bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter- and Intrapopulation Variation in Bottlenose Dolphin Mating Strategies
Authors: Brightwell Kristin , Gibson Quincy
Published: September 2023

Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiopsspp.) live in complex societies with high fission-fusion dynamics and exhibit a polygynandrous mating system in which both sexes mate with multiple partners. The benefits of polygynandry vary between the sexes; males likely increase their reproductive success by maximizing the number of mating partners, whereas females may reduce infanticide risk and/or increase the genetic quality of offspring by mating with multiple males. Socio-ecological theory states that mating strategies are dictated by the distribution of females and the ability of males to monopolize them. However, the tactics that males use to achieve reproductive success vary within and across populations. Although some male bottlenose dolphins appear to use a solitary approach to gain mating access, males in several populations demonstrate a relatively rare mating tactic: cooperative mate guarding within alliances. Male alliances generally consist of a pair or trio of males that work together to sequester a fertile female. However, nested or multilevel alliances have been documented in two populations to date (i.e., Shark Bay, Australia, and Jacksonville, Florida). The complexity of male alliances may vary in response to a suite of specific ecological, demographic, and/or morphological variables that promote male-male cooperation and reduce intrasexual competition. In this chapter, we review population-specific examples of male bottlenose dolphin mating tactics and examine several hypotheses that may explain inter- and intrapopulation variation in alliance complexity. We also explore the sociosexual behavior and potential countertactics used by females.
Sex and Sexual Strategies in Deep-Diving Risso’s Dolphins
Authors: Hartman Karin L. , van der Harst Pieter A. , Vilela Raul
Published: September 2023

Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus) in the Azores maintain a sexually stratified community with males forming stable clusters, whereas females tend to associate in temporally stable units when calving and nursing. Large relative testes size indicates a mating system based on sperm competition. Small sexual size dimorphism and long interbirth intervals may facilitate male cooperation. We describe mating tactics observed in a resident population of Risso’s dolphins based on data collected over 8 consecutive years. We distinguished groups by sex and age class and analyzed peaceful and aggressive behaviors using an ethogram. Males displayed a variety of mating tactics described in cetaceans, spanning display, contest, endurance, and scramble competition, in the assumed context of sperm competition. We observed rare behaviors including male care for neonates but also intense aggression toward newborn calves, leading to possible infanticide. Females’ mating tactics included evasive behaviors and signal discrimination. We hypothesize that male mating tactics of Risso’s dolphins are related to age class. For females, the polygynandrous mating system may serve to improve fertility, reduce sexual harassment, and reduce the risk of infanticide. Adult females seem to prefer older over younger male groups, suggesting that some level of female mate choice exists in this species.
Sociosexual Behavior of Nocturnally Foraging Dusky and Spinner Dolphins
Authors: Markowitz Tim M. , Markowitz Wendy J. , Würsig Bernd , Orbach Dara N.
Published: September 2023

Dusky and spinner dolphins are small-bodied odontocetes that show variation in socioecology across their range. New Zealand dusky dolphins and Hawaiian spinner dolphins of deep nearshore waters feed nocturnally upon prey species associated with the deep scattering layer, leaving the daytime free for rest and social interaction, often close to shore. In this chapter, we investigate relationships between foraging ecology, diel activity patterns, and sociosexual activities of dusky and spinner dolphins in breeding and nonbreeding contexts. We review similarities and differences between dusky and spinner dolphins related to mating strategies and tactics, socioecology, and evolution. We examine the effects of breeding season and variation in male testis mass and female receptivity on mating behavior. We further explore the influence of sociosexual behavior on female social grouping and calf rearing.
Life History Parameters, Sociobiology, and Reproductive Strategies of Pilot Whales
Authors: Betty Emma L. , Zwamborn Elizabeth M. J. , Weyn Mieke , Luck Emma , Alves Filipe
Published: September 2023

Two species of pilot whales are globally distributed, the long-finned (Globicephala melas) in cold-temperate waters and the short-finned (G. macrorhynchus) in tropical and warm-temperate latitudes. Two subspecies of the long-finned pilot whale are recognized, G. m. melas in the North Atlantic and G. m. edwardii in the Southern Hemisphere. In addition, three types have been proposed in short-finned pilot whales. In general, it is assumed that pilot whales live in matrilineal societies composed of stable units/pods displaying bisexual natal philopatry, but inter- and intraspecific variabilities in the sociality of these units have been described worldwide. Moreover, there is inter- and intraspecific heterogeneity in life history and reproductive parameters, which supports geographic variation. To investigate life history parameters, sociobiology, and reproductive strategies within different populations of pilot whales, we reviewed the current literature and compiled novel data. We cover populations from both hemispheres and combine life history characteristics from strandings with field-/behavioral-based information such as long-term photographic-identification, social analysis with molecular sexing, and drone technology. This chapter contributes to improving our knowledge of the life history parameters between sexes and populations, interactions between animals of different sexes within units, social structures, and reproductive strategies in pilot whales. We explore pilot whales’ sexual group dynamics and social system and discuss whether they are strictly matrilineal in comparison with other “matrilineal” species.
Sex in Killer Whales: Behavior, Exogamy, and the Evolution of Sexual Strategies in the Ocean’s Apex Predator
Authors: Wright Brianna M. , Stredulinsky Eva H. , Ford John K. B.
Published: September 2023

We present the current available knowledge about sexual behavior and mating systems in the killer whale,Orcinus orca, focusing primarily on the most well-studied ecotype, the Residents of the eastern North Pacific. Resident killer whales display lifetime natal philopatry of both sexes and thus form stable social groupings organized along maternal lines. Inbreeding is minimized via exogamous mating during multigroup aggregations that are diffusely seasonal. Male reproductive success in Residents is highly skewed, likely as a result of female mate choice or possibly intrasexual contest competition (or both), with only the largest and oldest males siring offspring. Female choice for males with large body and appendage sizes likely explains why killer whales as a species have evolved a high degree of sexual dimorphism. Scarring patterns and dorsal fin injuries indicate that breeding-aged males may occasionally engage in aggressive intrasexual competition to secure mates. Young male Residents appear to practice courtship behaviors by engaging in sociosexual play with other males. Coercive mating or mate-guarding in this species has not been observed and appears to be unlikely. Relative testes size, penis length, and penis tip morphology indicate that some sperm competition presumably exists in killer whales and likely co-evolved with female polyandry. Thus, both pre- and postcopulatory sexual selection may occur simultaneously in killer whales, and this species probably has a polygynandrous mating system in which both males and females can breed with multiple partners. Genetic pedigree studies of killer whale ecotypes besides Residents are needed to provide currently lacking but valuable information about mating patterns in other populations.
Beaked Whale Sexual Dimorphism, Mating Strategies, and Diversification
Authors: Alves Filipe , Mesnick Sarah L. , Rosso Massimiliano , Pitman Robert L.
Published: September 2023

Beaked whales (Ziphiidae), with 24 currently recognized species, are arguably the least known large animals on the planet, despite being widespread and at times abundant.Mesoplodon, with 16 currently recognized species, is by far the most speciose cetacean genus. Recent technological and taxonomic advances, long-term photographic-identification studies, and historical whaling data have allowed new insights into their social and mating strategies and how these may have driven diversification within the family. In most beaked whales, only adult males have exposed teeth—a single “tusk” erupts from each lower jaw and is used in contests to determine access to breeding females. How forcefully males of different species engage conspecifics varies widely based mainly on differences in tooth size/placement and jaw structure. We compiled data on key dimorphic traits including beak modification, tooth size and location, and prevalence of scarring in adults, for all beaked whales. More detailed information is given for the four best-studied species—northern bottlenose whale and Baird’s, Cuvier’s, and Blainville’s beaked whales. We then compared these traits with what is known about their social organization and reproductive anatomy to make inferences about mating strategies. More aggressive species tend to occur in small groups with only one dominant adult male present and have small testes relative to body size, suggesting that male reproductive success is largely determined by precopulatory contest competition and female defense polygyny. Less aggressive species tend to occur (at least at times) in larger, mixed-sex groups with multiple adult males present, and females may mate with multiple males, which favors postcopulatory sperm competition and polygynandry. We further discuss how conflicting pressures arising from males using their beaks for both feeding and fighting could have sparked an adaptive radiation in tooth development and beak morphology among beaked whales, especially withinMesoplodon, which would have had implications for male-male competition, social structure, sexual strategies, and, perhaps ultimately, evolutionary divergence and speciation within this group.
Sexual Behavior and Anatomy in Porpoises
Authors: Webber Marc A. , Keener William , Wahlberg Magnus , Elliser Cindy R. , MacIver Katrina , Ortiz Sara Torres , Jakobsen Freja , Hamel Héloïse , Rieger Alexandra , Siebert Ursula , Dunn Holly , Anderson David , Hall Anna M. , Birdsall Caitlin , Pielmeier Kate , Paiu Romulus-Marian , Boege Tobin Deborah D. , Orbach Dara N.
Published: September 2023

Among the taxonomic family of porpoises (Phocoenidae), mating behavior in nature has been described in detail only for the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). We review this species’ unusual mating habits based on a study in San Francisco Bay, California, USA, and present new data from across its range in the North Pacific, North Atlantic, Black Sea, and managed care. Results confirm the male’s unique laterality oriented solely to the female’s left side as contact occurred both in nature and managed care. The male’s high-energy sexual approach to the female led to splashy aerial behavior at the surface in nature. Drone footage provided observations of subsurface mating behavior, including evidence of male–male sexual interactions and a male calf interacting sexually with its mother. Harbor porpoise reproductive anatomy is also presented, with new comparative information on the vaquita (Phocoena sinus). The harbor porpoise’s lateralized behavior and anatomy (i.e., long asymmetric penis, large testes size, convoluted asymmetric female reproductive tract) may have coevolved. We note gaps in knowledge, suitable platforms for future investigations (drones, bridges, boats, and coastal cliffs), and what is known about mating behavior in other porpoise species, including hybridization. We conclude with conservation implications for porpoises and encourage researchers to recognize and report mating behavior as baseline data valuable for establishing marine conservation areas.
Genetic Tools to Investigate the Consequences of Sex
Authors: Gerber Livia , Krützen Michael
Published: September 2023

The primary purpose of sex is reproduction. However, because not all mating events result in fertilization and only a small number of species provide biparental care to their young, successfully reproducing individuals can rarely be identified from behavioral observations alone. Genetic tools permit reliable identification of an individual’s parents and thus of successfully reproducing individuals, because each parent passes on half of their genetic material to their offspring. In cetaceans, genetic tools are required to identify a female’s already weaned offspring and to detect successfully reproducing males due to the absence of paternal care. To date, relatively few studies have investigated variables linked to reproductive success in this taxon, owed to the difficulty of sampling entire cetacean populations. We summarize currently known factors that are linked to successful reproduction in whales, porpoises, and dolphins, as well as in terrestrial mammals with comparable life histories that give birth to single young.
Reproductive Tactics in Baleen Whales
Authors: Eichenberger Franca , Garland Ellen C. , Carroll Emma L.
Published: September 2023

While a variety of reproductive tactics are readily witnessed in odontocetes, such behaviors can be far more elusive in baleen whales and in some cases are yet to be observed. This leads researchers to study the reproductive behaviors in mysticetes using a variety of research methods which have improved greatly in recent years. Genetics and genomics tools can provide valuable information on maternity, paternity, age, diversity, and kinship, while acoustic tools can provide new insights into the function of sexual displays such as song. In this chapter, we explore what is known about reproductive strategies and tactics of baleen whales, with a particular focus on the comparatively well-studied right whales (Eubalaena spp.) and humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae). Finally, we showcase that by integrating multiple data types, we can explore the interactions between anatomy, physiology, reproductive success, age, population dynamics, and acoustic displays to better understand the mating systems of baleen whales.
Bowhead Whale Reproductive Strategies
Authors: Koski William R. , George J. Craig , Würsig Bernd
Published: September 2023

Bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) have adopted growth and reproductive strategies to survive in a challenging environment where no other mysticete whales reside. They grow slowly, become sexually mature at around 25 years (later than other mammals), and do not give birth until they have sufficient energy reserves for the best possible chance of survival of the calf to weaning and long-term survival of the mother. To compensate for late maturity and long inter-birth intervals, some seem to have the capability to live to 200+ years of age, making them the longest-lived mammal known to date. Bowhead whale males have large testes per body size, and it is hypothesized that the basic polygynandrous system of females and males mating with multiple partners per estrous cycle allows for males to not compete violently against each other. Instead, they use sperm competition by volume of sperm for enhanced capability to father as many offspring as possible. Also, as in right whales (Eubalaena spp.), the length of the penis is proportionally longer than those of balaenopterids. Details of sperm volume, potential variabilities of sperm viabilities, and actual paternities are unknown, but some patterns can be inferred from the closely related right whales with similar morphologies.
Skulls, Teeth, and Sex
Authors: Loch Carolina , Fordyce R. Ewan , Werth Alexander
Published: September 2023

Males and females of a species may differ in external appearance or other features. Sexual dimorphism often relates to mating behavior, via male-male competition for access to females (through direct fighting and/or indirect display), female choice of mates, or sexual conflict. In many mammals, skulls and teeth often display sexual dimorphism. Cetaceans show extraordinary variation in their dentition, and because teeth are often preserved, the evolutionary origins of these morphological novelties can be tracked in the fossil record. Sexual dimorphism has been proposed in several fossil cetaceans (i.e., pakicetids, protocetids, fossil beaked whales) and some odontocetes (notably Odobenocetops), and mainly inferred from differences in tooth size, skull dimensions, and thickening of skull bones. Within modern taxa, unusual differences in the dentition between the sexes have been observed in deep-diving beaked whales and arctic narwhals, the unicorns of the sea. Mandibular tusks in beaked whales are unusual because they erupt only in males, erupt only at sexual maturity, and protrude outside the mouth rather than projecting into the oral cavity. In beaked whales, the tusk-like dentition seems to have a minimal role in feeding, and functions as weapons or displays for intrasexual (e.g., male-male combat) and intersexual (e.g., female mate choice) competition, and possibly for female harassment by males seeking to mate. In narwhals, the long and spiralled left tusk commonly only erupts in males and is presumed to play a prominent role in male-male fighting or displays for female mate choice. Except for narwhals and beaked whales, sexual dimorphism in skull and dental structures is not prominent in cetaceans. However, we still do not know whether functional aspects such as enamel structure and thickness, mechanical properties, and chemical composition of dental tissues may vary between males and females.
Cetacean Evolution: Copulatory and Birthing Consequences of Pelvic and Hindlimb Reduction
Authors: Cooper Lisa Noelle , Suydam Robert , Thewissen J. G. M.
Published: September 2023

The earliest fossil cetaceans (archaeocetes) dramatically shifted the shape and articulation of the pelvis and hindlimbs during the land-to-sea transition. Archaeocetes were mostly semi-aquatic “walking whales” that used powerful hindlimbs to walk on land and swim to reach new aquatic sources of food. However, skeletons of the latest diverging lineages of archaeocetes, the basilosaurids, showed that the pelvis initially lost articulation with the sacrum, and hindlimbs were reduced and encased within the body wall. Consequently, basilosaurids were no longer able to bear their weight on land and probably had a different mating strategy compared to the other archaeocetes. Basilosaurid mating behaviors were probably consistent with those of modern cetaceans, including lateral- and ventral-facing copulation. Moreover, a pelvic girdle that was no longer constrained by vertebral and limb attachments likely freed fetal development from size constraints at birth, allowing for the birth of large fetuses. This study reports new data showing growth of the pelvis with age in modern bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) and their implications for left-right asymmetry and sex difference in pelvic dimensions among modern cetaceans. Reproductive structures present in modern cetaceans and artiodactyls were probably present in archaeocetes, including pelvic attachment of muscles associated with erection and mobility of the penis, the ischiocavernosus, in males and the clitoris of females. Within females, transverse folds along the vaginal canal are present in some terrestrial artiodactyls, modern cetaceans, and probably archaeocetes. Vaginal folds were probably exapted to assist in successful aquatic copulation in all fossil and modern cetaceans as they may protect some sperm from the lethal effects of sea water. Taken together, shifts in the pelvic girdle of cetaceans occurred over 40 million years ago and probably required changes in mating behaviors that were consistent with those seen in modern cetaceans.
Sexual Anatomy of Female Cetaceans: Art and Science Contribute Insights into Functionality
Authors: Orbach Dara N. , Gorter Uko , Mesnick Sarah
Published: September 2023

The relationship between sexual selection and the diversity and rapid evolution of male genitalia has been well-documented across many animal taxa, while the morphological variability of female genitalia has received comparatively little attention. Female whales, dolphins, and porpoises possess unusual flaps, folds, and blind sacs in their vaginas, which vary among taxa and may serve several functions. We review the relationship between form and function of these unusual vaginal structures in cetaceans and discuss evidence that supports or refutes various functional hypotheses. A compilation of three-dimensional vaginal endocast models, contemporary high-resolution photographs of dissected reproductive tracts, and detailed anatomical illustrations ranging over 175 years are used to highlight the diversity of forms and fill in gaps in taxonomic knowledge. We discuss the complementary nature of anatomical illustrations and modern analytical and visual tools and how they can help us better understand the evolution of such unusual morphological structures. We identify opportunities for future studies in cetacean genital evolution and discuss the insights they may provide into mating strategies of cetaceans.
Interspecific Comparison of Reproductive Strategies
Authors: Chivers Susan J. , Danil Kerri
Published: September 2023

Knowledge of cetacean life history, morphology, and social behavior provides clues to the niche-specific adaptations that have evolved to maximize reproductive fitness. An essential component of a species’ life history is mating, particularly the sex-specific mating strategies that have evolved. Mating strategies vary within and among species reflecting phylogenetic constraints and the interplay of selective forces molding each species’ adaptations. The suite of cetacean mating strategies that have evolved ultimately determines how a species’ mating system operates. Thus, mating systems provide a unifying framework to compare and contrast cetacean strategies for reproduction and mating. Theory predicts that the degree of sexual size dimorphism (SSD) and the relative testes size of mammalian species will be good indicators of their mating system. However, interspecific and intraspecific variability in SSD and relative testes size reveal unique tradeoffs made in response to evolutionary pressures and ecological processes that result in exceptions to the theoretical predictions. In this chapter, we review current knowledge of cetacean reproductive biology and how that information furthers our understanding of their mating systems.
Non-conceptive Sexual Behavior in Cetaceans: Comparison of Form and Function
Authors: Ham Jackson R. , Lilley Malin K. , Manitzas Hill Heather M.
Published: September 2023

Non-conceptive sexual behavior (NCSB) is phylogenetically widespread, having been documented in 35 of the 87 extant cetacean species, but function and form of NCSB have not been studied in comparative manner. Many cetacean species engage in NCSB across a wide variety of settings and contexts (e.g., play, sexual, affiliative). NCSB includes both social and non-social sexual behaviors, such as non-social masturbation on the environment or social same-sex thrusting toward a conspecific, but importantly, none of the behavior described as NCSB affords reproduction. While these two general categories encompass all sexual actions, the behaviors are diverse depending on species, social structure, and sex of the individual being observed. Social sexual behavior presumably has individual or social benefits. This chapter organizes what is known about NCSB in cetaceans by summarizing NCSB repertoires from peer-reviewed literature and discussing proposed functions (e.g., practice for reproduction, attracting opposite-sex mates, reducing the reproductive opportunities of same-sex conspecifics, reinforcing dominance relationships, alliance formation, reconciliation, and social tension reduction). Further, the form or behavioral repertoire, the sex of the individuals engaging in NCSB, the environment observed in, and whether NCSB was present or absent in general are noted from each of the articles reviewed. Overall, NCSB behavior observed across species shares similar elements (e.g., thrusting, lateral presentations) in both Mysticeti and Odontoceti. NCSB tends to be more prevalent among sexually immature compared to sexually mature individuals. Additionally, NCSB is more prevalent between male conspecifics compared to females when animals engage in same-sex NCSB. Interspecific NCSB has also been reported for a number of species. While most reports come from toothed whales, the limited observations of baleen whales have also found that many species engage in NCSB, making it likely that NCSB is included in the behavioral repertoire of most cetacean species. NCSB likely aids in forming and maintaining social relations and/or in the development of sexual repertoires in cetaceans, not unlike what has been proposed for primates. We hope this chapter sparks interest in comparative studies of NCSB and sheds light on the similarities of NCSB across species.
Introduction
Authors: Deng Xiujie
Published: September 2023

Particle accelerators as photon sources are advanced tools in investigating the structure and dynamical properties of matter, and have enabled advances in science and technology for more than half a century. The present workhorses of these sources are storage ring-based synchrotron radiation facilities [1–3] and linear accelerator-based free-electron lasers (FELs) [4–7]. These two kinds of sources deliver light with high repetition rate and high peak brilliance and power, respectively. Some applications, however, do need high average power and high photon flux. Kilowatt extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light sources, for example, are urgently needed by the semiconductor industry for EUV lithography [8]. Another example is that to realize high energy resolution in synchrotron-based angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), which is highly desired by fundamental condensed matter physics research, we need the initial radiation photon flux before monochromator is high enough. To obtain high average power and high photon flux, a high peak power or a high repetition rate alone is not sufficient. We need both of them simultaneously.
Condylar constrained and rotating hinged implants in revision knee arthroplasty show similar survivorship and clinical outcome: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Stroobant Lenka , de Taeye Thijmen , Byttebier Paul , Van Onsem Stefaan , Jacobs Ewoud , Burssens Arne , Victor Jan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) ligament instability and bone defects might require more constraint implants such as a condylar constrained knee (CCK) or rotating hinged knee (RHK). When both implants are suitable, the choice remains controversial. The purpose of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to compare the survivorship and clinical outcome between CCK and RHK in revision TKA.

Methods

Systematic literature research was performed. Studies analysing the clinical outcome and/or survivorship of CCK and/or RHK in revision TKA were included. Clinical outcomes included the Knee Society Score, both clinical (KSCS) and functional (KSFS), range of motion (ROM) and reoperations. Survival was defined as the time free from removal or revision of the femoral and/or tibial component.

Results

A total of 40 articles analysing 4.555 knees were included. Survival did not differ between RHK and CCK implants (p = 0.6058), with, respectively, 91.6% and 89.8% survival after 5 years. Postoperative KSCS and KSFS were, respectively, 79.2 (SD 10.7) and 61.1 (SD 21.8) for the CCK group. Similar scores were noted for the RHK group with a KSCS of 80.2 (SD 14.1) and KSFS of 58.5 (SD 17.3). Postoperative ROM was similar for CCK (105.3°, SD 17.1°) and RHK patients (104.1°, SD 16.9°).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis revealed that both survivorship and clinical outcome are similar for CCK and RHK patients for whom both designs are technically suitable and indicated.

Level of evidence

IV.
A framework for flexible and reconfigurable vision inspection systems
Authors: Lupi Francesco , Biancalana Michele , Rossi Andrea , Lanzetta Michele
Published: September 2023

Reconfiguration activities remain a significant challenge for automated Vision Inspection Systems (VIS), which are characterized by hardware rigidity and time-consuming software programming tasks. This work contributes to overcoming the current gap in VIS reconfigurability by proposing a novel framework based on the design of Flexible Vision Inspection Systems (FVIS), enabling a Reconfiguration Support System (RSS). FVIS is achieved using reprogrammable hardware components that allow for easy setup based on software commands. The RSS facilitates offline software programming by extracting parameters from real images, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) data, and rendered images using Automatic Feature Recognition (AFR). The RSS offers a user-friendly interface that guides non-expert users through the reconfiguration process for new part types, eliminating the need for low-level coding. The proposed framework has been practically validated during a 4-year collaboration with a global leading automotive half shaft manufacturer. A fully automated FVIS and the related RSS have been designed following the proposed framework and are currently implemented in 7 plants of GKN global automotive supplier, checking 60 defect types on thousands of parts per day, covering more than 200 individual part types and 12 part families.
Left–Right Reversal Recurrently Evolved Regardless of Diaphanous-Related Formin Gene Duplication or Loss in Snails
Authors: Noda Takeshi , Satoh Noriyuki , Gittenberger Edmund , Asami Takahiro
Published: September 2023

Bilateria exhibit whole-body handedness in internal structure. This left–right polarity is evolutionarily conserved with virtually no reversed extant lineage, except in molluscan Gastropoda. Phylogenetically independent snail groups contain both clockwise-coiled (dextral) and counterclockwise-coiled (sinistral) taxa that are reversed from each other in bilateral handedness as well as in coiling direction. Within freshwater Hygrophila,Lymnaeawith derived dextrality havediaphanous related formin(diaph) gene duplicates, while basal sinistral groups possess onediaphgene. In terrestrial Stylommatophora, dextralBradybaenaalso havediaphduplicates. Defective maternal expression of one of those duplicates gives rise to sinistral hatchlings inLymnaeaand handedness-mixed broods inBradybaena, through polarity change in spiral cleavage of embryos. These findings led to the hypothesis thatdiaphduplication was crucial for the evolution of dextrality by reversal. The present study discovered thatdiaphduplication independently occurred four times and its duplicate became lost twice in gastropods. The dextrality ofBradybaenarepresents the ancestral handedness conserved across gastropods, unlike the derived dextrality ofLymnaea. Sinistral lineages recurrently evolved by reversal regardless of whetherdiaphhad been duplicated. Amongst the sevenformingene subfamilies,diaphhas most thoroughly been conserved across eukaryotes of the 14 metazoan phyla and choanoflagellate. Severe embryonic mortalities resulting from insufficient expression of the duplicate in both ofBradybaenaandLymnaeaalso support thatdiaphduplicates bare general roles for cytoskeletal dynamics other than controlling spiralian handedness. Our study rules out the possibility thatdiaphduplication or loss played a primary role for reversal evolution.
The Effect of Non‐Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease on Weight Loss and Resolution of Obesity‐Related Disorders After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Abdalla Thaer S. A. , Giannou Anastasios D. , Abdalla Ahmed S. A. , Izbicki Jakob R. , Dupreé Anna , Mann Oliver , Wolter Stefan
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients undergoing bariatric surgery have a high incidence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the effect of NAFLD or non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) on the weight loss and resolution of obesity‐related disorders is a matter of debate.

Methods

In this study, we compare the long‐term outcomes after bariatric with the presence of NAFLD in the liver biopsy at the time of surgery.

Results

The follow‐up was available for 226 out of 288 patients. The mean follow‐up time was 24.9 (± 13.6) months. The baseline histology showed that 112 patients (38.9%) had no NASH, 70 (24.3%) were borderline, and 106 (36.8%) had NASH. At follow‐up, the mean BMI dropped from (52 ± 10.2) to (36.6 ± 8) kg/m 2. Excess weight loss (EWL) was similar in all NAFLD groups. Type 2 diabetes mellitus dropped from 35.7 to 11.4%, hypertension from 65.6 to 36.7%, hyperlipidemia from 62.3 to 33%, and obstructive sleep apnea from 37.5 to 14.9%. Only hyperlipidemia was significantly associated with NASH compared to the groups with no NASH or borderline NASH (p value = 0.002 and p value = 0.04, respectively) during the first two years of follow‐up.

Conclusion

The beneficial effects of bariatric surgery are evident across all patients with NAFLD. Patients with NASH have comparable outcomes regarding weight loss and resolution of obesity‐related comorbidities.
Potential value of mitochondrial regulatory pathways in the clinical application of clear cell renal cell carcinoma: a machine learning-based study
Authors: Qi Xiaochen , Ge Yangyang , Yang Ao , Liu Yuanxin , Wang Qifei , Wu Guangzhen
Published: September 2023

Background

Renal clear cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common cancer in urinary system with increasing incidence. At present, targeted therapy and immunotherapy are the main therapeutic programs in clinical therapy. To develop novel drugs and provide new ideas for clinical therapy, the identification of potential ccRCC subtypes and potential target genes or pathways has become a current research focus.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the underlying mechanisms of mitochondrial function in ccRCC. This regulatory pathway is closely related to tumor development and metastasis in ccRCC patients, and their abnormal changes may affect the prognosis of cancer patients. Therefore, we decided to construct a prognostic model of ccRCC patients based on mitochondrial regulatory genes, aiming to provide new methods and ideas for clinical therapy.

Result

The 5-year survival prediction model based on iterative LASSO reached 0.746, and the cox model based on coxph reached C-index = 0.77, integrated c/D AUC = 0.61, and integrated brier score = 0.14. The rsf model based on randomForestSRC was built with C-index = 0.82, integrated c/D AUC = 0.69, and integrated brier score = 0.11. The results show that mitochondrial regulatory pathway is a potential target pathway for clinical therapy of ccRCC, which can provide guidelines for clinical targeted therapy, immunotherapy and other first-line therapy.
Realistic sensor simulations for the digital twin
Authors: Ubezio Barnaba , Ergun Serkan , Zangl Hubert
Published: September 2023

Digital twins use actual sensor data to replicate the current state of a plant in a virtual model. They can be used to evaluate the current state, predict future behavior, and thus allow to refine control or optimize operation, enable predictive maintenance as well as detection of anomalies and failures.

The model of a digital twin includes models of the components, behaviors and dynamics of a system. With the ability to simulate real scenarios, such models can therefore also be used before a plant is actually implemented, e.g., to predict the actual performance, identify potential issues for the implementation and to develop optimal operation strategy and algorithms. Furthermore, interfaces may be defined, implemented, and tested with such models allowing fast and easy commissioning of the physical implementation.

Accurate digital twins therefore also need to include realistic sensor models, considering adverse effects that impact their output signals. The proposed work presents approaches for accurate sensor simulations allowing researchers and industries to assess sensor performance, optimize algorithms, and evaluate system-level integration. We address Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensors and time-of-flight cameras as examples for far-field sensors and capacitive sensors as an example for near-field sensors. The approaches can be transferred to other sensors, e.g., ultrasound sensors, LiDAR sensors and inductive or magnetic sensors so that a wide range of industrial sensors can be covered.

The proposed simulations are benchmarked with different tests, including real-world experiments and compared with the corresponding real sensors.
Generic uniqueness of optimal transportation networks
Authors: Caldini Gianmarco , Marchese Andrea , Steinbrüchel Simone
Published: September 2023

We prove that for the generic boundary, in the sense of Baire categories, there exists a unique minimizer of the associated optimal branched transportation problem.
Characteristics of paraspinal muscle degeneration in patients with adult degenerative scoliosis
Authors: Zhou Mengmeng , Liu Linyan , Chen Ziyu , Ma Boyuan , Fu Xuanhao , Cheng Yuelin , Kan Shunli , Liu Chengjiang , Zhao Xinyan , Feng Sa , Jiang Zehua , Zhu Rusen
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS) is a 3D deformity that greatly affects the quality of life of patients and is closely related to the quality of paraspinal muscles (PSMs), but the specific degenerative characteristics have not been described.

Methods

This study included ADS patients who were first diagnosed in our hospital from 2018 to 2022. Muscle volume (MV) and fat infiltration (FI) of PSM were measured by 3D reconstruction, and spinal parameters were assessed by X-ray. The values of convex side (CV) and concave side (CC) were compared.

Results

Fifty patients were enrolled with a mean age of 64.1 ± 5.8 years old. There were significant differences in MV, FI, and Cobb angle between male and female groups. The MV of MF and PS on the CC was significantly larger than that on the CV. In the apex and the segments above the apex, the FI of the MF on the CC is greater than the CV, and in the CV of the segment below the apex, the FI of the MF is greater than the CC. Besides, there was a significant positive correlation between the FI and Cobb angle in the MF of the CC-CV.

Conclusion

There were significant differences in the MV and FI of PSM on both sides of the spine in ADS patients. It was determined that the PSM of ADS showed different degrees of degeneration in different levels of the lumbar spine and were positively correlated with Cobb angle.
Explaining improvement in diabetes distress: a longitudinal analysis of the predictive relevance of resilience and acceptance in people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Lehmann Gina , Ziebell Philipp , Schmitt Andreas , Kulzer Bernhard , Hermanns Norbert , Ehrmann Dominic
Published: September 2023

Aims

To analyze if midterm improvement in diabetes distress can be explained by resilience, diabetes acceptance, and patient characteristics.

Methods

N = 179 adults with type 1 diabetes were enrolled during their stay at a tertiary diabetes center (monocentric enrolment) and followed up over three months in a prospective, observational study (‘DIA-LINK1’). Improvement in diabetes distress was assessed as reduction in the Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale score from baseline to follow-up. Resilience (Resilience Scale-13), acceptance (Diabetes Acceptance Scale), and patient characteristics were analyzed as predictors of improvement in diabetes distress using hierarchical multiple regression.

Results

Greater reductions in diabetes distress were significantly explained by lower diabetes acceptance at baseline (β = −0.34, p < 0.01), while resilience, diabetes complications, and other person-related variables were not significantly related to changes in diabetes distress (all p > 0.05). When change in diabetes acceptance from baseline to follow-up was added to the model, improved diabetes distress was explained by increasing diabetes acceptance (β = 0.41, p < 0.01) and a shorter duration of diabetes (β = -0.18, p = 0.03), while baseline diabetes acceptance was no longer significantly associated (β = −0.14, p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Diabetes acceptance is inversely related to diabetes distress, and increasing acceptance explained greater improvement in diabetes distress. These findings suggest that increasing diabetes acceptance may facilitate the reduction of diabetes distress. Treatment approaches targeting acceptance might be useful for the mental healthcare of people with type 1 diabetes and clinically elevated diabetes distress.
Early surgery versus conservative treatment in patients with traumatic intracerebral hematoma: a CENTER-TBI study
Authors: van Erp Inge A. M. , van Essen Thomas A. , Lingsma Hester , Pisica Dana , Singh Ranjit D. , van Dijck Jeroen T. J. M. , Volovici Victor , Kolias Angelos , Peppel Lianne D. , Heijenbrok-Kal Majanka , Ribbers Gerard M. , Menon David K. , Hutchinson Peter , Depreitere Bart , Steyerberg Ewout W. , Maas Andrew I. R. , de Ruiter Godard C. W. , Peul Wilco C. ,   the CENTER-TBI Investigators, Participants
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Evidence regarding the effect of surgery in traumatic intracerebral hematoma (t-ICH) is limited and relies on the STITCH(Trauma) trial. This study is aimed at comparing the effectiveness of early surgery to conservative treatment in patients with a t-ICH.

Methods

In a prospective cohort, we included patients with a large t-ICH (< 48 h of injury). Primary outcome was the Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE) at 6 months, analyzed with multivariable proportional odds logistic regression. Subgroups included injury severity and isolated vs. non-isolated t-ICH.

Results

A total of 367 patients with a large t-ICH were included, of whom 160 received early surgery and 207 received conservative treatment. Patients receiving early surgery were younger (median age 54 vs. 58 years) and more severely injured (median Glasgow Coma Scale 7 vs. 10) compared to those treated conservatively. In the overall cohort, early surgery was not associated with better functional outcome (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.1, (95% CI, 0.6–1.7)) compared to conservative treatment. Early surgery was associated with better outcome for patients with moderate TBI and isolated t-ICH (AOR 1.5 (95% CI, 1.1–2.0); P value for interaction 0.71, and AOR 1.8 (95% CI, 1.3–2.5); P value for interaction 0.004). Conversely, in mild TBI and those with a smaller t-ICH (< 33 cc), conservative treatment was associated with better outcome (AOR 0.6 (95% CI, 0.4–0.9); P value for interaction 0.71, and AOR 0.8 (95% CI, 0.5–1.0); P value for interaction 0.32).

Conclusions

Early surgery in t-ICH might benefit those with moderate TBI and isolated t-ICH, comparable with results of the STITCH(Trauma) trial.
Fast Claisen condensation reaction optimization in a continuous flow reactor
Authors: Michałek Stanisław , Powała Antoni , Gurba-Bryśkiewicz Lidia , Piórkowska Natalia , Olejkowska Patrycja , Yamani Abdellah , Ochal Zbigniew , Dubiel Krzysztof , Wieczorek Maciej
Published: September 2023

In our previous study, we described the batch synthesis of CPL304110, an innovative pan-FGFR inhibitor. Herein, we transferred the Claisen condensation reaction, one of the synthesis steps to a continuous flow reactor. A simple solvent switch from ethanol to tetrahydrofuran shortened the original reaction time from 20 h to 10 min. With the use of the design of experiment method and program Statistica®, we optimized reaction parameters and increased the reaction yields from 73 to 84% with greatly shortened reaction times (20 h vs. 2 min), improved productivity (74.4 g h−1), and increased space–time yield (3720 kg h−1 m−3).

Graphical abstract
Long-term trends of local bird populations based on monitoring schemes: are they suitable for justifying management measures?
Authors: Hernández-Navarro Antonio J. , Robledano Francisco , Jiménez-Franco María V. , Royle J. Andrew , Calvo José F.
Published: September 2023

Local biodiversity monitoring is important to assess the effects of global change, but also to evaluate the performance of landscape and wildlife protection, since large-scale assessments may buffer local fluctuations, rare species tend to be underrepresented, and management actions are usually implemented on local scales. We estimated population trends of 58 bird species using open-population N-mixture models based on count data in two localities in southeastern Spain, which have been collected according to a citizen science monitoring program (SACRE, Monitoring Common Breeding Birds in Spain) over 21 and 15 years, respectively. We performed different abundance models for each species and study area, accounting for imperfect detection of individuals in replicated counts. After selecting the best models for each species and study area, empirical Bayes methods were used for estimating abundances, which allowed us to calculate population growth rates (λ) and finally population trends. We also compared the two local population trends and related them with national and European trends, and species functional traits (phenological status, dietary, and habitat specialization characteristics). Our results showed increasing trends for most species, but a weak correlation between populations of the same species from both study areas. In general, local population trends were consistent with the trends observed at national and continental scales, although contrasting patterns exist for several species, mainly with increasing local trends and decreasing Spanish and European trends. Moreover, we found no evidence of a relationship between population trends and species traits. We conclude that using open-population N-mixture models is an appropriate method to estimate population trends, and that citizen science-based monitoring schemes can be a source of data for such analyses. This modeling approach can help managers to assess the effectiveness of their actions at the local level in the context of global change.
The New Zealand landslide dam database, v1.0
Authors: Morgenstern Regine , Wolter Andrea , Cox Simon C. , Lukovic Biljana , Bain Dan , Sirohi Akansha , Bruce Zane , Jones Katie , Rosser Brenda , Townsend Dougal , Massey Chris
Published: September 2023

Landslide dams, forming when a landslide blocks a watercourse, are significant components of slope-river systems. Dams can fail suddenly and catastrophically, threatening downstream populations and structures. So it is important to understand where they could form, how long they persist in the landscape, and the extent of downstream inundation once they fail. To investigate dam formation, longevity, and stability effectively in Aotearoa New Zealand, we present version 1.0 of the New Zealand Landslide Dam Database (NZLDD). The database includes compilation, mapping, and/or remapping of 1036 dams, including those generated by the 2016 Kaikōura Earthquake. A representative subset of 265 dams was selected to analyse dam stability and breaching in detail (ongoing work). The database architecture, description of datasets included, attribute definitions, and some summary statistics are presented here. Many dams in the database have formed in greywacke bedrock terrain, by earthquake-triggered rock avalanches, falls, and slides. Most are small (Dam Type I—small dam that does not reach opposite valley side), and have since failed and no longer impede or impound water. The NZLDD represents a significant increase in catalogued landslide dams—almost doubling the existing number of known and studied dams worldwide.