Browse Articles

Machine learning approaches for enhanced estimation of reference evapotranspiration (ETo): a comparative evaluation

Abstract Accurate estimation of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is critical for effective water resource management, particularly in regions with limited meteorological data. However, existing empirical and deep learning models often require extensive data or complex modeling, limiting their practical application in data-scarce environments. This study innovatively applies static (non-sequential) machine learning models K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Decision Tree (DT), and Random Forest (RF) justified by temporal dependency analysis, to estimate daily ETo using varying input scenarios, from full-feature datasets to minimal single-variable inputs. Results show that RF outperforms other models, achieving a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.52 mm/day and a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.96, with temperature and solar radiation identified as key predictors. These findings highlight the practicality of RF for robust and efficient ETo estimation, offering a reliable tool for water management and agricultural planning in resource-constrained settings.

Olfactory spatial memory: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract The human sense of smell is extraordinarily sensitive, and some argue that a main purpose of olfaction is to localize food sources. Yet, little is known about human spatial memory for odors and the existing literature has never been systematically summarized. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we evaluated the evidence regarding human abilities to memorize arrangements of objects or routes based on olfactory cues, and compared results to those of other senses. We followed the PRISMA guidelines, searching three databases (PubMed, WoS, Scopus). Using manual and automated (ASReview) screening methods, we identified 24 articles that complied with our inclusion criteria (e.g., olfactory spatial memory task, healthy human adults). Four key results emerged. First, odors can be used as landmarks in the formation of neuro-cognitive maps in both sensory and cognitive brain areas, providing a foundation for spatial memory and navigation abilities. Second, the human ability to memorize locations of odors, especially cues signaling high-calorie food, is indicative of its presumed evolutionary role in foraging. Third, odor-recognition and odor-context-place association might stem from overlapping memory processes. Fourth, olfactory targeted training enhances olfactory spatial memory and shows transfer to other modalities and cognitive domains. Seven articles that compared performances in olfactory versus visual spatial memory were eligible for meta-analysis. The analysis was carried out using the standardized mean difference (i.e., Glass’s estimator) as the outcome measure. A random-effects model was fitted to the data. Results showed that olfactory spatial memory is less effective than visual memory ( $$\:\widehat{\mu\:}$$ = −0.48, 95% CI [ − 0.77, − 0.19]). Notably, two studies exhibiting the largest differences between sensory modalities were either evaluated as of moderate quality or included older participants. Furthermore, all included studies varied in the methods and materials used. Thus, we suggest that addressing methodological variations across studies and investigating the neural mechanisms will be pivotal for further advancing this research field.

A system design method for virtual ceramic creation oriented to authenticity representation: integration of Kano, QFD, and FAST approaches

Genome edited intestine liver on a chip system for integrated intestinal hepatic drug absorption and metabolism evaluation

Epidemiology and associated factors of abnormal uterine bleeding among reproductive-age women: evidence from Woldia City, Northeast Ethiopia

Herbal maceration modulates fatty acid profile of cold-pressed oils and preserves antioxidant activity during long-term storage

Advanced phenotyping features utilizing deep learning techniques for automated analysis of stomatal guard cell orientation

Simulated environmental weathering of expanded polystyrene foam and polypropylene under UV and wave agitation

Abstract Improper plastic waste management contributes to environmental accumulation and poses significant risks to marine ecosystems and human health. Once in aquatic environments, plastics undergo weathering, leading to physical and chemical changes and fragmentation into microplastics (MPs). This study examines the weathering of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam containers and polypropylene (PP) bags under ten simulated conditions including UV exposure in dry and wet environments (seawater and deionized water), with and without artificial waves. Surface changes were assessed using stereo microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). EPS foam exhibited discoloration, surface cracking, and fragmentation, particularly under UV exposure. These effects were pronounced in both dry and wet environments and confirmed by SEM imaging. PP showed gradual surface changes and fragmentation only under UV exposure with wave agitation, mainly in dry and seawater conditions, without clear discoloration. Carbonyl index (CI) analysis indicated more advanced chemical degradation in EPS foam compared to PP. FTIR spectra revealed new peaks corresponding to C = O and O–H bonds, consistent with photo-oxidative degradation. These results highlight material-specific weathering behaviors and underscore the roles of UV radiation and hydrodynamics in accelerating secondary MP formation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive plastic waste management strategies.

Claus waste-derived TiO2 coupled with UiO-66 for an S-scheme heterojunction with enhanced photocatalytic activity

Application of self-made new endoscopic sleeve guided by wire drainage tube in minimally invasive operation of supratentorial deep brain hematoma

Abstract This study aimed to examine the clinical effectiveness of a new endoscopic sleeve guided by a custom-made drain and guidewire in minimally invasive surgery for supratentorial deep intracerebral hematoma. This study included 168 individuals diagnosed with supratentorial deep cerebral hemorrhage between January 2019 and January 2023. Patients were divided into two groups based on their treatment plans: those who had hematomas removed using a new endoscopic sleeve guided by a homemade drainage tube with guidewire were included in the Experimental group( n  = 84), and those who had hematomas removed using a cranial microscope with a small bone window were included in the control group. Preoperative indices, surgical indices, postoperative complications, discharge outcomes, and prognosis were compared between the two groups. The results found that there were no statistically significant differences between the patients in terms of sex, age, hemorrhage site, preoperative hemorrhage volume (ml), preoperative GCS score, hospital stay, intracranial infection, and epilepsy ( P  > 0.05). The experimental group was compared with the control group in terms of operative time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative residual hematoma volume, hematoma clearance rate, and postoperative hematoma-related outcomes. There was a significant difference ( P  < 0.05) in GCS score at discharge, Rankin score at discharge, and GOS score at 3 months after surgery.The new homemade endoscopic sleeve can reduce collateral damage to brain tissue during sleeve placement, reduce postoperative bleeding from the endoscopic working channel and rebleeding in the operative area, increase the hematoma clearance rate, shorten the operative time, and make endoscopic hematoma removal surgery more precise and minimally invasive.

Public perceptions of biospecimen sampling and uncertainty in the context of personalised nutrition

Personalised nutrition based on analysis of biospecimen generates individual-specific dietary recommendations and potentially, improved health. However, the science underpinning these approaches is evolving and uncertain. Additionally, users must provide a biological sample appropriate to the analytic approach being taken. This two-part quasi-experimental study sought to understand the impact of certainty and sample type on affective responses and attitudes to personalised nutrition. Participants (n716) completed a free association task and an attitudinal survey. Participants responded with more positive affect and attitudes to personalised nutrition when the science was characterised as certain. Attitudes to personalised nutrition were not affected by sample type, although contemplating providing a stool sample elicited more negative affective responses than other samples. This suggests that the need to provide a stool sample could be a barrier to microbiome-based personalised nutrition. We consider the implications of our findings in relation to future research and to providers of personalised nutrition.

Exploring geospatial link between soils and national intelligence quotient

Trajectory classification through Freeman’s curve encoding and entropic analysis

The classification of trajectories in two dimensions was done through an entropic analysis of their coded representation. The steps include discretising the trajectory into an 8-symbol code using the Freeman procedure. The resulting sequence is amenable to entropic analysis. Kolmogorov-Sinai entropy, effective complexity measure and informational distance are used. Different classification schemes can be used based on the value of the entropy variables. Two examples are discussed to illustrate the approach: the Hénon-Heiles model, often used as a test bench for complexity analysis and a real experimental case of human posture analysis.

Effect of XP-endo Finisher and EDDY activation on post-operative pain after single-visit endodontic treatment: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract Advanced irrigation techniques, such as the XP-endo Finisher file and sonic EDDY system, have been introduced to overcome the limitations of conventional needle irrigation by enhancing irrigant penetration and disinfection. However, their influence on post-operative pain remains under investigation. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of these techniques on post-operative pain following single-visit root canal treatment. Thirty patients requiring endodontic treatment for asymptomatic vital maxillary central incisors or canines were enrolled. All procedures were performed in a single visit using the ProTaper Universal rotary system. Irrigation was carried out with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Participants were randomly assigned into three equal groups based on the final irrigation protocol: Group I – conventional needle irrigation (control), Group II – XP-endo Finisher file, and Group III – sonic EDDY activation. Post-operative pain was assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at 8, 24, and 48 h, and at 1 and 2 weeks. Data were statistically analyzed with significance set at P  ≤ 0.05. Pain scores significantly decreased overtime in all groups. While between-group differences were not statistically significant, within-group reductions were significant. Group II exhibited the lowest pain levels, followed by Group III, while Group I reported the highest. Additionally, female participants had significantly higher odds of reporting pain. The XP-endo Finisher and sonic EDDY systems resulted in better pain reduction over time than conventional needle irrigation, with XP-endo Finisher being most effective. Clinical relevance: Advanced irrigation systems may enhance patient comfort and compliance by reducing post-operative pain after endodontic therapy. Clinical trial registration: The study protocol was registered on https://beta.clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT05450003 on (08/07/2022).

Correction: Expansion of forest cover and coeval shifts in Later Stone Age land-use at Taforalt and Rhafas Caves, Morocco, as inferred from carbon isotopes in ungulate tooth enamel

Morphological alterations of peridroplet mitochondria in human liver biopsy

Context-dependency of monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) egg abundance on milkweeds (Asclepias)

North American monarch ( Danaus plexippus ) populations have experienced sharp declines. Loss of milkweed is among the major drivers of this decline. Our objective is to identify factors that influence milkweed habitat quality for monarchs to inform habitat reconstruction efforts. We measured the response of monarch egg abundance to milkweed patch characteristics (milkweed species identity and co-occurring insects) and features of the surrounding landscape (wildflower nectar plants and land use context). From May through September 2019 and 2021, we assessed the abundance of naturally occurring monarch eggs, lady beetles (predators), and aphids (competitors) on swamp milkweed ( Asclepias incarnata ) and common milkweed ( A. syriaca ) plants established in a diverse matrix of wildflower nectar plants or monoculture of fescue grass and located in open row crop habitats or abutting wooded edges. We found that local patch characteristics had the largest effects on monarch egg abundance. Egg abundance differed across milkweed species, but the milkweed species with the highest monarch egg abundance switched from common milkweed in 2019 to swamp milkweed in 2021. We also found that monarch egg abundance was positively associated with oleander aphid ( Aphis nerii ) abundance on both milkweed species, despite significantly higher aphid abundance on swamp milkweed than common milkweed. Lady beetles exhibited a numerical response to oleander aphid prey, but there was no evidence that greater numbers of these generalist predators negatively affected monarch eggs. Landscape features also influenced monarch egg abundance, but the effects varied across milkweed species and years. In 2019, egg abundance was higher on swamp milkweed near trees than in open crop fields, while proximity to wildflower nectar plants increased egg abundance on common milkweed; landscape features did not directly affect egg abundance in 2021. Our results highlight the important role of environmental context in mediating the conservation value of milkweed plantings for monarchs.

Rational design, synthesis of some quinolinone-Schiff bases/ pyridazino[4,5-c]quinolinones with potent anti-lung cancer and antituberculosis performance

Abstract This study reports the synthesis of binary and fused polycyclic hybrids based on quinolinone through the reaction of 3-acetyl-4-hydroxy-1-phenylquinolinone (AHQ) 1 with different amine and hydrazine derivatives to give corresponding Schiff bases 2-6 and hydrazones 8,9a-c . Whereas, formylation of hydrazone 9a , afforded pyrazolylquinolinone carbaldehyde 10 . In addition, angular tricyclic systems 14-19 were synthesized from the reaction of hydrazone 8 with different aldehydes involving piperonal, chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehyde, chromene-3-carbaldehyde, ferrocenecarboxaldehyde, glyoxal and terephthalaldehyde. Whereas, the treatment of hydrazone 8 with different ketones afforded the corresponding bis -hydrazones 20 - 22 instead of the pyridazino skeletons. As well, all the synthesized hybrids were screened for their potential in vitro anti-lung cancer and antituberculosis activities (A549) and H37Rv strains, respectively. The molecular docking studies showed various strong π and hydrogen interactions with the newly synthesized quinolinone scaffolds. Interestingly, compounds  15 ,  16 , and 19 manifested superior activity against both A549 and H37Rv. Interestingly, the most potent compound was 15  with an IC 50 value of 10.38 µM and a MIC value of 6.25 µM. Conclusively, a density functional theory (DFT) calculation was studied.

Self-reported infertility and longitudinal measures of cardiovascular risk factors: The CARDIA study

Introduction Previous reports have noted associations between infertility in women and increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in later life. However, reports conflict regarding the associations between infertility and CVD risk factors. Using data from a population-based cohort of Black and White women, we examined the association between longitudinal assessments of CVD risk factors and infertility. Methods The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study is a prospective cohort of Black and White women who have undergone repeated assessment of CVD risk factors beginning at study baseline (1985–1986). Risk factors included cigarette smoking, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, lipid levels, glucose, and C-reactive protein. At approximately 40 years of age, an ancillary study assessed histories of infertility. We used generalized estimating equations with a logit link model to examine associations between infertility (dependent variable) and repeated CVD risk factors (independent variables), with adjustment for age, race, center, and education level in 1107 women. Results Cigarette use and higher levels of BMI, glucose, and triglycerides and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) were associated with infertility after adjustment for age, race, and education. Cigarette use had the strongest associations with self-reported infertility in multivariable models (odds ratio 1.85, 95% confidence interval 1.64, 2.14). Conclusions Women with infertility histories have adverse CVD risk factors across the reproductive lifespan, but cigarette use is the primary CVD risk factor for women’s self-reported infertility.

Acute effect of light and time of day on thermal physiology, perception, and behavior

Abstract Implementing novel, human-centric building control strategies that account for the interaction of multidomain factors, light, temperature, and time of day, can enhance occupant comfort and promote energy savings. However, their successful implementations require a robust framework that clearly explains the physiological mechanisms through which light exposure influences thermal perception and evaluation. To date, most studies have primarily relied on the hue-heat hypothesis, which attributes changes in thermal assessment solely to visual color associations, overlooking the physiological impact of light, particularly blue-enriched bright light, on the circadian rhythm and thermoregulation. In this study, we investigated the influence of light intensity on thermal physiology, perception, and behavior within a circadian context, employing skin temperature measurements, subjective questionnaires, and fan-use behavior as outcome measures. 20 healthy adults participated in four experimental sessions combining two illuminance levels (bright vs. dim, with identical spectral composition) at two times of day (07:00 and 14:00) under warm conditions, both steady-state and fan-induced dynamic ones. Results showed that skin temperature followed its natural circadian rhythm, being lower in the early morning than at midday. Notably, bright light exposure significantly suppressed the circadian rise in skin temperature in the morning, shifted thermal sensation votes from slightly warm towards neutral, and improved thermal comfort votes compared to dim light or midday exposure. This effect was evident under steady-state warm conditions and persisted following fan use. In contrast, under the fan-induced slightly cool condition, neither light intensity nor time of day significantly affected thermal assessment. These findings underscore the fundamental role of circadian physiology in thermal comfort and suggest that strategically timed light and thermal exposure can optimize comfort by aligning ambient conditions with the body’s internal rhythms.