Browse Articles

MEBANet: A Multi-domain Enhancement and Boundary Awareness Network for urban village extraction from high-resolution imagery

Urban villages, as a typical phenomenon in the process of urbanization, play a significant role in urban planning and sustainable development. However, their high-density structures and complex boundaries pose significant challenges for extraction tasks based on remote sensing imagery. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a Multi-domain Enhancement and Boundary Awareness Network (MEBANet) for urban village extraction. MEBANet consists of three core blocks: 1) The spatial-frequency-channel feature extraction block (SFCB), which simultaneously enhances feature representation in the spatial, frequency, and channel domains; 2) The multi-scale boundary awareness block (MBAB), which leverages dense atrous spatial pyramid pooling (DenseASPP) and multi-directional sobel operator convolution to strengthen the perception of complex boundaries; and 3) The deep supervision block (DSB), which accelerates model convergence through multi-level supervision signals. Experiments were conducted on three publicly available datasets from Beijing, Xi’an, and Shenzhen. The results demonstrate that MEBANet outperforms existing methods in terms of precision, recall, F1-score, and IoU. Additionally, cross-dataset transfer experiments validate the robustness and generalization capability of MEBANet. Ablation studies further confirm the effectiveness of each block. This study provides a high-accuracy and automated solution for urban village extraction from high-resolution remote sensing imagery, offering valuable insights for urban planning and management.

Controlled Synthesis of Ultralow-Defect Poly(vinylidene fluoride) via Organocatalyzed Low-Temperature Polymerization

Adult sex ratio and declining birth rates in Birhan HDSS rural Ethiopia

Pairing limb posture feedback with an ankle exoskeleton to augment limb propulsion

Limb propulsion deficits are common in a variety of clinical populations and may arise from a decreased plantarflexor moment and/or decreased trailing limb angle (TLA). Ankle exoskeletons (EXOs) can augment plantarflexor moment, but observations of a concurrently reduced TLA has limited the conversion of increased plantarflexor moment to increased propulsion in people following stroke. The purpose of this study was to assess the interaction of unilateral EXO (plantarflexor) assistance and TLA feedback on gait propulsion, joint mechanics, and margins of stability. Ten young, unimpaired individuals walked on an instrumented treadmill with the EXO worn but unpowered to obtain baseline peak TLA. Participants then walked with visual feedback of TLA while attempting to match a target peak TLA of baseline-5°, baseline, or baseline+5° in random order. For each target TLA, participants walked with three EXO plantarflexor torque magnitudes, with peak assistance proportional to bodyweight (0%, 15%, and 35% bodyweight) in random order. Propulsive impulse significantly increased as peak TLA increased but was not affected by EXO assistance. Higher EXO assistance resulted in a proximal-to-distal shift in positive mechanical work performed by the lower limb, observed as an increase in the relative contribution of the ankle to total ankle and hip positive mechanical work. Increased TLA significantly reduced the magnitude of the anteroposterior margin of stability at toe-off, while higher EXO assistance yielded larger anteroposterior margins of stability. Margins of stability in the mediolateral direction were not affected by TLA or EXO assistance. This study highlights the potential for increasing propulsion through feedback of TLA, but with potential negative impacts to stability. For populations with deficits in plantarflexor moment, the use of visual feedback to prevent a reduction in TLA while walking with ankle EXOs may allow conversion of joint benefits to benefits in limb propulsion.

Development of a Ligand for Cu-Catalyzed Amination of Base-Sensitive (Hetero)aryl Chlorides

Effect of orally administered L. crispatus M247 in favoring HR-HPV clearance and CST shift: results from a randomized, multi-center, placebo-controlled trial

On the robustness of [18F]-FDG-PET radiomic features to variations in image acquisition and reconstruction settings: A phantom study

Background Greater access to clinically meaningful data from [ 18 F]-FDG-PET images could be made possible through radiomics. However, the vulnerability of radiomic measurements to changes in image acquisition and reconstruction settings has raised concerns on their reliability in clinical practice. Methods Using the NEMA-IQ phantom, we evaluated the robustness of [ 18 F]-FDG-PET radiomic features to variations in acquisition duration, reconstruction algorithm, transaxial matrix size, z-axis filtering, Gaussian smoothing, and other reconstruction algorithm-specific settings (number of iterations, subsets, updates, and penalisation factors). Feature robustness was assessed using the coefficient of variation (CV < 10%) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC > 0.9). Non-robust features were examined for dependencies on these parameters that could be corrected using simple mathematical equations. Using mixed-effects models, we also explored whether differences in region volume or intensity could explain the variability of feature values. Results Our findings demonstrated that the majority of [ 18 F]-FDG-PET radiomic features were not robust to variations in image acquisition/reconstruction parameters, with features displaying the least stability to matrix size. Robust features mainly comprised shape-based and entropy-related measurements. Most non-robust features did not possess a dependency on acquisition/reconstruction settings that could be corrected using simple equations. The volume and intensity of interrogated regions were also shown to be likely determinants of feature variability to these settings. Conclusions Care should be taken when handling radiomic data extracted from heterogeneously acquired/reconstructed [ 18 F]-FDG-PET images. Alternative strategies could be required to mitigate the effects of variations in these parameters on radiomic features.

Reversible Single-Crystal-to-Single-Crystal Isomerization of the Azo Photoswitch

The translation and validation of the procrastination and precrastination traits scale in the modern Arabic Language

Abstract Procrastination and precrastination are distinct self-regulatory behaviors that influence individual functioning and well-being. Despite growing interest in these constructs, culturally adapted and psychometrically validated tools in Arabic-speaking contexts remain limited. This study addresses this gap by translating, validating, and evaluating the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Procrastination and Precrastination Traits Scale (PPTS). The present study aimed to examine the factorial structure, reliability, and convergent and divergent validity of the Arabic PPTS among Arabic-speaking adults and explore its associations with life satisfaction and standardized measures of procrastination. A sample of 1,000 participants (mean age = 27.93 years, standard deviation (SD) = 5.73; age range = 18–38) completed an online survey comprising the 18-item PPTS, the 12-item Pure Procrastination Scale (PPS), and the 5-item Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Descriptive analyses, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), reliability testing, and bivariate correlations were conducted to assess psychometric performance. CFA supported a two-factor model with good fit indices (CFI = 0.939; TLI = 0.930; RMSEA = 0.05; SRMR = 0.04). All the items loaded significantly onto their respective factors: procrastination (items 1–10) and precrastination (items 11–18). Internal consistency was good for both subscales (procrastination: α = 0.861, ω = 0.861; precrastination: α = 0.788, ω = 0.803). Procrastination was positively correlated with PPS (r = 0.781, p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with SWLS (r = -0.475, p < 0.001). Conversely, precrastination was negatively associated with PPS (r = -0.405, p < 0.001) and positively associated with SWLS (r = 0.249, p < 0.001), supporting both convergent and divergent validity. The Arabic PPTS has adequate factorial validity, good reliability, and meaningful construct validity. It provides a culturally appropriate instrument for assessing behavioral tendencies of delay and hastiness, with implications for psychological assessment, educational interventions, and cross-cultural research on self-regulation and well-being.

The prevalence and persistence of maternal morbidities after first vs. second birth: A prospective cohort study in Ireland

Background This study aimed to assess the prevalence and persistence of key maternal morbidities – urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, pelvic girdle pain, sexual health problems, depression, and anxiety – after the births of a first and second baby. Its longitudinal design distinguishes it from previous research by examining a range of morbidities over two childbirths and stratifying results based on women’s prior health history. Methods and findings A prospective cohort of 3,047 nulliparous women completed surveys in early pregnancy and at 3, 6, 9, and 12-months postpartum after their first birth. Of these, 254 women who had a second baby and consented to follow-up completed additional surveys at 6-months and/or 12-months postpartum after their second baby’s birth. Prevalence of each morbidity was reported at each time point, 3, 6, 9, 12-months after the first birth; and 6 and/or 12-months after the second birth. Persistence was defined as reporting the morbidity at 6 and/or 12-months after the first birth and again at 6 and/or 12-months after the second birth. Among 91 women reporting urinary incontinence after their first baby’s birth, persistence was 100% (n = 5/5) for those who experienced it in the 12-months prior to their first pregnancy and 39.5% (n = 34/86) for those without (RR 2.53, 95% CI (1.95–3.29)). For pelvic girdle pain (n = 86), persistence was 98.1% (n = 52/53) who experienced it in the 12-months prior to their first pregnancy and 97.0% (n = 32/33) for those without (RR 1.01, 95% CI (0.94–1.09)). Sexual health problems persisted in 100% (n = 76/76) of those who experienced it in the 12-months prior to their first pregnancy versus 89.6% (n = 43/48) without (RR 1.12, 95% CI (1.02–1.23)). Depression persisted in 50% (n = 4/8) of those who experienced it in the 12 months prior to their first pregnancy versus 19.0% (n = 15/79) without (RR 2.63, 95% CI (1.15–6.03)); and anxiety persisted in 100% (n = 1/1) of those who experienced it in the 12-months prior to their first pregnancy versus 13.5% (n = 12/89) without anxiety (RR 7.42, 95% CI (4.38–12.55)). Conclusions These findings underscore the need for early identification and intervention to mitigate long-term health issues, highlighting the importance of targeted pregnancy and postpartum care for women with prior maternal morbidities.

Kinetic Resolution for 1,4-Spin-Center Shift-Based Reduction of Azaarene-Functionalized Secondary and Tertiary Allylic Alcohols

Turning 2D MOFs into Mixed Ionic-Electronic Conductors via Side Chain Engineering

Overexpression of androgen receptor signalling transactivator lncRNAs PRNCR1 and PCGEM1 are associated with the increased risk of PCOS

Impact of exposure frequency on disease burden of the common cold – A mathematical modeling perspective

The common cold is a frequent disease in humans and can be caused by a multitude of different viruses. Despite its typically mild nature, the high prevalence of the common cold causes significant human suffering and economic costs. Oftentimes, strategies to reduce contacts are used in order to prevent infection. To better understand the dynamics of this ubiquitous ailment, we develop two novel mathematical models: the common cold ordinary differential equation (CC-ODE) model at the population level, and the common cold individual-based (CC-IB) model at the individual level. Our study aims to investigate whether the frequency of population / individual exposure to an exemplary common cold pathogen influences the average disease burden associated with such a virus. Results derived for this situation can also be applied to other common cold pathogens. On the one hand, the CC-ODE model captures the dynamics of the common cold within a population, considering factors such as infectivity and contact rates, as well as development of specific immunity in the population. On the other hand, the CC-IB model provides a granular perspective by simulating individual-level interactions and infection dynamics, incorporating heterogeneity in contact rates. In both modeling approaches, we show that under specific parameter configurations (i.e., characteristics of the virus and the population), increased exposure can result in a lower average disease burden. While increasing contact rates may be ethically justifiable for low-mortality common cold pathogens, we explicitly do not advocate for such measures in severe illnesses. The mathematical approaches we introduce are simple yet powerful and can be taken as a starting point for the investigation of specific common cold pathogens and scenarios.

Discovery and Mechanism of a Diiron Enzyme in Ethylidene Azetidine Formation

Hybridization and embryological patterns underpinning reproductive barriers in Dactylorhiza (Orchidaceae)

Abstract Pre- and postmating barriers are strongly associated with embryological processes occurring in developing flower buds and flowers. Although the embryology of Dactylorhiza representatives has been briefly described, comprehensive cytoembryological studies are scarce. In this study, the mechanisms of reproductive isolation within the Dactylorhiza incarnata/maculata complex were examined using cytological, embryological, and molecular approaches. Four taxa were analyzed: the diploid ancestors D. incarnata and D. fuchsii , the autotetraploid D. maculata , and the allotetraploid D. majalis . Fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed species-specific rDNA patterns, with D. majalis exhibiting rDNA patterns consistent with the hypothesis of its allopolyploid origin. Embryological assessments under controlled pollination conditions demonstrated variable gametophyte development and seed viability, with diploids and D. maculata showing 73–85% seed viability compared to 28% for D. majalis. Interspecific crosses between diploid progenitors yielded asymmetrical hybrids, with crosses between D. fuchsii  ×  D. incarnata showing a significantly higher success rate. Cytological analysis revealed meiotic abnormalities, including chromosome segregation disruptions during megasporogenesis in D. incarnata and D. maculata , suggesting that cytogenetic mechanisms may reduce seed fertility and viability. Analysis of microsatellite markers of F 1 hybrids revealed maternal influence on hybrid genotypes. All these findings suggest that postzygotic barriers dominate over prezygotic mechanisms in this complex, challenging previous assumptions about the direction of allopolyploids formation within the group. Our results shed new light on the reproductive mechanisms underlying the recurrent hybridization and polyploidization events that have shaped diversity in the Dactylorhiza genus.

From pre-oral secretions to gut digestion: How do Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) larvae handle Leishmania major?

Zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL), caused by Leishmania major , is a neglected tropical disease affecting impoverished populations. Current treatments are limited by cost, resistance, and side effects, highlighting the need for affordable, sustainable interventions. Lucilia sericata larvae, used in maggot therapy, effectively treat chronic wounds through debridement, antimicrobial activity, and healing promotion. This study explores how L. sericata processes L. major and proposes its potential application in ZCL treatment. The life cycles of L. sericata and L. major were maintained in laboratory conditions. Larval-parasite interactions were tested across substrates [hen liver, rat spleen, Roswell Park Memorial Institute (RPMI) 1640 cell culture medium] and time intervals (30–240 minutes). Extracorporeal effects were evaluated using trypan blue exclusion and MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays; intracorporeal interactions via microscopy and nested-PCR targeting L. major rRNA genes. L. sericata excretion/secretion products and microbiota exhibited strong anti-leishmanial activity. Promastigotes were deformed within 1 hour post-exposure (hpe), fully inactivated at 4 hpe, and lysed by 6 hpe. In RPMI medium, the treatment group ( L. sericata  +  L. major ) showed significant reductions in active parasites and viable cells compared to controls after 4 hours. Microscopy revealed no parasites in larval guts, but PCR detected L. major DNA in all specimens, suggesting partial digestion. This study demonstrates that L. sericata can eliminate L. major through intra- and extra-oral digestion, supporting its potential as a biotherapeutic agent for ZCL-associated wounds. These findings offer a foundation for developing larval therapy protocols in dermatology. Further studies in animal models and clinical trials are required to validate this approach for managing ZCL.

Copper-Catalyzed Asymmetric Nitrenoid Transfer to Access Fused δ-Lactams via HFIP-Assisted Aziridination and Cascade Cyclization

Naturalistic fNIRS assessment reveals decline in executive function and altered prefrontal activation following social media use in college students

Abstract As of 2023, 69% of adults and 81% of teens in the U.S. use social media regularly. This study investigates the immediate impact of social media consumption on executive functioning (EF) and emotion in college students using a wearable, naturalistic functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) system. Twenty participants completed EF tasks and self-report questionnaires both before and after a brief social media exposure. Over half (55%) met criteria for social media addiction, with an average Instagram usage of five hours per week. Behaviorally, social media exposure led to reduced accuracy in EF tasks, including n-back and Go/No-Go paradigms. Neurally, increased medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) activation suggested greater cognitive effort and performance monitoring, while decreased dorsolateral (dlPFC) and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC) activation reflected impairments in working memory and inhibition. Reduced inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) activity was also linked to difficulties suppressing motor responses. Emotional changes were modest, with the control group reporting slightly lower happiness post-intervention. These findings demonstrate the cognitive cost of social media use and underscore the potential of wearable fNIRS for real-world brain monitoring. This approach may inform future interventions and support precision mental health strategies targeting digital behavior.

Event-triggered adaptive predefined-time anti-unwinding attitude tracking control for spacecraft

This paper addresses the problem of predefined-time attitude tracking control for rigid spacecraft subject to external disturbances and unknown inertia parameters. First, a predefined-time non-singular sliding surface is designed to ensure that the closed-loop system converges within a predefined time. Second, to tackle the unwinding problem inherent in quaternion-based modeling, a potential function is introduced in the controller design to guarantee anti-unwinding performance even outside the sliding surface. The proposed controller not only suppresses chattering but also ensures both anti-unwinding behavior and predefined-time convergence. Then, an event-triggered mechanism is developed to reduce communication burden while avoiding Zeno behavior. The proposed control method can make the attitude tracking error converge to an arbitrary predefined residual set. Finally, simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.