Symbiotic Research Articles

Dynamic microbiome diversity shaping the adaptation of sponge holobionts in coastal waters.

During long-term evolution, sponge holobionts, among the oldest symbiotic relationships between microbes and metazoans, developed two distinct phenotypes with high- and low-microbial abundance (HMA and LMA). Despite sporadic studies indicating that the characteristic microbial assemblages present in HMA and LMA sponges, the adaptation strategies of symbionts responding to environments are still unclear. This deficiency limits our understanding of the selection of symbionts and the ecological functions during the evolutionary history and the adaptative assessment of HMA and LMA sponges in variable environments. Here, we explored symbiotic communities with two distinct phenotypes in a 1-year dynamic environment and combined with the meta-analysis of 13 sponges. The different strategies of symbionts in adapting to the environment were basically drawn: microbes with LMA were more acclimated to environmental changes, forming relatively loose-connected communities, while HMA developed relatively tight-connected and more similar communities beyond the divergence of species and geographical location.

The Infrastructural Power of the Cayman Islands and the US State Power: A Financial Networks Centrality Approach

ABSTRACT This paper explores the symbiotic relationship between the Cayman Islands and the centrality of the United States (US) in global financial networks, using their connection as a test case for a broader theory of how infrastructural power of states is achieved through transnational and networked strategies. The legal and financial infrastructure of the Cayman Islands is extensively used by US financial institutions. This infrastructure supports the development of a significantly US-centric fund industry, facilitating substantial investments into US capital markets. Additionally, it serves as a global conduit, channelling funds from regions such as Asia and Latin America into US markets, streamlining the process by which foreign investors acquire US securities, and supporting the development of complex USD-denominated financial products. This dynamic enhances the depth, liquidity, and complexity of US capital markets, thereby reinforcing US centrality in global financial networks and bolstering its geopolitical power through financial diplomacy, economic sanctions, regulatory influence, and control over critical financial infrastructure. The relationship underscores the infrastructural power of the Cayman Islands, whose financial and legal framework is essential for sustaining and amplifying US centrality. Consequently, this paper aims to integrate the transnational perspective on infrastructural power within the International Political Economy (IPE) and Geopolitics literature, demonstrating how the Cayman Islands function as a multifaceted networked site that strengthens, projects, and sustains US state power on a global scale.

A Ship’s Maritime Critical Target Identification Method Based on Lightweight and Triple Attention Mechanisms

The ability to classify and recognize maritime targets based on visual images plays an important role in advancing ship intelligence and digitalization. The current target recognition algorithms for common maritime targets, such as buoys, reefs, other ships, and bridges of different colors, face challenges such as incomplete classification, low recognition accuracy, and a large number of model parameters. To address these issues, this paper proposes a novel maritime target recognition method called DTI-YOL (DualConv Triple Attention InnerEIOU-You Only Look Once). This method is based on a triple attention mechanism designed to enhance the model’s ability to classify and recognize buoys of different colors in the channel while also making the feature extraction network more lightweight. First, the lightweight double convolution kernel feature extraction layer is constructed using group convolution technology to replace the Conv structure of YOLOv9 (You Only Look Once Version 9), effectively reducing the number of parameters in the original model. Second, an improved three-branch structure is designed to capture cross-dimensional interactions of input image features. This structure forms a triple attention mechanism that accounts for the mutual dependencies between input channels and spatial positions, allowing for the calculation of attention weights for targets such as bridges, buoys, and other ships. Finally, InnerEIoU is used to replace CIoU to improve the loss function, thereby optimizing loss regression for targets with large scale differences. To verify the effectiveness of these algorithmic improvements, the DTI-YOLO algorithm was tested on a self-made dataset of 2300 ship navigation images. The experimental results show that the average accuracy of this method in identifying seven types of targets—including buoys, bridges, islands and reefs, container ships, bulk carriers, passenger ships, and other ships—reached 92.1%, with a 12% reduction in the number of parameters. This enhancement improves the model’s ability to recognize and distinguish different targets and buoy colors.

Dependence, power imbalance, and value gains in business process outsourcing

AbstractWe examine the impact of interdependencies in business process outsourcing (BPO) relationships on client and vendor firm values both in the short term and over a longer time horizon. Drawing from recent research incorporating the resource dependence theory, which appertains the interdependence to both mutual dependence and power imbalance in interfirm relationships, we posit the value proposition of BPO to be greater for mutually dependent engagements, and more so for the vendor than for the client. In addition, we posit the power imbalance in BPO relationships to be detrimental for clients and vendors, and thus, the value proposition of such BPO is expected to be lower for both. We empirically examine these issues through an event study of 285 publicly announced BPO engagements and find that mutually dependent BPO relationships, which were difficult to decouple, are value enhancing for both clients and vendors, and more so for vendors. In addition, although the power imbalances were expected to be detrimental to both, we find this power imbalance to negatively affect only the vendors but had a positive effect on clients.

Bioactive compounds enrichment in rabbit doe’s diet pre-and during pregnancy improves productive and reproductive performance and cost-effectiveness under hot climates

This study aimed to investigate the effect of diet supplementation with a symbiotic (SY), bee pollen (BP), honey bee (HB), date palm pollen (DPP) and their mixture (MIX) on female rabbit productive and reproductive performances under desert hot climates. Seventy-two Californian does of 5 months age and average body weight of 3250 ± 78.2 g were randomly allotted into six groups, each of 12 does. All does orally receive 3 ml distilled water for 10 days before mating and 28 days during pregnancy. Treatments were repeated for four consecutive parities. The first group served as control (C) given distilled water only, however the second, third, fourth and fifth groups were supplemented with 3 ml distilled water containing 0.2 ml SY, 200 mg DPP, 200 mg BP, 0.2 ml HB/doe per day, respectively. While, the sixth group does were given all previous ingredients (MIX). Sexual receptivity rate, fertility rate, kindling rate, and newborn traits were recorded. Also, maternal feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and digestibility coefficients of nutrients were recorded. Does in all groups were artificially inseminated with 0.5 ml of fresh heterospermic semen of 15 fertile bucks extended in Tris at 806–1006 sperm/ml. Treatment increased maternal body weight and daily gain with highest values (P < 0.05) in BP, SY, and MIX does. All treatments enhanced feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared with control. Number services per conception decreased (P < 0.01), while litter size and weight and survival at birth and weaning increased (P < 0.01) in treated than control does. Treated does produced more milk than control. Digestibility coefficients of all nutrients were improved (P < 0.01) in treated does. In conclusion, supporting rabbit does pre- and during pregnancy with diets supplemented with a mixture of honey bee, date palm pollen, bee pollen, and synbiotic improves the productive and reproductive performances of rabbit does and their offspring.

Pushing the Boundaries of Architectural and Engineering Education

This study investigates the impact of an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to architecture and engineering education through a case study analysis based on a Solar Decathlon studio conducted in Turkey. The studio, which competed in the Solar Decathlon Design Challenge 2024, engaged architecture and engineering students, academics, and professionals in collaboration with design and industry partners to repurpose an abandoned school site. The study uses a hermeneutic methodology to explore the lived experiences of team participants and assess the outcomes, benefits, and challenges of the interdisciplinary and collaborative studio experience in developing a professional horizon and design knowledge and skills to address contemporary issues. Through semi-structured interviews, surveys, and thematic analysis, the study sheds light on the symbiotic relationship between academia, industry, civil society, and state departments in architectural and engineering education. This research contributes to understanding the potential of interdisciplinary design education in addressing the 21st-century problems in the built environment.

Embracing Christian Values: Positive Relationships and Academic Achievement in Higher Education

&lt;p class="abstracttextDILIGENTIA"&gt;This literature review and analysis intricately examines the dynamic interplay between educators and students within the realm of higher education, with a keen focus on the spiritual dimensions elucidated by Christian principles and biblical wisdom. Rooted in the fundamental belief that education embodies a sacred journey, this study delves deep into the profound impact of positive relationships on both academic achievements and spiritual maturation. By establishing meaningful connections between contemporary educational practices and timeless biblical teachings, the research sheds light on how Christian virtues, such as love, compassion, and empathy, serve as foundational pillars in cultivating a spiritually enriching learning environment. The synthesis of empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and biblical insights not only enhances our understanding of the transformative potential of positive relationships in higher education but also underscores their pivotal role in fostering holistic development on a spiritual level. Through this comprehensive exploration, the study contributes significantly to the discourse on the symbiotic relationship between academic success and spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of nurturing positive relationships as a cornerstone of holistic education in higher learning institutions.&lt;/p&gt;

Sea cucumbers and their symbiotic microbiome have evolved to feed on seabed sediments

Sea cucumbers are predominant deposit feeders in benthic ecosystems, providing protective benefits to coral reefs by reducing disease prevalence. However, how they receive sufficient nutrition from seabed sediments remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate Holothuria leucospilota, an ecologically significant tropical sea cucumber, to elucidate digestive mechanisms underlying marine deposit-feeding. Genomic analysis reveals intriguing evolutionary adaptation characterized by an expansion of digestive carbohydrase genes and a contraction of digestive protease genes, suggesting specialization in digesting microalgae. Developmentally, two pivotal dietary shifts, namely, from endogenous nutrition to planktonic feeding, and from planktonic feeding to deposit feeding, induce changes in digestive tract enzyme profiles, with adults mainly expressing carbohydrases and lipases. A nuanced symbiotic relationship exists between gut microbiota and the host, namely, specific resident bacteria supply crucial enzymes for food digestion, while other bacteria are digested and provide assimilable nutrients. Our study further identifies Holothuroidea lineage-specific lysozymes that are restrictedly expressed in the intestines to support bacterial digestion. Overall, this work advances our knowledge of the evolutionary innovations in the sea cucumber digestive system which enable them to efficiently utilize nutrients from seabed sediments and promote food recycling within marine ecosystems.

Exploring the Potential of Bacterial Endophytes in Plant Disease Management.

Endophytic bacteria live in the internal tissues of plants, forming symbiotic, mutualistic, commensalistic and trophobiotic relationships. Some are spread via seeds after sprouting from the rhizosphere or phyllosphere. These bacteria capable of promoting plant growth and impart biotic stress by synthesing plant growth hormones, ACC deaminase, organic acids and siderophore. Endophytes aid in phytoremediation by removing soil contaminants and boosting soil fertility via phosphate solubilization and nitrogen fixation. The endophytic microbes are becoming increasingly popular in biotechnological applications which supports sustainable growth of non-food crops for biomass and biofuel. They offer valuable natural materials which is used in medicine, agriculture and industry. Bacterial endophytes are endowed with the enormous potential in the biological treatment of plant pathogens and considered as the superior alternative to synthetic fungicides. The review emphasizes benefits of bacterial endophytes in promoting plant growth and prospects of agricultural applications viz., increasing crop yield under biotic stress condition and their mode of action towards plant diseases. It also summarises the diverse and vital role of endophytes in agroecosystems as well as insights for sustainable agriculture and crop resilience.

Peace Education through Agroecology and Organic Farming

In this paper, the challenge of peace education appears as an emergent cultural need in a context of conflictual relationships among human beings and between human beings and their life environment. All sectors of human activity, including agriculture, can potentially contribute to building a cultural barrier to a mounting wave of wars. The ecological approach to agriculture through the ecosystem concept is suitable for unveiling the power of cooperation in developing symbiotic relationships between and among agroecosystem components for attaining a balance of ecosystem services (supporting, provisioning, regulating, and cultural). Enhancement of biodiversity within and between cultivated fields is key for the maintenance of sustainable agriculture, land management, and viable rural community. Scaling up cooperation among hierarchical levels of agriculture organisation (field, farm, and regional, national, international landscapes) appears as the most promising solution for developing a coherent framework consistent with building a peaceful attitude for managing both land, food systems, and friendly relationships among human beings. Organic farming is already a certified and appreciated method of agriculture production that has a potential for improving a peaceful attitude when supported by the core principles of Agroecology.

Biodiversity of symbiotic gastropods (Mollusca, Eulimidae) in Vietnamese waters barcoded

ABSTRACT Eulimidae is a prominent group within the class Gastropoda, comprising 1087 species that have developed specialised symbiotic relationships with all extant echinoderm classes. At least 47 species of eulimids can be found in the waters of Vietnam. Representatives of the genus Pulicicochlea, the species Vitreobalcis tripneusticola, and four new undescribed species were observed for the first time. In this study, we update the existing checklists of Vietnamese eulimids, emphasising the use of molecular barcoding to determine the phylogenetic relationships among the collected species. The classical taxonomy of molluscs relies heavily on the morphology of the shell and radula. The family Eulimidae presents challenges as in many species these features are poorly developed, and molecular phylogenetic methods have proven to be more informative for the taxonomy and systematics of this family. To understand the evolutionary pathways in Eulimidae, we constructed a COI-based phylogenetic tree, which included original sequences primarily from Vietnam and all available sequences for Eulimidae from GenBank. The newly obtained genetic information is crucial for enhancing our understanding of this family of gastropod mollusсs, as well as for any future revisions that may be necessary.

Synthesizing a three Layer Architectural Framework for Adaptive Intelligent User Interfaces for the Disabled Community

Knowledge acquisition has been a bottleneck in the design for efficient User Interfaces for Disabled Community. The best suited interfaces have been oriented towards adaptability that is the User Interface needs to adapt and configure itself according to the needs and likes of the user. Such user interfaces can arouse interest in the mind of the disabled and motivate them to become an asset to the nation, and use their intellect to contribute to the society. This study pioneers an innovative approach, aiming to develop User Interfaces (UIs) for the Disabled Community. The research introduces a comprehensive three-layer architectural framework employing Learning, Trust, and Knowledge Models. Unlike conventional approaches, this Architectural Framework is designed to learn not only from the Disabled but also from their Assistants/Guides, employing principles of knowledge engineering. While the former offers static context, the latter contributes dynamic insights by observing behaviors, responses, and actions of the Disabled. This symbiotic relationship forms the foundational basis for developing intelligent adaptive UI’s that not only accommodate but actively engage and motivate the Disabled Community. The proposed research methodology involves a meticulous gathering of data through extensive user studies and interactions. By using the Human Computer Interface technology, the study aims to develop a robust framework capable of comprehensively understanding the preferences, needs, and nuances of disabled users. The expected outcomes include the development of a prototype adaptive UI, validated through rigorous testing and feedback from the disabled community. Additionally, the study anticipates contributing a comprehensive set of guidelines and best practices for designing intelligent adaptive UIs, ensuring comfort and ease for impaired users, boosting their confidence and encouraging greater involvement in socio-development activities.

A New Observation about the Symbiotic Relationship of Clownfish with its Host Anemones: Documentation in Captivity

A New Observation about the Symbiotic Relationship of Clownfish with its Host Anemones: Documentation in Captivity

Industrial symbiosis as enabler and barrier for defossilization: The case of Höchst Industrial Park

Höchst Industrial Park (IPH) was founded in 1863. Over the years, a network of symbiotic relationships has developed between the companies in the park, the park, and the Rhine-Main region, resulting in the efficient use of resources. However, while this industrial symbiosis reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, a shift towards more sustainable energy and raw material supplies is required to meet climate goals. Options include renewable electricity, heat electrification, green hydrogen, carbon capture and utilisation, biomass, and recycling. Such a transformation is challenging because it requires the application of highly innovative technologies on a large scale, the cooperation of many public and private actors, a fast pace to achieve GHG reduction targets, and a high degree of structural complexity due to the need to adapt the infrastructure. This need must be managed amid considerable regulatory uncertainty, a lack of infrastructure for producing and transporting green hydrogen and electricity and increasing international competition between production sites. We analyse how established symbiotic relationships affect the transformation of an existing industrial park using the case of IPH and focus on the manufacturing companies at this site. In addition, we show how a defossilised energy supply in IPH could look and which new symbiotic relationships could develop. We also discuss the role of stakeholder management in achieving coordinated action.

New Ophiostoma species associated with Dryocoetes himalayensis and decline of Juglans regia in Czechia

AbstractA new ophiostomatoid fungus involved in the decline of walnuts was discovered in Czechia. The fungus was isolated from necrotic wood surrounding the larval galleries of Dryocoetes himalayensis, the alien bark beetle attacking walnut trees. This insect species is rather unique within hardwood-associated bark beetle species for its aggressiveness and ability to attack apparently healthy trees. The isolated fungus, associated with an exotic insect vector is described as a new species, Ophiostoma juglandis sp. nov., based on its unique morphology and phylogenetic position. The pathogenicity tests confirmed the aggressiveness of the species to both Juglans regia and J. nigra plants, manifested by formation of extensive bleeding and necrotic lesions. The symbiotic relationship between O. juglandis and D. himalayensis is expected due to massive presence of the fungal spores on surface of adult beetles in pits forming the elytral striae. In the case of hardwood-associated ophiostomatoid fungal species, phytopathogenicity is very rarely observed. The described species is exceptional in this ability, which corresponds to the aggressive behaviour of its vector. The role of the fungus in walnut tree mortality caused by D. himalayensis is discussed.

Seasonal Dynamics of Trichodesmium and Phytoplankton Communities in the Eastern Arabian Sea: Winter Vs Spring-inter monsoon

The filamentous marine cyanobacterium Trichodesmium forms extensive blooms in tropical seas, where it plays an important role in nitrogen fixation. This study investigated Trichodesmium-associated phytoplankton in the Eastern Arabian Sea (EAS) during bloom and nonbloom conditions. Trichodesmium blooms over the continental shelf primarily comprised of T. erythraeum and T. thiebautii during the Spring Inter Monsoon (SIM) and T. erythraeum during the Winter Monsoon (WM). T. erythreaum blooms have rarely been reported from the north-east Arabian Sea during WM. Trichomes comprised of 143-1552 cells during the WM, with filaments ranging from 1339 to 13163 µm in length. Non-diazotrophic groups like diatoms and dinoflagellates were associated with Trichodesmium during both seasons within the bloom waters. The study found a novel symbiotic relationship between the heterocystous diazotroph Richelia intracellularis and Nitzschia sicula during WM blooms. This research expands knowledge of lesser-known phytoplankton species and their associations in the EAS.

Mutual Dependence between a Bosonic Black Hole and Dark Matter and the Explanation of Asymptotically Flat Galaxy Rotation Curves

Mutual Dependence between a Bosonic Black Hole and Dark Matter and the Explanation of Asymptotically Flat Galaxy Rotation Curves

Enhanced Accumulation of Health-Promoting Cajaninstilbene Acid in Pigeon Pea Hairy Root Cultures Cocultured with an Endophytic Fungus during Early Stages of Colonization.

Endophytic fungi can effectively regulate the biosynthesis of health-beneficial metabolites in plants. However, few studies have revealed how the accumulation of host metabolites varies during interactions with endophytic fungi. Here, pigeon pea hairy root cultures (PPHRCs) were cocultured with an endophytic fungus Penicillium rubens to explore the impact on the biosynthesis and accumulation of cajaninstilbene acid (CSA). The results showed that CSA accumulation in PPHRCs increased significantly (15.29-fold) during the early stages of P. rubens colonization (fungal attachment and invasion phases). Once P. rubens successfully colonized the intercellular gap of hairy roots to form a symbiotic relationship, the CSA levels in PPHRCs decreased drastically. Moreover, P. rubens could be recognized by plant pattern recognition receptors that regulate immunity/symbiosis, triggering the expression of genes related to pathogenesis, CSA biosynthesis, and ABC transporter. Overall, P. rubens could enhance the accumulation of health-promoting CSA in PPHRCs during the early stages of colonization.

Modern farming techniques in enhancing rice production: Insights from the anchor borrowers’ programme in Ebonyi state, Nigeria

This work centres on the contribution of the Nigerian government’s Anchor Borrowers’ Programmes on rice production in the country. This study employs quantitative methodology and with a primary objective to dissect the efficacy of modern farming techniques facilitated by the Anchor Borrowers’ Programmes (ABP), evaluates the advantages and disadvantages inherent in rice production under this programme. Conducted within the agricultural landscape of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, this study adopts a cross-sectional survey approach to gauge the symbiotic relationship between rice production and the ABP. Targeting a cohort of rice smallholder farmers who have directly benefited from the program, the work employs stratified random sampling and purposeful selection techniques to guarantee comprehensive representation within a population of 400 respondents. This study utilizes the mixed-methods approach to data collection, including structured questionnaires administered to rice farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. This research tests hypotheses by utilising statistical tools such as regression analysis. The outcome of this study underscores the imperative for continued support and refinement of the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme. Moreover, it elucidates the pivotal role of financial institutions and agricultural lending agencies in equipping farmers with the requisite skills and resources. Ultimately, this study affirms the crucial role of modern farming methodologies in propelling rice production within Ebonyi State, Nigeria. It recommends that young school leavers, especially those in the rural areas should also be encouraged to venture into agriculture through schemes such as the ABP, bank financing and innovative financing so as to help the Federal Government achieve its economic diversification drive.

Indigenous Food System During Monsoon in the Context of India

India, the monsoon season is a culinary spectacle where ancient food traditions, intricately woven through generations, come to life. This period highlights the diverse indigenous food systems, which hold both cultural and ethnic significance, alongside their nutritional value. The monsoon's arrival transforms the culinary landscape, ushering in a vibrant array of flavors and dishes. Indian cuisine shares a symbiotic relationship with the monsoon. The use of indigenous spices not only enhances the taste but also offers antibacterial and antiviral properties, bolstering immunity against seasonal ailments. This season's dynamic platter invites a deeper appreciation for indigenous delicacies like the Maharashtrian 'Vagheteyachi bhaji' and the Indigenous agrarian communities of Chattisgarh celebrating 'Hareli' with medicinal brews of herbs and roots. Even festivals like Janmashtami see unique monsoon-centric dishes like 'Alvati' grace the table. The title of our research project acts as a portal into the intriguing world of culinary choices and practices across diverse Indian communities. Through this endeavor, we aim to unravel the impact of the monsoon on food and health, with a special emphasis on promoting and preserving ancient food practices. The Millet Revolution in India adds another dimension to our exploration. Millets, being resilient crops that thrive in diverse climatic conditions, have gained recognition for their nutritional benefits and suitability for monsoon cultivation. Our research delves into the scientific and religious rationales behind consuming various indigenous foods during different seasons, including those that are avoided to prevent seasonal illnesses. We evaluate governmental initiatives aimed at supporting small-scale farming institutes responsible for producing monsoon seasonal foods. Our research methodology combines primary data collection through questionnaires and community conversations, supplemented by secondary data from official statistics provided by the Government of India on the production of various indigenous food species.