bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicellular growth as a dynamic network of cells
Authors: Nanda Piyush , Barrere Julien , LaBar Thomas , Murray Andrew W.
Published: November 2023

Cell division without cell separation produces multicellular clusters in budding yeast. Two fundamental characteristics of these clusters are their size (the number of cells per cluster) and cellular composition: the fractions of cells with different phenotypes. However, we do not understand how different cellular features quantitatively influence these two phenotypes. Using cells as nodes and links between mother and daughter cells as edges, we model cluster growth and breakage by varying three parameters: the cell division rate, the rate at which intercellular connections break, and the kissing number (the maximum number of connections to one cell). We find that the kissing number sets the maximum possible cluster size. Below this limit, the ratio of the cell division rate to the connection breaking rate determines the cluster size. If links have a constant probability of breaking per unit time, the probability that a link survives decreases exponentially with its age. Modeling this behavior recapitulates experimental data. We then use this framework to examine synthetic, differentiating clusters with two cell types, faster-growing germ cells and their somatic derivatives. The fraction of clusters that contain both cell types increases as either of two parameters increase: the kissing number and difference between the growth rate of germ and somatic cells. In a population of clusters, the variation in cellular composition is inversely correlated (r2=0.87) with the average fraction of somatic cells in clusters. Our results show how a small number of cellular features can control the phenotypes of multicellular clusters that were potentially the ancestors of more complex forms of multicellular development, organization, and reproduction.
A diet-dependent host metabolite shapes the gut microbiota to protect from autoimmunity
Authors: Alexander Margaret , Upadhyay Vaibhav , Rock Rachel , Ramirez Lorenzo , Trepka Kai , Puchalska Patrycja , Orellana Diego , Ang Qi Yan , Whitty Caroline , Turnbaugh Jessie A. , Tian Yuan , Dumlao Darren , Nayak Renuka , Patterson Andrew , Newman John C. , Crawford Peter A. , Turnbaugh Peter J.
Published: November 2023

Diet can protect from autoimmune disease; however, whether diet acts via the host and/or microbiome remains unclear. Here, we use a ketogenic diet (KD) as a model to dissect these complex interactions. A KD rescued the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of multiple sclerosis in a microbiota-dependent fashion. Dietary supplementation with a single KD-dependent host metabolite (β-hydroxybutyrate, βHB) rescued EAE whereas transgenic mice unable to produce βHB in the intestine developed more severe disease. Transplantation of the βHB-shaped gut microbiota was protective.Lactobacillussequence variants were associated with decreased T helper 17 (Th17) cell activationin vitro. Finally, we isolated aL. murinusstrain that protected from EAE, which was phenocopied by theLactobacillusmetabolite indole lactic acid. Thus, diet alters the immunomodulatory potential of the gut microbiota by shifting host metabolism, emphasizing the utility of taking a more integrative approach to study diet-host-microbiome interactions.
Sex and Education Modify the Association Between Subjective Cognitive Decline and Amyloid Pathology
Authors: Bolton Corey J. , Khan Omair A. , Liu Dandan , Wilhoite Sydney , Dumitrescu Logan , Peterson Amalia , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Hohman Timothy J. , Jefferson Angela L. , Gifford Katherine A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) may be an early risk factor for dementia, particularly in highly educated individuals and women. This study examined the effect of education and sex on the association between SCD and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) biomarkers in non-demented older adults.

Method

Vanderbilt Memory and Aging Project participants free of clinical dementia or stroke (n=156, 72±6 years, 37% mild cognitive impairment, 33% female) completed fasting lumbar puncture, SCD assessment, and Wide Range Achievement Test-III Reading subtest to assess reading level at baseline as a a proxy for educational quality. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for AD (β-amyloid42(Aβ42), Aβ42/40 ratio, phosphorylated tau (p-tau), tau, and neurofilament light (NfL)) were analyzed in batch. Linear mixed effects models related SCD to CSF AD biomarkers and follow-up models assessedSCD x sex, SCD x reading level, andSCD x educationinteractions on AD biomarkers.

Result

In main effect models, higher SCD was associated with lower Aβ42 and Aβ42/40 ratio (p-values<0.004). SCD was not associated with tau, p-tau, or NfL levels (p-values>0.38). SCD score interacted with sex on Aβ42/40 ratio (p=0.03) but no other biomarkers (p-values>0.10). In stratified models, higher SCD was associated with lower Aβ42/40 ratio in men (p=0.0003) but not in women (p=0.48). SCD score interacted with education on Aβ42 (p=0.005) and Aβ42/40 ratio (p=0.001) such that higher education was associated with a stronger negative association between SCD and amyloid levels. NoSCD score x reading levelinteraction was found (p-values> 0.51) though significant associations between SCD and amyloid markers were seen in the higher reading level group (p-values<0.004) but not the lower reading level group (p-values>0.12) when stratified by a median split in reading level.

Conclusion

Among community-dwelling older adults free of clinical dementia, higher SCD was associated with greater cerebral amyloid accumulation, one of the earliest pathological AD changes. SCD appears most useful in detecting early AD-related brain changes in men and individuals with higher quantity and quality of education. SCD was not associated with CSF markers of tau pathology or neurodegeneration. These findings suggest that considering sex and education is important when assessing SCD in older adults.
Prognostic Implications of Changes in Total Physiological Atherosclerotic Burden in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease –A Serial Quantitative Flow Ratio Study
Authors: Chu Jiapeng , Yuan Deqiang , Lai Yan , Ye Wen , Liu Lei , Lin Hao , Ping Fan , Zhu Guoqi , Chen Fei , Yao Yian , Yan Wenwen , Liu Xuebo
Published: November 2023

The association between coronary physiological progression and clinical outcomes has not been investigated. A total of 421 patients who underwent serial coronary angiography at least 6 months apart were included. Total physiological atherosclerotic burden was characterized by sum of quantitative flow ratio in 3 epicardial vessels (3V-QFR). The relationships of the 3V-QFR and its longitudinal change (Δ3V-QFR) with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were explored. 3V-QFR values derived from follow-up angiograms were slightly lower compared to baseline (2.85 [2.77, 2.90] vs. 2.86 [2.80, 2.90],p< 0.001). The median Δ3V-QFR value was −0.01 (−0.05, 0.02). The multivariable models demonstrated follow-up 3V-QFR or Δ3V-QFR were independently associated with MACE (bothp< 0.05). Patients with both low follow-up 3V-QFR (≤ 2.78) and low Δ3V-QFR (≤ −0.05) presented 3 times higher risk of MACE than those without (hazard ratio: 2.953, 95% confidence interval 1.428-6.104,p= 0.003). Furthermore, adding patient-level 3V-QFR and Δ3V-QFR to clinical model significantly improved the predictability for MACE. In conclusion, total physiological atherosclerotic burden and its progression can provide incremental prognostic value over clinical characteristics, supporting the use of coronary physiology in the evaluation of disease progression and for the identification of vulnerable patients.
Reprogramming early cortical astroglia into neurons with hallmarks of fast-spiking parvalbumin-positive interneurons by phospho-site deficient Ascl1
Authors: Marichal Nicolás , Péron Sophie , Beltran Arranz Ana , Galante Chiara , Scarante Franciele Franco , Wiffen Rebecca , Schuurmans Carol , Karow Marisa , Gascón Sergio , Berninger Benedikt
Published: November 2023

Cellular reprogramming of mammalian glia to an induced neuronal fate holds potential for restoring diseased brain circuits. While the proneural factor Ascl1 is widely used for neuronal reprogramming, in the early postnatal mouse cortex Ascl1 fails to induce glia-to-neuron conversion, instead promoting proliferation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPC). Since Ascl1 activity is post-translationally regulated, here we investigated the consequences of mutating six serine phospho-acceptor sites to alanine (Ascl1SA6) on lineage reprogrammingin vivo. Ascl1SA6 exhibited increased neurogenic activity in glia of the early postnatal mouse cortex, an effect enhanced by co-expression of Bcl2. Genetic fate-mapping revealed that most induced neurons originated from astrocytes while only a few derived from OPCs. Intriguingly, many Ascl1SA6/Bcl2-induced neurons expressed parvalbumin and were capable of high-frequency action potential firing. Our study demonstrates authentic conversion of astroglia into neurons featuring subclass hallmarks of cortical interneurons, advancing our scope of engineering neuronal fates in the brain.
Decellularized Banana Leaves: Eco-Friendly Scaffolds for Cell-Based Seafood
Authors: Sarkarat Reyhaneh , Banavar Amiti , Amirvaresi Arian , Li Xinxin , Nguyen Cuong , Kaplan David L. , Nitin Nitin , Ovissipour Reza
Published: November 2023

Cellular agriculture, as an emerging food production system, holds potential to address sustainability, food security, and agricultural resilience. Within the cell-based meat supply chain, one of the key steps is scaffolding. In this study, we assessed decellularized banana leaves, various coating materials, and different cell seeding strategies to determine their effects on cell viability, cell growth, cell alignment, and the response of the materials to thermal processing. The efficiency of decellularization was verified through DNA quantification, which decreased from 445 ng/mg in fresh banana leaves to non-detectable levels in the decellularized samples. This was further confirmed by FTIR and PCA modeling. Cell viability exceeded 98% on uncoated, soy-coated, and gelatin-coated samples of the decellularized banana leaves. Alignment of cells on gelatin-coated samples was the highest among the samples, with a dominant orientation of 65.8°, compared to soy-coated and uncoated samples with dominant orientations of 9.2° and −6.3°, respectively. In terms of quality attributes, the kinetics of shrinkage indicated that coating with soy and the presence of cells increased the activation energy due to the higher energy required for protein denaturation. Moreover, the kinetics of area changes in plain scaffolds without cells followed a first-order pattern, while with seeded cells a second-order pattern was followed. In summary, decellularized banana leaves present a sustainable and suitable biomaterial to support cells towards future needs related to meat production.
Robust dense‐field based copy‐move forgery localization using generic radial harmonic Fourier moment invariants
Authors: Atallah Asmaa M. , Mahmoud Imbaby I. , Ali Hanaa S.
Published: November 2023

As the importance of reliable multimedia content increases in today's society, image forensics is a growing field of research. The act of copying and pasting specific parts of an image, known as copy‐move forgery, may be utilized for illegal or unethical purposes. Just as with other vision‐related technologies, the accuracy of forensic analysis depends on having an appropriate image representation. Most existing feature extraction techniques do not accurately reflect the underlying image content leading to reduced performance. In this article, to detect the copy‐move forgery attack, the Generic Radial Harmonic Fourier Moment (GRHFM) is proposed for reliable and distinctive image representation. The algorithm has the ability to effectively manipulate the distribution of zeros to emphasize certain image regions. Additionally, the relationships between complex exponentials and trigonometric functions are exploited to efficiently compute and easily implement the transform kernels. The efficacy of the algorithm is illustrated through experiments on dense‐domain‐based matching patterns. Experimental results on five benchmarking databases prove the effectiveness of the proposed approach compared with the state‐of‐the‐art methods. According to the average scores, the proposed method demonstrates superior accuracy in overall localization performance. The F1 score, precision, and recall percentage values obtained are 92.5, 95.44, and 91.96, respectively. Robustness experiments on more challenging attacks are also conducted on FAU dataset. Results show that the proposed framework satisfies invariance to the various image variations, and thus an enhanced robustness compared to the previous methods. Moreover, the advantage of reasonable computational cost implies its potential use in real‐world forensic applications.
Synaptotagmin‐11 regulates immune functions of microglia in vivo
Authors: Zhang Feifan , Yang Dong , Li Jingchen , Du Cuilian , Sun Xinran , Li Wanru , Liu Fengwei , Yang Yiwei , Li Yuhong , Fu Lei , Li Rena , Zhang Claire Xi
Published: November 2023

Membrane trafficking pathways mediate key microglial activities such as cell migration, cytokine secretion, and phagocytosis. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. Previously, we found that synaptotagmin‐11 (Syt11), a non‐Ca2+‐binding Syt associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) and schizophrenia, inhibits cytokine release and phagocytosis in primary microglia. Here we reported the in vivo function of Syt11 in microglial immune responses using an inducible microglia‐specific Syt11‐conditional‐knockout (cKO) mouse strain. Syt11‐cKO resulted in activation of microglia and elevated mRNA levels of IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and iNOS in various brain regions under both resting state and LPS‐induced acute inflammation state in adult mice. In a PD mouse model generated by microinjection of preformed α‐synuclein fibrils into the striatum, a reduced number of microglia migrated toward the injection sites and an enhanced phagocytosis of α‐synuclein fibrils by microglia were found in Syt11‐cKO mice. To understand the molecular mechanism of Syt11 function, we identified its direct binding proteins vps10p‐tail‐interactor‐1a (vti1a) and vti1b. The linker domain of Syt11 interacted with both proteins and a peptide derived from it competitively inhibited the interaction of Syt11 with vti1a/vti1b in vitro and in cells. Importantly, application of this peptide induced more cytokine secretion in wild‐type microglia upon LPS treatment, phenocopying defects in Syt11 knockdown cells. Altogether, we propose that Syt11 inhibits microglial activation in vivo and regulates cytokine secretion through interactions with vti1a and vti1b.
How accurate are self‐evaluations of singing ability?
Authors: Yeom Daniel , Stead Kendall S. , Tan Yi Ting , McPherson Gary E. , Wilson Sarah J.
Published: November 2023

Research has shown that people inaccurately assess their own abilities on self‐report measures, including academic, athletic, and music ability. Evidence suggests this is also true for singing, with individuals either overestimating or underestimating their level of singing competency. In this paper, we present the Melbourne Singing Tool Questionnaire (MST‐Q), a brief 16‐item measure exploring people's self‐perceptions of singing ability and engagement with singing. Using a large sample of Australian twins (n = 996), we identified three latent factors underlying MST‐Q items and examined whether these factors were related to an objective phenotypic measure of singing ability. The three factors were identified as Personal Engagement, Social Engagement, and Self‐Evaluation. All factors were positively associated with objective singing performance, with the Self‐Evaluation factor yielding the strongest correlation (r = 0.66). Both the Self‐Evaluation factor and a single self‐report item of singing ability shared the same predictive strength. Contrary to expectations, our findings suggest that self‐evaluation strongly predicts singing ability, and this self‐evaluation is of higher predictive value than self‐reported engagement with music and singing.
Guide to the cultural geology of Youngstown, Ohio, USA
Authors: Hannibal Joseph T. , Petras Brigitte , Holstein Ann L. , McLean Colleen E.
Published: November 2023

The city of Youngstown, the county seat of Mahoning County, is situated along the Mahoning River in northeastern Ohio, USA. Its early industrial growth was due to the ready availability of iron ore, limestone, abundant forests, and coal, all used for production of iron and then steel during the last two centuries. Local Massillon sandstone and Vanport limestone from Ohio and western Pennsylvania were used to construct mansions and other structures in the nineteenth century. By the early 1900s, other stones including Berea sandstone from Ohio, and sedimentary, metamorphic, and intrusive igneous stones quarried at other sites in North America and Europe, were being utilized as dimension stone in Youngstown. This guide briefly reviews the geological and cultural setting of Youngstown, and describes the building, decorative, and monumental stones used for a variety of structures in downtown Youngstown, with emphasis on stone used for the exterior and interior of major structures. Sites include the Butler Institute of American Art, which is clad with marble and incorporates an assortment of other stone inside and outside of the complex, and St. Columba Cathedral, whose limestone is known commercially as Mankato (Kasota) stone and is full of fossil burrows, as well as a sampling of stones used in beautiful Oak Hill Cemetery.
Some cosmological consequences of higher dimensional Klein–Gordon–Rastall theory
Authors: Widianto Tegar Ari , Falah Ahmad Khoirul , Suroso Agus , Alatas Husin , Gunara Bobby Eka
Published: November 2023

Using dynamical system analysis, we investigate some cosmological consequences of Rastall gravity coupled to a scalar field (called the Klein–Gordon–Rastall theory) with exponential scalar potential turned on in higher dimensions. From the critical points of the autonomous equations, we can determine the dominant components of the energy density in different cosmic eras. We obtain a fixed point representing a scalar field-matter-dominated era which corresponds to either a late-time or past-time attractor depending on the parameters used. According to this point, the inflationary phase, corresponding to past-time attractors, is given by unstable nodes, whilst the dark energy era, corresponding to late-time attractors, is represented by stable nodes. In the inflationary sector, power-law inflation can still occur in this Klein–Gordon–Rastall cosmological model. On the other hand, in the late-time sector, we find a nontrivial interplay between a scalar field with an exponential potential and the non-conservative energy-momentum tensor of the non-relativistic matter field (baryonic-dark matter) in curved spacetime plays a role as the dark energy. Based on such features, the Klein–Gordon–Rastall cosmology could be a promising candidate for describing both the early and late-time universe.
A Review on the Use of Azolla Meal as a Feed Ingredient in Aquatic Animals’ Diets
Authors: Yohana Mpwaga Alatwinusa , Ray Gyan Watson , Yang Qihui , Tan Beiping , Chi Shuyan , Asase Amos , Shiyu Kou , Derrick Asare
Published: November 2023

The aquaculture industry’s insatiable demand for fishmeal has led to a price surge, prompting the search for a sustainable alternative protein source. Enter Azolla meal, a plant protein that could be a viable substitute for fishmeal. This cost-effective supplemental feed could be a game-changer for small-scale producers looking to expand their aquaculture production. Numerous experiments have been conducted on replacing fishmeals with Azolla meals in fish diets, and the results have sparked further research. This review delves into Azolla’s composition, comparing it to fishmeal in terms of proteins, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It also explores the value of employing Azolla in fish feeds and the various methods to mitigate its adverse effects through feed additives during the feed formulation. This review discusses the essential effects of Azolla meal on the growth of various fish species, including tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), catfish (Clarias batrachus), thai silver barb (Barbonymus gonionotus), common carp (Cyprinus carpio), rohu (Labeo rohita), and catla (Catla catla) and mrigal (Cirrhinus cirrhosus). Azolla’s potential extends beyond its use as a fish feed ingredient. It could also be utilized for bioremediation to remediate hazardous chemicals in water resulting from aquaculture, industrial, and household waste. Further research is needed to optimize the use of Azolla meal in fish feed and to develop cost-effective production methods. This review is a valuable resource for farmers looking to maximize profit when using Azolla in aquafeed and potentially sustainably enhance aquaculture production. With its promising potential, the Azolla meal could be the key to meeting the growing demand for fishmeals while reducing the industry’s environmental impact.
Poisoning patterns and factors associated with treatment outcomes among patients: A case study of Kiambu county hospitals, Kenya
Authors: Githinji James Maina , Mungoma Michael , Fossa Kinara , Ngugi Jesse , Ondiek Samwel , Juttla Prabhjot , Odongo Alfred Owino , Ndiritu Moses , Mwancha-Kwasa Magoma
Published: November 2023

Background

Rising poisoning incidences worldwide, primarily in developing countries, remain ambiguous due to paucity of data and poison centres. This study evaluates patterns and factors causing poor outcomes in Kiambu County, Kenya.

Methods

A records-based retrospective cross-sectional study of poisoning cases who presented to nine facilities between June 2015 and July 2020 was conducted. The data collected was analysed through descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression using STATA version 13.

Results

Kiambu county has a minimum prevalence of poisoning of 3.2%. A total of 434 cases were studied. Most cases (85.5%) resulted from acute exposures, with 75% being intentional. Pesticides (61.1%), paraffin (18.7%), alcohol (6.5%), and pharmaceutical drugs (4.4%) were the primary poisons used. 3.9% didn't fit these categories, while 5.5% remained unknown. Common presentations at admission were vomiting (35.3%) and unconsciousness (21.6%). Pesticides were responsible for 72.0% of deaths. Sequelae occurred in 7.8%, full but delayed recovery in 17.6%, and 6.0% died. The largest cluster of total cases was found in Thika town sub-county. It also contained the primary clusters of alcohol and pesticide poisoning. Being male (AOR 4.577, 95% CI [1.244–16.842]) was significantly associated with adverse outcomes. Regardless of the poison, the majority 78.8% made a full recovery.

Conclusion

Due to the lack of standardized poisoning data tools, patient records lack vital information reflecting the quality of care that the patient received, reflecting a lack of structures to collect, analyse and utilise poisoning data for decision making. This study underpins the need for the establishment of a PC in Kiambu county, Kenya.
Pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic implications of extracellular matrix remodelling in cerebral vasospasm
Authors: Hu Ziliang , Deng Xinpeng , Zhou Shengjun , Zhou Chenhui , Shen Menglu , Gao Xiang , Huang Yi
Published: November 2023

Cerebral vasospasm significantly contributes to poor prognosis and mortality in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Current research indicates that the pathological and physiological mechanisms of cerebral vasospasm may be attributed to the exposure of blood vessels to toxic substances, such as oxyhaemoglobin and inflammation factors. These factors disrupt cerebral vascular homeostasis. Vascular homeostasis is maintained by the extracellular matrix (ECM) and related cell surface receptors, such as integrins, characterised by collagen deposition, collagen crosslinking, and elastin degradation within the vascular ECM. It involves interactions between the ECM and smooth muscle cells as well as endothelial cells. Its biological activities are particularly crucial in the context of cerebral vasospasm. Therefore, regulating ECM homeostasis may represent a novel therapeutic target for cerebral vasospasm. This review explores the potential pathogenic mechanisms of cerebral vasospasm and the impacts of ECM protein metabolism on the vascular wall during ECM remodelling. Additionally, we underscore the significance of an ECM protein imbalance, which can lead to increased ECM stiffness and activation of the YAP pathway, resulting in vascular remodelling. Lastly, we discuss future research directions.
Interplay between autotrophic and heterotrophic prokaryotic metabolism in the bathypelagic realm revealed by metatranscriptomic analyses
Authors: Srivastava Abhishek , De Corte Daniele , Garcia Juan A. L. , Swan Brandon K. , Stepanauskas Ramunas , Herndl Gerhard J. , Sintes Eva
Published: November 2023

Background

Heterotrophic microbes inhabiting the dark ocean largely depend on the settling of organic matter from the sunlit ocean. However, this sinking of organic materials is insufficient to cover their demand for energy and alternative sources such as chemoautotrophy have been proposed. Reduced sulfur compounds, such as thiosulfate, are a potential energy source for both auto- and heterotrophic marine prokaryotes.

Methods

Seawater samples were collected from Labrador Sea Water (LSW, ~ 2000 m depth) in the North Atlantic and incubated in the dark at in situ temperature unamended, amended with 1 µM thiosulfate, or with 1 µM thiosulfate plus 10 µM glucose and 10 µM acetate (thiosulfate plus dissolved organic matter, DOM). Inorganic carbon fixation was measured in the different treatments and samples for metatranscriptomic analyses were collected after 1 h and 72 h of incubation.

Results

Amendment of LSW with thiosulfate and thiosulfate plus DOM enhanced prokaryotic inorganic carbon fixation. The energy generated via chemoautotrophy and heterotrophy in the amended prokaryotic communities was used for the biosynthesis of glycogen and phospholipids as storage molecules. The addition of thiosulfate stimulated unclassified bacteria, sulfur-oxidizing Deltaproteobacteria (SAR324 cluster bacteria), Epsilonproteobacteria (Sulfurimonas sp.), and Gammaproteobacteria (SUP05 cluster bacteria), whereas, the amendment with thiosulfate plus DOM stimulated typically copiotrophic Gammaproteobacteria (closely related to Vibrio sp. and Pseudoalteromonas sp.).

Conclusions

The gene expression pattern of thiosulfate utilizing microbes specifically of genes involved in energy production via sulfur oxidation and coupled to CO2 fixation pathways coincided with the change in the transcriptional profile of the heterotrophic prokaryotic community (genes involved in promoting energy storage), suggesting a fine-tuned metabolic interplay between chemoautotrophic and heterotrophic microbes in the dark ocean.
Biodiversity of Indonesian indigenous buffalo: First review of the status, challenges, and development opportunities
Authors: Prihandini Peni Wahyu , Tribudi Yuli Arif , Hariyono Dwi Nur Happy , Sari Aprilianna Putri Zahara Nafsina Luvita , Praharani Lisa , Handiwirawan Eko , Tiesnamurti Bess , Romjali Endang , Matitaputty Procula Rudlof , Wiyono Agus
Published: November 2023

In Indonesia, the buffalo is important for small and marginal farmers’ livelihood and economic development as a source of food, working animal, and tourist attraction. Therefore, an in-depth study is needed to examine challenges and opportunities for buffalo development in Indonesia. In Indonesia, the buffalo is divided into two types: swamp buffalo and river buffalo. The buffalo population in Indonesia has declined significantly. A decrease of approximately 39.35% was recorded from 2022 to 2017. The decline occurred due to low reproduction rate and suboptimal rearing management systems. There are three buffalo-rearing systems: Intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive. The productivity of buffalo is diverse and closely related to the characteristics of the regional agroecosystem, consistent with existing natural resources and rearing management systems. The diversity of buffalo productivity provides a good opportunity to improve productivity. Improvement of buffalo genetics is urgently needed, by improving mating management, etc., especially to reduce potential inbreeding. In recent years, genetic and molecular research on Indonesian buffalo has made progress, including use of molecular markers, such as microsatellites and single-nucleotide polymorphisms, to evaluate genetic diversity within and among buffalo populations across Indonesia. In addition, studies are being conducted on the relationship of genotype mutations that contribute to appearance and phenotypic performance (heat stress, reproduction, behavior, coat color, and production attributes) in buffaloes. Identification of genetic diversity in local buffaloes can be improved using various genetic and genomic techniques. These findings will form a basis for the targeted conservation of local buffaloes in Indonesia. This study aimed to collect information on the genetic resources of the local buffalo, particularly its status and production system and provide recommendations for developing buffalo production in Indonesia. Keywords: Bubalus bubalis, diversity, production system, zoogenetic resources.
Psychosocial risks in the working environment – approaches to formative risk assessment
Authors: Paulus Stefan , Scheidegger Alexander , Rabensteiner Jasmin , Egger Thomas
Published: November 2023

The following explanations are based on the central reference points and results of the basic research project on psychosocial risks in the world of work, which was funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). The aim of this project was to develop a formative risk assessment of psychosocial risks in the world of work with a special focus on the dynamic interdependencies between gainful employment and care work as well as structural work stress and subjectively perceived work stress. The result of this project is a theoretical-generic model of a formative risk assessment, which can be specifically configured for different stakeholder groups and was operationalized as a psychotherapeutic medical product via the Innosuisse project “SELBA” (Self Recognize, Understand, Change and Monitor Work Stresses and Strains).
ІННОВАЦІЙНІ СПІЛЬНОТИ ТА ЇХ МОЖЛИВОСТІ У ВІДРОДЖЕННІ ПОСТРАЖДАЛИХ ВІД ВІЙНИ УКРАЇНСЬКИХ ТЕРИТОРІЙ НА ЗАСАДАХ СТІЙКОСТІ Й СТАЛОСТІ
Authors: ПІДОРИЧЕВА Ірина
Published: November 2023

Поглиблено розуміння природи спільнот, для чого використано різні критерії їх визначення, зокрема географічний, професійний, соціально-проблемний, екологічно-проблемний, культурно-етнічний. Визначено, що одним з видів спільнот є інноваційні спільноти – групи людей, які спрямовують свою діяльність на отримання інноваційних результатів у спільному середовищі, що здатні вплинути на вирішення значущих соціально-економічних і екологічних проблем суспільства. За результатами систематизації науково-теоретичних засад виявлення феномену інноваційних спільнот визначено їх сутнісні характеристики й переваги для розвитку територіальних громад.
Інноваційні спільноти є джерелами прогресивних суспільних трансформацій, оскільки спрямовані на стійкий і сталий розвиток територій. Обґрунтовано роль і можливості інноваційних спільнот у відродженні постраждалих від війни українських територій за принципом «відбудувати краще, ніж було» (build back better). Розкрито сутність цього принципу, який полягає у відновленні, відбудові й реконструкції різних сфер суспільства після катастроф і лих не просто до попереднього (у випадку України – довоєнного) стану, а на основі впровадження якісно нових змін і вдосконалень. Підкреслено відповідність реалізації цього принципу національним інтересам України. Визначено необхідність забезпечення еволюції територіальних громад та їх населення від переважно пасивного спостерігача і споживача до активного учасника процесу відродження населених пунктів на засадах стійкості й сталості. Це потребує запровадження відкритості в державному управлінні й партнерських відносин місцевих органів влади з місцевим населенням, розвитку громадської свідомості й активності, заохочення підприємництва, соціальних і екологічних місцевих ініціатив, поширення успішних інноваційних практик і сталого способу життя.
ДЕТЕРМІНАЦІЯ ЗАСАД РЕГІОНАЛЬНОЇ ПОЛІТИКИ В КОНТЕКСТІ СУЧАСНИХ ВИКЛИКІВ ПРОСТОРОВОГО РОЗВИТКУ В УКРАЇНІ
Authors: СТОРОНЯНСЬКА Ірина , ЗАЛУЦЬКИЙ Іван
Published: November 2023

Розглянуто проблему формування засад регіональної політики в Україні в контексті сучасних викликів просторового розвитку, використання територіально орієнтованого і безпекового підходів. Встановлено проблемні площини регуляторно-правового механізму державної регіональної політики, а саме щодо: регламентації виключно законом регуляторних аспектів державної регіональної політики і впровадження європейських інструментів у сфері регіонального розвитку; імплементації територій територіальних громад у національну систему адміністративно-територіального устрою; уніфікації типологій функціональних типів територій у чинних правових актах держави; ефективної координації та інтеграції різних політик у сфері регіонального розвитку.Розроблено пропозиції стосовно комплексу законодавчих змін у контексті формування дієвої взаємопов’язаної системи планування функціонально-просторового розвитку держави, регіонів і територіальних громад, які передбачають: узгодження засад державної регіональної політики як складової частини внутрішньої політики України з Керівними принципи процесу відновлення України («принципами Лугано») і Керівними принципами сталого просторового розвитку європейського континенту; імплементацію Національної концепції просторового розвитку, регіональних концепцій просторового розвитку, концепції інтегрованого розвитку території територіальної громади як документів, що визначають довгострокові, міждисциплінарні, просторові й соціально-економічні пріоритети збалансованого розвитку відповідної території та є основою системи взаємопов’язаних документів стратегічного планування і реалізації державної регіональної політики; упровадження інноваційної моделі функціонально-просторового розвитку території на основі смарт-спеціалізації; упровадження механізму формування документації з просторового планування в режимі геоінформаційної платформи «Планування просторового розвитку» як інтегрованого й орієнтованого на місця унікального інструменту політики функціонально-просторового розвитку території і трансформації соціально-економічного середовища з урахуванням Європейського зеленого курсу.
Hybrid Filtering-based Physician Recommender Systems using Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process and User Ratings
Authors: V. Mani  , S. Thilagamani
Published: November 2023

As an emerging trend in data science, applications based on big data analytics are reshaping health informatics and medical scenarios.Currently, peoples are more cognizant and seek solutions to their healthcareproblems online. In the chorus, selecting a healthcare professional or organization is a tedious and time-consuming process. Patients may vainly spend time and meet severaldoctors until one is found that suits theirexact needs. Frequently, they do not have sufficient information on whereupon to base a decision. This has led to a dire requirementfor an efficient anddependablepatient-specific online tool to find out an appropriatedoctor in a limited time.In this paper, we propose a hybrid Physician Recommender System(PRS) by integrating various recommender approaches such asdemographic, collaborative, and content-based filtering for findingsuitabledoctors in line with the preferred choices of patients and their ratings. The proposed system resolves the problem of customization by studyingthe patient’s criteriaforchoosing a physician. It employs an adaptive algorithm to find the overall rank of the particular doctor. Furthermore, this ranking method is applied to convert patients’ preferred choices into a numerical base rating, which will ultimately be employed inour physician recommender system. The proposed system has been appraisedcarefully, and the result reveals that recommendations are rational and can satisfythe patient’s need for consistentphysician selection successfully.
A Cluster-Aware Transfer Learning for Bayesian Optimization of Personalized Preference Models
Authors: Yamasaki Haruto , Matsubara Masaki , Ito Hiroyoshi , Nambu Yuta , Kohjima Masahiro , Kurauchi Yuki , Yamamoto Ryuji , Morishima Atsuyuki
Published: November 2023

Obtaining personalized models of the crowd is an important issue in various applications, such as preference acquisition and user interaction customization. However, the crowd setting, in which we assume we have little knowledge about the person, brings the cold start problem, which may cause avoidable unpreferable interactions with the people. This paper proposes a cluster-aware transfer learning method for the Bayesian optimization of personalized models. The proposed method, called Cluster-aware Bayesian Optimization, is designed based on a known feature: user preferences are not completely independent but can be divided into clusters. It exploits the clustering information to efficiently find the preference of the crowds while avoiding unpreferable interactions. The results of our extensive experiments with different data sets show that the method is efficient for finding the most preferable items and effective in reducing the number of unpreferable interactions.
Confidence Contours: Uncertainty-Aware Annotation for Medical Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Ye Andre , Chen Quan Ze , Zhang Amy
Published: November 2023

Medical image segmentation modeling is a high-stakes task where understanding of uncertainty is crucial for addressing visual ambiguity. Prior work has developed segmentation models utilizing probabilistic or generative mechanisms to infer uncertainty from labels where annotators draw a singular boundary. However, as these annotations cannot represent an individual annotator's uncertainty, models trained on them produce uncertainty maps that are difficult to interpret. We propose a novel segmentation representation, Confidence Contours, which uses high- and low-confidence ``contours’’ to capture uncertainty directly, and develop a novel annotation system for collecting contours. We conduct an evaluation on the Lung Image Dataset Consortium (LIDC) and a synthetic dataset. From an annotation study with 30 participants, results show that Confidence Contours provide high representative capacity without considerably higher annotator effort. We also find that general-purpose segmentation models can learn Confidence Contours at the same performance level as standard singular annotations. Finally, from interviews with 5 medical experts, we find that Confidence Contour maps are more interpretable than Bayesian maps due to representation of structural uncertainty.
A Crowd–AI Collaborative Approach to Address Demographic Bias for Student Performance Prediction in Online Education
Authors: Zong Ruohan , Zhang Yang , Stinar Frank , Shang Lanyu , Zeng Huimin , Bosch Nigel , Wang Dong
Published: November 2023

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and crowdsourcing have shown success in enhancing learning experiences and outcomes in online education. This paper studies a student performance prediction problem where the objective is to predict students' outcomes in online courses based on their behavioral data. In particular, we focus on addressing the limitation of current student performance prediction solutions that often make inaccurate predictions for students from underrepresented demographic groups due to the lack of training data and differences in behavioral patterns across groups. We develop DebiasEdu, a crowd–AI collaborative debias framework that melds the AI and crowd intelligence through 1) a novel gradient-based bias identification mechanism and 2) a bias-aware crowdsourcing interface and bias calibration design to achieve an accurate and fair student performance prediction. Evaluation results on two online courses demonstrate that DebiasEdu consistently outperforms state-of-the-art AI, fair AI, and crowd–AI baselines by achieving an optimized student performance prediction in terms of both accuracy and fairness.
Seismic performance of fabricated shear wall structures with design defects
Authors: Yan Hua , Song Bo , Yin Huanhuan
Published: November 2023

The sleeve grouting connection stands as a customary method for interlinking precast shear walls within assembly construction. In the realm of on-site construction, achieving complete avoidance of sleeve grouting defects remains a challenge. In an endeavor to scrutinize the seismic performance and the subsequent progression of damage within shear wall structures riddled with sleeve grouting defects, a two-story shear wall model was formulated through the utilization of ABAQUS software. Employing numerical simulation of low cycle reciprocating loading, the study was conducted across three distinct operational contexts: absence of defects, localized defects, and comprehensive defects. The outcomes proffer insight into the exacerbated concrete damage triggered by defects present within shear wall structures. These defects contribute to premature yielding of reinforcement and a consequent amplification in the plastic length of the reinforcement, consequently impeding the harmonized deformation of reinforcement and concrete. The “pinch phenomenon” is particularly conspicuous within fully defective structures during the nascent loading stages. As cyclic loads mount, the hysteretic curves of both defective and defect-free structure tend to converge. While the skeleton curve of structures, whether grouting defects are present or not, demonstrates remarkable parity prior to reaching the pinnacle reaction force, the defective structure displays premature waning in reaction force. This, in turn, curtails the efficacy of early warning concerning structural deformation and jeopardizes safety. In light of the foregoing analysis, it is manifest that the presence of sleeve grouting defects significantly impacts the seismic performance and subsequent damage trajectory of shear wall structures. As a corollary, addressing and mitigating these defects during on-site construction emerge as imperative prerequisites for upholding the comprehensive safety and stability of the structure.
Tool Use Traditions in Nonhuman Primates: The Case of Tufted Capuchin Monkeys
Authors: Ottoni Eduardo B.
Published: November 2023

Tool use was once a major defining feature of “human nature”. If the findings about the spontaneous use of tools by wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) forced us to rethink traditional views on the “unique and exclusive” character of human technological abilities, the discovery of similar behaviors in a few monkey species – one Old World monkey (Macaca fascicularis), and one genus of New World monkeys (Sapajus spp) – leads us to broader questions, focusing our attention not on phylogenetic proximity, but, rather, on the cognitive, ecological and social conditions and mechanisms fostering the emergence of tool use and behavioral traditions. The use of tools does not imply any particular underlying cognitive mechanisms: In most cases, it involves a single, “species-typical” behavior, which may look quite “hard-wired”. Even among tool-using birds, the development of such abilities seems to rely mostly on individual learning, building on innate predispositions. In the case of nonhuman primates’ toolkits, however, there is growing evidence of behavioral variation that cannot be explained just by genetic differences between populations, nor by different environmental pressures and affordances, suggesting the results of socially biased learning. The comparative approach, by itself, cannot provide hard evidence of behavioral traditions: Developmental studies, as well as field experiments, are helping to unravel the cultural nature of primate tool use. Although human culture (cumulative, symbolic) may depend on special cognitive features, such as “Theory of Mind”, enabling shared intentions, imitation, and purposeful teaching, simpler mechanisms, such as “stimulus enhancement”, can support the establishment of behavioral traditions. Moreover, the lasting changes in the environment produced by some forms of tool use can be seen as instances of “niche construction” optimizing naive observers’ learning opportunities.
A Cultural Perspective on Prosocial Development
Authors: Köster Moritz , Schuhmacher Nils , Kärtner Joscha
Published: November 2023

Anthropological studies and recent evidence from cross-cultural psychology suggest considerable variations in the way prosocial behavior is conceptualized and embedded in social interactions across cultures. Important questions are which aspects of different ecosocial contexts might explain these variations and how these aspects influence prosocial development throughout ontogeny. Here, building on the ecosocial model of culturally informed development (Keller, 2007), we hypothesize two prototypical developmental pathways towards prosocial behavior. In relational contexts, i.e., rural areas of non-Western countries, social interactions and the concept of prosociality is guided by interpersonal responsibilities. Conversely, in autonomous contexts, i.e. urban middle-class settings in Western countries, social interactions and the concept of prosociality is guided by an emphasis on personal choice. Furthermore, we point out three perspectives for future cross-cultural research on prosocial development. It is essential (1) to further investigate the cultural influences on prosocial development, (2) to understand the mechanisms of cultural transmission in different contexts, and (3) to identify the motivational processes underlying early prosocial behavior. We conclude that prosocial development can only be fully understood also taking into account a cultural perspective. In particular, future cross-cultural research may lead to a better understanding of the complex interplay between phylogenetic and ontogenetic factors underlying prosocial development.
A Clinician Draws on Evolutionary Theory to Shed Light on PTSD
Authors: Weisfeld Carol Cronin
Published: November 2023

A review of the book “Evolution and posttraumatic stress: disorders of vigilance and defence” by Chris Cantor (2005).
Human Social Behavioral Systems: Ethological Framework for a Unified Theory
Authors: Leedom Liane J.
Published: November 2023

Drive theories of motivation proposed by Lorenz and Tinbergen did not survive experimental scrutiny; however these were replaced by the behavioral systems framework. Unfortunately, political forces within science including the rise of sociobiology and comparative psychology, caused neglect of this important framework. This review revives the concept of behavioral systems and demonstrates its utility in the development of a unified theory of human social behavior and social bonding. Although the term “attachment” has been used to indicate social bonds which motivate affiliation, four differentiable social reward systems mediate social proximity and bond formation: the affiliation (attachment), caregiving, dominance and sexual behavioral systems. Ethology is dedicated to integrating inborn capacities with experiential learning as well as the proximal and ultimate causes of behavior. Hence, the behavioral systems framework developed by ethologists nearly 50 years ago, enables discussion of a unified theory of human social behavior.