bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The main predictors of well-being and productivity from a gender perspective
Authors: Martínez-Martínez Kevin , Llorens Susana , Cruz-Ortiz Valeria , Reyes-Luján Juanjo , Salanova Marisa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Gender difference management is one of the most challenging dimensions organizations must cope with to adapt to VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) environments. The aim of this study is to identify the main drivers (i.e., most influential job resources, job demands, and organizational practices) of healthy employees and organizational outcomes assessing the differences between men and women, based on the HERO (HEalthy and Resilient Organization) Model.

Methods

Data were collected through the HERO-CHECK Questionnaire: job demands (e.g., quantitative overload), job (e.g., team coordination) and personal resources (e.g., emotional competence), healthy organizational practices (e.g., work-family balance practices), healthy employees (e.g., work engagement) and healthy organizational outcomes (e.g., in-role performance). The sample consisted of 2,128 professionals (70% female) from 8 organizations. Gender-based multigroup SEM was performed using R 4.1.2.

Results

Results of the multigroup SEM analysis show a good fit of the HERO model and support the existence of configural invariance among gender groups. This research shows that women perceive more resources to cope with demands, in consequence, they perceive more well-being and better job performance. Regardless of gender, coordination, horizontal trust, vertical trust, and emotional competence stand as relevant resources for achieving healthy employees and healthy organizational outcomes. However, there are gender-specific predictors of healthy employees and healthy organizational outcomes, depending on gender.

Discussion

Based on these results, gender-related recommendations for promoting specific resources (e.g., autonomy in women) and preventing specific demands (e.g., mobbing in men) may be suggested in organizational contexts.
Real-world clinical determinants of alcohol dependence in outpatients with bipolar disorder: a multicenter treatment survey for bipolar disorder in psychiatric outpatient clinics with 2,392 participants
Authors: Tokumitsu Keita , Sugawara Norio , Adachi Naoto , Kubota Yukihisa , Watanabe Yoichiro , Miki Kazuhira , Azekawa Takaharu , Edagawa Koji , Katsumoto Eiichi , Hongo Seiji , Goto Eiichiro , Ueda Hitoshi , Kato Masaki , Yoshimura Reiji , Nakagawa Atsuo , Kikuchi Toshiaki , Tsuboi Takashi , Watanabe Koichiro , Yasui-Furukori Norio
Published: November 2024

Background

Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric disorder characterized by mood swings between manic and depressed states that causes psychosocial problems. Cognitive function deteriorates with each recurrence, making it important to maintain remission through continued treatment. Bipolar disorder often co-occurs with alcohol dependence, which is known to lead to decreased treatment adherence and increased suicide risk. However, the real-world clinical determinants of alcohol dependence in outpatients with bipolar disorder in Japan remain unclear.

Methods

We conducted an observational study targeting 2392 patients with bipolar disorder using data from the MUSUBI study, a joint project of the Japanese Association of Neuro-Psychiatric Clinics and the Japanese Society of Clinical Neuropsychopharmacology. After determining the prevalence of alcohol dependence and the sociodemographic characteristics of patients with bipolar disorder, multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors for alcohol comorbidity.

Results

The prevalence of alcohol dependence among outpatients with bipolar disorder in this study was 5.7%. The prevalence was 7.6% for males and 3.1% for females. The results of the binomial logistic regression analysis revealed that bipolar I disorder, manic state, comorbidities with other psychiatric disorders, male sex, and suicidal ideation were significantly associated with alcohol dependence. Stratified analysis by gender showed that alcohol dependence was more strongly associated with the presence of suicidal ideation in women than in men.

Limitation

First, because this was an observational study with a cross-sectional design, causal relationships between factors cannot be determined. In addition, this study included outpatients in Japan but lacked information on inpatients. Therefore, it was considered necessary to conduct the study on a larger population in order to generate more robust evidence.

Conclusions

We found that outpatients with bipolar disorder, especially men, had higher rates of alcohol dependence overall than the general population in Japan. In addition, the relationship between alcohol dependence and suicidal ideation was stronger in women than in men with bipolar disorder. There was a strong association between manic states and alcohol dependence in outpatients with bipolar disorder. These results are useful to clinicians because they reinforce real-world clinical evidence for the treatment of bipolar disorder and co-occurring alcohol dependence.
Development and validation of a National Prostalgia scale to measure acceptance and desire for cultural change
Authors: Corral Sol I. , Bray Jessica R. , Jones Daniel N. , Armenta Angel D. , Zárate Michael A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Demographic changes occurring throughout the world, as well as different forms of climate and social movements, are examples of the constant cultural change people experience. Many of these changes reflect broad political and existential threats. We developed and tested the concept of national prostalgia, which we define as the longing of the nation’s future. According to Cultural Inertia theory, national prostalgia is a psychological propeller that facilitates acceptance of cultural change.

Methods

We conducted two correlational studies to develop and test the construct, and the predictive, divergent, and convergent validity of national prostalgia by comparing it to two prospection scales that measure future-thinking, and a third study to experimentally test if national prostalgia can be manipulated. We hypothesized that national prostalgia would predict higher acceptance to cultural change. Change was operationalized as eco-friendly intentions, engagement of new norms created during the COVID-19 pandemic and lowering prejudiced attitudes–beyond the effect of national nostalgia, prospection, optimism, and openness to new experiences.

Results

Study 1 demonstrated that national prostalgia was a better predictor than prospection for higher eco-friendly intentions and acceptance of new normal norms, even when controlling for national nostalgia (i.e., a psychological anchor). In study 2, national prostalgia predicted higher eco- friendly intentions and acceptance of new normal norms, even when controlling for prospection, optimism, and openness to new experiences. National prostalgia did not predict outgroup derogation or white nationalism–variables that indicate prejudice. Study 3 replicated the basic effects, but manipulations designed to influence national prostalgia did not have their predicted effects.

Discussion

Thus, national prostalgia is a psychological propeller that goes above and beyond the effect of prospection and we now have a reliable and valid scale to measure national prostalgia.
Foreign funding of U.S. higher education relates to sanctioning of scholars and antisemitism
Authors: Bass Michael , Ross Alexander Reid , Wolfson Ben , Finkelstein Joel , Yanovsky Sonia , Finkelstein Danit , Stevens Sean T. , Honeycutt Nathan , Paresky Pamela , Feinberg Ayal , Small Charles Asher , Jussim Lee
Published: November 2024

We examined relations between foreign funding of U.S. colleges and universities and campus political developments. Seven studies investigated associations between foreign funding and campus liberal democratic norms, specifically, deterioration of free speech and academic freedom, and presence of antisemitism. Study I found that 349 colleges and universities received a total of almost $18 billion from foreign sources between 2014 and 2019. Study II examined relationships of foreign funding to campus deplatforming of speakers and punitive actions for speech protected by academic freedom. Main results were: 1. overall foreign funding was not strongly related to campus speech outcomes; 2. higher levels of deplatforming and speech punishment occurred on campuses that received funding from member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and from authoritarian countries. Study III found weak evidence that foreign funding was associated with college students' reported exposure to antisemitic and anti-Zionist tropes. After demonstrating substantial correlations among three national measures of antisemitic incidents (Study IV), Study V found that foreign funding provided by member countries of the Organization for Islamic Cooperation or by authoritarian countries was associated with elevated levels of campus antisemitism and anti-Zionist incidents. Studies VI and VII found that antisemitic incidents on campus were associated with antisemitic incidents across the country. This research highlighted troubling possibilities about the potential role of foreign funding in higher education that deserve further investigation.
Employee pro-environmental proactive behavior: the influence of pro-environmental senior leader and organizational support, supervisor and co-worker support, and employee pro-environmental engagement
Authors: Albrecht Simon L. , Dalton Jack R. , Kavadas Vicki
Published: November 2024

Organizations are increasingly being held to account by a broad range of stakeholders to deliver products and services in an environmentally sustainable way. Within this context, employees are increasingly being recognized as important to the successful implementation of organizational environmental policies, procedures, practices, and initiatives. For organizations to successfully achieve environmental objectives, they need to enable a range of supports that promote employee enthusiasm for pro-environmental action, and that motivate employees to proactively engage in pro-environmental behaviors. The present study contributes to the employee sustainability literature by showing how four different sources of pro-environmental support influence employee pro-environmental engagement and pro-environmental proactive behavior. More specifically, and drawing from organizational support and engagement theory, the study tests a model analysing the impact of pro-environmental senior leader support, pro-environmental organizational support, pro-environmental supervisor support, and pro-environmental co-worker support on pro-environmental engagement, and, in turn, on pro-environmental proactive behavior. On-line survey responses from 347 Australian employees aged from 18 to 80 years old, working full-time or part-time, in a variety of industries were analyzed. Confirmatory factor analyses and structural equation modelling revealed support for the validity of the measures and for the relationships proposed. Overall, taking account of direct and indirect effects, the model accounted for 64% of the variance in pro-environmental engagement, and 43% of the variance in pro-environmental proactive behavior. All four sources of support significantly predicted pro-environmental engagement and, as proposed supervisor, coworker support, and pro-environmental engagement predicted pro-environmental proactive behavior. Relative weights analysis established that pro-environmental coworker support was the strongest predictor of pro-environmental engagement and proactive behavior. The results extend pro-environmental engagement theory by showing how different sources of pro-environmental support influence employee pro-environmental motivation and proactive behavior. The research also extends previous theory and research by showing that pro-environmental engagement had a significant influence on employee proactive behavior. Overall, the research suggests that through a focus on the provision of a range of supports, organizations can implement targeted and evidence-based employee-centred initiatives to become more sustainable, and to better meet their pro-environmental strategic goals.
Impacts of COVID-19 on SDGs implementation and service delivery in South Africa
Authors: Nhamo Godwell , Chapungu Lazarus
Published: November 2024

As the world races towards the 2030 deadline on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant setbacks on progress, particularly at local levels. This paper examines COVID-19’s disruption of the implementation of SDGs and service delivery in South Africa, with a focus on Limpopo Province. The study focuses on perceptions from government employees (n = 191), households (n = 4,564), civil society organizations (n = 143), and agricultural communities (n = 68). Results show uneven impact of the pandemic across different SDGs. While all SDGs, except SDG14 (Life Below Water), were affected, six goals were especially hard hit: SDG1 (No Poverty), SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), SDG4 (Quality Education), SDG8 (Decent Work), and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The Limpopo Province, which grapples with high levels of poverty, unemployment, and inequality, faces additional hurdles in regaining its momentum toward SDG attainment. The study observes an urgent need for targeted interventions, revised strategies, and enhanced monitoring frameworks to ensure that the province, and South Africa at large, can make meaningful progress in the remaining years toward the 2030 Agenda. The work also reveals that without deliberate and scaled-up efforts, the province’s path to sustainable development remains out of reach, exacerbating existing inequalities and development challenges.
Innovative vaginal manipulator technique vs. traditional method for vaginal fornix deployment in robotic sacrocolpopexy
Authors: Ota Yoshiaki , Ota Kuniaki , Takahashi Toshifumi , Kawamura Shogo , Shiota Mitsuru , Shimoya Koichiro
Published: November 2024

Introduction and hypothesis

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects approximately 30% of middle-aged and older women, with 11%–19% requiring surgical intervention. Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy preserves the vaginal axis and length but involves a steep learning curve and longer operation times. Robotic sacrocolpopexy (RSC) addresses these issues, offering enhanced surgical precision. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a novel vaginal manipulator (Hoyte Sacro Tip®; Cooper Surgical, Trumbull, CT, USA) compared with the traditional spatula in RSC.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 88 females undergoing RSC at Kawasaki Medical School Hospital between January 2021 and December 2023. Patients were divided into two groups: spatula (n = 50) and vaginal manipulator (n = 38). Data on patient demographics, operative outcomes, and postoperative POP quantification (POP-Q) scores were collected.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups, except for gravidity and hypertension, which were higher in the spatula group than that in the vaginal manipulator group. No significant differences were found in operative time, console time, estimated blood loss, or complication rates between the groups (p = 0.08, 0.12, 0.19, and NA, respectively). Hospital stays were shorter in the vaginal manipulator group (median 6.5 vs. 7.0 days, p = 0.03) than in the spatula group. Both groups showed improved POP-Q scores postoperatively. However, the vaginal manipulator group had significantly lower ΔC scores than that of the spatula group (6.26 ± 3.88 vs. 8.53 ± 3.25, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

The vaginal manipulator proved to be a safe and feasible alternative to the traditional spatula, with comparable perioperative outcomes and shorter hospital stays. The manipulator's design facilitated better tissue dissection, potentially improving surgical efficiency.
Dechorionated zebrafish embryos improve evaluation of nanotoxicity
Authors: Kim Rosa , Heo Yunwi , Yoon Hakwon , Park June-Woo
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In response to the growing need to evaluate nanomaterial (NM) toxicity and compliance with the “3Rs” principles (replacement, reduction, and refinement of animal experiments), zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos have emerged as a promising alternative model for studies on NM toxicity. However, zebrafish embryos are surrounded by an acellular envelope, the chorion, which limits the permeability of NMs. The present study investigated the importance of dechorionated zebrafish embryos for evaluating NM toxicity.

Methods

We utilized confocal microscopy and field-emission scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy to observe the permeability of NMs into the embryonic body using 50-nm fluorescein 5 (6)-isothiocyanate-incorporated silica nanoparticles (FITC-SiO2NPs). We investigated the physiological effects of removing the chorion using pronase on zebrafish embryos. Nanotoxicity was compared depending on the presence or absence of the chorion in zebrafish embryos using the standardized method ISO/TS 22082:2020.

Results

The FITC-SiO2NPs were adsorbed onto the embryonic chorion; the Si content was higher in the chorion than in the embryonic body and higher in the intact zebrafish embryos than in the dechorionated ones. Dechorionated zebrafish embryos exhibited no negative physiological effects. The LC50 values of several NMs were lower in dechorionated embryos than those in intact ones.

Conclusion

Dechorionated zebrafish embryos exhibited greater sensitivity to NMs than usual. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate NM toxicity using a new standardized test method, ISO/TS 22082:2020, and could contribute towards the increased utility of dechorionated embryos as an alternative model for the evaluation of nanotoxicity.
Effects of icariin as a feed additive on the reproductive function in bucks (Capra hircus)
Authors: Zhao Fang-e , Chen Hong , Wang Shuo , Zhang Xinge , Chen Na , Chen Hongbo , Fu Jie , Liu Hailong , Liu Jun , Liu Tengfei
Published: November 2024

Improving the reproductive ability and fertility of male ruminants is a central concern in animal husbandry. Phytogenic feed additives, known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, are commonly used in animal feed. Icariin (ICA), the primary flavonoid glucoside derived from Epimedium, is a traditional tonic in Chinese herbal medicine. However, its potential to enhance the reproductive performance of male ruminants remains unclear. In this study, twelve healthy adult male dairy goats were divided into two groups. The goats received oral administration of ICA at doses of 0 (control) and 50 mg/kg body weight daily for a consecutive period of 80 days during the breeding season. The effects of ICA on the reproductive performance was analyzed by histological examinations, semen quality analysis, and ELISA experiments. ELISA results showed a progressive increase in serum levels of GnIH, LH, and testosterone with the prolonged ICA treatment (p < 0.05). However, the serum concentration of GnRH in the ICA group initially increased, followed by a subsequent decrease (p < 0.05). The hypothalamic concentrations of dopamine (DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were significantly higher in the ICA group compared to the control group (p < 0.01). The CASA system analyzed sperm kinematics and revealed that ICA increased ejaculate volume, with both total motile and progressive motile sperm gradually increasing over time (p < 0.05). ICA did not affect the body weight of the goats but significantly increased the organ coefficient of the testes (p < 0.01). Additionally, there was an upregulation of hormone receptor expression in testicular tissue and an improvement in the antioxidant capacity of the testes after ICA treatment (p < 0.01). Furthermore, ICA was implicated in testosterone synthesis by modulating the expression of key enzymes associated with steroidogenesis and promoting the differentiation of spermatogonial stem cell to enhance spermatogenesis. In conclusion, our results indicate that icariin, as a phytogenic feed additive incorporated into the diet of ruminants, offers potential benefits in improving the reproductive performance of male dairy goats.
Genomic and transcriptomics analysis reveal putative secreted proteins expressed of Pasteurella multocida during 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid treatment
Authors: Wu Zhongyuan , Zhang Yuhan , Wang Luyao , Mei Meng , Qiu Yinsheng , Liu Yu , Fu Shulin , Xiong Jianglin , Lu Qirong , Guo Pu
Published: November 2024

Pasteurella multocida is a gram-negative opportunistic pathogen that can infect both domestic animals and humans, leading to large economic losses to the livestock industry. 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid, the main active component of Glycyrrhiza glabra L., has antibacterial properties. However, the virulence factors (especially the secreted proteins with eukaryotic-like domains) and pathogenesis of P. multocida and the regulatory effect of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid have not been fully elucidated. This study focused on predicting secreted proteins with eukaryotic-like domains in P. multocida and examining the antibacterial effects of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid on P. multocida. We combined transcriptomics analysis and in silico approaches to explore virulence factors in the P. multocida HB03 genome and identified 40 secreted proteins with eukaryotic-like domains regulated by 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) showed that compared with the P. multocida group, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid significantly reduced the expression of aceF, gdhA, hpaG, and sel1L and increased the expression of galT and xynC, which was consistent with the transcriptomic data. Combining these qPCR results with the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes annotation results showed that 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid interfered with bacterial energy metabolism and host interactions by regulating the expression of virulence factors in P. multocida. Moreover, molecular docking revealed that 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid had the potential to target aceF and hpaG, thus regulating the activity of secreted proteins. Our findings indicate that predicting the secreted proteins with eukaryotic-like domains in P. multocida and elucidating the regulatory effect of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid provides a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of P. multocida infection and the development of alternative antibiotic therapies.
Adjusted Donor Age: A Clinical Score to Support Organ Acceptance Decisions in Deceased-Donor Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Bright Rupert , Mahler Christoph F. , Adwaney Anamika , Dosani Dhriti , Morganti Emma , Friedl Felix , Nusshag Christian , Speer Claudius , Benning Louise , Göth Daniel , Schaier Matthias , Sommerer Claudia , Mieth Markus , Mehrabi Arianeb , Zeier Martin , Morath Christian , Dor Frank J. M. F. , Kälble Florian , Ashby Damien
Published: November 2024

As transplant programmes have evolved to allow a wider donor pool, organ acceptance decisions have become increasingly complex and lack transparency and equality. Clinical scoring tools exist but there is limited consensus on their use. From a prospective observation of consecutive deceased-donor kidney offers in a large urban transplant centre, a simple score was developed based on donor age and other risk characteristics, excluding ischemia time and graft histology. The score was validated in subsequent cohorts of consecutive offers in the United Kingdom and Germany. In the development cohort of 389 kidney offers, 110 (28%) were transplanted and 175 (45%) declined. Nine risk factors were incorporated into a score based on age, but adjusted for the number of risk factors present, making an “adjusted donor age,” with offers separated into equal quintiles by decade. The score was validated in a UK cohort of 380 subsequent offers, and a German cohort of 431 offers. In both cohorts adjusted donor age discriminated between favourable and poor post-transplant outcomes (C-statistic 0.77 in the United Kingdom, 95% CI 0.65–0.88, and 0.71 in Germany, 95% CI 0.64–0.77). Adjusted donor age is a simple score quantifying deceased donor kidney quality, which is consistent with current practice and predicts post-transplant outcome.
Coupling of Advanced Guidance and Robust Control for the Descent and Precise Landing of Reusable Launchers
Authors: De Oliveira Alice , Lavagna Michèle
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the coupling of successive convex optimization guidance with robust structured H∞ control for the descent and precise landing of Reusable Launch Vehicles (RLVs). More particularly, this Guidance and Control (G&C) system is foreseen to be integrated into a nonlinear six-degree-of-freedom RLV controlled dynamics simulator which covers the aerodynamic and powered descent phase until vertical landing of a first-stage rocket equipped with a thrust vector control system and steerable planar fins. A cost function strategy analysis is performed to find out the most efficient one to be implemented in closed-loop with the robust control system and the vehicle flight mechanics involved. In addition, the controller synthesis via structured H∞ is thoroughly described. The latter are built at different points of the descent trajectory using Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID)-like structures with feedback on the attitude angles, rates, and lateral body velocities. The architecture is verified through linear analyses as well as nonlinear cases with the aforementioned simulator, and the G&C approach is validated by comparing the performance and robustness with a baseline system in nominal conditions as well as in the presence of perturbations. The overall results show that the proposed G&C system represents a relevant candidate for realistic descent flight and precise landing phase for reusable launchers.
Comparative Genomic and Secretome Analysis of Phytophthora capsici Strains: Exploring Pathogenicity and Evolutionary Dynamics
Authors: Villanueva Oscar , Nguyen Hai D. T. , Ellouze Walid
Published: November 2024

Phytophthora capsici is a destructive oomycete pathogen that poses a significant threat to global agriculture by infecting a wide range of economically important crops in the Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae families. In Canada, the pathogen has been responsible for substantial losses in greenhouse and field-grown crops. Despite extensive worldwide research on P. capsici, little is known about the effector content and pathogenicity of the Canadian isolates. In this study, we sequenced and analyzed the genomes of two Canadian P. capsici strains, namely 55330 and 55898, and conducted a comparative secretome analysis with globally referenced strains LT1534 and LT263. The Canadian strains displayed smaller genomes at 57.3 Mb and 60.2 Mb compared to LT263 at 76 Mb, yet retained diverse effector repertoires, including RxLR and CRN effectors, and exhibited robust pathogenic potential. Our analysis revealed that while the Canadian strains have fewer unique effector clusters compared to LT263, they possess comparable CAZyme profiles, emphasizing their capacity to degrade plant cell walls and promote infection. The differences in effector content likely reflect host adaptation, as P. capsici infects a variety of plant species. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic features of Canadian P. capsici isolates and offers a foundation for future efforts in developing targeted disease-management strategies.
Influence of Population Biomass Accumulation During Different Growth Periods on Agronomic Traits and Cotton Yield
Authors: Ding Junfeng , Ji Mingyu , Alkahtani Jawaher , Li Hanjia , Liu Yuting , Zhou Fuqin , Zhao Zixu , Dong Shu , Chen Yuan , Zhang Xiang , Chen Dehua , Chen Yuan
Published: November 2024

Increased output per unit area is the main goal of cotton producers worldwide, and the determination of biomass for high-yield cotton production is most important index. Cotton plants were grown at five densities (2.25, 3.0, 3.75, 4.5, and 5.25 × 104 plants ha−1). The relationships between the lint yield, construction of vegetative and reproductive organs and the population biomass were investigated. The results indicated that the maximum lint yield could be obtained at an appropriate population biomass before peak flowering and that the maximum lint yield increased with the biomass after peak flowering. When a lint yield above 1875.0 kg ha−1 was achieved, the biomass was at 657.0, 2317.3 and 5398.0 kg ha−1 for peak squaring, early flowering and peak flowering, respectively, whereas it surpassed 11,977.4 kg ha−1 and 15,365.8 kg ha−1 for the biomass at peak boll-setting and during the boll open period, respectively. This study indicated that moderate biomass accumulation before peak flowering and higher population biomass accumulation after peak flowering could achieve high lint yield because of the construction of optimum plant height, maximum and suitable LAI, maximum fruiting branches and boll weight before peak flowering, the highest effective fruiting node number and the population boll number after peak flowering. The results suggest that agronomic measurements could be implemented according to population biomass dynamics of high yield during the main growth stages.
Molecular and Functional Analysis of the Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase (SCD) Gene in Buffalo: Implications for Milk Fat Synthesis
Authors: Dao Wenbin , Fan Xinyang , Liang Jianping , Chen Tao , Chang Zaoshang , Zhang Yongyun , Miao Yongwang
Published: November 2024

The SCD is a rate-limiting enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) in dairy cows; however, its role in the mammary gland of buffalo is not well understood. In this study, we isolated and characterized the complete coding sequence (CDS) of the buffalo SCD gene from mammary gland tissue and investigated its effects on milk fat synthesis using bioinformatics analyses, tissue differential expression detection, and cellular functional experiments. The cloned SCD gene has a CDS length of 1080 bp, encoding a protein of 359 amino acids. This protein is hydrophilic, lacks a signal peptide, and contains four transmembrane domains, including 10 conserved motifs and a Delta9-FADS domain, characteristic of the fatty acid desaturase family involved in unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis within the endoplasmic reticulum. Molecular characterization revealed that the physicochemical properties, conserved domains, structures, and functions of buffalo SCD are highly similar to those in other Bovidae species. Among the tissues analyzed, SCD expression was highest in the mammary gland during lactation and in the cerebellum during dry-off period. Notably, SCD expression in the mammary gland was significantly higher during lactation compared to the dry-off period. Subcellular localization experiments confirmed that SCD functions in the endoplasmic reticulum of buffalo mammary epithelial cells (BuMECs). Functional overexpression and interference experiments in BuMECs demonstrated that SCD promotes milk fat synthesis by affecting the expression of lipid synthesis-related genes such as ACACA, FASN, and DGAT1, as well as milk fat regulatory genes like SREBFs and PPARG, thereby influencing intracellular triglyceride (TAG) content. Additionally, 18 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in the buffalo SCD gene, with a specific SNP at c.-605, showing potential as molecular markers for improving milk production traits. These findings highlight that the SCD gene is a key gene in buffalo milk fat synthesis, involved in the de novo synthesis of milk fatty acids.
Unveiling the Hidden Causes: Identifying the Drivers of Human–Elephant Conflict in Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Western Ghats, Southern India
Authors: Baskaran Nagarajan , Sathishkumar Selvarasu , Vanitha Varadharajan , Arjun Mani , Keerthi Perumal , Bandhala Nikshepan Goud
Published: November 2024

Since the human population is growing beyond the earth’s ability to sustain it, more people are being brought into contact with wildlife, leading to increasing human–wildlife conflict. The Asian elephant, a wide-ranging megaherbivore, is being increasingly threatened by human–elephant conflict [HEC]. Its conservation depends on identifying the causes of HEC and implement measure to mitigate the HEC effectively. We studied the drivers of HEC among five forest divisions in Western Ghats, India, that support a high density of elephants across Asia. Comparing the last six years’ data on HEC with 26 ecological covariates in the GLMM framework, we identified spatiotemporal variations and drivers of crop, and property damages and human casualties. Spatially, HEC was highest in the territorial division and lowest in those declared as Protected Areas earlier. The comparison of crop damage with covariates showed that crop damage decreased with the grass biomass index, elephant density, extent of dry-thorn, and deciduous habitats, and forest range area, while it increased with adult male % and forest range perimeter. Similarly, the property damage by elephants increased with crop damage frequency and human settlement/cultivation area, but decreased with grass biomass, forest range area, and deciduous habitat area. Human casualties due to elephants increased with property damage, ambient temperature, and forest range perimeter, but decreased with grass biomass. Overall, the decrease in HEC with grass biomass, and the increase in HEC with human settlement and forest range perimeter indicate that anthropogenic pressure that decreases the grass biomass and degrades the habitat is the likely root cause of HEC, and minimizing it would reduce overall HEC.
RF Exposure Assessment by Drone-Based Technology
Authors: Paniagua-Sánchez Jesús M. , Marabel-Calderón Christopher , García-Cobos Francisco J. , Gordillo-Guerrero Antonio , Rufo-Pérez Montaña , Jiménez-Barco Antonio
Published: November 2024

There is growing international interest in assessing population exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, especially those generated by mobile-phone base stations. The work presented here is an experimental study in which we assess exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields in a university environment, where there is a site with mobile-phone antennas and where a large number of people live on a daily basis. The data were collected with a personal exposure meter in two samplings, one walking at ground level and the other using an aerial vehicle at a height higher than the buildings. The geo-referenced electric-field data were subjected to a process in which a theoretical model was adjusted to the experimental variograms, and heat maps were obtained using kriging interpolation. The research carried out is of great relevance, since it provides detailed measurements of the electromagnetic radiation levels both at ground level and at significant heights, using innovative methodologies such as the use of drones. Furthermore, the results obtained allow for contextualizing the exposures in relation to international safety limits, highlighting the importance of rigorous monitoring in everyday environments.
Formation Mechanism of Crystal Spots in Jian Kiln Oil-Spot Glaze Revealed by Simulation Experiments
Authors: Jiang Caishui , Wu Junming , Zhou Jianer , Luo Ting , Bao Qifu , Liu Kun
Published: November 2024

The crystalline morphology and glaze color of Jian Kiln oil-spot glaze porcelain exhibit artistic beauty, making it one of the typical representatives of iron-based crystallized black porcelain from the Song Dynasty in China. This study sampled a series of specimens from key temperature points during simulation experiments, employing rapid air quenching to preserve the high-temperature state, capturing the formation process of oil-spot glaze crystals in Jian kiln ceramics. Key samples were subjected to microscopic structure and phase analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser Raman spectroscopy (LRS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), revealing the formation mechanism of oil-spot glaze crystals in Jian kiln ceramics. The results indicate that the bubbles generated from the decomposition of iron oxide at high temperatures facilitate the migration and enrichment of iron-rich particles towards the glaze surface, laying a crucial material foundation for the subsequent crystallization process. The high-temperature reducing atmosphere accelerates the decomposition reaction of iron oxide, altering the concentration of Fe2+ in the glaze, the viscosity of the melt, and the surface tension, all of which are critical conditions that promote the formation of oil-spot glaze crystals. During the cooling phase, Fe3O4 nanocrystals oxidize into ε-Fe2O3 crystals, with external iron sources migrating inward to support ε-Fe2O3 crystal growth. This process gradually leads to the formation of micrometer-scale, leaf-shaped ε-Fe2O3 crystals that fully occupy the crystalline spots. The coloration of crystalline spots is closely tied to the size of the crystals. Thus, by adjusting the cooling regime, it is possible to create iron-based crystallization glazes with innovative color effects. Furthermore, this study offers significant insights for understanding the crystallization mechanisms of other ancient Chinese high-temperature iron-based crystallization glazes.
AI-Based RPA’s Work Automation Operation to Respond to Hacking Threats Using Collected Threat Logs
Authors: Kim Joosung , Kim Soo Hyun , Joe Inwhee
Published: November 2024

With the rapid acceleration of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, cyber threats have become increasingly frequent and complex. However, most public and private institutions still rely heavily on manual cybersecurity operations, which often lead to delayed responses and human errors, exposing critical vulnerabilities. A particular challenge lies in the inability to efficiently integrate and automate the analysis of threat logs collected from various sources, limiting the effectiveness of threat prediction and mitigation. To address these challenges, this study proposes an AI-based RPA (Robotic Process Automation) system designed to automate the collection, analysis, and dissemination of cyber threat logs. By minimizing human intervention, the proposed system significantly enhances real-time response capabilities and reduces errors. Additionally, standardizing and centralizing diverse log formats lays a foundation for the future development of AI models capable of predicting cyberattack patterns. This system is particularly well-suited for government and public organizations, offering a cost-effective solution that enhances cybersecurity while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructures. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed AI-based RPA system outperforms traditional manual systems in terms of log processing speed, prediction accuracy, and error reduction. This study highlights the critical role of automated AI-driven systems in enabling real-time threat response and prevention, presenting a practical and scalable approach for modern cybersecurity environments.
Study on Quality Assessment Methods for Enhanced Resolution Graph-Based Reconstructed Images in 3D Capacitance Tomography
Authors: Banasiak Robert , Bujnowicz Mateusz , Fabijańska Anna
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a novel approach to assessing the quality of 3D Electrical Capacitance Tomography (ECT) images. Such images are typically represented as irregular graphs. Thus, image quality metrics typically used with raster images do not straightforwardly apply to them. However, given the recent advancements in Graph Convolutional Neural Networks (GCNs) for improving ECT image reconstruction, reliable Quality Assessment methods are essential for comparing the performance of different GCN models. To address this need, this paper applied some existing image quality and similarity assessment methods designed for raster images to the graph-based representation of 3D ECT images. Specifically, attention was paid to the Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), the Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM), and measures based on image histograms. The proposed adaptations resulted in the development of tailored Graph Quality Assessment (GQA) techniques specifically designed for the graph-based nature of ECT images. The proposed GQA techniques were validated on 1042 phantoms and their corresponding Low-Quality (LQ) and High-Quality (HQ) reconstructions through a robust GQA benchmarking system, enabling a systematic comparison of various GQA methods. The evaluation of the proposed methods’ performances across this diverse dataset, by analyzing overall trends and specific case studies, is presented and discussed. Finally, we present our conclusions regarding the effectiveness of the proposed GQA methods, and we identify the most promising approach for assessing the quality of graph-based ECT images.
An Accurate Deep Learning-Based Computer-Aided Diagnosis System for Gastrointestinal Disease Detection Using Wireless Capsule Endoscopy Image Analysis
Authors: El-Ghany Sameh Abd , Mahmood Mahmood A. , Abd El-Aziz A. A.
Published: November 2024

Peptic ulcers and stomach cancer are common conditions that impact the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) has emerged as a widely used, noninvasive technique for diagnosing these issues, providing valuable insights through the detailed imaging of the GI tract. Therefore, an early and accurate diagnosis of GI diseases is crucial for effective treatment. This paper introduces the Intelligent Learning Rate Controller (ILRC) mechanism that optimizes the training of deep learning (DL) models by adaptively adjusting the learning rate (LR) based on training progress. This helps improve convergence speed and reduce the risk of overfitting. The ILRC was applied to four DL models: EfficientNet-B0, ResNet101v2, InceptionV3, and InceptionResNetV2. These models were further enhanced using transfer learning, freezing layers, fine-tuning techniques, residual learning, and modern regularization methods. The models were evaluated on two datasets, the Kvasir-Capsule and KVASIR v2 datasets, which contain WCE images. The results demonstrated that the models, particularly when using ILRC, outperformed existing state-of-the-art methods in accuracy. On the Kvasir-Capsule dataset, the models achieved accuracies of up to 99.906%, and on the Kvasir-v2 dataset, they achieved up to 98.062%. This combination of techniques offers a robust solution for automating the detection of GI abnormalities in WCE images, significantly enhancing diagnostic efficiency and accuracy in clinical settings.
General Network Framework for Mixture Raman Spectrum Identification Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Zhang Yilong , Wang Tianke , Du Kang , Chen Peng , Wang Haixia , Sun Haohao
Published: November 2024

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for identifying substances, yet accurately analyzing mixtures remains challenging due to overlapping spectra. This study aimed to develop a deep learning-based framework to improve the identification of components in mixtures using Raman spectroscopy. We propose a three-branch feature fusion network that leverages spectral pairwise comparison and a multi-head self-attention mechanism to capture both local and global spectral features. To address limited data availability, traditional data augmentation techniques were combined with deep convolutional generative adversarial networks (DCGAN) to expand the dataset. Our framework significantly outperformed existing Raman spectroscopy-based methods in both qualitative and quantitative analyses. The model demonstrated superior accuracy compared to U-Net and ResNext, achieving higher detection accuracy for mixture components. This framework offers a promising solution for improving mixture identification in Raman spectroscopy, with potential applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food safety, and environmental monitoring.
Anti-Aging Performance and Action Mechanism of Asphalt Modified by Composite Modification
Authors: Liu Zhisheng , Sun Xiaolong , Xu Hualong , Lu Yuanyu , Su Zipeng , Ye Yuanchang , Huang Guoxuan
Published: November 2024

In order to evaluate the effect and mechanism of composite modifiers on the anti-aging property of asphalt, this study selected hydrotalcite and ultraviolet absorber as anti-aging modifiers to prepare different types of modified asphalt and carry out ultraviolet aging treatment. The effects of composite modification on the physical and rheological properties of asphalt under ultraviolet aging conditions were studied by three indices and by dynamic shear rheometer. The distribution and interaction characteristics of composite modifiers in asphalt matrix were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to analyze the changes in functional groups and characteristic parameters in the compound modified asphalt. Based on this, a molecular dynamics model of the compound modified asphalt was constructed, and the changes in solubility parameters, free volume, and mean azimuth shift were analyzed. The results show that the addition of the compound modifier can significantly improve the UV aging resistance of asphalt, mainly by controlling the asphalt components and characteristic functional groups, and the good compatibility between the modifier and asphalt ensures the modification effect.
Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activities of Three Bulgarian Garden Thyme Essential Oils
Authors: Dobreva Krasimira , Dimov Milen , Valev Tsvetan , Iliev Ivan , Damyanova Stanka , Oprea Oana Bianca , Stoyanova Albena
Published: November 2024

Garden thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) is an annual herbaceous plant of the family Lamiaceae. It can be found both in the wild and as a cultivated plant in Bulgaria. This study is aimed at assessing the garden thyme essential oil composition and antioxidant activities, which were collected from three different areas in Bulgaria. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The main compounds in the garden thyme essential oils (over 2%) were as follows: thymol (42.88–53.55%), p-cymene (14.25–25.51%), γ-terpinene (6.58–15.51%), borneol (2.75–3.57%), carvacrol (2.00–3.02%), β-linalool (2.07–2.31%), cis-sabinene hydrate (4.05%), eucalyptol (1.08–3.65%), α-terpinene (1.01–3.24%), carvacrol methyl ether (1.18–3.02%), and thymol methyl ether (2.26–3.16%). The oils were mainly composed of oxygenated phenyl propanoids, and all the essential oils belonged to the chemotype thymol. Antioxidant activities were measured by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical) and ABTS [2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] assays. All the samples exhibited antioxidant activity relative to the DPPH radical (from 143.20 mM TE/mL to 165.91 mM TE/mL) and by the ABTS method (from 121.67 mM TE/mL to 127.62 mM TE/mL). These garden thyme essential oils could be used as natural antioxidants for food and as nutraceuticals.