Vultures are the only obligate scavengers among extant vertebrates.They provide valuable ecological services in ecosystems through removing carcasses,thus preventing the growth of other scavenger populations and the s...Vultures are the only obligate scavengers among extant vertebrates.They provide valuable ecological services in ecosystems through removing carcasses,thus preventing the growth of other scavenger populations and the spread of pathogens.Moreover,their specific diets expose them to various deadly pathogens,which makes them potential candidates for studying molecular adaptations required to survive this extremely specialized scavenging habit.In this review,we summarize the morphological characteristics and behavioral habits,origin and phylogeny,and molecular adaptations to scavenging in both Old and New World vultures.The two groups of vultures share a similar appearance,indicative of convergent evolution.Vultures have experienced different degrees of specialization in their sensory organs;Old World vultures depend on sight,while New World ones depend on both smell and sight.Combined fossil records and molecular data suggest that vultures evolved independently,with distinct phylogenetic positions.We also explored their adaptation to scavenging in facial and intestinal microbiomes,gastric acid secretion and immunity.Compared with the facial microbiome,the intestinal microbiome had a lower diversity,dominated by Fusobacteria and Clostridia.The phages and single invertebrate species Adineta vaga,which feeds on dead bacteria and protozoa,present in the gut suggest a possible alternative defense mechanism.Several genes involved in gastric acidic secretion(including ATP4B,SLC26A7 and SST)and immunity(including BCL6,STING,and TLRs) undergoing positive selection likely have essential roles in eliminating invasive pathogens and initiating an innate immune response.Taken together,this review presents the current research status of vultures and highlights the use of vultures as a model for exploring molecular adaptations of dietary specialization in birds.It also provides a theoretical basis for the study of the genetic mechanisms of vultures to scavenging,and contributes to the formulation of vulture conservation strategies.展开更多
Objective:To describe clinical signs,pathology,diagnosis and treatment of Cape vultures in which Aspergillus fumigatus(A.fumigatus)and mixed species of bacteria were isolated.Methods:Six Cape vultures sourced from Sou...Objective:To describe clinical signs,pathology,diagnosis and treatment of Cape vultures in which Aspergillus fumigatus(A.fumigatus)and mixed species of bacteria were isolated.Methods:Six Cape vultures sourced from South Africa for exhibition at Al Ain Zoo developed illness manifesting as anorexia,dyspnea,polyuria and lethargy.Three vultures died manifesting"pneumonia-like syndrome".These three vultures were necropsied and gross lesions recorded,while organ tissues were collected for histopathology.Internal organs were swabbed for bacteriology and mycology.From live vultures,blood was collected for hematology and biochemistry,oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were collected for mycology and bacteriology.Results:A.fumigatus was isolated from the three dead vultures and two live ones that eventually survived.One of the dead vulture and two live vultures were co-infected with A.fumigatus and mixed species of bacteria that included Clostridium perfringens,Pseudomonas,Staphylococcus,Escherichia,Proteus,Enterococcus and Enterbacter.One of the Cape vulture and a Lappetfaced vulture,however,were free of Aspergillus or bacterial infections.At necropsy,intestinal hemorrhages were observed and the lungs were overtly congested with granulomas present on caudal air sac.Histopathologtcal examinations demonstrated granulomatous lesions that were infiltrated by mononuclear cells and giant cells.Conclusions:Aspergillosis is a persistent threat to captive birds and we recommend routine health assessments so that early diagnosis may prompt early treatment.It is likely that prompt prophylaxis by broad spectrum antibiotics and antifungals medication contributed to the survival of some of the vultures.展开更多
Improving the prediction accuracy of wind power is an effective means to reduce the impact of wind power on power grid.Therefore,we proposed an improved African vulture optimization algorithm(AVOA)to realize the predi...Improving the prediction accuracy of wind power is an effective means to reduce the impact of wind power on power grid.Therefore,we proposed an improved African vulture optimization algorithm(AVOA)to realize the prediction model of multi-objective optimization least squares support vector machine(LSSVM).Firstly,the original wind power time series was decomposed into a certain number of intrinsic modal components(IMFs)using variational modal decomposition(VMD).Secondly,random numbers in population initialization were replaced by Tent chaotic mapping,multi-objective LSSVM optimization was introduced by AVOA improved by elitist non-dominated sorting and crowding operator,and then each component was predicted.Finally,Tent multi-objective AVOA-LSSVM(TMOALSSVM)method was used to sum each component to obtain the final prediction result.The simulation results show that the improved AVOA based on Tent chaotic mapping,the improved non-dominated sorting algorithm with elite strategy,and the improved crowding operator are the optimal models for single-objective and multi-objective prediction.Among them,TMOALSSVM model has the smallest average error of stroke power values in four seasons,which are 0.0694,0.0545 and 0.0211,respectively.The average value of DS statistics in the four seasons is 0.9902,and the statistical value is the largest.The proposed model effectively predicts four seasons of wind power values on lateral and longitudinal precision,and faster and more accurately finds the optimal solution on the current solution space sets,which proves that the method has a certain scientific significance in the development of wind power prediction technology.展开更多
The joint-bolt-African Vulture optimization algorithm(AVOA)model is proposed for the design of building connections to improve the stability of steel beam-to-column connections.For this algorithm,the type of steel is ...The joint-bolt-African Vulture optimization algorithm(AVOA)model is proposed for the design of building connections to improve the stability of steel beam-to-column connections.For this algorithm,the type of steel is first determined,and the number of bolts needed by the corresponding steel type is referenced in Eurocode 3.Then,the bearing capacity of the joint can be calculated.The joint-bolt-AVOA model is established by substituting the bolt number required by the steel into the algorithm to obtain the optimal bolt number required while ensuring joint stability.The results show that the number of bolts required by the joint-bolt-AVOA model based on the stability of steel is lower than that calculated by Eurocode 3.Therefore,AVOA can effectively optimize the number of bolts needed in building connections and save resources.展开更多
Abiotic factors play an important role in species localisation,but biotic and anthropogenic predictors must also be considered in distribution modelling for models to be biologically meaningful.In this study,we formal...Abiotic factors play an important role in species localisation,but biotic and anthropogenic predictors must also be considered in distribution modelling for models to be biologically meaningful.In this study,we formalised the biotic predictors of nesting sites for four threatened Caucasian vultures by including species distribution models(wild ungulates,nesting tree species)as biotic layers in the vulture Maxent models.Maxent was applied in the R dismo package and the best set of the model parameters were defined in the R ENMeval package.Performance metrics were continuous Boyce index,Akaike's information criterion,the area under receiver operating curve and true skill statistics.We also calculated and evaluated the null models.Kernel density estimation method was applied to assess the overlap of vulture ecological niches in the environmental space.The accessibility of anthropogenic food resources was estimated using the Path Distance measure that considers elevation gradient.The availability of pine forests(Scots Pine)and wild ungulates(Alpine Chamois and Caucasian Goat)contributed the most(29.6%and 34.3%)to Cinereous Vulture(Aegypius monachus)nesting site model.Wild ungulate distribution also contributed significantly(about 46%)to the Bearded Vulture(Gypaetus barbatus)model.This scavenger nests in the highlands of the Caucasus at a minimum distance of 5–10 km from anthropogenic facilities.In contrast,livestock as a food source was most important in colony distribution of Griffon Vulture(Gyps fulvus).The contribution of distances to settlements and agricultural facilities to the model was 45%.The optimal distance from Egyptian Vulture(Neophron percnopterus)nesting sites to settlements was only 3–10 km,to livestock facilities no more than 15 km with the factor contribution of about 57%.Excluding the wild ungulate availability,the ecological niches of studied vultures overlapped significantly.Despite similar foraging and nesting requirements,Caucasian vultures are not pronounced nesting and trophic competitors due to the abundance of nesting sites,anthropogenic food sources and successful niche sharing.展开更多
Background:Himalayan Griffons(Gyps himalayensis),large scavenging raptors widely distributed in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau,have evolved a remarkable ability to feed on carcasses without suffering any adverse effects.The ...Background:Himalayan Griffons(Gyps himalayensis),large scavenging raptors widely distributed in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau,have evolved a remarkable ability to feed on carcasses without suffering any adverse effects.The gut microbiome plays an important role in animal physiological and pathological processes,and has also been found to play a health protective role in the vulture adaptation to scavenging.However,the microbial taxonomic diversity(including nonculturable and culturable microbes),functions,and metabolites related to Himalayan Griffons have not been fully explored.Methods:In the present study,the 28 fecal samples of the Himalayan Griffons and 8 carrion samples were collected and sequenced using high-throughput 16 S rRNA gene sequencing methods to analyze the composition and functional structures of the microbiomes.Twelve fecal samples of the Himalayan Griffons were analyzed using untargeted Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy(LC-MS)to identify metabolites.We used different culture conditions to grow Himalayan Griffons gut microbes.Inhibitory effects of gut beneficial bacteria on 5 common pathogenic bacteria were also tested using the Oxford cup method.Results:According to the results of the culture-independent method,a high abundance of four major phyla in Himalayan Griffons were identified,including Fusobacteria,Firmicutes,Bacteroidetes,and Proteobacteria.The most abundant genera were Fusobacterium,followed by Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1,Cetobacterium,Epulopiscium,and Bacteroides.The predicted primary functional categories of the Himalayan Griffons'gut microbiome were associated with carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism,replication and repair,and membrane transport.LC-MS metabolomic analysis showed a total of 154 metabolites in all the fecal samples.Cultivation yielded 184 bacterial isolates with Escherichia coli,Enterococcus faecium,Enterococcus hirae,and Paeniclostridium sordellii as most common isolates.Moreover,7 potential beneficial gut bacteria isolated showed certain inhibition to 5 common pathogenic bacteria.Conclusions:Our findings broaden and deepen the understanding of Himalayan Griffons'gut microbiome,and highlighted the importance of gut microbiome-mediated adaptation to scavenging habits.In particular,our results highlighted the protective role of gut beneficial bacteria in the Himalayan Griffons against pathogenic bacteria that appear in rotten food resources.展开更多
In 2 April 2012 a birdwatcher,Mr.Hong Guo,found a strange white bird near a garbage dump in Wuqia County,(39°55′N,75°15′E),at an elevation of 2100m.This location is approximately 80km west of Kaxgar.After ...In 2 April 2012 a birdwatcher,Mr.Hong Guo,found a strange white bird near a garbage dump in Wuqia County,(39°55′N,75°15′E),at an elevation of 2100m.This location is approximately 80km west of Kaxgar.After experts checked the photographs,it was identified as an展开更多
The aim of the present study was to characterize a collection of Escherichia coli strains isolated from asymptomatic griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) during a reintroduction program in the southeast of Spain, in order to...The aim of the present study was to characterize a collection of Escherichia coli strains isolated from asymptomatic griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) during a reintroduction program in the southeast of Spain, in order to establish if griffon vulture could play a role in the spread of resistant or potentially pathogenic E. coli strains. For this purpose, 14 E. coli strains obtained from 10 griffon vulture were studied to establish their serotypes, phylogroups, virulencegene profiles and antimicrobial resistances. High heterogeneity was observed within the 14 strains isolated which belonged to three phylogroups (A, B1 and D), 8 serogroups (O2, O21, O29, O60, 073, O78, O103 and O141) and 13 different serotypes. Out of 34 genes screened, we have detected eight virulence genes that are typical of extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) (fimH, fimAvMT78, iroN, iucD, cvaC, iss, traT and tsh);however, none of the studied strains showed the ExPEC status. The 14 strains were also analyzed for the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and for antimicrobial resistances. None of the 14 strains were ESBL-producing E. coli, but high resistance-prevalences to ampicillin and cotrimoxazole were detected. To our knowledge, this is the first characterization of E. coli strains isolated from griffon vulture and although they did not show high virulencegene scores, they showed cotrimoxazole resistance.展开更多
Patterns of variation in the size of vulture foraging groups,and their ecological causes and consequences,remain litle explored despite strong links with the carrion recycling service that this key functional group pr...Patterns of variation in the size of vulture foraging groups,and their ecological causes and consequences,remain litle explored despite strong links with the carrion recycling service that this key functional group provides.We documented the group size-frequency pattern of Andean con-dors Vultur gryphus gathered to feed on 42 equine carcasses experimentally placed in Bolivia,between 2012 and 2019,along an elevation range of 1,300-4,500 m asl.Based on the location(altitude and latitude)of the foraging groups,we examined the relationship between their size and species'population parameters(size and trend),habitat conditions,and livestock carcass availability and predictability.Condors utilized a high frequency(93%)of carcasses forming groups that ranged from 1 to 80 individuals(mean=25,median=18)and shaped a"lazy-J curve"typical pattern of size-frequency distribution whereby few groups(5,12%)were large(>55 individuals)and most(21,50%)were relatively small(<19 individuals).Group size related to altitude in that most larger groups formed at lower sites(below c.3,000 m asl),likely following an altitudinal gradient whereby larger groups are more likely to form around larger carcasses(i.e.,cattle),which are more likely to occur at lower elevations.Regardless of population size,group size could be an adaptive response of condors via local enhancement for improving individual scavenging efficiency.Many information gaps on this topic still exist,thus we provide a set of questions to address them,especially amidst the unrestricted impacts of human activities that condition vulture survival globally.展开更多
The uncertainties associated with multi-area power systems comprising both thermal and distributed renewable generation(DRG)sources such as solar and wind necessitate the use of an efficient load frequency control(LFC...The uncertainties associated with multi-area power systems comprising both thermal and distributed renewable generation(DRG)sources such as solar and wind necessitate the use of an efficient load frequency control(LFC)technique.Therefore,a hybrid version of two metaheuristic algorithms(arithmetic optimization and African vulture’s optimization algorithm)is developed.It is called the‘arithmetic optimized African vulture’s optimization algorithm(AOAVOA)’.This algorithm is used to tune a novel type-2 fuzzy-based proportional–derivative branched with dual degree-of-freedom proportional–integral–derivative controller for the LFC of a three-area hybrid deregulated power system.Thermal,electric vehicle(EV),and DRG sources(including a solar panel and a wind turbine system)are con-nected in area-1.Area-2 involves thermal and gas-generating units(GUs),while thermal and geothermal units are linked in area-3.Practical restrictions such as thermo-boiler dynamics,thermal-governor dead-band,and genera-tion rate constraints are also considered.The proposed LFC method is compared to other controllers and optimizers to demonstrate its superiority in rejecting step and random load disturbances.By functioning as energy storage ele-ments,EVs and DRG units can enhance dynamic responses during peak demand.As a result,the effect of the afore-mentioned units on dynamic reactions is also investigated.To validate its effectiveness,the closed-loop system is subjected to robust stability analysis and is compared to various existing control schemes from the literature.It is determined that the suggested AOAVOA improves fitness by 40.20%over the arithmetic optimizer(AO),while fre-quency regulation is improved by 4.55%over an AO-tuned type-2 fuzzy-based branched controller.展开更多
Satellite-tracking technology has allowed scientists to make a quantum leap in the field of migration ecology. Nowadays, the basic description of migratory routes of many species of birds has been reported. However, t...Satellite-tracking technology has allowed scientists to make a quantum leap in the field of migration ecology. Nowadays, the basic description of migratory routes of many species of birds has been reported. However, the investigation of bird migration at individual level （i.e. repeatability in migratory routes and timing） still remains seldom explored. Here, we investigated repeated migratory trips of a trans-Saharan endangered migratory raptor, the Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus, tracked by GPS satellite telemetry. We compared between- and within-individual variation in migratory routes and timing in order to assess the degree of repeatability （or conversely, the flexibility） in migration. To this end, we analysed a dataset of 48 trips （23 springs and 25 autumns） recorded for six adult birds during 2007-2013. Our results showed consistent migration timing at the individual level, both in spring and autumn. Interestingly, there was a high degree of flexibility in the routes followed by the same individual in different years, probably due to variations in meteorological conditions. Contrary to expectations of a faster migration in spring than in autumn owing to a time-minimization strategy for breeding, birds spent less time in autumn migration （13 ± 2 days, range = 9-18 d） than in spring migration （19 ± 3 days, range = 13-26 d）, which can be explained by differences in environmental con- ditions en route. Egyptian vultures showed a consistent clockwise loop migration through western Africa, following more easterly routes in autumn than in spring. Finally, our results provide supporting evidence of low phenotypic plasticity in timing of migration （i.e. strong endogenous control of migration） and high flexibility in routes [Current Zoology 60 （5）： 642-652, 2014].展开更多
Vultures provide invaluable ecosystem services and play an important role in ecosystem balancing. The number of native vultures in India has declined in the past. Acquiring present knowledge of their habitat spread is...Vultures provide invaluable ecosystem services and play an important role in ecosystem balancing. The number of native vultures in India has declined in the past. Acquiring present knowledge of their habitat spread is essential to manage and prevent such a decline. It is envisaged that ongoing climate crisis may further cause change in habitat suitability and impact the existing population. Therefore, this study in Central India—a vulture stronghold, is aimed at predicting habitat changes in the short and long term and present the data statistically and graphically by using Species Distribution Model. MaxEnt software was chosen for its advantages over other models, like using presence-only data and performing well with incomplete data, small sample sizes and gaps, etc. Global Climate Model ensemble(CCSM4, HadGEM2 AO and MIROC5), was used to get better prediction. Fourteen robust models(AUC 0.864 0.892) were developed using data from over 1000 locations of seven vulture species over two seasons together. Selected climatic and other environmental variables were used to predict the current habitat. Future prediction was based on climatic variables only. The most important variables influencing the distribution were precipitation(bio 15, bio 18, bio 19) and temperature(bio 3, bio 5). Forest and water bodies were the major influencers within land use-landcover in the current prediction. At finer scale, while extremely suitable habitat area decreased and highly suitable area increased over time, the total suitable area marginally increased in 2050 but decreased in 2070. For broader consideration, net loss in suitable area was 5% in 2050 and 7.17% in 2070(RCP4.5). Similarly, in the RCP8.5 this was 6% in 2050 and 7.3% in 2070. The data generated can be used in conservation planning and management and thus protecting the vultures from any future threat.展开更多
基金supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32201267)Natural Science Foundation of Anhui Province (2208085QC71)+2 种基金the Key University Science Research Project of Anhui Province (KJ2021A0128)supported by the Key University Science Research Project of Anhui Province (KJ2020A0085)supported in part by the Plateau Ecology Youth Innovative Fund of Wuhan University
文摘Vultures are the only obligate scavengers among extant vertebrates.They provide valuable ecological services in ecosystems through removing carcasses,thus preventing the growth of other scavenger populations and the spread of pathogens.Moreover,their specific diets expose them to various deadly pathogens,which makes them potential candidates for studying molecular adaptations required to survive this extremely specialized scavenging habit.In this review,we summarize the morphological characteristics and behavioral habits,origin and phylogeny,and molecular adaptations to scavenging in both Old and New World vultures.The two groups of vultures share a similar appearance,indicative of convergent evolution.Vultures have experienced different degrees of specialization in their sensory organs;Old World vultures depend on sight,while New World ones depend on both smell and sight.Combined fossil records and molecular data suggest that vultures evolved independently,with distinct phylogenetic positions.We also explored their adaptation to scavenging in facial and intestinal microbiomes,gastric acid secretion and immunity.Compared with the facial microbiome,the intestinal microbiome had a lower diversity,dominated by Fusobacteria and Clostridia.The phages and single invertebrate species Adineta vaga,which feeds on dead bacteria and protozoa,present in the gut suggest a possible alternative defense mechanism.Several genes involved in gastric acidic secretion(including ATP4B,SLC26A7 and SST)and immunity(including BCL6,STING,and TLRs) undergoing positive selection likely have essential roles in eliminating invasive pathogens and initiating an innate immune response.Taken together,this review presents the current research status of vultures and highlights the use of vultures as a model for exploring molecular adaptations of dietary specialization in birds.It also provides a theoretical basis for the study of the genetic mechanisms of vultures to scavenging,and contributes to the formulation of vulture conservation strategies.
基金Supported by the Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort through.Grant No.10/917001
文摘Objective:To describe clinical signs,pathology,diagnosis and treatment of Cape vultures in which Aspergillus fumigatus(A.fumigatus)and mixed species of bacteria were isolated.Methods:Six Cape vultures sourced from South Africa for exhibition at Al Ain Zoo developed illness manifesting as anorexia,dyspnea,polyuria and lethargy.Three vultures died manifesting"pneumonia-like syndrome".These three vultures were necropsied and gross lesions recorded,while organ tissues were collected for histopathology.Internal organs were swabbed for bacteriology and mycology.From live vultures,blood was collected for hematology and biochemistry,oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were collected for mycology and bacteriology.Results:A.fumigatus was isolated from the three dead vultures and two live ones that eventually survived.One of the dead vulture and two live vultures were co-infected with A.fumigatus and mixed species of bacteria that included Clostridium perfringens,Pseudomonas,Staphylococcus,Escherichia,Proteus,Enterococcus and Enterbacter.One of the Cape vulture and a Lappetfaced vulture,however,were free of Aspergillus or bacterial infections.At necropsy,intestinal hemorrhages were observed and the lungs were overtly congested with granulomas present on caudal air sac.Histopathologtcal examinations demonstrated granulomatous lesions that were infiltrated by mononuclear cells and giant cells.Conclusions:Aspergillosis is a persistent threat to captive birds and we recommend routine health assessments so that early diagnosis may prompt early treatment.It is likely that prompt prophylaxis by broad spectrum antibiotics and antifungals medication contributed to the survival of some of the vultures.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.61662042,62062049)Science and Technology Plan of Gansu Province(Nos.21JR7RA288,21JR7RE174).
文摘Improving the prediction accuracy of wind power is an effective means to reduce the impact of wind power on power grid.Therefore,we proposed an improved African vulture optimization algorithm(AVOA)to realize the prediction model of multi-objective optimization least squares support vector machine(LSSVM).Firstly,the original wind power time series was decomposed into a certain number of intrinsic modal components(IMFs)using variational modal decomposition(VMD).Secondly,random numbers in population initialization were replaced by Tent chaotic mapping,multi-objective LSSVM optimization was introduced by AVOA improved by elitist non-dominated sorting and crowding operator,and then each component was predicted.Finally,Tent multi-objective AVOA-LSSVM(TMOALSSVM)method was used to sum each component to obtain the final prediction result.The simulation results show that the improved AVOA based on Tent chaotic mapping,the improved non-dominated sorting algorithm with elite strategy,and the improved crowding operator are the optimal models for single-objective and multi-objective prediction.Among them,TMOALSSVM model has the smallest average error of stroke power values in four seasons,which are 0.0694,0.0545 and 0.0211,respectively.The average value of DS statistics in the four seasons is 0.9902,and the statistical value is the largest.The proposed model effectively predicts four seasons of wind power values on lateral and longitudinal precision,and faster and more accurately finds the optimal solution on the current solution space sets,which proves that the method has a certain scientific significance in the development of wind power prediction technology.
文摘The joint-bolt-African Vulture optimization algorithm(AVOA)model is proposed for the design of building connections to improve the stability of steel beam-to-column connections.For this algorithm,the type of steel is first determined,and the number of bolts needed by the corresponding steel type is referenced in Eurocode 3.Then,the bearing capacity of the joint can be calculated.The joint-bolt-AVOA model is established by substituting the bolt number required by the steel into the algorithm to obtain the optimal bolt number required while ensuring joint stability.The results show that the number of bolts required by the joint-bolt-AVOA model based on the stability of steel is lower than that calculated by Eurocode 3.Therefore,AVOA can effectively optimize the number of bolts needed in building connections and save resources.
基金the State Assignment,project 075-00347-19-00(Patterns of the spatiotemporal dynamics of meadow and forest ecosystems in mountainous areas(Russian Western and Central Caucasus)WWF's‘Save the Forest-Home of Raptors’project(2020-2022).
文摘Abiotic factors play an important role in species localisation,but biotic and anthropogenic predictors must also be considered in distribution modelling for models to be biologically meaningful.In this study,we formalised the biotic predictors of nesting sites for four threatened Caucasian vultures by including species distribution models(wild ungulates,nesting tree species)as biotic layers in the vulture Maxent models.Maxent was applied in the R dismo package and the best set of the model parameters were defined in the R ENMeval package.Performance metrics were continuous Boyce index,Akaike's information criterion,the area under receiver operating curve and true skill statistics.We also calculated and evaluated the null models.Kernel density estimation method was applied to assess the overlap of vulture ecological niches in the environmental space.The accessibility of anthropogenic food resources was estimated using the Path Distance measure that considers elevation gradient.The availability of pine forests(Scots Pine)and wild ungulates(Alpine Chamois and Caucasian Goat)contributed the most(29.6%and 34.3%)to Cinereous Vulture(Aegypius monachus)nesting site model.Wild ungulate distribution also contributed significantly(about 46%)to the Bearded Vulture(Gypaetus barbatus)model.This scavenger nests in the highlands of the Caucasus at a minimum distance of 5–10 km from anthropogenic facilities.In contrast,livestock as a food source was most important in colony distribution of Griffon Vulture(Gyps fulvus).The contribution of distances to settlements and agricultural facilities to the model was 45%.The optimal distance from Egyptian Vulture(Neophron percnopterus)nesting sites to settlements was only 3–10 km,to livestock facilities no more than 15 km with the factor contribution of about 57%.Excluding the wild ungulate availability,the ecological niches of studied vultures overlapped significantly.Despite similar foraging and nesting requirements,Caucasian vultures are not pronounced nesting and trophic competitors due to the abundance of nesting sites,anthropogenic food sources and successful niche sharing.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.31960277)the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Russian Foundation for Basic Research Cooperative Exchange Project(Grant Nos.32111530018,21-54-53031)+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Qinghai Province of China(Grant No.2018-ZJ-932Q)supported by“1000 Talent”programs of Qinghai Province。
文摘Background:Himalayan Griffons(Gyps himalayensis),large scavenging raptors widely distributed in Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau,have evolved a remarkable ability to feed on carcasses without suffering any adverse effects.The gut microbiome plays an important role in animal physiological and pathological processes,and has also been found to play a health protective role in the vulture adaptation to scavenging.However,the microbial taxonomic diversity(including nonculturable and culturable microbes),functions,and metabolites related to Himalayan Griffons have not been fully explored.Methods:In the present study,the 28 fecal samples of the Himalayan Griffons and 8 carrion samples were collected and sequenced using high-throughput 16 S rRNA gene sequencing methods to analyze the composition and functional structures of the microbiomes.Twelve fecal samples of the Himalayan Griffons were analyzed using untargeted Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy(LC-MS)to identify metabolites.We used different culture conditions to grow Himalayan Griffons gut microbes.Inhibitory effects of gut beneficial bacteria on 5 common pathogenic bacteria were also tested using the Oxford cup method.Results:According to the results of the culture-independent method,a high abundance of four major phyla in Himalayan Griffons were identified,including Fusobacteria,Firmicutes,Bacteroidetes,and Proteobacteria.The most abundant genera were Fusobacterium,followed by Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1,Cetobacterium,Epulopiscium,and Bacteroides.The predicted primary functional categories of the Himalayan Griffons'gut microbiome were associated with carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism,replication and repair,and membrane transport.LC-MS metabolomic analysis showed a total of 154 metabolites in all the fecal samples.Cultivation yielded 184 bacterial isolates with Escherichia coli,Enterococcus faecium,Enterococcus hirae,and Paeniclostridium sordellii as most common isolates.Moreover,7 potential beneficial gut bacteria isolated showed certain inhibition to 5 common pathogenic bacteria.Conclusions:Our findings broaden and deepen the understanding of Himalayan Griffons'gut microbiome,and highlighted the importance of gut microbiome-mediated adaptation to scavenging habits.In particular,our results highlighted the protective role of gut beneficial bacteria in the Himalayan Griffons against pathogenic bacteria that appear in rotten food resources.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30970340,31272291)
文摘In 2 April 2012 a birdwatcher,Mr.Hong Guo,found a strange white bird near a garbage dump in Wuqia County,(39°55′N,75°15′E),at an elevation of 2100m.This location is approximately 80km west of Kaxgar.After experts checked the photographs,it was identified as an
文摘The aim of the present study was to characterize a collection of Escherichia coli strains isolated from asymptomatic griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) during a reintroduction program in the southeast of Spain, in order to establish if griffon vulture could play a role in the spread of resistant or potentially pathogenic E. coli strains. For this purpose, 14 E. coli strains obtained from 10 griffon vulture were studied to establish their serotypes, phylogroups, virulencegene profiles and antimicrobial resistances. High heterogeneity was observed within the 14 strains isolated which belonged to three phylogroups (A, B1 and D), 8 serogroups (O2, O21, O29, O60, 073, O78, O103 and O141) and 13 different serotypes. Out of 34 genes screened, we have detected eight virulence genes that are typical of extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) (fimH, fimAvMT78, iroN, iucD, cvaC, iss, traT and tsh);however, none of the studied strains showed the ExPEC status. The 14 strains were also analyzed for the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and for antimicrobial resistances. None of the 14 strains were ESBL-producing E. coli, but high resistance-prevalences to ampicillin and cotrimoxazole were detected. To our knowledge, this is the first characterization of E. coli strains isolated from griffon vulture and although they did not show high virulencegene scores, they showed cotrimoxazole resistance.
基金funded by The Peregrine Fund's Neotropical Science and Student Education Program,a British Ornithologists'Union Small Ornithological Research Grant,a Neotropical Birding and Conservation(formerly known as Neotropical Bird Club)Conservation Award granted to D.Méndez in 2014,and two 2018 grants to D.Méndez,one from the Rufford Small Grants Foundation(24763-1)another from the International Foundation for Science(I-1-D-6156-1).
文摘Patterns of variation in the size of vulture foraging groups,and their ecological causes and consequences,remain litle explored despite strong links with the carrion recycling service that this key functional group provides.We documented the group size-frequency pattern of Andean con-dors Vultur gryphus gathered to feed on 42 equine carcasses experimentally placed in Bolivia,between 2012 and 2019,along an elevation range of 1,300-4,500 m asl.Based on the location(altitude and latitude)of the foraging groups,we examined the relationship between their size and species'population parameters(size and trend),habitat conditions,and livestock carcass availability and predictability.Condors utilized a high frequency(93%)of carcasses forming groups that ranged from 1 to 80 individuals(mean=25,median=18)and shaped a"lazy-J curve"typical pattern of size-frequency distribution whereby few groups(5,12%)were large(>55 individuals)and most(21,50%)were relatively small(<19 individuals).Group size related to altitude in that most larger groups formed at lower sites(below c.3,000 m asl),likely following an altitudinal gradient whereby larger groups are more likely to form around larger carcasses(i.e.,cattle),which are more likely to occur at lower elevations.Regardless of population size,group size could be an adaptive response of condors via local enhancement for improving individual scavenging efficiency.Many information gaps on this topic still exist,thus we provide a set of questions to address them,especially amidst the unrestricted impacts of human activities that condition vulture survival globally.
文摘The uncertainties associated with multi-area power systems comprising both thermal and distributed renewable generation(DRG)sources such as solar and wind necessitate the use of an efficient load frequency control(LFC)technique.Therefore,a hybrid version of two metaheuristic algorithms(arithmetic optimization and African vulture’s optimization algorithm)is developed.It is called the‘arithmetic optimized African vulture’s optimization algorithm(AOAVOA)’.This algorithm is used to tune a novel type-2 fuzzy-based proportional–derivative branched with dual degree-of-freedom proportional–integral–derivative controller for the LFC of a three-area hybrid deregulated power system.Thermal,electric vehicle(EV),and DRG sources(including a solar panel and a wind turbine system)are con-nected in area-1.Area-2 involves thermal and gas-generating units(GUs),while thermal and geothermal units are linked in area-3.Practical restrictions such as thermo-boiler dynamics,thermal-governor dead-band,and genera-tion rate constraints are also considered.The proposed LFC method is compared to other controllers and optimizers to demonstrate its superiority in rejecting step and random load disturbances.By functioning as energy storage ele-ments,EVs and DRG units can enhance dynamic responses during peak demand.As a result,the effect of the afore-mentioned units on dynamic reactions is also investigated.To validate its effectiveness,the closed-loop system is subjected to robust stability analysis and is compared to various existing control schemes from the literature.It is determined that the suggested AOAVOA improves fitness by 40.20%over the arithmetic optimizer(AO),while fre-quency regulation is improved by 4.55%over an AO-tuned type-2 fuzzy-based branched controller.
文摘Satellite-tracking technology has allowed scientists to make a quantum leap in the field of migration ecology. Nowadays, the basic description of migratory routes of many species of birds has been reported. However, the investigation of bird migration at individual level （i.e. repeatability in migratory routes and timing） still remains seldom explored. Here, we investigated repeated migratory trips of a trans-Saharan endangered migratory raptor, the Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus, tracked by GPS satellite telemetry. We compared between- and within-individual variation in migratory routes and timing in order to assess the degree of repeatability （or conversely, the flexibility） in migration. To this end, we analysed a dataset of 48 trips （23 springs and 25 autumns） recorded for six adult birds during 2007-2013. Our results showed consistent migration timing at the individual level, both in spring and autumn. Interestingly, there was a high degree of flexibility in the routes followed by the same individual in different years, probably due to variations in meteorological conditions. Contrary to expectations of a faster migration in spring than in autumn owing to a time-minimization strategy for breeding, birds spent less time in autumn migration （13 ± 2 days, range = 9-18 d） than in spring migration （19 ± 3 days, range = 13-26 d）, which can be explained by differences in environmental con- ditions en route. Egyptian vultures showed a consistent clockwise loop migration through western Africa, following more easterly routes in autumn than in spring. Finally, our results provide supporting evidence of low phenotypic plasticity in timing of migration （i.e. strong endogenous control of migration） and high flexibility in routes [Current Zoology 60 （5）： 642-652, 2014].
文摘Vultures provide invaluable ecosystem services and play an important role in ecosystem balancing. The number of native vultures in India has declined in the past. Acquiring present knowledge of their habitat spread is essential to manage and prevent such a decline. It is envisaged that ongoing climate crisis may further cause change in habitat suitability and impact the existing population. Therefore, this study in Central India—a vulture stronghold, is aimed at predicting habitat changes in the short and long term and present the data statistically and graphically by using Species Distribution Model. MaxEnt software was chosen for its advantages over other models, like using presence-only data and performing well with incomplete data, small sample sizes and gaps, etc. Global Climate Model ensemble(CCSM4, HadGEM2 AO and MIROC5), was used to get better prediction. Fourteen robust models(AUC 0.864 0.892) were developed using data from over 1000 locations of seven vulture species over two seasons together. Selected climatic and other environmental variables were used to predict the current habitat. Future prediction was based on climatic variables only. The most important variables influencing the distribution were precipitation(bio 15, bio 18, bio 19) and temperature(bio 3, bio 5). Forest and water bodies were the major influencers within land use-landcover in the current prediction. At finer scale, while extremely suitable habitat area decreased and highly suitable area increased over time, the total suitable area marginally increased in 2050 but decreased in 2070. For broader consideration, net loss in suitable area was 5% in 2050 and 7.17% in 2070(RCP4.5). Similarly, in the RCP8.5 this was 6% in 2050 and 7.3% in 2070. The data generated can be used in conservation planning and management and thus protecting the vultures from any future threat.
