bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of short- and long-term plant functional group removal on alpine meadow community niche
Authors: Wei Jingjing , Zhang Zhonghua , Ma Li , Hu Xue , Ade Haze , Su Hongye , Shi Zhengchen , Li Honglin , Zhou Huakun
Published: November 2024

The rapid loss of global biodiversity affects the creation and maintenance of community biodiversity and ecosystem structure and function. Thus, it is insufficient to focus solely on the effects of biodiversity loss on community biodiversity without also considering other impacts such as community assembly, niches, interspecific relationships, community stability, and biodiversity–ecosystem function. In this study, a 3- and 10-year biodiversity manipulation experiment was conducted in an alpine meadow to examine the effects of the individual plant functional group (PFG) removal on the niches of community dominant species by removal of Gramineae, Cyperaceae, legumes, and other forbs. The results indicated that PFG removal led to variation in community niches. The long-term PFG removal led to a gradual decline in the number of Gramineae and Cyperaceae species in the community. Over time, the niche widths of dominant Gramineae and Cyperaceae species gradually narrowed, and the degree of niche overlapping decreased. The number of positively and negatively associated species tended to decrease and increase, respectively. Reduced species diversity led to significant differences in the niches of the remaining species within the community. Thus, species niche differences, resulting from variation in resource allocation, commonly determined the dynamic construction of species composition within the community.
Resveratrol enhances the tolerance of Malus hupehensis to potassium deficiency stress
Authors: Sun Zhijuan , Wang Tianchao , Li Jianyu , Zheng Xiaodong , Ge Hongjuan , Sha Guangli , Ma Changqing , Zhao Qiang , Wang Caihong , Tian Yike
Published: November 2024

Potassium (K) deficiency in plants can lead to metabolic disorders and growth retardation. Currently, nearly 50% of the arable land in China is experiencing a K resource deficit, significantly hindering the development of the apple industry. Resveratrol (Res), a phytoalexin, has been extensively reported to enhance plant resistance against various abiotic stresses. However, there have been no reports on the response of Res to K+ deficiency stress in apples. This study aims to investigate the effect of exogenous Res on the K+ deficiency tolerance of Malus hupehensis. The results demonstrated that applying 50 μM of exogenous Res could enhance the tolerance of M. hupehensis to K+ deficiency stress. Compared to non-Res treatments, external application of Res alleviated leaf chlorosis and improved root growth in apple seedlings. Additionally, it increased antioxidant enzyme activity, thereby reducing the production of reactive oxygen species induced by K+ deficiency stress. Res also regulated proline and soluble sugar content to maintain osmotic balance. Moreover, Res helped maintain the balance of mineral element contents in apple seedlings and the normal K+: Na+ ratio by enhancing the influx of K+. Furthermore, exogenous Res regulated the expression of related kinase genes, promoting Ca2+ signal transduction in response to K+ deficiency stress and inducing the expression of K+ transport genes to enhance K+ absorption, thus supporting normal plant growth. In conclusion, this study provides a theoretical basis for the application of exogenous Res to alleviate K+ deficiency stress in apples.
Applying Community-based System Dynamics to promote child health equity: the case of healthy and fit kids in Milwaukee, WI
Authors: Greer Yvonne D. , Nevels Debra , Meinen Amy , Korth Amy L. , Moore Travis R. , Appel Julia , Werner Kelsey , Calancie Larissa , Ellis Andre Lee , Espy Niky , Hendricks Shantel , Johnson Tanya , Johnson Vanessa D. , Nabak Danielle , Rembert Viola , Simenz Christopher , Weeks Nicole , Wilks-Tate Angelia , Economos Christina D.
Published: November 2024

Background

Child health equity is influenced by complex systemic factors, including structural racism, socioeconomic disparities, and access to resources. Traditional public health interventions often target individual behaviors, but there is a growing need for systems approaches that address these root causes. This study examines coalition members’ perspectives on promoting child health equity in Milwaukee as a result of participating in an intervention that includes Community-based System Dynamics (CBSD).

Methods

In this case study, we used a mixed-methods approach to describe 10 coalition members’ perspective shifts over 6 months, after participating in CBSD activities. These activities generated a causal-loop diagram to map the systemic factors influencing child health. Data collection included pre-post interviews and surveys. The data analysis involved thematic analysis of the qualitative data from interviews, which was then integrated with the open-ended survey responses. The themes identified were cross-referenced with the causal-loop diagram factors to validate and refine the understanding of systemic influences on child health.

Results

Post-intervention, coalition members shifted their focus from individual health behaviors to systemic drivers, particularly structural racism and socioeconomic disparities. The causal-loop diagram helped identify leverage points and fostered a readiness for local collective action and policy advocacy.

Conclusion

Integrating CBSD into public health coalitions can shift focus from individual behaviors to systemic causes, enabling more effective interventions. This approach offers valuable insights for promoting child health equity through holistic, community-driven strategies and public policy reforms.
Effect of whole-day work on surgical performance during simulated laparoscopic surgery: study protocol for a controlled cross over laboratory trial
Authors: Sevestre Anaïs , Souron Robin , Deschamps Thibault , Sarcher Aurélie , Thubert Thibault , Dochez Vincent
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Laparoscopy has become a fundamental aspect of surgery, presenting new challenges such as fatigue, encompassing both muscular and cognitive components. Given its potential to affect surgical precision and create difficulties for the surgeon, it is crucial to study the mechanisms of fatigue for patient safety and the well-being of surgeons. This study aims to demonstrate the influence of general fatigue on surgeons’ performance, incorporating assessments of movement quality through balance, kinematics, and muscle activation, as well as perceived workload. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate how surgeons’ experience may affect fatigue outcomes.

Methods and analysis

A controlled cross-over laboratory trial involving 29 residents and surgeons from the obstetrics and gynecology department of Nantes University Hospital is underway. Recruitment started in March 2023 and ended in September 2023. Participants with varying levels of experience perform two one-hour sessions of training box exercises, one in the morning (control condition) and the other at the end of a workday. The primary outcome is a composite score derived from the time to complete the Suturing and Knot Tying Training and Testing (SUTT) exercise, along with the number and quality of stitches. Secondary outcomes include perceived fatigue, discomfort, physical strain, muscle tension, mental workload, muscle activation (measured by surface electromyography), balance (measured using a force platform), and kinematics (measured using motion capture).

Ethics and dissemination

The study received ethical approval from the local ethics committee CERNI in December 2022 (n°13,122,022). Results will be presented in international conferences, submitted to peer-reviewed journals, and serve as a feasibility study for subsequent publications.
Japanese radiological technologists’ perceptions and interest in disaster medicine and radiation emergency medicine
Authors: Tsujiguchi Takakiyo , Naraoka Masato , Koiwa Tomoki , Yamanouchi Kanako , Ito Katsuhiro
Published: November 2024

Since the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident in Japan, there has been a growing demand for radiological technologists to play active roles in radiation emergency medicine. This study administered a questionnaire survey to determine radiological technologists’ experience, interest, and confidence in disaster medicine and radiation emergency medicine as well as their educational needs, particularly regarding radiation emergency medicine. Findings showed that less than 10% of radiological technologists working at nuclear emergency core hospitals and nuclear emergency medical cooperative institutions for nuclear disaster medical care had studied disaster medicine, regardless of their affiliation, age, or years of service, and that they lacked educational experience. However, they showed interest in general disasters and emergency medicine, and all aspects necessary for the treatment of injured and sick patients in nuclear disasters, such as dosimetry and radiation control, and were willing to learn through online formats, such as e-learning, to expand their learning opportunities. This research seeks to promote a positive perception of disaster and radiation emergency medical education among radiological technologists.
Comparative study of machine learning techniques for post-combustion carbon capture systems
Authors: Hu Yeping , Lei Bo , Shah Yash Girish , Cadena Jose , Saini Amar , Panagakos Grigorios , Nguyen Phan
Published: November 2024

Computational analysis of countercurrent flows in packed absorption columns, often used in solvent-based post-combustion carbon capture systems (CCSs), is challenging. Typically, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approaches are used to simulate the interactions between a solvent, gas, and column's packing geometry while accounting for the thermodynamics, kinetics, heat, and mass transfer effects of the absorption process. These simulations can then be used explain a column's hydrodynamic characteristics and evaluate its CO2-capture efficiency. However, these approaches are computationally expensive, making it difficult to evaluate numerous designs and operating conditions to improve efficiency at industrial scales. In this work, we comprehensively explore the application of statistical ML methods, convolutional neural networks (CNNs), and graph neural networks (GNNs) to aid and accelerate the scale-up and design optimization of solvent-based post-combustion CCSs. We apply these methods to CFD datasets of countercurrent flows in absorption columns with structured packings characterized by several geometric parameters. We train models to use these parameters, inlet velocity conditions, and other model-specific representations of the column to estimate key determinants of CO2-capture efficiency without having to simulate additional CFD datasets. We also evaluate the impact of different input types on the accuracy and generalizability of each model. We discuss the strengths and limitations of each approach to further elucidate the role of CNNs, GNNs, and other machine learning approaches for CO2-capture property prediction and design optimization.
Exploring how AI adoption in the workplace affects employees: a bibliometric and systematic review
Authors: Soulami Malika , Benchekroun Saad , Galiulina Asiya
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace is changing the way organizations function, and profoundly affecting employees. These organizational changes raise crucial questions about the employee’s future and well-being. Our study aims to explore the intersection between artificial intelligence and employee well-being through a bibliometric review and a contextual analysis.

Methodology

Carried out in May 2024, our study is divided into two phases. The first phase, dedicated to bibliometric review, was conducted using the PRISMA method, and explored the Scopus and Web of Science databases for the period from 2015 to 2024. A total of 92 articles were selected for quantitative analysis using VOSviewer software. The second phase is based on an in-depth systematic analysis of 25 articles selected from those previously identified. These articles were selected on the basis of their relevance to the research question, and were subjected to in-depth thematic analysis using NVivo software.

Results

The bibliometric analysis results reveal a significant increase in publications starting from the year 2020, highlighting advancements in research, primarily in the United States and China. The co-occurrence analysis identifies four main clusters: ethics, work autonomy, employee stress, and mental health, thus illustrating the dynamics created by artificial intelligence in the professional environment. Furthermore, the systematic analysis has brought to light theoretical gaps and under-explored areas, such as the need to conduct empirical studies in non-Western cultural contexts and among diverse target groups, including older adults, individuals of different sexes, people with low education levels, and participants from various sectors, including primary and secondary industries, small manufacturing businesses, call centers, as well as public and private healthcare sectors.

Conclusion

Existing literature emphasize the importance for organizations to implement supportive strategies aimed at mitigating the potential adverse effects of AI on employee well-being, while also leveraging its benefits to enhance workplace autonomy and satisfaction and promote AI-enabled innovation through employee creativity and self-efficacy.
The relationship between upper airway parameters and COVID-19 symptom severity in adolescents
Authors: Du Tianjing , Wang Juan , Mei Peter , Li Dongning , Zhao Jiamin , Zhou Jianglin , Wang Jun , Xu Yifei , Qi Kun
Published: November 2024

Background

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, and its symptoms may be affected by the upper airways of adolescents.

Objective

To investigate the effect of parameters of adolescents’ upper airways on COVID-19 symptom severity.

Methods

This retrospective study was performed from January to March 2022 at the Hospital of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China. The inclusion criteria were patients who started orthodontic treatment for the first time, who experienced initial onset of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, and who received two intramuscular doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Participants’ COVID-19 symptom severity was recorded by a questionnaire including seven different dimensions. The three-dimensional parameters of the upper airway were obtained by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and measured by Dolphin Imaging software by blinded orthodontic investigators. The correlation between COVID-19 symptom severity and three-dimensional upper airway parameters was analyzed.

Results

64 males (46.4%) and 74 females (53.6%) were included in the study, with the median age of 9.5 years. The severity score of dimension 3 (headache, muscle pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, diarrhea and smell affects) showed a linear relationship with age. Spearman's rank correlation showed that the severity score of dimension 1 (nasal symptoms) was negatively correlated with nasal volume (r = −0.325). The severity score of dimension 6 was negatively correlated with the height of the nasopharynx (r = −0.325) and positively correlated with the horizontal-to-vertical ratio of the oropharynx (r = 0.385).

Conclusions and relevance

The COVID-19 symptom severity was aggravated with the increase of age. Nasal and throat pain and dry mouth was negatively correlated with nasal volume and nasopharyngeal height. The COVID-19 symptom severity among individuals is relavant to age and upper airway.
Considerations on amino acid patterns in the natural felid diet: a review
Authors: Sun Mengmeng , Cuyper Annelies De , Dierenfeld Ellen S. , Janssens Geert P. J.
Published: November 2024

Amino acids are essential for the growth, development, and reproduction of carnivores. This literature review summarizes the amino acid patterns of different raw diets including whole prey, body tissue and muscle for felids under human care. In general, natural prey (and its parts) meet the minimum essential amino acid requirements outlined by the National Research Council for adult cats. On a whole-prey diet, lysine and methionine far exceed requirements, while histidine approaches the minimum threshold. However, histidine concentration is higher in muscle meat. Body tissues, except for the skin, demonstrate no deficiency in essential amino acids. Notably, non-essential amino acids are found in raw meat diets in elevated concentrations, and their levels remain stable, akin to those of essential amino acids. Although felid requirements for non-essential amino acids are not specified, attention should be paid to their role in nutrition. While the amino acid patterns of diverse raw diets show no significant variation, the impact of prolonged single-source protein may require attention.
Proposing a Conceptual Framework: Social Media Infodemic Listening for Public Health Behaviors
Authors: Tsao Shu-Feng , Chen Helen Hong , Meyer Samantha B. , Butt Zahid A.
Published: November 2024

Various communication and behavioral theories have been adopted to address health infodemics. However, there is no framework specially designed for social listening studies using social media data, machine learning, and natural language processing techniques. We aimed to propose a novel yet theory-based conceptual framework for infodemic research. We collected theories and models used in COVID-19 related studies published in peer-reviewed journals, ranging from health behavior, communication, to infodemic studies. These were analyzed and critiqued for their components, and we subsequently proposed a conceptual framework with a demonstration. Accordingly, we proposed our “Social Media Listening for Public Health Behavior” conceptual framework by not only integrating important attributes of existing theories, but also adding new attributes. The proposed conceptual framework can be used to better understand public discourse on social media, and can be integrated with other data analyses to gather a more comprehensive picture.
Characterization and typification of small-scale goat production systems in the highlands of southeast Peru
Authors: Palomino Guerrera Walter , Godoy Padilla David , Huaripaucar Huancahuari Joseen , Sessarego Dávila Emmanuel , Trillo Zárate Fritz , Cruz Luis Juancarlos
Published: November 2024

Goat breeding in Peru is one of the main activities of smallholders. Goats are distributed in different agroecological zones and regions of the country, developing under heterogeneity of production systems, making it difficult to understand goat breeders’ socioeconomic, technological, and productive situations. This study aimed to characterize and typify the goat production systems in the highlands of southeast Peru. A survey was conducted with 91 goat farmers from five districts of Ayacucho, Peru, using a structured and individualized questionnaire administered on their farms. The socio-economic, productive, and commercial characteristics of the goat production systems were recorded. A multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and hierarchical classification analysis (HCA) were performed to establish a typology of the smallholders. The results reveal that the breeding system is extensive, where there is no breeding program, with natural pastures and crop stubble being the source of food for the herds. Only slightly more than half (54%) carry out a deworming program. Farmers were categorized into three different groups, corresponding to three different farming systems: Group 1 farmers raised goats solely for home consumption; Group 2 breeders raised goats for both consumption and marketing of surplus products (cheese, milk, and meat), and Group 3 farmed focused on producing cheese and goat kids and selling to local markets. The study provides valuable insights that will help design effective breeding strategies to develop sustainable goat farming in the region, considering different production systems and their respective socio-economic and trade dynamics. This classification will be essential for tailoring development programs to the specific needs of each group, promoting better use of resources, improving productivity, and enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder goat producers in Peru.
Robust Adaptive Robotic Visual Servo Grasping with Guaranteed Field of View Constraints
Authors: Li Liang , Luo Junqi , Hong Peitao , Bai Wenhao , Zhang Zhenyu , Zhu Liucun
Published: November 2024

Visual servo grasping technology has garnered significant attention in intelligent manufacturing for its potential to enhance both the flexibility and precision of robotic operations. However, traditional approaches frequently encounter challenges such as task failure when visual features move outside the camera’s field of view (FoV) and system instability due to interaction matrix singularities, limiting the technology’s effectiveness in complex environments. This study introduces a novel control strategy that leverages an asymmetric time-varying performance function to address the issue of visual feature escape. By strictly limiting the range of feature error, our approach ensures that visual features consistently remain within the camera’s FoV, thereby enhancing both transient and steady-state system performance. Furthermore, we have developed an adaptive damped least squares controller that dynamically adjusts the damping term to mitigate numerical instability resulting from interaction matrix singularities. The effectiveness of our method has been validated through grasping experiments involving significant rotations around the camera’s optical axis and other complex movements.
Non-Destructive Evaluation of Physicochemical Properties for Egg Freshness: A Review
Authors: Rho Tae-Gyun , Cho Byoung-Kwan
Published: November 2024

Egg freshness is a critical factor that influences the egg’s nutritional value, safety, and overall quality; consequently, it is a priority for both producers and consumers. This review examines the factors that affect egg freshness, and it evaluates both traditional and modern methods for assessing egg freshness. Traditional techniques, such as the Haugh unit test and candling, have long been utilized; however, they have limitations, which are primarily due to their destructive nature. The review also highlights advanced non-destructive methods, including Vis-NIR spectroscopy, ultrasonic testing, machine vision, thermal imaging, hyperspectral imaging, Raman spectroscopy, and NMR/MRI technologies. These techniques offer rapid and accurate assessments while preserving the integrity of the eggs. Despite the current challenges related to calibration and implementation, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning with these innovative technologies presents a promising avenue for the improvement of freshness evaluation. This development could revolutionize quality control processes in the egg industry, ensuring consistently high-quality eggs for consumers.
The Trend of Coal Mining-Disturbed CDR AVHRR NDVI (1982–2022) in a Plain Agricultural Region—A Case Study on Yongcheng Coal Mine and Its Buffers in China
Authors: Lu Jingyang , Ma Chao , Cui Zhenzhen , Ma Wensi , Li Tingting
Published: November 2024

The destruction of arable land caused by coal mining in coal grain compound areas is a major bottleneck restricting grain production increase. The spatiotemporal correlation between the decline in cultivated land quality and crop growth deterioration due to mining subsidence still needs to be clarified. This study employed the CDR AVHRR NDVI dataset and applied correlation and trend analysis methods to extract vegetation cover information from 1982 to 2022. It also explored the relationships between vegetation cover and temperature and precipitation. The study found the following: (1) Over the past 41 years, the NDVI in the study area showed a significant upward trend. Specifically, the average annual NDVI growth rate in the mining area was 51.85%, while the corresponding growth rates for the 10 km buffer area, 20 km buffer area, and check area (CK) were 65.91%, 65.86%, and 68.09%, respectively. The start of the growing season (SOS) for winter wheat in the mining area and control area advanced by 49 ± 1.5 days and 65 ± 1.5 days, respectively, while the length of the growing season (LOS) extended by 59 ± 1.5 days and 72 ± 1.5 days, respectively. For summer maize, the SOS advanced by 11 ± 1.5 days and 15 ± 1.5 days, respectively, and the LOS extended by 17 ± 1.5 days and 19 ± 1.5 days, respectively. The study area exhibited a significant positive correlation between the NDVI and temperature. Specifically, the correlation coefficient for the mining area was 0.6865 (p < 0.01); for the 10 km buffer zone, it was 0.5937 (p < 0.01), for the 20 km buffer zone, it was 0.6775 (p < 0.01), and for the control check area (CK), it was 0.6591 (p < 0.01). The results of this study can provide data support for the collaborative rehabilitation of and source reduction in coal grain compound areas, as well as for the restoration of damaged farmland.
Improved Cd Detection in Rice Grain Using LIBS with Husk-Based XGBoost Transfer Learning
Authors: Xie Weiping , Xu Jiang , Huang Lin , Xu Yuan , Wan Qi , Chen Yangfan , Yao Mingyin
Published: November 2024

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic metal that is difficult to completely eliminate from soil, despite advancements in modern agricultural and environmental technologies that have successfully reduced Cd levels. However, rice remains a key source of Cd exposure for humans. Even small amounts of Cd absorbed by rice can pose a potential health risk to the human body. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has the advantages of simple sample preparation and fast analysis, which, combined with the transfer learning method, is expected to realize the real-time and rapid detection of low-level heavy metals in rice. In this work, 21 groups of naturally matured rice samples from potentially Cd-contaminated environments were collected. These samples were processed into rice husk, brown rice, and polished rice groups, and the reference Cd content was measured by ICP-MS. The XGBoost algorithm, known for its excellent performance in handling high-dimensional data and nonlinear relationships, was applied to construct both the XGBoost base model and the XGBoost-based transfer learning model to predict Cd content in brown rice and polished rice. By pre-training on rice husk source data, the XGBoost-based transfer learning model can learn from the abundant information available in rice husk to improve Cd quantification in rice grain. For brown rice, the XGBoost base model achieved RC2 of 0.9852 and RP2 of 0.8778, which were improved to 0.9885 and 0.9743, respectively, with the XGBoost-based transfer learning model. In the case of polished rice, the base model achieved RC2 of 0.9838 and RP2 of 0.8683, while the transfer learning model enhanced these to 0.9883 and 0.9699, respectively. The results indicate that the transfer learning method not only improves the detection capability for low Cd content in rice but also provides new insights for food safety detection.
Using Machine Learning to Propose a Qualitative Classification of Risk of Soil Erosion
Authors: Cardoso Dione Pereira , Ossani Paulo Cesar , Cirillo Marcelo Angelo , Silva Marx Leandro Naves , Avanzi Junior Cesar
Published: November 2024

Soil loss compromises ecosystem services essential for sustainable development, necessitating effective strategies to identify priority areas for conservation practices aimed at reducing soil erosion. Current methods often rely on literature-based classification, which can be subjective. This study explores the use of artificial intelligence techniques to enhance the objectivity and efficiency of qualitative classifications for soil erosion risk. Accordingly, the aims were to apply Machine Learning methods, specifically cluster analysis, to categorize soil erosion risk in the Peixe Angical Basin, in addition to using a discriminant analysis to propose a discriminant classifier vectors for current and future predictions of soil loss risks. Our database consisted of pixel-based data on the R, K, LS, and C factors. These input data were linked to soil losses (output data), which had been classified based on findings from studies conducted in a different basin. Following this, machine learning techniques were applied to analyze the data. The cluster analysis identified seven distinct erosion risk groups: slight, slight to moderate, moderate, moderate to severe, severe, very severe, and extremely severe. Additionally, discriminant analysis facilitated the development of seven predictive models for current and future soil erosion risk, streamlining the need of new soil erosion modeling and enhancing decision-making processes. We anticipate that this methodology can be applied to other basins, providing a more robust framework for assessing soil erosion risk without relying on arbitrary qualitative classification.
B Chromosomes in Wheat: Evolution, Functions and Breeding Potential
Authors: Islam Md Mazharul , Deepo Deen Mohammad , Siddique Abu Bakar , Nasif Saifullah Omar , Zonayet Md , Hassan Oliul , Siddique Abu Bakar , Ali Md Arfan
Published: November 2024

Supernumerary B chromosomes (Bs) have been documented in over 2000 species across the plant, animal, and fungal kingdoms, representing one of the most intriguing components of the genome that have consistently garnered significant attention in the past. These Bs form a distinct category of chromosomes that are not deemed essential. While coexisting with the standard set of chromosomes in an organism, the copy numbers of Bs can vary among individuals within a population or even among cells within a single organism. Multiple processes, including chromosomal rearrangement, uneven segregation, chromatid non-disjunction, and deletion in specific regions, lead to the formation of the Bs from the A chromosome. These dispensable Bs possess their own genetic content and do not undergo recombination with A chromosomes. Although various roles of Bs in breeding have been explored in the literature, their specific role in wheat improvement remains unclear. The understanding of their origins, composition, and evolutionary history in wheat is still incomplete. Therefore, this review discusses the current knowledge of the genetic makeup of Bs, their functions, their relationship with A chromosomes, and the morphogenetic consequences in the context of wheat.
SIBILA: Automated Machine-Learning-Based Development of Interpretable Machine-Learning Models on High-Performance Computing Platforms
Authors: Banegas-Luna Antonio Jesús , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio
Published: November 2024

As machine learning (ML) transforms industries, the need for efficient model development tools using high-performance computing (HPC) and ensuring interpretability is crucial. This paper presents SIBILA, an AutoML approach designed for HPC environments, focusing on the interpretation of ML models. SIBILA simplifies model development by allowing users to set objectives and preferences before automating the search for optimal ML pipelines. Unlike traditional AutoML frameworks, SIBILA is specifically designed to exploit the computational capabilities of HPC platforms, thereby accelerating the model search and evaluation phases. The emphasis on interpretability is particularly crucial when model transparency is mandated by regulations or desired for stakeholder understanding. SIBILA has been validated in different tasks with public datasets. The results demonstrate that SIBILA consistently produces models with competitive accuracy while significantly reducing computational overhead. This makes it an ideal choice for practitioners seeking efficient and transparent ML solutions on HPC infrastructures. SIBILA is a major advancement in AutoML, addressing the rising demand for explainable ML models on HPC platforms. Its integration of interpretability constraints alongside automated model development processes marks a substantial step forward in bridging the gap between computational efficiency and model transparency in ML applications. The tool is available as a web service at no charge.
Talking Dogs: The Paradoxes Inherent in the Cultural Phenomenon of Soundboard Use by Dogs
Authors: Włodarczyk Justyna , Harrison Jack , Kruszona-Barełkowska Sara L. , Wynne Clive D. L.
Published: November 2024

In recent years, dogs that appear to communicate with people by pressing buttons on soundboards that replay pre-recorded English words have become very popular on social media online. We explore how these dogs belong to a historical tradition that dates back at least to the Middle Ages and peaked in the early twentieth century. Through analyses of short videos, books, and training manuals, we identify several paradoxes inherent in this phenomenon. These include how the dogs appear to provide unmediated access to their thoughts, and yet, their button presses are typically incoherent and require interpretation. They also require months of training to “spontaneously” express themselves. There is also an anthropomorphism and -centrism in claiming that a human skill—language—is required for a dog to express mental states that it already possesses. This approach to communicating with dogs quiets canine forms of expression such as barking, whining, bodily postures, and odors and replaces them with endearing but infantile human voices. We suggest that, while this endeavor may be well intentioned and often playful, it runs the risk of skewing people’s perception of dogs towards fur-clad infants rather than adult members of a different species and of making people less attentive to canine nonverbal communication.
Exploring Photoreceptor Gene Expression and Seasonal Physiology in Mediterranean Swordfish (Xiphias gladius)
Authors: Gioacchini Giorgia , Filippi Sara , Cardillo Chiara , De Simone Kevin , Zarantoniello Matteo , Mascoli Alessia , Carnevali Oliana , Colella Sabrina , Chemello Giulia
Published: November 2024

Mature and immature female swordfish show different gonadal expression patterns of melatonin synthesis-related and opsin genes, indicating that seasonality affects gonadal circadian genes, especially through opsin modulation. The high energy demands of reproduction may cause mature female swordfish to become more susceptible to environmental stressors/changes, potentially affecting their health post-reproduction. The modulation of melatonin and opsin expression may also influence swordfish biology, impacting basal metabolism and stress responses. This study aimed to investigate the hepatic expression patterns of genes involved in melatonin and opsins activity after the reproductive period, comparing mature and immature females. Liver samples of swordfish females, collected from the Central Adriatic Sea, were analyzed to evaluate the expression of a melatonin receptor (mel1b), acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (asmt), opsins (sws, VA opsin and opsin4), and stress response (sod1, sod2 and hsp4b) genes, while histological analysis focused on hepatic melanomacrophages, melanomacrophage centers, and lipid content. The expression of all genes analyzed did not differ between mature and immature females except for sws, which was significantly downregulated in mature females. The overall health conditions of mature and immature females appeared comparable, as suggested by the histological analysis and the absence of significant differences in the expression of stress response genes. Although the study used a limited number of samples and lacked a comparison between the reproductive and non-reproductive periods, the preliminary results suggest that opsins may play a role in modulating physiological processes beyond reproduction.
Evaluating the Pathogenic Potential of IgE Targeting Cross-Reactive Carbohydrate Determinants in Dogs
Authors: Olivry Thierry , Mas Fontao Ana , Widorn Laura , Mueller Ralf S.
Published: November 2024

Cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs) are complex N-glycans shared among allergens of plant, insect venom, and nematode origin. In allergic humans, IgE anti-CCD often develop and cause discrepancies between serological and skin tests. Overall, CCD-IgE are believed to be of low pathogenic relevance. IgE-targeting CCDs are also detected in companion animals, but their pathogenic potential and biological relevance are unknown. Herein, we first establish that, in 34 dogs with atopic dermatitis, the presence of serum anti-CCD IgE was detected in 14 pets (41.2%). In dogs, as in humans, IgE-targeting CCDs are heterogeneous, as they differentially recognized four distinct CCD-expressing proteins. The presence of CCD-IgE was associated with a higher and more frequent recognition of plant extracts in serological but not intradermal tests. Two different CCD-expressing proteins did not elicit immediate reactions when injected intradermally in dogs with detectable serum anti-CCD IgE. Similarly, two different CCD-expressing proteins did not induce the activation of mast cells passively transferred with canine anti-CCD IgE. Altogether, these results suggest that in dogs, as in humans, anti-CCD IgE are likely to have little pathogenic potential and blocking them in allergen-specific IgE serological tests is warranted to avoid false-positive results to plant extracts.
A Comparative Metabolomics Study of the Potential Marker Compounds in Feces from Different Hybrid Offspring of Huainan Pigs
Authors: Li Yufu , Jia Mingyang , Chen Junfeng , Liu Fujiu , Ren Qiaoling , Yan Xiangzhou , Xing Baosong , Pan Chuanying , Wang Jing
Published: November 2024

As a notable native Chinese genetic population, the Huainan pig has an exceptional meat quality but a low percentage of lean meat and subpar genetic performance. To better exploit the superior genetic traits of the Huainan pig and address knowledge gaps regarding the optimization of its hybrid offspring, this study used Huainan pigs as the maternal line and bred them with Yorkshire, Landrace, and Berkshire sires. This approach produced three hybrid combinations: Yorkshire × Huainan (YH), Landrace × Huainan (LH), and Berkshire × Huainan (BH). The body size, fat ratio, and average backfat thickness of these hybrid progeny were evaluated under the same feeding management and nutritional circumstances. The results revealed that the average backfat thickness of YH was significantly lower than that of LH and BH. In order to better understand the causes of these variations, fecal samples were taken from three pigs in each group for metabolomic analysis. A total of 2291 metabolites were identified, including benzene derivatives (16.6%), amino acids and their metabolites (14.5%), and organic acids (13.4%), with pyruvaldehyde and norethindrone acetate elevated in YH compared to LH and BH. In addition, the three hybrid pig groups commonly exhibited differences in the “glycerophospholipid metabolism” pathway. This variation may also contribute to differences in their fat ratio and backfat thickness. Our findings provide a novel perspective on the role of hybrid vigor in advancing the genetic population of Huainan pigs, while also revealing the unique metabolic characteristics of the YH with regard to fat deposition. This study is expected to enhance the conservation and effective utilization of genetic resources within the Huainan pig population.
The Accessory Olfactory Bulb in Arvicola scherman: A Neuroanatomical Study in a Subterranean Mammal
Authors: Ruiz-Rubio Sara , Ortiz-Leal Irene , Torres Mateo V. , Elsayed Mostafa G. A. , Somoano Aitor , Sanchez-Quinteiro Pablo
Published: November 2024

The accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) processes chemical signals crucial for species-specific socio-sexual behaviors. There is limited information about the AOB of wild rodents, and this study aims to characterize the neurochemical organization of the AOB in the fossorial water vole (Arvicola scherman), a subterranean Cricetidae rodent. We employed histological, immunohistochemical, and lectin-histochemical techniques. The AOB of these voles exhibits a distinct laminar organization, with prominent mitral cells and a dense population of periglomerular cells. Lectin histochemistry and G-protein immunohistochemistry confirmed the existence of an antero-posterior zonation. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated significant expression of PGP 9.5, suggesting its involvement in maintaining neuronal activity within the AOB. In contrast, the absence of SMI-32 labelling in the AOB, compared to its strong expression in the main olfactory bulb, highlights functional distinctions between these two olfactory subsystems. Calcium-binding proteins allowed the characterization of atypical sub-bulbar nuclei topographically related to the AOB. All these features suggest that the AOB of Arvicola scherman is adapted for enhanced processing of chemosensory signals, which may play a pivotal role in its subterranean lifestyle. Our results provide a foundation for future studies exploring the implications of these adaptations, including potential improvements in the management of these vole populations.
Food and Waterborne Cryptosporidiosis from a One Health Perspective: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ali Munwar , Ji Yaru , Xu Chang , Hina Qazal , Javed Usama , Li Kun
Published: November 2024

A sharp rise in the global population and improved lifestyles has led to questions about the quality of both food and water. Among protozoan parasites, Cryptosporidium is of great importance in this regard. Hence, Cryptosporidium’s associated risk factors, its unique characteristics compared to other protozoan parasites, its zoonotic transmission, and associated economic losses in the public health and livestock sectors need to be focused on from a One Health perspective, including collaboration by experts from all three sectors. Cryptosporidium, being the fifth largest food threat, and the second largest cause of mortality in children under five years of age, is of great significance. The contamination of vegetables, fresh fruits, juices, unpasteurized raw milk, uncooked meat, and fish by Cryptosporidium oocysts occurs through infected food handlers, sewage-based contamination, agricultural effluents, infected animal manure being used as biofertilizer, etc., leading to severe foodborne outbreaks. The only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug, Nitazoxanide (NTZ), provides inconsistent results in all groups of patients, and currently, there is no vaccine against it. The prime concerns of this review are to provide a deep insight into the Cryptosporidium’s global burden, associated water- and foodborne outbreaks, and some future perspectives in an attempt to effectively manage this protozoal disease. A thorough literature search was performed to organize the most relevant, latest, and quantified data, justifying the title. The estimation of its true burden, strategies to break the transmission pathways and life cycle of Cryptosporidium, and the search for vaccine targets through genome editing technology represent some future research perspectives.
Ocular Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid Demonstrates a Distinct Autoantibody Profile from Those of Other Autoimmune Blistering Diseases: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Liu Yingzi , Bao Lei , Sodha Dharm , Li Jing , Mansini Adrian , Djalilian Ali R. , Li Xiaoguang , Qian Hua , Ishii Norito , Hashimoto Takashi , Amber Kyle T.
Published: November 2024

Background: Ocular predominant mucous membrane pemphigoid (oMMP) is a severe subtype of autoimmune blistering disease (AIBD), which can result in scarring and vision loss. The diagnosis of oMMP is challenging as patients often have undetectable levels of circulating autoantibodies by conventional assays. Likewise, the principal autoantigen in oMMP has been an area of debate. Methods: In this preliminary experiment, we performed Phage Immunoprecipitation Sequencing (PhIP-seq) on sera from patients with oMMP, as well as non-ocular MMP, bullous pemphigoid, and mucocutaneous-type pemphigus vulgaris. Results: We identified several autoantigens unique to oMMP relative to other AIBDs. We then cross-referenced these antigens against previously published single-nuclei datasets, as well as the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium Database. Several protein hits identified in our study demonstrated enriched expression on the anterior surface epithelia, including TNKS1BP1, SEC16B, FNBP4, CASZ1, GOLGB1, DOT1L, PRDM 15, LARP4B, and RPL6. Likewise, a previous study of mouse knockout models of murine analogs CASZ1, HIP1, and ELOA2 reported that these mice showed abnormalities in terms of the ocular surface and development in the eyes. Notably, PhIP-seq failed to identify the canonical markers of AIBDs such as BP180, BP230, desmogleins 1 and 3, or integrin β4, indicating that the patient autoantibodies react with conformational epitopes rather than linear epitopes. Conclusions: oMMP patients demonstrate a unique autoantibody repertoire relative to the other AIBDs. Further validation of the identified autoantibodies will shed light on their potentially pathogenic role.
Diversity, Distribution, and Resistance Profiles of Bacterial Bloodstream Infections in Three Tertiary Referral Hospitals in Rwanda Between 2020 and 2022
Authors: Gashegu Misbah , Ndahindwa Vedaste , Rwagasore Edson , Tuyishime Albert , Musanabaganwa Clarisse , Gahamanyi Noel , Mukagatare Isabelle , Mbarushimana Djibril , Green Christopher Aird , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Ahmed Ayman , Muvunyi Claude Mambo
Published: November 2024

Background: The burden of bacterial bloodstream infections (BSIs) is rapidly increasing in Africa including Rwanda. Methods: This is a retrospective study that investigates the diversity, distribution, and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of BSI bacteria in three tertiary referral hospitals in Rwanda between 2020 and 2022. Results: A total of 1532 blood culture tests were performed for visiting patients. Overall, the proportions of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria were 48.2% and 51.8, respectively. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant species accounting for 25% of all Gram-positive BSI species, and Klebsiella species represented 41% of all Gram-negative BSI species. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that Amikacin exhibited the highest activity against Enterobacter spp., Serratia spp., and Escherichia coli in >92% of cases and Klebsiella spp. in 75.7%. Meropenem and Imipenem were highly efficacious to Salmonella spp. (100% susceptibility), Enterobacter spp. (96.2% and 91.7%, respectively), and Escherichia coli (94.7% and 95.5%, respectively). The susceptibility of Enterococcus spp., S. aureus, and Streptococcus spp. to Vancomycin was 100%, 99.5%, and 97.1%, respectively. Klebsiella spp. was highly sensitive to Colistin (98.7%), Polymyxin B (85.6%), Imipenem (84.9%), and Meropenem (78.5%). Conclusions: We recommend strengthening the implementation of integrated transdisciplinary and multisectoral One Health including AMR stewardship for the surveillance, prevention, and control of AMR in Rwanda.