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Fallback foods (FBF), categorized into staple and filler types, are suboptimal food sources chosen by animals in response to a scarcity of preferred food items during specific periods. Using lichens as FBF by Yunnan snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus bieti) represents a distinctive ecological adaptation and evolutionary development within nonhuman primates. This study delves into the annual dietary choices of the species to address issues, elucidate the nutritional value, and understand the ecological significance of lichens for this primate species, which resides at the highest altitudes and experiences the coldest weather among global primates. The findings reveal that the lichens consumed by the monkeys serve as the staple FBF, with Bryoria spp. and Usnea longissima being the primary dietary species. The former is the preferred choice, providing higher digestible fiber (neutral detergent fiber) levels but lower tannin, fat, ADF, and energy levels. During the dry season, lichens dominate as the monkeys' primary food and nutritional resources. In the wet season, they act as a fundamental food selection rather than an ideal dietary choice, substituting nutrients from fruits, seeds, and leaves. Compared to other Asian colobine counterparts, this species exhibits the highest lichen consumption but the lowest proportions of leaves, flowers, and seeds. This study provides valuable evidence and information for developing or amending conservation strategies and guidelines for the dietary management of captive breeding of monkeys, one of the world's critically endangered primate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fallback foods (FBF), categorized into staple and filler types, are suboptimal food sources chosen by animals in response to a scarcity of preferred food items during specific periods. Using lichens as FBF by Yunnan snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus bieti) represents a distinctive ecological adaptation and evolutionary development within nonhuman primates. This study delves into the annual dietary choices of the species to address issues, elucidate the nutritional value, and understand the ecological significance of lichens for this primate species, which resides at the highest altitudes and experiences the coldest weather among global primates. The findings reveal that the lichens consumed by the monkeys serve as the staple FBF, with Bryoria spp. and Usnea longissima being the primary dietary species. The former is the preferred choice, providing higher digestible fiber (neutral detergent fiber) levels but lower tannin, fat, ADF, and energy levels. During the dry season, lichens dominate as the monkeys' primary food and nutritional resources. In the wet season, they act as a fundamental food selection rather than an ideal dietary choice, substituting nutrients from fruits, seeds, and leaves. Compared to other Asian colobine counterparts, this species exhibits the highest lichen consumption but the lowest proportions of leaves, flowers, and seeds. This study provides valuable evidence and information for developing or amending conservation strategies and guidelines for the dietary management of captive breeding of monkeys, one of the world's critically endangered primate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China announced the development of its first 5 national parks in 2021, the primary objective of which is to conserve the natural state and integrity of natural ecosystems. As such, ecosystem services and biodiversity levels are crucial assessment factors for the parks. For Giant Panda National Park (GPNP), we evaluated ecological sensitivity based on water and soil erosion and rocky desertification; ecosystem services based on headwater conservation, soil and water conservation, and biodiversity conservation; and presence of giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) and sympatric species (e.g., takin [Budorcas taxicolor], Asiatic black bear [Ursus thibetanus]) habitat suitability derived from niche modeling to identify the ecosystem status and assess ecological problems within the park. From our results, we proposed ecologically critical areas to target to meet the park's goals. The suitable habitat for pandas and sympatric species encompassed 62.98% of the park and occurred mainly in the Minshan Mountains. One quarter of the total area (25.67%) contained areas important for ecosystem services. Ecologically sensitive and extremely sensitive areas covered 88.78% of the park and were distributed mainly in Qionglaishan and Minshan Mountains. This coverage indicated that there was much habitat for pandas and sympatric species but that the ecosystems in GPNP are vulnerable. Therefore, ecologically critical areas encompassed all suitable habitats for all the species examined and areas important and extremely important to ecosystem service provision,ecologically sensitive and extremely sensitive areas, encompassed 15.17% of panda habitat, accounted for 16.37% of the GPNP area, and were distributed mainly in the Minshan Mountains. Our results indicated where conservation efforts should be focused in the park and that by identifying ecologically critical areas managers can provide targeted protection for wildlife habitat and ecosystems and effectively and efficiently protect the composite ecosystem. Additionally, our methods can be used to inform development of new national parks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the process of industrial production, manual assembly of workpieces exists with low efficiency and high intensity, and some of the assembly process of the human body has a certain degree of danger. At the same time, traditional machine learning algorithms are difficult to adapt to the complexity of the current industrial field environment; the change in the environment will greatly affect the accuracy of the robot's work. Therefore, this paper proposes a method based on the combination of machine vision and the YOLOv5 deep learning model to obtain the disk porous localization information, after coordinate mapping by the ROS communication control robotic arm work, in order to improve the anti-interference ability of the environment and work efficiency but also reduce the danger to the human body. The system utilizes a camera to collect real-time images of targets in complex environments and, then, trains and processes them for recognition such that coordinate localization information can be obtained. This information is converted into coordinates under the robot coordinate system through hand–eye calibration, and the robot is then controlled to complete multi-hole localization and tracking by means of communication between the upper and lower computers. The results show that there is a high accuracy in the training and testing of the target object, and the control accuracy of the robotic arm is also relatively high. The method has strong anti-interference to the complex environment of industry and exhibits a certain feasibility and effectiveness. It lays a foundation for achieving the automated installation of docking disk workpieces in industrial production and also provides a more favorable choice for the production and installation of the process of screw positioning needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diet and nutrition comprise a complex, multi-faceted interface between animal biology and food environments. With accumulating information on the many facets of this association arises a need for systems-based approaches that integrate dietary components and their links with ecology, feeding, post-ingestive processes and the functional and ecological consequences of these interactions. We briefly show how a modelling approach, nutritional geometry, has used the experimental control afforded in laboratory studies to begin to unravel these links. Laboratory studies, however, have limited ability to establish whether and how the feeding and physiological mechanisms interface with realistic ecological environments. We next provide an overview of observational field studies of free-ranging primates that have examined this, producing largely correlative data suggesting that similar feeding mechanisms operate in the wild as in the laboratory. Significant challenges remain, however, in establishing causal links between feeding, resource variation and physiological processes in the wild. We end with a more detailed account of two studies of temperate primates that have capitalized on the discrete variation provided by seasonal environments to strengthen causal inference in field studies and link patterns of intake to dynamics of nutrient processing. This article is part of the theme issue 'Food processing and nutritional assimilation in animals'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new type of single-faced superposed shear wall system is proposed based on the single-faced superposed shear wall structure. The nonlinear finite element analysis of a new splicing form of single-faced superposed shear wall components is carried out by using the method of combining experimental research and ABAQUS finite element software analysis. The impact of noncolumn on the connection performance of vertical seam is studied. The analysis shows no significant difference in the effect of eliminating concealed column on the hysteretic performance and bearing capacity of the single-faced superposed shear wall with the joint. The single-faced composite shear wall with two different splicing forms presents bending-shear failure. The single-faced composite shear wall model without concealed column design can also maintain good overall performance and seismic behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) are typical switching devices capable of detecting single photons with almost 100% detection efficiency. However, they cannot determine the exact number of incident photons during a detection event. Multi-pixel SNSPDs employing multiple read-out channels can provide photon number resolvability (PNR), but they require increased cooling power and costly multi-channel electronic systems. In this work, a single-flux quantum (SFQ) circuit is employed, and PNR based on multi-pixel SNSPDs is successfully demonstrated. A multi-input magnetically coupled DC/SFQ converter (MMD2Q) circuit with a mutual inductance M is used to combine and record signals from a multi-pixel SNSPD device. The designed circuit is capable of discriminating the amplitude of the combined signals in accuracy of Φ 0/ M with Φ 0 being a single magnetic flux quantum. By employing the MMD2Q circuit, the discrimination of up to 40 photons can be simulated. A 4-parallel-input MMD2Q circuit is fabricated, and a PNR of 3 is successfully demonstrated for an SNSPD array with one channel reserved for the functional verification. The results confirm that an MMD2Q circuit is an effective tool for implementing PNR with multi-pixel SNSPDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient methodology for the synthesis of dibenzo[ a , c ]carbazoles via annulation of 2,3-diphenyl-1 H -indoles in EtOH under UV light irradiation (λ = 365 nm) along with hydrogen evolution is described. This method exhibits the advantages of mild reaction conditions, no requirement of any oxidants and catalysts, and release of hydrogen as the only byproduct. Notably, the mechanism investigation confirms that the trans -4b,8a-dihydro-9 H -dibenzo[ a , c ]carbazole intermediate could convert into cis -4b,8a-dihydro-9 H -dibenzo[ a , c ]carbazole, which relies on the nitrogen atom of the indole ring. This is followed by intramolecular dehydrogenation which yields the dibenzo[ a , c ]carbazoles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of energy expenditure informs conservation managers for long term plans for endangered species health and habitat suitability. We measured field metabolic rate (FMR) of free-roaming giant pandas in large enclosures in a nature reserve using the doubly labeled water method. Giant pandas in zoo like enclosures had a similar FMR (14,182 kJ/day) to giant pandas in larger field enclosures (13,280 kJ/day). In winter, giant pandas raised their metabolic rates when living at − 2.4 °C (36,108 kJ/day) indicating that they were below their thermal neutral zone. The lower critical temperature for thermoregulation was about 8.0 °C and the upper critical temperature was about 28 °C. Giant panda FMRs were somewhat lower than active metabolic rates of sloth bears, lower than FMRs of grizzly bears and polar bears and 69 and 81% of predicted values based on a regression of FMR versus body mass of mammals. That is probably due to their lower levels of activity since other bears actively forage for food over a larger home range and pandas often sit in a patch of bamboo and eat bamboo for hours at a time. The low metabolic rates of giant pandas in summer, their inability to acquire fat stores to hibernate in winter, and their ability to raise their metabolic rate to thermoregulate in winter are energetic adaptations related to eating a diet composed almost exclusively of bamboo. Differences in FMR of giant pandas between our study and previous studies (one similar and one lower) appear to be due to differences in activity of the giant pandas in those studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apposite conceptualization and measurement of resource variation is critical for understanding many issues in ecology, including ecological niches, persistence and distribution of populations, the structure of communities and population resilience to perturbations.We apply the nutritional geometry framework to conceptualize and quantify the responses of a temperate‐living primate, the golden snub‐nosed monkey Rhinopithecus roxellana to variation in resource quality and quantity and in nutrient requirements associated with seasonal environments.We present a geometric model distinguishing qualitative constraint, quantitative constraint and 'pseudo‐constraint' whereby nutrient intakes resemble response to qualitative resource constraint but are in fact driven by variation in nutrient requirements. The model is applied to analyse nutrient intakes recorded in 164 full‐day observations of monkeys from two populations, one wild and the other captive, across seasons. Additionally, we recorded the diet of a single animal over 32 consecutive days in the wild.Despite considerable differences in available resources, the captive and wild populations showed marked similarities in nutrient intakes, including indistinguishable amounts and ratios of ingested macronutrients during summer and autumn and strong year‐round maintenance of protein compared to seasonally variable fat and carbohydrate intakes. These similarities suggest homeostatically regulated nutritional targets and provide reference points to identify factors driving population differences in macronutrient intake in winter and spring.Our framework enabled us to distinguish examples of quantitative, qualitative and 'pseudo‐constraint'. We suggest that this approach can increase the resolution at which resource constraint is conceptualized and measured in ecological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both biotic and abiotic factors play important roles in influencing ecological distributions and niche limits. Where biotic and abiotic stressors co‐occur in space and time, homeostatic systems face a scenario in which stressors can compound to impose a challenge that is greater than the sum of the separate factors. We studied the homeostatic strategies of the golden snub‐nosed monkey Rhinopithecus roxellana, a species living in temperate deciduous forests at the edge of the global distribution range for folivorous primates, to cope with the co‐occurrence of cold temperatures and resource scarcity during winter. We discovered that in winter the monkeys experience a dietary energy deficit of 101 kJ mbm−1 d−1 compared with calculated needs, despite increased feeding. This is partly offset by behavioral changes (reduced locomotion and increased resting) and reducing skin temperature by an average of 3.2°C through a cutaneous vasoconstriction to decrease heat loss. However, their major strategy is ingesting surplus energy and accumulating fat reserves when food was not limiting during summer and autumn. Their 14% of body mass lost over the winter represented an energy yield of 102 kJ mbm−1 d−1, which closely matched the calculated winter energy deficit of 101 kJ mbm−1 d−1. However, the latter value assumes that all the 75.41 kJ mbm−1 d−1 of protein ingested in winter was available for energy metabolism. This is almost certainly an over‐estimate, suggesting that the study population was in negative energy balance over the study period. Our study therefore suggests that despite its suit of integrated homeostatic responses, the confluence of low temperatures and resource limitation during winter places this edge‐of‐range primate close the threshold of what is energetically viable. It also provides a framework for quantitative models predicting the vulnerability of temperate primates to global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic polymeric flocculants, as useful and widely used technology, have been applied for heavy metal pollution control. However, although molecular weight is an important indicator, it is not a comprehensive indicator for evaluating flocculation efficiencies of ionic flocculants. Herein, specific charge density (SCD), defined as charge density of unit molecular weight, is a new indicator to evaluate the performance of ionic polymer flocculants. Polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDADMAC) as coagulant aid is investigated to flocculate different anionic pollutants. The results indicate that PDADMAC with a high SCD value could benefit to the flocculation efficiency of anionic pollutants. According to statistical analysis, the average pollutants residual could decrease to 8.64%–32.27% by that with high SCD value, especially for high valence pollutants with a decrease from 58.97%–60.40% to 27.35%–32.27%. The indicator of SCD values not only could characterize the performance of polymer flocculants but also provide a new sight of the flocculation mechanism of polymeric flocculants. Practitioner points: Specific Charge Density (SCD) is defined as charge density of unit molecularweight.SCD as a new indicator to evaluate comprehensively the performance of flocculants.Removal efficiencies by flocculation increase with SCD value of PDADMAC increase.Effect of SCD of PDADMAC on removal of pollutant with high valence is significant.SCD of PDADMAC is less indicative for removal of pollutant with low valence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Homeostatic responses of animals to environmentally induced changes in nutrient requirements provide a powerful basis for predictive ecological models, and yet, such responses are virtually unstudied in the wild. We tested for macronutrient‐specific compensatory feeding responses by free‐ranging golden snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana) inhabiting high altitude temperate forests, where they experience a substantial difference in ambient temperature in cold winters vs. warmer springs. The monkeys had free access to natural foods throughout the year, and to ensure that any seasonal differences in nutrient intake were due to homeostatic compensation and not constraints on food availability, we studied the monkeys during periods in which they were provisioned with the same amount of supplementary foods in winter and spring. Thermoregulatory energy costs in winter and spring were calculated using partitional calorimetric estimations of convective and radiative heat loss obtained from thermal imaging of free‐ranging monkeys in situ. Daily nutrient intakes were measured using continuous focal follows (average 6.9 hr/day) of free‐ranging individuals (27 days in spring and 28 days in winter). We used a nutritional geometry framework to integrate these data and test three predictions: (a) In order to remain thermoneutral (balance heat loss with heat expenditure), golden snub‐nosed monkeys increase daily energy consumption during the winter compared to spring; (b) this increase is achieved specifically by increasing intake of the primary energetic nutrients, carbohydrate and lipid, relative to protein; and (c) the seasonal increase in ingested fat and carbohydrate calories will quantitatively match the additional thermoregulatory costs in winter compared with spring. Our results showed that daily metabolisable energy intake in winter (721.5 kJ/mbm) was 1.8 times that in spring (399 kJ/mbm). As predicted, this difference was specific to fat and carbohydrate, whereas seasonal protein intake did not differ significantly. Winter consumption of fat and carbohydrate was 326 kJ/mbm per day greater than in spring, a value that closely matched the seasonal difference in the daily energetic costs of thermoregulation (329 kJ/mbm). This is the first study to test for a match between nutrient‐specific homeostatic compensation and environmentally induced perturbations in nutrient requirements in free‐ranging animals and underpins the potential for the homeostasis framework to provide predictive power to ecological models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great deal of spatial and temporal variation in the availability and nutritional quality of foods eaten by animals, particularly in temperate regions where winter brings lengthy periods of leaf and fruit scarcity. We analyzed the availability, dietary composition, and macronutrients of the foods eaten by the northern‐most golden snub‐nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) population in the Qinling Mountains, China to understand food choice in a highly seasonal environment dominated by deciduous trees. During the warm months between April and November, leaves are consumed in proportion to their availability, while during the leaf‐scarce months between December and March, bark and leaf/flower buds comprise most of their diet. When leaves dominated their diet, golden snub‐nosed monkeys preferentially selected leaves with higher ratios of crude protein to acid detergent fiber. While when leaves were less available, bark and leaf/flower buds that were high in nonstructural carbohydrates and energy, and low in acid detergent fiber were selected. Southern populations of golden snub‐nosed monkey can turn to eating lichen, however, the population studied here in this lichen‐absent area have adapted to their cool deciduous habitat by instead consuming buds and bark. Carbohydrate and energy rich foods appear to be the critical resources required for the persistence of this species in temperate habitat. The dietary flexibility of these monkeys, both among seasons and populations, likely contributes to their wide distribution over a range of habitats and environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) has a similar diet, primarily bamboo, and shares the same habitat as the giant panda, Ailuropoda melanoleuca. There are considerable efforts underway to understand the ecology of the red panda and to increase its populations in natural reserves. Yet it is difficult to design an effective strategy for red panda reintroduction if we do not understand its basic biology. Here we report the resting metabolic rate of the red panda and find that it is higher than previously measured on animals from a zoo. The resting metabolic rate was 0.290 ml/g/h (range 0.204–0.342) in summer and 0.361 ml/g/h in winter (range 0.331–0.406), with a statistically significant difference due to season and test temperature. Temperatures in summer were probably within the thermal neutral zone for metabolism but winter temperatures were below the thermal neutral zone. There was no difference in metabolic rate between male and female red pandas and no difference due to mass. Our values for metabolic rate were much higher than those measured by McNab for 2 red pandas from a zoo. The larger sample size (17), more natural conditions at the Panda Base and improved accuracy of the metabolic instruments provided more accurate metabolism measurements. Contrary to our expectations based on their low quality bamboo diet, the metabolic rates of red pandas were similar to mammals of the same size. Based on their metabolic rates red pandas would not be limited by their food supply in natural reserves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunosuppressive therapy is the main treatment for patients with interstitial lung diseases (ILD) secondary to dermatomyositis (DM). Microbial colonization or infection might be very common for these patients. However, the relationship between immunotherapy and microorganism isolates are not fully understood in these patients. This study retrospectively analyzed on the clinical features in DM-ILD patients who had positive microbiological results during immunosuppressive therapy in our hospital. Patients were divided into two groups, according to the result of microbiological study. Comparisons in infection-related data in various contexts were carried out. As a result, patients who had positive microbiological findings were manifested as higher fever degree [p = 0.01; positive group: mean ± SEM: 38.83 ± 0.15 °C, N = 28; negative group: mean ± SEM: 38.27 ± 0.15 °C; N = 28], higher serum C-reactive protein (CRP) [p less than 0.001, positive group (mean ± SEM: 31.6 ± 5.2 mg/L; N = 43); negative (mean ± SEM: 11.1 ± 1.6 mg/L; N = 86)], and lower CD3+CD4+ T cells counts than that of negative populations [p = 0.03, positive group (mean ± SEM: 0.27 ± 0.05 × 109/L; N = 31); negative group (mean ± SEM: 0.400 ± 0.03 × 109/L; N = 44)]. Longer hospital stay [p = 0.005; 21/36 vs 31/99] and higher serum FK506 concentrations [p = 0.02, positive group: 9.80 ± 1.87 ng/ml; N = 7; negative group: 5.76 ± 0.73 ng/ml; N = 27] were related to the occurrence of microorganism in the airway. Meanwhile, short-term investigation of in-hospital mortality related to airway microbial carry had no statistical difference between the both groups [p = 0.21, Log-rank (Mantel-Cox) Test]. Occurrence of positive isolates in DM-ILD patients may relate to higher inflammatory markers CRP, lower CD4 + T cells counts, high concentration of serum FK-506, and longer hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose:The association between the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene C677T polymorphism and ischemic stroke (IS) has been extensively studied; however, the results from genetic association studies have been inconsistent even in the Chinese population. As far as we know, there was no previous meta-analysis concerning this association in the Chinese population. Therefore, the aim of our meta-analysis was to further evaluate the association in the Chinese population.Methods:We collected all of the relevant studies from Pubmed, OVID, Embase, Chinese Wan Fang database, CNKI, Chongqing VIP database and CBM up to August 2014. The available data was analyzed by Stata (version 12.0). We used odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to present the strength of the association. Heterogeneity was evaluated by theQ-test andI2statistic. Different genetic models, subgroup analysis, publication bias and sensitivity analysis were used to improve the comprehensive understanding.Results:The results showed a significant association between theMTHFRgene C677T polymorphism and IS in six genetic models (additive model: OR = 1.34, 95%CI: 1.17∼1.54,p< 0.001; dominant model: OR = 1.44, 95% CI:1.26∼1.64,p< 0.001; recessive model: OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.15∼1.83,p= 0.001; heterozygote model: OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.18∼1.55,p< 0.001; homozygote model: OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.34∼2.41,p< 0.001; and allelic model: OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.17∼1.53,p< 0.001) based on the overall population, as well as subgroup analysis. In addition, the similar results were obtained in the sensitivity analysis based on studies with the high quality.Conclusions:This meta-analysis presented a significant association between theMTHFRgene C677T polymorphism and IS, the T allele might be a risk factor for IS in the Chinese population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The real-time receiving and processing of various types of streaming sensor data is the foundation requirements of the Internet of things intelligent application. Taking a city real-time vehicle monitoring system as an example, the system exposed the issue of real-time data receiving and efficient data querying which restricted each other. Against this issue, this paper proposed a structured data query optimization method, which applied to data management in the Internet of things, to provide efficient data query capabilities under the protection of real-time data written. The method used database cluster to response the performance requirements of concurrent access to data, and through the master-slave delay replication technology to reduce the influence of data query on the performance of data receiving, and used the data partitioning and data caching technology to enhance the query performance of single data node. Experimental results show that this method can reduce the influence on data written to some extent and improve the efficiency of data query. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbes may play a substantial role in the weathering and alteration of minerals. However, not enough concerns have been realized about the complexity of microbe-mineral interactions. The present work reports the interactions between fungi and minerals with emphasis on the role of silicate minerals as the metal donor for the precipitation of secondary mineral. Herein, two magnesium-bearing silicate minerals with different structures, forsterite and talc, were added to the submerged cultures ofAspergillus niger(A. niger). It is shown that forsterite exhibits a better solubilization effect than talc, and the secondary mineral glushinskite only precipitates in the presence of forsterite substrates. Oxalic acid excreted byA. nigerplays a key role in the biological leaching and mineralization processes. Moreover, the forsterite particles with certain size added to the cultures tend to inhibit the aggregation of fungal biomass, and therefore affect the morphology ofA. nigeraggregates in the submerged culture. With varying forsterite particle size, distinct fungal morphological forms including mycelial pellets and freely dispersed hyphae can be formed, which have a direct impact on fungal metabolism and ultimately result in varied crystallization habits of the neo-minerals. Particularly in the culture with −40/+60 mesh forsterite particles, the mineralized glushinskite mainly exhibit tubular forms; whereas when forsterite particles were at −100/+120 mesh or −200 mesh, pyramidal prisms are obtained. We show that the environmental factors such as the particle size of mineral substrate could influence the fungal morphology and metabolic activities, thereby leading to different morphological neo-minerals. The dependence of biomineral morphology on the environmental factors can open up a novel avenue to understanding the microorganism-environment interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The autoimmune-type Fcgr2b with deletion polymorphism in AP-4-binding site in the promoter region is suggested to be one most plausible susceptibility gene for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We previously found that there is a strong epistatic interaction between the autoimmune-type Fcgr2b polymorphism and Y chromosome-linked autoimmune acceleration (Yaa) mutation, thus severe SLE observed in BXSB males neither develops in BXSB females nor in the congenic BXSB.IIBB6 males carrying wild C57BL/6-type Fcgr2b. Present studies examined whether the wild-type Fcgr2b could suppress SLE in mice carrying Yaa-unrelated SLE susceptibility genes. Comparison of disease features between SLE-prone (NZW × BXSB) F1 females and the congenic (NZW × BXSB.IIBB6) F1 females carrying wild-type Fcgr2b showed that, as compared with findings in the former, SLE features including activation/proliferation of not only B cells but also T cells and monocytes/macrophages were all inhibited in the latter. It was concluded that the autoimmune-type Fcgr2b promotes and the wild-type inhibits SLE through mechanisms that promote and suppress activation/proliferation of a wide variety of immune cells, respectively. Thus, the Fcgr2b polymorphism is a key genetic element for not only Yaa-related but also Yaa-unrelated lupus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A high surface area magnetic nanocomposite titania/silica/cobalt ferrite photocatalyst was synthesized via controlled hydrolysis and condensation of water-soluble titanium bis-ammonium lactato dihydroxide at relatively lower temperature (<97°C) and characterized by XRD, FTIR, HRTEM, BET, XPS and magnetism analysis. The results reveal that as-prepared photocatalyst possesses a core/shell structure involving ferrite particles sequentially coated with coherent silica layer and anatase nanocrystallites via a heterogeneous nucleation and growth mechanism. The photodegradation of the photocatalyst for methyl orange is comparative to Degussa P25 and higher than the heated samples, being tentatively attributed to the proper microstructure and isolation/immobilization functions by silica intermediate phase as well as the surface-bond hydroxyl groups. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse is a useful model of autoimmune type 1 diabetes exhibiting many similarities to human type 1 diabetes patients including the presence of auto-reactive T cells and pancreas-specific autoantiboies. Multiple Idd loci control the development of diabetes in NOD mice. CD72, a B cell membrane-bound glycoprotein carrying a C-type lectin-like domain, is an inhibitory co-receptor of the B cell antigen receptor (BCR) that negatively regulates BCR signaling. Among four known haplotypes of mouse CD72, NOD mice carry the CD72c haplotype, whereas most of the other inbred strains of mice carry either CD72a or CD72b. In this study, we generated congenic NOD.CD72b mice that carry C57BL/6 (B6) mouse-derived centromeric chromosome 4 interval (24–45cM) surrounding the CD72b locus. Unexpectedly, NOD.CD72b mice were not protected from diabetes, but rather exhibited accelerated development of both insulitis and diabetes. Our result defines novel locus or loci in the vicinity of CD72 gene that negatively control diabetes, indicating that NOD disease is under complex genetic controls of not only Idd genes but also disease-resistant genes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Green tea, owing to its beneficial effect on health, is becoming more and more popular worldwide. (−)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the main ingredient of green tea polyphenols, is a known protective effect on injured neurons in neurodegenerative disease, such as Alzheimer''s disease and Parkinson''s disease. Paraquat (PQ) is a widely used herbicide that possesses a similar structure to MPP+ and is toxic to mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons. In the present study, PQ-injured PC12 cells were chosen as an in vitro cell model of Parkinson''s disease and the neuroprotective effects of EGCG were investigated. The results showed that EGCG attenuated apoptosis of PC12 cells induced by PQ. The possible mechanism may be associated with maintaining mitochondrial membrane potential, inhibiting caspase-3 activity and downregulating the expression of pro-apoptotic protein Smac in cytosol. The present study supports the notion that EGCG could be used as a neuroprotective agent for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The significance of cadherin superfamily proteins in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) biology is undefined. Here we describe recent studies of the Fat1 protocadherin. Fat1 expression in VSMCs increases significantly after arterial injury or growth factor stimulation. Fat1 knockdown decreases VSMC migration in vitro, but surprisingly, enhances cyclin D1 expression and proliferation. Despite limited similarity to classical cadherins, the Fat1 intracellular domain (Fat1IC interacts with β-catenin, inhibiting both its nuclear localization and transcriptional activity. Fat1 undergoes cleavage and Fat1IC species localize to the nucleus; however, inhibition of the cyclin D1 promoter by truncated Fat1IC proteins corresponds to their presence outside the nucleus, which argues against repression of β-catenin--dependent transcription by nuclear Fat1IC. These findings extend recent observations about Fat1 and migration in other cell types, and demonstrate for the first time its anti-proliferative activity and interaction with β-catenin. Because it is induced after arterial injury, Fat1 may control VSMC functions central to vascular remodeling by facilitating migration and limiting proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Increasing evidence suggests that stimulation of β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) activates mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), particularly extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) which is involved in the regulation of a multitude of cellular processes. However, the subtype-specific effects of βAR stimulation on MAPKs remain to be elucidated.Aims. In the present study, we determined whether β1AR and β2AR differ in regulating ERK1/2 activation in the myocardium.Methods. To avoid complicated interactions between βAR subtypes, we separately expressed either β1AR or β2AR using adenoviral gene transfer in adult mouse cardiac myocytes from β1β2 double knockout mice.Results. Stimulation of β1AR by isoproterenol markedly increased ERK phosphorylation and activity by 2.1-fold in a time-dependent manner. In contrast, stimulation of β2AR slightly decreased ERK activation. Furthermore, pretreatment of cells with pertussis toxin to disrupt Gi function did not affect the inhibitory effect of β2AR on ERK1/2.Conclusions. We have shown that stimulation of cardiac βAR subtypes differentially regulates ERK activation in adult mouse cardiomyocytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We obtain a new substitution for modules over exchange rings satisfying related comparability. Also we investigate the structure of modules over exchange rings satisfying power comparability and provide a new class of exchange rings satisfying related comparability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conservation of the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), as an iconic vulnerable species, has received great attention in the past few decades. As an important part of the giant panda population survey, the age distribution of giant pandas can not only provide useful instruction but also verify the effectiveness of conservation measures. The current methods for determining the age groups of giant pandas are mainly based on the size and length of giant panda feces and the bite value of intact bamboo in the feces, or in the case of a skeleton, through the wear of molars and the growth line of teeth. These methods have certain flaws that limit their applications. In this study, we developed a deep learning method to study age group classification based on facial images of captive giant pandas and achieved an accuracy of 85.99% on EfficientNet. The experimental results show that the faces of giant pandas contain some age information, which mainly concentrated between the eyes of giant pandas. In addition, the results also indicate that it is feasible to identify the age groups of giant pandas through the analysis of facial images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolutionary development and phylogenetic division between Asian and African cercopithecoids (Cercopithecidae) have attracted significant attention in genetics, molecular biology, behavior, and morphology. However, less emphasis has been placed on how they have evolved morphologically after divergence, approximately 10 million years ago (mya) for Colobinae and 5–7 mya for Cercopithecinae, corresponding to the significant variation and diversity in landscape, climate, habitat, and ecologies between the two continents. This study examines whether such variation and diversity have been reflected in dental morphology. Our findings reveal substantial differences between Hylobatidae and Cercopithecidae, as well as between Colobinae and Cercopithecinae, indicating that size-adjusted dental variation mainly reveals the diversity associated with evolution and phylogenetic inertia. Interestingly, despite the earlier divergence of Afro-Asian colobines, their Euclidean Distance is comparable to that of Afro-Asian cercopithecines. This implies that latecomers (macaques) demonstrate equivalent diversity to colobines due to their extensive dispersion and broader adaptative radiation on the same continent. Colobinae exhibit more developed premolar and molar regions. However, when post-canine teeth are considered alone, Colobinae present a significantly larger molar size than Asian Cercopithecinae but not with the African Cercopihecinae. This contradicts the hypothesis that folivorous primates (Colobinae) have larger post-canine molars than frugivorous ones (Cercopithecinae). The considerable molar size in African Cercopithecinae must be associated with their more protrusive and larger facial structure rather than a specific dietary preference, being less diverse than their Asian counterparts—a trait that has evolved phylogenetically. This study also paves the way for further exploration of facial and cranial differences between the continental groups of Cercopithecinae and Colobinae, delving deeply into diversity variation due to geographical and climatic adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) are a critically endangered relict species, often referred to as a "national treasure" and a "living fossil". China has implemented an ex situ conservation model in order to safeguard and revitalize the population. Given their highly solitary nature, sub-adult giant pandas typically undergo a phase of group living during the ex situ protection process aimed at optimizing space and management efficiency. However, as a solitary species, giant pandas' behavioral responses and physiological performance in social settings remain elusive. This study aims to address these questions by observing the daily behavior of giant pandas through photography and analyzing their cortisol levels and intestinal microbial identification to gain insights into their physiological performance. Based on our current findings, we have determined that the group-rearing model during the sub-adult stage benefits the overall welfare of adult captive giant pandas within their current captive environment. Wild giant pandas are inherently solitary creatures, however, the ex-situ conservation efforts significantly alter the living circumstances of their captive counterparts. Following the breeding period, giant pandas in captivity may be maintained in social groups. Currently, there is a lack of research on the effects of group housing on the physiology, behavior, and gut microbiota of captive giant pandas. This study divided six captive giant pandas into two groups following the breeding period. By comparing the behavior, physiology, and microorganisms of the two groups, we aim to investigate the behavioral responses and physiological adaptation mechanisms exhibited by captive giant pandas in a "group living" state. Our findings indicate that sub-adult giant pandas housed in group settings exhibit a significantly longer duration of playing behavior (including interactive and non-interactive play) compared to their counterparts housed separately (p < 0.001) while also demonstrating a significantly lower duration of stereotyped behavior than their separately housed counterparts. Additionally, an analysis of urine cortisol and heart rate variability between the two groups revealed no significant differences. Simultaneously, the group housing strategy markedly elevated the β diversity of gut microbiota in sub-adult giant pandas. In conclusion, the group-rearing model during the sub-adult stage has been shown to significantly alter the behavioral patterns of captive giant pandas. In conclusion, within the present captive setting, the group-rearing approach during the sub-adult stage proved to be less distressing for adult captive giant pandas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immune evasion of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) facilitates intracellular bacterial growth. The mechanisms of immune evasion, however, are still not fully understood. In this study, we reveal that tristetraprolin (TTP), one of the best characterized RNA‐binding proteins controlling the stability of targeted mRNAs, mediates innate immune evasion of mycobacteria. We found that TTP knockout mice displayed reduced bacterial burden in the early stage after Mtb aerosol challenge. Macrophages deficient in TTP also showed an inhibition in intracellular mycobacterial growth. Live mycobacteria induced TTP protein expression in macrophages, which was blocked by the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. Rapamycin and AZD8055 specifically blocked 4EBP1 phosphorylation in infected macrophages and suppressed intracellular BCG growth. Rapamycin promoted TTP protein degradation through the ubiquitination pathway, whereas the proteasome inhibitor MG‐132 blocked rapamycin function and thus stabilized TTP protein. TTP induction suppressed the expression of iNOS/TNF‐α/IL‐12/IL‐23, and weakened protective immune responses in macrophages, whereas rapamycin enhanced the bactericidal effects through TTP inhibition. Moreover, blocking TTP binding increased the expression of TNF‐α and iNOS and suppressed intracellular mycobacterial growth. Overall, our study reveals a novel role for RNA‐binding protein TTP in Mtb immune evasion mechanisms and provides a potential target for host‐directed therapy against tuberculosis (TB). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As we know, the periodic functions are symmetric within a cycle time, and it is meaningful to generalize the periodicity into more general cases, such as almost periodicity or almost automorphy. In this work, we introduce the concept of Poisson S γ 2 -pseudo almost automorphy (or Poisson generalized Stepanov-like pseudo almost automorphy) for stochastic processes, which are almost-symmetric within a suitable period, and establish some useful properties of such stochastic processes, including the composition theorems. In addition, we apply a Krasnoselskii–Schaefer type fixed point theorem to obtain the existence of pseudo almost automorphic solutions in distribution for some semilinear stochastic differential equations driven by Lévy noise under S γ 2 -pseudo almost automorphic coefficients. In addition, then we establish optimal control results on the bounded interval. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate the theoretical results obtained in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) has long attracted the attention of conservationists as a flagship and umbrella species. Collecting attribute information on the age structure and sex ratio of the wild giant panda populations can support our understanding of their status and the design of more effective conservation schemes. In view of the shortcomings of traditional methods, which cannot automatically recognize the age and sex of giant pandas, we designed a SENet (Squeeze-and-Excitation Network)-based model to automatically recognize the attributes of giant pandas from their vocalizations. We focused on the recognition of age groups (juvenile and adult) and sex of giant pandas. The reason for using vocalizations is that among the modes of animal communication, sound has the advantages of long transmission distances, strong penetrating power, and rich information. We collected a dataset of calls from 28 captive giant panda individuals, with a total duration of 1298.02 s of recordings. We used MFCC (Mel-frequency Cepstral Coefficients), which is an acoustic feature, as inputs for the SENet. Considering that small datasets are not conducive to convergence in the training process, we increased the size of the training data via SpecAugment. In addition, we used focal loss to reduce the impact of data imbalance. Our results showed that the F1 scores of our method for recognizing age group and sex reached 96.46% ± 5.71% and 85.85% ± 7.99%, respectively, demonstrating that the automatic recognition of giant panda attributes based on their vocalizations is feasible and effective. This more convenient, quick, timesaving, and laborsaving attribute recognition method can be used in the investigation of wild giant pandas in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is a rare and endangered species to be preserved in China. The giant panda has a low reproductive capacity, and due to the scarcity of samples, studies on testes from giant panda are very limited, with little knowledge about the process of spermatogenesis in this species. Aims: To establish the gene expression profiles in cells from the testis of a giant panda. Methods: The 10× Genomics single-cell RNA-sequencing platform was applied to cells from the testis of an adult giant panda. Key results: We identified eight testicular cell types including six somatic and two germ cell types from our single-cell RNA-sequencing datasets. We also identified the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in each cell type, and performed functional enrichment analysis for the identified testicular cell types. Furthermore, by immunohistochemistry we explored the protein localisation patterns of several marker genes in testes from giant panda. Conclusions: Our study has for the first time established the gene expression profiles in cells from the testis of a giant panda. Implications: Our data provide a reference catalogue for spermatogenesis and testicular cells in the giant panda, laying the foundation for future breeding and preservation of this endangered species. The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is a rare and endangered species to be preserved in China. Here, we employed the 10× Genomics single-cell RNA-sequencing platform to establish the gene expression profiles in cells from the testis of an adult giant panda. Hence, this study provides a reference catalogue for spermatogenesis and testicular cells in giant panda, laying the foundation for future research on breeding, preservation, diagnosis, and treatment of reproductive disorders in this endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the optimal software release policies (SRP) which minimize the software cost and satisfy the software-reliability requirement based on the hyper-geometric distribution software-reliability growth model (HGDM). Review of HGDM; Cost-optimal and cost-reliability-optimal SRP based on HGDM; Numerical example of the investigation.

Investigates the two optimal resource-allocation (OPT/RA) problems in software module testing using the hyper-geometric distribution software reliability growth model (HGDM). Two OPT/RA problems; Analysis on HGDM; Discussion of HGDM with logistic learning factor (LLF) on investigating the two OPT/RA problems; Two other resource allocation methods; Numerical examples and results of the investigation.

The prognostic value of myosteatosis has been widely investigated in lung cancer, yet conclusions remain controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to illuminate this issue. Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science Core Collection online databases were systematically searched from inception to 24 September 2021. Newcastle–Ottawa Scale tool was applied to evaluate the quality of included studies. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were used to examine prognostic value of myosteatosis. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were conducted to assess heterogeneity and stability of results. A total of 484 articles were screened from which 9 eligible studies involving 1667 patients were enrolled in this meta-analysis. Lung cancer patients with myosteatosis had significantly worse OS than patients without myosteatosis (HR 1.10, 95% CI 1.05–1.16, P < 0.001), both in six multivariate analysis (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.16–1.85, P = 0.001) and in three univariate analysis (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.03–1.14, P = 0.003). Pooled data from five studies using multivariate survival analysis also showed that patients with myosteatosis had a statistically significant unfavorable PFS (HR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.00–1.62, P = 0.049). Sensitivity analysis showed the result for OS was stable. But for PFS, the result was not robust. Myosteatosis might serve as an independent indicator of unfavorable survival outcomes for OS and PFS in lung cancer patients. Further studies are needed to confirm our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is a distinctive mammal known for its reliance on a diet primarily consisting of bamboo. The gut microbiota and overall health of animals are strongly influenced by diets and environments. Therefore, conducting research to explore the taxonomical and functional variances within the gut microbiota of red pandas exposed to various dietary and environmental conditions could shed light on the dynamic complexities of their microbial communities. In this study, normal fecal samples were obtained from red pandas residing in captive and semi‐free environments under different dietary regimes and used for metabolomic, 16S rRNA, and metagenomic sequencing analysis, with the pandas classified into four distinct cohorts according to diet and environment. In addition, metagenomic sequencing was conducted on mucus fecal samples to elucidate potential etiological agents of disease. Results revealed an increased risk of gastrointestinal diseases in red pandas consuming bamboo shoots due to the heightened presence of pathogenic bacteria, although an increased presence of microbiota‐derived tryptophan metabolites appeared to facilitate intestinal balance. The red pandas fed bamboo leaves also exhibited a decrease in gut microbial diversity, which may be attributed to the antibacterial flavonoids and lower protein levels in leaves. Notably, red pandas residing in semi‐free environments demonstrated an enriched gut microbial diversity. Moreover, the occurrence of mucus secretion may be due to an increased presence of species associated with diarrhea and a reduced level of microbiota‐derived tryptophan metabolites. In summary, our findings substantiate the influential role of diet and environment in modulating the gut microbiota of red pandas, offering potential implications for improved captive breeding practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Red pandas have evolved to become specialized bamboo eaters within Carnivora. Probably due to the difficulty in obtaining materials, reports on genes related to digestion and metabolism at expression and regulation levels in red pandas are rare. Red pandas and carnivorous mammal ferrets have a close phylogenetic relationship. They both consume highly nutritious milk during the suckling period, but consume low-energy bamboo and high-energy meat during the adult period, respectively. In order to explore the molecular mechanisms of dietary changes and nutrient utilization in red pandas, we discussed (1) the differences in expression changes of some genes related to digestion and metabolism in the stomach of these two species after food changes, as well as the expression adaptation of genes related to digestion and metabolism in both species during different feeding periods, and (2) the regulatory effects of lncRNAs and miRNAs on adaptive expressions of genes related to digestion and metabolism in both species from suckling to adult. Red pandas evolved from carnivores to herbivores and are unique within Carnivora. Red pandas and carnivorous mammals consume milk during the suckling period, while they consume bamboo and meat during the adult period, respectively. Red pandas and carnivorous mammal ferrets have a close phylogenetic relationship. To further investigate the molecular mechanisms of dietary changes and nutrient utilization in red pandas from suckling to adult, comparative analysis of the whole transcriptome was performed on stomach tissues from red pandas and ferrets during the suckling and adult periods. The main results are as follows: (1) we identified ncRNAs for the first time in stomach tissues of both species, and found significant expression changes of 109 lncRNAs and 106 miRNAs in red pandas and 756 lncRNAs and 109 miRNAs in ferrets between the two periods; (2) up-regulated genes related to amino acid transport regulated by lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks may efficiently utilize limited bamboo amino acids in adult red pandas, while up-regulated genes related to amino acid degradation regulated by lncRNAs may maintain the balance of amino acid metabolism due to larger daily intakes in adult ferrets; and (3) some up-regulated genes related to lipid digestion may contribute to the utilization of rich nutrients in milk for the rapid growth and development of suckling red pandas, while up-regulated genes associated with linoleic acid metabolism regulated by lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks may promote cholesterol decomposition to reduce health risks for carnivorous adult ferrets. Collectively, our study offers evidence of gene expression adaptation and ncRNA regulation in response to specific dietary changes and nutrient utilization in red pandas during suckling and adult periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycobacterium avium‐intracellulare complex (MAC) is the most common cause of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease in humans. We report a case of esophageal MAC disease in a patient who had allogeneic bone marrow transplant for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Although pulmonary MAC in immunocompromised host is not uncommon, there are only a few cases of NTM‐associated esophageal mass reported. Our report and literature review highlight the importance of considering MAC in the differential diagnosis of dysphagia or odynophagia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reintroduction programs seek to restore degraded populations and reverse biodiversity loss. To examine the hypothesis that gut symbionts could be used as an indicator of reintroduction success, we performed intensive metagenomic monitoring over 10 years to characterize the ecological succession and adaptive evolution of the gut symbionts of captive giant pandas reintroduced to the wild. We collected 63 fecal samples from 3 reintroduced individuals and 22 from 9 wild individuals and used 96 publicly available samples from another 3 captive individuals. By microbial composition analysis, we identified 3 community clusters of the gut microbiome (here termed enterotypes) with interenterotype succession that was closely related to the reintroduction process. Each of the 3 enterotypes was identified based on significant variation in the levels of 1 of 3 genera: Clostridium, Pseudomonas, and Escherichia. The enterotype of captive pandas was Escherichia. This enterotype was gradually replaced by the Clostridium enterotype during the wild‐training process, which in turn was replaced by the Pseudomonas enterotype that resembled the enterotype of wild pandas, an indicator of conversion to wildness and a successful reintroduction. We also isolated 1 strain of Pseudomonas protegens from the wild enterotype, a previously reported free‐living microbe, and found that its within‐host evolution contributed to host dietary adaptation in the wild. Monitoring gut microbial structure provides a novel, noninvasive tool that can be used as an indicator of successful reintroduction of a captive individual to the wild. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) are difficult to conceive and prone to abortion, humans have turned to artificial captive breeding to increase their population. Therefore, it is crucial for their reproduction to analyze their pregnancy status accurately and promptly in artificial captive breeding. To determine whether a giant panda is pregnant, with the current methods, experts must keep a close eye on them and frequently collect their urine or blood, which requires significant resources with a high misdiagnosis rate, and will adversely affect giant pandas' daily lives. Consequently, it is essential to rapidly advance the development of automated, precise methods that will not disrupt the pandas' lives to analyze giant pandas' behaviors and determine whether or not they are pregnant. In this paper, we propose an end-to-end intelligent system for predicting the pregnancy status of giant pandas and their Expected Date of Delivery (EDD). We first introduce expert knowledge to machine learning methods to solve this problem, which can significantly improve the accuracy of prediction. Experimental results show that this system achieves an accuracy of 91.5% for the pregnancy diagnosis and 0.579 days of mean average error for EDD prediction when the observation period is 5 days. Our automated system significantly reduces the need for human intervention, thus minimizing disruptions to the pandas' daily lives. It has the potential to contribute to the health and genetic diversity of the giant pandas, as well as aid in the panda's artificial reproduction and population growth. • An intelligent system automatically analyzes the pregnancy status of giant pandas. • Hierarchical behavior definition for acquiring comprehensive behavior description. • Effective pregnancy analysis model based on efficient channel attention mechanism. • Scalable sliding window mechanism to deal with insufficient data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has the most numerous Danxia and Karst landscapes, which serve as special terrestrial islands harboring ample endemic species, though how did these endemic species spread among those isolated sites is still an unresolved issue. To address this question, we explored the phylogeographical structure and demographic history of Firmiana danxiaensis, a tree species endemic to Danxia and Karst landscapes. We collected 295 samples (28 populations) of F. danxiaensis. Plastid genomes were assembled for 25 representative samples. Sanger sequencing of four plastid regions and restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequencing were performed on the 28 populations. The phylogenetic tree constructed from plastid genomes and restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing (RAD‐seq) data supported that F. danxiaensis originated from Mount Danxia and Nanxiong Basin, spread to Karst landscapes near Yingde City, and then back to Danxia Mountain and the Nanxiong Basin. In the Nanxiong Basin, the latter arrivals captured the plastid of the former. Population analyses revealed strong population structure among and within Danxia and Karst landscapes, possibly due to low seed and pollen dispersal abilities of the species. The demographic and ecological niche modeling approaches suggested that F. danxiaensis have widely occurred in the southeast of China during the last glacial period, and later retreated to the cliffs of Danxia and Karst landscapes due to temperature rising and competition failure. The declining of the effective population size of the species throughout the postglacial period suggested that global warming, agriculture, and industrial civilizations could have affected the survival of this species, and more measures should be taken to conserve these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An organism's fitness is tied closely to its ability to obtain food. However, many foods are nutritionally suboptimal on their own, forcing an individual to develop a feeding strategy that actively manages both type and amount of food consumed. Animals in captivity are additionally limited to human provisioned diets, which may be nutritionally inadequate and negatively affect behavior and health. We studied the nutritional intake of captive golden snub-nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana) at two locations in China (132 days of continuous, sunrise to sunset focal samples of 7 individuals at each site) and used the Geometric Framework for nutrition to identify their feeding strategy and evaluate diet variation across sites, seasons, and age-sex classes. Captive golden snub-nosed monkeys had a mean nutrient intake of 75% carbohydrates (15% neutral detergent fiber, 60% total nonstructural carbohydrates), 12% fat, and 13% protein (by energy) that differed by location and season owing to differences in the type and amount of food items offered and consumed. Intake at one location differed from that of wild golden snub-nosed monkeys, suggesting that the captive diet was inadequate. These results highlight the importance of developing nutritionally adequate diets for captive animals based on an understanding of their nutritional requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In captive giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), both urinary estrogen and progesterone levels have been dynamically measured and routinely involved in the assisted reproduction. Yet the genetic contribution to phenotypic variability on these reproductive hormone levels remains largely unknown, which may be helpful for understanding the influence of mating system on reproduction. In this study, we used the longitudinal measures of urinary estrogen and progesterone levels, which were collected on 59 female giant pandas from 2007 to 2021, for estimating the heritability and genetic correlations of 3 estrus-related indicators, including estrus length (EL), estrogen concentration (EC), and progesterone concentration (Pg). The genetic relationship matrix was derived from pedigree records, and variance components were estimated by a three-trait animal model. Our results revealed that EC had the highest heritability (± SE) of 0.47 ± 0.08, which was followed by Pg of 0.38 ± 0.10 and EL of 0.19 ± 0.08. Weak positive genetic correlations (± SE) were observed between EL and EC (0.47 ± 0.32), and between EC and Pg (0.31 ± 0.26). To our best knowledge, this is the first study to estimate heritability and genetic correlation for estrus-related indicators in captive giant pandas, which could be taken into consideration to optimize the reproduction management of this vulnerable species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Aeromonas veronii, an important aquatic bacterium, has been known to infect a variety of animals worldwide. However, there have been no reports of A. veronii infection in giant pandas. Here, we found that strain VGP was resistant to six antibiotics, carries a large number of resistance genes and virulence genes, and has strong pathogenicity in mice. These results suggest that infection with strain VGP could be one of the leading causes of death for this giant panda cub. Our study presents the first evidence that giant pandas could be infected by A. veronii. The objective of this study was to understand biological characteristics of one bacteria strain named as VPG which was isolated from multiple organs of a dead captive giant panda cub. Here, we use biochemical tests, 16S rRNA and gyrB genes for bacterial identification, the disk diffusion method for antibiotic resistance phenotype, smart chip real-time PCR for the antibiotic resistance genotype, multiplex PCR for determination of virulence genes, and the acute toxicity test in mice for testing the pathogenicity of isolates. The isolate was identified as A. veronii strain based on the biochemical properties and genetic analysis. We found that the strain carried 31 antibiotic resistance genes, revealed antimicrobial resistance phenotypically to several antibiotics including penicillin, ampicillin, oxacillin, amoxicillin, imipenem, and vancomycin, and carried virulence genes including aer, act, lip, exu, ser, luxs, and tapA. The main pathological changes in giant panda were congestion, necrotic lesions and a large number of bacteria in multiple organs. In addition, the LD50 in Kunming mice infected with strain VGP was 5.14 × 107 CFU/mL by intraperitoneal injection. Infection with strain VGP led to considerable histological lesions such as hemorrhage of internal organs, necrosis of lymphocytes and neurons in Kunming mice. Taken together, these results suggest that infection with strain VGP would be an important causes of death in this giant panda cub. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dwarf bamboo overabundance simplified vegetation structure and caused giant panda habitat degradation. • Soil organic carbon, N and P stocks decreased with increasing degradation intensity. • Dwarf bamboo overabundance initiated a decrease in soil organic carbon, N and P stocks by influencing the litter quality. Although forest degradation caused by dwarf bamboo overabundance has a significant effect on the survival of wild giant pandas, the degradation process and its impact on soil C, N and P stocks remain unclear. By investigating the vegetation structure and physicochemical analysis of litter and soil, we explored the changes in soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), available nitrogen (AN), total phosphorus (TP) and available phosphorus (AP) stocks and the driving forces at three degradation levels triggered by dwarf bamboo overabundance in an important giant panda habitat—the subalpine coniferous forest. Dwarf bamboo overabundance following forest logging prevented tree regeneration, resulting in simplified a vegetation structure; even after 23 years of natural recovery, the clear-cut forestlands remained in the shrub stage, and the tree density and basal area were only 1.6% and 38%, respectively, of those in primary subalpine coniferous forest. With increasing degradation intensity, the litter stock and litter quality showed a decreasing trend, as did the SOC, N and P stocks in the litter layer and topsoil. The vegetation structure and litter quality together explained more than 90% of the variance in the C, N and P stocks (SOC: 97.3%, TN soil : 93.5%, AN soil : 96.2%, TP soil : 97.2% and AP soil : 97.0%), and litter quality had greater explanatory power than the vegetation structure. The SEM analysis results showed that the increase in dwarf bamboo density caused by the reduction in tree basal area affected the litter C/N and C/P ratios, and ultimately reduced the SOC, N soil and P soil stocks. This study highlights that dwarf bamboo overabundance not only causes forest degradation but also reduces the carbon sequestration function of giant panda habitat, leading to the loss of soil N and P. We suggest that reducing bamboo abundance can promote the recovery of the soil carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus stocks in degraded giant panda habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective The roles of bile acid microaspiration and bile acid-activated farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remain unclear. We hypothesized that bile acids activate alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) and lung fibroblasts, which may be regulated by FXR activation. Methods Human AECs and normal or IPF-derived lung fibroblast cells were incubated with the three major bile acids: lithocholic acid (LCA), deoxycholic acid (DCA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). The AECs injury indices, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and lung fibroblast activation were evaluated. FXR expression in IPF lungs and the roles of FXR and FXR-independent pathways in bile acid-induced profibrotic effects were also investigated. Results LCA, DCA and CDCA reduced cell viability and increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in A549 cells. They all induced EMT, as shown by enhanced α-SMA and vimentin and decreased E-cadherin levels. LCA directly induced differentiation of lung fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. All three bile acids promoted cellular migration but not proliferation of lung fibroblasts. FXR expression was upregulated in IPF lungs, and inhibition of FXR restrained the bile acid-induced EMT and lung fibroblast activation. Differentiation and proliferation were enhanced in lung fibroblasts exposed to conditioned medium from bile acid-stimulated A549 cells, which contained increased levels of profibrotic factors. TGF-β/Smad3 signaling was also involved in the bile acid-induced EMT and lung fibroblast differentiation. Conclusion Bile acid microaspiration may promote the development of pulmonary fibrosis by inducing activation of AECs and lung fibroblasts via FXR-dependent and independent pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]