bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lost in translation: The need for updated messaging strategies in invasion biology communication
Authors: Reeb Rachel A. , Heberling J. Mason 
Published: November 2024

Societal Impact StatementAs with any complex environmental challenge, information about the “invasive species problem” must be communicated effectively to generate widespread public trust, understanding, and engagement in solutions. However, there is growing recognition that conventional messaging strategies can be ineffective or even detrimental at activating the broader public. Flawed communication practices can have harmful societal impacts by perpetuating misinformation, propagating feelings of panic and fatalism, and disaffecting audience members within historically marginalized communities. In this article, we draw attention to existing communication barriers in invasion biology and attempt to address the flawed messaging strategies which perpetuate negative societal outcomes.SummaryEffective communication about introduced, invasive species is necessary for the public to engage in productive dialogue and participate in solutions. Best practices in communication are more essential than ever before, as the harmful environmental and societal impacts of invasive species are exacerbated by globalization and anthropogenic disturbance. In this article, we review how public misunderstanding and mistrust present persistent barriers to invasion biology communication. We then describe three flawed messaging strategies that underlie these barriers. These strategies include fear appeals, simplified invasion metaphors, and militaristic and xenophobic language. Though intended to inspire a public sense of urgency and action, these strategies more often stoke sentiments of confusion and mistrust when employed in practice. Efforts to develop new best practices in communication are already underway. However, there is a great need for efficacy testing and wider adoption among science and education professionals alike. We draw from the interdisciplinary literature to recommend specific forms of value appeals, metaphors, and language that are a promising foundation for improvement.
Proteomics and Metabolomics Study on the Responses of Sertoli Cells Infected With Brucella and Its bvfA‐Deletion Strains
Authors: Jia Fang , Yang Jiangliu , Wang Yujiong , Liu Jun , Zhou Xuezhang 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo investigate the potential effects of BvfA in reproductive system damage caused by Brucella.MethodsBrucella intracellular multiplication ability was determined by a gentamicin protection assay; the LDH method was used to determine the lethal effect of Brucella on TM4 cells. Afterward, Label‐free proteomics and LC‐MS/MS metabolomics assays were combined to reveal differential abundant proteins and metabolites of TM4 cells infected with bvfA‐deletion strains and parental strains. Finally, PRM mass spectrometry and western blot analysis were carried out to confirm differential expression of proteins.ResultsThis report demonstrated that bvfA‐deletion strains failed to invade TM4 cells and reconstitution of invasion when a strain with gene bvfA was reintroduced to the deletion strain in 3 h. The bvfA‐deletion exhibited weakened intracellular multiplication compared with parental strains in TM4 cells in 12 h; however, the death rate of TM4 cells infected with bvfA‐deletion strains was higher than that of TM4 cells infected with parental strains. Combined proteomics and metabolomics analyses revealed that the differential abundant proteins and metabolites in TM4 cells infected with bvfA‐deletion and parental strains mainly involved the mineral absorption‐related pathway, NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit‐related mitochondrial respiratory signaling pathway, and sphingolipid signaling pathway of TM4 cells. These three signaling pathways were involved in expression changes of TRPM6/7, STEAP1, Gnaq, Trp53, Pbk, Tns2, Akt2, and the NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase subunit, as well as content changes of l‐Valine, l‐Isoleucine, l‐Methionine, PC, PE DG, and SM metabolites.SignificanceThese results indicated that BvfA of Brucella abortus S19 affected the above proteins and metabolites in TM4 cells.
Bioavailability and phytotoxicity of clomazone to corn depend on soil characteristics and can be estimated by in situ pore water
Authors: Cao Duantao , Peng Wenwen , Xu Hanghang , Fu Xiaoxiang , Gong Xia , Yu Sumei , Wei Hongyi , Zhou Qinghong , Huang Yingjin 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe injury caused by residual herbicides in soils to subsequent crops has been frequently reported and is largely related to soil physicochemical properties. Elucidating the interactions between herbicide toxicity and soil properties could help assess its phytotoxicity based on local soil characteristics. Here, the influence of soil properties on the accumulation and toxicity of clomazone as a model compound to corn was explored to obtain a universal indicator for estimating the toxicity of herbicides against crops.RESULTSThe phytotoxicity of clomazone to corn differed in the five tested soils with the median inhibitory concentration (IC50) values, according to the added concentration, fluctuating between 2.80 and 26.97 mg/kg. The uptake of clomazone by corn was primarily affected by its sorption onto soils and showed a positive correlation with the concentration of clomazone in in situ pore water (CIPW) (R2 ≥ 0.775, P < 0.001). In contrast to results derived from traditional soil clomazone concentrations (Csoil) determined through organic solvent extraction, consistent IC50 values (1.344–1.626 mg/L) were obtained based on CIPW in all five soils with a much lower coefficient of variation.CONCLUSIONSThese findings indicate that measuring the concentration of clomazone in in situ pore water provides a reliable and comparable method for evaluating its bioavailability and phytotoxicity on corn. Using CIPW rather than Csoil as a herbicide indicator is more accurate for assessing its actual phytotoxicity. These results are important for the scientific application of clomazone and the safe production of corn. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Epigenetic Effects of Natural Products in Inflammatory Diseases: Recent Findings
Authors: Yao Qianyi , Wei Tanjun , Qiu Hongmei , Cai Yongqing , Yuan Lie , Liu Xin , Li Xiaoli 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTInflammation is an essential step for the etiology of multiple diseases. Clinically, due to the limitations of current drugs for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as serious side effects and expensive costs, it is urgent to explore novel mechanisms and medicines. Natural products have received extensive attention recently because of their multi‐component and multi‐target characteristics. Epigenetic modifications are crucial pathophysiological targets for developing innovative therapies for pharmacological interventions. Investigations examining how natural products improving inflammation through epigenetic modifications are emerging. This review state that natural products relieve inflammation via regulating the gene transcription levels through chromosome structure regulated by histone acetylation levels and the addition or deletion of methyl groups on DNA duplex. They could also exert anti‐inflammatory effects by modulating the proteins in typical inflammatory signaling pathways by ubiquitin‐related degradation and the effect of glycolysis derived free glycosyls. Studies on epigenetic modifications have the potential to facilitate the development of natural products as therapeutic agents. Future research directed at better understanding of how natural products modulate inflammatory processes through less studied epigenetic modifications including neddylation, SUMOylation, palmitoylation and lactylation, may provide new implications. Meanwhile, higher quality preclinical studies and more powerful clinical evidence are still needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of the natural products. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01764204; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05845931; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04657926; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02330276
Red Yeast Rice or Lovastatin? A Comparative Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy Through a Multifaceted Approach
Authors: Rigillo Giovanna , Baini Giulia , Bruni Renato , Puja Giulia , Miraldi Elisabetta , Pani Luca , Tascedda Fabio , Biagi Marco 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe increasing use of red yeast rice (RYR) as a natural supplement to manage blood cholesterol levels is driven by its active compound, monacolin K (MK), which is chemically identical to the statin drug lovastatin (LOV). Despite its growing popularity, concerns persists regarding the safety and efficacy of RYR compared to pure statins. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, pharmacological effects, and safety profile of various RYR samples in comparison with LOV. RYR samples with different MK content were analyzed using HPLC‐DAD to quantify monacolins and other bioactive compounds. The inhibitory activity on HMG‐CoA reductase was assessed through an enzymatic assay, while pharmacokinetic properties were predicted using in vitro simulated digestion and in silico models. In vitro cytotoxicity was evaluated in intestinal, hepatic, renal, and skeletal muscle cell models. Additionally, the transcriptional levels of muscle damage‐related target genes were evaluated by qRT‐PCR in skeletal muscle cells treated with a selection of RYR samples. Significant variability in the phytochemical composition of RYR samples was observed, particularly in the content of secondary monacolins, triterpenes, and polyphenols. The RYR phytocomplex exhibited superior inhibition of HMG‐CoA reductase activity compared to isolated LOV, suggesting synergistic effects between secondary monacolins and other compounds. Molecular insights revealed that RYR samples had a lower impact on muscle cells than LOV, as reflected also by cell viability. These findings suggest that RYR could serve as a safe alternative to purified statins. However, further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms behind the synergistic activity of the phytocomplex and to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of this natural product.
Sustainable development goals and corporate financial performance: Examining the influence of stakeholder engagement
Authors: Lin Woon Leong , Chong Siong Choy , Wong Kelly Kai Seng 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the relationship between sustainable development goals (SDG) and corporate financial performance (CFP) in the motor vehicle manufacturing sector. Using a comprehensive dataset from CSRHUB database, covering 380 companies from 2016 to 2022, we analyze how SDG‐related disclosures—across depth, breadth, and concentration—impact financial metrics such as return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), return on invested capital (ROIC), and Tobin's Q. The study employs the system generalized method of moments (System GMM) to mitigate endogeneity concerns, ensuring robust results. Our findings reveal that while SDG initiatives positively influence CFP, the role of stakeholder engagement is pivotal. Firms with comprehensive SDG strategies and high stakeholder engagement experience superior financial outcomes. However, an overly narrow focus on specific SDG themes, even with strong stakeholder interactions, correlates with weaker financial performance. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on corporate sustainability by highlighting the moderating effect of stakeholder engagement in SDG disclosures. The findings offer practical implications for both policymakers and business leaders, suggesting a balanced approach to SDG reporting to maximize financial performance.
Silver‐Nanoparticles‐Based Composites for Antimicrobial Applications: An Update
Authors: Manisekaran Ravichandran , Chettiar Aruna‐Devi Rasu , Marasamy Latha , Ibarra Veronica Campos , Lopez‐Ayuso Christian Andrea , Chavez‐Granados Patricia Alejandra , Kandasamy Ganeshlenin , Acosta‐Torres Laura Susana , Arthikala Manoj‐Kumar 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAntimicrobial resistance (AMR), which develops into superbugs, poses a significant challenge to global health leading to 4.95 million deaths in 2019, necessitating the exploration of alternative strategies. AMR is responsible for a significant economic cost estimated by the World Bank, where AMR could result in additional healthcare costs of US$ 1 trillion by 2050. Thus, overcoming these drawbacks is of great importance. Fortunately, the advent of 21st century nanotechnology provides an ample opportunity to develop diverse nanomaterials along with specific functionalization to treat bacteria, fungi, or viruses more effectively with the combination of innovative technologies. Among these, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are considered a great boon in the area of AMR, which has a long history of practice. However, in recent years, Ag‐based composites have been designed by scientists to enhance their antimicrobial effects at minimal concentrations, thereby depending on synergism. Thus, in this review, we provide an update on the recent advances in Ag‐based composites with metals, polymers, and carbon for various antimicrobial applications. In addition, we focused on the mechanisms that assist in tackling microbes and the toxicity of AgNPs. Thus, in this review, we highlight the synergistic effects of AgNP‐based composites in combating several microorganisms.
Addressing Mental Health Symptoms Among COVID‐19 Healthcare Workers: A Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Darlene , Erande Ashwini , Christodoulou Georgia , Malik Shaista 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTPsychological stress among frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic, elevating mental health risks. Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRV‐BF) is an evidence‐based intervention with potential to reduce psychological burden on frontline HCWs; however, no studies have examined its use among this population since the pandemic began. We designed a trial to assess the effects of a brief HRV‐BF intervention delivered via telemedicine on measures of anxiety, depression and stress, and heart rate variability, compared to an in‐person intervention. We hypothesised that the telemedicine intervention would be non‐inferior to the in‐person intervention. Using a randomized comparison trial design, we tested a 10‐day brief heart rate variability biofeedback intervention among frontline HCWs during the COVID‐19 pandemic. They received remote, 30‐min guided sessions every other day and were taught methods of heart rate variability biofeedback. Depression, anxiety and stress were assessed at baseline, 10 days, and 40 days with additional measures of anxiety measured before and after each session. HRV scores were collected at baseline, as well as during the course of the 10 days. Multilevel modelling was used to examine the change in depression, anxiety, stress and HRV scores across multiple time points and session types (telemedicine vs. in‐person). There was no significant differences between telemedicine (n = 32) and in‐person (n = 15) interventions on the main outcomes. Both session types showed a significant decrease in depression, anxiety and stress scores across the entire intervention, and HRV scores significantly increased across both groups. Anxiety levels also significantly decreased after each session. The non‐inferiority of the telemedicine intervention to a comparable in‐person intervention affirms its promise for decreasing anxiety, depression and stress among frontline HCWs and may offer a cost‐effective and feasible tool to use in crises situations.
Ultrasmall Black Phosphorus Quantum Dots with Robust Antioxidative Properties for Acute Kidney and Liver Injury Therapy
Authors: Zhang Jingyang , Han Shuyan , Zhao Zixuan , Zhou Chufan , Chen Haolin , Hou Jingtao , Wu Jun 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAcute organ injuries, such as acute kidney injury (AKI) and acute liver injury (ALI), usually present high morbidity and mortality in patients. However, the current clinical treatments remain limited, especially the lack of effective drug‐based treatment. Since these acute injuries are often associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, it is a promising strategy to develop therapeutic agents with potent ROS scavenging ability and excellent biocompatibility for efficient antioxidation therapy. Black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs), low‐dimensional nanomaterials prepared through a straightforward one‐step method and capable of complete controllable biodegradation, offer significant potential. This study comprehensively explores the extensive free‐radical scavenging capabilities of BPQDs, underscoring their immense potential in treating ROS‐related organ injuries. BPQDs could simultaneously achieve radical scavenging of DPPH, ABTS·, OH·, and O2−· and exhibit excellent cytoprotective effects against ROS‐mediated damage even at extremely low dosages. Besides, the ultrasmall size of BPQDs (≈3‐5 nm) allows them to effectively penetrate the glomerular filtration barrier (≈6 nm), significantly improving the symptoms of AKI and ALI in vivo. The therapeutic efficacy and great biocompatibility of BPQDs facilitate the clinical management of ROS‐related diseases, which will broaden the applications of QDs in the field of biomedicine.
Modular Micromotor Fabrication with Self‐Focusing Lithography
Authors: Guo Qingxin , Zeng Binglin , Cao Yingnan , Li Xiaofeng , Chen Jingyuan , Wang Wei , Tang Jinyao 
Published: November 2024

AbstractSynthetic Janus micro/nanomotors can efficiently convert ambient energy into asymmetrical self‐propulsive force, overcoming random thermal fluctuations and enabling autonomous migration. Further modifications to the motors can equip them with different functional modules to meet different needs. However, developing a versatile and high‐yield fabrication method for multifunctional Janus micromotors remains challenging. In this study, a modular fabrication approach for micromotors with a particle‐tip structure based on the self‐focusing lithography induced by an array of TiO2 microspheres is presented. By adjusting the tip composition or loading, precise programming of motor functionality is achieved, allowing for various capabilities such as photoredox reaction‐induced propulsion, fluorescent imaging, electric and magnetic navigation. Furthermore, the flexibility of this fabrication method by selectively loading materials onto two tips is demonstrated to achieve multifunctionality within a micromotor unit. This study proposes a straightforward and versatile approach for modular functional micromotors.
Search‐Based MC/DC Test Data Generation With OCL Constraints
Authors: Sartaj Hassan , Zohaib Iqbal Muhammad , Ahmed Jilani Atif Aftab , Uzair Khan Muhammad 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTSystem‐level testing of avionics software systems requires compliance with different international safety standards such as DO‐178C. An important consideration of the avionics industry is automated test data generation according to the criteria suggested by safety standards. One of the recommended criteria by DO‐178C is the modified condition/decision coverage (MC/DC) criterion. Current model‐based test data generation approaches use constraints written in Object Constraint Language (OCL) and apply search techniques to generate test data. These approaches either do not support MC/DC criterion or suffer from performance issues while generating test data for large‐scale avionics systems. In this paper, we propose an effective way to automate MC/DC test data generation during model‐based testing. We develop a strategy that utilizes case‐based reasoning (CBR) and range reduction heuristics designed to solve MC/DC‐tailored OCL constraints. We performed an empirical study to compare our proposed strategy for MC/DC test data generation using CBR, range reduction, both CBR and range reduction, with an original search algorithm, and random search. We also empirically compared our strategy with existing constraint‐solving approaches. The results show that both CBR and range reduction for MC/DC test data generation outperform the baseline approach. Moreover, the combination of both CBR and range reduction for MC/DC test data generation is an effective approach compared to existing constraint solvers.
Complexes of Alkaline Earth Metal Ions with the Cyclodimethylsiloxane Ligands D7, D8 and D9 (D=Me2SiO)
Authors: Richter Roman‐Malte , Heinrichs Jasmin , Weiß Pauline , Subrati Zainab , von Hänisch Carsten 
Published: November 2024

AbstractWe present complexes of alkaline earth metal ions with the large cyclodimethylsiloxane D7, D8 and D9. The compounds prepared are [Mg(D7)(H2O)2][GaI4]2 (1⋅2H2O), [Ca(D8)][GaI4]2 (2), [Sr(D8)][GaI4]2 (3), [Ba(D8)][GaI4]2 (4), [Ca(D9)][GaI4]2 (5), [Sr(D9)][GaI4]2 (6) and [Ba(D9)][GaI4]2 (7). Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy were used to analyze the prepared compounds and coordination modes in the solid state and in solution.
Use of Online Shop Chatbots: How Trust in Seller Moderates Brand Preference and Purchase Intention
Authors: Illescas-Manzano María , Martínez-Puertas Sergio , Cardoso Paulo Ribeiro , Segovia-López Cristina 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study examines the role that chatbots, an application of AI in e-commerce customer service, play in increasing online trust in brands and how, from this trust, interaction with chatbots can impact brand preference and purchase intention A conceptual model based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Information System Success Model (IS) is proposed to understand the relationships between the utility, ease-of-use, and responsiveness of a chatbot, online trust, brand preference, and purchase intention. Based on a sample of Spanish consumers, this study provides a better understanding of how to build trust online and how this can strengthen the relationship with the consumer and lead to a purchase. At the same time, it alerts professionals to the need to design chatbots that are useful and respond efficiently and quickly in their customer service. The results of our study aim to help brands in designing chatbots to provide e-services that consolidate customer relationships and foster sales.
Analyzing the Relationship Between Healthcare Quality and Patient Satisfaction in the Case of Spain: Some Panel Data Evidence
Authors: Perals Paula Ortega , Rambaud Salvador Cruz , García Javier Sánchez 
Published: November 2024

AbstractOne of the major concerns of every national government is to achieve the effectiveness of the healthcare system and understanding the efficiency of a system in terms of patient satisfaction. Currently, quality of care is the main driver of patient satisfaction, and their relationship has been widely studied in recent years mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The main objective of this work is to demonstrate the relationship between quality and satisfaction in the case of Spain and to determine which quality indicators in healthcare affect patient satisfaction. The data analyzed correspond to the 17 regions of Spain from 2007 to 2019. The methodology used is based on dynamic panel data with a two-step generalized method of moments applied in the regression models. The results show that hospital mortality is the only quality variable affecting patient satisfaction in a negative way. The main contribution of the work is to empirically test the relationship between these two variables in the case of Spain by taking into account the differences between regions. For further research, other quality measures and satisfaction indices should be implemented in order to complete the recent work.