bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modeling Climate‐Driven Vegetation Changes Under Contrasting Temperate and Arid Conditions in the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Bianchini Marco , Tarhouni Mohamed , Francioni Matteo , Fiorentini Marco , Rivosecchi Chiara , Msadek Jamila , Tlili Abderrazak , Chouikhi Farah , Allegrezza Marina , Tesei Giulio , Deligios Paola Antonia , Orsini Roberto , Ledda Luigi , Karatassiou Maria , Ragkos Athanasios , D'Ottavio Paride 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThis study investigates climate change impacts on spontaneous vegetation, focusing on the Mediterranean basin, a hotspot for climatic changes. Two case study areas, Monti Sibillini (central Italy, temperate) and Sidi Makhlouf (Southern Tunisia, arid), were selected for their contrasting climates and vegetation. Using WorldClim's CMCC‐ESM2 climate model, future vegetation distribution was predicted for 2050 and 2080 under SSP 245 (optimistic) and 585 (pessimistic) scenarios. Two spectral indices, NDVI (temperate area) and SAVI (arid area), served as vegetation proxies, classified into three classes using K‐means (NDVI: high = mainly associated with woodlands, medium = shrublands, continuous grasslands and crops, low = discontinuous grasslands, bare soil, and rocks; SAVI: high = mainly associated with woods, olive trees, and crops, medium = shrublands and sparse olive trees, low = bare soil and saline areas). Classes validated with ESA WorldCover 2020 data and sampled via 1390 presence‐only points. A set of 33 environmental variables (topography, soil, and bioclimatic) was screened using Pearson correlation matrices, and predictive models were built using four algorithms: MaxEnt, Random Forest, XG Boost, and Neural Network. Results revealed increasing temperatures and declining precipitation in both regions, confirming Mediterranean climate trends. Vegetation changes varied by area: in the temperate area, woodlands and shrublands were stable, but discontinuous grasslands expanded. In the arid area, woodlands gained suitable habitat, while bare soil declined under the pessimistic SSP 585 scenario. Both areas showed an upward shift for shrublands and grasslands. The models indicated significant shifts in areal distribution and environmental conditions, affecting habitat suitability and ecosystem dynamics. MaxEnt emerged as the most reliable algorithm for small presence‐only datasets, effectively predicting habitat suitability. The findings highlight significant vegetation redistribution and altered ecosystem dynamics due to climate change, underscoring the importance of these models in planning for future ecological challenges.
MetaRange.jl: A Dynamic and Metabolic Species Range Model for Plant Species
Authors: Blechschmidt Jana , Cabral Juliano Sarmento 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTProcess‐based models for range dynamics are urgently needed due to increasing intensity of human‐induced biodiversity change. Despite a few existing models that focus on demographic processes, their use remains limited compared to the widespread application of correlative approaches. This slow adoption is largely due to the challenges in calibrating biological parameters and the high computational demands for large‐scale applications. Moreover, increasing the number of simulated processes (i.e., mechanistic complexity) may further exacerbate those reasons of delay. Therefore, balancing mechanistic complexity and computational effectiveness of process‐based models is a key area for improvement. A promising research direction is to expand demographically explicit metapopulation models by integrating metabolic constraints. We translated and expanded a previously developed R metapopulation model to Julia language and published it as a Julia module. The model integrates species‐specific parameters such as preferred environmental conditions, biomass and dispersal ability with demographic rates (e.g., reproductive and mortality rates) derived from local temperature and biomass via the metabolic theory of ecology. We provide a simple application example for the model in which we illustrate a typical use case by predicting the future occurrence of Orchis militaris in Bavaria under different climate change scenarios. Our results show that climate change reduces habitat suitability overall, but some regions like the Franconian Forest and the Alps see increased suitability and abundance, confirming their role as refugia. Simulating metapopulation dynamics reveals that local population dynamics and dispersal are crucial for accurate predictions. For instance, increasing dispersal distance reduces overall abundance loss but also lessens population growth in refugia. This highlights the importance of measuring traits like dispersal ability to improve climate change forecasts.
Remotely‐Sensed Game Trails Are a Behavioral Footprint That Explains Patterns of Herbivore Habitat Use
Authors: Stears Keenan , Schmitt Melissa H. , Peel Mike J. , Ramalevha Tsumbedzo , McCauley Douglas J. , Thompson Dave I. , Burkepile Deron E. 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTTrade‐offs between food acquisition and predator avoidance shape the landscape‐scale movements of herbivores. These movements create landscape features, such as game trails, which are paths that animals use repeatedly to traverse the landscape. As such, these trails integrate behavioral trade‐offs over space and time. Here, we used remotely sensed imagery to analyze the density of game trails with spatial environmental variables to understand landscape‐scale patterns of herbivore habitat use in an African savanna. Woody plant cover was the best predictor of game trail density, with the highest densities correlating with intermediate woody plant cover. We also explored how patterns of game trail density compared to two known measures of herbivore habitat use (i.e., dung counts and maximum entropy modeling) and found strong quantitative fits. To understand the patterns revealed by the density of game trails, we explored the trade‐off between food acquisition and perceived predation risk across a woody plant cover gradient. Using behavioral observations, we found that the relationship between woody plant cover and the distribution of game trails was likely driven by the risk and reward trade‐off, with less vigilance and more feeding occurring in areas with a high density of game trails and intermediate woody cover. Ultimately, we show that game trails are a novel data source that can be used to identify broadly‐occurring patterns of herbivore habitat use over large spatial scales.
Effects of Nutritional Status During Sexual Maturation and Resource Availability on the Resource Allocation of Females in Burying Beetles
Authors: Wang Wenxia , Zhou Guojun , Zhang Wei , Tian Kai , Yao Lunguang 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTResource availability should have consequences for life‐history functions and trade‐offs among them because it influences the amounts of resources allocated to different functions. Nutritional status during a key developmental window (sexual maturation) may also have an important impact on life‐history functions and such trade‐offs. However, less is known about whether and how they interact to influence the resource allocation of individuals. Here, we simultaneously manipulated female nutritional status during sexual maturation and resource availability during breeding in a burying beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides. We then monitored the main and interactive effects of these two factors on somatic maintenance and reproductive performance of burying beetle females. We found that variation in nutritional status during sexual maturation affects the resource allocation of burying beetle females only at the pre‐hatching stage. Poor‐fed females compensated for the initial differences in energy reserves by feeding from the carcass or engaged in terminal investment strategy and invested heavily at the post‐hatching stage. Specifically, poor‐fed females allocated more into somatic maintenance (gained more weight) and less into reproduction (provided less pre‐hatching care) than well‐fed females, whereas they provided a similar amount and duration of post‐hatching care. In addition, burying beetles with different nutritional statuses vary in their response to resource availability. Poor‐fed females allocated more into both somatic maintenance (gained more weight) and reproduction (provided more pre‐hatching care) when bred on large versus small carcasses, whereas well‐fed females tend to work near their maximum capacity and thus show no response to resource availability. Finally, our findings suggest that poor‐fed females did not suffer a future cost in offspring performance. Meanwhile, a large carcass allowed females to produce more and heavier offspring. These findings enhance our understanding of how important nutritional status during a key developmental window and resource availability during breeding is for the expression of resource allocation.
Torsional Response of a Two‐Storey Low‐Damage Concrete Wall Test Building
Authors: Gu Anqi , Lu Yiqiu , Henry Richard S. , Rodgers Geoffrey W. , Zhou Ying 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTIn recent earthquakes, poor performance and collapse of buildings attributed to inelastic torsion responses have been reported. The torsional responses of buildings have been extensively studied with analytical models, but large‐scale experiments considering seismic‐induced torsion demands on buildings are rare. A shake‐table test of a two‐storey, low‐damage concrete wall building with strength asymmetry in the plan view was recently conducted, and the response of the building to both unidirectional and bi‐directional loadings at the design‐level earthquake intensity is presented. Analysis of the results includes the global responses of the structural components and the centre of mass for the test building, the strength response of unbonded post‐tensioned walls, the interaction between the translational strengths and torque, the total absorbed energy related to the torsional rotation, and variations in the eccentricities of the centres of rigidity and strength. Furthermore, the seismic response of the test building is explained with a comparison to previously published torsional mechanisms. Key outcomes from the analysis of the test results included: (1) an increase in the strength asymmetry and bi‐directional loading both amplifies the torsional rotations and effects the displacement and strength responses of the structural components along the perimeter of the diaphragm; (2) the comparison to previous torsional mechanisms shows a desirable level of agreement and supports the utilization of these mechanisms to assess the torsional performance of low‐damage wall buildings with irregularities; and (3) despite exhibiting a strong torsional response, the test building with the asymmetric strength configurations still achieved the low‐damage performance targets.
Exploring Illumination and Communication: A Comprehensive Analysis of LED Lighting in Modern Interior Architectural Designs, Enhanced by Weighted Sum Model and Cluster Analysis for Informed Lighting Selection
Authors: Sathiamoorthy Keerthana , Ganesan Indumathi 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThe study of light is crucial in modern interiors, as it dispels darkness and enhances both functionality and aesthetics. From the primal flicker of flames in ancient caves to the advanced light emitting diode (LED) systems of today, lighting has been pivotal in shaping our surroundings and experiences. In contemporary interior architectural designs, lighting fulfills not only functional roles but also greatly influences the aesthetics and atmosphere of a space. Light has been an integral element in sleek interior architecture. With the advancements in LED technology, the approach to illuminating spaces has been transformed providing energy‐efficient solutions. This paper explores the role of LED lighting in modern interior architectural designs focusing on its impact on illumination and communication. Using a weighted sum model and cluster analysis, the various LED lighting configurations are evaluated for their suitability in different spaces. Performance metrics such as illuminance levels, uniformity, adherence to standards, signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and bit error rate (BER) are analyzed. By varying the configurations of LED array per position from 10 × 10 to 100 × 100 the performance across different scales is assessed. The results offer insights for selecting LED lighting options that optimize functionality, aesthetics and energy efficiency in modern interior spaces.
Tartary Buckwheat Bran and Fructus Aurantii Combination (TBB‐FA): A Promising Therapeutic Approach for Functional Dyspepsia via Modulation of Gut Microbiota, Short‐Chain Fatty Acids and Purine Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Di , Zeng Xiaobo , Wang Xinge , Wen Wen , Wang Ping , Xu Shijun 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThis study evaluates the therapeutic impact of Fructus aurantii (FA) stir‐baked with tartary buckwheat bran (TBB) on functional dyspepsia (FD), employing a reserpine at the dose of 5 mg/kg to rats. FA, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, is processed with TBB to enhance its gastrointestinal motility benefits. The study's objectives were to assess the impact of this preparation on intestinal flora, SCFA levels, and metabolomic profiles in FD. Rats were divided into groups receiving different treatments, with the TBB‐FA group showing a 7.15–33.2 times increase in fecal SCFA levels, specifically propionate and butyrate, compared to the Fructus aurantii (FA) stir‐baked with wheat bran (WB) group (WB‐FA) (p < 0.05). Metabolomics identified 23 serum and 11 intestinal mucosal biomarkers associated with FD, predominantly linked to the purine metabolic pathway. Results indicated a significant positive correlation (r ≥ 0.7) between the abundance of Bacteroides and the expression of propionate and isobutyrate in fecal samples post‐TBB‐FA treatment. This suggests that TBB‐FA may enhance beneficial gut bacteria and SCFA production, potentially modulating the purinergic signaling pathway, which is implicated in gastrointestinal motility. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that TBB‐FA could be a promising therapeutic approach for FD by improving gut microbiota and SCFA levels and highlights the purinergic signaling pathway as a novel target for treatment. The findings pave the way for further research into the integration of traditional Chinese medicine and modern therapeutic strategies for FD.
Identification of Sensory Drivers of Liking of Plant‐Based Milk Using a Novel Palm Kernel Milk—The Effect of Reformulation and Flavors Addition Through CATA and PCA Analysis
Authors: Tong Shi‐Cheng , Siow Lee Fong , Lee Yee‐Ying 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTThere is a growing demand for a plant‐based diet (meat analogue/plant‐based milk) due to an increase in awareness towards health issues, environmental sustainability, and animal ethical issues. The replacement of dairy has recently been one of the market efforts to fulfill such demand. Yet, challenges arise when consumers are reluctant to accept plant‐based milk (PBM) due to the mismatch of organoleptic profile between PBM and the actual dairy. Hence, this study aims to understand the sensory drivers of liking in PBM through the development of a novel palm kernel milk (PKM 1.0). Furthermore, the study also aimed to examine the effect of reformulation (PKM 2.0) and flavor addition on sensorial acceptability improvement. Results showed that PKM 2.0 appeared similar to almond milk but is nutritionally denser like soymilk and oat milk. An acceptance score of 5.17 out of 9 was obtained for PKM 2.0 which is only slightly lower than 6.18 out of 9 and 6.36 out of 9 for oat milk and soymilk, respectively. Introducing flavors significantly improves the sample acceptance and reduces “bland” attributes. A high acceptance score of 7.24 out of 9 was obtained for chocolate‐flavored PKM along with a strong correlation with “rich”, “sweet”, and “creamy” attributes. A correlation matrix showed that “smooth”, “sweet”, “roasted”, “creamy”, and “rich” are the attributes the consumers desired.
Preliminary Evidence for Perturbation‐Based tACS‐EEG Biomarkers of Gamma Activity in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Palmisano Annalisa , Pezanko Luke R. , Cappon Davide , Tatti Elisa , Macone Joanna , Koch Giacomo , Smeralda Carmelo L. , Romanella Sara M. , Ruffini Giulio , Rivolta Davide , Press Daniel Z. , Pascual‐Leone Alvaro , El‐Fakhri Georges , Santarnecchi Emiliano 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTBackgroundAlzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by impaired inhibitory circuitry and GABAergic dysfunction, which is associated with reduced fast brain oscillations in the gamma band (γ, 30–90 Hz) in several animal models. Investigating such activity in human patients could lead to the identification of novel biomarkers of diagnostic and prognostic value. The current study aimed to test a multimodal “Perturbation‐based” transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation‐Electroencephalography (tACS)‐EEG protocol to detect how responses to tACS in AD patients correlate with patients' clinical phenotype.MethodsFourteen participants with mild to moderate dementia due to AD underwent a baseline assessment including cognitive status, peripheral neuroinflammation, and resting‐state (rs)EEG. The tACS‐EEG recordings included brief (6′) tACS blocks of gamma (i.e., 40 Hz) stimulation administered through 4 different montages, with Pre/Post 32‐Channels EEG for each block. Changes in tACS‐EEG and rsEEG γ band power with respect to baseline were adopted as a metric of induction and compared with cognitive scores and neuroinflammatory biomarkers.ResultsWe found positive correlations between 40 Hz‐induced γ activity in fronto‐central‐parietal areas and patient cognitive status and negative ones with neuroinflammatory markers. Participants with greater cognitive impairment exhibited less γ induction and higher peripheral neuroinflammation. The same analysis performed with spectral power from baseline rsEEG resulted in no significant correlations, promoting the value of tACS‐based perturbation for capturing individual differences in pathology‐related brain features.ConclusionsOur work suggests a link between tACS‐induced γ band spectral power and clinical severity, with weaker γ induction corresponding to more severe clinical/cognitive impairment. This study provides preliminary support for the development of novel physiological biomarkers and therapeutic targets based on disease severity.
Rapid Fabrication of Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogel Foams With Encapsulated Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Chronic Wound Treatment
Authors: Thai Nghia Le Ba , Fittante Emily , Ma Zhen , Monroe Mary Beth 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTChronic wounds present a major healthcare challenge around the world, and significant hurdles remain in their effective treatment due to limitations in accessible treatment options. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with multifunctional differentiation and modulatory properties have been delivered to chronic wounds to enhance closure but have limited engraftment when delivered without a scaffold. In this study, hybrid porous hydrogel foams composed of modified polyvinyl alcohol and gelatin were developed that are suitable for rapid and facile MSC encapsulation, fully degradable, and supportive of wound healing. Rapid fabrication and encapsulation within porous foams was achieved using a cytocompatible gas blowing process. The hybrid hydrogels have tunable degradation rates based on chemistry, with complete mass loss achieved within 2–6 weeks, which is compatible with chronic wound closure rates. High encapsulated A375 epithelial cell and MSC viability with maintained cell functionality over 2 weeks reveals the potential of these hydrogels to serve as cell delivery systems for chronic wound treatment. An ex vivo porcine skin wound model demonstrated enhanced healing after application of cell‐laden hydrogel foams. Overall, hybrid hydrogel foams with encapsulated therapeutic cells have the capacity for robust wound healing and are a promising platform for chronic wound dressings.
Inhibition of GPR4 Attenuates the Formation of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Through Inhibiting the SP‐1/VEGF‐A Signaling
Authors: Lei Chenggang , Zhou Qian , Lv Lizhen , Liu Di , Qian Haiyun 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTAbdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a severe cardiovascular disease (CVD) that is partly attributable to endothelial dysfunction, inflammatory response, and angiogenesis.G protein‐coupled receptor 4 (GPR4), a proton‐sensitive G protein‐coupled receptor that is abundantly expressed in vascular endothelial cells, has been associated with numerous physiological functions. Nevertheless, its potential involvement in the development of AAA remains unexplored.In this study, we examined the impact of GPR4 deletion on the development of AAA in ApoE‐deficient mice. The mice were categorized into four distinct groups: the ApoE−/− with saline group, the ApoE−/−GPR4−/− with saline group, the ApoE−/− with Ang II group, and the ApoE−/−GPR4−/− with Ang II group. AAA were induced in the ApoE−/− mice through the perfusion of angiotensin II (Ang II). Notably, GPR4 was substantially elevated in the AAA tissues from both human subjects and experimental mice. The deletion of GPR4 substantially decreased the formation of Ang II‐induced AAA, damages to elastin, and the expression of aortic inflammatory cytokines interleukin 6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α), as well as vascular endothelial growth factor A/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGF‐A/VEGF‐R2), in ApoE−/− mice. Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were transfected with lenti‐viral GPR4 shRNA and subsequently stimulated with Ang II. Our findings indicate that the knockout of GPR4 attenuated Ang II‐induced angiogenic tube formation in HAECs by decreasing the expression of VEGF‐A and VEGF‐R2. Furthermore, GPR4 knockout also hindered the activation of specificity protein‐1 (SP‐1) by reducing its expression and transcriptional activity. Notably, the overexpression of SP‐1 reversed the inhibitory effects of GPR4 knockout on angiogenic tube formation and the expression of VEGF‐A/VEGF‐R2. This suggests that the protective effects of GPR4 knockout are achieved through the inhibition of SP‐1. In summary, the absence of GPR4 impeded AAA formation, indicating that GPR4 could potentially serve as a therapeutic target for AAA.