bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The efficacy of neoadjuvant immunotherapy in gastric cancer, adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction, and esophageal cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Qian Mengyi , Fang Yingying , Xiang Zhiyi , Zhang Yueming , Zhan Hujie , Chen Xiaotong , Chen Yihang , Xu Tinghui
Published: November 2024

Background

Neoadjuvant immunotherapy holds promise in managing resectable locally advanced gastric cancer (GC), adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG), and esophageal cancer (EC). However, consensus is lacking regarding the efficacy of programmed death-1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors in neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy (NICT). This study aims to assess the added benefit of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) for these malignancies.

Methods

Up to October 2024, randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, and cohort studies that evaluated the addition of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors to NCT were systematically retrieved from electronic databases. The primary endpoints included pathologic complete response (pCR), major pathological response (MPR), overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS).

Results

Thirteen studies published between 2021 and 2024 were analyzed. Statistical analyses revealed significantly higher pCR rates (OR: 2.73, P < 0.001) and MPR rates (OR: 2.99, P < 0.001) in the NICT group compared to NCT group. The PFS was also higher in the NICT group, although the difference did not reach statistical significance (HR: 0.50, P = 0.072).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis demonstrates that NICT enhances pathological response rates in patients with resectable locally advanced GC, AEG, and EC. However, no significant long-term prognostic benefits were associated with NICT.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42024545725.
Expert consensus on the off-label use in China of drugs for rare hematologic diseases (2024 edition)
Authors: Zhao Boxin , Zhou Xuan , Zheng Ping , Zhang Bo , Feng Xiaoqin , Chen Jie , Cai Lisheng , Chen Yilu , He Liya , Su Jianfen , Cheng Shuqin , Zeng Yingtong , Li Guowei , Ji Bo , Wu Jianlong , Feng Weiyi , Liu Maobai , Jin Yiran , Liu Taotao , Mo Xiaolan , Wu Junyan , Wu Hui , Zhang Hongliang , Zheng Zhichang , Zheng Zhihua , Sun Jing , Li Yilei ,   Guangdong Pharmaceutical Association, Hematology Group of Rare Disease Expert Committee of Guangdong Pharmaceutical Association
Published: November 2024

Drug package inserts are a crucial foundation for clinical medication practices and serve as the legal basis for guiding rational drug use and ensuring patient safety and efficacy. As rare disease treatments evolve, current package inserts often need to meet the clinical requirements for treating such conditions, frequently resulting in off-label drug use. This consensus is derived from discussions between Guangdong Pharmaceutical Association Hematologic Rare Diseases Group experts. The consensus aims to provide a framework and reference for the clinical application of off-label drug use in treating rare hematologic diseases.
A review on the mechanism of high repetition rate pulse interference on the RF front-end of GNSS receivers
Authors: Song Yili , Wang Huilin , Liu Wenxiang , Xiao Wei , Ye XiaoZhou , Sun Guangfu
Published: November 2024

With the rapid advancement of pulse technology, given the extraordinarily high repetition frequency of high-repetition pulse interference, with pulse widths typically ranging from a few nanoseconds to several hundred nanoseconds, it possesses ultra-wideband characteristics, research on how to avoid spectral conflict and malicious interference between these pulse signals and navigation receiver systems has emerged as a pressing and popular issue. This paper introduces the mathematical model of high repetition pulse interference signals. Following this, the paper summarizes and analyses the transient response, nonlinear distortion, and linear distortion that accompany signal processing at the Radio Frequency (RF) front end of the receiver. It concludes that the main source of interference in the limiter’s transient response is peak leakage, the primary factor in low noise amplifier’s (LNA) interference is third-order intermodulation distortion, and filter interference is due to the interlaced response from adjacent pulses. Lastly, the current research progress on the mechanism of high repeti-tion pulse interference with navigation receivers is reviewed, providing reference for future study.
Peak systolic blood pressure during preparticipation exercise testing in 12,083 athletes: age, sex, and workload-indexed values and predictors
Authors: Pesova Petra , Jiravska Godula Bogna , Jiravsky Otakar , Jelinek Libor , Sovova Marketa , Moravcova Katarina , Ozana Jaromir , Ranic Ivan , Neuwirth Radek , Miklik Roman , Pekar Matej , Sknouril Libor , Tuka Vladimir , Sovova Eliska
Published: November 2024

Aim

Assessment of blood pressure during exercise is routine in athletes, but normal values remain equivocal. This study examines the response of systolic blood pressure (SBP) to exercise in a large cohort of athletes and establishes normative values by sex and age.

Methods

Competitive athletes free of cardiovascular disease underwent pre-participation exercise testing on a bicycle ergometer. Resting (SBPrest) and peak blood pressure (SBPpeak), heart rate (HRrest and HRpeak), and power output (WR) were recorded. Workload indexed values were calculated.

Results

The cohort included 12,083 athletes (median age 15 years, 26.9% female). Median peak exercise SBP was similar between sexes, but WR-indexed measures including SBP/WR ratio and SBP/(WR/kg) slope were higher in females (0.9 vs. 0.7, p < 0.001; 10.94 vs. 9.52, p < 0.001). Univariate analyses revealed significant associations between SBPpeak and several predictors, including sex, age, weight, height, SBPrest, DBPrest, HRrest, HRpeak, and WR (all p < .001). Multivariate analysis showed that SBPrest (beta = 0.353, 95% CI [0.541, 0.609], p < 0.001), height (beta = 0.303, 95% CI [0.360, 0.447], p < 0.001), WR (beta = 0.171, 95% CI [0.029, 0.045], p < 0.001), and age (beta = 0.093, 95% CI [0.162, 0.241], p < 0.001) were the strongest predictors of SBPpeak.

Conclusion

This study provides reference values for the interpretation of SBP responses to exercise in athletes. Multivariate analyses highlight the complex interplay of factors influencing peak SBP, including SBPrest, height, WR, age, DBPrest, sex, endurance sport category, and weight. In future studies, these findings may inform the development of personalised training strategies and risk stratification models in athletic populations.
Persistent monitoring of insect-pests on sticky traps through hierarchical transfer learning and slicing-aided hyper inference
Authors: Fotouhi Fateme , Menke Kevin , Prestholt Aaron , Gupta Ashish , Carroll Matthew E. , Yang Hsin-Jung , Skidmore Edwin J. , O’Neal Matthew , Merchant Nirav , Das Sajal K. , Kyveryga Peter , Ganapathysubramanian Baskar , Singh Asheesh K. , Singh Arti , Sarkar Soumik
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Effective monitoring of insect-pests is vital for safeguarding agricultural yields and ensuring food security. Recent advances in computer vision and machine learning have opened up significant possibilities of automated persistent monitoring of insect-pests through reliable detection and counting of insects in setups such as yellow sticky traps. However, this task is fraught with complexities, encompassing challenges such as, laborious dataset annotation, recognizing small insect-pests in low-resolution or distant images, and the intricate variations across insect-pests life stages and species classes.

Methods

To tackle these obstacles, this work investigates combining two solutions, Hierarchical Transfer Learning (HTL) and Slicing-Aided Hyper Inference (SAHI), along with applying a detection model. HTL pioneers a multi-step knowledge transfer paradigm, harnessing intermediary in-domain datasets to facilitate model adaptation. Moreover, slicing-aided hyper inference subdivides images into overlapping patches, conducting independent object detection on each patch before merging outcomes for precise, comprehensive results.

Results

The outcomes underscore the substantial improvement achievable in detection results by integrating a diverse and expansive in-domain dataset within the HTL method, complemented by the utilization of SAHI.

Discussion

We also present a hardware and software infrastructure for deploying such models for real-life applications. Our results can assist researchers and practitioners looking for solutions for insect-pest detection and quantification on yellow sticky traps.
Biomass enhancement and activation of transcriptional regulation in sorghum seedling by plasma-activated water
Authors: Beak Hong Kwan , Priatama Ryza A. , Han Sang-Ik , Song Ilchan , Park Soon Ju , Lee Young Koung
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Recent advancements in agricultural technology have highlighted the potential of eco-friendly innovations, such as plasma-activated water (PAW), for enhancing seed germination, growth, and biomass production.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the effects of PAW irrigation on young sorghum seedlings through phenotypic and transcriptional analyses. We measured growth parameters, including seedling height, stem thickness, and biomass, across five sorghum varieties: BTx623, Sodamchal, Noeulchal, Baremae, and Hichal. Additionally, we performed detailed analyses of stem cross-sections to evaluate the structural changes induced by PAW. Whole transcriptome analysis was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and to perform Gene Ontology (GO) analysis.

Results

Phenotypic analysis revealed significant growth enhancements in PAW-treated seedlings compared to the control group, with notable increases in seedling height, stem thickness, and biomass. Stem cross-section analysis confirmed that PAW treatment led to the enlargement of primordia tissue, leaf sheath (LS1 and LS2), and overall stem tissue area. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that 78% of the DEGs were upregulated in response to PAW, indicating that PAW acts as a positive regulator of gene expression. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis further showed that PAW treatment predominantly upregulated genes associated with transmembrane transport, response to light stimulus, oxidoreductase activity, and transcriptional regulation. Additionally, an enriched AP2/EREBP transcription binding motif was identified.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that PAW not only enhances sorghum seedling growth through transcriptional regulation but also has the potential to optimize agricultural practices by increasing crop yield. The upregulation of genes involved in critical biological processes underscores the need for further exploration of PAW’s potential in improving the productivity of sorghum and possibly other crops.
Physical activity promotes the development of cognitive ability in adolescents: the chain mediating role based on self-education expectations and learning behaviors
Authors: Cui Long , Xing Yumei , Zhou Hao , Qian Jia , Li Junnan , Shen Fei , Bu Yifeng
Published: November 2024

Cognitive ability plays a crucial role in adolescents’ academic performance and subsequent career development. Although previous studies have demonstrated that physical activity, self-education expectations, and learning behaviors positively affect the cognitive development of adolescents, the extent of their influence and their mediating roles require further elucidation. This study is based on tracking survey data from 2,688 adolescents in Chinese households collected in 2018. Multiple linear regression, Propensity Score Matching, and Quantile regression were employed to analyze the impact and heterogeneity of physical activity on adolescents’ cognitive ability. Furthermore, the Bootstrap mediation test was used to explore the mediating roles of self-education expectations and learning behaviors in this process. The results indicate the following: Physical activity significantly promotes adolescents’ cognitive ability; for those with poorer cognitive ability, it exerts a greater impact. Moreover, in addition to its direct effects, physical activity indirectly enhances adolescents’ cognitive ability through the mediation of three factors (self-education expectations, learning behaviors, self-education expectations and learning behaviors). These discoveries offer significant insights into diverse strategies for developing cognitive ability in adolescents, contributing to both theoretical research and practical interventions.
New approaches to the single-interval adjustment matrix yes-no task
Authors: Shepherd Daniel , Hautus Michael J.
Published: November 2024

Two adaptations of the Single-Interval Adjust-Matrix Yes-No (SIAM-YN) task, designed to increase the efficiency of absolute threshold estimation, are described. The first, the SIAM Twin Track (SIAM-TT) task, consists of two interleaved tracks of the standard SIAM-YN that are run in the same trial with a single response. The second new task modifies the binary SIAM-YN task by using a six-point rating-scale (SIAM-Rating). In Experiment 1, data from three tasks estimating absolute thresholds were obtained using a 10-ms tone, the 2-IFC up-down procedure, SIAM-YN task, and the SIAM-TT task. The data support the use of the SIAM-TT as an alternative to the conventional two-interval and one-interval (SIAM-YN) tasks when used to estimate absolute thresholds. By presenting two interleaved SIAM-YN tracks on a single experimental trial, the SIAM-TT task possesses greater efficiency alongside its signal-detection tradition which confers less response bias. Similarly, in Experiment 2, which compared the 2-IFC adaptive, SIAM-YN, and SIAM-Rating tasks, there was no main effect of task upon threshold estimates. The findings replicate previous studies supporting the validity and efficiency of the SIAM-YN task, and extends the SIAM-YN toolbox to efficiently facilitate the generation of psychometric functions (the SIAM-TT task) and Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves (the SIAM-Rating task).
Symbolic representation by a two-dimensional matrix for profiling comparative animal behavior
Authors: Irwin Louis N.
Published: November 2024

The growing view that consciousness is widespread, multimodal, and evolutionarily non-linear in complexity across the animal kingdom has given rise recently to a variety of strategies for representing the heterogeneous nature of animal phenomenology. While based on markers clearly associated with consciousness in humans, most of these strategies are theoretical constructs lacking empirical data and are based on metrics appropriate for humans but difficult to measure in most non-human species. I propose a novel symbolic profile based on readily observable behaviors that logically constitute subjective experience across the entire spectrum of animals that possess a centralized nervous system. Three modes (markers) of behavior displayed by all animals – volition, interaction, and self-direction – are quantified according to the frequency, variety, and dynamism of each mode. The resulting matrix of 3 modes x 3 metrics can be expressed as a bi-directional heatmap, allowing for quick and easy inter-species comparisons. The overall effect is to highlight both similarities and differences in the subjective experience of animals ranging from crustaceans to primates.
Impact of children’s purported past-life memories: a follow-up investigation of American cases
Authors: Pehlivanova Marieta , Cozzolino Philip J. , Tucker Jim B.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Some children between ages 3 and 6 claim to have memories of purported past lives. Prior research has documented this phenomenon in detail, including typical features and how it can manifest in the child’s life. However, less is known about what happens to these children as they transition to adulthood and whether this childhood experience may impact their lives.

Methods

We conducted the first observational follow-up study of American adults (N = 23) who were originally interviewed as children regarding their claims of past-life memories. Using online surveys with validated self-report questionnaires and a phone interview, we assessed personality traits, subjective well-being, and the impact of these memories on various domains in their lives.

Results

Adults who reported apparent past-life memories as children seem to lead normal, productive lives and have high educational attainment compared to the general population. They exhibit moderate-to-high levels of spiritual well-being, and slightly elevated, but not pathological, dissociation and fantasy proneness, compared to unselected samples. Sixty-five percent endorsed some impact of the purported memories in their lives, with few reporting negative effects. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed that the degree of impact of this experience was positively associated with the trait of absorption.

Conclusion

This study offers a first glimpse into the lives of American individuals touched by this intriguing childhood experience.
Prevalence and determinants of antenatal depression and its association with intimate partner violence: a cross-sectional study at Hospital Melaka, Malaysia
Authors: Narayanan Sethuckarasi , Abd Rahman Fairuz Nazri , Sutan Rosnah , Kumarasuriar Gayathri K. , Leong Andrew Kah Seong
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the determinants of antenatal depression and its relation to intimate partner violence (IPV) among pregnant women at Hospital Melaka, Malaysia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between February 1 and March 31, 2024, with 370 pregnant women recruited through convenience sampling. Inclusion criteria were Malaysian citizenship, age above 18 years, and ability to read and comprehend Malay. Data collection involved self-reported sociodemographic questionnaires, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and the WHO Multicountry Study on Women’s Health and Life Events Questionnaire.

Results

The prevalence of antenatal depression was 8.4%. IPV was reported by 64.1% of participants, with 54.6% experiencing controlling behavior, 30.0% emotional violence, 2.4% physical violence, and 3.5% sexual violence. Bivariate analysis showed that emotional violence (p < 0.001), physical violence (p < 0.001), sexual violence (p < 0.001), and hospitalization (p = 0.006) were significantly associated with an increased risk of antenatal depression. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that women receiving outpatient care had significantly lower odds of developing antenatal depression compared to hospitalized women (adjusted OR 0.262, 95% CI 0.100–0.683; p = 0.006). Women who experienced sexual violence were 18 times more likely to develop antenatal depression (adjusted OR 18.761, 95% CI 3.603–97.684; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for healthcare workers to recognize risk factors for antenatal depression, particularly IPV.
Effect of neuroticism on Chinese athletes’ vigor: serial mediating roles of pre-competition anxiety and mind wandering
Authors: Li Jieling , Li Chuangye , Tian Bao
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Vigor plays an important role in mental health, and it is closely related to sporting performance. Neuroticism can affect individual vigor, but its internal mechanism remains unclear. This study aims to examine the relationship between neuroticism and vigor, and the role of anxiety and mind wandering between the two.

Methods

A total of 591 athletes completed questionnaires on neuroticism, pre-competition anxiety, mind wandering and vigor. The survey data were tested for common method biases, Pearson’s correlation, and structural equation model via SPSS 25.0 and Mplus 7.0.

Results

Results showed that neuroticism had a predictive effect on athletes’ vigor 4 (β = −0.511, p < 0.001). Pre-competition anxiety (β = −0.056, BC 95% CI = [−0.091, −0.028]) and mind wandering (β = −0.030, BC 95% CI = [−0.054, −0.014]) mediate neuroticism effects on vigor separately. There was a significant serial mediation effect from “neuroticism→Pre-competition anxiety→mind wandering→energy” (β = −0.010, BC 95% CI = [−0.023, −0.002]).

Discussion

This study provides a reference for the systematic investigation of the relationship between neuroticism and vigor, and specific intervention methods for ensuring athletes’ vigor and improving sports performance.
Enhancing cardiovascular patients’ knowledge of air pollution: a pilot study evaluating the impact of an educational intervention in cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Supervia Marta , Bomtempo Ana Paula Delgado , Gómez Eduardo , Bonikowske Amanda R. , Arroyo-Riaño Maria Olga , Ghisi Gabriela Lima de Melo
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Air pollution poses significant risks to cardiovascular health, yet patients often lack comprehensive knowledge about its impact and mitigation strategies. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention within a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) context in enhancing patients’ understanding of air pollution and its cardiovascular effects.

Methods

A pre-post pilot study was conducted from February 2021 to June 2021 at the Gregorio Marañón University General Hospital, Madrid, Spain. A total of 43 patients with cardiovascular disease attending CR were enrolled. Participants received a 1-h educational intervention delivered either in-person or online, focusing on the effects of air pollution and strategies to reduce exposure. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires assessed participants’ knowledge and perceptions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze changes in awareness and understanding.

Results

Initially, participants demonstrated a high level of awareness about the health impacts of air pollution, with 100% acknowledging its effects on health. However, detailed knowledge about specific concepts such as the Air Quality Index (AQI) and particulate matter (PM2.5) was limited. Post-intervention, there was a significant increase in knowledge, with familiarity with AQI rising from 61% to 81% (p = 0.02) and understanding of PM2.5 improving from 28% to 58% (p = 0.01). This indicates that the educational intervention effectively bridged gaps in understanding and reinforced the importance of environmental factors in cardiovascular health management.

Discussion

The pilot study highlights the critical role of targeted education in improving patient awareness and knowledge about air pollution. The significant improvement in understanding key concepts underscores the need for broader educational initiatives that extend beyond CR programs. Future research should explore the impact of such interventions on long-term health outcomes and consider expanding educational efforts to include healthcare providers and family members.
The effect of seasonally frozen ground on rainfall infiltration and groundwater discharge in Qinghai Lake Basin, China
Authors: Ding Chen , Guo Zhilin , Chen Kewei , Fan Linfeng , Zhan Yang , Kuang Xingxing , Cui Buli , Zheng Chunmiao
Published: November 2024

Seasonally frozen ground (SFG) is a significant component of the cryosphere, and its extent is gradually increasing due to climate change. The hydrological influence of SFG is complex and varies under different climatic and physiographic conditions. The summer rainfall dominant climate pattern in Qinghai Lake Basin (QLB) leads to a significantly different seasonal freeze–thaw process and groundwater flow compared to regions with winter snowfall dominated precipitation. The seasonal hydrological processes in QLB are not fully understood due to the lack of soil temperature and groundwater observation data. A coupled surface and subsurface thermal hydrology model was applied to simulate the freeze–thaw process of SFG and groundwater flow in the QLB. The results indicate that SFG begins to freeze in early November, reaches a maximum freezing depth of approximately 2 meters in late March, and thaws completely by June. This freeze–thaw process is primarily governed by the daily air temperature variations. During the early rainy season from April to June, the remaining SFG in deep soil hinders the majority of rainwater infiltration, resulting in a two-month delay in the peak of groundwater discharge compared to scenario with no SFG present. Colder conditions intensify this effect, delaying peak discharge by 3 months, whereas warmer conditions reduce the lag to 1 month. The ice saturation distribution along the hillslope is affected by topography, with a 10 cm deeper ice saturation distribution and 3 days delay of groundwater discharge in the steep case compared to the flat case. These findings highlight the importance of the freeze–thaw process of SFG on hydrological processes in regions dominated by summer rainfall, providing valuable insights into the hydro-ecological response. Enhanced understanding of these dynamics may improve water resource management strategies and support future research into climate-hydrology interactions in SFG-dominated landscapes.
The stabilizing effect of scale breeding on swine production volatility-empirical evidence from China
Authors: Jiang Hui , Wang Mingli , Yan Zhaohui , Sun Yumeng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In the pursuit of agricultural sustainability and food security, the stability of livestock production under large-scale operations plays a pivotal role.

Methods

Based on panel data from 26 provinces in China spanning the years 2007 to 2020, this study employs a two-way panel fixed effects model to examine the stabilizing effect of scale breeding on swine production volatility in China. Additionally, it utilizes the moderating effect model to examine the moderating effect of epidemic risk and policy intervention, and uses the threshold effect model to test the threshold effect of marketization level.

Results

Empirical evidence indicates that moderate-scale breeding exerts a stabilizing effect on swine production volatility, with this effect displaying regional disparities. From the external situation, the higher the risk of epidemic disease, the stronger the stable effect of scale breeding on the fluctuation of swine production, while the enhancement of policy intervention cannot promote the stability of scale breeding on swine production volatility. There is a single threshold effect on the impact of scale breeding on swine production volatility. When the degree of marketization reaches a certain level, the stabilizing effect of scale breeding on swine production volatility is enhanced.

Discussion

Therefore, it is recommended to promote the moderately scaled swine breeding, enhance epidemic monitoring and information disclosure systems, reduce excessive policy intervention, and fully leverage the self-regulating role of the market.
Exploring the nutraceutical potential of soybean genotypes of Uttarakhand: implications for the mainstreaming of wild soybean
Authors: Oli Pooja , Punetha Shailaja , Wani Zishan Ahmad , Arya Om Prakash , Bhatt I.D. , Singh Dinesh Kumar
Published: November 2024

Climate change, coupled with the rising human population and increased demand for food, pose significant challenges for achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs) of zero hunger, no poverty, and good health and well-being. These intertwined challenges demand urgent action to identify and promote un-popularized, underutilized, and unexplored climate-smart crops that can ensure food and nutritional security. The present study aimed to investigate the nutraceutical potential of Glycine soja, a wild ancestor of cultivated soybean that has been used traditionally as food and medicine in Indian Himalayas. Seed samples of wild and cultivated soybeans were collected from different locations in Uttarakhand, India, and screened for their phytochemical and biochemical contents using standard methods. The results of the study revealed that wild soybean contains a significant quantity of total phenols (27.44 ± 0.836 mg/g dw), flavonoids (3.319 ± 0.305 mg QE/g dw), and antioxidant activity (3.56 ± 1.090 mg AAE/g dw). Additionally, the species is a rich source of minerals such as zinc (4.68 ± 0.101 mg/100 g dw), vitamins, and amino acids such as histidine (0.95 ± 0.071 mg/100 g dw), isoleucine (1.74 ± 0.108 mg/100 g dw), leucine (2.94 ± 0.044 mg/100 g dw), lysine (2.13 ± 0.082 mg/100 g dw), methionine (0.53 ± 0.044 mg/100 g dw), threonine (0.67 ± 0.196 mg/100 g dw) etc. than the cultivated soybean. This study is the first to comprehensively compare phytochemicals, antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, anthocyanins, and mineral content of wild and cultivated soybean seed quality traits. From the results of the present study, the inclusion of wild soybean in the cultivation system and daily diets might help to achieve livelihood, food and nutritional security.
Investigación y Arquitectura: Trabajos fin de carrera
Authors:   Universidad Internacional del Ecuador UIDE, Costa-De Los Reyes Claudia , Muñoz-Sotomayor Verónica ,   Universidad Internacional del Ecuador UIDE
Published: November 2024

El libro Investigación y Arquitectura: Trabajos fin de carrera es un proyecto de la escuela de Arquitectura de la UIDE-L que busca reunir reflexiones académicas de sus docentes y estudiantes con la finalidad de contribuir a la práctica de investigación y diseño en arquitectura.
El texto se escribe en el contexto de experiencias de enseñanza en arquitectura y de los trabajos de fin de carrera (TFC) como parte del proceso formativo de los estudiantes, abarcando los ejes teórico, urbano, tecnológico y de diseño arquitectónico. Se estructura en tres capítulos: el primero ofrece una visión sobre el TFC y los procesos dentro de la investigación en arquitectura; el segundo está compuesto por ensayos que abordan la enseñanza y el aprendizaje en diversas áreas del conocimiento arquitectónico; y el tercero presenta dieciocho proyectos realizados por estudiantes en el taller de fin de carrera. Estos proyectos reflejan una variedad de enfoques y escalas de intervención en distintos territorios, respondiendo a problemáticas reales identificadas por los estudiantes.
Los resultados de esta experiencia investigativa se recopilan en esta publicación que, además de documentar el proceso de los TFC, se convierte en un material de referencia valioso para el análisis y desarrollo de proyectos en el ámbito de la arquitectura. Este libro destaca el trabajo de la escuela, ofreciendo una visión integral del proceso académico y creativo de sus estudiantes, y contribuyendo al enriquecimiento del debate arquitectónico.
Verifying Mutual Exclusion Algorithms with Non-Atomic Registers
Authors: Nigro Libero
Published: November 2024

The work described in this paper develops a formal method for modeling and exhaustive verification of mutual exclusion algorithms. The process is based on timed automata and the Uppaal model checker. The technique was successfully applied to several mutual exclusion algorithms, mainly under the atomic memory model, when the read and write operations on memory cells (registers) are atomic or indivisible. The original contribution of this paper consists of a generalization of the approach to support modeling mutual exclusion algorithms with non-atomic registers, where multiple read operations can occur on a register simultaneously to a write operation on the same register, thus giving rise to the flickering phenomenon or multiple write operations can occur at the same time on the same register, hence determining the scrambling phenomenon. The paper first clarifies some consistency rules of non-atomic registers. Then, the developed Uppaal-based method for specifying and verifying mutual exclusion algorithms is presented. The method is applied to the correctness assessment of a sample mutual exclusion solution. After that, non-atomic register consistency rules are rendered in Uppaal to be embedded in the specification methodology. The paper goes on by presenting different mutual exclusion algorithms that are studied using non-atomic registers. Algorithms are also investigated in the context of a tournament tree organization that can provide standard and efficient mutual exclusion solutions for N>2 processes. The paper compares the proposed techniques for handling non-atomic registers and reports about their application to many other mutual exclusion solutions.
Carbon Sequestration Through Groundcovers and Pruning Residues in Sustainable Olive Orchards Under Different Edaphoclimatic Conditions
Authors: Repullo-Ruibérriz de Torres Miguel A. , Veroz-González Óscar , Sánchez-Ruiz Francisco , Moreno-García Manuel , Ordóñez-Fernández Rafaela , González-Sánchez Emilio J. , Carbonell-Bojollo Rosa M.
Published: November 2024

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a key parameter of soil quality, and its improvement reduces the risk of desertification and provides several ecosystem services. Groundcovers are efficient for reducing soil degradation through erosion control and the improvement of organic matter. This article shows the effect of groundcovers with the addition of pruning residues on the SOC in olive orchards compared to soil management based on tillage. Four olive fields located in several edaphoclimatic zones of the Andalusia Region (southern Spain) were monitored, and the SOC stock was assessed during four seasons. The spontaneous groundcovers with the addition of shredded pruning residues had significant effects on SOC in all fields. The tillage treatment also increased the SOC content due to the carbon input through spontaneous vegetation and pruning residues, but to a lesser extent than the non-disturbed soil with groundcovers. The climate and soil characteristics of each zone, especially the clay content, determined the magnitude of the SOC increase. Carbon sequestration rates ranged from 0.02 to 3.02 MgC ha−1 yr−1 up to 30 cm in depth, and the SOC stock measured at the end of the four-season study period was significantly higher in the groundcover treatment, making this system sustainable in olive orchards and recommendable for the entailed ecosystem services.
Fruit Stalk Recognition and Picking Point Localization of New Plums Based on Improved DeepLabv3+
Authors: Chen Xiaokang , Dong Genggeng , Fan Xiangpeng , Xu Yan , Liu Tongshe , Zhou Jianping , Jiang Hong
Published: November 2024

Among the challenges posed by real orchard environments, where the slender new plum fruit stalks exhibit varying postures and share similar coloration with surrounding leaves and branches, the significant obscuration caused by leaves leads to inaccurate segmentation of the fruit stalks, thereby complicating the precise localization of picking points and other related issues. This paper proposes a method for new plum fruit stalk recognition and picking point localization based on the improved DeepLabv3+ model. Firstly, it employs the lightweight MobileNetv2 as the backbone feature extraction network. Secondly, the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) is integrated into the decoder to enhance the model’s ability to extract key features of the fruit stalks. Moreover, dense atrous spatial pyramid pooling (DenseASPP) is utilized to replace the original ASPP module, thereby reducing segmentation leakage. Finally, a picking point localization method is designed based on a refinement algorithm and an endpoint detection algorithm to meet the specific picking demands of new plum, identifying the endpoints along the skeletal line of the fruit stalks as the optimal picking points. The experimental results demonstrate that the mean intersection over union (MIoU) and mean pixel accuracy (MPA) of the enhanced DeepLabv3+ model are 86.13% and 92.92%, respectively, with a model size of only 59.6 MB. In comparison to PSPNet, U-Net, and the original DeepLabv3+ model, the MIoU improves by 13.78, 0.34, and 1.31 percentage points, while the MPA shows enhancements of 15.35, 1.72, and 1.38 percentage points, respectively. Notably, with the endpoint of the fruit stalk’s skeletal structure designated as the picking point for new plums, the localization success rate reaches 88.8%, thereby meeting the requirements for precise segmentation and picking point localization in actual orchard environments. Furthermore, this advancement offers substantial technical support for the research and development of new plum harvesting robots.
Characterization of SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2 1-LIKE (SMXL) Genes in ‘duli’ (Pyrus betulifolia L.) and Expression Analysis of PbSMXLs in Response to Plant Growth Regulators and Salt Stress
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Zhang Weilong , Zhang Yuxing
Published: November 2024

SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2 1-LIKE (SMXL) proteins are negative regulators of strigolactone (SL) signal transduction that play an important role in regulating plant branching and responses to abiotic stress. Here, we studied the role of SMXL proteins in pear growth, development, and stress resistance. A total of 18 SMXL members were characterized in ‘duli’. All SMXL members were localized to chloroplasts. Chromosome mapping analysis showed that the members of this family were unevenly distributed on 14 chromosomes. Gene fragment replication analysis showed that there were no tandem repeat genes in PbSMXLs, and 12 pairs of homologous genes were fragment duplications. There were 30 pairs of homologous genes between ‘duli’ and apples, and 17 between ‘duli’ and Arabidopsis thaliana. Analysis of cis-acting elements showed that there was a large number of photo-effector elements, short-effector elements, hormone-responsive elements, and abiotic stress-responsive elements in the promoter sequences of this family. Analysis of enzyme activity and endogenous SL showed that β-carotenoid isomerase (D27), carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase 7 (CCD7), lateral branch oxidoreductase (LBO) levels, and SL content were higher in ‘duli’ roots and leaves compared in the control under exogenous GA3 (gibberellin 3), IAA (indole-3-acetic acid), GR24 (synthetic SL analog), and NaCl. Most SMXL genes in ‘duli’ were highly expressed in branches and axillary lobes, but their expression was low in fruits. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that eight PbSMXL genes were responsive to GA3, PAC (Paclobutrazol), IAA, ABA (abscisic acid), GR24, and Tis108 (SL biosynthesis inhibitor). PbSMXLs responded positively to salt stress. The expression of PbSMXL6 and PbSMXL15 was significantly induced under salt stress. The expression of PbSMXL7, PbSMXL10, and PbSMXL15 was significantly induced by Tis108 treatment. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the role of SMXL genes in the responses to plant growth regulators and salt stress. Our findings will also aid future studies of the functions of SMXL genes in ‘duli’.
Most Random-Encounter-Model Density Estimates in Camera-Based Predator–Prey Studies Are Unreliable
Authors: Murphy Sean M. , Nolan Benjamin S. , Chen Felicia C. , Longshore Kathleen M. , Simes Matthew T. , Berry Gabrielle A. , Esque Todd C.
Published: November 2024

Identifying population-level relationships between predators and their prey is often predicated on having reliable population estimates. Camera-trapping is effective for surveying terrestrial wildlife, but many species lack individually unique natural markings that are required for most abundance and density estimation methods. Analytical approaches have been developed for producing population estimates from camera-trap surveys of unmarked wildlife; however, most unmarked approaches have strict assumptions that can be cryptically violated by survey design characteristics, practitioner choice of input values, or species behavior and ecology. Using multi-year datasets from populations of an unmarked predator and its co-occurring unmarked prey, we evaluated the consequences of violating two requirements of the random encounter model (REM), one of the first developed unmarked methods. We also performed a systematic review of published REM studies, with an emphasis on predator–prey ecology studies. Empirical data analysis confirmed findings of recent research that using detections from non-randomly placed cameras (e.g., on trails) and/or borrowing movement velocity (day range) values caused volatility in density estimates. Notably, placing cameras strategically to detect the predator, as is often required to obtain sufficient sample sizes, resulted in substantial density estimate inflation for both the predator and prey species. Systematic review revealed that 91% of REM density estimates in published predator–prey ecology studies were obtained using camera-trap data or velocity values that did not meet REM requirements. We suggest considerable caution making conservation or management decisions using REM density estimates from predator–prey ecology studies.
Characterization of Feline Basophils on the Sysmex XN-1000V and Evaluation of a New WDF Gating Profile
Authors: Martínez-Caro Javier , Pastor Josep
Published: November 2024

The Sysmex XN-1000V provides a percentage and concentration of basophils from the WNR scattergram, as for human samples, but this method has been shown to be irrelevant in cats. This study aimed to characterize the feline basophil distribution on the WDF channel and to preliminarily evaluate the performance of a new basophil gate on the WDF channel. Cases of feline basophilia were retrospectively retrieved and the scattergram from the WDF and WNR channels were evaluated for any consistent pattern. A new gating setting for the WDF channel was created to include the suspected basophil region. This new gating was applied retrospectively to identified basophilia cases and prospectively to randomly selected feline cases. Manual, WNR, and new WDF methods for basophil identification were compared. Nine cases of feline basophilia were identified. A characteristic WDF scattergram was identified in seven of the nine cases. A new gate was created on the WDF channel and applied to these and 34 additional cases. The comparison study showed that the new method of basophil quantification using the WDF scattergram correlated better with the manual method than the Sysmex XN-1000V method using the WNR scattergram. Basophil concentration in feline peripheral blood can be determined using a new gate on the WDF channel of the Sysmex XN-1000V, which provides better performance than the WNR channel and is comparable to the manual method.
In Vitro Analysis of LPS-Induced miRNA Differences in Bovine Endometrial Cells and Study of Related Pathways
Authors: Li Xinmiao , Zhang Zhihao , Wang Xiangnan , Lu Ligang , Zhang Zijing , Zhang Geyang , Min Jia , Shi Qiaoting , Lyu Shijie , Chu Qiuxia , Qi Xingshan , Li Huimin , Huang Yongzhen , Wang Eryao
Published: November 2024

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is one of the main factors inducing endometritis in dairy cows. However, the specific pathogenesis of LPS-induced endometritis in dairy cows is not fully understood. The objective of this study was to establish an in vitro endometritis model using LPS-induced bovine endometrial epithelial (BEND) cells. BEND cells were treated with LPS of different concentrations and times. The cell-counting kit-8 (CCK-8) was used to detect the cell survival rate after LPS treatment, and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expression of control group and LPS-treated group of inflammatory factors interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). The results showed that the survival rate of endometrial epithelial cells stimulated by 5 μg/mL LPS for 6 h was 75.13%, and the expression of inflammatory factors was significantly increased. Therefore, 5 μg/mL LPS for 6 h could be selected as a suitable model for the study of inflammation. In addition, miRNA sequencing and target gene prediction was performed on normal and LPS-treated BEND cells. Among twenty-one differentially expressed miRNAs, six miRNAs were selected and their expression levels were detected by RT-qPCR, which were consistent with the sequencing results. Twenty-one differentially expressed miRNAs collectively predicted 17,050 target genes. This study provides a theoretical basis for further investigation of the pathogenesis of endometritis.
Mate Choice in Western Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) in Response to Virtual Mates: A Method for the Investigation of Fish Mate Choice Using Maya 3D Simulation Technology
Authors: Feng Bowen , Chen Liming , Huang Liangmin , Li Jun , Liu Kai
Published: November 2024

Visual signals are crucial for animals to obtain information about their environment, and they play a significant role in mate choice. However, individual variability and factors such as movement patterns can hinder research flexibility. A key challenge in this field is the accurate simulation of specific movements and behaviors. In this study, we investigated the western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) by creating 3D simulation animations using the Maya 2018 software. Meanwhile, we validated the effectiveness of this animation through dichotomous association preference tests. The results showed that our subjects could successfully identify 3D simulated mates, and both males and females demonstrated pronounced preferences for larger simulated animations. Moreover, our findings revealed that this species exhibited a notably stronger preference for 3D simulations compared to 2D animations. These findings suggest that 3D simulation technology holds significant potential for the investigation of fish mate choice, offering an efficient, precise, standardized, and easily manageable non-invasive method for future research in fish behavior.
The Hunt for Kinder Practices: Minimising Harm to Wild Boar Welfare, Insights from a Qualitative Study in Wallonia (Belgium)
Authors: Emond Pauline , Denayer Dorothée
Published: November 2024

As in the rest of Europe, the Belgian boar population has been tending to increase, posing new challenges to management by hunting. Moreover, in autumn 2018, the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus penetrated Belgian territory. In response to this so-called overpopulation and to this health crisis, wild boars were massively culled by hunters and other nature managers. The wild boar was then debated by some stakeholders as a sensitive animal and that its welfare mattered even if it must still be killed. In this article, we explore the management of wild boar through a qualitative sociological survey focusing on damage to the welfare of wild animals and ways of limiting it. This survey is part of an innovative process launched by the Walloon Region and the Walloon Council for Animal Welfare (CWBEA). It was conducted in order to qualitatively describe current hunting practices and their impact on animal welfare; it then integrated knowledge from the human sciences into the CWBEA’s work; and, finally, those from the hunting world were invited to debate with the usual animal welfare advocates and managers. By identifying, based on the knowledge of hunting stakeholders and wildlife specialists, a multitude of issues and avenues for action to limit the harm to the welfare of wild boars, this paper highlights the relevance of an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approach to the welfare issues of wild animals. It supports the hypothesis that animal welfare advocates can work toward establishing new norms in human/nonhuman relationships in collaboration with hunters but also to include wild animals—wild boars in this case—as sentient beings whose welfare must be considered and debated in discussions on global health.