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Search Results (40,375)

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25 pages, 1343 KiB  
Perspective
Quantum Models of Consciousness from a Quantum Information Science Perspective
by Lea Gassab, Onur Pusuluk, Marco Cattaneo and Özgür E. Müstecaplıoğlu
Entropy 2025, 27(3), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/e27030243 (registering DOI) - 26 Feb 2025
Abstract
This perspective explores various quantum models of consciousness from the viewpoint of quantum information science, offering potential ideas and insights. The models under consideration can be categorized into three distinct groups based on the level at which quantum mechanics might operate within the [...] Read more.
This perspective explores various quantum models of consciousness from the viewpoint of quantum information science, offering potential ideas and insights. The models under consideration can be categorized into three distinct groups based on the level at which quantum mechanics might operate within the brain: those suggesting that consciousness arises from electron delocalization within microtubules inside neurons, those proposing it emerges from the electromagnetic field surrounding the entire neural network, and those positing it originates from the interactions between individual neurons governed by neurotransmitter molecules. Our focus is particularly on the Posner model of cognition, for which we provide preliminary calculations on the preservation of entanglement of phosphate molecules within the geometric structure of Posner clusters. These findings provide valuable insights into how quantum information theory can enhance our understanding of brain functions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quantum and Classical Processes in Living Systems)
20 pages, 7908 KiB  
Article
Numerical Simulation of Typhoon Waves in an Offshore Wind Farm Area of the South China Sea
by Baofeng Zhang, Xu Li, Lizhong Wang and Yangyang Gao
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(3), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13030451 (registering DOI) - 26 Feb 2025
Abstract
Environmental load data are an essential input for the analysis of offshore wind structures in typhoon-prone marine environments. However, numerical simulations of typhoon waves lack a systematic examination of the specific influence of typhoon trajectories on the spatial evolution of wave fields. In [...] Read more.
Environmental load data are an essential input for the analysis of offshore wind structures in typhoon-prone marine environments. However, numerical simulations of typhoon waves lack a systematic examination of the specific influence of typhoon trajectories on the spatial evolution of wave fields. In particular, the intricate mechanisms governing wave propagation within wind farm areas remain poorly understood. This present study, drawing upon a real-world case in an offshore wind farm area in the South China Sea, employs the Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model–Surface Wave Module (FVCOM–SWAVE) wave–current coupling model to assess the joint wind–wave distribution characteristics during 35 typhoon events. The findings reveal that typhoon wave fields exhibit a notable rightward bias. As waves approach the coast, the significant wave height decreases progressively due to wave breaking, friction, refraction, and nonlinear interactions. During the passage of typhoons Prapiroon, Hato, and Mangkhut, the significant wave height distribution in the wind farm area closely correlated with the wind speed distribution. By constructing a joint distribution function of sea wind and wave elements, the joint distribution characteristics of wind speed and significant wave height for different return periods can be obtained, providing important oceanic environmental inputs for the design analysis of offshore wind structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Offshore Wind—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 429 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Sustainable Food Initiatives: Preliminary Study
by Sofia G. Florença, Ana Luísa Amaral, Filipa Costa, Raquel P. F. Guiné and Cristina A. Costa
Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2035; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052035 - 26 Feb 2025
Abstract
A sustainable food system can be described as a system that ensures economic, social, and environmental sustainability to secure food and nutrition for current and future generations. The present research aimed to identify and characterize sustainable food initiatives to understand the governance framework, [...] Read more.
A sustainable food system can be described as a system that ensures economic, social, and environmental sustainability to secure food and nutrition for current and future generations. The present research aimed to identify and characterize sustainable food initiatives to understand the governance framework, the motivations, the reasons for success, the typology of actors involved, and future prospects. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for seven initiatives between June and August 2024. The interviews were performed online, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. The results showed that the main drivers of the initiatives relate to food, sustainability, and economic and social dimensions. Moreover, one of the reasons for the success of the initiatives is the availability and commitment of the people involved. These initiatives were created to meet local needs and promote sustainability as well as to encourage economic circularity, knowledge sharing, rural and local valorization, and waste management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Choice and Environmental Concerns—2nd Edition)
20 pages, 2759 KiB  
Article
Screening for Resistant Germplasms and Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping of Resistance to Tomato Chlorosis Virus
by Wenzheng Gao, Zhirong Wang, Chenchen Dong, Kai Wei, Yifan Chen, Zhuoyao Qiu, Ziteng Liu, Xin Li, Lei Liu, Yongchen Du, Zejun Huang, Junming Li and Xiaoxuan Wang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(5), 2060; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26052060 - 26 Feb 2025
Abstract
Tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) is an emerging plant virus that poses a substantial threat to the cultivation of economically vital vegetable crops, particularly tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Despite its substantial impact on crop yield, resistant or tolerant tomato germplasms have not been [...] Read more.
Tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) is an emerging plant virus that poses a substantial threat to the cultivation of economically vital vegetable crops, particularly tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Despite its substantial impact on crop yield, resistant or tolerant tomato germplasms have not been well documented, and the genetic basis of resistance to ToCV remains poorly understood. In this study, two wild accessions that were immune to ToCV and five accessions that were highly resistant to ToCV were identified from 58 tomato accessions. Additionally, a novel method was developed for evaluating resistance to ToCV in tomatoes, and it was observed that tomatoes exhibited typical pathological features on days 15 and 30 after ToCV inoculation, referred to as Stage 1 and Stage 2, respectively. Using quantitative trait locus (QTL) sequencing in conjunction with classical QTL approaches, ToCV resistance loci were identified in two F2 populations derived from the crosses between SG11 (susceptible) and LA1028 (resistant) and between SP15 (susceptible) and LA0444 (resistant). Genetic analysis indicated that resistance to ToCV in the wild-type ToCV-resistant tomato accessions LA1028 and LA0444 was quantitative and mainly governed by four loci (Qtc1.1 and Qtc11.1 from LA1028 and Qtc7.1 and Qtc9.1 from LA0444). Subsequently, transcriptome analysis of three resistant accessions (LA2157, LA0444, and LA1028) and two susceptible accessions (SG11 and SP15) revealed unique differentially expressed genes and specific biological processes in the two stages of ToCV infection. This study provides new resistant germplasms and potential genetic resources for ToCV resistance, which can be valuable in tomato molecular breeding programs in obtaining resistant varieties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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16 pages, 885 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Properties of PVC/TPU Blends Enhanced with a Sustainable Bio-Plasticizer
by Yitbarek Firew Minale, Ivan Gajdoš, Pavol Štefčák, Tamás Szabó, Annamaria Polyákné Kovács, Andrea Ádámné Major and Kálmán Marossy
Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2033; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052033 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 4
Abstract
The development of sustainable and mechanically versatile polymeric materials is essential to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly, high-performance products. This study investigates the mechanical properties of blends comprising polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and glycerol diacetate monolaurate, a bio-based plasticizer derived [...] Read more.
The development of sustainable and mechanically versatile polymeric materials is essential to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly, high-performance products. This study investigates the mechanical properties of blends comprising polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and glycerol diacetate monolaurate, a bio-based plasticizer derived from waste cooking oil, addressing the underexplored combined effects of these components. By varying the proportions, the blends’ tensile strength, elasticity, elongation at break, and hardness were tailored for diverse applications. Incorporating the bio-plasticizer significantly enhanced the PVC’s flexibility and elongation at break, while reducing its tensile strength and rigidity. The addition of TPU further enhanced the elasticity, toughness, and resilience, with the final properties governed by synergistic interactions between PVC’s rigidity, TPU’s elasticity, and the plasticizer’s softening effects. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) confirmed that the bio-plasticizer enhanced the compatibility between the PVC and TPU, leading to ternary PVC/TPU/bio-plasticizer blends with an improved elasticity and elongation at break, without a significant loss in tensile strength. These blends exhibited a broad range of tunable properties, enabling applications from flexible films to impact-resistant components. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of PVC/TPU/bio-plasticizer systems to deliver high-performance materials with enhanced sustainability. This work offers valuable insights for developing greener polymer systems and advancing the creation of tailored materials for diverse industrial applications in alignment with global sustainability goals. Full article
18 pages, 1379 KiB  
Article
Identifying Rural Hotspots for Head and Neck Cancer Using the Bayesian Mapping Approach
by Poornima Ramamurthy, John Adeoye, Siu-Wai Choi, Peter Thomson and Dileep Sharma
Cancers 2025, 17(5), 819; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17050819 (registering DOI) - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 11
Abstract
Background: The Bayesian mapping approach has not been used to identify head and neck cancer hotspots in Australia previously. This study aims to identify rural communities at risk of head and neck cancer (HNC) for targeted prevention programs. Methods: This study [...] Read more.
Background: The Bayesian mapping approach has not been used to identify head and neck cancer hotspots in Australia previously. This study aims to identify rural communities at risk of head and neck cancer (HNC) for targeted prevention programs. Methods: This study included data from 23,853 cases recorded in the Queensland Cancer Register between 1982 and 2018. Outcomes for mapping included incidence, overall mortality, 3-year mortality, and 5-year mortality. Local government areas (LGAs) with a general population aged 15 years and above (according to 2016 census data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics) were utilized for mapping. Results: Of the 59 LGAs with higher-than-average risk, 22 predominantly rural and remote LGAs showed statistically significant higher risks of head and neck cancer occurrence. Estimated median standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) ranged from 0.57 to 3.44 and were higher than the state average in 38 LGAs. Four LGAs had the highest mortality—the Shires of Quilpie, Yarrabah, Murweh, and Hinchinbrook. Conclusions: Whilst reasons for some LGAs exhibiting higher HNC are unknown, Bayesian mapping highlights these rural and remote regions as worthy of further investigation. In conclusion, the Bayesian disease mapping approach is effective in identifying high-risk communities for HNC. Findings from this study will aid in designing targeted screening and interventions for the prevention and management of head and neck cancer in regional and remote communities through support services such as a cancer navigator. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biostatistics in Cancer Research)
20 pages, 740 KiB  
Article
Towards Decarbonization: Sustainable Incentives in a Price-Competitive Maritime Supply Chain with Environmentally Conscious Shippers
by Lijuan Yang, Fangcheng Liao and Yong He
Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2030; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052030 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 7
Abstract
Transitioning carriers to low-emission technologies requires huge investment, and subsidies have proven to be efficient tools in overcoming cost barriers. In this study, game-theoretic models were formulated to study the impact of subsidies on carbon emissions reduction with green shippers in a price-competitive [...] Read more.
Transitioning carriers to low-emission technologies requires huge investment, and subsidies have proven to be efficient tools in overcoming cost barriers. In this study, game-theoretic models were formulated to study the impact of subsidies on carbon emissions reduction with green shippers in a price-competitive environment. Equilibrium solutions for three scenarios were derived through model analysis, followed by numerical analyses. The results indicate the following: (1) Government subsidies are effective and advantageous for decarbonization with carrier competition but will lower service prices, profits, and social welfare. (2) Intensified price competition leads to increases in carbon emissions, service prices, and social welfare while decreasing demands and profits in some scenarios. (3) Shippers’ green preferences have a positive effect on carbon emission reduction, profits, and social welfare. These findings provide valuable managerial insights for both the government and shipping companies in promoting a more sustainable environment. Full article
25 pages, 20418 KiB  
Article
Differential Evolution and Main Controlling Factors of Inner-Platform Carbonate Reservoirs in Restricted–Evaporative Environment: A Case Study of O2m56 in the Ordos Basin, North China
by Mengying Yang, Xiucheng Tan, Zhaolei Fei, Zixing Lu, Wancai Nie, Ying Xiong, Di Xiao, Jie Xu, Shoukang Zhong and Jingkang Yong
Minerals 2025, 15(3), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15030236 (registering DOI) - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1
Abstract
The potential for oil and gas exploration within inter-salt reservoirs is substantial, primarily due to their significant heterogeneity, which complicates accurate predictions. This study focuses on the inter-salt reservoirs of the sixth sub-member of the fifth member of the Majiagou Formation (hereafter referred [...] Read more.
The potential for oil and gas exploration within inter-salt reservoirs is substantial, primarily due to their significant heterogeneity, which complicates accurate predictions. This study focuses on the inter-salt reservoirs of the sixth sub-member of the fifth member of the Majiagou Formation (hereafter referred to as O2m56) in the Ordos Basin, North China. Utilizing core samples, thin sections, and petrophysical data, we investigated the differential evolution and primary controlling factors of the inter-salt carbonate reservoirs. The key findings are as follows: (1) During the sedimentary phase of O2m56, high-energy sediments, such as shoals and microbial mounds, were deposited in highlands, while low-energy sediments, including dolomitic lagoons and gypsiferous lagoons, emerged in depressions from west to east. (2) In a restricted–evaporative environment, highlands are prone to karstification, which significantly enhances the development of inter-salt reservoirs and generates a variety of reservoir spaces, including interparticle dissolved pores, growth-framework dissolved pores, and micropores between vadose silts. (3) The presence of alternating highlands and depressions obstructs seawater flow, leading to a progressive increase in salinity from west to east. This process ultimately facilitates the infilling of reservoir spaces with calcite, anhydrite, and halite cements in the same direction. (4) The three components—reservoir rocks, karstification, and infilling features—exert varying effects in the region and collectively govern the north–south distribution of inter-salt reservoirs. Overall, this study examines the characteristics and controlling factors of carbonate reservoirs within a restricted–evaporative platform environment and provides pertinent research cases for the exploration of inter-salt reservoirs. Full article
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45 pages, 15651 KiB  
Article
Remediation Geology and Process-Based Conceptual Site Models to Optimize Groundwater Remediation
by Richard Cramer, Beth L. Parker and James Mark Stapleton
Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2027; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052027 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 4
Abstract
The Environmental Consulting Industry in the United States has historically prioritized engineering approaches over geologic science in addressing groundwater contamination. This engineering-centric bias has often resulted in oversimplified conceptual site models (CSMs) that fail to capture subsurface heterogeneity, limiting the effectiveness of groundwater [...] Read more.
The Environmental Consulting Industry in the United States has historically prioritized engineering approaches over geologic science in addressing groundwater contamination. This engineering-centric bias has often resulted in oversimplified conceptual site models (CSMs) that fail to capture subsurface heterogeneity, limiting the effectiveness of groundwater remediation strategies. Recognizing the critical role of geology, the industry is increasingly adopting a Remediation Geology approach, which emphasizes the development of robust geologic models as the foundation for remediation programs. Geologic models optimize site lithologic data to define subsurface permeability architecture. The geologic model primarily serves as the structure to develop a Process-Based CSM, which is a holistic model that supports the entire remediation life cycle. A Process-Based CSM addresses the physical, chemical, and biological processes governing contaminant occurrence with the goal of modeling and predicting subsurface conditions for improved decision making with respect to monitoring programs and remediation design. Case studies highlight the transformative impact of Remediation Geology and Process-Based CSMs, demonstrating significant improvements in cleanup efficiency and resource optimization across diverse hydrogeologic settings. By addressing site complexities such as fine-grained units and fracture networks, Remediation Geology and Process-Based CSMs have proven effective for contaminants ranging from chlorinated solvents to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and radionuclides. Full article
25 pages, 3260 KiB  
Article
Coupled Water–Energy–Carbon Study of the Agricultural Sector in the Great River Basin: Empirical Evidence from the Yellow River Basin, China
by Jingwei Song, Jianhui Cong, Yuqing Liu, Weiqiang Zhang, Ran Liang and Jun Yang
Systems 2025, 13(3), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13030160 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 2
Abstract
In the context of sustainable development, water resources, energy, and carbon emissions are pivotal factors influencing the rational planning of economic development and the secure establishment of ecological barriers. As a core food production area, how can the Great River Basin balance the [...] Read more.
In the context of sustainable development, water resources, energy, and carbon emissions are pivotal factors influencing the rational planning of economic development and the secure establishment of ecological barriers. As a core food production area, how can the Great River Basin balance the pressure on the “water–energy–carbon” system (WEC) to realize the coordinated development of “nature–society–economy”? Taking the Yellow River Basin in China as the research object, this paper explores the coupling characteristics and virtual transfer trends of WEC in the agricultural sector under the condition of mutual constraints. The results show the following: (1) On the dynamic coupling characteristics, W-E and E-C are strongly coupled with each other. The optimization of water resource allocation and the development of energy-saving water use technology make the W-E consumption show a downward trend, and the large-scale promotion of agricultural mechanization makes the E-C consumption show an upward trend. (2) On the spatial distribution of transfer, there is an obvious path dependence of virtual WEC transfer, showing a trend of transfer from less developed regions to developed regions, and the coupling strength decreases from developed regions to less developed regions. The assumption of producer responsibility serves to exacerbate the problem of inter-regional development imbalances. (3) According to the cross-sectoral analysis, water resources are in the center of sectoral interaction, and controlling the upstream sector of the resource supply will indirectly affect the synergistic relationship of WEC, and controlling the downstream sector of resource consumption will indirectly affect the constraint relationship of WEC. This study provides theoretical and methodological references for the Great River Basin to cope with the resource and environmental pressure brought by global climate change and the effective allocation of inter-regional resources. Full article
21 pages, 1704 KiB  
Article
A Text Data Mining-Based Digital Transformation Opinion Thematic System for Online Social Media Platforms
by Haihan Liao, Chengmin Wang, Yanzhang Gu and Renhuai Liu
Systems 2025, 13(3), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13030159 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1
Abstract
Digital transformation(DT) has become an important engine for the development of the digital economy and an important means of reshaping corporate culture, business processes, management models, and so on. Different social communities at different levels have different needs and understandings of digital transformation. [...] Read more.
Digital transformation(DT) has become an important engine for the development of the digital economy and an important means of reshaping corporate culture, business processes, management models, and so on. Different social communities at different levels have different needs and understandings of digital transformation. Therefore, this paper proposes to explore the communication themes of digital transformation on social media. This study’s main objective is to uncover underlying thematic structures and core ideas from large amounts of textual data in different social media communities to better understand the significance of the communication themes. This paper also aims to reveal the characteristics of diffusion patterns of DT themes by opinion-themed mining. This study uses text mining and social network analysis methods to mine DT themes, theme structure, and the statistical characteristics of hot words across various online communities. The main findings of this study are as follows. The Huawei forum discusses the technological drivers of the digital economy from a micro level. Sohu News explores business operation strategies at a macro level. The Zhihu forum discusses the elements of digital development at the micro level. Moreover, the hot words’ degree centrality and betweenness centrality across various online communities exhibited a power law distribution. In conclusion, this research paper studies and analyzes DT themes of different social media platforms to discover the opinions and attitudes of various social groups in the digital transformation era and deeply interprets social trends and public opinions in order to provide valuable decision-making theoretical support for managers, enterprises, and governments. Full article
19 pages, 1799 KiB  
Article
Supply Chain Model for Mini Wind Power Systems in Urban Areas
by Isvia Zazueta, Edgar Valenzuela, Alejandro Lambert-Arista, José R. Ayala and Rodny Garcia
Resources 2025, 14(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14030038 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1
Abstract
The pursuit of energy security has become one of the most important challenges facing modern societies worldwide. The increase in energy consumption and the need to promote sustainability puts pressure on power generation systems. In this context, renewable energy sources have become a [...] Read more.
The pursuit of energy security has become one of the most important challenges facing modern societies worldwide. The increase in energy consumption and the need to promote sustainability puts pressure on power generation systems. In this context, renewable energy sources have become a favorable option to improve both energy security and sustainability while promoting the use of domestic energy sources. The supply chain is an optimized methodology that includes all necessary activities to bring a product to the final consumer. Traditionally applied in the manufacturing industry, recent evidence shows its successful implementation in various renewable energy sectors. In this work, a novel methodology based on a supply chain was designed to evaluate the feasibility of mini wind power systems in urban areas in an integrated and measurable manner. The main contribution lies in the integration of several different approaches, currently recognized as the most relevant factors for determining the viability of wind energy projects. A five-link supply chain model was proposed, which includes an evaluation of wind potential, supplier network, project technical assessment, customer distribution, and equipment final disposal. Specific metric indicators for each link were developed to evaluate technical, legislative, and social considerations. The methodology was applied in a case study in the city of Mexicali, Mexico. The findings show that although wind as a resource remains the most important factor, local government policies that promote the use of renewable energy, the supplier’s availability, qualified human resources, and spare parts are also of equivalent significance for the successful implementation of mini wind power systems. Full article
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26 pages, 1291 KiB  
Article
Toward Sustainable Urban Development: Exploring the Polycentric Transition of Chinese Cities Through Nighttime Lights
by Yan Wang and Kai Liu
Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 2013; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17052013 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 56
Abstract
Studying urban spatial structure (USS) is crucial for advancing sustainable urban development. This study examined the USS of 292 cities in China from 2007 to 2022 using nighttime lights and the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index. The determinants of USS were analyzed through a fixed-effects spatial [...] Read more.
Studying urban spatial structure (USS) is crucial for advancing sustainable urban development. This study examined the USS of 292 cities in China from 2007 to 2022 using nighttime lights and the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index. The determinants of USS were analyzed through a fixed-effects spatial Durbin model based on the theoretical framework of influencing factors. The findings revealed a nationwide trend toward a polycentric USS across various city types. Economic growth drove the transformation from a monocentric to a polycentric USS. Additionally, the development of postal infrastructure promoted a shift toward a polycentric USS. Transportation infrastructure, industrial structure, residential consumption level, and government intervention were pivotal in shaping a monocentric USS. Regarding spatial spillover effects, transportation infrastructure, industrial structure, and economic growth fostered a polycentric tendency in neighboring cities, whereas government intervention reinforced a monocentric tendency. Full article
12 pages, 697 KiB  
Article
Taxonomic Revision and Conservation Review of Sinocyclocheilus grahami (Regan, 1904), the Only Known Cavefish Applied Both in the Traditional Medicine and Aquaculture
by Wuyang Liu, Yahui Zhao and Jinqing Huang
Fishes 2025, 10(3), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10030099 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 73
Abstract
Sinocyclocheilus grahami (Regan, 1904) is the only known cavefish used both in traditional medicine and aquaculture in the world, and it is also a national protected animal. However, its taxonomy and distribution remain ambiguous, hindering effective conservation and resource utilization. This study clarifies [...] Read more.
Sinocyclocheilus grahami (Regan, 1904) is the only known cavefish used both in traditional medicine and aquaculture in the world, and it is also a national protected animal. However, its taxonomy and distribution remain ambiguous, hindering effective conservation and resource utilization. This study clarifies the taxonomy of S. grahami through field surveys, specimen examination, and literature reviews, combined with principal component analysis (PCA) for morphological comparison. The results indicate that S. grahami and S. guanduensis show no significant morphological differences, supporting the recognition of S. guanduensis as a junior synonym of S. grahami. Sinocyclocheilus huanglongdongensis, and S. hei, once synonyms of S. grahami, should be valid. The species faces a significant population decline, and its distribution is now restricted to a few unpolluted streams around Dianchi Lake. While artificial breeding has been successful, further studies are needed to determine the medicinal efficacy of these individuals. To address the conservation and sustainable use of this species, habitat restoration should be prioritized, particularly in protecting cave environments and maintaining groundwater connectivity. Additionally, artificial breeding and release in restored habitats are essential to establish a sustainable ecological governance system that supports biodiversity and regional development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Taxonomy, Evolution, and Biogeography)
20 pages, 2406 KiB  
Article
Natural Savannah Systems Within the “One Welfare” Approach: Part 1—Good Farmers’ Perspectives, Environmental Challenges and Opportunities
by Marlyn H. Romero, Sergio A. Gallego-Polania and Jorge A. Sanchez
Animals 2025, 15(5), 677; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15050677 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 132
Abstract
The Colombian Orinoquia is considered one of the eight most important ecosystems in the world. Savannah ecosystems play an essential role in providing ecosystem services. The objectives were (a) to explore and identify the perceptions of traditional farmers and institutional representatives regarding human [...] Read more.
The Colombian Orinoquia is considered one of the eight most important ecosystems in the world. Savannah ecosystems play an essential role in providing ecosystem services. The objectives were (a) to explore and identify the perceptions of traditional farmers and institutional representatives regarding human well-being, animal welfare and the environment, and (b) to identify environmental challenges and opportunities for improvement based on the “One Welfare” concept. Three focal groups were developed: male and female farmers and institutional representatives (n = 24) from Vichada. A thematic analysis, coding with an inductive approach and the definition of themes and sub-themes were carried out. The concept of being “a good farmer” explains the behavior of the producers, where the perception of human well-being is associated with the value of the family and the sense of pride in their tradition as “llanero”. Animal welfare was considered a symbol of profitability and prestige for cattle farmers, a concept that, for them, mixed traditional management, water supply, shade and feed, good health and the natural behavior of cattle. Regarding the environment, this concept is based on their awareness of the importance of conserving the natural savannah. Among the environmental challenges described are climate change, solid waste management and the use of controlled burns. Regarding opportunities for improvement, they proposed strengthening institutional dynamics, partnerships, environmental governance and education. Our results can provide information on the “One Welfare” approach and the motivation of farmers to care for animals and the environment, a fundamental aspect for developing effective intervention strategies. Full article
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