Browse Articles

The effect of defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) spectacle lenses on astigmatism in children with myopia

European forestry systems mirror social-ecological diversity but closer-to-nature forest management and landscape planning are also required

Abstract New forest-related policies lead to conflicts among different forest benefits, actors and stakeholders. This requires multiple tools for forest management and landscape planning towards multifunctional landscapes. We first explore if the relative proportions of clearcutting (CC) and continuous cover forestry (CCF) as the two major contrasting traditional forest management systems in Europe can be explained by the complex net effect of biophysical, anthropogenic and social system variables. We then review mismatches between CC and CCF methods, and the tools required by new policies advocating multifunctional forest landscapes. The first three components of a multivariate analysis (PCA) explained 66% of the variation in the dataset. There were four main clusters of countries: (1) Nordic-Baltic boreal, (2) continental temperate lowland, (3) mountain, and (4) southern and southeastern Europe. The incidence of CCF in the 26 countries was correlated to both PC1 and PC2, and a multiple regression explained 53% of the variation in applying CCF. However, key mismatches between the application of CC and CCF and policy about multifunctional landscapes include difficulties to secure biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience. Therefore, new “closer-to-nature” forest management systems and triad landscape planning are also necessary.

Mitochondrial protective effects of ellagic acid in a rat model of sporadic Alzheimer’s disease induced by STZ

Virtual link between mothers and infants to improve maternal c-section experience: a non-randomized controlled pilot trial

Computational artificial intelligence modeling and optimization of nutrient removal in microalgae membrane bioreactors using ANN and RSM

Retraction Note: Knowledge graph driven medicine recommendation system using graph neural networks on longitudinal medical records

Effect of TiO2 doping on the structure and properties of lithium silicate-based glass-ceramics for potential dental applications

Abstract A series of glass samples with the nominal composition 65SiO 2 - (22.5-x) Li 2 O − 12.5Al 2 O 3 - xTiO 2 , where x varies as 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 mol%, were synthesized using the conventional melt-quenching technique. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was utilized to identify crucial thermal transitions, which informed the process of fabricating corresponding glass-ceramic derivatives. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of three primary crystalline phases in the glass-ceramics: lithium disilicate (Li₂Si 2 O 5 ), lithium aluminosilicate (LiAlSiO 4 ), and brookite (TiO 2 ). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) demonstrated that crystal growth increased in size and developed well-defined morphologies. Vickers microhardness testing indicated that TiO 2 -doped lithium silicate glasses and their glass-ceramic counterparts exhibit mechanical properties compatible with dental application requirements. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis revealed that increasing TiO 2 content (2.5–10 mol%) shifted thermal transitions to higher temperatures, indicating improved thermal stability and a stronger glass network. Higher TiO 2 also enhanced microhardness (5.02–5.93 GPa) and compressive strength (440–542 MPa), with further gains after heat treatment due to TiO 2 -induced crystallization of hard phases. Corresponding glass-ceramics showed increased hardness (5.51–7.27 GPa), compressive strength (492–583 MPa), and density (2.478–3.441 g/cm³), confirming the reinforcing and densifying effects of TiO 2 . Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results suggested that modifiers such as Li 2 O and TiO 2 disrupt the SiO 4 tetrahedral network by introducing non-bridging oxygens (NBOs) and weakening some bonds, thereby affecting network polymerization and structural rigidity. TiO₂ incorporation enhanced thermal stability, hardness, and compressive strength, with further gains after heat treatment due to TiO 2 -induced crystallization. FTIR analysis confirmed structural modifications promoting a stronger glass network. These improvements yield glass-ceramics with mechanical and thermal properties comparable to dental enamel, enhancing their suitability for restorative applications.

Hybrid quasi Z source multi output converter system with performance control and real time validation for photovoltaic microgrid

Abstract This work demonstrates a real-time validation of a photovoltaic-based hybrid quasi-Z source multi-output converter system for microgrid applications. The conventional microgrid system consists of several converter systems designed to meet ac and dc power load requirements. This configuration makes the overall system bulky, increases costs, and reduces efficiency. However, in the proposed system, a hybrid concept is used to get multiple ac and dc power simultaneously in a single-stage conversion, which is a common requirement in the microgrid system. In this proposed system, photovoltaic arrays are used as input power with the perturb and observe-based maximum power point tracking algorithm to get the maximum power utilization of the PV system. Moreover, the proposed system consists of three outputs that are designed with a closed-loop control. Closed-loop control uses a new control method developed with the utilization of duty cycle and modulation index as independent control variables to control the ac and dc outputs. A detailed mathematical analysis of the proposed system is carried out, and the effectiveness of the presented control strategy is validated with simulation. Additionally, Hardware-In-Loop (HIL) validation is performed for a Typhoon HIL-based real-time emulation platform to evaluate the proposed system.

Preparation and thermal properties study of HMX/RDX composites

Cannabis smoke extract disrupts trophoblast differentiation and causes mitochondrial dysfunction beyond the effects of Δ9-THC alone

Quantum informative analysis for weather of San Francisco

Impact of symptomatic comorbidities on heatstroke outcomes: A retrospective nationwide cohort study

Abstract With global temperatures rising due to climate change, heatstroke is emerging as a public health concern, particularly among older adults. The population of Japan is aging, with heatstroke causing frequent hospitalizations and deaths. This study investigated the impact of symptomatic comorbidities, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, and renal disorders, on prognosis of heatstroke. Data were collected from 2,373 adult patients diagnosed with heat-related illnesses during 2017–2021 across multiple centers in Japan. Among them, 608 patients (25.6%) had at least one comorbidity. Patients were compared based on the presence and number of comorbidities. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression and Kaplan–Meier survival curves after propensity-score matching, were performed to evaluate the relationship between comorbidities and in-hospital mortality. The results showed significantly higher in-hospital mortality among patients with comorbidities compared to those without (15.3% vs. 10.9%, p = 0.005). Although mortality was higher in those with multiple comorbidities, the difference was not statistically significant. Respiratory comorbidities emerged as a significant risk factor for heatstroke-related mortality (odds ratio = 2.93, 95% CI = 1.53 – 5.61). Survival analysis further demonstrated a lower survival probability in patients with comorbidities, suggesting that symptomatic comorbidities, particularly respiratory diseases, notably influenced heatstroke outcomes and require focused preventive strategies.

Assessment of the biological efficacy of gold Nannochloropsis oculata nano-extract against lithium-induced toxicity in rats

Abstract Chronic renal impairment can be caused by prolonged exposure to lithium (Li), which is considered a prototype medication for the treatment of bipolar disorders (BDs). The current study aimed to enhance the biological efficacy of biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) using an algal extract from Nannochloropsis oculata to mitigate the neurotoxicity and kidney damage induced by Li in rats. The kidney and brain tissues were analyzed using conventional biochemical tests to assess oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Electrophoretic techniques were used to examine native protein and isoenzyme patterns. Histopathological analysis was conducted on both tissues. mRNA expression levels of inflammatory markers (NF-κB, IL-6, and IL-1β) and antioxidant enzymes (SOD1, CAT, and GPx1) were also measured. The study found that the gold N. oculata nano-extract restored normal hematological and biochemical parameters that were affected by an injection of lithium carbonate (Li 2 CO 3 ). It improved antioxidant indicators, reduced inflammatory markers, and enhanced the antioxidant state of kidney and brain tissues. The gold nano-extract also reduced histopathological damage to the brain and kidney caused by Li 2 CO 3 . Furthermore, it alleviated the differences in electrophoretic patterns between the Li 2 CO 3 -injected group and the control group. The nano-extract also restored mRNA expression of inflammatory markers and antioxidant enzymes that were altered by Li 2 CO 3 intoxication. The study found that the gold N. oculata nano-extract reduced kidney and brain toxicity at various levels, including biochemical, histopathological, physiological, and molecular.

Moderating role of blood inflammatory markers in the vaginal microbiota-fibrinogen relationship in URSA-affected women

Modelling and metrics for optimal sizing of renewable power plants supplying green hydrogen generation systems

Abstract This paper presents a modular modelling approach for long-term analysis and design of renewable-powered hydrogen generation and storage facilities, encompassing both power generation and hydrogen system components. The proposed model can be used to integrate different sizes of solar and wind energy resources, different battery energy storage systems, a backup power source (if required), and main hydrogen system modules in power demand calculations. As a part of the paper’s novelty, the proposed modelling approach is modular and case study-free, which allows for generalisation to a variety of case studies. The expandability of the modelling method is strengthened by presenting a unified modelling framework for all modules required in modelling the system. As the second main paper’s contribution, a comprehensive set of performance metrics is proposed to support a multi-objective optimisation framework for optimal sizing of system components. Although the metrics focus on different technical and economic aspects, environmental issues can be covered using some metrics, like the grid share of total energy requirements for the hydrogen system. Both proposed modelling and sizing methods enable renewable power plant designers to evaluate different configurations and make informed decisions based on weighted performance criteria. The proposed model and sizing problem are implemented in a combined Editor and Simulink environment in MATLAB for a case study as a real feasibility study in the UK to operate a renewable-supplied hydrogen system, including a 1 MW electrolyser. Simulation results for the representative case study validate the model’s behaviour and its reliability through various primary output profiles, e.g., power profiles, and secondary outputs, e.g., met hydrogen demand and levelised cost of hydrogen. The proposed modelling and optimisation methods can easily be expanded for case studies with more technical data or different load demands, e.g., combined hydrogen, heat, and power.

Proton pump inhibitor use is not independently associated with colonic diverticulosis in an asymptomatic screening population

Abstract Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used medications that alter gut microbiota. Given the high prevalence of colonic diverticulosis and its increasing incidence in younger populations, we investigated whether PPI use is associated with diverticulosis prevalence in an asymptomatic screening population. This retrospective observational study analyzed data from 6,153 asymptomatic individuals undergoing colorectal cancer screening in Austria. Colonoscopies assessed diverticulosis presence, while PPI use was determined via structured medical history. Statistical analyses, including Poisson regression models and sensitivity analyses, were conducted to evaluate the association between PPI use and diverticulosis, with adjustments for confounding factors such as age, sex, BMI, comorbidities, and lifestyle characteristics. Among 6,153 participants, 37% were found to have diverticulosis, with a significantly higher prevalence observed in PPI users (48%) compared to non-users (36%, p  < 0.001). PPI users were generally older, had a higher BMI, and were more likely to have cardiometabolic comorbidities. Univariate analysis demonstrated a significant association between PPI use and diverticulosis (RR 1.326, 95% CI: 1.199–1.476, p  < 0.001). However, this association was not sustained in multivariable models adjusted for age, sex, BMI, comorbidities, and lifestyle factors, indicating that the observed relationship is likely attributable to confounding rather than a direct causal effect. In this large screening cohort, the initially observed association between PPI use and diverticulosis was likely attributable to confounding. These findings suggest that PPI use is not independently associated with diverticulosis.

Harmonic distortion reduction and dynamic stability in PMSG-CHBI wind energy systems via a dual optimization–prediction approach

Abstract Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generators (PMSGs) combined with Cascaded H-Bridge Inverters (CHBIs) are widely adopted in wind energy systems due to their high efficiency and superior power quality. However, even five-level CHBIs retain noticeable low-order harmonic components and output ripple under nonlinear PMSG wind conditions, indicating that further refinement of switching-angle control is required to maximize performance. This paper introduces a dual optimization–prediction framework to address these challenges. The proposed method integrates the Greater Cane Rat Algorithm (GCRA) for adaptive switching-angle optimization with a Visual Relational Spatio-Temporal Neural Network (VRSTNN) for predictive control under dynamic operating conditions. By jointly minimizing harmonic distortion and forecasting system responses under varying wind and load scenarios, the framework ensures high-quality voltage output and stable operation. Across 10 independent simulation runs, the system achieved a mean THD of 2.10% ± 0.04, voltage ripple of 1.6% ± 0.12, and response time improvement from 0.035 s to 0.012 s, confirming consistent performance with low variability. MATLAB results further demonstrate reduced power losses, improved efficiency, and faster transient stabilization compared with ANN, RERNN-LSE, RPOA-DTRN, GA–PSO, and CNN-based methods. These findings highlight the potential of the dual optimization–prediction strategy as a robust and scalable solution for next-generation intelligent PMSG–CHBI wind energy conversion systems.

Portfolio optimization for industrial cluster defossilization in the Port of Rotterdam

Repeated induced abortion among women seeking abortion care services in public health facilities in Harar town, Eastern Ethiopia

Rhodopsin molecular evolution from mouse to human phenylalanine 88 to leucine substitution enhances thermal stability and post-activation decay

Abstract The function of rod photoreceptors as dim light photon detectors depends critically on the molecular properties of their visual pigment, rhodopsin. The structure of rhodopsin has evolved under selective pressure to light conditions of different spectral composition and overall intensity. One notable example is the switch of mammalian species from nocturnal to diurnal environments. Comparison of the rhodopsins of the nocturnal mouse and the diurnal human reveals high sequence similarity, with only 18 distinct amino acids. Here, we examined the role of one of these, mouse phenylalanine (F) vs. human leucine (L) at position 88, in modulating the molecular properties of rhodopsin and the function of rods by generating an F88L rhodopsin knock-in mouse. Our detailed in vitro analysis of the physicochemical properties of this mutant F88L rhodopsin showed a higher conformational stability and more efficient chromophore regeneration compared to the WT mouse pigment. We also found that the decay of metarhodopsin II in the F88L mutant occurred significantly faster than in the WT. However, despite these molecular changes, the visual function of knock-in mutant mice carrying the F88L mutation was not significantly altered by this amino acid change. These findings demonstrate the role of the F88L evolutionary switch in enhancing the stability and regeneration of rhodopsin towards visual function in diurnal human rods over nocturnal mouse rods. Our results provide new insights into the molecular evolution of rhodopsin in vertebrates.