bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shorter telomeres are associated with shell anomalies in a long‐lived tortoise
Authors: Mira‐Jover Andrea , Rodríguez‐Caro R. C. , Noguera J. C. , Fritz U. , Kehlmaier C. , García de la Fuente M. I. , Giménez A. , Graciá E.
Published: February 2024

Age‐related telomere length (TL) variation is relatively well‐described for mammals, birds and other model organisms. Nevertheless, it remains largely unknown in ectotherms, especially turtles and tortoises, which are extremely long‐lived species with slow or negligible senescence. In this study, we described TL dynamics in wild spur‐thighed tortoises (Testudo graeca), one of the chelonian species with the lowest aging rates. By combining cross‐sectional (single) and longitudinal (capture–recapture) samplings, we assessed the relationship between TL and individual characteristics (sex, age, individual growth rate, body condition index, presence of shell anomalies). We did not find any association between TL and sex, individual growth rate, or body condition. However, the relationship with age remains uncertain, likely due to the complex dynamics of TL over time. Interestingly, shorter telomeres correlated significantly with shell anomalies, which are usually assumed as a fitness proxy for reptiles. Overall, our results suggest TL as a potential indicator for ontogenetic studies on tortoises, while its utility as a marker of biological age appears limited.
Segmental duplications drive the evolution of accessory regions in a major crop pathogen
Authors: van Westerhoven Anouk C. , Aguilera‐Galvez Carolina , Nakasato‐Tagami Giuliana , Shi‐Kunne Xiaoqian , Martinez de la Parte Einar , Chavarro‐Carrero Edgar , Meijer Harold J. G. , Feurtey Alice , Maryani Nani , Ordóñez Nadia , Schneiders Harrie , Nijbroek Koen , Wittenberg Alexander H. J. , Hofstede Rene , García‐Bastidas Fernando , Sørensen Anker , Swennen Ronny , Drenth Andre , Stukenbrock Eva H. , Kema Gert H. J. , Seidl Michael F.
Published: February 2024

Many pathogens evolved compartmentalized genomes with conserved core and variable accessory regions (ARs) that carry effector genes mediating virulence. The fungal plant pathogen Fusarium oxysporum has such ARs, often spanning entire chromosomes. The presence of specific ARs influences the host range, and horizontal transfer of ARs can modify the pathogenicity of the receiving strain. However, how these ARs evolve in strains that infect the same host remains largely unknown.

We defined the pan‐genome of 69 diverse F. oxysporum strains that cause Fusarium wilt of banana, a significant constraint to global banana production, and analyzed the diversity and evolution of the ARs.

Accessory regions in F. oxysporum strains infecting the same banana cultivar are highly diverse, and we could not identify any shared genomic regions and in planta‐induced effectors. We demonstrate that segmental duplications drive the evolution of ARs. Furthermore, we show that recent segmental duplications specifically in accessory chromosomes cause the expansion of ARs in F. oxysporum.

Taken together, we conclude that extensive recent duplications drive the evolution of ARs in F. oxysporum, which contribute to the evolution of virulence.
Drought resistance and resilience of rhizosphere communities in forest soils from the cellular to ecosystem scale – insights from 13C pulse labeling
Authors: Gao Decai , Luster Jörg , Zürcher Alois , Arend Matthias , Bai Edith , Gessler Arthur , Rigling Andreas , Schaub Marcus , Hartmann Martin , Werner Roland A. , Joseph Jobin , Poll Christian , Hagedorn Frank
Published: February 2024

The link between above‐ and belowground communities is a key uncertainty in drought and rewetting effects on forest carbon (C) cycle.

In young beech model ecosystems and mature naturally dry pine forest exposed to 15‐yr‐long irrigation, we performed 13C pulse labeling experiments, one during drought and one 2 wk after rewetting, tracing tree assimilates into rhizosphere communities.

The 13C pulses applied in tree crowns reached soil microbial communities of the young and mature forests one and 4 d later, respectively. Drought decreased the transfer of labeled assimilates relative to the irrigation treatment. The 13C label in phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) indicated greater drought reduction of assimilate incorporation by fungi (−85%) than by gram‐positive (−43%) and gram‐negative bacteria (−58%).

13C label incorporation was more strongly reduced for PLFAs (cell membrane) than for microbial cytoplasm extracted by chloroform. This suggests that fresh rhizodeposits are predominantly used for osmoregulation or storage under drought, at the expense of new cell formation. Two weeks after rewetting, 13C enrichment in PLFAs was greater in previously dry than in continuously moist soils. Drought and rewetting effects were greater in beech systems than in pine forest.

Belowground C allocation and rhizosphere communities are highly resilient to drought.
Ethylene‐MPK8‐ERF.C1‐PR module confers resistance against Botrytis cinerea in tomato fruit without compromising ripening
Authors: Deng Heng , Pei Yangang , Xu Xin , Du Xiaofei , Xue Qihan , Gao Zhuo , Shu Peng , Wu Yi , Liu Zhaoqiao , Jian Yongfei , Wu Mengbo , Wang Yikui , Li Zhengguo , Pirrello Julien , Bouzayen Mondher , Deng Wei , Hong Yiguo , Liu Mingchun
Published: February 2024

The plant hormone ethylene plays a critical role in fruit defense against Botrytis cinerea attack, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we showed that ethylene response factor SlERF.C1 acts as a key regulator to trigger the ethylene‐mediated defense against B. cinerea in tomato fruits without compromising ripening.

Knockout of SlERF.C1 increased fruit susceptibility to B. cinerea with no effect on ripening process, while overexpression enhanced resistance. RNA‐Seq, transactivation assays, EMSA and ChIP‐qPCR results indicated that SlERF.C1 activated the transcription of PR genes by binding to their promoters.

Moreover, SlERF.C1 interacted with the mitogen‐activated protein kinase SlMPK8 which allowed SlMPK8 to phosphorylate SlERF.C1 at the Ser174 residue and increases its transcriptional activity. Knocking out of SlMPK8 increased fruit susceptibility to B. cinerea, whereas overexpression enhanced resistance without affecting ripening. Furthermore, genetic crosses between SlMPK8‐KO and SlERF.C1‐OE lines reduced the resistance to B. cinerea attack in SlERF.C1‐OE fruits. In addition, B. cinerea infection induced ethylene production which in turn triggered SlMPK8 transcription and enhanced the phosphorylation of SlERF.C1.

Overall, our findings reveal the regulatory mechanism of the ‘Ethylene‐MPK8‐ERF.C1‐PR’ module in resistance against B. cinerea and provide new insight into the manipulation of gray mold disease in fruits.
Pollen, anther, stamen, and androecium mimicry
Authors: Lunau K. , De Camargo M. G. G. , Brito V. L. G.
Published: February 2024

Floral colours represent a highly diverse communication signal mainly involved in flower visitors' attraction and guidance, but also flower discrimination, filtering non‐pollinators and discouraging floral antagonists. The divergent visual systems and colour preferences of flower visitors, as well as the necessity of cues for flower detection and discrimination, foster the diversity of floral colours and colour patterns. Despite the bewildering diversity of floral colour patterns, a recurrent component is a yellow UV‐absorbing floral centre, and it is still not clear why this pattern is so frequent in angiosperms. The pollen, anther, stamen, and androecium mimicry (PASAM) hypothesis suggests that the system composed of the flowers possessing such yellow UV‐absorbing floral reproductive structures, the flowers displaying central yellow UV‐absorbing structures as floral guides, and the pollen‐collecting, as well as pollen‐eating, flower visitors responding to such signals constitute the world's most speciose mimicry system. In this review, we call the attention of researchers to some hypothetical PASAM systems around the globe, presenting some fascinating examples that illustrate their huge diversity. We will also present new and published data on pollen‐eating and pollen‐collecting pollinators' responses to PASAM structures supporting the PASAM hypothesis and will discuss how widespread these systems are around the globe. Ultimately, our goal is to promote the idea that PASAM is a plausible first approach to understanding floral colour patterns in angiosperms.
Election results can decrease intergroup threat and through that positively affect intergroup relations
Authors: Roth Jenny , Steinmann Miriam , Loughnane Jack , Devine Paula , Muldoon Orla , Shelly Catriona , van Tilburg Wijnand A. P. , Steffens Melanie C. , Campbell Claire
Published: February 2024

Previous research has established that intergroup threat is pivotal to intergroup relations in divided societies. We used the Northern Ireland Assembly Elections in 2022 as a unique chance to investigate how elections can affect feelings of threat and intergroup relations between communities with a history of violent intergroup conflict. We argued that because of their conflicting goals, if Sinn Féin (i.e., a Republican party that promotes a united Ireland) gains more votes than the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP, i.e., a party promoting Northern Ireland's union with the United Kingdom), it would threaten DUP supporters and vice versa. We assessed whether participants supported Sinn Féin or DUP relatively to each other, intergroup threat, and intergroup bias before and after the elections (N = 285). Following an election outcome where Sinn Féin gained more votes than DUP, Sinn Féin supporters showed decreased feelings of threat which in turn decreased their intergroup bias. DUP supporters, the party that received fewer votes, showed no changes in their feelings of threat or intergroup bias. This research highlights how electoral results affect intergroup relations in postconflict societies.
Prevalence of mild behavioural impairment and its association with cognitive and functional impairment in normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment, and mild Alzheimer's dementia
Authors: Park Jong‐Il ,   the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: February 2024

Background

Mild behavioural impairment (MBI) is an emergent and persistent neuropsychiatric symptom (NPS) in subjects aged 50 and older who are at risk for cognitive decline. We examined the prevalence of MBI across the spectrum from cognitively normal (CN), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), to dementia, and further investigated the association between the MBI domain and cognitive and functional impairment.

Method

MBI was assessed in 2337 elderly patients in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative database (mean age, 73.04 years; 52.8% male). Among the subjects, 868 (37.1%) had normal cognition, 1066 (45.6%) had MCI, and 403 (17.2%) had mild Alzheimer's dementia (AD). MBI was evaluated in accordance with the Alzheimer's Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment diagnostic criteria for MBI, utilising the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. We compared the prevalence of the MBI domain with CN using multinominal logistic regression analysis and further quantified the magnitude of the association between MCI/AD and the MBI domains by calculating the population attributable risk (PAR). We assessed the association between the MBI domains and cognitive and functional impairment using simultaneous linear regression analysis.

Results

The most common MBI domains in each diagnostic group were affective dysregulation followed by impulse dyscontrol, decreased motivation, social inappropriateness, and abnormal perception or thought content. The PARs for MBI domains in subjects with MCI or AD were respectively: 16.60% and 24.34% for affective dysregulation; 3.72% and 18.06% for impulse dyscontrol; 4.78% and 14.13% for decreased motivation, 1.91% and 2.29% for social inappropriateness; and 0.68% and 3.85% for abnormal perception or thought content. All MBI domains except for social inappropriateness were significantly associated with a higher 11‐item Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale total score. All MBI domains were significantly associated with a higher Functional Activities Questionnaire total score.

Conclusion

Our findings show that MBI is highly prevalent across subjects with CN, MCI, and AD and is associated with cognitive and functional decline. MBI could be a crucial clinical phenotype relevant to the risk of cognitive and functional impairment, and provides a useful dimension pertinent to diagnostic approaches.
Interplay among photoreceptors determines the strategy of coping with excess light in tomato
Authors: Shomali Aida , Aliniaeifard Sasan , Kamrani Yousef Yari , Lotfi Mahmoud , Aghdam Morteza Soleymani , Rastogi Anshu , Brestič Marian
Published: February 2024

This study investigates photoreceptor's role in the adaption of photosynthetic apparatus to high light (HL) intensity by examining the response of tomato wild type (WT) (Solanum lycopersicum L. cv. Moneymaker) and tomato mutants (phyA, phyB1, phyB2, cry1) plants to HL. Our results showed a photoreceptor‐dependent effect of HL on the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) with phyB1 exhibiting a decrease, while phyB2 exhibiting an increase in Fv/Fm. HL resulted in an increase in the efficient quantum yield of photosystem II (ΦPSII) and a decrease in the non‐photochemical quantum yields (ΦNPQ and ΦN0) solely in phyA. Under HL, phyA showed a significant decrease in the energy‐dependent quenching component of NPQ (qE), while phyB2 mutants showed an increase in the state transition (qT) component. Furthermore, ΔΔFv/Fm revealed that PHYB1 compensates for the deficit of PHYA in phyA mutants. PHYA signaling likely emerges as the dominant effector of PHYB1 and PHYB2 signaling within the HL‐induced signaling network. In addition, PHYB1 compensates for the role of CRY1 in regulating Fv/Fm in cry1 mutants. Overall, the results of this research provide valuable insights into the unique role of each photoreceptor and their interplay in balancing photon energy and photoprotection under HL condition.
Structural transformation and inequality: Does trade openness matter?
Authors: Durongkaveroj Wannaphong
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this paper is to examine income inequality in the process of economic growth and structural transformation with emphasis on the role of economic openness using a new measure of trade openness (the price convergence index [PCI]), which is an alternative measure to the widely used trade‐to‐GDP ratio. The analysis is based on a multi‐country panel data covering 48 countries for the period from 1960 to 2010. The results suggest that an increase in the share of employment in manufacturing is associated with a reduction in income inequality. This inequality‐reducing effect is significantly greater for countries with more open trade regimes. In addition, the Kuznets‐type relationship exists between services employment share and income inequality, with inequality first increasing with the movement of workers from agriculture to services and then decreasing. This inequality‐increasing effect of services employment share is also larger for countries with more open trade regimes. The findings withstand the inclusion of relevant explanatory variables, an alternative measure of income inequality, and alternative estimator to address possible endogeneity.
Analysis of Media and Information Literacy Definitions: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Dadakhonov Azamjon O.
Published: February 2024

Rapid advancements in media and information technology have led to an increasingly complex and interconnected information landscape. Navigating this digital age requires critical thinking skills and a comprehensive understanding of media and information literacy (MIL). However, the definitions of MIL vary across contexts, disciplines, and cultures. This qualitative study described and analysed diverse definitions of MIL through an in-depth analysis of existing literature to shed light on nuanced perspectives within the field as well as the peculiarities and similarities of the terms ‘media literacy’ and ‘information literacy.’ By delving into qualitative dimensions, the article contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of media and information literacy. Study findings will contribute to the development of a unified and comprehensive understanding of MIL and facilitate the design of educational programs and policies to enhance media literacy skills among individuals across societies and age groups. This theoretical study was devoted to analysing theoretical and conceptual definitions of Media and Information Literacy to uncover the wide-ranging aspects of the umbrella term.
Perceived Social Media Influencers’ Reputation of a Beauty Cosmetics Company: A Perspective of Customers
Authors: Chan Tak Jie , Taher Surug Saleh , Ng Miew Luan , Haris Fadzilah Asmaul Husna
Published: February 2024

In the digital age, social media influencers (SMI) have become a pivotal promotional strategy to persuade and influence consumers. However, many of the previous studies only focused on the characteristics and traits of the influencers, but lack of studies was examined on the reputation aspect of the influencer. Thus, this study aims to examine the consumers’ perception of SMI’s reputation of a beauty company, which comprised of Communication Skills, Influence, Authenticity, and Expert. The study applied a quantitative design through a survey method to solicit 190 usable responses via purposive sampling. The findings demonstrated that the four dimensions of SMI’s reputation are positively perceived by the respondents, where the Expert dimension was highly perceived by the consumers of the beauty company, followed by Influence, Communication Skills, and Authenticity. Thus, the beauty brand and marketing managers should examine the qualities and reputation of the SMIs before allowing them to endorse or promote the products, to ensure they have favorable images in the public eye. Conclusion, implications, and future research were discussed.
Trunk Endurance and Low Back Pain Outcomes in College Golfers
Authors: Skibski Andrew , Goetschius John , Mangum L. Colby
Published: February 2024

Low back pain (LBP) is a common injury in golf. There are several outcomes used to quantify LBP-related disability, such as core endurance tests and questionnaires. The primary purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes between college golfers with and without LBP. A secondary purpose was to determine relationships between these measures. We found no difference between groups for Biering-Sørensen endurance (p = .558). Episodes of LBP were significantly related to the Oswestry Disability Index (ρ = .491) and Golf-specific LBP questionnaire (ρ = −.576). Oswestry Disability Index and Golf-specific LBP questionnaire also demonstrated a moderate relationship (ρ = −.604).
Economic Analysis of Secondary School Outreach Athletic Training Services
Authors: Czajka Brian A.
Published: February 2024

The health care benefit of athletic trainers in secondary schools is well established; however, the economic effects of athletic training outreach programs on the organization providing the services are not well researched. The purpose of this study was to determine the economic effects of outreach athletic training services on the organization the outreach athletic training services. The daily number of patient visits and procedure charges were compiled and compared between a time period when outreach athletic training services were provided to local secondary schools and a time period when these services were not provided. The findings of this study showed that an organization providing outreach athletic training services may experience significant increases in daily patient visits and daily procedure charges.
Predicting Soccer Players’ Fitness Status Through a Machine-Learning Approach
Authors: Mandorino Mauro , Clubb Jo , Lacome Mathieu
Published: February 2024

Purpose: The study had 3 purposes: (1) to develop an index using machine-learning techniques to predict the fitness status of soccer players, (2) to explore the index’s validity and its relationship with a submaximal run test (SMFT), and (3) to analyze the impact of weekly training load on the index and SMFT outcomes. Methods: The study involved 50 players from an Italian professional soccer club. External and internal loads were collected during training sessions. Various machine-learning algorithms were assessed for their ability to predict heart-rate responses during the training drills based on external load data. The fitness index, calculated as the difference between actual and predicted heart rates, was correlated with SMFT outcomes. Results: Random forest regression (mean absolute error = 3.8 [0.05]) outperformed the other machine-learning algorithms (extreme gradient boosting and linear regression). Average speed, minutes from the start of the training session, and the work:rest ratio were identified as the most important features. The fitness index displayed a very large correlation (r = .70) with SMFT outcomes, with the highest result observed during possession games and physical conditioning exercises. The study revealed that heart-rate responses from SMFT and the fitness index could diverge throughout the season, suggesting different aspects of fitness. Conclusions: This study introduces an “invisible monitoring” approach to assess soccer player fitness in the training environment. The developed fitness index, in conjunction with traditional fitness tests, provides a comprehensive understanding of player readiness. This research paves the way for practical applications in soccer, enabling personalized training adjustments and injury prevention.
Autonomy-Supportive, External-Focus Instructions Optimize Children’s Motor Learning in Physical Education
Authors: Simpson Thomas , Finlay Mitchell , Simpson Victoria , Asadi Ayoub , Ellison Paul , Carnegie Evelyn , Marchant David
Published: February 2024

An external focus of attention and autonomy support are identified as key factors to optimize motor learning; however, research in children is limited. Moreover, research has failed to examine these factors in ecologically valid motor learning settings, like physical education. Therefore, the present study examined the effects of external focus of attention when delivered using autonomy-supportive or controlling instructional language on children’s motor learning. Thirty-three novice participants (10.30 ± 0.52 years) practiced a land-based curling task under supportive (external-focus instructions delivered with supportive language), controlling (external-focus instructions delivered with controlling language), or neutral (external instructions embedded in the task aim) conditions before completing a retention and transfer test. The supportive group produced higher positive affect after practice and greater accuracy in the retention test compared with the other groups. The findings provide support for the OPTIMAL (optimizing performance through intrinsic motivation and attention for learning) theory of motor learning that combining an external focus and autonomy support conditions improves motor learning.
Physical Activity Levels, Correlates, and All-Cause Mortality Risk in People Living With Different Health Conditions
Authors: Marks-Vieveen Jenny M. , Uijtdewilligen Léonie , Motazedi Ehsan , Stijnman Dominique P.M. , van den Akker-Scheek Inge , Bouma Adrie J. , Buffart Laurien M. , de Groot Vincent , de Hollander Ellen , Jelsma Judith G.M. , de Jong Johan , van Keeken Helco G. , Krops Leonie A. , van der Leeden Marike , Loer Stephan A. , van Mechelen Willem , van Nassau Femke , Nauta Joske , Verhagen Evert , Wendel-Vos Wanda , van der Woude Lucas H.V. , Zwerver Johannes , Dekker Rienk , van der Ploeg Hidde P.
Published: February 2024

Background: To better understand physical activity behavior and its health benefits in people living with health conditions, we studied people with and without 20 different self-reported health conditions with regard to (1) their physical activity levels, (2) factors correlated with these physical activity levels, and (3) the association between physical activity and all-cause mortality. Methods: We used a subsample (n = 88,659) of the Lifelines cohort study from the Netherlands. For people living with and without 20 different self-reported health conditions, we studied the aforementioned factors in relation to physical activity. Physical activity was assessed with the Short Questionnaire to Assess Health-Enhancing Physical Activity Questionnaire, and mortality data were obtained from the Dutch death register. Results: People with a reported health condition were less likely to meet physical activity guidelines than people without a reported health condition (odds ratios ranging from 0.55 to 0.89). Higher body mass index and sitting time, and lower self-rated health, physical functioning, and education levels were associated with lower odds of meeting physical activity guidelines across most health conditions. Finally, we found a protective association between physical activity and all-cause mortality in both people living with and without different health conditions. Conclusion: People living with different health conditions are generally less physically active compared with people living without a health condition. Both people living with and without self-reported health conditions share a number of key factors associated with physical activity levels. We also observed the expected protective association between physical activity and all-cause mortality.
Continuing Professional Development in Physical Education: Future Directions and Lessons Learned
Authors: Kern Ben D. , Patton Kevin
Published: February 2024

Demand for supporting the delivery of high-quality physical education (PE) has never been more important, and continuing professional development (CPD) that results in changes in PE teachers’ practices and improvements in student learning outcomes is in short supply. PE-CPD has historically fallen short of meeting this end, though there are written descriptions of successful PE-CPD spanning the past 4 decades. In this paper, we examine shared features of effective PE-CPD, identify and review gaps in PE-CPD literature, and discuss lessons learned to enhance future efforts by policymakers and stakeholders responsible for designing, planning, and facilitating learning opportunities for physical educators. We conclude with a critical discourse challenging readers to consider the following four questions: (a) What is the purpose of CPD? (b) What is worth knowing regarding CPD? (c) What can be done to improve the quality and quantity of CPD? and (d) Who should be doing something about it?
Quantifying Human Gait Symmetry During Blindfolded Treadmill Walking
Authors: Shoja Otella , Shojaei Masoumeh , Hassanlouei Hamidollah , Towhidkhah Farzad , Zhang Lei
Published: February 2024

Bilateral gait symmetry is an essential requirement for normal walking since asymmetric gait patterns increase the risk of falls and injuries. While human gait control heavily relies on the contribution of sensory inputs, the role of sensory systems in producing symmetric gait has remained unclear. This study evaluated the influence of vision as a dominant sensory system on symmetric gait production. Ten healthy adults performed treadmill walking with and without vision. Twenty-two gait parameters including ground reaction forces, joint range of motion, and other spatial–temporal gait variables were evaluated to quantify gait symmetry and compared between both visual conditions. Visual block caused increased asymmetry in most parameters of ground reaction force, however mainly in the vertical direction. When vision was blocked, symmetry of the ankle and knee joint range of motion decreased, but this change did not occur in the hip joint. Stance and swing time symmetry decreased during no-vision walking while no significant difference was found for step length symmetry between the two conditions. This study provides a comprehensive analysis to reveal how the visual system influences bilateral gait symmetry and highlights the important role of vision in gait control. This approach could be applied to investigate how vision alters gait symmetry in patients with disorders to help better understand the role of vision in pathological gaits.
CDC Kernen oilseed flax
Authors: Booker Helen M. , Kutcher H. Randy , Rashid Khalid Y. , Tar'an Bunyamin
Published: February 2024

CDC Kernen, a late maturing oilseed flax ( Linum usitatissimum L.), was registered in 2021 by the Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. This cultivar had a significant yield advantage (107%) compared to CDC Glas (the yield check) in all soil zones of the Northern Prairies. The yield of CDC Kernen was 115%, 98%, and 105% of CDC Glas in the Black, Brown, and Black and Grey soil zones of Western Canada, respectively. This cultivar has medium (45.1%) oil content, oil quality (iodine value (IV) 192; alpha linolenic acid content 57.1%), equivalent to CDC Glas (the seed quality standard) coupled with larger seed size (thousand seed weight 6.1 g) than CDC Glas. It is immune to North American rust (race 371) caused by Melampsora lini and moderately resistant to wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini and powdery mildew caused by Oidium lini.
Pion and kaon electromagnetic and gravitational form factors
Authors: Xu Y.-Z. , Ding M. , Raya K. , Roberts C. D. , Rodríguez-Quintero J. , Schmidt S. M.
Published: February 2024

A unified set of predictions for pion and kaon elastic electromagnetic and gravitational form factors is obtained using a symmetry-preserving truncation of each relevant quantum field equation. A key part of the study is a description of salient aspects of the dressed graviton + quark vertices. The calculations reveal that each meson’s mass radius is smaller than its charge radius, matching available empirical inferences; and meson core pressures are commensurate with those in neutron stars. The analysis described herein paves the way for a direct calculation of nucleon gravitational form factors.
Optimal Electrodermal Activity Segment for Enhanced Emotion Recognition Using Spectrogram-Based Feature Extraction and Machine Learning
Authors: P Sriram Kumar , Agastinose Ronickom Jac Fredo
Published: February 2024

In clinical and scientific research on emotion recognition using physiological signals, selecting the appropriate segment is of utmost importance for enhanced results. In our study, we optimized the electrodermal activity (EDA) segment for an emotion recognition system. Initially, we obtained EDA signals from two publicly available datasets: the Continuously annotated signals of emotion (CASE) and Wearable stress and affect detection (WESAD) for 4-class dimensional and three-class categorical emotional classification, respectively. These signals were pre-processed, and decomposed into phasic signals using the ‘convex optimization to EDA’ method. Further, the phasic signals were segmented into two equal parts, each subsequently segmented into five nonoverlapping windows. Spectrograms were then generated using short-time Fourier transform and Mel-frequency cepstrum for each window, from which we extracted 85 features. We built four machine learning models for the first part, second part, and whole phasic signals to investigate their performance in emotion recognition. In the CASE dataset, we achieved the highest multi-class accuracy of 62.54% using the whole phasic and 61.75% with the second part phasic signals. Conversely, the WESAD dataset demonstrated superior performance in three-class emotions classification, attaining an accuracy of 96.44% for both whole phasic and second part phasic segments. As a result, the second part of EDA is strongly recommended for optimal outcomes.
INVESTOR ATTENTION AND ENTERPRISE FINANCIALIZATION FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF INSTITUTIONAL INVESTOR CORPORATE SITE VISITS
Authors: ZHANG YOUZE , WEI SHIWEI , LIANG JINHENG , YE SONGQIN
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the impact of institutional investor site visits on enterprise financialization using Shenzhen Stock Exchange A-share listed companies’ data from 2013 to 2022. Findings reveal that such visits drive companies, especially those with high financing constraints, to reduce financial asset allocation. This reduction is facilitated through enhanced information disclosure and lowered financing costs. Notably, site visits effectively mitigate financialization in highly constrained private and high-tech enterprises. The study offers a theoretical guide for regulatory bodies, advocating for enterprises to prioritize core operations, minimize financial asset allocation and fortify financial services for the real economy.
THE HOLIDAY EFFECTS ON AMUSEMENT AND THEME PARK COMPANIES’ STOCK PRICES
Authors: CHIU CHIA-NING
Published: February 2024

This study offers further evidence of the holiday effect on excess stock returns and volatility, and additional insights into its impact on the amusement park and attractions industry in the United States. The generalized auto-regressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model and dummy variables are adopted to investigate pre- and post-holiday excess returns and volatility. Empirical results suggest the following: (1) both excess returns and excess volatility happen more frequently in pre-holidays than post-holidays; (2) the frequency of excess volatility is higher than excess returns for the holiday effect; and (3) nearly all significant excess volatilities are negative. We, therefore, conclude that the holiday effect exists in publicly traded amusement and theme parks.
Reaction–diffusion systems derived from kinetic theory for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Oliveira João Miguel , Travaglini Romina
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present a mathematical study for the development of Multiple Sclerosis in which a spatio-temporal kinetic theory model describes, at the mesoscopic level, the dynamics of a high number of interacting agents. We consider both interactions among different populations of human cells and the motion of immune cells, stimulated by cytokines. Moreover, we reproduce the consumption of myelin sheath due to anomalously activated lymphocytes and its restoration by oligodendrocytes. Successively, we fix a small time parameter and assume that the considered processes occur at different scales. This allows us to perform a formal limit, obtaining macroscopic reaction–diffusion equations for the number densities with a chemotaxis term. A natural step is then to study the system, inquiring about the formation of spatial patterns through a Turing instability analysis of the problem and basing the discussion on the microscopic parameters of the model. In particular, we get spatial patterns oscillating in time that may reproduce brain lesions characteristic of different phases of the pathology.
Non-Galvin filters
Authors: Benhamou Tom , Garti Shimon , Gitik Moti , Poveda Alejandro
Published: February 2024

We address the question of consistency strength of certain filters and ultrafilters which fail to satisfy the Galvin property. We answer questions [Benhamou and Gitik, Ann. Pure Appl. Logic 173 (2022) 103107; Questions 7.8, 7.9], [Benhamou et al., J. Lond. Math. Soc. 108(1) (2023) 190–237; Question 5] and improve theorem [Benhamou et al., J. Lond. Math. Soc. 108(1) (2023) 190–237; Theorem 2.3].
On a certain functional identity involving inverses in division rings and local rings
Authors: Cezayi̇rli̇oğlu Nefi̇se , Demir Çağrl
Published: February 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a division ring, [Formula: see text] an automorphism of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] a fixed element. We determine the forms of additive maps [Formula: see text] satisfying the identity [Formula: see text] for every nonzero [Formula: see text]. We show that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are both generalized [Formula: see text]-derivations of [Formula: see text] except possibly when [Formula: see text] is the identity automorphism and [Formula: see text] is an imperfect field of characteristic [Formula: see text]. We further study the same rational identity in the context of local rings under some mild assumptions.
Study of a division-like property
Authors: Khanfir Robin , Seguin Béranger
Published: February 2024

We study a weak divisibility property for noncommutative rings: A nontrivial ring is fadelian if for all nonzero [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] there exist [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]. We prove properties of fadelian rings and construct examples thereof which are not division rings, as well as non-Noetherian and non-Ore examples.
On deformations of Rota–Baxter algebra morphisms
Authors: Xv Jiangnan , Bao Yanhong , Du Lei
Published: February 2024

Rota–Baxter algebras are important in probability, combinatorics, associative Yang–Baxter equation and splitting of algebras. This paper studies the formal deformations of Rota–Baxter algebra morphisms. As a consequence, we develop a cohomology theory of Rota–Baxter algebra morphisms to interpret the lower degree cohomology groups as formal deformations. Finally, we prove the cohomology comparison theorem of Rota–Baxter algebra morphisms, i.e. the cohomology of a morphism of Rota–Baxter algebras is isomorphic to the cohomology of an auxiliary Rota–Baxter algebra.
Effect of Mechanical Fastening Versus Adhesively Bonded Joints of Polymer Composites on Lap Joint Strength
Authors: Rakesh Pawan Kumar , Kumar Rajesh , Dixit Abhishek , Gurjar Satyam Singh , Kumar Jayant
Published: February 2024

To examine the viability of combining pine needle fiber-reinforced polylactic acid composites, galvanized iron sheet and aluminum sheet via the use of mechanical fastening and adhesive bonding methods was investigated. The study included the preparation of three distinct kinds of joints, namely, adhesive, nut-bolt, and rivet joints, with the purpose of assessing their tensile and flexural strength. The findings indicated that the use of both mechanical fastening and adhesive bonding methods yielded successful outcomes in the bonding of these materials, with the strength of the joints changing based on the approach employed. The adhesive bonding approach exhibited superior tensile and flexural strength in comparison to the mechanical fastening technique. The microstructural examination demonstrated that the adhesive bonding approach yielded a consistent and uninterrupted contact between the materials, while the mechanical fastening technique exhibited some surface imperfections and deformations. The results indicated that both approaches were effective in producing robust and long-lasting joints.
Multi-Objective Optimization and Prediction of Responses Using GRA and ANN in Micro-EDM of Ti6Al4V Using Different Tool Materials
Authors: Pal Manas Ranjan , Debnath Kishore , Sahu Santosh Kumar , Mahapatra Rabindra Narayan
Published: February 2024

An experimental investigation was conducted to evaluate the machinability of a titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) using copper (Cu), tungsten carbide (WC), and graphite (C) tools. Voltage (V), capacitance (pF), pulse-on time (Ton), and pulse-off time (Toff) were considered as the input machining parameters, whereas the material removal rate (MRR) and tool wear rate (TWR) were considered as the output machining parameters. A Taguchi L[Formula: see text] orthogonal array and gray relational analysis (GRA) were utilized to design and optimize the machining parameters for both responses. Artificial neural network (ANN) analysis was performed to predict the experimental outcomes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were used to assess the surface morphology and determine the elemental composition of the machined surface. The results indicated that the optimum machining conditions for the copper tool were 150 V, 1000 pF, 15[Formula: see text]s (Ton), and 15[Formula: see text]s (Toff). However, the optimal machining conditions for the WC were 200 V, 100 pF, 25 [Formula: see text]s (Ton), and 10[Formula: see text]s (Toff), and the optimal conditions for the C were 200 V, 1000 pF, 20[Formula: see text]s (Ton), and 25[Formula: see text]s (Toff), respectively. The highest MRR achieved using the WC tool was 9.4510 mg/s, whereas the TWR of the Cu, WC, and C tools were 1.1039 mg/s, 1.0307 mg/s, and 1.2796 mg/s, respectively. The results showed that machining with the graphite tool had a higher TWR than machining with the Cu and WC tools.
Subalgebras of Sheffer Stroke BCK-Algebras Illuminated by the New Fuzzy Set Environment
Authors: Oner Tahsin , Jun Young Bae , Senturk Ibrahim
Published: February 2024

For the purpose of dealing with the subalgebras of Sheer stroke BCK-algebras associated with the [Formula: see text]-fuzzy set, the concept of [Formula: see text]-fuzzy subalgebras in Sheffer stroke BCK-algebras is introduced and the properties involved are investigated. Conditions for creating a [Formula: see text] fuzzy subalgebra from a given fuzzy are explored. The relationship between fuzzy subalgebra and the [Formula: see text] fuzzy subalgebra is discussed, and conditions are given for the [Formula: see text]-fuzzy subalgebra to be a fuzzy subalgebra. The task of creating a new [Formula: see text]-fuzzy subalgebra is established using the given fuzzy subalgebra. Two types of level sets are created and the conditions under which they become subalgebras are explored.
Regional and Site-Specific Ground Motion Model for Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Analysis in Taiwan: A Case Study of I-Lan
Authors: Phung Van-Bang , Chang Yu-Wen , Loh Chin-Hsiung , Huang Bor-Shouh , Ha Vinh-Long , Nguyen Cong-Nghia , Pham Dinh-Hai
Published: February 2024

In this study, a probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA) using a traditional approach with a simple logic tree that handles a single-site sigma is developed to present a site-specific ground motion hazard. The analysis relies on the accelerometer data collected from the I-Lan Plain, a deep sedimentary basin in Northeastern Taiwan where hundreds of earthquake sequences (with [Formula: see text] = 4.0–7.6) were recorded by the Taiwan Strong Motion Instrument Program (TSMIP) network between 1992 and 2016. The performance of PSHA on soil and hard sites is evaluated from two representative instrumented sites (ILA048 and ILA025), using residual measures available from a ground motion model (GMM) developed by Phung et al. [ 2023 ] (referred to as Ph23), from which the uncertainties in site terms ([Formula: see text] and single-site sigma ([Formula: see text] are estimated. We address key conceptual issues in the current PSHA approach and introduce a new region- and site-specific PSHA approach in which (1) site-to-site variability ([Formula: see text] is estimated as a random variance in a mixed effects GMM regression and (2) the GMM site-specific single-site sigma ([Formula: see text] is replaced with a generic site-corrected aleatory variability ([Formula: see text]). Comparison of the region- and site-specific hazard curves from our method against the traditional method estimates at two well-recorded sites in the I-Lan region shows an approximate 50% difference in prediction ground motion values considering for 2% and 10% probability of exceedance in 50 years.
Unified deep learning model for predicting fundus fluorescein angiography image from fundus structure image
Authors: Chen Yiwei , He Yi , Ye Hong , Xing Lina , Zhang Xin , Shi Guohua
Published: February 2024

The prediction of fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) images from fundus structural images is a cutting-edge research topic in ophthalmological image processing. Prediction comprises estimating FFA from fundus camera imaging, single-phase FFA from scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), and three-phase FFA also from SLO. Although many deep learning models are available, a single model can only perform one or two of these prediction tasks. To accomplish three prediction tasks using a unified method, we propose a unified deep learning model for predicting FFA images from fundus structure images using a supervised generative adversarial network. The three prediction tasks are processed as follows: data preparation, network training under FFA supervision, and FFA image prediction from fundus structure images on a test set. By comparing the FFA images predicted by our model, pix2pix, and CycleGAN, we demonstrate the remarkable progress achieved by our proposal. The high performance of our model is validated in terms of the peak signal-to-noise ratio, structural similarity index, and mean squared error.
A Study of Green Synthesis of Nano-TiO2 Catalyst by Gossypium Leaf Extract and Its Nanocatalysis in the Synthesis of Biofuel from Gossypium Seed Oil
Authors: Rao Tata Kondala
Published: February 2024

Synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles by aqueous leaf extract of Gossypium (Gossypium arboretum) leaves on meta titanic acid [TiO(OH)2]. Rutile tetragonal TiO2 nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM studies and their particle size was calculated, which was below 100 nm. The Obtained TiO2NPs were used as catalysts in the transesterification of Gossypium seed oil, which enhanced the rate of reaction. Thus, it is a very attractive catalyst for biodiesel production from Gossypium seed oil. The effect of the amount of nano-TiO2 catalyst and microwave heating was studied. In this study, the preparation of both catalyst and biodiesel from the parts of the same Gossypium plant and the feasibility of carrying out the microwave-assisted transesterification (green process) of Gossypium seed oil by using biogenic nanoTiO2 catalyst was explored. They improve the efficiency of transesterification. The used catalyst can be recycled by simple filtration and reused without reduction in its activity. It is a green method (affords nontoxic and noncorrosive medium), clean reaction, simple experimental, isolation procedures, gives high yield and the properties of synthesized biodiesel are in good agreement with that of diesel oil. So, it may be used alone or by blending with diesel.
Community Detection Methods Based on Exploiting Attributes and Interactions on Social Networks: A Survey and Future Directions
Authors: Truong Hai Bang , Ivanovic Mirjana , Tran Van Cuong
Published: February 2024

In recent years, community detection in social network analysis has been a hot research topic that has attracted much more attention in the scientific community and a large number of articles have already been published in the literature. Community detection problems focus on determining the subgraphs of the network that have dense edges and whose nodes are expected to have similar features. Community detection has significant applications in different domains of social network analysis such as sociology, business, criminal detection and recommendation systems. The computational complexity is hampered by the huge size and the dynamic nature of social networks. This paper introduces a comprehensive survey of community detection methods in social networks based on mining attributes and interactions of users. We divide the community detection approaches into three basic categories, namely (1) node content-based approaches, (2) edge content-based approaches, and (3) node- and edge content-based approaches. We also discuss in detail the main idea of each method that is suitable for social network data. Furthermore, to promote the study of community detection, we introduce the benchmark datasets from available sources. Last, we present further research directions as well as some open challenges for the community detection problem in social networks.