bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can current preclinical strategies for radiopharmaceutical development meet the needs of targeted alpha therapy?
Authors: Kleynhans Janke , Ebenhan Thomas , Cleeren Frederik , Sathekge Mike Machaba
Published: April 2024

Preclinical studies are essential for effectively evaluating TAT radiopharmaceuticals. Given the current suboptimal supply chain of these radionuclides, animal studies must be refined to produce the most translatable TAT agents with the greatest clinical potential. Vector design is pivotal, emphasizing harmonious physical and biological characteristics among the vector, target, and radionuclide. The scarcity of alpha-emitting radionuclides remains a significant consideration. Actinium-225 and lead-212 appear as the most readily available radionuclides at this stage. Available animal models for researchers encompass xenografts, allografts, and PDX (patient-derived xenograft) models. Emerging strategies for imaging alpha-emitters are also briefly explored. Ultimately, preclinical research must address two critical aspects: (1) offering valuable insights into balancing safety and efficacy, and (2) providing guidance on the optimal dosing of the TAT agent.
Long-term health-related quality of life and mental health in patients with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Mulas Olga , Efficace Fabio , Costa Alessandro , Baldi Thomas , Zerbini Filippo , Mantovani Daniela , Morelli Emanuela , Perra Daniela , La Nasa Giorgio , Caocci Giovanni
Published: April 2024

Immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) is a rare and potentially life-threatening disorder. Treatment advances have lowered morbidity rates, but past acute events can still cause long-term consequences, reducing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and determining cognitive impairment, anxiety, and depression. We aimed to investigate these aspects and the role of caplacizumab and rituximab: 39 patients were evaluated using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), the FACIT-Fatigue, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Functional Assessment in Cancer Therapy-Cognitive Function questionnaires. The median age at study inclusion was 50 years (IQR 38–60), and the median follow-up from diagnosis was 97 months (IQR 14–182); 82% of patients were female, and 36% had one or more recurrences. Caplacizumab was administered in 16 patients (41%), as well as rituximab. ITTP patients reported lower physical and mental HRQoL scores than the general population. No differences in physical or mental domains were observed between patients treated or not with caplacizumab, while those who received rituximab reported lower scores in mental health. Neurological impairment at diagnosis correlated with worse fatigue. The majority of patients (72%) reported anxiety or depression (82%). ITTP had a significant impact on the long-term cognitive function, fatigue, depression, and anxiety levels of patients, with a negative effect on their HRQoL. Our findings underscore the need to pay special attention to patients’ long-term physical and mental health, regardless of the medical treatments received.
Rheumatoid arthritis epidemiology: a nationwide study in Poland
Authors: Krajewska-Włodarczyk Magdalena , Szeląg Mateusz , Batko Bogdan , Żuber Zbigniew , Orleański Michał , Podwójcic Krzysztof , Sowiński Jakub , Jopek Jakub , Świderek Maria , Maluchnik Michał , Brzosko Marek , Śmiglewska Agata , Kwiatkowska Brygida
Published: April 2024

To assess the incidence and prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Poland for the period 2013–2021, total and dependent on gender, age, region and serological status. Information on reported National Health Fund (NHF) health services and reimbursed prescriptions were used, defining an RA patient as a person who had at least two visits in different quarters with ICD-10 code M05 or M06 and at the same time filled at least one reimbursed prescription for a drug whose active substance is methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide or was treated with biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMRDs) or targeted synthetic DMARDs (tsDMARDs) as part of a drug program financed by the National Health Fund. The nationwide standardised incidence rate of RA in 2021 was 29 persons per 100,000 population (18 per 100,000 population of seropositive vs. 11 per 100,000 population of seronegative RA). The prevalence of RA in Poland in 2021 was 689.0 people per 100,000 population, a total of 0.7% (1.1% in women and 0.3% in men). The incidence of seronegative RA was approximately 38%. The majority of new RA diagnoses were in the sixth and seventh decades of life, irrespective of patients’ gender. The results allow RA to be classified as a disease with a significant social impact. A trend of later onset of RA has been observed, which requires special consideration of the needs of patients over 55 years of age.
How modern treatments have modified the role of surgery in pediatric low-grade glioma
Authors: Boop Scott , Shimony Nir , Boop Frederick
Published: April 2024

Low-grade gliomas are the most common brain tumor of childhood, and complete resection offers a high likelihood of cure. However, in many instances, tumors may not be surgically accessible without substantial morbidity, particularly in regard to gliomas arising from the optic or hypothalamic regions, as well as the brainstem. When gross total resection is not feasible, alternative treatment strategies must be considered. While conventional chemotherapy and radiation therapy have long been the backbone of adjuvant therapy for low-grade glioma, emerging techniques and technologies are rapidly changing the landscape of care for patients with this disease. This article seeks to review the current and emerging modalities of treatment for pediatric low-grade glioma.
New strategy for intraoperative phonosurgical management of recurrent laryngeal nerve infiltrated by thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Peng Jieying , Zhu Guanghao , Gao Yingna , Song Xianmin , Yu Haojun , Huang Rushi , Chen Mengjie , Jiang Yafei , Sun Guodong , Li Meng , Zheng Hongliang , Wang Wei
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Treating an infiltration of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) by thyroid carcinoma remains a subject of ongoing debate. Therefore, this study aims to provide a novel strategy for intraoperative phenosurgical management of RLN infiltrated by thyroid carcinoma.

Methods

Forty-two patients with thyroid carcinoma infiltrating the RLN were recruited for this study and divided into three groups. Group A comprised six individuals with medullary thyroid cancer who underwent RLN resection and arytenoid adduction. Group B consisted of 29 differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC)patients who underwent RLN resection and ansa cervicalis (ACN)-to-RLN anastomosis. Group C included seven patients whose RLN was preserved.

Results

The videostroboscopic analysis and voice assessment collectively indicated substantial improvements in voice quality for patients in Groups A and B one year post-surgery. Additionally, the shaving technique maintained a normal or near-normal voice in Group C one year post-surgery.

Conclusion

The new intraoperative phonosurgical strategy is as follows: Resection of the affected RLN and arytenoid adduction is required in cases of medullary or anaplastic carcinoma, regardless of preoperative RLN function. Suppose RLN is found infiltrated by well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC) during surgery, and the RLN is preoperatively paralyzed, we recommend performing resection the involved RLN and ACN-to-RLN anastomosis immediately during surgery. If vocal folds exhibit normal mobility preoperatively, the MACIS scoring system is used to assess patient risk stratification. When the MACIS score > 6.99, resection of the involved RLN and immediate ACN-to-RLN anastomosis were performed. RLN preservation was limited to patients with MACIS scores ≤ 6.99.
Abrogating PDK4 activates autophagy-dependent ferroptosis in breast cancer via ASK1/JNK pathway
Authors: Shi Wenbiao , Wang Jian , Chen Jianbin , Jin Xiaoyan , Wang Yuanfan , Yang Linjun
Published: April 2024

Background

Targeting ferroptosis mediated by autophagy presents a novel therapeutic approach to breast cancer, a mortal neoplasm on the global scale. Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase isozyme 4 (PDK4) has been denoted as a determinant of breast cancer metabolism. The target of this study was to untangle the functional mechanism of PDK4 in ferroptosis dependent on autophagy in breast cancer.

Methods

RT-qPCR and western blotting examined PDK4 mRNA and protein levels in breast cancer cells. Immunofluorescence staining appraised light chain 3 (LC3) expression. Fe (2 +) assay estimated total iron level. Relevant assay kits and C11-BODIPY (591/581) staining evaluated lipid peroxidation level. DCFH-DA staining assayed intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) content. Western blotting analyzed the protein levels of autophagy, ferroptosis and apoptosis-signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway-associated proteins.

Results

PDK4 was highly expressed in breast cancer cells. Knockdown of PDK4 induced the autophagy of breast cancer cells and 3-methyladenine (3-MA), an autophagy inhibitor, countervailed the promoting role of PDK4 interference in ferroptosis in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, PDK4 knockdown activated ASK1/JNK pathway and ASK1 inhibitor (GS-4997) partially abrogated the impacts of PDK4 absence on the autophagy and ferroptosis in breast cancer cells.

Conclusion

To sum up, deficiency of PDK4 activated ASK1/JNK pathway to stimulate autophagy-dependent ferroptosis in breast cancer.
Prediction of monkeypox infection from clinical symptoms with adaptive artificial bee colony-based artificial neural network
Authors: Muhammed Kalo Hamdan Ahmed , Ekmekci Dursun
Published: April 2024

In 2022, the World Health Organization declared an outbreak of monkeypox, a viral zoonotic disease. With time, the number of infections with this disease began to increase in most countries. A human can contract monkeypox by direct contact with an infected human, or even by contact with animals. In this paper, a diagnostic model for early detection of monkeypox infection based on artificial intelligence methods is proposed. The proposed method is based on training the artificial neural network (ANN) with the adaptive artificial bee colony algorithm for the classification problem. In the study, the ABC algorithm was preferred instead of classical training algorithms for ANN because of its effectiveness in numerical optimization problem solutions. The ABC algorithm consists of food and limit parameters and three procedures: employed, onlooker and scout bee. In the algorithm standard, artificial onlooker bees are produced as much as the number of artificially employed bees and an equal number of limit values are assigned for all food sources. In the advanced adaptive design, different numbers of artificial onlooker bees are used in each cycle, and the limit numbers are updated. For effective exploitation, onlooker bees tend toward more successful solutions than the average fitness value of the solutions, and limit numbers are updated according to the fitness values of the solutions for efficient exploration. The performance of the proposed method was investigated on CEC 2019 test suites as examples of numerical optimization problems. Then, the system was trained and tested on a dataset representing the clinical symptoms of monkeypox infection. The dataset consists of 240 suspected cases, 120 of which are infected and 120 typical cases. The proposed model's results were compared with those of ten other machine learning models trained on the same dataset. The deep learning model achieved the best result with an accuracy of 75%. It was followed by the random forest model with an accuracy of 71.1%, while the proposed model came third with an accuracy of 71%.
Pre-eruptive intramural resorption in unerupted teeth: a cone-beam computed tomography evaluation of prevalence and related factors
Authors: Ngamsom Supak , Arayapisit Tawepong , Asavanamuang Phanit , Anurakwongsri Raksayam , Sonthinane Kittikarn , Kretapirom Kornkamol
Published: April 2024

Objective

Pre-eruptive intramural resorption (PEIR) is defined as an abnormal, well-circumscribed radiolucency within the coronal dentin of the tooth, which is often overlooked in plain radiographs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PEIR and its related factors using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods

CBCT images of 590 unerupted teeth were evaluated for the presence of PEIR, location of PEIR, number of lesions in the affected tooth, PEIR score, tooth angulation, tooth position, and pericoronal space. Binary logistic tests were used to analyze the association between the characteristics of PEIR and the patient’s demographic data and related factors.

Results

The tooth prevalence of PEIR was 13.6% among unerupted teeth. However, it was noteworthy that 19.2% of the unerupted teeth with PEIR were planned to be kept. PEIR was significantly associated with transverse (p = 0.020), inverted-angulated (p = 0.035), and centrally-positioned teeth (p = 0.043). The severity of PEIR was more pronounced in teeth with distal (p = 0.019), lingual (p = 0.023), or inverted-angulated (p = 0.040) positions, and in the absence of pericoronal space (p = 0.036).

Conclusion

PEIR should be suspected in transverse, inverted-angulated, centrally positioned unerupted teeth, particularly in molars, with no pericoronal space. Further monitoring through CBCT is recommended in such cases.

Clinical relevance

The management of unerupted teeth does not always involve surgical removal. Instead, they could be utilized for artificial eruption or tooth transplantation. The present study emphasizes the significance of early detection of PEIR. Clinical recommendations for screening PEIR in unerupted teeth are also proposed, which can be applied to routine plain radiographs.
Skeletal muscle dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a mitochondrial perspective and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Kubat Gokhan Burcin , Picone Pasquale
Published: April 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and fatal neuromuscular disease that results in the loss of motor neurons and severe skeletal muscle atrophy. The etiology of ALS is linked to skeletal muscle, which can activate a retrograde signaling cascade that destroys motor neurons. This is why satellite cells and mitochondria play a crucial role in the health and performance of skeletal muscles. This review presents current knowledge on the involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, skeletal muscle atrophy, muscle satellite cells, and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in ALS. It also discusses current therapeutic strategies, including exercise, drugs, stem cells, gene therapy, and the prospective use of mitochondrial transplantation as a viable therapeutic strategy.
The role of helplines in the anti-trafficking space: examining contacts to a major ‘modern slavery’ hotline
Authors: Cockbain Ella , Tompson Lisa
Published: April 2024

Although increasingly deployed worldwide, human trafficking hotlines are sorely under-researched. Situated within a complex systems framework, we conceptualise such helplines as both a product of and an influence on broader anti-trafficking ecosystems. Taking the UK as a case study, we undertook exploratory analysis of potential ‘modern slavery’ cases (n=3,613) reported to a major independent anti-trafficking helpline. We examined who seeks help, why and what follows. Contrary to stereotypes, relatively few cases involved sexual exploitation. Many case characteristics varied significantly by exploitation type. Reports about car washes and beauty services heavily influenced overall trends, likely reflecting intense public focus on these sites. Most cases involved adults. Although people self-reporting exploitation are the core target audience, only around 1 in 10 cases derived from self-reports (with higher rates for domestic servitude). We show how third-party reporters vary in their proximity to the people about whom they raise concerns – who themselves may or may not self-identify as victims and/or welcome intervention. Findings around onward action both show a whole-systems response to addressing complex needs and raise difficult tensions around risks of police involvement. Our key contributions include showing what can (and cannot) presently be assessed from such helpline data, proposing a future research agenda and providing a tangible illustration of what it means to theorise helplines as a part of a complex system of anti-trafficking activity. We highlight how their central goal of victim support can be enabled and constrained by wider policies, funding decisions and other structures.
UV-LEDs outperform actinics for standalone moth monitoring
Authors: van Deijk J. R. , Wever R. , van der Heide S. R. , Boers J. , van Deijl I. H. J. , van Grunsven R. H. A.
Published: April 2024

With the increasing awareness of biodiversity loss, the demand for standardized monitoring is also growing. Moths are a species rich group and can easily be monitored with traps. However the traps have to be portable to cover remote areas. The disadvantage of the commonly used Heath trap are heavy batteries and the unreliable actinic is not very energy efficient. Therefore we invented a new, portable LED trap which reliable switch on and is more energy efficient. In this study, we compared the number of attracted individuals and moth species between the standard Heath trap and a 2835 LED-strip. We also tested the aging effect after 1000 and 2000 h runtime to rule out monitoring the deterioration of the LED and compared the new 2835 strip with a brighter 5050 LED-strip. The 2835 LED attracts on average 2.3 times more moths compared to the Heath trap. This is partly caused by the energy inefficiency of the actinic whereby it only runs 2/3 of the night compared to the whole night with the 2835 LED, emphasizing energy efficiency as big advantage of LED. No difference in the total number of individuals was found after 1000 and 2000 h runtime compared to new LEDs. The 5050 LEDs attracted on average 2.0 more moths compared to the 2835 LEDs, suggesting this LED as alternative for relatively species poor regions.

Implications for insect conservation The LedTrap can be used everywhere within a standardised monitoring scheme or within moth related experiments, resulting in a better understanding of their trends and preferences, which contributes to their conservation.
Exact Transport Coefficients from the Inelastic Rough Maxwell Model of a Granular Gas
Authors: Santos Andrés , Kremer Gilberto M.
Published: April 2024

Granular gases demand models capable of capturing their distinct characteristics. The widely employed inelastic hard-sphere model (IHSM) introduces complexities that are compounded when incorporating realistic features like surface roughness and rotational degrees of freedom, resulting in the more intricate inelastic rough hard-sphere model (IRHSM). This paper focuses on the inelastic rough Maxwell model (IRMM), presenting a more tractable alternative to the IRHSM and enabling exact solutions. Building on the foundation of the inelastic Maxwell model (IMM) applied to granular gases, the IRMM extends the mathematical representation to encompass surface roughness and rotational degrees of freedom. The primary objective is to provide exact expressions for the Navier–Stokes–Fourier transport coefficients within the IRMM, including the shear and bulk viscosities, the thermal and diffusive heat conductivities, and the cooling-rate transport coefficient. In contrast to earlier approximations in the IRHSM, our study unveils inherent couplings, such as shear viscosity to spin viscosity and heat conductivities to counterparts associated with a torque-vorticity vector. These exact findings provide valuable insights into refining the Sonine approximation applied to the IRHSM, contributing to a deeper understanding of the transport properties in granular gases with realistic features.
Optical soliton solutions of complex Ginzburg–Landau equation with triple power law and modulation instability
Authors: Onder Ismail , Esen Handenur , Ozisik Muslum , Secer Aydin , Bayram Mustafa
Published: April 2024

This paper examines the complex Ginzburg Landau equation, which describes pulse propagation inside a fiber with the triple power law of self-phase modulation. Since the effect of parameter selection has become very important in relevant model studies recently, self-phase modulation has been added to the complex Ginzburg Landau equation, which has been studied in the literature, and it is aimed at investigating the analytical solutions of the presented equation. Adding the triple power law of the self-phase modulation parameter to the model, in addition to existing studies in the literature, emphasizes the innovative aspect and importance of the study. The first aim is to reveal bright and singular solitons using the new Kudryashov method. The new Kudryashov method is a technique that is frequently used in the literature, is effective for generating analytical solutions, provides ease of operation, and can be applied to a wide class of nonlinear partial differential equations. The second goal is to show that the obtained solutions have modulation stability. By using modulation instability analysis, the gain spectrum is formed for different parameter values. Graphic presentations support the findings. Moreover, bright and singular soliton portraits are demonstrated with 3D and 2D graphs. The novelty of the study lies in the fact that the relevant model has not been studied before with an effective method such as the new Kudryashov method, and the modulation instability has been studied for the first time.
The Truth in Social Media
Authors: Bernstein Andrés , Gomila Antoni
Published: April 2024

In the last chapter of In the beginning was the deed: realism and moralism in political argument, Williams raised the question of truthfulness in politics and warned that the media, particularly, television, and the market of communication in general, work in ways contrary to truthfulness -understood as the combination of the virtues of sincerity and accuracy. In this paper we would like to carry on Williams’ line of thinking in connection with the impact of the new social media platforms on politics. Where Williams focused on television, we will consider the impact of the internet public sphere. After reviewing how the digital social media encourages motivated reasoning in general, we propose to focus on two main phenomena derived from it: the rise of conspiracy theories and the moralization of politics. Conspiracy theories epitomize the risk of self-deception Williams was concerned to signal. On the other hand, the process of moralization of politics triggers sectarianism and hate for the “others”, the outgroup. Both phenomena are not exclusive of the internet sphere, but both are boosted by it, and entail a lack of interest in truth and truthfulness, and in this way they threaten the value of truth for democracy.
Optimization and validation of multiresidual extraction methods for pharmaceuticals in Soil, Lettuce, and Earthworms
Authors: Mravcová Ludmila , Amrichová Anna , Navrkalová Jitka , Hamplová Marie , Sedlář Marian , Gargošová Helena Zlámalová , Fučík Jan
Published: April 2024

The presence of human and veterinary pharmaceuticals (PhACs) in the environment poses potential risks. To comprehensively assess these risks, robust multiresidual analytical methods are essential for determining a broad spectrum of PhAC classes in various environmental compartments (soil, plants, and soil organisms). This study optimized extraction methods for analyzing over 40 PhACs from various matrices, including soil, lettuce, and earthworms. A four-step ultrasonic extraction method with varying extraction conditions and subsequent solid phase extraction was developed for soil samples. QuEChERS methods were optimized for extracting PhACs from lettuce and earthworm samples, addressing a literature gap in these less-studied matrices. The quantification of PhACs in soil, lettuce, and earthworm extracts was performed using a single LC–MS/MS method. Following thorough method validation, earthworms and lettuce were exposed to a mixture of 27 pharmaceuticals in a soil environment. The method validation results demonstrated the robustness of these methods for a broad spectrum of PhACs. Specifically, 29 out of 42 PhACs were extracted with an average efficiency > 50% and RSD < 30% from the soil; 40 out of 42 PhACs exhibited average efficiency > 50% and %RSD < 30% from the earthworms, while 39 out of 42 PhACs showed average efficiency > 50% and RSD < 30% from the lettuce. Exposure experiments confirmed the viability of these methods for quantifying a diverse range of PhACs in different environmental compartments. This study presents three thoroughly validated methods for determining more than 40 PhACs in diverse matrices, enabling a comprehensive assessment of PhAC dissemination in the environment.

Graphical Abstract
Multiplicative arithmetic functions and the generalized Ewens measure
Authors: Elboim Dor , Gorodetsky Ofir
Published: April 2024

Random integers, sampled uniformly from [1, x], share similarities with random permutations, sampled uniformly from Sn. These similarities include the Erdős–Kac theorem on the distribution of the number of prime factors of a random integer, and Billingsley’s theorem on the largest prime factors of a random integer. In this paper we extend this analogy to non-uniform distributions.

Given a multiplicative function α: ℕ → ℝ≥0, one may associate with it a measure on the integers in [1, x], where n is sampled with probability proportional to the value α(n). Analogously, given a sequence {θi}i≥1 of non-negative reals, one may associate with it a measure on Sn that assigns to a permutation a probability proportional to a product of weights over the cycles of the permutation. This measure is known as the generalized Ewens measure.

We study the case where the mean value of α over primes tends to some positive θ, as well as the weights α(p) ≈ (log p)γ. In both cases, we obtain results in the integer setting which are in agreement with those in the permutation setting.
Adeno-associated Virus-mediated Ezh2 Knockdown Reduced the Increment of Newborn Neurons Induced by Forebrain Ischemia in Gerbil Dentate Gyrus
Authors: Sehara Yoshihide , Hashimotodani Yuki , Watano Ryota , Ohba Kenji , Uchibori Ryosuke , Shimazaki Kuniko , Kawai Kensuke , Mizukami Hiroaki
Published: April 2024

It is established that neurogenesis of dentate gyrus is increased after ischemic insult, although the regulatory mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. In this study, we focused on Ezh2 which suppresses gene expression through catalyzing trimethylation of lysine 27 of histone 3. Male gerbils were injected with adeno-associated virus (AAV) carrying shRNA targeting to Ezh2 into right dentate gyrus 2 weeks prior to forebrain ischemia. One week after ischemia, animals were injected with thymidine analogue to label proliferating cells. Three weeks after ischemia, animals were killed for histological analysis. AAV-mediated knockdown of Ezh2 significantly decreased the ischemia-induced increment of proliferating cells, and the proliferated cells after ischemia showed significantly longer migration from subgranular zone (SGZ), compared to the control group. Furthermore, the number of neural stem cells in SGZ significantly decreased after ischemia with Ezh2 knockdown group. Of note, Ezh2 knockdown did not affect the number of proliferating cells or the migration from SGZ in the non-ischemic condition. Our data showed that, specifically after ischemia, Ezh2 knockdown shifted the balance between self-renewal and differentiation toward differentiation in adult dentate gyrus.
Stones that Tell Stories
Authors: Pereira Dolores
Published: April 2024

When a historical building, monument, or cultural heritage artifact is affected by a natural or anthropic event, the first reaction is to recover and restore to maintain our heritage for the next generations. If they are made of stone, some are completely destroyed, but it is often still possible to recognize the facts that made them a cultural item. In many cases, the marks of violent actions are visible on the stone, especially if the impacts came from a non-massive destructive weapon, such as rifle bullet marks or cannon marks from centuries ago, with a lower level of destruction than today. These marks are also part of our heritage and, as a reminder of the history of our cities and countries for generations, it is recommended that they be preserved as a testimony to avoid the repetition of unnecessary violence. This is the aim of the stones that tell stories.
The habitat utilization and environmental resilience of Homo heidelbergensis in Europe
Authors: Trájer Attila J.
Published: April 2024

The European populations of Homo heidelbergensis may have contributed to the genetic heritage of modern Eurasians. A better understanding of the possible effects of palaeoenvironmental alterations on the evolution of ancient humans can help to understand the origin of developed traits. For this purpose, the spatiotemporal alterations of physical factors were modelled in Europe for the period of 670–190 ka, covering the existence of Homo heidelbergensis in Europe. The factors included the following: paleoclimatic conditions, climatic suitability values of ancient humans, two prey species, and the European beech. Furthermore, the distribution and features of wood used for toolmaking were also investigated. Finally, changes in the relative mortality risk, the percentage of the body covered by clothing, and daily energy expenditure values in the coldest quarter of the year were modelled. The results suggest that H. heidelbergensis inhabited dominantly temperate regions in Europe where prey such as red deer were present. In the northern regions, European beech trees were abundant. When making wood tools, they preferred relatively light but not the strongest woods, which were readily available in the vicinity of the sites. Although hard and heavy woods were also occasionally used, at a European level, significant changes were observed in the relative mortality risk, the percentage of the body covered by clothing, and daily energy expenditure values during the period of 670–190 ka. However, substantial differences between archaeological sites in these values, indicating somewhat ecological variations, were not found during the studied period.
Examination of Drone Usage in Estimating Hardwood Plantations Structural Metrics
Authors: Corbin Tyler , Bataineh Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Planting hardwood trees on retired marginal agricultural land is one of the main strategies used to restore forested wetlands. Evaluating effectiveness of wetland restoration requires efficient monitoring to evaluate recovery trajectories and desired conditions. Recent advancements in unmanned aerial system (UAS) technologies have prompted wide-scale adoption of UAS platforms in providing a range of ecological data. In this study, we examined the use of UAS Structure from Motion (SfM) derived point clouds in estimating tree density, canopy height, and percent canopy cover for bottomland hardwood plantations within four wetland reserve easements. Using a local maxima approach for individual tree detection produced plantation level estimates with mean absolute errors of 150 trees per hectare, 0.5 m, and 18.4% for tree density, canopy height, and percent canopy cover, respectively. At the plot level, UAS-derived tree counts (r = 0.53, p < 0.01) and canopy height (r = 0.57, p < 0.01) were significantly correlated with ground-based estimates. We demonstrate that UAS-SfM is a viable method of assessing bottomland hardwood plantations for applications that require precision levels congruent with the mean absolute errors reported here. The accuracy of tree density estimates was reliant upon specific local maxima window parameters relative to stand conditions. Therefore, acquisition of leaf-off and leaf-on imagery may allow for better individual tree detection and subsequently more accurate tree density and other structural attributes.
The partnerships between hermit crabs and sea anemones: an overview
Authors: Karplus Ilan
Published: April 2024

The hermit crab-sea anemone (HCA) partnership is a common facultative mutualism. The anemone protects its host from predators such as cephalopods and shell crushing crabs by its stinging cells. The crab provides the anemone with a hard substrate and increased access to oxygenated water and food and in some cases with protection from predators. These partnerships are extremely diverse and complex. This overview addresses issues related to formation of the associations, the early history of these partnerships, placement of anemones on the hermit crab shell, intra and interspecific competition amongst hermit crabs over sea anemones, costs and benefits for crab and anemone from being associated and the evolution of these partnerships based on molecular phylogenies using nuclear and mitochondrial markers.
Control of Discrete Event Systems by Using Symbolic Transition Model: An Application to Power Grids
Authors: Özbaltan Mete
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a new symbolic modeling framework is proposed for the control of discrete event systems (discrete controller synthesis). Reactive infinite-state systems are generally dynamic systems with inputs and outputs. Modeling the outputs in existing symbolic modeling methods for reactive infinite-state systems has not been extensively discussed in the literature. It is crucial to realistically model the outputs and obtain reliable controllers. One of the main contributions and innovations in this study is the ability to symbolically model their output. In this direction, symbolic transition models are offered, where events are defined as guarded symbolic transitions. The framework considers input/output reactive infinite-state systems to satisfy safety and optimization objectives. Effective algorithms and safety control policies are offered to solve the safety control problem (i.e., satisfy the safety objective) for input/output infinite-state systems. Another contribution in this work provides optimization targets within a given cost function based on state transitions, without specifying the target states. The framework is then applied to power grids to demonstrate the effectiveness of the symbolic transition models and experimentally evaluate the new control algorithms. The results showed that the approach is very effective compared to other approaches found in the literature. The computation times required to achieve both safety and optimization objectives are obtained relatively quickly compared to other deterministic methods found in the literature.
Photocatalytic degradation of biological contaminant (E. coli) in drinking water under direct natural sunlight irradiation using incorporation of green synthesized TiO2, Fe2O3 nanoparticles
Authors: Abd Elmohsen Sohila A. , Daigham Ghadir E. , Mohmed Samah A. , Sidkey Nagwa M.
Published: April 2024

Globally, there is a severe problem of widespread water contamination. Adsorption and photocatalytic degradation are considered the most suitable methods for removing these water pollutants because of their simplicity, environmental friendliness, and capacity to generate high-quality water. By a completely green route, in this recent study, the fungus Aspergillus tubingensis was able to synthesize TiO2 and Fe2O3 NPs with an average diameter of 28.0 and 65 nm, respectively. The smallest NPs diameters were produced when the precursor salt concentrations were 10−3 M and 10−2 M for TiO2 and Fe2O3, respectively, at pH 3 and an incubation time of 72 h. The biosynthesized NPs were characterized using DLS, TEM, EDX, and VSM. They were then applied in the preparation of titanium-iron nanocomposites with different ratios (1:1, 1:2, and 2:1 (w/w)) and characterized by FTIR and XRD. In this study, Escherichia coli (E. coli) was photo-catalytically inactivated using a TiO2–Fe2O3 nanocomposite as a photocatalyst in the presence of direct sunlight. This material’s photocatalytic performance was evaluated in comparison to that of TiO2 and Fe2O3 NPs. After 60 min of exposure to direct sunlight, the cell death was estimated as 97.97%, 99.32%, 89.06%, 30.96%, and 25.14% in the presence of TF-1, TF-2, TF-3, TiO2, and Fe2O3, respectively. Under direct natural sunlight irradiation for 60 min, TiO2 and Fe2O3 nanoparticles alone have the least impact on E. coli, whereas TF-2 nanocomposite has a higher level of photocatalytic bacterial inactivation competency than TF-1 and TF-3 nanocomposites. No significant toxicity has been observed for TF-2-treated water samples in the toxicity assessment.
Dietary Modification Combined with Nutrition Education and Counseling for Metabolic Comorbidities in Multiple Sclerosis: Implications for Clinical Practice and Research
Authors: Allogmanny Shoroog , Probst Yasmine
Published: April 2024

Purpose of Review

Metabolic comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia are common to multiple sclerosis (MS) and are associated with negative outcomes of the disease. Dietary intervention has the potential to improve MS co-morbidities; thus, it is a high priority for people living with MS to self-manage their disease. The present review aimed to summarize the recent evidence on the impacts of combining dietary modification with nutrition education and counseling on managing metabolic comorbidity markers in MS.

Recent Findings

Evidence suggests important roles for tailored dietary change strategies and nutrition education and counseling in managing metabolic comorbidities for MS. There is also indirect evidence suggesting a relationship between dietary fiber, the gut microbiome, and improved metabolic markers in MS, highlighting the need for more research in this area. For people living with MS, addressing both barriers and facilitators to dietary changes through behavior change techniques can help them achieve sustainable and tailored dietary behavior changes. This will support person-centered care, ultimately improving metabolic comorbidity outcomes.

Metabolic comorbidities in MS are considered modifiable diseases that can be prevented and managed by changes in dietary behavior. However, the impact of targeted dietary interventions on mitigating MS-related metabolic comorbidities remains inadequately explored. Therefore, this review has provided insights into recommendations to inform future best practices in MS. Further well-designed studies based on tailored dietary strategies applying behavior change theories are needed to address the underlying determinants of dietary practice in this population.
Rapid identification of Ips sexdentatus (Boerner, 1766) (Curculionidae) from adults and frass with real-time PCR based on probe technology
Authors: Rizzo D. , Zubieta C. G. , Carli M. , Marrucci A. , Ranaldi C. , Palmigiano B. , Bartolini L. , Pennacchio F. , Bracalini M. , Garonna A. P. , Panzavolta T. , Moriconi M.
Published: April 2024

A molecular tool has been developed for the molecular identification of Ips sexdentatus (Börner 1776) (Coleoptera Curculionidae Scolytidae), the well-known six thooted bark beetle, widely distributed in Eurasia, where it infests several species of the genus Pinus and occasionally a few conifer species of the genera Abies, Larix and Picea. The developed test can be useful both in countries where I. sexdentatus is handled as a quarantine species and, to greater reason, in Europe to discriminate biological traces of this commonly found beetle from those produced by regulated pests. The protocol is based on real-time PCR with TaqMan probe technology and has been developed on whole insect bodies (adults) as well as on artificial frass contaminated by DNA of the beetle. The molecular test developed here for both direct and indirect identification of I. sexdentatus has proven effective in terms of analytical specificity, analytical sensitivity, reliability and reproducibility. The recommended protocol is a practical diagnostic tool allowing a rapid identification of the six toothed bark beetle in the presence of any biological trace of other xylophagous pests collected at points of entry during phytosanitary surveys.
Analysis of activity rhythm and behavior pattern for plateau pika in degraded alpine meadow
Authors: Su Xiaoxue , Li Xilai , Sun Huafang , Song Zihan
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a behavior observation method for plateau pika (Ochotona curzoniae) in degraded alpine meadow in the Source Zone of the Yellow River (SZYR) on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau based on continuous monitoring videos to observe its activity rhythm. The video surveillance cameras are installed facing toward degraded alpine meadow in the SZYR and run from March 2021 to February 2022 to record time allocation of plateau pika behavior (i.e., digging, foraging, guarding, moving and other behaviors) and its daily, monthly, and seasonal activity rhythm. The results indicate that: (1) The most active ground activity time is between 10:00 and 16:00, meanwhile it is inactive at night, which proves it plateau pika is diurnal animals. (2) Digging and foraging are frequently occurring behaviors among its daily activities, which occurs from 9:00 to 12:00 and 16:00. (3) Compare to other season, winter sees relatively frequent occurrences of digging and foraging according to the seasonal analysis results. (4) From annual perspective, digging and foraging accounted for 66.13% of plateau pika activity, while guarding accounted for 13.35%, moving accounted for 11.64%, and other behaviors accounted for 8.88%. There is a significant difference in the frequency of each behavior between the two groups (P < 0.05). The behavior observation method using video surveillance camera contributes to behavioral ecology information of plateau pika.
The study of the natural frequency evolution and numerical simulation of retrogressive landslides
Authors: Zhao Liuyuan , Wu Zhixiang , Shi Anchi , Xie Mowen , Du Yan , Wu Simiao
Published: April 2024

A retrogressive landslide is influenced by the cyclical fluctuations in reservoir water levels is considered a common natural disaster. Tension cracks are important indicators for assessing landslide status in the case of retrogressive landslides. Displacement monitoring is a commonly used method and provides an intuitive reflection of the landslide deformation; however, it does not directly indicate the depth of the tension cracks. Based on the principles of vibrational dynamics, a retrogressive landslide is proposed to be initially classified as a single-mass spring oscillator model before the development of cracks. Following the development of tension cracks, the model can be classified as a double-mass spring oscillator model. The model patterns are verified through numerical simulations using ABAQUS. Based on the numerical simulations, with an increase in the number of reservoir water cycle fluctuations, the displacement and stress of the landslide exhibit periodic growth. However, during displacement growth, the tension cracks do not necessarily increase. As the tension cracks deepen, the landslide transitions from a single-mass spring oscillator model to a double-mass spring oscillator model, with the appearance of a second-order natural frequency. Moreover, as the tension cracks deepen, the numerical values of the natural frequency change. The maximum change in first-order natural frequency is 3.5 Hz. The maximum change in second-order natural frequency is 4.5 Hz. The variation in the natural frequency can reflect the depth of development of the landslide's tension cracks and, consequently, indicate changes in the stability state of the landslide.
A Deep Learning Approach for Digital Color Reconstruction of Van Gogh’s Paintings Using Unpaired Areas Under the Frame
Authors: Parvathaneni Tirumala Sai Ram , Pisarenco Maxim , Onvlee Hans
Published: April 2024

Factors such as dirt accumulation, aging of paint materials and chemical reactions with the surrounding atmosphere lead to alteration and degradation of paintings. As a result, colors in the paintings can change. Van Gogh’s paintings are no exception to this process, and virtual reconstruction of the original colors is a very challenging problem. In this work we propose a novel approach for color reconstruction that does not require any pre-existing digital reconstructions, physical reproductions or artificial aging experiments, and relies purely on the data within the painting. We exploit the fact that areas of the painting located under the frame are typically well-preserved (mainly due to the protection from light exposure and dirt accumulation offered by the frame) and contain colors which are relatively close to their original look. Inspired by the recent advances in machine learning techniques for unpaired image-to-image translation, a practical weakly supervised approach for digital color reconstruction is formulated. Moreover, its performance is demonstrated for paintings by Vincent van Gogh. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a method for color reconstruction that relies purely on the data available within one painting is described in literature.
Millet-Based Food Products: An Overview
Authors: Siroha Anil Kumar , Bangar Sneh Punia
Published: April 2024

Purpose of Review

Climate change has the potential to induce increased aridity in soils, high temperatures, and reduced water resources, consequently exerting a direct impact on food security. This scenario can lead to heightened food prices and a decreased availability of food resources. Therefore, there is a need to search for non-traditional food crops that may be grown in adverse environmental conditions. Millets, possessing nutritional value comparable to traditional crops, can be cultivated in challenging conditions, making them versatile for various food applications. Because they are gluten-free, millet products are beneficial for persons with celiac disease.

Recent Findings

Millets find applications in probiotics, prebiotics, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Millets are widely used to prepare bakery products, i.e., bread, biscuits, and cookies. Products formulated from millet had some drawbacks related to taste, texture, and anti-nutrient factors. Compared to wheat, millet products are the least acceptable. So, to improve its acceptability, products are prepared by blending millet flour with wheat flour.

The development of various products and their consumer acceptability is discussed in this article. Millet crops may be a good substitute for conventional crops for food applications. This review explores the manifold food applications of millets.
High potential: lightweight optimised structural design of car bodies for railway vehicles with alternative drive systems
Authors: Schmauder Nicolai , Malzacher Gregor , Fritsche Michael , Burkat Marcel , König Jens , Boese Ben
Published: April 2024

Climate change and related goals and measures require a shift away from fossil fuels as an energy source. One solution for non-electrified lines for rail transport is the use of alternative drive technologies such as battery or hydrogen drive instead of diesel units. In order to use these efficiently in rail vehicles, it is imperative to make adjustments to the body structure. Existing car body structures must be adapted to integrate the space-intensive and heavy additional equipment components. Within the framework of the project AnoWaAS those with the highest lightweight construction potential are methodically identified from a large number of different derivatives of car body designs. The high influence of a force flow-compliant design on the lightweight potential is analysed in depth. Possible adapted construction methods for further exploitation of the lightweight potential are shown and analysed with regard to their potential. With the help of trapezoidal windows and the structural integration of equipment enclosures, it is possible to reduce the structural mass of a car body by more than 20%.