Inform Management Strategies Research Articles

Combined application of metagenomics and FEAST to trace sources of microbial eukaryotic contamination in the Pasig-Marikina-San Juan (PAMARISAN) river system in Metro Manila, Philippines.

Microbial eukaryotes are vital to global microbial diversity, but there is limited information about their composition and sources in contaminated surface waters. This study examined the pathogens and potential sources of microbial eukaryotic communities in polluted sink environments using the 18S rDNA amplicon sequencing combined with the fast expectation-maximization for microbial source tracking (FEAST) program. Six sampling sites were selected along the Pasig-Marikina-San Juan (PAMARISAN) River System, representing different locations within the waterway and classified as sinks (n = 12), whereas animal fecal samples collected from various farms were classified as sources (n = 29). Taxonomic composition revealed Stramenopila, Alveolata, Rhizaria (SAR), Archaeplastida, and Excavata in the rivers, accounting for 85.1%, 13.2%, and 0.36% mean abundance of microbial sink communities, respectively. Clinically relevant human pathogens were also observed in sink environments. The correlation test demonstrated that dissolved oxygen, total suspended solids, pH, temperature, fecal coliform count, and phosphates were important environmental factors driving community variations. Moreover, FEAST results indicated that sewage (19.6%) was the primary source of microbial eukaryotes, followed by duck (0.644%) and cow (0.566%) feces. Spatio-seasonal variations showed higher contributions at downstream stations and during the wet season, highlighting the role of rainfall in enhancing microbial dispersal. Results from community-based microbial source tracking can be used to explore factors shaping microbial eukaryotes in freshwater environments, assess potential pathogen-related hazards, and inform river conservation and management strategies. Furthermore, this also serves as preliminary data for microbial eukaryotic source tracking in the Philippines, laying groundwork for future research.

What Are the Implications of Choosing a TAVR-First Strategy in the Lifetime Management of Aortic Stenosis?: A Critical Review of TAVR-Explant- and Redo-TAVR.

Some patients with aortic stenosis may require multiple valve interventions in their lifetime, and choosing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) as the initial intervention may be appealing to many. If their transcatheter heart valve degenerates later in life, most will hope to undergo redo-TAVR. However, if redo-TAVR is not feasible, some may have to undergo surgical explantation of their transcatheter heart valve (TAVR-explant). With rising numbers of TAVR in younger patients, we address the practical implications of choosing a TAVR-first strategy. In this review we explore potential factors contributing to higher-than-expected mortality after TAVR-explant, synthesize available outcomes data for TAVR-explant for structurally degenerated valves, and describe strategies to standardize and optimize surgical techniques for TAVR-explant. We also discuss clinical outcomes of redo-TAVR within the context of limitations in currently published series and highlight the potential benefit of virtual planning to assess the feasibility of future redo-TAVR before implanting the first valve. Finally, we highlight areas for future investigation to inform management strategies in patients who may require multiple aortic valve interventions.

Development of the concept-process model and metacognition via FAR analogy-based learning approach in the topic of metabolism among second-year undergraduates

Abstract Metacognition is a critical cognitive skill in learning science. Numerous studies indicate that learners with high metacognitive abilities tend to excel in scientific skills, such as their capacity to construct scientific models. This study aims to compare students’ ability to construct concept-process models before and after participating in analogy-based learning using the Focus-Action-Reflection (FAR) method on the topic of metabolism. Additionally, the study investigates the relationship between students’ ability to construct conceptual process models and their metacognitive skills. The sample consisted of 137 second-year students enrolled in a basic biochemistry course, selected through cluster sampling. The research instruments included a process model construction assessment and the Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (MAI). The data were analyzed using paired sample t-tests and correlation analysis. The results showed significant improvement in students’ ability to construct conceptual process models, with an average learning gain of 16.5 %. Statistical analysis indicated a significant increase in test scores after the instructional activities. Furthermore, Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed a positive relationship between learning progress and metacognitive skills, particularly in the use of information management strategies (IMS) and debugging strategies (DS). These findings emphasize the importance of integrating metacognitive skill development into science education, particularly in fostering students’ ability to construct conceptual process models – an essential tool for enhancing science learning outcomes.

Association of Right Bundle Branch Block with Ischemic Stroke Incidence: A UK Biobank Cohort Study.

Right bundle branch block (RBBB) is often considered benign; however, its association with ischemic stroke (IS) remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the relationship between RBBB and the incidence of IS. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the UK Biobank database (2004-2021), which included 3,634 participants with new-onset RBBB and 3,643 matched controls. The primary outcome was the incidence of IS, while the secondary outcomes included atrial fibrillation (AF) and all-cause mortality. We applied a propensity score matching with variables such as age, sex, presence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and the Charlson Comorbidity Index. Subsequently, time-dependent Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the association between RBBB and the outcomes. The cumulative incidence of IS was higher in the RBBB group. RBBB was independently associated with an increased risk of IS (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 3.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.12-6.03; p < 0.001), as well as AF (aHR, 4.58; 95% CI, 3.86-5.43; p < 0.001) and all-cause mortality (aHR, 2.66; 95% CI, 2.35-3.02; p < 0.001). RBBB was associated with an increased risk of IS, independent of age, sex, and other comorbidities. These findings emphasize the need for careful monitoring and management of patients with RBBB to mitigate the risk of IS and other adverse outcomes. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and better inform clinical management strategies for patients with RBBB.

Mechanical Properties and Optimization Strategies of Tree Fork Structures.

Trees are complex and dynamic living structures, where structural stability is essential for survival and for public safety in urban environments. Tree forks, as structural junctions, are key to tree integrity but are prone to failure under stress. The specific mechanical contributions of their internal conical structures remain largely unexplored. This study explores how conical structures optimize stress distribution, filling key gaps in the understanding of tree fork mechanics and supporting safety assessments. This study focused on the following factors: (1) external shape, (2) internal conical reinforcement, (3) interface of the conical connection, and (4) material changes within the conical structure. By analyzing physical samples to extract structural and morphological features, simulating these features in controlled variable models, and performing finite element analysis, we explored mechanical behavior, stress distribution, and performance characteristics, revealing the factors and mechanisms that strengthen tree forks. Insights from this study may facilitate safety assessments and inform pruning strategies for urban tree management.

ESG strategy in the supply chain considering ownership structures

Firms with higher ESG ratings typically exhibit greater efficiency in resource utilization, thereby promoting sustainable development. The ownership structure of a supply chain influences corporate behavior, affecting both overall performance and ESG information management practices. This paper employs a Stackelberg model to explore ESG information management strategies within supply chains characterized by different ownership structures, specifically comparing vertical and horizontal configurations. Our findings indicate that when retailers possess a dominant market position alongside a shareholding manufacturer, the incentive to enhance ESG information levels significantly increases as the shareholding ratio rises. Moreover, the held manufacturer shifts from a focus on price-based competition to quality-based competition. We establish a benchmark model, and our analysis demonstrates that, relative to the benchmark scenario, manufacturers in both ownership structures exhibit a stronger motivation to improve ESG information levels. Accordingly, manufacturers are advised to develop ESG information management strategies that are tailored to their specific ownership structure, shareholding ratio, and the investment cost coefficient associated with ESG information enhancements.

Natural history of sesame allergy in pediatric patients: Insight from a retrospective analysis.

Sesame allergy (SA) is a growing concern because of its association with severe reactions and the limited knowledge of long-term outcomes. This retrospective study aimed to identify the risk factors influencing persistent SA (PSA) in children to improve management and select suitable candidates for oral immunotherapy (OIT). We analyzed the electronic medical records of 84 children with confirmed SA, as defined by consistent clinical reactions and immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated sensitization. Patients were followed for a median (IQR) of 56.5 (46.0-82.5) months. Most participants were male (72.6%) with concurrent food allergies (71.4%). They experienced a median (IQR) of 3.0 (2.0-3.7) allergic episodes, with 46.4% experiencing at least one anaphylactic reaction. PSA was observed in 82.1% (69/84) of the patients. A larger skin prick test (SPT) wheal size at the first reaction (adjusted OR = 1.79, CI:1.05-3.04; p = .03) and allergic reaction grade≥2 (adjusted OR = 19.93, CI:1.37-289.13; p = .02) were independent risk factors for persistence. A 3-fold increase in the likelihood of persistence was observed in patients with SPT results greater than 6.7 mm at first reaction compared with those with results less than 6.7 mm during follow-up (HR = 3.08; CI:1.17-8.12; p = .02). Patients with sustained or increased SPT wheal size (93% remained allergic) and specific IgE (95% remained allergic) at the final visit were more likely to have PSA, whereas those with decreased levels (37% and 39% developed natural tolerance, respectively) were less likely to have resolved SA. This study identified novel risk factors for PSA, including SPT wheal size at the first reaction, reaction severity, and sustained sensitization markers. These findings can inform management strategies and the selection of OIT candidates. Further long-term studies are crucial to elucidate the natural history of SA across populations and to evaluate early interventions, such as OIT.

Predictive Modeling of Juvenile Smalltooth Sawfish Habitats: Challenges and Opportunities for Conservation.

Effective conservation of rare species necessitates the identification of critical habitats and their specific features that influence species occurrence. This study focused on smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata), a critically endangered elasmobranch, to explore how predictive spatial modeling can enhance conservation efforts. By leveraging long-term occurrence and relative abundance data from scientific gillnet surveys, along with insitu environmental data, we used boosted regression trees (BRT) to pinpoint key habitat features essential for juvenile sawfish. Our analysis revealed strong correlations between sawfish presence and environmental variables, with a preferential selection of very shallow, warm, and saline waters fringed with mangroves, particularly those with high pneumatophore density. High relative abundances were observed in warmer months, and predictions of presence were consistent around discrete mangrove-lined areas in Everglades National Park throughout all seasons. This study emphasizes the importance of high-quality environmental data in predictive modeling and informs management strategies aimed at protecting the critical habitats necessary for the recovery of this species. Preventing the loss of mangroves in vulnerable regions of the smalltooth sawfish's range-especially near anthropogenic influences such as the Charlotte Harbor Estuary-is crucial for recovery. We also highlight the need for improved data access to facilitate global abundance predictions, thereby enhancing spatial management and conservation efforts for rare species.

Review of financials, sales, and marketing strategy for micro, small, and medium enterprises in Palangka Raya City

This academic investigation is meticulously designed with the primary objective of categorizing and analyzing the performance metrics of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) situated within the urban confines of Palangka Raya City, with a particular emphasis on financial dimensions, product sales figures, and the efficacy of marketing strategies employed by these enterprises. Through the utilization of this systematic methodology, it becomes feasible to discern and identify groups of MSMEs that exhibit homogeneity in their operational characteristics, thereby facilitating the development of more precise and tailored strategies aimed at fostering their growth and development. To gather relevant primary data that would underpin this analysis, a comprehensive survey was administered to a total of 100 respondents, utilizing a well-structured questionnaire designed to elicit detailed information regarding their business operations. The analytical process employed in this study incorporated descriptive statistical tests, which were instrumental in not only processing the collected data but also in effectively visualizing the results, thus enhancing the interpretability of the findings. The outcomes derived from the clustering analysis revealed significant patterns that can be leveraged to inform management strategies for MSMEs, particularly in relation to enhancing operational efficiency and augmenting the effectiveness of their marketing endeavors. It is the aspiration of this scholarly work that the insights garnered herein will serve as a valuable resource for government entities and various stakeholders, enabling them to make informed decisions that are grounded in empirical data and that contribute positively to the economic growth of the local community. Furthermore, by providing a clearer understanding of the operational landscape of MSMEs, this study aims to encourage the implementation of supportive policies that are conducive to sustainable development within the region. Ultimately, the research endeavors to bridge the gap between academic inquiry and practical application, thereby fostering a collaborative environment in which both theory and practice can thrive in the pursuit of economic advancement. In conclusion, the findings of this study hold the potential to significantly influence the strategic direction of MSMEs in Palangka Raya City, ultimately contributing to a more robust local economy.

Evaluation and improvement of nursing undergraduates’ informatics competencies using a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making model

BackgroundNursing staff need to be constantly exposed to information systems at work and encounter patients who share medical data obtained from the internet; this was widely observed during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Hence, nursing staff should have the necessary skills and education that can help them develop nursing students’ informatics competencies. However, research on assessing and improving nursing students’ informatics competencies remains scarce.ObjectiveThis study aimed to provide nursing educators with a refined evaluation model and targeted improvement strategies tailored to enhance undergraduate students’ informatics competencies.DesignA cross-sectional study.MethodsThis study constructed a hybrid multiple-criteria decision-making model. The analytical hierarchical process was applied to obtain criteria weights; thereafter, the Visekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje with Aspiration-level (VIKOR-AS) method was used to assess undergraduate nursing students’ informatics competencies of in the case hospital.ParticipantsData were obtained from 22 clinically experienced nurses with experience in supervising undergraduate nursing students at a secondary public hospital in Zhejiang Province, China.ResultsAccording to the weighted results, “Skill (C2)” is an important dimension with the highest weight ranking. The corresponding highest-ranking criteria for each dimension are “Knowing how to explain the information management strategies to ensure patient safety (C12),” “Applying information technology tools to support patient safety management (wristband scanning to identify patients, patients’ electronic orders, etc.) (C21),” and “Paying attention to the importance of information technology in clinical decision-making and preventing errors or facilitating patient care coordination (C32).” In the case of the undergraduate nursing students’ performance assessment, Student E was the best overall performer from the perspective of overall utility value. The remaining students ranked as follows: Student C ≻ Student D ≻ Student F ≻ Student A ≻ Student B.ConclusionsThis study model remedies the shortcomings of previous studies on evaluating undergraduate students’ informatics competency dimensions, provides a reference for nursing colleges to develop nursing informatics-related curriculum content, and helps train nursing instructors to assess and train specific students. The results indicate that information skills are an important factor in the development of nursing students’ informatics competencies; hence, nursing educators should prioritize the development of nursing students’ informatics competencies, followed by information knowledge and attitudes.

Assessing the Status and Management of European Eel, Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus 1758) Fisheries in Türkiye: Trends, Challenges, and Conservation Strategies (2019–2023)

The European eel, Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus 1758) is a species of critical ecological importance, facing significant population declines due to anthropogenic pressures such as habitat degradation, migration barriers, pollution, overfishing, and climate change. This study investigates the status of European eel fisheries in Türkiye from 2019 to 2023, focusing on the implications of local management practices and environmental changes on eel populations. Utilizing official catch data from the Turkish Statistical Institute, the study analyses trends across three Eel Management Areas (EMAs) in Türkiye. The results reveal a significant decline in eel catches in EMA-1, suggesting urgent conservation needs, while EMA-2 and EMA-3 exhibit relative stability, potentially reflecting effective local management practices and habitat suitability. The results underscore the necessity for region-specific management strategies that consider ecological, environmental, and socio-economic factors. This research contributes to the development of informed management strategies aimed at ensuring the sustainability of European eel fisheries in Türkiye, aligning with international conservation efforts.

An Investigation on Microplastics at Wastewater Confluence Points in the Southern Coastal Regions of Tamil Nadu, India.

This study investigates microplastic prevalence in wastewater mixing point from major coastal cities in Tamil Nadu, India, highlighting a significant environmental challenge. In January 2023, 16 wastewater samples revealed microplastics (< 5mm) ranging from 20 to 51 items per litre. Predominant colours were pink, black, brown, white, green, blue, red, and yellow, with orange being the least common. Microplastic sizes mostly varied from 0.05 to 0.5mm. Fiber shaped MPs are the predominant, followed by fragments, foam, film and pellets. Predominant polymer types were polyethylene (45%), polystyrene (18%), and polypropylene (15%). These results emphasize wastewater's significant role in introducing microplastics into coastal ecosystems from domestic and industrial sources. Addressing this issue requires effective management plans, including advanced wastewater treatment, public awareness campaigns and regulatory measures. Further research is essential to comprehensively assess ecological impacts and inform sustainable management strategies.

Understanding observable historical pest dynamics through a data rescue approach

Long-term historical data on the presence of invasive pests can inform current pest management. By examining correlations between shifts in pest occurrences and various potential drivers, we can better inform decision-making and management strategies. However, the availability of such long-term data is often limited. We apply a data rescue protocol to recover difficult-to-access pest information from periodical annual forestry reports on the island of Ireland from 1970 to 2020, resulting in an open-access dataset of pest dynamics and their management for the island. We combined the pest dataset with auxiliary weather data to estimate the effects of surveying effort, control measures and weather upon observed pest outbreak dynamics. A first-order auto-logistic regression model was used to model rates of transition between observed presences and absences of non-native insects, fungi, chromista, and bacteria. The results provide evidence that multi-year systematic surveillance efforts have improved the detection of pest species before they have arrived and help towards preventing false absences of invaded species being recorded. We provide reporting recommendations for invasive species which would improve the usability of reported data to better understand observed pest dynamics going forward. Our methodology for data collection and analysis serves as a blueprint for other regions of the world and other invasive species assemblages where data is physically available but not ready for analysis.

An evaluation of novaluron on Southern green stink bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) nymphs and sublethal effects on fecundity in adults.

Stink bug species emerged as major insect pests of cotton in the mid-southern United States following the eradication of the boll weevil and the introduction of genetically modified Bt cotton for lepidopteran pests. Considering the limited number of chemical classes available for insect control, further insights into other chemistries are necessary to inform management strategies with the overall goal of establishing and maintaining the most cost efficient and efficacious control programs for stink bugs in Alabama. The insect growth regulator, novaluron, has shown control of tarnished plant bugs, but little research has been done on its effect in stink bugs. The objective of our study is to evaluate the effects of novaluron, in a laboratory setting, on adult fecundity, nymphal mortality, and yield and damage in the field. We hypothesized that novaluron would have a direct effect on mortality in nymphs and could decrease fecundity in adult stink bugs. Although the effect on fecundity was counter to our hypothesis, this study shows effective control of nymphs in our model insect, the southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). Future evaluation of proper timing of novaluron applications could make this a valuable tool for residual control of stink bugs in cotton.

Disparities in Perimyotis subflavus Body Mass Between Cave and Culvert Hibernacula in Georgia, USA.

The tricolored bat (Perimyotis subflavus), once common in the eastern United States, has experienced significant mortality due to white-nose syndrome (WNS), a fungal disease that primarily affects bats hibernating in caves and mines. In coastal regions of the southeastern United States, where caves and mines are scarce, tricolored bats often use roadway culverts as hibernacula. However, WNS infection dynamics in culverts are poorly understood. Previous research indicated that bats with higher body mass at the onset of hibernation have a higher probability of surviving repeated arousal events from WNS. Therefore, we compared tricolored bat winter body mass between cave and culvert hibernacula and identified culvert characteristics influencing body mass during hibernation in Georgia, USA. From 2018 to 2022, we measured body mass of 754 individuals in early and late hibernation across 32 culverts (n = 497) and four caves (n = 257). Our study revealed a southward spread of the fungus over multiple years, with the first confirmed case of WNS in a Georgia culvert in 2022. Overall, tricolored bats in caves weighed more in early hibernation than those in culverts, but bats in culverts weighed more in late hibernation. Across all sites, female tricolored bats entering and leaving hibernation had greater mass than males but lost more mass during hibernation, possibly due to differences in torpor-arousal patterns and WNS infection rates. Additionally, all bats lost more mass in longer culverts. Understanding culvert characteristics affecting bat body mass will inform management strategies to mitigate WNS effects. Identifying risk factors for specific tricolored bat hibernacula can guide managers on where to focus winter WNS monitoring efforts and potential treatments.

Incorporating structured metacognitive training into an undergraduate anatomy classroom.

Metacognition includes the processes that learners use to plan, monitor, and assess their learning and is tied to academic performance and growth-oriented attitudes toward learning. Learning anatomy presents challenges to learners at all levels, and for many, necessitates a change in learning strategies and metacognitive awareness. We sought to examine whether structured metacognitive training situated in an undergraduate anatomy course could improve these skills. At the beginning and end of the course, students completed the Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (MAI) and several short free response questions. Individually matched pre-and post-course MAI scores were compared using paired-sample t-tests. The authors conducted a directed content analysis for the free response questions using the "knowledge of cognition" (KC) and "regulation of cognition" (RC) domains and their associated subcategories. All three KC subcategories showed statistically significant increases from pre- to post-course questionnaires. Effect sizes were small to moderate. Only two of five RC subcategories showed significant differences between pre- and post-course questionnaires: Information Management strategies and Evaluation. Directed content analysis revealed that students displayed an increase in metacognitive knowledge, particularly in the KC domain. Although RC developed for some learners, others also had insightful comments about challenges in this area-particularly regarding planning, motivation, and focus while learning independently. These results show that metacognitive training in an undergraduate anatomy course can improve students' metacognitive awareness. However, more targeted, specific strategies may be useful to develop students' metacognitive regulation.

Trial protocol for SiroSkin: a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial of topical sirolimus in chemoprevention of facial squamous cell carcinomas in solid organ transplant recipients

BackgroundKeratinocyte carcinomas such as basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas are a major burden affecting morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs). Best treatment includes frequent skin checks for early detection and surgery for high incidence of skin cancers.Sirolimus is an immunosuppressive drug which may reduce the burden of skin cancer but may be poorly tolerated when given orally. Topical sirolimus has been proven effective at reducing the burden of skin cancers in animal models, and its safety has long been established in children with tuberous sclerosis. A recent 12-week phase II trial of topical sirolimus suggested it was safe and effective at reducing the early signs of skin cancer in the absence of major side effects. The aim of the SiroSkin trial is to determine whether topical sirolimus can fill a major gap in current therapies by reducing the onset and number of new skin cancers thus reducing burden of disease and cost-effectiveness.MethodsProtocol for a multi-centred phase III, participant- and clinician assessor-blinded, placebo-controlled randomised trial in SOTRs. A minimum 146 participants randomised 1:1 will be treated with 1% topical sirolimus versus placebo applied to the face on a regular basis for 24 weeks. Participation is 24 months in total—24 weeks of treatment and 18 months of follow-up. Outcomes include the number of keratinocyte carcinomas at 24 weeks of treatment compared to placebo and then at 12 and 24 months after initiation of treatment. Analysis will be as per protocol and intention to treat.DiscussionThe results of this trial will inform management strategies for skin cancers in SOTRs and provide evidence for cost-effectiveness.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov NCT05860881. Registered on June 15, 2023, and on anzctr.org.au (registration number NCT05860881).

Sediment microtopography predicts localised benthic ecosystem functioning and the effect of species interactions

Soft-sediment ecosystems play a crucial role in marine environments, yet understanding the relationships between species composition and ecosystem functioning remains challenging. We investigated the potential of sediment microtopography as a predictor of ecosystem functioning in soft-sediment environments. We conducted controlled laboratory experiments focusing on the activity and microtopography generated by 2 co-occurring and functionally important species: the tellinid bivalve Macomona liliana and the maldanid polychaete Macroclymenella stewartensis. Custom-built, flow-through, gas-tight tanks were utilized to quantify sediment microtopography and assess benthic fluxes and porewater nutrient concentrations. Rugosity explained between 35 and 61% of the variability in oxygen, ammonium and nitrate + nitrite fluxes and was positively correlated with the variability of deep porewater ammonium concentrations. As a first step to validating direct links between microtopography and biophysical drivers of ecosystem processes, we highlight the potential to advance biodiversity-ecosystem function relationships for seafloor habitats. Broader investigation of the potential of microtopography as a surrogate for ecosystem functioning will lay the groundwork for novel approaches to predict and characterize changes in these vital coastal environments and inform management strategies.

Lake surface water temperature in China from 2001 to 2021 based on GEE and HANTS

Warming of lakes' surface water leads to accelerated loss of biodiversity and eco-environmental collapse of aquatic systems. Changes in lack surface water temperature (LSWT) are a crucial indicator of lake warming. LSWT growth potentially leads to a higher greenhouse gas emissions and deterioration of the ecological environment within lake systems. However, the magnitude of these changes remains uncertain due to data limitations, particularly for small lakes (1–5 km2). Small lakes will experience increasing perturbation with accelerating climate change and our methods demonstrate how the impacts of changes in lakes can be accurately measured and monitored. Our study assessed the spatial and temporal patterns of LSWT in China from 2001 to 2021. We utilized Google Earth Engine (GEE) and the Harmonic Analysis of Time Series (HANTS) algorithm to reconstruct LSWT series and detect spatiotemporal dynamics. The innovative connection of GEE and HANTS provides powerful tool for LSWT analysis. Our results show LSWT increased at a rate of 0.24 °C per decade, albeit with notable spatial and temporal variations. The nighttime rate of increase was greater than the daytime rate of increase. However, there was an abrupt change in daytime LSWT in approximately 2010 and this occurred earlier than an abrupt change in nighttime LSWT. Geographically, the lakes in the Eastern Plain zone exhibited the most significant LSWT warming trend. The majority of lakes warmed more rapidly between 2011 and 2021 as compared to 2001 to 2010. We found a concurrent and pronounced increase in the frequency of algal bloom occurrences after 2010. Our results demonstrate how GEE and HANTS can deliver the continued monitoring and assessment of LSWT trends needed to inform management strategies aimed at mitigating potential negative impacts of climate change on lake ecosystems, both locally and globally. Building on this method, future research should explore the underlying mechanisms driving LSWT trends and their long-term impacts on lake health.

Analysis of Key Environmental Variables Affecting Fish Communities and Species Distribution in Asian Lotic Ecosystems

In 2011, Korea installed artificial structures on four rivers to secure water resources and reduce flood damage; however, these structures have altered ecosystems and aquatic communities. This study analyzed fish communities and environmental variables at 72 sites in the Geumgang River. Fish communities and environmental variables before weir installation were examined using site data from 2008 to 2009. The results showed that Cyprinidae dominated the 70 observed species. A self-organizing map categorized the 72 sites into four groups based on fish communities. Sensitive and insectivorous species decreased, whereas tolerant and omnivorous species increased from Groups I to IV. Twenty-one indicator species were identified, with fewer and less distinct distribution patterns in Groups II and III than in Groups I and IV. The fish assessment index (FAI) showed a decline in grades A and B and an increase in grades C and D from Groups I to IV. Correlation analysis between the FAI and environmental variables indicated that fish communities in the Geumgang River were mainly influenced by water quality, reflecting altitude gradients and pollution levels. This study’s findings are anticipated to significantly inform water management strategies for the Geumgang, Yeongsangang, Nakdonggang, and Hangang Rivers.