Specific Influence Research Articles

Robustness of 18F-FDG PET Radiomic Features in Lung Cancer: Impact of Advanced Reconstruction Algorithm.

18F-FDG PET radiomics is emerging as a promising tool to identify imaging biomarkers for quantifying intratumor heterogeneity in lung cancer. However, the robustness of PET radiomic features (RFs) is influenced by factors such as image reconstruction algorithms, tumor segmentation, and discretization. Although the impact of these factors on RFs has been explored, the specific influence of the advanced block sequential regularized expectation maximization (BSREM) reconstruction algorithm remains unclear. This study investigated the potential variations in PET RFs associated with different factors when using BSREM. Methods: Retrospective data of 18F-FDG PET from 120 lung cancer patients were reconstructed twice using advanced BSREM and conventional ordered-subset expectation maximization methods. For each reconstruction set, 3 tumor segmentations were performed, including manual, 40% threshold, and Nestle methods. Two discretization methods using absolute and relative settings were applied for each dataset before RF extraction. Stable and robust RFs were assessed by the coefficient of variance and intraclass correlation coefficient, respectively. Results: High instability was exhibited by 19%, 33%, and 36% of RFs, with a coefficient of variation of more than 20% for reconstruction, segmentation, and discretization, respectively. Conversely, 60%, 19%, and 35% of RFs demonstrated robustness against these factors, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of more than 0.90. The comparative evaluation revealed significantly greater robustness for most RF subtypes in BSREM than in ordered-subset expectation maximization under varying segmentation and discretization conditions (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The stability and robustness of PET RFs are enhanced if BSREM is applied rather than the conventional method. Study results suggest that the advanced reconstruction method could offer potential benefits in providing consistent PET-based radiomic analysis for improving diagnostic and prognostic value.

Impacts of sugarcane bagasse-derived biochar and apatite on heavy metal speciation in incubated heavy metal-contaminated soil.

Heavy metal contamination in soils poses significant environmental and health risks, necessitating effective remediation strategies. This study investigates the time-dependent effects of sugarcane bagasse-derived biochar and apatite as soil amendments on the chemical speciation of heavy metals in polluted soil. Despite their known efficacy, the specific influence of these amendments on the distribution of heavy metal chemical fractions over time remains underexplored. Incubated experiments were conducted over one month using soil samples spiked with Biochar and apatite. Pb- and Zn-contaminated soils were incubated with biochar and apatite at varying ratios: biochar at 5% and 10%, and biochar/apatite mixtures at 2.5:2.5% and 5:5% ratios (in mass). Changes in heavy metal speciation were analyzed using Tessier's sequential extraction procedure. Results demonstrate significant shifts in the distribution of heavy metals across soil phases, suggesting potential reductions in bioavailability and environmental mobility. Incubation with varying application rates of biochar and apatite revealed diverse effects on Pb and Zn chemical fractions. Amendments reduced the exchangeable fraction of Pb and Zn by up to 38.5% and 47.7%, respectively, while increasing their more stable F4 and F5 fractions. Proposed mechanisms likely include cation exchange (swapping of ions between the soil and amendments), precipitation (formation of solid compounds), complexation with functional groups/minerals, and physical adsorption (attachment of metal ions) on biochar surfaces The efficacy of biochar and apatite underscores their promise for remediating Pb and Zn in contaminated soils, though variability in efficacy across different soil types warrants further investigation. These findings indicate the potential for practical applications in large-scale soil remediation projects. Further research is needed to assess the persistence of heavy metal stabilization over time and under varying environmental conditions.

The Effect of Position Specifications, Tenure, and Job Placement on Work Productivity in District Government X

There are several things that are considered to have an influence on work productivity in the district government, including job specifications, work period and job placement. However, this has not been explained in more depth. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to conduct research on the influence of job specifications, work period, and job placement on work productivity in the X district government. The purpose of this study is to determine whether or not there is an influence of job specifications, work period, and job placement on work productivity in the X district government. The research method used is qualitative with data collection techniques through observation, interviews and documentation, where interviews were conducted with 10 employees in the X district government. The research data that has been collected will be analyzed in depth to determine the results of the study. The results of the study indicate that clear job specifications, work period and appropriate job placement according to employee abilities can increase employee work productivity in the X district government positively and significantly. With this, the government should carry out clear job specifications considering the work period and employee abilities in carrying out work placement so that work productivity increases and organizational goals can be achieved effectively and efficiently.

Notch and Hedgehog Signaling Unveiled: Crosstalk, Roles, and Breakthroughs in Cancer Stem Cell Research

The development of therapies that target cancer stem cells (CSCs) and bulk tumors is both crucial and urgent. Several signaling pathways, like Notch and Hedgehog (Hh), have been strongly associated with CSC stemness maintenance and metastasis. However, the extensive crosstalk present between these two signaling networks complicates the development of long-term therapies that also minimize adverse effects on healthy tissues and are not overcome by therapy resistance from CSCs. The present work aims to overview the roles of Notch and Hh in cancer outburst and the intersection of the two pathways with one another, as well as with other networks, such as Wnt/β-catenin, TGF, and JAK/STAT3, and to explore the shaping of the tumor microenvironment (TME) with specific influence on CSC development and maintenance.

Governance for a greener Europe: audit committee and carbon emission

Purpose This study aims to examine the impact of Audit Committee (AC) characteristics on carbon disclosures and performance among companies listed in the STOXX Europe 600 index. Design/methodology/approach The sample consists of companies listed in the STOXX Europe 600 index over a 11-year period (2012–2022). The study uses panel data regression methods and uses the two-step system generalized method of moments to control for endogeneity. Findings The results indicate that AC size, independence and financial expertise positively influence carbon disclosure, highlighting the significance of these characteristics in promoting transparency and accountability in reporting carbon emissions. Additionally, these attributes are significantly associated with improved carbon performance, suggesting their potential role in advancing environmental sustainability. Practical implications The study provides practical insights for policymakers and regulatory bodies aiming to enhance carbon-related practices through improved corporate governance (CG) structures. By emphasizing the importance of specific AC characteristics, the findings suggest pathways for enhancing the quality of carbon disclosures and performance. Originality/value Despite extensive attention on CG in promoting sustainability, the specific influence of AC characteristics on carbon disclosures and performance remains underexplored. This study addresses this significant literature gap and, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the first to link AC characteristics with both carbon disclosure and performance. It enriches the current body of knowledge in agency theory and provides critical insights for developing CG and regulatory policies that enhance the quality of carbon disclosures.

Hemodynamic analysis on the umbilical cord with different coiling and nuchal cord conditions: A computational model-based study

The umbilical cord is a vital pathway for the fetus, which can bring oxygen/nutrition and take away waste products to maintain normal growth. Clinical studies found that abnormal coiling and nuchal cord conditions of the umbilical cord may be associated with fetal growth restriction. Although the hemodynamic environment due to the abnormal morphology is suspected to account for the abnormal growth, the specific influence of the abnormal coiling and nuchal cord conditions on the hemodynamics remains not fully understood. In this context, this study aims to investigate the hemodynamic effects of the variation of umbilical coiling index (UCI) and nuchal cord conditions in order to better address the issue. For this purpose, the computational model of a normal umbilical cord was constructed based on the ultrasound-measured geometrical parameters and blood flow velocity. On this basis, a series of computational models with lower/higher UCI and with/without nuchal cord were then constructed, which were used in the hemodynamic analysis and comparison. Results showed that (1) both abnormal UCI (lower and higher) and nuchal cord conditions significantly altered the hemodynamic environment; (2) the variations of UCI resulted in inverse tendencies between oscillatory shear index (OSI) and relative residence time (RRT); and (3) nuchal cord had minor impact on most hemodynamic variables, such as wall shear stress and RRT, but increased the area of higher OSI. These findings clarified the influence of different coiling and nuchal cord conditions on the hemodynamic environment of the umbilical cord, which would provide more insights into fetal growth restriction.

Contribution of rat insular cortex to stimulus-guided action.

Anticipating rewards is fundamental for decision-making. Animals often use cues to assess reward availability and to make predictions about future outcomes. The gustatory region of the insular cortex (IC), the so-called gustatory cortex, has a well-established role in the representation of predictive cues, such that IC neurons encode both a general form of outcome expectation as well as anticipatory outcome-specific knowledge. Here, we used Pavlovian-instrumental transfer (PIT) in male rats to assess if the IC is also required for predictive cues to exert both a general and specific influence over instrumental actions. Chemogenetic inhibition of IC impaired the ability of a reward-predictive stimulus to energize instrumental responding for reward. This deficit in general transfer was evident whether the same or different outcomes were used in the Pavlovian and instrumental conditioning phases. We observed a similar deficit in specific PIT, such that rats with IC inhibition failed to use a reward-predictive stimulus to guide choice toward actions that deliver the same food reward. Finally, we show that rats with IC inhibition also fail to show outcome-selective reinstatement. Together, these data suggest a crucial role for IC in the representation of appetitive outcomes, and particularly in using this representation to guide instrumental action.Significance statement Animals frequently use cues to infer the availability of rewards and to make predictions about future outcomes. The influence of these predictive cues on behaviour can be studied using Pavlovian-instrumental transfer (PIT), in which Pavlovian outcome expectancies can energise (general PIT) or selectively guide (specific PIT) instrumental actions. In the current study, we show that chemogenetic inhibition of the gustatory region of insular cortex (IC) attenuates both general and specific transfer, as well as the selectivity of outcome-induced reinstatement. These results demonstrate a critical role for the IC in the representation of appetitive outcomes and significantly contribute to a broader understanding of the cortical bases of PIT.

Stability of a delayed prey–predator model with fear, stochastic effects and Beddington–DeAngelis functional response

In view of the importance of predator-dependent functional response and fear of prey induced by powerful predators, we construct a delayed prey–predator model with fear and Beddington–DeAngelis functional response. The existence, uniqueness, and global asymptotic stability of equilibrium points are investigated and some criteria are established. Next, Hopf bifurcation analysis is executed, and the critical values of such bifurcation parameters as fear and delay for the determinate system are obtained. Then we extend it to a random environment and study the boundedness of expectation of solutions and the global asymptotic stability. Finally, the main findings are validated by numerical examples. It is worth noting that the specific influences of fear by predator, time delay, and white noise are explored numerically. Simulation figures intuitively exhibit that fear, delay, and white noise bring serious influences on the stability of the system. Fear from predator leads to a lower equilibrium state of prey and predator, and it can change the system stability from unstable to stable after exceeding a certain critical value. The time delay has a significant impact on the system stability by producing Hopf bifurcations accompanied by limit cycles, and even lead to multiple stabilities. Larger white noise can change the system stability from stable to unstable.

IL-1R1 and IL-18 Signals Regulate Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in an Aged Murine Model of Myelodysplastic Syndromes.

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are age-related diseases characterized by bone marrow (BM) dysfunction and an increased risk of developing acute leukemia. While there is growing evidence highlighting the crucial role of the BM microenvironment (BMME) in MDS, the specific influence of inflammation on BMME changes, as well as the potential benefits of targeting cytokines therapeutically, remain to be elucidated. We previously found interleukin-1 (IL-1) to be a driver of aging phenotypes of BMME and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). In the current study, BM samples from patients with MDS demonstrated upregulated levels of IL-1 family cytokines including IL-18. Utilizing highly purified primary BM-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), both interleukin-1b (IL-1b) and IL-18 were found to exert direct effects on MSCs, thus influencing their ability to support HSPCs as well as erythroid progenitors. This confirms the significant involvement of both these IL-1 family cytokines in regulating the BM niche. Furthermore, targeting IL-1 receptor type I (IL-1R1) mitigated these aging phenotypes in elderly mice. We subsequently employed an age-appropriate murine model of MDS by transplanting NUP98-HOXD13 transgenic mice (NHD13Tg) cells into aged wild-type mice. Treatment with inhibitors targeting interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4) and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) reversed the proliferation of dysfunctional MSCs and enhanced their functionality. Additionally, IRAK4 inhibition selectively suppressed MDS clonal cells while sparing non-MDS cells in the BM. These findings suggest that targeting IL-1 signaling holds promise for MDS treatment by addressing the underlying myeloid malignancy and restoring the altered BMME via BM-MSCs.

Integrating behavioral and neurophysiological insights: High trait anxiety enhances observational fear learning.

Observational fear learning delineates the process by which individuals learn about potential threats through observing others' reactions. Prior research indicates that individuals with high trait anxiety (HTA) manifest pronounced fear responses in direct fear learning scenarios. However, the specific influence of trait anxiety on observational fear learning remains insufficiently explored. This study aimed to fill this gap by examining 64 university students, divided equally between those with HTA and low trait anxiety (LTA), selected from an initial pool of 483 participants. Participants were subjected to observational fear learning tasks, and their behavioral responses, physiological reactions, and brain activations were recorded. Results demonstrated that HTA participants exhibited differentiated skin conductance responses to threat and safety stimuli during the observational fear acquisition phase, notwithstanding prior assurances against shock delivery. Furthermore, during the direct test phase, HTA participants reported significantly elevated fear and shock expectancy ratings for both types of stimuli, in contrast to their LTA counterparts. Neuroimaging data, derived via functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) revealed heightened medial prefrontal cortex activation in HTA participants when directly facing threats. This study systematically explores the influence of high trait anxiety on observational fear learning, uncovering that HTA individuals exhibit excessive fear responses. These findings highlight the critical role of trait anxiety as a significant risk factor in the development of anxiety disorders.

Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance of Thin Ceria and Phosphate Mono- and Multilayers Deposited on Technically Pure Al 1050.

Calcium phosphates are often used for biomedical applications. Hydroxyapatite, for example, has a wide range of applications because it mimics the mineral component of natural bone. Widespread interest in the catalytic properties of ceria is due to its use in automotive catalytic converters. Effect of electroless deposited on (non-anodized and anodized) Al 1050 with monolayer Ce2O3 + CeO2, consecutive deposited bilayer Ce2O3 + CeO2/Ca5(PO4)3OH or consecutive deposited bilayer Ce2O3 + CeO2/(AlPO4 + AlOOH + CePO4) systems on the indentation modulus (EIT) and hardness (HIT), as well as their corrosion-protective ability were investigated. For structural, chemical, electrochemical, and mechanical characterization of the investigated systems, the following methods were used: scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), polarization resistance (Rp), corrosion rate (CR) analysis, and nanoindentation. It was found that the HIT and EIT of the coatings deposited on an anodized aluminum substrate were much higher than those deposited on a non-anodized aluminum substrate. It established a specific influence of the morphology and chemical composition of formed conversion layers on HIT and EIT and improved the corrosion-protective effect of these layers. The obtained results are valuable since there is no data on the mechanical properties of such coatings in the literature to date.

The polycentric consumer in tourism: ethnocentrism and xenocentrism profiles’ interplay with authenticity in tourists’ destination choices

PurposeConsumer centrism’s perspectives serve as crucial determinants in decision-making processes, yet the burgeoning discourse on global marketing’s interplay with tourism scarcely addresses the nuanced interconnections between consumer dispositions toward global or local destinations, which assert a global preference bias in developing countries and their predilections for tourist destination selection. This study aims to elucidate the dynamics between ethnocentric and xenocentric dispositions and the selection of domestic tourist locales within developing countries, conditioned to perceived authentic experiences.Design/methodology/approachBased on a sample of 264 tourists, we employed structural equation modeling and mediation analysis to determine the direct and indirect interplay of consumer centrism and the mechanisms of authenticity for destination choice and latent class analysis to unveil consumer heterogeneous profiles and their implications.FindingsThe results suggest the existence of a polycentric consumer due to the strong preference for domestic destinations among ethnocentric consumers. While xenocentrism did not have a similar direct impact, its influence on local destination choice emerged through the mediating effect of perceived authenticity. This finding provides evidence for the assumption of a global preference bias in developing nations, even within tourism contexts. Additionally, we identified four distinct heterogeneous tourist profiles based on consumer inclinations toward global and local aspects, allowing for a detailed exploration of their specific influences on tourism destinations.Practical implicationsEffective tourism strategies in developing countries can boost the economy based on authenticity, creating experiences that consider the duality of tourist inclinations and promoting cultural preservation. Practical examples include cultural events, themed tours, personalized marketing, influencer partnerships, social media engagement and loyalty programs, all aimed at engaging diverse consumer groups and strengthening consumer connections toward the local and xenocentric dispositions.Originality/valueThe study advances our understanding by proposing a polycentric profile of consumer inclinations toward tourism in developing countries, driven by the perceived authenticity of destinations. This profile highlights the nuanced interplay between ethnocentric and xenocentric dispositions, illustrating how local and global preferences coexist and influence travel decisions. By emphasizing the role of authenticity, the study provides valuable insights into the factors shaping tourism behaviors in developing countries.

Relationships Between Student Peer Relationships, Time Management, Academic Performance and Dormitory Culture

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship among dormitory culture, college students' learning motivation, time management tendencies, and peer relationships, and to examine the impact of roommate interactions on students' academic motivation. By conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature and field research, this paper aims to elucidate the specific influence mechanisms of dormitory culture on students' learning attitudes and behavioral patterns, and to propose corresponding optimization strategies. This endeavor not only contributes to enriching and refining current educational theory but also offers a scientific rationale for the management and instructional practice in college dormitories. Furthermore, this study explores the associations between learning motivation, peer relationships, and academic performance. The research seeks to foster a healthier and more positive learning environment for college students, thereby enhancing their academic success and personal development.

Structure-property correlation in directionally solidified in-situ microwave cast of AA 2024 alloy irradiated at 2.45 GHz

The electric (E) and magnetic field (B) components of microwaves interact with materials at molecular level through various mechanisms, which demonstrate unique processing capabilities. In the present study, the AA 2024 alloy was melted using susceptor-assisted microwave heating, and the molten alloy was then directionally solidified in-situ at five solidification rates (50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 μm/s) under microwave irradiation. The effect of solidification rates on microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of directionally solidified AA 2024 alloy was investigated considering the specific influences of E and B components of microwaves. It was found that the eutectic phase gradient was formed along the solidification direction, becoming more pronounced at high solidification rates. Results showed a significant refinement in the microstructure with the increase in solidification rate. Hardness was observed to be higher at the bottom of the solidified alloy and varied along the solidification direction. The tensile properties of the AA 2024 alloy were found to increase with the increase in solidification rate up to ~125 μm/s. The alloy solidified at ~125µm/s exhibited the highest yield strength (314MPa), ultimate tensile strength (389MPa), and elongation (14.82%). The XRD analyses confirmed the presence of AlCu, Al2Cu, and Al2CuMg secondary phases. It was postulated that microwave interaction with the AA 2024 alloy during solidification played a significant role in tailoring the microstructure.

Specific Influence of the Mountain Landscape on the Level of Intelligence, Worldview and National Character of the Mountain Peoples in the South Caucasus

Today, against the backdrop of the rapidly growing globalization process, the study of ethnogenesis, lifestyle, mentality and worldview of the peoples of the world, as well as the establishment of their role in the development of human civilization has become extremely relevant. Scientific research conducted in recent years in the field of ethnography and ethnology have proven that among the many components involved in the formation and cultural development of the peoples of the world, the landscape of the area plays a special role and is of decisive importance. This article discusses this most important factor, which, using the example of the South Caucasus, predetermines the specificity of the highlanders in terms of their cultural and intellectual characteristics. In this regard, the article conducts relevant analyses that reveal the essence and significance of the natural and geographical components that form the specific appearance and way of thinking of the highlanders individually and the unique mentality of the ethnocultural community as a whole. In the conducted analyses, special attention is paid to those elements of the mountain environment that in various ways influence the psyche, views, passions, critical and creative thinking of the mountaineers. The article also reveals the subtle mechanism of the fusion of the soul of the mountaineer with his native nature and its components. The article also reveals the subtle mechanism of the fusion of the soul of the mountaineer with his native nature and its components. The identification of the unique features of the mountain peoples and the indication of the main reasons for this uniqueness are the leitmotif of this article.

RET Inhibitor SPP86 Triggers Apoptosis and Activates the DNA Damage Response Through the Suppression of Autophagy and the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway in Melanoma Cells.

Melanoma is a highly lethal form of skin cancer, and effective treatment remains a significant challenge. SPP86 is a novel potential therapeutic drug. Nonetheless, the specific influence of SPP86 on autophagy, particularly its mechanisms in the context of DNA damage and apoptosis in human melanoma cells, remains inadequately understood. Thus, this study aims to explore the effects of SPP86 on autophagy and to elucidate its association with cell proliferation, apoptosis, and DNA damage in melanoma cells. This study assessed the anti-tumor effects of SPP86 on cell viability, colony formation, apoptosis, and DNA damage in two melanoma cell lines, A375 and A2058. Concurrently, the underlying mechanisms, including the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and autophagy modulation, were also elucidated. The study demonstrated that SPP86 exerts anti-tumor effects in melanoma cells through multiple mechanisms: it induces apoptosis, causes DNA damage, inhibits cell proliferation, and suppresses the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Importantly, the inhibition of autophagy appears to be a critical component of SPP86' s mode of action, with the modulation of autophagic processes influencing the cytotoxicity against melanoma cells. These promising findings suggest that SPP86 is a potential drug candidate for the treatment of melanoma, warranting further research and development.

A Systematic Review Uncovering Modifiable Influences on Statin Adherence.

Statins are effective in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but adherence rates remain low globally. Understanding and addressing modifiable influences on adherence is key to improving outcomes. Existing reviews have methodological limitations, often failing to integrate qualitative and quantitative data or consider specific barriers to statin adherence. This systematic review aimed to identify modifiable barriers and facilitators to statin adherence using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). A comprehensive search of Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL was conducted, covering studies from January 1998 to November 2023. Data were coded to TDF domains and synthesized to identify specific influences on adherence. The nature of the evidence (qualitative or quantitative) was recorded for each influence, and variations among patient groups were noted. Seventy studies from 20 countries were included, with only one focused on ethnic minorities. The most commonly identified domains affecting adherence were "Beliefs about Consequences", "Knowledge", 'Environmental Context and Resources', and "Social Influences". Key factors included knowledge of disease, perceived disease threat, perceived benefits of statins, and patient-provider communication and trust. While side effects had inconsistent associations with adherence, forgetfulness was mainly addressed in quantitative studies, and social influences were highlighted in qualitative research. This review identified modifiable factors that could improve statin adherence. Future research should focus on addressing barriers faced by underrepresented groups to create more inclusive and effective interventions that enhance patient support and communication for better health outcomes.

Perceived Benefits and Barriers of Gardening Among Urban Older Adults: A Chinese Perspective

ABSTRACTExisting research exploring perspectives on gardening has primarily focused on Western populations. The present study, employing qualitative semi‐structured interviews with 21 urban‐dwelling Chinese older adults, investigated their perceived benefits and barriers to gardening. Reflexive thematic analysis of interview transcripts revealed that urban Chinese older adults perceive gardening as beneficial to their living environment, physical, psychological and social wellbeing, and as a source of home‐grown products. Perceived barriers include the lack of suitable gardening sites, insufficient time and support, difficulties in obtaining materials, the inseparability of gardening and living areas and low self‐efficacy in gardening. Cultural and socially specific influences are reflected in gardening practices, such as plant symbolism, household structures, and residential conditions, highlighting the importance of locally tailored strategies for future gardening programmes.

Predicting bond strength between steel reinforcement and concrete materials using machine learning with Bayesian optimization techniques

ABSTRACT Predicting the adhesive force between steel reinforcement and concrete is crucial as it influences stress distribution and the overall mechanical behavior of reinforced concrete. This study proposes a novel approach to enhance bond strength prediction using machine learning (ML) models optimized through Bayesian optimization (BO). A dataset comprising 401 beam tests with six key factors was used to train three distinct ML algorithms—Support Vector Regression (SVR), Random Forest (RF), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). The prediction models were first trained on the full dataset, with BO applied to fine-tune hyperparameters and improve accuracy. Among these models, the BO-XGBoost achieved the best performance, with an R2 of 0.74, MAE of 1.412 MPa, and RMSE of 1.516 MPa on the test set, and R2 = 0.80, MAE = 0.950 MPa, RMSE = 1.200 MPa on the training set. In addition, a simplified model was developed, incorporating only three critical variables—rebar thickness, reinforcement tensile strength, and concrete compressive capacity—to make the model more applicable in real-world engineering scenarios. To further interpret the model’s predictions, Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) were employed, revealing the specific influence of each variable on bond strength. This study demonstrates that the integration of ML with Bayesian optimization can significantly improve the accuracy of bond strength predictions, offering valuable insights for structural design optimization.

Influence of wildfire ash concentration on development, survival, and skin and gut microbiota of Rana dybowskii

Climate changes can increase wildfires and thereby endanger the habitats and survival of amphibians, but relevant research is limited. The gut and skin microbiota plays a critical role in amphibian protection. Wildfire ash may negatively impact amphibians, causing inflammation and microbiota disruption, but the impact on microbial communities is still uncertain. In this study, the impact of wildfire ash on the cutaneous and gut microbiota of Rana dybowskii was investigated over a 28-day period using five groups with aqueous extracts of ash. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the ash were analyzed. Body mass, development, survival rates, and microbiota diversity were tested. Significant differences in body mass, development rates, and survival rates among the treatment groups were observed. The survival and development rates at lower concentrations of ash (T0 and T0_75) were more similar to those under control conditions. Analyses of alpha and beta diversity revealed significant changes in microbiota composition across ash concentrations, with specific phyla and genera affected. Linear discriminant analysis effect analysis identified distinct microbiota associated with each treatment group, demonstrating the specific influence of ash concentrations on the microbiota composition of tadpoles. BugBase analysis revealed significant differences in the same phenotypes in gut microbiota, but not in nine skin microbiota phenotypes across groups. This research underscores the sensitivity of amphibian microbiota to environmental changes and provides insights into the ecological consequences of wildfires on aquatic ecosystems.