bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The transnational frontier of resort master plans: a gateway to borderless legacies for the environment and humanity
Authors: Ayala Hana
Published: July 2024

The article departs from the evolving concept and practice of the tourism and hotel industry's environmental stewardship, with a special emphasis on the industry's initiatives inspired by the latest United Nations' agreements to tackle global warming and reverse biodiversity loss. It singles out the international resort enterprise for its unmatched yet dormant potential to deliver transformational insights into borders-blind linkages and relationships shaped by evolutionary and ecological forces and interwoven in the marvel and fragility of our living planet. This move is corroborated with analyses of the latent economic power of wonder embedded in the natural world's infinite connectivity and is emboldened in its promise via comparisons with the ever-grander ambition of science philanthropy and eco-philanthropy. The article makes the case and supplies a blueprint for a new generation of resort products and resort portfolios master-planned to shepherd and sustain through their business model transnational routes of awareness and guardianship of “one Earth” and to facilitate science-charted recalibration of global conservation strategies.
Investigating a surface water quality monitoring approach for QwaQwa, South Africa, by combining biological in vitro tests and chemical analyses
Authors: Avenant Marinda , Börnick Hilmar , Graumnitz Stephanie , Nyoka Ngitheni , Opeolu Beatrice , Voua Otomo Patricks , Schubert Annika , Schubert Sara , Vos Tascha , Jungmann Dirk
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Water quality assessment is a fundamental requirement for comprehensive water management. Access to water is not exclusively a quantitative issue, as human activities often lead to negative impacts on water quality due to pollution. This results in a need for the systematic monitoring of water bodies to surveil ongoing pollution dynamics and, if needed, facilitate the implementation of suitable solutions for water quality management.

Methods

To that effect, in March 2022 and July 2023, we conducted two sampling campaigns in four headwater streams in QwaQwa, South Africa, to assess the water quality under high (summer) and low (winter) flow conditions. The overarching aim was to support local decision-makers with relevant information on water quality in a semirural and less studied area. Beside the hydrological characterization of the catchment, which drains the mountainous areas around Phuthaditjhaba (the main town of the region), physicochemical and biological monitoring were conducted, including in vitro tests detecting endocrine disruption, dioxin-like impacts, and genotoxic potentials in the water.

Results

The elemental analysis showed that at several sampling sites, Al, Cu, Mn, Fe, and Zn were above the Target-Water-Quality-Range (TWQR) for aquatic ecosystems and Fe, Al, and Mn were additionally above the TWQR for domestic use. Interestingly, the organic micropollutants (OMPs) revealed a region with a high incidence of HIV infections, given the occurrence of the drugs efavirenz, its transformation product 8-OH-efavirenz and nevirapine, among other micropollutants. Possibly, the signals from the in vitro tests for endocrine disruption are also induced by the detected micropollutants. Our results ultimately show that even though anthropogenic impacts increase from upstream to downstream, none of the sampling sites are without concern. This indicates the urgent need for measures to increase the water quality of these headwater streams in this region.
A complex biostimulant based on plant flavonoids enhances potato growth and commercial yields
Authors: Salvage Richard , Cannon Tim , Kingsmill Philip , Liu Fuquan , Fleming Colin C.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Potatoes are one of the world’s most important agricultural crops, with potential for making a major contribution to global food security. This study shows how a biostimulant derived from a plant extract can improve potato crop yield and global food supply. Successful potato production currently requires significant levels of inputs including fertiliser, pesticides and irrigation, however non-microbial plant biostimulants or mixtures of biostimulants with synergistic actions, have the capacity to reduce inputs and improve the sustainability of intensive agriculture.

Methods

A complex biostimulant containing a number of flavonoids including protocatechuic acid, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, coumaroyl quinic acid and gentistic acid was tested against three potato varieties for its efficacy in improving plant growth characteristics and tuber production in controlled and field environments.

Results

In containers, complex biostimulant treatment enhanced photosynthetic ability, with elevated levels of chlorophyll, higher specific leaf areas and significantly larger leaf assimilation areas. Treatment also significantly increased tuber yield by an average of 33% in tuber weight across three potato varieties and shifted tuber production toward larger sized tubers. The biostimulant derived from flavonoids was also assessed in 6 commercial potato crops and consistently increased total yield (average 5.2%) and marketable yield, representing an increase in margins of UK£700 per hectare across the 6 crops. Similar increases in yield were seen when comparing chitted and unchitted seed potatoes and both types of seed responded positively to biostimulant application. Biostimulant treatment had no significant effects on tuber specific gravity, dry matter percentage and starch content, except at one location where these quality characteristics were higher in the control plants.

Conclusion

The flavonoid based complex biostimulant produced significant effects on potato yield and quality in both container experiments and in field trials indicating its potential for contributing to sustainable potato production.
Potential for and impacts of mainstreaming diversification crops through institutional catering
Authors: André Marine , Pujos Lise , Martin Guillaume
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In France, land use is dominated by a narrow range of crops. As crop diversification is increasingly promoted to transform the food system, outlets for diversification crops need to be identified. We assess the scope for introducing diversification crops from farmers’ fields to canteen plates, and the agroecological, environmental, work-related and nutritional impacts of their introduction.

Methods

We focus on three diversification crops: chickpea, squash, and millet, to partly replace soft wheat, potato, and durum wheat, respectively. For each crop, we define three scenarios of low (1), medium (2) and high (3) integration into institutional catering on a national scale. We assess the scenarios against the amount of diversification cropland area needed and their expected impacts.

Results

Diversification crops can be developed through institutional catering. Taking the case of chickpea, in Scenario 1, chickpea flour is introduced in a cake served once every 20 days, replacing 30% of the soft wheat flour used. This amounts to 874 ha cropped. In Scenario 2, chickpea flour partly replaces wheat flour in all preparations, and 4,048 ha are required. In Scenario 3, raw chickpeas are also introduced into new recipes and 20,958 ha are needed. All three diversification crops support the establishment of agroecological cropping systems, with enhanced nutrient cycling in particular, and reduce their environmental footprint, notably by avoiding pesticide use. Diversification crops do not generate work constraints for farmers and cooks. However, they have a lower productivity per unit area than the reference crops, although they do improve several nutrition parameters such as fiber intake.

Discussion

We show for the first time that institutional catering provides a tangible outlet for developing diversification crops and improving the sustainability of agriculture. Our scenarios can support concerted actions between farmers, supply-chain actors, cooks and policy makers, as well as communication to eaters surrounding their impacts on agriculture.
Integrating Analytics in Enterprise Systems: A Systematic Literature Review of Impacts and Innovations
Authors: Solano Maria C. , Cruz Juan C.
Published: July 2024

Recent advancements in Enterprise Information Systems (EISs) have transitioned from primarily supporting operational and tactical processes to enabling strategic decision-making through integrated analytics. This systematic review critically examines global literature from 2010 to 2023, focusing on the factors influencing the adoption of analytical components in EISs and assessing their impact on strategic decision-making in organizations. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we meticulously selected and reviewed articles from the Scopus database, employing a robust taxonomy based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework to categorize findings. Our methodology involved a thorough screening of 234 studies, leading to a final analysis of 45 peer-reviewed articles that met our stringent criteria. These studies collectively underscore a significant gap in organizational capabilities, notably in the business ecosystems surrounding EISs, which hampers the effective adoption and utilization of advanced analytics. The results highlight a distinct need for improved understanding and implementation strategies for integrated analytics within EISs to enhance strategic decision-making processes. This review identifies critical factors for integrating analytics into Enterprise Information Systems (EISs), emphasizing technological, organizational, and environmental dimensions. It highlights a significant gap in models guiding ERP systems with Business Intelligence (BI) capabilities and underscores the need for robust research to enhance strategic decision-making through analytics.
Lime and Gypsum Rates Effects in New Soybean Areas in the Cerrado of Matopiba, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Doze Batista de , Lacerda Julian Junio de Jesus , Cavalcante Adenilson Pereira , Bezerra Karmem Guimarães , Silva Allana Pereira Moura da , Miranda Ana Caroline Guimarães , Rambo Tiago Pieta , Maschio Rafael , Andrade Hosana Aguiar Freitas de , Costa Paula Muniz , Sousa Carlos Antonio Ferreira de , Oliveira Júnior José Oscar Lustosa de , Sagrilo Edvaldo , Souza Henrique Antunes de
Published: July 2024

High rates of limestone have been increasingly utilized in newly converted areas for grain production in agricultural frontier regions to expedite the short-term correction of soil fertility, leading to compensatory yields. However, there is a lack of information about different doses of lime and gypsum for soils in the Cerrado of Matopiba, especially in the state of Piauí, Brazil. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of doses of lime and gypsum in newly converted areas for soybean production in the Cerrado of Southwest Piauí. The study was carried out in the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 crop years, on yellow Oxisol soil, in a randomized block design and treatments following a 5 × 4 factorial: five lime rates (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 t ha−1) and four gypsum rates (0, 1, 2 and 4 t ha−1), with four replicates. The standard lime and gypsum rates were 5 t ha−1 and 1 t ha−1, respectively. Soil fertility attributes (0.0–0.2, 0.2–0.4, and 0.4–0.6 m), nutritional status of plants, and soybean yield were measured. The increases in grain yield using a lime rate of 10 t ha−1 were 18% and 12% in the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 crop years, respectively. High lime rates provide a reduction in the concentrations of P, K, and cationic micronutrients in soil, thereby reducing leaf contents of macro- and micronutrients in soybean plants. Concentrations of Ca, Mg, and S in subsurface layers were raised to proper levels, similar to those recommended for topsoil (0.0–0.2 m). The use of gypsum and lime in newly converted areas for soybean cultivation provides quick improvement in soil chemical conditions and reduction in acidity components. The application of 10 t ha−1 of lime improved the soil chemical environment in the Matopiba region the short time available for chemical reactions to occur, allowing soybean cultivation in newly converted areas of Cerrado into agriculture.
Research on the Detection Method of the Threshing Rate of Corn Ears Based on Machine Vision
Authors: Li Xinping , Xu Shendi , Zhang Wantong , Wang Junyi , Li Yanan , Peng Bin , Sun Ruizhe
Published: July 2024

The threshing rate is one of the important indexes to evaluate the effect of corn threshing. The weighing method is often used to calculate the depuration rate of maize at present. This method is time-consuming and laborious and can only calculate the overall threshing rate but does not give the threshing rate of individual corn ears. Different parameters of corn ears have complex effects on the threshing rate. By analyzing the threshing rate of each corn ear, we can choose the appropriate ear treatment method, optimize the processing equipment and process flow, and improve the threshing performance. This paper presents a method based on machine vision to detect the threshing rate of corn ears. In this method, machine vision was used to measure the parameters of the corncob and the area of the top of residual kernels. The area of the top of all kernels was restored based on the parameters of the corncob. The threshing rate of corn ears was calculated by the ratio of the area of the top of the missing kernel to the area of the top of all kernels after threshing. A bivariate linear regression area model was established to restore the area of the top of all corn kernels based on corncob parameters. The R2 was more significant than 0.98, and the goodness of fit was good. The machine vision inspection results showed that the maximum relative error of length and midsection radius was 7.46% and 5.55%, and the mean relative error was 2.58% and 2.23%. The maximum relative error of the corn ear threshing rate was 7.08%, and the mean relative error was 2.04%. When the residual kernels were concentrated in the midsection, the inspection result of the corn ear threshing rate was better. The maximum relative error was 3.98%, and the mean relative error was 1.07%. This paper provides a new idea and reference for measuring the threshing rate of corn ears.
Enhanced Real-Time Target Detection for Picking Robots Using Lightweight CenterNet in Complex Orchard Environments
Authors: Fan Pan , Zheng Chusan , Sun Jin , Chen Dong , Lang Guodong , Li Yafeng
Published: July 2024

The rapid development of artificial intelligence and remote sensing technologies is indispensable for modern agriculture. In orchard environments, challenges such as varying light conditions and shading complicate the tasks of intelligent picking robots. To enhance the recognition accuracy and efficiency of apple-picking robots, this study aimed to achieve high detection accuracy in complex orchard environments while reducing model computation and time consumption. This study utilized the CenterNet neural network as the detection framework, introducing gray-centered RGB color space vertical decomposition maps and employing grouped convolutions and depth-separable convolutions to design a lightweight feature extraction network, Light-Weight Net, comprising eight bottleneck structures. Based on the recognition results, the 3D coordinates of the picking point were determined within the camera coordinate system by using the transformation relationship between the image’s physical coordinate system and the camera coordinate system, along with depth map distance information of the depth map. Experimental results obtained using a testbed with an orchard-picking robot indicated that the proposed model achieved an average precision (AP) of 96.80% on the test set, with real-time performance of 18.91 frames per second (FPS) and a model size of only 17.56 MB. In addition, the root-mean-square error of positioning accuracy in the orchard test was 4.405 mm, satisfying the high-precision positioning requirements of the picking robot vision system in complex orchard environments.
Application of 2-Iminoselenazolidin-4-Ones (ISeA) for Beta vulgaris L. and Brassica rapa L. Plants Se-Biofortification
Authors: Semenova Natalia A. , Nikulina Elena A. , Tsirulnikova Nina V. , Godyaeva Maria M. , Uyutova Nadezhda I. , Baimler Ilya V. , Simakin Aleksander V. , Stepanova Eugenia V. , Gudkov Sergey V.
Published: July 2024

Due to widespread selenium deficiency in food the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a new Se(II)-containing organic chemical compound 2-iminoselenazolidin-4-ones (ISeA) in the form of a nanoscale associate (1–5 nm) solution for Swiss chard and komatsuna plants biofortification. Application of the chosen substance as a foliar treatment (2 mg·L−1) and as an additive to a hydroponic nutrient solution (10 mg·L−1) was performed. Both cultures had a high level of Se absorption, distribution and accumulation in leaves two or more times greater than in petioles. Se content in chard petioles (15 mg·L−1) when applying ISeA as a component of the nutrient solution exceeded the accumulation of Se during foliar treatment (9.6 mg·L−1) and the same trend in the komatsuna leaves was observed. When applying ISeA to the nutrient solution, an increase in komatsuna and chard biomass was seen at 36 and 68% and for leaf treatment by 21 and 45%, respectively. For komatsuna and chard an increase in the ratio of dry to fresh weight was also observed to be 27 and 26%, and for foliar treatment—0 and 16%, respectively. Treatments led to increase in chard plants height (7–17%), enlargement of leaves (19–42%), a rise in photosynthetic pigments (20–60%) and anthocyanin (2.9 and 2.2 times) concentration, and for komatsuna—the multiplication of leaves number (28%) and their surface area (27–29%) as well as a rise in the concentration of anthocyanin (1.0 and 1.6 times) with foliar treatment and nutrient solution enrichment.
Effects of Nitrogen Application and Planting Density Interaction on the Silique-Shattering Resistance and Yield of Direct-Seeding Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) in Sichuan
Authors: Luo Yuqin , Jiang Huayu , Hu Yue , Liu Li , Ghaffor Kamran , Javed Hafiz Hassan , Peng Xiao , Guo Xiang , Wu Yongcheng
Published: July 2024

Rapeseed siliques easily shatter after ripening, resulting in a significant amount of grain loss, which delimits the development of rapeseed machine harvest. However, the effect of nitrogen (N) and density interaction on the characteristics of rape siliques and shattering resistance index is still vague. During the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 growing seasons, we selected the Jiayou No. 5 rapeseed variety and set three N application levels (N1: 90 kg ha−1, N2: 180 kg ha−1, N3: 270 kg ha−1) and two density treatments (M1: 150,000 plants ha−1, M2: 300,000 plants ha−1) to research the effects of N and density interaction on morphological indexes, physiological indexes, shatter resistance index and yield of direct-seeding rapeseed siliques. The silique shatter resistance index, silique’s length, weight, moisture content, silique shell’s weight, thickness, lignin content, cellulose content and phenylalaninase (PAL) activity all increased first and then decreased with the increase in the N application rate; the N2 treatment increased by 18.38% and 26.92%, respectively, compared to the N1 and N3 treatments; 3.65%, 2.48%; 6.70%, 3.58%; 20.46%, 18.33%; 5.97%, 5.96%; 8.82%, 9.60%; 9.12%, 19.90%; 43.85%, 69%; 2.10%, 11.04%. Compared with the M1 treatment, the silique shatter resistance index, silique’s length, weight, moisture content, silique shell’s weight, thickness, lignin content, cellulose content and PAL activity were lower under M2 treatment. Correlation analysis demonstrated that the silique’s length, water content, silique shell’s weight, thickness, lignin content, cellulose content and PAL activity were significantly positively correlated with the silique shatter resistance index. Therefore, this study shows that N2M1 treatment can carry off synergy between silique shatter resistance and yield.
In Vitro Embryos of Romosinuano and Tropical Milking Cattle during Three Seasons in Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: Rosales-Martínez Froylan , Becerril-Pérez Carlos Miguel , Rosendo-Ponce Adalberto , Riaño-Gaya Alberto , Cortez-Romero César , Gallegos-Sánchez Jaime , Romo-García Salvador
Published: July 2024

One of the main factors that influences the fertility of cattle in grazing systems in hot tropical climates is heat stress. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of season, breed, hormonal and physiological condition on the quantity and quality of cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) and embryos produced in vitro, from Romosinuano (RM) and Tropical Milking (TM) donors. Three ovum pick-up and in vitro fertilization (OPU-IVF) were performed, one per season: hot dry (HD; 10, 10), hot humid (HH; 9, 9) and fresh dry (FD; 7, 10) in RM and LT donors. Serum levels of cortisol, insulin and glucose were measured, in addition to heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR) and rectal temperature (RT). Effect of season x genotype interaction (p ≤ 0.05) was observed in all COC variables and only in cleavage embryos (CLI) (p ≤ 0.05). Body weight (BW) affected all COC variables (p ≤ 0.01), except unviable (UNV) although affected degenerated embryos (DEG) (p ≤ 0.01) and total blastocysts (BLAST) (p ≤ 0.01). Cow age only affected viable COCs (VIAB) (p ≤ 0.05), code one blastocysts (BC1) and BLAST (p ≤ 0.01). Cortisol affected total COCs (COCsT), VIAB and total matured in vitro (TMIV) (p ≤ 0.01), as well as CLI, BC1 (p ≤ 0.01) and BLAST (p ≤ 0.05). Insulin affected COCsT (p ≤ 0.01), UNV (p ≤ 0.05), denuded oocytes (DE) (p ≤ 0.01), BC1 and code two blastocysts (BC2) (p ≤ 0.01). Glucose affected all COC variables (p ≤ 0.01), except UNV and all embryo variables except BC2. HR affected COCsT, DE, TMIV (p ≤ 0.01), CLI, BLAST and DEG (p ≤ 0.05). RR affected COCsT, UNV, VIAB, CLI (p ≤ 0.05), BC1, BLAST and DEG (p ≤ 0.01). RT only affected DE, VIAB (p ≤ 0.01) and BLAST (p ≤ 0.05). The seasonal climatic year variation of Veracruz and changes in physiological and hormonal variables have diverse effects on the cumulus–oocyte complexes and embryos produced by RM and TM donors.
Comprehensive Metagenomic Analysis of Veterinary Probiotics in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Kerek Ádám , Román István László , Szabó Ábel , Papp Márton , Bányai Krisztián , Kardos Gábor , Kaszab Eszter , Bali Krisztina , Makrai László , Jerzsele Ákos
Published: July 2024

Probiotics are widely used in broiler chickens to support the gut microbiome, gut health, and to reduce the amount of antibiotics used. Despite their benefits, there is concern over their ability to carry and spread antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), posing a significant public health risk. This study utilized next-generation sequencing to investigate ARGs in probiotics approved for poultry, focusing on their potential to be transferred via mobile genetic elements such as plasmids and phages. We examined the gut microbiome and resistome changes in 60 broiler chickens over their rearing period, correlating these changes with different probiotic treatments. Specific resistance mechanisms against critically important antibiotics were identified, including genes related to fluoroquinolone resistance and peptide antibiotic resistance. We also found genes with significant relevance to public health (aadK, AAC(6′)-Ii) and multiple drug-resistance genes (vmlR, ykkC, ykkD, msrC, clbA, eatAv). Only one phage-encoded gene (dfrA43) was detected, with no evidence of plasmid or mobile genetic element transmission. Additionally, metagenomic analysis of fecal samples showed no significant changes corresponding to time or diet across groups. Our findings highlight the potential risks associated with the use of probiotics in poultry, particularly regarding the carriage of ARGs. It is crucial to conduct further research into the molecular genetics of probiotics to develop strategies that mitigate the risk of resistance gene transfer in agriculture, ensuring the safe and effective use of probiotics in animal husbandry.
Stability Analysis of a Fractional-Order African Swine Fever Model with Saturation Incidence
Authors: Shi Ruiqing , Zhang Yihong
Published: July 2024

This article proposes and analyzes a fractional-order African Swine Fever model with saturation incidence. Firstly, the existence and uniqueness of a positive solution is proven. Secondly, the basic reproduction number and the sufficient conditions for the existence of two equilibriums are obtained. Thirdly, the local and global stability of disease-free equilibrium is studied using the LaSalle invariance principle. Next, some numerical simulations are conducted based on the Adams-type predictor–corrector method to verify the theoretical results, and sensitivity analysis is performed on some parameters. Finally, discussions and conclusions are presented. The theoretical results show that the value of the fractional derivative α will affect both the coordinates of the equilibriums and the speed at which the equilibriums move towards stabilization. When the value of α becomes larger or smaller, the stability of the equilibriums will be changed, which shows the difference between the fractional-order systems and the classical integer-order system.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Modified Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Plates for Treating Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture and Medial Patellar Luxation in Small-Breed Dogs
Authors: Jeong Eunbin , Jeon Youngjin , Kim Taewan , Lee Dongbin , Roh Yoonho
Published: July 2024

In small-breed dogs with concurrent cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) and medial patellar luxation (MPL), correcting both disorders is are essential for restoring normal gait. However, the previously described surgical treatment, using two osteotomy technique, poses a high risk of fracture and instability. Addressing CCLR and MPL with a single osteotomy and implant was considered superior to the conventional method. Therefore, a pre-contoured modified tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (PCM–TPLO) plate facilitating medial shifting of the proximal tibia was developed. We compared postoperative alignment and strength between this novel plate group and a conventional tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) plate group using eight small-breed dog cadavers each. Additionally, we investigated the potential of the novel plate as an alternative to tibial tuberosity transposition. Postoperative alignment and strength were assessed through radiographs and mechanical testing. Measurements including tibial plateau angle, mechanical medial proximal tibial angle, and number of screws within the joint were also analyzed. There were no significant differences in all measured parameters. For the novel plate, the medial displacement ratio of the proximal tibia was confirmed to be approximately 30%, and the result was thought to be appropriate. These findings suggest that the PCM–TPLO plate could be a promising alternative for treating concurrent CCLR and MPL in small-breed dogs.
Modeling Habitat Suitability of Snow Leopards in Yanchiwan National Reserve, China
Authors: Ismaili Rashid Rasool Rabbani , Peng Xiaoxu , Li Yibin , Ali Arshad , Ahmad Tariq , Rahman Anees Ur , Ahmad Shahid , Shi Kun
Published: July 2024

Snow leopards (Panthera uncia) are elusive predators inhabiting high-altitude and mountainous rugged habitats. The current study was conducted in the Yanchiwan National Nature Reserve, Gansu Province, China, to assess the habitat suitability of snow leopards and identify key environmental factors inducing their distribution. Field data collected between 2019 and 2022 through scat sampling and camera trapping techniques provided insights into snow leopard habitat preferences. Spatial distribution and cluster analyses show distinct hotspots of high habitat suitability, mostly concentrated near mountainous landscapes. While altitude remains a critical determinant, with places above 3300 m showing increased habitat suitability, other factors such as soil type, human footprint, forest cover, prey availability, and human disturbance also play important roles. These variables influence ecological dynamics and are required to assess and manage snow leopard habitats. The MaxEnt model has helped us to better grasp these issues, particularly the enormous impact of human activities on habitat suitability. The current study highlights the importance of altitude in determining snow leopard habitat preferences and distribution patterns in the reserve. Furthermore, the study underscores the significance of considering elevation in conservation planning and management strategies for snow leopards, particularly in mountainous regions. By combining complete environmental data with innovative modeling tools, this study not only improves local conservation efforts but also serves as a model for similar wildlife conservation initiatives around the world. By understanding the environmental factors driving snow leopard distribution, conservation efforts can be more efficiently directed to ensure the long-term survival of this endangered species. This study provides valuable insights for evidence-based conservation efforts to safeguard the habitats of snow leopards amidst emerging anthropogenic pressure and environmental fluctuations.
Histological and Histopathological Features of the Third Metacarpal/Tarsal Parasagittal Groove and Proximal Phalanx Sagittal Groove in Thoroughbred Horses with Racing History
Authors: Lin Szu-Ting , Foote Alastair K. , Bolas Nicholas M. , Sargan David R. , Murray Rachel C.
Published: July 2024

Information regarding the histopathology of the proximal phalanx (P1) sagittal groove in racehorses is limited. Twenty-nine cadaver limbs from nine Thoroughbred racehorses in racing/race-training underwent histological examination. Histological specimens of the third metacarpal/metatarsal (MC3/MT3) parasagittal grooves and P1 sagittal grooves were graded for histopathological findings in hyaline cartilage (HC), calcified cartilage (CC), and subchondral plate and trabecular bone (SCB/TB) regions. Histopathological grades were compared between (1) fissure and non-fissure locations observed in a previous study and (2) dorsal, middle, and palmar/plantar aspects. (1) HC, CC, and SCB/TB grades were more severe in fissure than non-fissure locations in the MC3/MT3 parasagittal groove (p < 0.001). SCB/TB grades were more severe in fissure than non-fissure locations in the P1 sagittal groove (p < 0.001). (2) HC, CC, and SCB/TB grades including SCB collapse were more severe in the palmar/plantar than the middle aspect of the MC3/MT3 parasagittal groove (p < 0.001). SCB/TB grades including SCB collapse were more severe in the dorsal and middle than the palmar/plantar aspect of the P1 sagittal groove (p < 0.001). Histopathology in the SCB/TB region including bone fatigue injury was related to fissure locations, the palmar/plantar MC3/MT3 parasagittal groove, and the dorsal P1 sagittal groove.
Additive and Dominance Genome-Wide Association Studies Reveal the Genetic Basis of Heterosis Related to Growth Traits of Duhua Hybrid Pigs
Authors: Qiao Jiakun , Li Kebiao , Miao Na , Xu Fangjun , Han Pingping , Dai Xiangyu , Abdelkarim Omnia Fathy , Zhu Mengjin , Zhao Yunxiang
Published: July 2024

Heterosis has been extensively used for pig genetic breeding and production, but the genetic basis of heterosis remains largely elusive. Crossbreeding between commercial and native breeds provides a good model to parse the genetic basis of heterosis. This study uses Duhua hybrid pigs, a crossbreed of Duroc and Liangguang small spotted pigs, as materials to explore the genetic basis underlying heterosis related to growth traits at the genomic level. The mid-parent heterosis (MPH) analysis showed heterosis of this Duhua offspring on growth traits. In this study, we examined the impact of additive and dominance effects on 100 AGE (age adjusted to 100 kg) and 100 BF (backfat thickness adjusted to 100 kg) of Duhua hybrid pigs. Meanwhile, we successfully identified SNPs associated with growth traits through both additive and dominance GWASs (genome-wide association studies). These findings will facilitate the subsequent in-depth studies of heterosis in the growth traits of Duhua pigs.
Characterization of the Charge Heterogeneity of a Monoclonal Antibody That Binds to Both Cation Exchange and Anion Exchange Columns under the Same Binding Conditions
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Ching , Zhang Jingming , Tang Liangjie , Huang Cheng-Yen , Shen Yang , Matathia Alice , Qian Jun , Parekh Babita Saxena
Published: July 2024

Therapeutic antibodies play an important role in the public healthcare system to treat patients with a variety of diseases. Protein characterization using an array of analytical tools provides in-depth information for drug quality, safety, efficacy, and the further understanding of the molecule. A therapeutic antibody candidate MAB1 exhibits unique binding properties to both cation and anion exchange columns at neutral pH. This uniqueness disrupts standard purification processes and necessitates adjustments in manufacturing. This study identifies that the charge heterogeneity of MAB1 is primarily due to the N-terminal cyclization of glutamine to pyroglutamine and, to a lesser extent, succinimide intermediate, deamidation, and C-terminal lysine. Using three approaches, i.e., deferential chemical labeling, H/D exchange, and molecular modeling, the binding to anion exchange resins is attributed to negatively charged patches on the antibody’s surface, involving specific carboxylic acid residues. The methodologies shown here can be extended to study protein binding orientation in column chromatography.
Quantization of the Rank Two Heisenberg–Virasoro Algebra
Authors: Chen Xue
Published: July 2024

Quantum groups occupy a significant position in both mathematics and physics, contributing to progress in these fields. It is interesting to obtain new quantum groups by the quantization of Lie bialgebras. In this paper, the quantization of the rank two Heisenberg–Virasoro algebra by Drinfel’d twists is presented, Lie bialgebra structures of which have been investigated by the authors recently.
Analysis of Bullying in Physical Education: Descriptive Study of Spanish Adolescents
Authors: Benítez-Sillero Juan de Dios , Corredor-Corredor Diego , Morente-Montero Álvaro , Murillo-Moraño Javier , Armada-Crespo José Manuel
Published: July 2024

Physical education classes can be a place where both bullying and harassment take place, and a powerful strategy is needed to prevent it. The present study analyses bullying and students’ behaviour as active or passive observers in a general educational context and physical education lessons. A sample of 958 adolescents aged 12 to 18 was studied. A questionnaire was used to analyse the victimisation and the bullying and behaviour observed. The results showed a lower incidence rate than that observed in other studies in physical education classes with a higher level of perpetration by boys than by girls and a more active rejection of aggression by victims and girls. On the other hand, passive attitudes were greater among perpetrators and boys. The observers’ attitudes were similar in both contexts. The scenario in which this subject takes place could reduce the risk of these phenomena occurring. Therefore, physical education teachers should analyse these behaviours and intervene, especially when creating awareness in boys.
Shear Transfer in Concrete Joints with Non-Metallic Reinforcement
Authors: Zierul Lore , Baumgärtel Enrico , Sandmann David , Marx Steffen
Published: July 2024

The use of non-metallic reinforcement can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the construction sector. Mixed structures made out of steel and non-metallic reinforcement should be avoided due to the risk of galvanic corrosion. So far, researchers have been focusing on the load-bearing behavior in the longitudinal direction of the fibers. In this study, the behavior of the fibers in the non-metallic reinforcements is analyzed perpendicular to the fiber orientation. Therefore, a uniaxial shear test on a single bar (uniaxial shear test), as well as a series of push-off tests with reinforcements embedded in the concrete, was carried out. For both experiments, bars made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) and glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRPs) were investigated. In order to analyze the influence of non-metallic reinforcement in the joint, specimens without reinforcement have been tested as well. Also, the joint roughness and reinforcement ratio of the concrete joint was varied in the tests. The determined transverse shear strengths for the single bar exceed the values of the producer. For the push-off test, high standard deviations occurred, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Nevertheless, it is shown that increasing the amount of reinforcement leads to higher ultimate forces. The presented study emphasizes the necessity of further studies of the shear transfer in concrete joints.
Upper Bound Analysis of Two-Layered Slopes Subjected to Seismic Excitations Using the Layer-Wise Summation Method
Authors: Jin Lili , Liao Youfang
Published: July 2024

Due to natural sedimentation and artificial filling, slopes exhibit heterogeneity in the form of multi-layer soils, namely, layered slopes. Compared with homogenous slopes, the failure mechanism of layered slopes is more complex owing to the different shear strengths of each soil layer. Therefore, it is of great importance to gain insight into the stability of layered slopes. In this study, the upper bound theorem of limit analysis incorporated with a pseudo-static approach is utilized to investigate the seismic stability of two kinds of two-layered slopes: one with a stiff lower soil layer and the other with a weak lower soil layer. Three failure patterns, namely face failure, toe failure and base failure, are taken into account. A depth coefficient (Δ) is introduced to describe the distribution of two soil layers. The layer-wise summation method is adopted to calculate the safety factor and yield acceleration coefficient more conveniently. Based on Newmark’s method, the earthquake-induced horizontal displacement is estimated. The calculated results are validated by comparisons with published literature and the numerical method in terms of safety factor, critical failure surface and yield acceleration coefficient. The results show that the depth coefficient has a significant influence on the failure mechanism of two-layered slopes by determining whether the stability of upper-layered soil is dominant in the overall slope stability or not. Inaccurately identifying the failure patterns will overestimate the seismic performance of two-layered slopes in the aspects of safety factor and yield acceleration coefficient, leading to an underestimation of earthquake-induced horizontal displacement.
Canine Cancer Diagnostics by X-ray Diffraction of Claws
Authors: Alekseev Alexander , Yuk Delvin , Lazarev Alexander , Labelle Daizie , Mourokh Lev , Lazarev Pavel
Published: July 2024

We report the results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements of the dogs’ claws and show the feasibility of using this approach for early, non-invasive cancer detection. The obtained two-dimensional XRD patterns can be described by Fourier coefficients, which were calculated for the radial and circular (angular) directions. We analyzed these coefficients using the supervised learning algorithm, which implies optimization of the random forest classifier by using samples from the training group and following the calculation of mean cancer probability per patient for the blind dataset. The proposed algorithm achieved a balanced accuracy of 85% and ROC-AUC of 0.91 for a blind group of 68 dogs. The transition from samples to patients additionally improved the ROC-AUC by 10%. The best specificity and sensitivity values for 68 patients were 97.4% and 72.4%, respectively. We also found that the structural parameter (biomarker) most important for the diagnostics is the intermolecular distance.
A Green Synthesis of 3-Selanyl-Isoflavones via Lipase Mediated Selenylation/Cyclization of Enaminones
Authors: Kan Wenbo , Piao Yuming , Song Wenning , Chen Xiaoxuan , Wang Chunyu , Wang Zhi , Wang Lei
Published: July 2024

Herein, a green biocatalytic approach using lipase as a catalyst has been developed for the synthesis of 3-selanyl-isoflavones through the selenylation/cyclization of 2-hydroxyphenyl enaminones and diphenyl di-selenide under mild conditions. The environmentally friendly method reached high yields of 87–95% in a short time at 30 °C, with 17 examples of 3-selanyl-isoflavones successfully prepared. Furthermore, we have investigated the possible mechanisms underlying this reaction.
Targeting Hdm2 and Hdm4 in Anticancer Drug Discovery: Implications for Checkpoint Inhibitor Immunotherapy
Authors: Ntwasa Monde
Published: July 2024

Hdm2 and Hdm4 are structural homologs that regulate the tumor suppressor protein, p53. Since some tumors express wild-type p53, Hdm2 and Hdm4 are plausible targets for anticancer drugs, especially in tumors that express wild-type p53. Hdm4 can enhance and antagonize the activity of Tp53, thereby playing a critical role in the regulation of p53’s activity and stability. Moreover, Hdm2 and Hdm4 are overexpressed in many cancers, some expressing wild-type Tp53. Due to experimental evidence suggesting that the activation of wild-type Tp53 can augment the antitumor activity by some checkpoint inhibitors, drugs targeting Hdm2 and Hdm4 may be strong candidates for combining with checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy. However, other evidence suggests that the overexpression of Hdm2 and Hdm4 may indicate poor response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. These findings require careful examination and scrutiny. In this article, a comprehensive analysis of the Hdm2/Hdm4 partnership will be conducted. Furthermore, this article will address the current progress of drug development regarding molecules that target the Hdm2/Hdm4/Tp53 partnership.
Adult Human Brain Tissue Cultures to Study NeuroHIV
Authors: Van Duyne Rachel , Irollo Elena , Lin Angel , Johnson James A. , Guillem Alain M. , O’Brien Erick V. , Merja Laura , Nash Bradley , Jackson Joshua G. , Sarkar Atom , Klase Zachary A. , Meucci Olimpia
Published: July 2024

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) persist under antiretroviral therapy as a complex pathology that has been difficult to study in cellular and animal models. Therefore, we generated an ex vivo human brain slice model of HIV-1 infection from surgically resected adult brain tissue. Brain slice cultures processed for flow cytometry showed >90% viability of dissociated cells within the first three weeks in vitro, with parallel detection of astrocyte, myeloid, and neuronal populations. Neurons within brain slices showed stable dendritic spine density and mature spine morphologies in the first weeks in culture, and they generated detectable activity in multi-electrode arrays. We infected cultured brain slices using patient-matched CD4+ T-cells or monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) that were exposed to a GFP-expressing R5-tropic HIV-1 in vitro. Infected slice cultures expressed viral RNA and developed a spreading infection up to 9 days post-infection, which were significantly decreased by antiretrovirals. We also detected infected myeloid cells and astrocytes within slices and observed minimal effect on cellular viability over time. Overall, this human-centered model offers a promising resource to study the cellular mechanisms contributing to HAND (including antiretroviral toxicity, substance use, and aging), infection of resident brain cells, and new neuroprotective therapeutics.
Study of Interfacial Properties of Anionic–Nonionic Surfactants Based on Succinic Acid Derivatives via Molecular Dynamics Simulations and the IGMH Method
Authors: Zhang Wannian , Luo Feng , Gao Zhigang , Chi Haizhu , Wang Jinlong , Yu Fang , He Yu-Peng
Published: July 2024

Surfactants are widely used in fields such as oil recovery and flotation. The properties and mechanisms of surfactants can be effectively studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Herein, the aggregation behavior of surfactants was studied at the oil–water interface by MD simulation, and the micro-morphology of surfactants was analyzed under a low concentration and saturated state at the oil–water interface, respectively. The visualization results of the MD simulation showed that DTOA was saturated at the oil–water interface at 120 surfactant molecules, whereas 160 surfactant molecules were required for BEMA. In addition, the effect of surfactant concentration on the interfacial thickness and hydrogen bond distribution was studied, with the inflection point of hydrogen bond distribution identified as a characteristic parameter for surfactant saturation at the oil–water interface. The aggregation behavior of their hydrophobic and hydrophilic chains at the oil–water interface was qualitatively assessed using order parameters. Finally, the aggregation state of surfactants in salt-containing systems was studied, and it was found that the surfactants could effectively adsorb magnesium ions and calcium ions at the oil–water interface. However, the curve of the number of hydrogen bonds varies greatly, with a possible reason being that BEMA has a different coordination manner with diverse metal ions. This study provides some original insights into both the theoretical study and practical application of anionic and nonionic surfactants.
Values and Diagnostic Accuracy of Electrodiagnostic Findings in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Based on Age, Gender, and Diabetes
Authors: Abuzinadah Ahmad R.
Published: July 2024

Background: Appropriate cut-off values and diagnostic accuracy (DA) [sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV)] of electrodiagnostic findings for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) based on age, gender, and diabetes mellitus (DM) were not reported. Methods: In a retrospective study, we described the latency difference values and DA of comparative latency studies COLS [median to ulnar through palmar difference (palmdiff) and ring difference study (ringdiff), median to radial through thumb difference study (thumbdiff), and combined sensory index (CSI)] among non-CTS and CTS groups based on age, DM, and gender. Results: We included 632 patients (228 without CTS and 404 with CTS). For PPV > 90% and NPV > 50%, the best cut-offs among patients without DM, were 0.5ms, 0.8–1 ms, 1.4 ms, and 2 ms for palmdiff, thumbdiff, CSI (age < 60 years), and CSI (age > 60 years), respectively. The best cut-offs among patients with DM were 0.5 ms, 1.2 ms, 0.8 ms, 1.0–1.2 ms, 1.8 ms, 1–1.2 ms, 3.0 ms, and 3.5 ms for palmdiff (age < 50 years), palmdiff (age > 50 years), thumbdiff (age < 40 years), thumbdiff (age 40–59 years), thumbdiff (age > 60 years), CSI (age < 50 years), CSI (age 50–59 years), and CSI (age > 60 years), respectively. Conclusion: The cut-off values of COLS to confirm CTS and their DA were different according to age and DM.