bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of three forages as a source of fiber in diets of fattening rabbits in Aguascalientes, Mexico
Authors: MEJIA HARO IGNACIO , GONZALEZ REYES MONICA , TIRADO GONZALEZ DELI NAZMIN , SILOS ESPINO HECTOR , RAMOS DAVILA MAURICIO , PINALES JIMENEZ FRANCISCO JAVIER , TIRADO ESTRADA GUSTAVO
Published: August 2024

Objective: To evaluate three forages as a source of fiber in the diets of fattening rabbits.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Whole grain diets with forage oat, mesquite pod, and alfalfa were used. Thirty-six weaned male rabbits were randomly distributed into three treatments (T1, forage oat diet; T2, mesquite pod diet; T3, alfalfa diet). Feed consumption, daily weight gain, total weight gain, and feed conversion were recorded. The animals were slaughtered to evaluate carcass yield. The data were statistically evaluated by analysis of variance and Tukey’s test.
Results: T1 recorded greater fattening than both T2 and T3 (P<0.05) and the last treatment surpassed T2 in daily weight gain, total weight gain, and feed digestibility. Regarding feed conversion, T1 and T3 had lower results than T2. In carcass yield, T1 was higher than T2 and T3 —which, on its turn, surpassed T2. Finally, no differences were observed in feed consumption between treatments (P> 0.05). There were also no significant differences in growth.
Study Limitations/Implications: Mexicans have a low consumption of rabbit meat. The mesquite pod could be a viable alternative due to its low cost and availability in semi-arid areas.
Findings/Conclusions: Forage oat recorded the best productive parameters, followed by alfalfa and mesquite pod; however, the latter had a greater economic advantage.
Applications of nanoparticles in veterinary science: A promising technology for animal health
Authors: Ortega Cerrilla Maria Esther , Rodríguez-Marín Erik , Castillo-Juárez Israel , Crosby-Galván Elsa Margarita , Herrera-Haro José Guadalupe , Miranda-Jiménez Leonor
Published: August 2024

Objective: To revise and describe the importance of nanoparticles in veterinary sciences to improve the health and welfare of animals.
Design/methodology/approach: The use of nanoparticles in veterinary sciences has the aim of using the unique properties of these structures at the nanometer level in order to solve medical and therapeutic problems in the field of veterinary medicine.
Limitations on study/implications: Although the nanoparticles have great potential in veterinary medicine, they also have certain limitations that must be considered in their application, among which the following stand out: bioavailability, distribution, toxicity, immunologic interactions, and costs.
Conclusions: The field of veterinary medicine is in constant evolution, which is why nanoparticles have become a cutting-age tool with transforming potential. Their application in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases offers ways to improve animal health and welfare. The continuous search for solid research and solutions to overcome the limitations will allow taking advantage of all the potential of these technologies.
Economic evaluation of the “Healthy Water for La Laguna” project
Authors: Guerrero-Borrás Luis Ángel , Mora-Flores José Saturnino , García-Salazar José Alberto , Ramírez-Valverde Gustavo
Published: August 2024

Objective: To identify the costs and benefits attributable to the “Healthy Water for La Laguna” project, quantifying and evaluating them throughout their useful life, with the aim of judging the convenience of conducting this project.
Design/methodology/approach: An Economic-Financial Evaluation was conducted determining the main economic indicators: Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Net Present Value (NPV), and Cost-Benefit Rate (C/B R).
Results: The project “Healthy Water for La Laguna” was profitable given the following indicators: Social Net Present Value of $26´819,451,175 in a horizon of evaluation of 34 years considering a discount rate of 10%, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 35.29%, and a Benefit-Cost Rate of 2.8. In the sensitivity analysis, it was determined that the project shows a low sensitivity to the increase in investment and operation costs. However, it was seen that the variable that could have the most significant impact is that of benefits, since a reduction of more than 64.33% would make the Net Present Value (NPV) lower than zero.
Limitations on study/implications: The one limitation found in the study was the lack of information, since some missing data had to be estimated.
Findings/conclusions: It can be concluded that the execution of the project is essential and necessary to achieve an immediate increase in the consumption of drinking water in the locations covered by the project, in addition to serving as a departure point to improve the quality of the water used and to reduce the impacts of overexploitation.
The Effect of Physical Exercise on Quality of Life in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Armelia Linda
Published: August 2024

Background: Chronic kidney disease leads to a progressive and irreversible decline in kidney function, necessitating lifelong treatments such as dialysis or kidney transplantation. Patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) often encounter challenges such as muscle weakness, which can frequently precipitate feelings of hopelessness and premature aging. These challenges can lead to medical, social, economic, and psychological issues that profoundly affect their quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of physical exercise on the quality of life of patients undergoing HD. Methods: This research was a correlational study using a cross-sectional approach. The population comprised chronic kidney disease patients undergoing HD at Anna Medika Hospital, Bekasi. There were 38 respondents who met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of the research data was conducted using the Wilcoxon test. Results: The study yielded quality of life results after physical exercise, with both the good and moderate categories showing the same result of 47.4%, while the bad category had 5.3%. Conclusion: There is a significant improvement in quality of life after physical training compared to before.
Trajectory and contradictions of the Attention to Agricultural Workers Program in Hermosillo, Sonora, 1990-2018
Authors:   Universidad de California en Santa Bárbara, Rodríguez Solís Gerardo
Published: August 2024

The article presents the history of the Attention to Agricultural Workers Program (PAJA) in Hermosillo, Sonora, now extinct. The goal is to explain this federal pro-gram, that focused on agricultural work by migrants, as a part of the formation of a neoliberal state in Mexico. Using political anthropology, the article analyzes the set of practices, ideologies, and representations of the state that gave the PAJA its shape from 1990 to 2018. The text derives from a historical and regional ethnographic study made between 2018 and 2023 on social policies applied to agricultural land in Sonora. The article draws on interviews with former PAJA employees, participant observation in government offices, and the consultation of official documents. The main argument is that the PAJA served to promote the expansion and consolidation of agricultural corporations. The article contributes to studies of the state and migrant agricultural work, by presenting processes of depoliticization, control, and legitimization of the exploitation of labor on agricultural land
Presente y futuro de la micro, pequeña y mediana empresa desde una perspectiva holística
Authors:   Universidad de Guadalajara, Alarcón Osuna Moisés Alejandro , Ocampo Figueroa Luis Ernesto ,   Universidad de Guadalajara, Guzmán Anaya Leo ,   Universidad de Guadalajara
Published: August 2024

The study of micro, small, and medium enterprises (msmes) reveals a significant het-erogeneity in approaches, reflected in multiple perspectives such as social, administra-tive, economic, among others. This diversity has driven the application of a wide range of techniques and methodologies, from qualitative research to quantitative studies. Research on msmes in a post-pandemic scenario is multidisciplinary and adaptable to the complexities of the sector, enriching our current and future understanding of these enterprises. Furthermore, the global perspective of business internationalization stands out in a context of value chain integration and nearshoring, while local issues such as family business management and support for social enterprises are also crucial for their development. This duality highlights the need for ongoing dialogue among different academic studies on msmes to effectively address the challenges and oppor-tunities in this constantly evolving sector.
Pelaksanaan Pendekatan Saintifik dalam Proses Pembelajaran di PAUD Se-Gugus Sedap Malam Kota Bengkulu
Authors: Nada Elok Qotrun , Saparahayuningsih Sri , Ardina Mona Ardina
Published: August 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mendeskripsikan bagaimana pelaksanaan pendekatan saintifik dalam proses pembelajaran oleh guru Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini se-Gugus Sedap Malam Kota Bengkulu. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan jenis metode deskriptif survei. Populasi dan sampel dalam penelitian ini yaitu guru di PAUD se-Gugus Sedap Malam Kota Bengkulu, dengan jumlah sampel penelitian sebanyak 29 orang. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan nonprobability sampling. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan angket dan teknik analisis data menggunakan rumus nilai rata-rata dan persentase. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa secara umum guru di PAUD se-Gugus Sedap Malam Kota Bengkulu telah melaksanakan pendekatan saintifik dalam proses pembelajaran dengan kategori selalu. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian tersebut, disarankan bagi guru untuk konsisten melaksanakan pendekatan saintifik dalam proses pembelajaran serta memaksimalkan pelaksanaannya seperti dengan memerhatikan segi perencanaan maupun evaluasi pendekatan saintifik dalam proses pembelajaran yang telah dilaksanakan.
Acoustic telemetry captures the full annual migration of alewife between Chesapeake Bay and the Gulf of Maine
Authors: Ogburn MB , Legett HD , Aguilar R , Furey NB , Heggie K , Livernois MC , Richie KD
Published: August 2024

Anadromous fish are declining at a global scale, and a more holistic approach to management is needed that addresses threats across their freshwater, estuarine, and ocean habitats. In this study, we used acoustic telemetry to track adult alewife Alosa pseudoharengus in Chesapeake Bay, USA, to evaluate, for the first time, habitat use throughout the entire annual migration cycle. Fifty adult alewife were tagged in the Choptank River, Maryland, in spring 2022, and detection data were obtained via collaborative acoustic telemetry networks along the Eastern Seaboard of the USA and Canada. Water temperature data were also collected using data loggers in the Choptank River and from satellite measurements of sea surface temperature in Chesapeake Bay and the ocean. In total, 48 tags (96%) were detected at least once, 14 tagged fish (28%) were detected in the ocean migrating north to the Gulf of Maine and Bay of Fundy, and 5 tagged fish (10%) returned to the Choptank River in spring 2023. With few exceptions, tagged fish were detected at temperatures of 7-16°C across all habitats (river to ocean and back). Alewife made extensive use of tidal and non-tidal portions of the Choptank River during spring, migrated to summer habitats that are experiencing rapid warming, and passed through areas of high incidental catch on both the outgoing and return migration. This study highlights how acoustic telemetry can refine our understanding of river-specific migrations of anadromous fish and the management implications of their movements in regions with collaborative acoustic telemetry networks.
The role of leptin in human physiology and pathophysiology
Authors: Janečková R
Published: August 2024

This review focuses on current knowledge of leptin biology and the role of leptin in various physiological and pathophysiological states. Leptin is involved in the regulation of body weight. Serum leptin can probably be considered as one of the best biological markers reflecting total body fat in both animals and humans. Obesity in man is accompanied by increased circulating leptin concentrations. Gender differences clearly exist. Leptin is not only correlated to a series of endocrine parameters such as insulin, glucocorticoids, thyroid hormones, testosterone, but it also seems to be involved in mediating some endocrine mechanisms (onset of puberty, insulin secretion) and diseases (obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome). It has also been suggested that leptin can act as a growth factor in the fetus and the neonate.
Lactate dehydrogenase activity in human placenta following exposure to environmental pollutants.
Authors: Kaiglová A , Reichrtová E , Adamčáková A , Wsólová L
Published: August 2024

The impact of environmental pollution at the place of residence of pregnant women and of their smoking habits on the cellular energy metabolism of placental tissue was investigated. Samples of full-term placentas were randomly collected from two environmentally different regions of Slovakia (Bratislava, Stará Ľubovňa) and the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was measured. Our results showed enhanced LDH activity in the placenta that was dependent on both the type of environmental pollutants at the place of residence and the smoking habits during pregnancy. The enhanced LDH activity may reflect hypoxic conditions due to the accumulation of heavy metals and toxic compounds of tobacco smoke in the placental tissue. A high content of heavy metal particles, found in placental samples from Stará Ľubovňa in our previous studies, might contribute to the increased LDH activity in placentas from this region. We hypothesize that fine metal particles deposited in the placental tissue might be phagocytozed by the syncytiotrophoblast, thus contributing to the decreased oxygen level in placental tissue.
Implementation of The Lake Paisu Pok Tourism Development Policy (Challenges and Recommendations for Enhancing Tourist Attraction)
Authors: Kurnia Intam , Irfan Muhammad , Intan Kumbayoni Ni Gusti Putu , Fiki Ferianto  , Ruliyanti  , Badollahi Muh. Zainuddin
Published: August 2024

This research aims to analyze the implementation of the flagship tourism development policy at Lake Paisu Pok. The research method used is a case study with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with various stakeholders, field observations, and documentary studies. The results of the research indicate that the implementation of the flagship tourism development policy at Lake Paisu Pok has achieved several achievements but still faces several challenges, such as a lack of supporting infrastructure, suboptimal coordination among relevant agencies, and ineffective tourism promotion and marketing. Based on these findings, it is recommended that local governments and various stakeholders improve coordination and cross-sectoral cooperation, enhance supporting infrastructure, and improve tourism promotion and marketing to enhance Lake Paisu Pok's attractiveness as a flagship tourism destination.
Mimetic Resentment's Violent Somatechnics in Permacrisis Times: Critical Cartographical Contours and Coordinates
Authors: Geerts Evelien , Carstens Delphi
Published: August 2024

Our current era of crisis and neo-fascist revanches (see Lawtoo 2019 ) is rife with desires-driven mimesis, and more specifically, mimetic resentment or conflictual copycat behaviour. Traditionally conceptualised in relation to ressentiment, mimetic resentment (see Nietzsche [1887]2006; Girard [1961]1965 , [1977]1992 , and [1978]1987) is seldom analysed as a somatechnical phenomenon that meshes the corporeal and the technological ( Sullivan 2005 ; Pugliese and Stryker 2009 ; Sullivan and Murray 2011 ), involving pre-personal and affective micropolitics, as well as social and environmental macropolitical characteristics. This article therefore seeks to map out resentment's contemporary somatechnics by attending to its violence-engendering micropolitics in addition to the macrolevels of the permacrisis times it is said to be operating in. The burgeoning environmental crisis that is currently unfolding against the backdrop of these permacrisis times furthermore indicates that such a mapping exercise must consider both the micro- and macropolitical nuances of how zoē/ bios classifications and resultant gaps between non/human actors are created and sustained. Finding such a nuanced eco-focused framework in Deleuzoguattarian philosophy (see Deleuze [1969]1990 ; Deleuze and Guattari [1980]2005 ; Guattari [1989]2000 and [1992]2002) , as well as contemporary critical new materialist thought (see Cooper 2008 ; Braidotti 2013 ; Haraway 2016 ; and Yusoff 2018 ), we first examine these permacrisis times before presenting a critical cartography ( Braidotti [1994]2011 ; Deleuze and Guattari [1980]2005) of the contours of mimetic resentment's violent micro- and macropolitical somatechnics, to then explore several eco-focused Deleuzoguattarian and critical new materialist pathways that could lead us out of the spiralling vortex of violence that characterises this time of planetary trouble.
Eerie Captures of Violence and Memetic Rhythmicality of Resistance during the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ Movement
Authors: Khosravi Ooryad Sama
Published: August 2024

This article adopts media-theoretical and somatechnics-focused approaches, as well as a post-cinematic framework to unpack the mediated, intimate, affective, memetic, and rhythmic ways in which the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ revolts and their violent suppression unfolded on- and off-screen. In this article, I ask the following questions: How can we understand violence in the hyper-mediated era of bodies capturing their own deaths online? What kinds of affects emerge from these mediated entanglements? And how can the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ feminist revolts complicate our understanding of the affective, post-cinematic, and somatechnical ways in which bodies and technologies emerge and converge, sometimes in violent ways? Through a conceptual analysis of Instagram and YouTube videos depicting marginalised subjects who were killed onscreen in Iran, or who posthumously appear joyous and alive through their mediated presence, I investigate the eerie affects of violence and mobilise the notion of memetic rhythmicality to unpack the novel ways in which resistance to structural violence are being enacted. To demonstrate the implications of the mediated capture of violence, as well as the new forms of resistance – for processes of feminist, political, and somatechnical becomings – I draw on somatechnical and hauntological theories ( Derrida [1993]1994 ; Mulvey 2006 ; Sullivan and Murray 2011; del Pilar Blanco and Peeren 2013 ; Cielemeçka 2015 ; Carstens 2020 ; and Geerts 2021 ), Mark Fisher’s (2016) notion of ‘the eerie,’ the Deleuzoguattarian ([1980]1987) concept of a Body without Organs, and Steven Shaviro’s (2023) ‘rhythm image.’
Pengaruh Berbagai Bahan Organik dan Pupuk ZA pada Metode Double Digging Terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Bawang Merah Varietas Lembah Palu (Allium cepa L. Var. Aggregatum)
Authors: Tanari Yulinda , Prabowo Bayu Aji , Mowidu Ita
Published: August 2024

Bawang merah merupakan komoditas unggulan sayuran di Indonesia sehingga perlu dibudidayakan secara intensif. Pengolahan tanah dan pemupukan merupakan teknologi yang dapat diterapkan untuk meningkatkan produksi bawang merah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh kombinasi bahan organik dan pupuk ZA pada metode double digging terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil tanaman bawang merah varietas Lembah Palu. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Desa Sintuwu Lemba Kecamatan Lage Kabupaten Poso dari bulan Februari hingga Juni 2020. Penelitian menggunakan rancangan lingkungan Rancangan Acak kelompok pola faktorial dua faktor yaitu faktor pertama adalah penggunaan bahan organik (tanpa bahan organik, daun gamal, batang pisang dan jerami padi) dan faktor kedua adalah dosis pupuk ZA (tanpa ZA dan 400 kg/ha). Kesimpulan dari penelitian ini adalah terdapat interaksi yang nyata antara jenis bahan organik dan pupuk ZA pada metode double digging. Penggunaan jerami padi tanpa aplikasi pupuk ZA pada metode double digging memberikan hasil tertinggi sebesar 2,82 ton/ha. Jenis bahan organik jerami padi memberikan rata-rata pertumbuhan dan hasil bawang merah yang tertinggi meskipun berbeda tidak nyata dengan daun gamal dan batang pisang. Aplikasi pupuk ZA berpengaruh tidak nyata terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil bawang merah.
 
Kata kunci: bahan organik, bawang merah, double digging, pupuk ZA
ACL reconstruction combined with anterolateral structures reconstruction for treating ACL rupture and knee injuries: a finite element analysis
Authors: Wang Huizhi , Yao Gai , He Kaixin , Wang Zimin , Cheng Cheng-Kung
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The biomechanical indication for combining anterolateral structures reconstruction (ASLR) with ACL reconstruction (ACLR) to reduce pivot shift in the knee remains unclear. This study aims to investigate knee functionality after ACL rupture with different combinations of injuries, and to compare the effectiveness of ALSR with ACLR for treating these injuries.

Methods: A validated finite element model of a human cadaveric knee was used to simulate pivot shift tests on the joint in different states, including 1) an intact knee; 2) after isolated ACL rupture; 3) after ACL rupture combined with different knee injuries or defect, including a posterior tibial slope (PTS) of 20°, an injury to the anterolateral structures (ALS) and an injury to the posterior meniscotibial ligament of the lateral meniscus (LP); 4) after treating the different injuries using isolated ACLR; v. after treating the different injuries using ACLR with ALSR. The knee kinematics, maximum von Mises stress (Max.S) on the tibial articular cartilage (TC) and force in the ACL graft were compared among the different simulation groups.

Results and discussion: Comparing with isolated ACL rupture, combined injury to the ALS caused the largest knee laxity, when a combined PTS of 20° induced the largest Max.S on the TC. The joint stability and Max.S on the TC in the knee with an isolated ACL rupture or a combined rupture of ACL and LP were restored to the intact level after being treated with isolated ACLR. The knee biomechanics after a combined rupture of ACL and ALS were restored to the intact level only when being treated with a combination of ACLR and ALSR using a large graft diameter (6 mm) for ALSR. However, for the knee after ACL rupture combined with a PTS of 20°, the ATT and Max.S on the TC were still greater than the intact knee even after being treated with a combination of ACLR and ALSR. The finite element analysis showed that ACLR should include ALSR when treating ACL ruptures accompanied by ALS rupture. However, pivot shift in knees with a PTS of 20° was not eliminated even after a combined ACLR and ALSR.
Maximising the value of hyperspectral drill core scanning through real-time processing and analysis
Authors: Thiele Samuel T. , Kirsch Moritz , Lorenz Sandra , Saffi Houda , El Alami Safia , Contreras Acosta Isabel Cecilia , Madriz Yuleika , Gloaguen Richard
Published: August 2024

Hyperspectral imaging is gaining widespread use in the resource sector, with applications in mineral exploration, geometallurgy and mine mapping. However, the sheer size of many hyperspectral datasets (>1 Tb) and associated correction, visualisation and analysis challenges can limit the integration of this technique into time-critical exploration and mining workflows. In this contribution, we propose and demonstrate a novel open-source workflow for rapidly processing hyperspectral data acquired on exploration drillcores. The resulting products are adaptable to the varied needs of geologists, geophysicists and geological engineers, facilitating better integration of hyperspectral data during decision making. These tools are applied to process hyperspectral data of 6.4 km of exploration drill cores from Stonepark (Ireland), Collinstown (Ireland) and Spremberg (Germany). The results are presented via an open-source web-viewing platform that we have developed to facilitate easy on and off-site access to hyperspectral data and its derivatives. We suggest that maximum value can be extracted from hyperspectral data if it is acquired shortly after drilling and processed on-site in real time, so that results can be quickly validated and used to inform time-critical decisions on sample selection, geological interpretation (logging) and drillhole continuation or termination. This timeliness and accessibility is key to ensure rapid data availability for decision makers during mineral exploration and exploitation. Finally, we discuss several remaining challenges that limit the real-time integration of hyperspectral drill core scanning data, and explore some opportunities that may arise as these rich datasets become more widely collected.
RETRACTED: Mendelian randomization based on immune cells in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Zhou Ye , Zhang Hengyan , Yan Heguo , Huang Changxing , Liu Yangwen
Published: August 2024

Background

DKD, a leading cause of chronic kidney and end-stage renal disease, lacks robust immunological research. Recent GWAS utilizing SNPs and CNVs has shed light on immune mechanisms of kidney diseases. However, DKD’s immunological basis remains elusive. Our goal is to unravel cause-effect relationships between immune cells and DKD using Mendelian randomization.

Methodology

We analyzed FinnGen data (1032 DKD cases, 451,248 controls) with 731 immunocyte GWAS summaries (MP=32, MFI=389, AC=118, RC=192). We employed forward and reverse Mendelian randomization to explore causal links between immune cell traits and DKD. Sensitivity analysis ensured robustness, heterogeneity checks, and FDR correction minimized false positives.

Results

Our study explored the causal link between diabetic nephropathy (DKD) and immunophenotypes using two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) with IVW. Nine immunophenotypes were significantly associated with DKD at p<0.05 after FDR correction. Elevated CD24, CD3 in Treg subsets, CD39+ CD4+, and CD33− HLA DR− AC correlated positively with DKD risk, while CD27 in B cells and SSC−A in CD4+ inversely correlated. Notably, while none showed significant protection, further research on immune cells’ role in DKD may provide valuable insights.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that the immune cells are closely related to DKD, which may be helpful in the future clinical study.
Study on spatio-temporal evolution of ecosystem services, spatio-temporal pattern of tradeoff/synergy relationship and its driving factors in Shendong mining area
Authors: Chen Zhichao , Zhu Zhenyao , Zhang Xufei , Jiao Yiheng , Cheng Yiqiang , Wang Shidong , Zhang Hebing
Published: August 2024

Objectives: The game between socio-economic development and ecological development has always been the core issue in coal areas, but the internal mechanism of tradeoff and cooperative dynamic change of ecosystem services in mining areas under long-term mineral resources development is still lacking in in-depth research.

Methods: Therefore, taking Shendong mining area as an example, this study used InVEST model to evaluate the changes of four major ecosystem service functions in Shendong mining area from 1990 to 2020, namely, water yield (WY), net primary productivity (NPP), soil conservation (SC) and habitat quality (HQ). Meanwhile, correlation analysis was used to explore the trade-off and synergistic relationship among these services. On this basis, the coupling effect between the four ecosystem services is further discussed by using the constraint line method. Finally, the key drivers of ecosystem service trade-offs/synergies in the region are explored by using geodetectors and the explanations of each influence factor for RMS errors are obtained.

Results: The results show that 1) from 1990 to 2020, the water yield and soil retention in the mining area decrease first and then increase, and the net primary productivity and habitat quality increase slowly, mainly in the southeast of the mining area. 2) In terms of constraint relationship, all the four ecosystem services showed hump-like constraint relationship, that is, there was obvious constraint threshold effect. 3) In the Shendong mining area, the synergistic relationship is the dominant relationship between ecosystem services, and the tradeoff effect mainly occurs between water yield and habitat quality. 4) In terms of the driving mechanism of tradeoff/synergy, land use type, temperature, and rainfall are the main factors that cause the spatial differentiation of tradeoff synergy intensity among ecosystem services in Shendong mining area.

Conclusions: The results of this study provide a scientific basis for the improvement of ecological environment and sustainable utilization of mineral resources under long-term exploitation.
Where are the provincial-level new records in China from the past 20 years, and which traits determine their shift directions?
Authors: Xing Xiaoying , Wang Xiaochen , Li Xiang , Lan Fangyuan , Deng Zhangwen , Li Yanqun , Li Qingyuan , Ding Zhifeng
Published: August 2024

Birds are sensitive to environmental changes and can drive range shifts rapidly due to their high mobility. Though previous studies have examined the associations between species traits and range shifts, whether species traits could still explain heterogeneity in shift directions remains poorly explored. Here, we compiled new bird records of China from 2000 to 2019 and analyzed species traits associated with apparent shift directions. We collected 350 provincial-level new records of birds belonging to 67 families of 22 orders. Of these, 32 are threatened, with 3 critically endangered, 11 endangered, and 18 vulnerable. Provinces in western China (i.e., Yunnan and Xizang) had relatively higher species richness of new recorded birds; this pattern was also reflected in the phylogenetic diversity we observed. In addition, provinces in northern China (i.e., Tianjin, Shandong, and Beijing) had relatively higher richness-controlled phylogenetic diversity. Phylogenetic overdispersion of new recorded bird communities was observed in 61.29% of provinces (19 of 31). The main shift directions indicated by new bird records were northward (with nearly 50% of birds moving NW, N and NE). Migration, hand-wing index (HWI), body mass, and range size are the four key factors that most significantly influence the shift directions in bird species, suggesting that bird movement toward newly suitable areas varies with species-specific traits. Together, these results demonstrate the importance of considering species ecological traits when predicting shift directions of birds.
The known and unknown about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) genetics: a special emphasis on Arab population
Authors: Mahrous Nahed N. , Albaqami Amirah , Saleem Rimah A. , Khoja Basmah , Khan Mohammed I. , Hawsawi Yousef M.
Published: August 2024

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by behavioral appearances such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity. The prevalence of ADHD is high in childhood when compared to adults. ADHD has been significantly advanced by genetic research over the past 25 years. However, it is logically conceivable that both genetic and/or non-genetic factors, such as postnatal environmental and social influences, are associated with ADHD phenotype in Arab populations. While genetic influences are strongly linked with the etiology of ADHD, it remains obscure how consanguinity which is an underlying factor for many genetic diseases, contributes to ADHD subtypes. Arabian Gulf Nations have one the highest rates of consanguineous marriages, and consanguinity plays an important contributing factor in many genetic diseases that exist in higher percentages in Arabian Gulf Nations. Therefore, the current review aims to shed light on the genetic variants associated with ADHD subtypes in Arabian Gulf nations and Saudi Arabia in particular. It also focuses on the symptoms and the diagnosis of ADHD before turning to the neuropsychological pathways and subgroups of ADHD. The impact of a consanguinity-based understanding of the ADHD subtype will help to understand the genetic variability of the Arabian Gulf population in comparison with the other parts of the world and will provide novel information to develop new avenues for future research in ADHD.
Evaluating in vivo approaches for studying the roles of thymic DCs in T cell development in mice
Authors: Wang Yi , Chong Mark M. W.
Published: August 2024

T cells express an enormous repertoire of T cell receptors, enabling them to recognize any potential antigen. This large repertoire undergoes stringent selections in the thymus, where receptors that react to self- or non-danger-associated- antigens are purged. We know that thymic tolerance depends on signals and antigens presented by the thymic antigen presenting cells, but we still do not understand precisely how many of these cells actually contribute to tolerance. This is especially true for thymic dendritic cells (DC), which are composed of diverse subpopulations that are derived from different progenitors. Although the importance of thymic DCs has long been known, the functions of specific DC subsets have been difficult to untangle. There remains insufficient systematic characterization of the ontogeny and phenotype of thymic APCs in general. As a result, validated experimental models for studying thymic DCs are limited. Recent technological advancement, such as multi-omics analyses, has enabled new insights into thymic DC biology. These recent findings indicate a need to re-evaluate the current tools used to study the function of these cells within the thymus. This review will discuss how thymic DC subpopulations can be defined, the models that have been used to assess functions in the thymus, and models developed for other settings that can be potentially used for studying thymic DCs.
Predicting significant wave height in the South China Sea using the SAC-ConvLSTM model
Authors: Hou Boyang , Fu Hanjiao , Li Xin , Song Tao , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The precise forecasting of Significant wave height(SWH) is vital to ensure the safety and efficiency of aquatic activities such as ocean engineering, shipping, and fishing.

Methods

This paper proposes a deep learning model named SAC-ConvLSTM to perform 24-hour prediction with the SWH in the South China Sea. The long-term prediction capability of the model is enhanced by using the attention mechanism and context vectors. The prediction ability of the model is evaluated by mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), mean square error (MSE), and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC).

Results

The experimental results show that the optimal input sequence length for the model is 12. Starting from 12 hours, the SAC-ConvLSTM model consistently outperforms other models in predictive performance. For the 24-hour prediction, this model achieves RMSE, MAE, and PCC values of 0.2117 m, 0.1083 m, and 0.9630, respectively. In addition, the introduction of wind can improve the accuracy of wave prediction. The SAC-ConvLSTM model also has good prediction performance compared to the ConvLSTM model during extreme weather, especially in coastal areas.

Discussion

This paper presents a 24-hour prediction of SWH in the South China Sea. Through comparative validation, the SAC-ConvLSTM model outperforms other models. The inclusion of wind data enhances the model's predictive capability. This model also performs well under extreme weather conditions. In physical oceanography, variables related to SWH include not only wind but also other factors such as mean wave period and sea surface air pressure. In the future, additional variables can be incorporated to further improve the model's predictive performance.
Spatial-temporal distribution and eutrophication evaluation of nutrients and trace metals in summer surface seawater of Yantai Sishili Bay, China
Authors: Rahman Md. Abdur , Pan Dawei , Lu Yuxi , Liang Yan
Published: August 2024

Due to coastal development expansion, an increasing influx of pollutants enters the sea through riverine input and land runoff, threatening coastal ecosystems and posing a risk of eutrophication. In this study, trace metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn), and nutrients (constituents of N, P, and Si) were assessed in the summer surface seawater of Yantai Sishili Bay (YSB), Northern China focusing on the determination of concentration, spatial-temporal distribution and sources identification, while exploring their correlations. It also aimed to clarify the eutrophication status and evaluate the linear relationships between eutrophication, trace metals, and nutrients in YSB. Over three years (2021–2023), the total dissolved concentrations of Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn ranged from 4.79–26.71, 0.19–6.41, 0.26–1.53, and 0.74–13.12 µg/L, respectively. Concurrently, nutrient concentrations including NO2-, NO3-, NH4+, PO43-, and DSi exhibited a range of 0.37–11.66, 2.04–178.30, 1.69–70.01, 0.02–16.68, and 0.02–0.71 µg/L respectively. These concentrations revealed a gradual decrease from nearshore to offshore and the temporal variation also showed significant patterns from year to year, indicating distinct regional variations. The primary contributors to the trace metals and nutrients in the study region were recognized as external contributions stemming from natural, anthropogenic, and atmospheric deposition through correlation and principal component analysis. More specifically, riverine input and coastal farming contributed large amounts of nutrients to coastal waters, threatening a potential risk of eutrophication. The eutrophication evaluation expressed below the mild eutrophication level and was far lower than the other global and Chinese bays. The linear correlation between eutrophication and trace metals revealed a weak positive correlation but a significant correlation with nutrients. Despite the absence of significant eutrophication in the bay, potential risks were identified due to identifiable sources of nutrient and trace metal inputs. The findings provided insights to guide efforts in preventing and mitigating coastal eutrophication, as well as nutrient and trace metal pollution, in coastal cities.
Identification of oxidative stress-related diagnostic markers and immune infiltration features for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis by bibliometrics and bioinformatics
Authors: Li Chang , An Qing , Jin Yi , Jiang Zefei , Li Meihe , Wu Xiaoling , Dang Huimin
Published: August 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) garners considerable attention due to its high fatality rate and profound impact on quality of life. Our study conducts a comprehensive literature review on IPF using bibliometric analysis to explore existing hot research topics, and identifies novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for IPF using bioinformatics analysis. Publications related to IPF from 2013 to 2023 were searched on the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Data analysis and visualization were conducted using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software primarily. The gene expression profiles GSE24206 and GSE53845 were employed as the training dataset. The GSE110147 dataset was employed as the validation dataset. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially expressed genes related to oxidative stress (DEOSGs) between IPF and normal samples. Then, we conducted Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. The hub genes were screened by protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks and machine learning algorithms. The CIBERSORT was used to analyze the immune infiltration of 22 kinds of immune cells. Finally, we conducted the expression and validation of hub genes. The diagnostic efficacy of hub genes was evaluated by employing Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves and the associations between hub genes and immune cells were analyzed. A total of 6,500 articles were identified, and the annual number of articles exhibited an upward trend. The United States emerged as the leading contributor in terms of publication count, institutional affiliations, highly cited articles, and prolific authorship. According to co-occurrence analysis, oxidative stress and inflammation are hot topics in IPF research. A total of 1,140 DEGs were identified, and 72 genes were classified as DEOSGs. By employing PPI network analysis and machine learning algorithms, PON2 and TLR4 were identified as hub genes. A total of 10 immune cells exhibited significant differences between IPF and normal samples. PON2 and TLR4, as oxidative stress-related genes, not only exhibit high diagnostic efficacy but also show close associations with immune cells. In summary, our study highlights oxidative stress and inflammation are hot topics in IPF research. Oxidative stress and immune cells play a vital role in the pathogenesis of IPF. Our findings suggest the potential of PON2 and TLR4 as novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for IPF.
Source and succession of microbial communities and tetramethylpyrazine during the brewing process of compound-flavor Baijiu
Authors: Cheng Wei , Lan Wei , Chen Xuefeng , Xue Xijia , Liang Huipeng , Zeng Huawei , Li Ruilong , Pan Tianquan , Li Na , Yang Hongwen
Published: August 2024

Pyrazines are important flavor components and healthy active components in Baijiu, which including tetramethylpyrazine (TTMP). During the brewing process, the traceability of microbial communities and the content distribution characteristics of TTMP are important for improving the quality and style characteristics of compound-flavored Baijiu (CFB). However, the traceability analysis of microorganisms in fermented grains (FG)—used in the production of CFB—lacks quantitative and systematic evaluation. In this study, the microbial communities and TTMP content of Jiuqu (JQ), Liangpei (LP), FG, and pit mud (CP) used in CFB production were characterized; further, coordinate and discriminant analyses were employed to determine differences in microbial communities. Additionally, traceability and correlation analyses were performed to reveal the origin of microbial communities in FG. The source, content, and distribution characteristics of TTMP based on the brewing process have also been discussed. The results showed that most of the bacterial and fungal communities at different levels of FG came from other sources, and the microorganisms of Cladosporium, Acetobacter, Aspergillus, Methanosarcina, and Bacillus were considered have a osculating correlations with TTMP content of FG. Taken together, this study provides insights into the origin of microbial communities in FG and the distribution characteristics of TTMP based on the CFB brewing process. The current findings are conducive for optimizing the fermentation process and improving the quality and style characteristics of CFB.
Short-term therapy with R568 ameliorated secondary hyperparathyroidism but does not prevent aortic valve calcification in uremic rats
Authors: Abu-Snieneh Asmahan , Gurt Irina , Abedat Suzan , Lotan Chaim , Glikson Michael , Shuvy Mony
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Renal failure associated aortic valve calcification (AVC) is the result of hyperphosphatemia and hyperparathyroidism. Calcimimetics is an effective tool for management of secondary hyperparathyroidism. Our goal was to evaluate the effect of the medical intervention with calcimimetic R568 on the AVC process.

Methods and results

The experimental design consisted of administering a uremia-inducing phosphate-enriched diet to rats for six weeks. Rats received a daily R568 injection at different times. Biochemical analysis demonstrated increased urea (34.72 ± 3.57 vs. 5.18 ± 0.15 mmol/L, p<0.05) and creatinine (293.93 ± 79.6 vs. 12.82 ± 1.56 µmol/L, p<0.05). R568 treatment markedly reduced parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in both treated groups (192.63 ± 26.85, 301.23 ± 101.79 vs. 3570 ± 986.63 pg/mL, p<0.05), with no impact on serum calcium and phosphate. von Kossa staining showed increase in AVC in uremic rats compared to control (1409 ± 159.5 vs. 27.33 ± 25.83, p<0.05). AVC was not affected by R568 in both groups (3343 ± 2462, 1593 ± 792 vs. 1409 ± 159.5, NS). Similarly, the inflammatory marker CD68 was elevated in uremic rats (15592 ± 3792 vs. 181.8 ± 15.29, p<0.01), and was not influenced by R568 treatment (8453 ± 818.5, 9318 ± 2232 vs. 15592 ± 3792, NS). Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), the regulator of osteoblast differentiation, was upregulated in uremic rats (23186 ± 9226 vs. 3184 ± 2495), that accompanied by elevated levels of Osteopontin (158395 ± 45911 vs. 237.7 ± 81.5, p<0.05) and Osteocalcin (22203 ± 8525 vs. 489.7 ± 200.6, p<0.05). R568 had no impact on osteoblastic markers (Runx2: 21743 ± 3193, 23004 ± 10871 vs. 23186 ± 9226, NS; osteopontin: 57680 ± 19522, 137116 ± 60103 vs. 158395 ± 45911, NS; osteocalcin: 10496 ± 5429, 8522 ± 5031 vs. 22203 ± 8525, NS).

Conclusion

In an adenine-induced uremic rat model, we showed that short-term R568 therapy had no effect on AVC. Treatment with R568 decreased PTH levels but had no effect on high phosphate levels. Regression of AVC necessitates not only a decrease in PTH levels, but also a decline in phosphate levels. To achieve improved outcomes, it is advisable to consider administering a combination of R568 with other medications, such as calcium supplements or phosphate binders. Additional studies are required for further evaluation of the potential treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD)-associated AVC.
Real-time execution of SNN models with synaptic plasticity for handwritten digit recognition on SIMD hardware
Authors: Vallejo-Mancero Bernardo , Madrenas Jordi , Zapata Mireya
Published: August 2024

Recent advancements in neuromorphic computing have led to the development of hardware architectures inspired by Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) to emulate the efficiency and parallel processing capabilities of the human brain. This work focuses on testing the HEENS architecture, specifically designed for high parallel processing and biological realism in SNN emulation, implemented on a ZYNQ family FPGA. The study applies this architecture to the classification of digits using the well-known MNIST database. The image resolutions were adjusted to match HEENS' processing capacity. Results were compared with existing work, demonstrating HEENS' performance comparable to other solutions. This study highlights the importance of balancing accuracy and efficiency in the execution of applications. HEENS offers a flexible solution for SNN emulation, allowing for the implementation of programmable neural and synaptic models. It encourages the exploration of novel algorithms and network architectures, providing an alternative for real-time processing with efficient energy consumption.
Multi-faceted regulation of CREB family transcription factors
Authors: Chowdhury Md Arifur Rahman , Haq Md Mazedul , Lee Jeong Hwan , Jeong Sangyun
Published: August 2024

cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) is a ubiquitously expressed nuclear transcription factor, which can be constitutively activated regardless of external stimuli or be inducibly activated by external factors such as stressors, hormones, neurotransmitters, and growth factors. However, CREB controls diverse biological processes including cell growth, differentiation, proliferation, survival, apoptosis in a cell-type-specific manner. The diverse functions of CREB appear to be due to CREB-mediated differential gene expression that depends on cAMP response elements and multi-faceted regulation of CREB activity. Indeed, the transcriptional activity of CREB is controlled at several levels including alternative splicing, post-translational modification, dimerization, specific transcriptional co-activators, non-coding small RNAs, and epigenetic regulation. In this review, we present versatile regulatory modes of CREB family transcription factors and discuss their functional consequences.