimensions of spiritual tourism development, examine its current status, effectiveness and scope and analyze the knowledge landscape in terms of theories, contexts and research methodologies. The study also seeks to guide future research on spiritual tourism development.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analysis were used using a framework-based approach. The theories, constructs, characteristics and methods (TCCM) framework guided the SLR, whereas VOS-Viewer facilitated comprehensive bibliometric analysis.

Findings

The study conducted a quantitative SLR, analyzing 80 research articles published between 2003 and 2023. Using the TCCM framework, the research identified crucial factors influencing the growth of spiritual tourist destinations, such as intrinsic motivation, destination physicality, tourist experience, spiritual activities and host community support.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to theoretical advancement in spiritual tourism, provides insights into the current research landscape, offers practical guidance for stakeholders and serves as a roadmap for future research endeavors.

Originality/value

This research enhances knowledge by thoroughly assessing prior research, addressing gaps and offering practical managerial insights for spiritual tourism development. The managerial implications outlined in the study offer practical insights for destination planning and promotion in the context of spiritual tourism.
Research on the mechanism of digital innovation ecosystem embeddedness on the digital innovation performance of complementary enterprises: evidence from China
Authors: Liu Jingtao , Ning Lianju , Gao Qifang
Published: October 2024

Purpose

In the era of the digital economy, the digital innovation ecosystem is an important vehicle to alleviate enterprises' resource and capability constraints and thus improve their digital innovation performance. Embedding digital innovation ecosystems for survival and development opportunities has become a new strategic choice for enterprises. However, how digital innovation ecosystem embeddedness affects the digital innovation performance of complementary enterprises has not yet been fully revealed. This study examines whether digital innovation ecosystem embeddedness affects the digital innovation performance of complementary enterprises through ambidextrous capabilities (exploration and exploitation) and the moderating role of strategic flexibility.

Design/methodology/approach

A field survey was conducted in China, collecting survey data from 578 complementary enterprises in advanced manufacturing industries embedded in digital innovation ecosystems. This study applies multiple regression analysis to verify the relevant hypotheses.

Findings

The results confirmed that (1) digital innovation ecosystem embeddedness has a significant positive effect on complementary enterprises' digital innovation performance; (2) Ambidextrous capabilities play a partial mediating role in the relationship between digital innovation ecosystem embeddedness and complementary enterprises' digital innovation performance. (3) Strategic flexibility positively moderates the effect of digital innovation ecosystem embeddedness on ambidextrous capabilities and digital innovation performance.

Practical implications

The findings, intended to guide enterprises that complement the digital innovation ecosystem to achieve digital innovation and performance improvement, highlight the importance of eco-embedded strategies, ambidextrous capabilities and strategic flexibility.

Originality/value

The finding enriches antecedent research on digital innovation performance and provides practical insights for firms to embed themselves in digital innovation ecosystems to improve performance.
How does perceived security influence mobile wallet users' behavior? A SEM investigation
Authors: Chand Khem , Tiwari Rajesh , Gupta Anjali , Taneja Sanjay , Özen Ercan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The digital disruptions have provided alternative methods of monetary transactions. Despite the digital wave, cash as a payment option has regained its position. The purpose of this research is to investigate behavioral intentions of mobile wallet (m-wallet) users. The paper explores the dynamics of perception, behavioral intention motivation and satisfaction of m-wallet users.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used a self-administered questionnaire for data collection. A total of 506 responses were analysed using confirmatory factor analysis in conjunction with Structural Equation Modeling, ensuring the validity and reliability of the insights into the behavioral dynamics of m-wallet users.

Findings

The research highlights the direct impact of perceived security on m-wallet users' perceptions, which subsequently influence both direct and indirect behavioral intentions. Moreover, satisfaction emerged as a significant determinant directly shaping behavioral intentions.

Originality/value

This study contributes significantly to the existing literature by offering a comprehensive understanding of the factors driving m-wallet adoption and usage intentions, thereby equipping stakeholders and policymakers with the necessary tools to devise effective strategies to promote mobile payment technologies in North India. The study employs a multifaceted model that incorporates six key elements, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex interrelationships among these variables.
3D Controlled‐source electromagnetic modelling in anisotropic media using secondary potentials and a cascadic multigrid solver
Authors: Pan Kejia , Wang Jinxuan , Han Xu , Ren Zhengyong , Ling Weiwei , Guo Rongwen
Published: October 2024

Quantitative interpretation of the data from controlled‐source electromagnetic methods, whether via forward modelling or inversion, requires solving a considerable number of forward problems, and multigrid methods are often employed to accelerate the solving process. In this study, a new extrapolation cascadic multigrid method is employed to solve the large sparse complex linear system arising from the finite element approximation of Maxwell's equations using secondary potentials. The equations using secondary potentials are discretized by the classic nodal finite element method on nonuniform rectilinear grids. The resulting linear systems are solved by the extrapolation cascadic multigrid method with a new prolongation operator and preconditioned Stabilized bi‐conjugate gradient method smoother. High‐order interpolation and global extrapolation formulas are utilized to construct the multigrid prolongation operator. The extrapolation cascadic multigrid method with the new prolongation operator is easier to implement and more flexible in application than the original one. Finally, several synthetic examples including layered models, models with anisotropic anomalous bodies or layers, are used to validate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method. Numerical results show that the extrapolation cascadic multigrid method improves the efficiency of 3D controlled‐source electromagnetic forward modelling a lot, compared with traditional iterative solvers and some state‐of‐the‐art methods or software (e.g., preconditioned flexible generalized minimal residual method, emg3d) in the considered models and grid settings. The efficiency benefit is more evident as the number of unknowns increases, and the proposed method is more efficient at low frequencies. The extrapolation cascadic multigrid method can also be used to solve systems of equations arising from related applications, such as induction logging, airborne electromagnetic, etc.
Exploring riverine aquatic animal diversity and establishing aquatic ecological monitoring approaches tailored to the Qinling region via eDNA technology
Authors: WANG Biao , WANG Yuqi , HE Ni , DU Mingxing , YOU Ping
Published: October 2024

This study thoroughly examines biodiversity and aquatic ecosystems across 14 sampled sites within the Shitou River basin by utilizing environmental DNA technology. Through integrated analysis and high‐throughput sequencing, the study elucidates a diverse array of biodiversity, encompassing 27 fish species and 341 freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates (FBM) species. Using various biodiversity indices, we found significant differences in diversity and stability across different environments. Regions with more complex habitats had higher species richness and evenness. Further analyses showed complex relationships between diversity metrics for FBM and fish, indicating potential interactions between these groups. The standardized mean score (SMS) was developed to aid in the assessment of water quality. Specifically, SMS scoring revealed that sites STH3, STH4, and STH14 excelled across multiple dimensions, earning an “Excellent” rating, while site STH12 was rated as “Poor” due to subpar performance across several metrics. This project not only enhances current understanding regarding aquatic ecological dynamics but also establishes a strong foundation for detailed environmental evaluation and monitoring, aligned with the priorities of contemporary ecological management and caution.
Sympatric diversity pattern driven by the secondary contact of two deeply divergent lineages of the soybean pod borer Leguminivora glycinivorella
Authors: YANG Mingsheng , WANG Ying , DAI Peng , FENG Dandan , HUGHES Alice C. , LI Houhun , ZHANG Aibing
Published: October 2024

The soybean pod borer, Leguminivora glycinivorella (Matsumura), is an important tortricid pest species widely distributed in most parts of China and its adjacent regions. Here, we analyzed the genetic diversity and population differentiation of L. glycinivorella using diverse genetic information including the standard cox1 barcode sequences, mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes), and single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from genotyping‐by‐sequencing. Based on a comprehensive sampling (including adults or larvae of L. glycinivorella newly collected at 22 of the total 30 localities examined) that covers most of the known distribution range of this pest, analyses of 543 cox1 barcode sequences and 60 mitogenomes revealed that the traditionally recognized and widely distributed L. glycinivorella contains two sympatric and widely distributed genetic lineages (A and B) that were estimated to have diverged ∼1.14 million years ago during the middle Pleistocene. Moreover, low but statistically significant correlations were recognized between genetic differentiation and geographic or environmental distances, indicating the existence of local adaptation to some extent. Based on SNPs, phylogenetic inference, principal component analysis, fixation index, and admixture analysis all confirm the two divergent sympatric lineages. Compared with the stable demographic history of Lineage B, the expansion of Lineage A had possibly made the secondary contact of the two lineages probable, and this process may be driven by the climate fluctuation during the late Pleistocene as revealed by ecological niche modeling.
The House of Commons notebook of Pryse Campbell MP, March–April 1756
Authors: Davies John E.
Published: October 2024

This article reproduces the contents of a small notebook detailing, in a highly abbreviated form, the house of commons debate of 29 March 1756 regarding the use of Hanoverian and Hessian troops to defend Britain from invasion by the French, necessitated by the abysmal state of the home defences. In a separate, very short, section, the notebook details amendments to be made to the Militia Bill, which was enacted in 1757, to reform the militia in England and Wales.
Acoustics, Audibility and Political Culture in the House of Commons, 1800–34
Authors: Foteinou Aglaia , Cooper J.P.D. , Murphy Damian
Published: October 2024

How easy was it to hear, and be heard, in the historic house of commons? Located in the former St Stephen's Chapel in the Palace of Westminster, the pre‐1834 Commons had not been designed as a place of debate, though its refurbishment by Christopher Wren may have taken acoustics into account. This article focuses on the chamber as re‐ordered by James Wyatt in 1800–1 to accommodate 100 members from Ireland following the Acts of Union. Employing acoustic simulation software and an interdisciplinary methodology, we explore the soundscape of the Commons as experienced both on the floor of the house and in the ventilator space where women gathered to listen to the debates below. Modelling for different scenarios, including speeches delivered from the front and back benches and the Speaker's chair, we present comparative data for their audibility in a fully‐ or half‐occupied house. Evidence for contemporary understanding of the acoustics of the chamber, for instance around the ‘elasticity of the atmospheric air’, is also reviewed in light of modern science. Results are interpreted for their impact on the political culture of the pre‐1834 house of commons including choice of seating, oratorical strategies, and the experience of reporters in the gallery.
Influences of superfine‐grinding and mix enzymolysis alone or combined with hydroxypropylation or acetylation on the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties of coconut endosperm residue fiber
Authors: Feng Chen , He Chenlong , Li Yan , Zheng Yajun , Yang Bao , Zhuang Yongliang
Published: October 2024

Coconut endosperm residue is an abundant and low‐cost resource of dietary fiber, but the low soluble fiber content limits its functional properties and applications in the food industry. To improve the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties, coconut endosperm residue fiber (CERF) was modified by superfine‐grinding and mix enzymatic hydrolysis alone, or combined with acetylation or hydroxypropylation. The effects of these modifications on the structure and functional properties were studied using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy, and in vitro tests. After these modifications, the microstructure of CERF became more porous, and its soluble fiber content, surface area, water adsorption, and expansion capacities were all improved (p < 0.05). Moreover, superfine‐grinding and mix enzymolysis combined with acetylation treated CERF showed the highest surface hydrophobicity (48.96) and cholesterol and cholate adsorption abilities (33.72 and 42.04 mg∙g‒1). Superfine‐grinding‐, mix enzymolysis‐, and hydroxypropylation‐treated CERF exhibited the highest viscosity (17.84 cP), glucose adsorption capacity (29.61 µmol∙g‒1), and glucose diffusion inhibition activity (73.96%), and water‐expansion ability (8.60 mL∙g‒1). Additionally, superfine‐grinding and mix enzymatic hydrolyzed CERF had the highest α‐amylase inhibiting activity (42.76%). Therefore, superfine‐grinding and mix enzymolysis alone or combined with hydroxypropylation were better choices to improve hypoglycemic properties of CERF; meanwhile, superfine‐grinding and mix enzymolysis combined with acetylation can effectively improve its hypolipidemic properties.

Practical Application

This study offered three composite modification methods to improve the soluble fiber content and in vitro hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties of coconut endosperm residue fiber. These modification methods were practicable and low‐cost. Moreover, it provides good choices to improve the functional properties and applications of other dietary fibers in the food industry.
Estimation of the soluble solid content of citrus based on the fractional‐order derivative and optimal band combination algorithm
Authors: Dou Shiqing , Deng Yuanxiang , Zhang Wenjie , Yan Jichi , Mei Zhengmin , Li Minglan
Published: October 2024

The soluble solid content (SSC) is a primary characteristic index for evaluating the internal quality of citrus fruits. The development of rapid and nondestructive SSC detection techniques can help address the current issues of postharvest quality grading in China's citrus industry. In this study, a total of 261 experimental samples, including 70 Murcott, 91 Clementine, and 100 Navel orange, were divided into prediction and validation sets in a 7:3 ratio. After obtaining the reflection spectra and SSCs, SNV‐FOD (Standard Normal Variate—Fractional‐Order Derivative) was used to process the spectra, and the optimal band combination algorithm was introduced to select SSC‐sensitive bands. Then, the obtained optimal dual‐band combination was input into eight regression models for comparison, and the best performing models stacked ensemble models was selected. Finally, the H‐ELR (HyperOpt‐optimized ensemble learning regression) model, optimized using a Bayesian function, was applied for the effective estimation of SSC for three common citrus varieties in Guangxi, Murcott, Clementine, and Navel oranges. The results show that (1) the SNV‐FOD preprocessing method proposed in this study improved the correlation coefficient with the SSC from 0.546 to 0.836 compared to that of the original spectrum, (2) the optimal dual‐band combination (969 and 1069 nm) constructed by integrating the differential index and 1.2‐order derivative yielded the most accurate results (RPD = 2.13), and (3) the H‐ELR model, based on HyperOpt optimization, achieved good estimated performance (RPD = 2.46).

Practical Application

This research contributes to the development of practical SSC prediction instruments with excellent universality and ease of application.
Serum antibodies against mimotopes of Merkel cell polyomavirus oncoproteins detected by a novel immunoassay in healthy individuals and Merkel cell carcinoma patients
Authors: Mazziotta Chiara , Badiale Giada , Cervellera Christian Felice , Tonnini Giulia , Oimo Milena , Touzé Antoine , Arnold Françoise , Zanussi Stefania , Schioppa Ornella , Fanetti Giuseppe , Tognon Mauro , Martini Fernanda , Rotondo John Charles
Published: October 2024

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the foremost causative factor of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare yet highly aggressive skin cancer. Although the evaluation of circulating IgG antibodies against Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) LT/sT oncoproteins is clinically useful for MCC diagnosis/prognosis, a limited number of assays for identifying such antibodies have been developed. Herein, a novel indirect immunoassay with synthetic epitopes/mimotopes of MCPyV oncoproteins was computationally designed and experimentally validated on control sera and sera from healthy individuals and MCC patients. Upon computational design of five synthetic peptides, the performance of the immunoassay in detecting anti‐oncoprotein IgGs in MCPyV‐positive and ‐negative control sera was evaluated. The immunoassay was afterwards extended on sera from healthy individuals, and, for longitudinal analysis, MCC patients. Performance properties such as sensitivity and specificity and positive/negative predictive values were adequate. Receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curves indicated that the areas under the curves (AUCs) were within the low/moderately accurate ranges. Immunoassay was repeatable, reproducible and accurate. As expected, the serum anti‐oncoprotein IgG prevalence in healthy individuals was low (2%–5%). Anti‐oncoprotein IgGs slightly increased when MCC patients experienced partial tumour remission and/or stable disease, compared to baseline. Our data indicate that the newly developed immunoassay is reliable for detecting circulating anti‐oncoprotein IgGs both in healthy individuals and MCC patients.
Early resilience and epigenetic ageing: Results from the prospective Young Finns Study with a 31‐year follow‐up
Authors: Saarinen Aino , Marttila Saara , Mishra Pashupati P. , Lyytikäinen Leo‐Pekka , Hamal Mishra Binisha , Raitoharju Emma , Mononen Nina , Kähönen Mika , Raitakari Olli , Lehtimäki Terho , Keltikangas‐Järvinen Liisa
Published: October 2024

Evidence is accumulating on the connection of early adversities and harsh family environment with epigenetic ageing. We investigated whether early psychosocial resilience is associated with epigenetic ageing in adulthood. We used the population‐based Young Finns data (n = 1593). Early psychosocial resilience was assessed in 1980–1989 across five broad domains: (1) index of psychological strength (self‐esteem at home/in general/at school, perceived possibilities to influence at home, internal life control), (2) index of social satisfaction (perceived support from family/friends and life satisfaction), (3) index of leisure time activities (hobbies and physical fitness), (4) index of responsible health behaviors (infrequent smoking or alcohol consumption), and (5) index of school career (school grades and adaptation). Epigenetic ages were calculated for blood samples from 2011, and the analyses were performed with variables describing age deviation (AgeDevHannum, AgeDevHorvath, AgeDevPheno, AgeDevGrim) and DunedinPACE. Covariates included early family environment, polygenic risk scores for schizophrenia and major depression, adulthood education, and adulthood health behaviors. All of the early resilience indexes were associated with lower levels of epigenetic ageing in adulthood, most consistently with AgeDevGrim and DunedinPACE. The associations of psychological strength and social satisfaction, in particular, seemed to be non‐linear. In a smaller subsample (n = 289), high early resilience was related to lower AgeDevGrim over a 25‐year follow‐up in those who had high “baseline” levels of AgeDevGrim. In conclusion, early resilience seems to associate with lower level of epigenetic ageing in adulthood. Our results tentatively suggest that early resilience may increase “equality in epigenetic ageing” in a general population.
The challenge of designing meaningful performance measures for evaluating the success of conservation translocations
Authors: Cowen S.J. , Richards J.D. , Sims C. , Burbidge A.H. , Friend J.A. , Ottewell K. , Gibson L.A.
Published: October 2024

Conservation translocation is a valuable management tool for conserving and restoring biodiversity. Conservation managers and researchers strive for translocation success and spend considerable time and energy planning for a positive outcome. However, many translocations fail. Defining what makes a translocation ‘successful’ can be challenging. Criteria for success must be relevant to the objectives of the translocation, should be measurable and have realistic timeframes for achievement. How we evaluate these criteria is highly dependent on our ability to monitor a species effectively, which may be complicated by its behaviour, the release methods used, or the release environment, including sympatric species. Well‐planned, but ultimately ineffective, monitoring strategies may render some criteria difficult or impossible to evaluate. Finally, poorly defined success criteria may result in apparently successful translocations failing to achieve their stated goals, or translocations that meet their success criteria but ultimately fail. Here, we discuss the challenges faced when defining and evaluating the success of a fauna reconstruction program on Dirk Hartog Island in Western Australia. Our achievement of success criteria within prescribed timeframes has been mixed, highlighting ways to better define and measure success. We discuss how we have adapted to new knowledge as the translocations progressed and propose frameworks for defining performance measures and guiding decision‐making in response to failures in achieving success criteria.
Designing fit‐for‐purpose monitoring – A case study of a cryptic songbird
Authors: Stojanovic D. , Young C.M. , Stuart A. , Vine S. , Owens G. , Bussolini L. , Hawkins B. , Alves F.
Published: October 2024

Monitoring threatened species is essential for understanding their conservation needs and developing effective recovery strategies. However, designing and implementing monitoring programs can be challenging in resource‐constrained environments, where conservation practitioners must balance the need for detailed information with limited resources. We present a case study focusing on the design of a range‐wide monitoring program for the Endangered rufous scrub‐bird (Atrichornis rufescens) in the mountain forests of eastern Australia. We first developed a ‘wish list’ of monitoring questions and then trialed the methods needed for answering them using sequence of pilot studies. We implemented a phased approach comprising (i) a study of whether individuals could be identified by their songs, (ii) identification of a ‘core range’ using species distribution models to refine the search area, and (iii) a trial of the efficacy of a preferred feasible monitoring approach. We offer a practical pathway for designing question‐driven monitoring programs for threatened species. Our study highlights the importance of clarifying explicit monitoring goals and tailoring methods to suit species' ecological and life history characteristics. By following this systematic approach, conservation efforts can obtain valuable information for effective management, even with limited resources and prevailing uncertainty about species ecology.
Protein Modifications During Early Embryo Development
Authors: Zhang Le , Zhang Yanbing , Sun Hailong
Published: October 2024

Background

Infertility is a global reproductive health burden. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have been widely used to help patients become pregnant. Few embryos develop to the blastocyst stage with ARTs, leading to relatively low live birth rates. Protein modifications play crucial roles in nearly every aspect of cell biology, including reproductive processes. The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics of protein modifications during embryonic development.

Methods

Proteomic data from humans and mice were acquired from the integrated proteome resources (iProX) of ProteomeXchange (PXD024267) and a tandem mass tag (TMT)‐mass spectrometry dataset. Gene ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were applied for functional annotation. Protein–protein interactions (PPIs) of the modification‐related genes were revealed by the STRING database. Modified proteins during mouse embryogenesis were visualized through heatmaps of hierarchically clustering using k‐means.

Results

We identified modification‐related proteins in human embryo development and characterized them through heatmaps, GO analysis, KEGG analysis, and PPI network analysis. We found that the 4‐cell stage to the 8‐cell stage might be the demarcation period for modification‐related protein expression patterns during embryo development. Using quantitative mass spectrometry, we elucidated the methylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination events that occur during mouse embryogenesis to validate our findings in human embryonic development to some extent.

Conclusions

The results of our study suggest that the posttranslational modifications (PTMs) of human preimplantation embryos might exhibit the same trends as those in mice to exert synergistic and fine‐tuned regulatory effects during embryonic development.
Reassess Hospital Costs and Mortality Between Myocardial Infarction With and Without ST‐Segment Elevation in a Modern Context
Authors: Ma Honglan , Wu Sen , Cao Jinlong , Cai Tianzhi
Published: October 2024

Background

Patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) may have higher hospitalization costs and poorer prognosis than non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Methods

A single‐center retrospective study was conducted on 758 STEMI patients and 386 NSTEMI patients from January 1, 2020 to May 30, 2023 aimed to investigate the differences in cost and mortality.

Results

STEMI patients had higher maximal troponin I (15,222.5 (27.18, 40,000.00) vs. 2731.5 (10.73, 27,857.25), p < 0.001) and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (56% (53%, 59%) vs. 57% (55%, 59%), p < 0.001) compared to NSTEMI patients. The clinical symptoms were mainly persistent or interrupted chest pain/distress in either STEMI or NSTEMI patients. STEMI patients had a significantly higher risk of combined hypotension than NSTEMI patients (8.97% vs. 3.89%, p = 0.002), and IABP was much more frequently used in the STEMI group with a statistical difference (2.90% vs. 0.52%, p = 0.015). STEMI patients have statistically higher hospitalization costs (RMB, ¥) (31,667 (25,337.79, 39,790) vs. 30,506.91 (21,405.96, 40,233.75), p = 0.006) and longer hospitalization days (10 (8, 11) vs. 9 (8, 11), p = 0.001) compared to NSTEMI patients. Although in‐hospital mortality was higher in STEMI patients, the difference was not statistically significant (3.56% vs. 2.07%, p = 0.167). Multivariable logistic regression was performed and found that systolic blood pressure and NT‐proBNP were risk factors for patient death (OR ≥ 1).

Conclusion

STEMI patients are more likely comorbid cardiogenic shock, heart failure complications with higher hospitalization costs and longer hospitalization days. And relatively more use of acute mechanical circulatory support devices such as IABP.

Trial Registration

ChiCTR2300077885
Pelvic floor‐related sexual functioning in the first 24 months postpartum: Findings of a large cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hagenbeck Carsten , Kössendrup Jan , Soff Johannes , Thangarajah Fabinshy , Scholten Nadine
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The pelvic floor is exposed to differing stresses and trauma depending on the mode of birth. At the same time, the pelvic floor plays a crucial role in female sexual functioning (FSF). Whereby FSF encompasses different dimensions, from subjective satisfaction to physiological aspects, such as lack of pain and orgasm ability. The aim of the study presented here is to assess FSF in relationship to postpartum pelvic floor disorder based on the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire, IUGA‐Revised (PISQ‐IR), in a large convenience sample and to identify whether there is an association between mode of birth as well as perineal injuries and FSF of women up to 24 months postpartum.

Material and Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional online survey and recruited via social media women up to 24 months after birth of their last child. FSF was surveyed using the PISQ‐IR. Details were also collected on all previous births and birth‐related perineal trauma, as well as current breastfeeding, obesity, and socio‐demographics. Multivariate models were then calculated to determine a possible association between FSF and birth mode.

Results

The data basis is the responses of 2106 survey participants within the first 24 months postpartum. Even 12–24 months postpartum, 21% of respondents are not sexually active, which burdens almost 44% of these women. With regard to mode of delivery, differences in FSF are only evident in individual dimensions of the PISQ‐IR. The dimensions “Condition Impact” and “Condition Specific” were significantly associated with more impairments in sexually active respondents up to 12 months postpartum whose last mode of delivery was forceps or vacuum extraction. If a perineal tear had occurred during last birth, this was significantly associated with a lower PISQ‐IR subscore in the “Condition Impact,” “Condition‐Specific,” “Global Quality,” “Partner‐Related,” and “Arousal” models. The low variance explanation shows that further relevant factors on female sexuality may exist.

Conclusions

The issue of impairments in FSF following childbirth, persisting for an extended period of time, is a significant postpartum concern. Due to the very different dimensions of FSF, the influence of the mode of delivery must be considered in a differentiated way.
The temporal trajectories of habit decay in daily life: An intensive longitudinal study on four health‐risk behaviors
Authors: Edgren Robert , Baretta Dario , Inauen Jennifer
Published: October 2024

Habits are cue‐behavior associations learned through repetition that are assumed to be relatively stable. Thereby, unhealthy habits can pose a health risk due to facilitating relapse. In the absence of research on habit decay in daily life, we aimed to investigate how habit decreases over time when trying to degrade a habit and whether this differs by four health‐risk behaviors (sedentary behavior, unhealthy snacking, alcohol consumption, and smoking). This 91‐day intensive longitudinal study included four parallel non‐randomized groups (one per behavior; N = 194). Habit strength was measured daily with the Self‐Report Behavioral Automaticity Index (11,805 observations) and modelled over time with constant, linear, quadratic, cubic, asymptotic, and logistic models. Person‐specific modelling revealed asymptotic and logistic models as the most common best‐fitting models (54% of the sample). The time for habit decay to stabilize ranged from 1 to 65 days. Multilevel modelling indicated substantial between‐person heterogeneity and suggested initial habit strength but not the decay process to vary by behavioral group. Findings suggest that habit decay when trying to degrade a habit typically follows a decelerating negative trend but that it is a highly idiosyncratic process. Recommendations include emphasizing the role of person‐specific modelling and data visualization in habit research.
Neither Employment nor Self‐Employment: Avenues Towards Functional Platform‐Mediated Work Systems
Authors: Maric Sara , Schuessler Elke S. , Thäter Laura
Published: October 2024

Digital labour platforms are contested because they create work relationships that neither fall into the category of traditional employment nor fulfil the criteria of freelance work due to platforms’ heavy interference in the work process. Although existing research has elucidated different pathways for improving the working conditions of platform workers, we develop an employment relations perspective on platform‐mediated work systems building on David Marsden's theory of employment systems. On the basis of an assessment of the psychological, economic and legal contracts underlying platform‐mediated work, we discuss the limited functionality of these contracts in their ability to control opportunism among platforms, workers and clients. Our analysis contributes to existing debates by providing a theoretically informed framework for analysing the design of platform‐mediated work systems and their consequences for the participating parties. Our insights add nuance to the platform regulation debate by going beyond the question of worker classification towards understanding the organizational and institutional elements of the work system that need to be redesigned and supported by appropriate institutional safeguards. An employment systems perspective also allows for reflection on the economic, societal, sectoral and strategic conditions that could drive such changes.
The differences in essential facial areas for impressions between humans and deep learning models: An eye‐tracking and explainable AI approach
Authors: Sano Takanori , Shi Jun , Kawabata Hideaki
Published: October 2024

This study explored the facial impressions of attractiveness, dominance and sexual dimorphism using experimental and computational methods. In Study 1, we generated face images with manipulated morphological features using geometric morphometrics. In Study 2, we conducted eye tracking and impression evaluation experiments using these images to examine how facial features influence impression evaluations and explored differences based on the sex of the face images and participants. In Study 3, we employed deep learning methods, specifically using gradient‐weighted class activation mapping (Grad‐CAM), an explainable artificial intelligence (AI) technique, to extract important features for each impression using the face images and impression evaluation results from Studies 1 and 2. The findings revealed that eye‐tracking and deep learning use different features as cues. In the eye‐tracking experiments, attention was focused on features such as the eyes, nose and mouth, whereas the deep learning analysis highlighted broader features, including eyebrows and superciliary arches. The computational approach using explainable AI suggests that the determinants of facial impressions can be extracted independently of visual attention.
Clinical determination of the natural distensibility of the human ureter: initial study
Authors: Ali Sohrab N. , McCormac Amanda , Cumpanas Andrei D. , Altamirano‐Villarroel Jaime , Piedras Paul , Vu Minh‐Chau , Afyouni Andrew S. , Tano Zachary E. , Osann Kathryn , Klopfer Michael , Jiang Pengbo , Patel Roshan M. , Landman Jaime , Clayman Ralph V.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To define the natural distensibility of the human ureter and evaluate the impact of other possibly favourable factors on ureteric distensibility.

Patients and Methods

A total of 101 patients undergoing ureteroscopic stone removal or percutaneous nephrolithotomy underwent ureteric sizing using sequential passage of 37‐cm urethral dilators in 2‐F increments while attached to a unique force sensor. Insertion forces were limited to 6 N. After 6 N was attained, an appropriately sized ureteric access sheath was passed. At the conclusion of each procedure, Post‐Ureteroscopic Lesion Scale score was determined.

Results

Urethral dilators were passed in 61% of patients at ≤14 F; 39% of patients accepted urethral dilators of ≥16 F. The mean dilator size was 14 F. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that preprocedural ureteric stenting and antibiotic use favoured passage of 16‐F dilators (odds ratio [OR] 5.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.70–15.62 [P = 0.004] and OR 5.15, 95% CI 1.743–15.243 [P = 0.003], respectively). Neither tamsulosin nor prior urinary tract infection had an impact on ureteric size (OR 0.765, 95% CI 0.281–2.084 [P = 0.601], OR 1.049, 95% CI 0.269–4.089 [P = 0.945], respectively).

Conclusion

Using continuous insertion force monitoring and a 6‐N threshold, the majority of unstented adult human ureters within our patient population safely accommodated a 14‐F dilator. Safe passage of a 16‐F dilator at the 6‐N threshold was more likely among patients with a preexisting indwelling ureteric stent or patients who were treated with antibiotics within a week of the procedure.
Public sector innovation teams: Experience from field‐level bureaucracies
Authors: Alom Morshed
Published: October 2024

How public sector innovation teams take on innovation assignments has attracted insufficient attention from researchers. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the experiences of innovation teams in field‐level bureaucracies in a non‐Western context. In‐depth interviews with 62 public bureaucrats involved in 31 district and subdistrict innovation teams in Bangladesh reveal that the team members lack innovation orientation and team‐building activities, both constraining their innovation performance. It contributes to the innovation literature by explicating that several hostile organizational practices constrain team members' innovation orientation and team‐building activities, which preclude them from being proper innovation teams, affecting their innovation performance.
Children's friendship stability in the United States, China, and Indonesia: Associations with individual attributes and dyadic similarity
Authors: Wei Luhao , Marceau Kristine , Chen Xinyin , Gest Scott , Liu Junsheng , Li Dan , French Doran C.
Published: October 2024

Predictors of friendship stability from individual attributes and dyadic similarities were assessed using cross‐classified multilevel analyses in this 6‐ to 8‐month longitudinal study of 10‐year‐old US (White, Black, Asian, other; n = 477, 50% girls), Chinese (n = 467, 59% girls), and Indonesian (Sudanese, Javanese, other; n = 419, 45% girls) children with complete participation and reciprocated baseline friendships. Across countries, individual attributes of social preference, popularity, and academic achievement and dyadic social preference similarity positively predicted friendship stability. Dyadic similarity of popularity, academic achievement, and aggression respectively predicted friendship stabilities of US, Chinese, and Indonesian children. Both individual attributes and dyadic similarity predicted friendship stability, with results that varied across countries consistent with attributes' reputational salience.