One of the challenges in Content-Based Image Retrieval (CBIR) is to reduce the semantic gaps between low-level features and high-level semantic concepts. In CBIR, the images are represented in the feature space and the performance of CBIR depends on the type of selected feature representation. Late fusion also known as visual words integration is applied to enhance the performance of image retrieval. The recent advances in image retrieval diverted the focus of research towards the use of binary descriptors as they are reported computationally efficient. In this paper, we aim to investigate the late fusion of Fast Retina Keypoint (FREAK) and Scale Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT). The late fusion of binary and local descriptor is selected because among binary descriptors, FREAK has shown good results in classification-based problems while SIFT is robust to translation, scaling, rotation and small distortions. The late fusion of FREAK and SIFT integrates the performance of both feature descriptors for an effective image retrieval. Experimental results and comparisons show that the proposed late fusion enhances the performances of image retrieval.

The aim of this study was to determine the potential of early inflammatory markers to diagnose late-onset neonatal sepsis - procalcitonin (PCT), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8) and endocan (ESM-1), and to compare them with routinely used markers. A prospective (January, 2022 – January, 2023) clinical-epidemiological study was conducted in a third level NICU in Pleven, Bulgaria. Patients with suspected nosocomial infection and healthy controls were tested. A sandwich ELISA method was used to measure the serum concentrations. Sixty newborns with an average gestational age of 29.75 ± 3.61 gestational weeks were included, of which 35 % were symptomatic and infected, 33.3 % were symptomatic but uninfected, and 31.7 % were asymptomatic controls. The mean values of PCT, IL-6, I:T index and PLT differ significantly in the three groups. For ESM-1, IL-8 and CRP, the difference was statistically insignificant. The best sensitivity (78%) and negative predictive value (84%) was found for IL-6. The combination of PCT + IL-6 + I:T+ PLT demonstrated high precision (78%) and best sensitivity (94%) and negative predictive value (95%). The introduction into routine practice of indicators such as PCT and IL-6 may provide an opportunity to promptly optimize the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to LOS.

Tomato is the highest-value fruit/vegetable crop worldwide. However, the quality and yield of tomatoes are severely affected by late blight. MicroRNA482s (miR482s) are involved in plant immune system. In this study, miR482c was transiently and stably overexpressed in tomatoes in transgenic plants to explore its mechanism in tomato resistance against late blight. Tomato in transgenic plants transiently overexpressed miR482c displayed larger lesion area than the control plants upon infection. Furthermore, compared with the WT tomato plants, the transgenic tomato plants stably overexpressing miR482c displayed decreased expression of target genes accompanied by lower POD, SOD, and PAL activity activities and higher MDA content, thereby leading to a decline in the ROS scavenging ability and aggravating the damage of lipid peroxidation product accumulation on the cell membrane, eventually enhancing plant susceptibility. This finding indicates that miR482c may act as a negative regulator in tomato resistance by regulating NBS-LRR expression levels and ROS levels.

A 35-year-old man with a late-onset combined immunodeficiency (LOCID) variant of common variable immunodeficiency, severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease attended Regional Hospital of Presidente Prudente and HC-FMUSP, São Paulo, Brazil. Anti-IL-12/IL-23 (ustekinumab) monoclonal antibody was prescribed due to failure of other treatments (phototherapy, oral acitretin) for psoriasis and Psoriasis Area Severity Index <10. We evaluated the impact of ustekinumab, a potent immunosuppressor, on the risk of infectious diseases in this patient followed for 8 years. Four quarterly doses of ustekinumab 90 mg and human immunoglobulin replacement (10,000 mg at 28-day intervals) were administered. Immunophenotyping, culture of lymphocytes, genetic sequencing, and whole exome sequencing were performed to investigate the primary immunodeficiency. Normal lymphocyte proliferation, absence of pathogenic variants in the genes analyzed and no clinically significant variants were detected in the whole exome. The main infections included chronic sinusitis, tonsillitis, fungal and bacterial otitis, gastroenteritis, and community-acquired pneumonia. The patient was infected with COVID-19, dengue (twice), and influenza and was hospitalized three times for intravenous antibiotic therapy. Ustekinumab did not influence susceptibility to severe infections and significantly improved psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease in a patient with LOCID.

Introduction: This study aimed to identify factors associated with late diagnosis and clinically monitor newly diagnosed HIV/AIDS patients. Method: Retrospective longitudinal study, based on secondary data from a specialized unit at a tertiary hospital. Data collection included sociodemographic, behavioral, clinical, and laboratory data of newly diagnosed HIV patients between 2015-2019. Data analysis adopted inferential statistical tests using the SPSS program, considering α ≤ 0.05. Results: 314 individuals were newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. 70.3% (208) had a late diagnosis, and 57.1% (169) were diagnosed very late. There was an association of the very late diagnosis with the variables sex and education and with origin, entry, occurrence of opportunistic diseases, use of ARV therapy, and death, associated with late and very late diagnosis, respectively. The results of the regression model indicate that males had 2.28 [95% CI 1.11 - 4.46] higher chances of having a late diagnosis compared to females. Conclusions: This study evidenced a high prevalence of late and very late diagnoses in newly diagnosed male HIV patients who presented with opportunistic diseases, requiring hospitalization, and having a significant risk of progressing to death.

Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary causing potato late blight (LB) and potato virus Y (PVY), are serious constraints to cultivated potatoes causing important yield reduction, and phenotyping for resistance is challenging. Breeding operations for vegetatively propagated crops can lead to genotype mislabeling that in turn reduces the genetic gain. Low-density and low-cost molecular marker assessment for phenotype prediction and quality control stands as a viable option for breeding programs. We report here the development of Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) markers for LB and PVY resistance, and for quality control assessment, and their routine use in different breeding populations. Two KASP markers for LB resistance and two for PVY Ryadg were validated with an estimated assay power ranging between 0.65 and 0.88. Developed QC KASP markers demonstrated the power of tetraploid calls in discriminating the breeding material, including full sibs and half sibs. The routine implementation of developed markers in a breeding program will allow a better allocation of resources and a precise characterization of the breeding material, leading to an increased genetic gain.

The endometrium, the inner mucosal lining of the uterus, undergoes complex molecular and cellular changes across the menstrual cycle in preparation for embryo implantation. Transcrip-tome-wide analyses have mainly been utilized to study the endometrial receptivity, the prerequisite for successful implantation, with most of the studies, so far, comparing the endometrial transcriptomes between (i) secretory versus proliferative endometrium or (ii) mid-secretory versus early-secretory endometrium. In the current study, we provide the complete transcriptome description of the endometrium across the entire menstrual cycle and, for the first time, comprehensively characterize the proliferative phase of the endometrium. Our temporal transcriptome analysis includes five time points: mid-proliferative, late-proliferative (peri-ovulatory phase), early-secretory, mid-secretory, and late-secretory phases. Thus, we exhaustively unveil the transitions between the consecutive proliferative and secretory phases, highlighting their unique gene expression profiles and possible distinct biological functions. Transcriptome analysis reveals many differentially expressed genes (DEGs) across the menstrual cycle, most of which are phase-specific. As an example of the coordinated gene activity, the expression profile of his-tone-encoding genes within the HIST cluster on chromosome 6 showed an increase in cluster activity during the late-proliferative and a decline during the mid-secretory phase. Moreover, numerous DEGs are shared among all phases. In conclusion, in the current study, we delineate the endometrial proliferative phase-centered view of transcriptome dynamics across the menstrual cycle. Data analysis highlights significant transcriptomic and functional changes occurring during the late-proliferative phase – an essential transition point from the proliferative to the secretory phase. Future studies should explore how the biology of the late-proliferative phase endometrium impacts the achievement of mid-secretory endometrial receptivity or contributes to molecular aberrations leading to embryo implantation failure.

Worldwide cervical cancer ranks the fourth most common cancer in women. In Tanzania, cervical cancer is the leading female malignancy, and a major cause of cancer related mortality and morbidity in women. More than 80% of women with cervical cancer, are diagnosed with late stage, in which curative treatment options are not available. To explore the knowledge, perceptions and behaviors among women with late-stage cervical cancer who attended Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) from November to December 2021. Explorative qualitative study was conducted from November to December 2021 at BMC, involving 11 participants who had late-stage cervical cancer. Purposive sampling was used to recruit information-rich participants. Data collection was done by using open ended In-depth interview guide. The guide contained information on social demographic characteristics, knowledge on cervical disease, perceptions towards cervical cancer symptoms, health care seeking behaviors. Data was transcribed and analysed manually by using thematic approach. The coded texts generated three themes and nine subthemes. The results showed that Participants had poor knowledge about cervical cancer disease, causes, risk factors, prevention measures and treatment options which had impact on the perceptions and health care seeking behaviors. Participants misinterpreted the symptoms with other urogenital conditions like fungus and urinary tract infection. Misconception about the symptoms and disease, long distance to health facilities and financial challenges hindered involvement in seeking biomedical intervention and witch doctors were given a priority. Findings from this study suggest a strong need of intensive health promotion efforts and education through mass media and outreaches to improve adequate and correct knowledge and awareness about cervical cancer disease, causes, symptoms, risk factors, prevention and treatment options. Health care providers and policy makers should include cervical cancer disease as a topic of everyday health education in the health facilities.

Patients with bipolar disorder (BD) experience more frequent and intense emotions in response to environmental conditions relative to healthy subjects, which leads to mood instability. The aim of this study was to investigate the time-course of emotion regulation strategies, distraction, and reappraisal, in euthymic BD patients using electroencephalography (EEG). Fourteen BD patients and 13 matched healthy controls took part in an experiment constituted of three conditions, i.e., a passive viewing of positive, negative, and neutral pictures and two regulation conditions, one with reappraisal strategy and the other with distraction strategy. Critically, ERP results indicated that during passive viewing, the Late Positive Potential (LPP) was larger in BD patients compared with healthy controls, but only for neutral pictures. During emotion regulation, LPP amplitude was reduced in distraction condition compared with viewing one, especially for negative emotions in both patients and controls. Importantly, LPP was reduced in reappraisal condition compared with passive viewing in an early time window for negative emotions and in a later time window for positive emotions in controls but not in patients. Our findings showed that the neurochronometry of emotion regulation is faster for negative than for positive emotion in controls but not in BD patients.

Anderson – Fabry disease (AFD) is a rare, X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by a mutation in the α-Galactosidase A gene resulting in α-Galactosidase A enzyme (α-Gal A) deficiency. The metabolic defect leads to progressive accumulation of glycosphingolipids and structural and functional impairment of affected organs. Due to the inheritance pattern, male patients are hemizygous with more severe manifestations of the disease as compared to females who in most cases are heterozygous with delayed and variable clinical presentation caused by uneven X – chromosome inactivation. Fabry disease cases are often identified by targeted screening programs in high-risk groups, such as in patients with end-stage renal disease, premature stroke or unexplained cardiomyopathy. Here we describe a unique case of homozygous female patient identified by a nationwide screening program in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients. Before the systematic screening, the patient had a diagnosis of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy and was treated accordingly including alcohol septal ablation to reduce the obstructive gradient. The confirmation of Fabry disease has led to discovery of the same variant in several members of her family. The identified variant was c.644A>G, p.Asn215Ser (N2015S) known to cause predominant cardiac involvement with late onset of the disease. The variant is amenable for an oral therapy by the small molecular chaperone migalastat which was started, then interrupted for recurrence of patient´s migraine and then re-initiated again after two years. During this period the patient received enzyme replacement therapy by agalsidase beta but developed a progressively worsening venous access. Our case illustrates the importance of systematic screening of patients with clinical evidence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in whom routine diagnostic process fails to discover Fabry disease, in particular variants with late onset cardiac manifestations. Many of the late onset variants are amenable for orally active therapy by migalastat which significantly improves the comfort of the treatment. Its long term results are analysed by a large international “Follow-me” registry which was designed to verify the validity of pivotal trials with migalastat in Fabry disease.

Relatively little research attention has been paid to sex issues in late life suicidal behaviour. The aim was to compare clinical characteristics of women and men aged 70+ who were hospitalized after a suicide attempt. We hypothesized higher depression and anxiety scores in women, and we expected to find that men would more often attribute the attempt to health problems and compromised autonomy. Participants (56 women and 47 men, mean age 80) were interviewed by a psychologist. In addition to psychiatric and somatic health assessments, participants responded to an open-ended question concerning attributions of the attempt. There were no sex differences in depression and anxiety, but women were more likely to report that they found their situation hopeless (67.9% vs. 43.8%, p = 0.02). At least one serious physical disability was noted in 60.7% of the women and 53.2% of the men (p = 0.55). Proportions attributing their attempt to somatic illness did not differ (women, 14.5% vs. men 17.4%, p = 0.79), and similar proportions attributed the attempt to reduced autonomy (women, 21.8% vs. men, 26.1 %, p = 0.64). The unexpected lack of sex differences might be influenced by cultural context in which sex norms play a part.

Telomeres are structures at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes that help maintain genomic stability. During aging, telomere length gradually shortens, producing short telomeres, which are considered markers of premature cellular senescence. This is believed to contribute to age-related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and based on this, several studies have hypothesized that telomere shortening may characterize AD. Current research, however, has been inconclusive regarding the direction of the association between leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and disease risk. We assessed the association between LTL and AD in a retrospective case-control study of a sample of 255 unrelated patients with late-onset AD (LOAD), including 120 sporadic cases and 135 with positive family history for LOAD, and a group of 279 cognitively healthy unrelated controls, which were all from Calabria, a region from south Italy. Following regression analysis, telomeres were found to be significantly shorter in LOAD cases than in controls (p<0.001 for both sporadic and familial cases). Interestingly, LTL were associated to disease risk independently of the presence of conventional risk factors (e.g., age, sex, MMSE scores, presence of the APOE-ε4 allele). Altogether, our findings lend support to the notion that LTL shortening may be an indicator of the patho-genesis of LOAD.

We sought to compare native T1 mapping to conventional Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and T2-STIR techniques in a cohort of consecutive patients undergoing cardiac MRI (CMR).. CMR was performed in 323 patients, 206 males (64%), mean age 54±8 years and in 27 age- and sex- matched healthy controls. At T2-STIR images myocardial hyperintensity suggesting edema was found in 41 patients (27%). LGE images were positive in 206 patients (64%). T1 mapping was abnormal in 171 (49%). In 206 patients (64%) a matching between LGE and native T1 was found. T1 was abnormal in 32 out of 41 (78%) with edema at T2-STIR. Overall, LGE and/or T2-STIR were abnormal in 209 patients, whereas native T1 in 154(52%). Conventional techniques and T1 mapping were concordant in 208 patients (64%). In 39 patients T1 mapping was positive despite negative conventional techniques (12%). T1 mapping was able in conditions with diffuse myocardial damage as cardiac amyloidosis, scleroderma and Fabry disease (additive role in 42%). On contrast, T1 mapping was less effective in cardiac disease with regional distribution of myocardial damage as myocardial infarction, HCM, myocarditis. In conclusion, conventional LGE/T2-STIR and T1 mapping are complementary techniques and should be used together in every CMR examination.

The urban museum has become a multi-functional institution that transcends the functional display of artifacts. The museum has become, in cities, a hybrid institution that keeps its doors open late to support a wide variety of special events. This study explored London’s ‘Museum Lates’ programs and event characteristics, using museums’ theoretical views as cultural tourism attractions. Furthermore, the study applied the contextual model of learning to understand visitor attendance motivations. Authors employed an interpretive approach using interviews with two types of participants, event visitors, and event coordinators. Findings suggested that attendees possess a complex of personal, physical, and socio-cultural motivations for participating in museum lates events. The characteristics of late events – extraordinary quality and evening time atmosphere – produce different effects than current museum exhibitions held during regular operating hours. Museum lates events can contribute to achieving cultural sustainability, adding cultural construct to the traditional three-pillars of sustainability. Keywords: Museums; special events; late opening; visitors' motivations; sustainability, touristic attractions

Intermediate-luminosity-optical-transients (ILOTs) are stellar outbursts with luminosity between those of classical novae and supernovae. They are divided into a number of sub-groups depending on the erupting progenitor and the properties of the eruption. Many of the ILOTs sit on the slanted Optical Transient Stripe (OTS) in the Energy-Time Diagram (ETD) that shows their total energy vs. duration of their eruption. We describe the different kinds of ILOTs that populate the OTS and other parts of the ETD. We also stand on similarities between Planetary Nebulae (PN) to ILOTs, and suggest that some PNe were formed in an ILOT event. The high energy part of the OTS is reserved to the supernova impostors -- giant eruption of very massive stars. We show results of 3D hydrodynamical simulations of supernova impostors that expose the mechanism behind these giant eruptions, and present new models for recent ILOTs. We stand on the connection between different kinds of ILOTs, and suggest that they are powered by a similar source of energy -- gravitational energy released by mass transfer.

Objective: To analyze and investigate the impact of early rehabilitation training based on developmental sequencing on the growth and development of late preterm infants. Methods: This study focused on preterm infants admitted to our hospital from June 2021 to November 2021. Strict screening was applied to select 54 cases for inclusion. Clinical data were collected for all study subjects, and based on different intervention plans, they were divided into a control group and an experimental group, with 27 cases in each group. The experimental group received intervention based on a developmental sequencing early rehabilitation model in addition to routine care, while the control group only received routine care intervention. The growth and development of the two groups of preterm infants were compared during the study, including physical indicators, intellectual-motor skills, neurobehavioral assessments, and developmental monitoring. Results: The clinical data of the two groups of preterm infants were comparable, with no significant differences (P>0.05). The experimental group exhibited significantly higher values in physical indicators such as weight, head circumference, and height compared to the control group (P<0.05). Intellectual-motor scores (MDI and PDI) of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). The NBNA scale scores for various dimensions were higher in the experimental group compared to the control group (P<0.05). The DQ values of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Early rehabilitation training based on developmental sequencing has a positive impact on the growth and development of late preterm infants. Through systematic and sequenced rehabilitation interventions, various aspects of development in late preterm infants can be promoted effectively. This approach not only improves physical development but also enhances intellectual-motor skills, neurobehavioral development, and overall developmental levels. The results are significant, indicating the worthiness of widespread application and promotion.

Purpose: Testicular cancer (TC) is a rare cancer but due to early age at diagnosis and excellent cure rates, there is a big cohort of survivors. Recent studies have highlighted the late side effects of treatments of TC especially cisplatin based chemotherapy. These complications make the survivorship care challenging with detrimental effects on health and prognosis of TC survivors. In this study we provide a snapshot of common late side effects in TCS and a possible care pathway with nurse-led specialised clinic. Methods: We invited TCS in one of the cancer centre in Ireland for a comprehensive screening using questionnaires, examination and blood tests. Further investigations were performed as indicated. Mortality was assessed through retrospective chart reviews. Results: We recruited 78 TCS to participate in study. 3 patients who had died in survivorship phase were assessed through retrospective chart review. Second malignant neoplasms accounted for all three mortalities. Most common conditions in TCS after 5 years of diagnosis were hypertension (40%), dyslipidaemia (55.6%), hypogonadism (~45%) and high body mass index (52%). Majority of underlying conditions were diagnosed during screening in our clinic including two cases of coronary artery disease and one case of transient ischaemic attacks. Chemotherapy and age more than 30 years at the time of TC diagnosis were associated with a higher incidence of the late side effects. Conclusions: TC is a highly curable cancer but survivorship phase is marred by a range of late side effects. As we lack clear guidelines and care pathways for survivorship, this remains a challenge for patients and healthcare workers. A nurse-led, specialised, screening clinic can improve the care and prognosis of TC survivors.

Diagnosis of neonatal sepsis is difficult as signs and symptoms are nonspecific. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a promising marker for neonatal sepsis. We aimed to test the accuracy of IL-6 in term and preterm infants after 72 hours of life (late-onset sepsis-LOS). We searched for IL-6 diagnostic accuracy studies between 1990 and 2020 using the PubMed database. Study selection was performed. The range of reported IL-6 sensitivities and specificities was 68% to 100% and 28% to 100%, respectively, the median values were 85.7% and 82% from 15 studies including 1306 infants. Subgroup analysis was performed. Sensitivity (87% vs 82%), but not specificity (both 86%), was better in preterm infants than in preterm and term infants. Early sample collection had the highest sensitivity (84%), but the lowest specificity (86%). To assess quality we used a STARD checklist adapted for septic neonates. Limitation of this review include the heterogeneous group of studies on the one side and the small number of studies on the other side that analyzed different combinations of biomarker. We concluded that IL-6 had a good performance especially in the preterm infant population and best results are achieved by measurements at the time of LOS suspicion.

Towns emerged as dynamic economic and political centers during the Middle Ages, giving rise to the emergence of new social classes. As a result of these functions, a new relationship began to be forged with the rural world, which supplied towns with foodstuffs that satisfied new social demands. Archaeobotanical analysis (carpology) allows us to understand the flow of cash crops by tracing seeds and fruits produced in the countryside that were consumed in and redistributed from the towns. The study of waterlogged contexts from medieval archaeological sites in the Kingdom of Galicia (Santiago de Compostela, Padrón, and Pontevedra) has provided a set of species that played a crucial role in the economy of the urban dwellers and that possibly were related to differential access or food preferences. Evidence for fruits (grapes, chestnuts, figs, apples, and cherries, among others), garden crops (melon), and cereals (foxtail millet, rye, naked wheat, and oat) has been documented. Broomcorn millet is particularly abundant, demonstrating that it was important for subsistence. Some of the species found (medlar and turnip/grelo) are novel in the archaeobotanical literature of the medieval period in the Iberian Peninsula.

Evaluating genetic diversity in walnut (Juglans regia L.) populations is a rapid approach used by walnut breeding programs to distinguish superior genotypes. The present study identified the Hamedan province walnut population as one of the richest, most genetically diverse regions in Iran during 2019-2020. After initial screening, 47 genotypes were selected for further evaluation of pomological and phenological traits based on International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) descriptors. Nut and kernel weights among the selected genotypes ranged between 7.15-21.05 g and 3.0-10.8 g, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) categorized genotypes into three distinct groups while cluster analysis (CA) further categorized genotypes into one of four groups. Spearman correlation analysis showed a positive correlation (P <0.01) between nut weight (NWT), nut size, and kernel weight (KW) while a negative correlation (P <0.01) between shell thickness (STH) and packing tissue thickness (PTT) with kernel percentage (KP) was observed. Lastly, 10 of 47 genotypes (TAL8, TAL9, TAL10, TAL14, TAL19, TAL22, TB2, TB4, TB6, and RDGH5) were considered superior. Superior genotypes were late-leafing (25-40 days after the standard) and displayed a lateral bearing (LB) habit with heavy nuts (12.52–16.82 g) and kernels (6.53–8.15 g), thin-shells (1.06–1.25 mm), and lightly-colored kernels. Cuttings of superior genotypes were then grafted in the orchard. Detecting superior and late-leafing genotypes in this investigation suggests cultivars resistant to late-spring frost may soon be isolated.

In this work, we show that a late fusion approach to multi-modality in sign language recognition improves the overall ability of the model in comparison to the singular approaches of Computer Vision (88.14%) and Leap Motion data classification (72.73%). With a large synchronous dataset of 18 BSL gestures collected from multiple subjects, two deep neural networks are benchmarked and compared to derive a best topology for each. The Vision model is implemented by a CNN and optimised MLP and the Leap Motion model is implemented by an evolutionary optimised deep MLP topology search. Next, the two best networks are fused for synchronised processing which results in a better overall result (94.44%) since complementary features are learnt in addition to the original task. The hypothesis is further supported by application of the three models to a set of completely unseen data where a multi-modality approach achieves the best results relative to the single sensor method. When transfer learning with the weights trained via BSL, all three models outperform standard random weight distribution when classifying ASL, and the best model overall for ASL classification was the transfer learning multi-modality approach which scored 82.55% accuracy.

A 7.4 m long sediment core has been retrieved from the central part of Lake Vrana on the Island of Cres to reconstruct the paleoenvironmental conditions. Lake Vrana is the deepest freshwater lake in Croatia, located in the karst region of the eastern Adriatic coast. A dated sediment sequence in Lake Vrana of 4.4 m spans the past 16.4 kyr, and features a dynamic sediment deposition until the beginning of the Holocene, including strong sediment input and supply to the lake by runoff sediments of dolomitic origin from the catchment in the period 16.4-14.4 cal kyr BP. High organic carbon content, which originates from mixed terrestrial and aquatic origins in the periods 14.4-13.3 cal kyr BP and 12.7-11.7 cal kyr BP, indicates fluctuating lake levels in shallow water environments during the late glacial to Holocene transition. The Holocene sequence indicates the development of more stable conditions and continuous sediment deposition, characterized by increasing trend of siliciclastic sediments delivered into the lake during the early Holocene (11.7-10 cal kyr BP), and dominantly from 8 to 4.4 cal kyr BP, indicating enhanced input and erosion, which coincides with humid and pluvial period, recorded in the central Mediterranean region. It is followed by sediments with high organic carbon content between 4.4 to 1.6 cal kyr BP, which points to higher lake productivity. Calcite sedimentation prevail between 1.6 to 0.4 cal kyr BP, indicating stable deeper-lake conditions, while dominantly siliciclastic sediments in the period 0.4-0.1 cal kyr BP indicate erosion during Little Ice Age (LIA), with enhanced precipitation and sediment discharge from the catchment. The re-establishment of calcite sedimentation has been observed over the last 100 years.

The aim of this retrospective study was to identify myocardial injury after COVID-19 inflamation and to explore whether myocardial damage could be a possible cause of the persistent symptoms following COVID-19 infection in previously healthy individuals. The study included 139 patients who were enrolled between January-June 2021, mean age 46.7±15.2 years, 68 were men, 71 were women without known cardiac or pulmonary diseases. All patients underwent clinical work up, lab. analyses, cardiac ultrasound, and CMR on 1.5 T scanner using a recommended protocol for morphological and functional assessment before and after contrast media application with multi-parametric sequences. In 39% of patients late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) was found as a sign of myocarditis. Fibrinogen was statistically significantly higher in patients with LGE than in those without LGE, (4.3±0.23 vs 3.2±0.14g/L, p<0.05; respectively), as well as D-dimer (1.8±0.3 vs 0.8±0.1 mg/L FEU). Also troponin was statistically significantly higher in patients with myocardial LGE (13.1±0.4ng/L) compared to those with normal myocardium (4.9±0.3ng/L, p<0.001). We demonstrated chest pain, fatigue and elevated troponin to be independent predictors for LGE. Septal LGE was shown to be predictor for arrhythmias. The use of CMR is a potential risk stratification tool in evaluating outcomes following COVID-19 myocarditis.

Background: Neonatal sepsis associated with severe morbidity and mortality defines the systemic condition arising from the bacterial, viral, fungal origin associated with hemodynamic and clinical alterations. Symptomatology can be different, from subclinical to severe, focal or systemic disease. The causal agent comes from maternal flora or can be of community/hospital origin. Material and method: Our retrospective study evaluated 121 newborns (both preterm and term), divided into three groups: early onset sepsis (35), late onset sepsis (39), and control group (47), from 0 to 28 days old. Blood samples and cultures were collected at admission, after 24 hours, and 72 hours. Results: The two-sample Wilcoxon signed rank test revealed a statistically significant difference between the initial and final measures of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and ferritin within the early onset sepsis (EOS) and late onset sepsis (LOS) groups. No significant differences were observed for those two variables within the control group. There were significant differences for first and last measurements of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) (p = 0.029), leukocyte count (p = 0.002), and platelets (TR) (p = 0.00001). Conclusions: Ferritin is a potential biomarker that can be associated with systemic response and sepsis in both cases of early and late onset sepsis.

The decade of research concentrating on the area of Easter Slavonia revealed abundance of large on complex late Neolithic sites. It changed profoundly how we perceive late Neolithic settlement and space size and organization. As s first step in particular site detection we mostly conducted aerial reconnaissance and satellite image analysis but also data from the field such as excavation. On detected potential sites we conducted intensive field surveys and confirmed the attribution to the late Neolithic by surface finds. On those confirmed sites in the vicinity of Đakovo, Croatia, magnetic survey was conducted on 5 sites so far and the results confirmed presence of large scale late Neolithic settlements with complex spatial organization and enclosure(s). Most complex remains so far is site Gorjani Kremenjača and Topole which we present in this paper where a remains of one or two settlements covers the area of 70 hectares and is currently in the process of formal protection as a cultural landscape by the Ministry of Culture and Media of the Republic of Croatia. Special focus of the paper is the application of remote sensing in detection, archaeological confirmation and protection of the position Gorjani Topole.

Precise determination of the tectonothermal events at the Qinling-Qilian junction is extremely significant for understanding the tectonic evolution of the eastern branch of the Paleo-Tethys. The Banpo porphyry outcrops in the northern margin of the North Qinling were chosen as the research subject, and its formation and tectonic environment were analyzed using Zircon U-Pb age estimation and geochemical studies. The results indicated the final stage of the Triassic orogeny and the closure phase of the Paleo-Tethys. The weighted average values of 206Pb/238U ages of samples from 3 sites of the Banpo porphyry corresponded to 213.4 ±2.1 Ma (MSWD = 0.56), 213.0 ±1.6 Ma (MSWD = 0.92), and 213.2 ±4.4 Ma (MSWD = 1.6). This study revealed that the Banpo porphyry was formed during the Late Triassic (Norian). The porphyry with high SiO2 and high alkali is typical A-type granite, which belongs to the weak peraluminous shoshonite series. All the samples are rich in low rare earth elements. However, the heavy rare earth elements are low, especially Eu, which exhibits a seagull-type right-leaning partitioning curve. In addition, based on the regional geological data, it can be concluded that the Banpo porphyry was formed during the transition period from a post-orogenic environment to a non-orogenic environment. This study indicated the closure of the Paleo-Tethys-Mianxian-Lveyang Ocean by the Late Triassic as well as the completion of the collision between the North China and Yangtze Blocks along the Qinling orogenic belt.

Dietary habits, including meal frequency, meal timing, and skipping meals, have been extensively studied due to their association with the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This study describes dietary habits, meal timing, meal frequency, skipping meals, and late-night eating in Kuwaiti adults. The Kuwait National Nutrition Surveillance System data was utilized to reach the objectives of this study. The findings reveal that approximately 50% of the adults in Kuwait eat after 10 p.m., 29% skip breakfast, and 9.8% skip dinner. Furthermore, adults in Kuwait consume 4.4 meals per day on average. Women skip breakfast more often and have extended night fasting than men (p&lt;0.001). Married adults skip breakfast and dinner less than unmarried adults (p&lt;0.001). In conclusion, this descriptive study provides valuable insights into the dietary habits of Kuwaiti adults, emphasizing the importance of further investigating the association between meal timing, meal frequency, and the prevalence of NCDs in Kuwait.

Paleopeat-forming environments have an important effect on the dispersion and enrichment of trace elements in coal. The C3 coal seam of the Xuanwei Formation in eastern Yunnan was used as a case study to reconstruct the paleopeat-forming environment based on the coal facies parameters and geochemical characteristics, and its influence on trace element (including rare earth elements and yttrium, REY) enrichment was investigated. The C3 coal was classified as medium rank coking coal with an ultra-low moisture content, medium-high-ash yield, and low-medium volatile content. Compared to the average values for Chinese coals, Cu and V were enriched and Co was slightly enriched in the C3 coal. Compared with the average values for world coals, Cu and V were enriched, while several other trace elements were slightly enriched, including Co, Hf, Nb, Sc, Ta, Zn, and Zr in the C3 coal. The C3 coal was deposited in a low peat mainly limno-telmatic swamp, with deep water, weak hydrodynamic conditions, brackish to salty water, and reducing conditions. Trace elements, including Cu, V, Hf, Nb, Sc, Ta, Zr, and REY, are typically enriched in a limno-telmatic environment with fresh water, and reducing and weak hydrodynamic conditions. Additionally, REY and V are also significantly enriched in brackish water limno-telmatic conditions with the same depositional environment.

The petrogenesis of high Ba-Sr granitoids provide a great significance to penetrate the Proto-Tethys evolution in the North Qilian orogenic belt. This paper presents a combination of zircon U-Pb age, whole-rock major and trace element concentrations, and Sr-Nd-Hf isotopic data for Caowa high Ba-Sr dioritic intrusion from the eastern part of the North Qilian orogenic belt, aiming to decipher its petrogenesis and tectonic setting. LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb dating yields an emplacement age of 447±3 Ma for the Caowa intrusion, indicating a magmatic activity of the late Ordovician. The Caowa quartz diorites contain moderate contents of SiO2, MgO, Mg# and resultant high concentrations of Na2O+K2O, Fe2O3T and Al2O3, displaying calc-alkaline and metaluminous characteristics. Their relatively elevated Ba (up to 1165 ppm) and Sr (561 to 646 ppm) contents, with obvious enrichment in LILEs (e.g. Ba、Th、U) and depletion in HFSEs (e.g. Nb、Ta、Ti) resemble those of typical high Ba-Sr granitoids in subduction zone. Together with enriched Sr-Nd isotopic compositons[(87Sr/86Sr)i=0.7082−0.7086, εNd(t)= -5.1 to -4.9], and relatively extensive εHf(t) values (-13.2 to +8.5) of zircons, it suggests that these high Ba-Sr quartz diorites were derived from a mixture magma source between the ancient crust materials and the enriched lithospheric mantle metasomatised by fluid was released from subducted oceanic crust or sediment. Taking into account the ophiolites, high pressure metamorphic rocks and arc magmatic rocks in the region, we infer that affected by the northward subduction of the Qilian Proto-Tethys ocean, the Laohushan oceanic crust of the North Qilian back-arc basin was subducted during the Late Ordovician and resulted in extensive metasomatism of lithospheric mantle by fluids derived from oceanic crust or sediments, and the Caowa high Ba-Sr quartz diorites generated in the process of crust-mantle interaction during the Late Ordovician.

Fabry disease (FD) is a X-linked inheritable storage disease caused by deficiency of al-pha-galactosidase causing lysosomal overload of sphingolipids. FD cardiomyopathy is character-ized by left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and should be considered in differential diagnosis with all the other causes of LV hypertrophy. An early diagnosis of FD is very important because the enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) may change the fate of patients by blocking both cardiac and systemic involvement and improving prognosis. Diagnosis may be relatively easy in young patients with the typical signs ans symptoms of FD, but in male patients with late onset of disease and in females, diagnosis may be very challenging. Morphological and functional aspects are not specific for FD, which cannot be diagnosed or excluded by echocardiography. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with tissue characterization capability, is the preferred technique for the differential diagnosis of LV hypertrophy. The finding of decreased myocardial T1 value in LV hypertrophy is very specific for FD. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) is found in late stage of disease but it is useful to predict the cardiac response to ERT and to stratify the prognosis.

Late blight caused by the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora infestans is a devastating disease of potato and tomato worldwide, including Israel. The population structure of this pathogen was monitored in potato and tomato fields in Israel during a 36-year period of 1983-2019. Isolates of the pathogen were tested for sensitivity to phenylamide fungicides, mating type, race structure, and genotype. The phenotypic and genotypic structure of the population from potato have changed greatly from one year to another, from one season to the next, within a season and within a single field. Major changes also occurred in the population collected from tomato crops. The mechanisms driving these multiple changes and the heterogeneous nature of the population in Israel are shown to derive from multiple migration events of the pathogen via seed tubers from Europe and from fitness-driven selection processes.

This paper focuses on the role of the most common mineralogical techniques applied to the identification of the different statuary qualities in white, grey and black Göktepe marble. For this purpose, a Roman case of sculpture marble collection from the rural villa of Valdetorres de Jarama (central Iberia), of the 4th century AD, is presented. The mythological statuary, combining white, grey and black marbles, are one of the most outstanding marble collections in Aphrodisian style found in Hispania. The analytical results (Petrography, Cathodoluminescence, C and O isotopes, and Sr and Mn concentration) support the identification of two varieties of “black” Göktepe, traditionally named as bigio morato and bigo antico, as well as the best statuary quality on white Göktepe. In addition, the analytical identification of other Asiatic marbles in Valdetorres collection, a white coarse-grained originally from the quarries of Aphrodisias city and one small piece identified as Carian red from Iasos, corroborates the already suggested strong connection existing between artists and the stone material they chose for their works. Finally, it is noteworthy the identification carried out on the marble of the bases that served as seats for the sculptures, as it is a white marble of lower quality whose analytical characteristics are consistent with the Microasiatic marble of Denizli. The use of these exotic and exceptional raw materials confirms the taste for luxury and decorative richness in Late Antique Hispanic rural villae and contributes to a better understanding of the distribution of Aphrodisian productions in the Western Roman provinces.

Abstract: Background and Objectives: Holter-based late potentials (LPs) are useful for predicting lethal arrhythmias in organic cardiac diseases. Although Holter-based LPs exhibit diurnal varia-tion, no studies have evaluated the optimal timing of LP measurement over 24 h for predicting lethal arrhythmia that leads to sudden cardiac death. Thus, this study aimed to validate the most effective timing for Holter-based LP testing and to explore factors influencing diurnal variability of LP parameters. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 126 patients with post-myocardial infarction (MI) status and 60 control participants who underwent high-resolution Holter electrocardiography. Among the 126 post-MI patients, 23 developed sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) (the MI-VT group), while 103 did not (the MI-non-VT group) during the obser-vation period. Holter-based LPs were measured at 0:00, 4:00, 8:00, 12:00, 16:00, and 20:00, and heart rate variability analysis was simultaneously performed to investigate factors influencing diurnal variability of LP parameters. Results: Holter-based LP parameters showed diurnal variation with significant deterioration at night and improvement during the day. Assessment at the time with the longest duration of low-amplitude signals <40 μV in the filtered QRS complex terminus (LAS40) gave the highest receiver operating characteristics curve (area under the curve, 0.659) and the highest odds ratio (3.75; 95% confidence interval, 1.45–9.71; p=0.006) for predicting VT. In the multiple regression analysis, heart rate and noise were significant factors affecting LP parameters in the MI-VT and control groups. In the non-VT group, LP parameters were significantly influenced by noise and parasympathetic heart rate variability parameters such as logPNN50. Conclusions: For Holter-based LP measurements, test accuracy was higher when LP was measured at the time of the highest or worst value of LAS40. Changes in autonomic nervous system activity, including heart rate and noise levels, were factors influencing diurnal variability.

Running at odds with the timing imposed by the circadian clock plays an important role in the process that leads to communicable and non communicable diseases. The primary objective of this study was to analyse whether early dinner eater children were at lower risks of acute respiratory infections than late dinner eater children, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted from July to December 2020 on children attending Majorcan emergency services. Clinical data collected included timing, symptoms, laboratory tests and imaging studies of current illness. Each diagnosis was validated by general paediatricians. Our survey on dinner time habits was carried out by using self-administered questionnaires. Results: A total of 669 children under age 18 were included in the study. The median of dinner time was 8:30 pm. Late dinner eaters accounted for a higher proportion of acute otitis media than early dinner eaters (7% vs 3%; P=0.028). Other infectious diseases were not associated with dinner time habits. Conclusions: We make a preliminary estimate of the link between late dinner habits and acute otitis media in children. However, no conclusions about causality can be established due to the observational design of the study.

Background: Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous cardiomyopathy characterized by a two-layered myocardium consisting of compacted and noncompacted segments, prominent ventricular trabeculations, and intertrabecular recesses. Patients with LVNC are at increased risk to develop heart failure, atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, and/or systemic thromboembolic events. Familial forms of primary sinus bradycardia have been attributed to mutations in HCN4. There are very few reports about the association between HCN4 mutations and LVNC. The aim of our study was to characterize the clinical phenotype of families with LVNC and sinus bradycardia caused by mutation of the HCN4 gene. Methods: From March 2008 to July 2021 we prospectively enrolled 6 patients from 4 families with diagnosed isolated LVNC based on the clinical presentation, family history and echocardiographic and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) evidence of LVNC. Next generation sequencing (NGS) analysis was undertaken for evaluation of the molecular basis of the disease in each family. Results: A total of 6 children (median age 11 years) were enrolled and followed prospectively for the median of 12 years. All 6 patients were diagnosed with LVNC by echocardiography and 5 participants additionally by CMR. The presence of LGE was found in 3 children. Sinus bradycardia and dilation of the ascending aorta occurred in 5 studied patients. In 4 patients from 3 families the molecular studies demonstrated the presence of rare heterozygous HCN4 mutations. Conclusion: (1) The HCN4 mutation influences the presence of a complex LVNC phenotype, sinus bradycardia and dilation of the ascending aorta. (2) HCN4 mutation may be associated with the early presentation of clinical symptoms and the severe course of the disease. (3) It is particularly important to assess myocardial fibrosis not only within the ventricles, but also in the atria in patients with LVNC and sinus bradycardia.

Geochemists disagree whether or not prebiotic chemistry has existed already during the Hadean Eon and whether the then terrestrial atmosphere has been strongly or weakly reduced. Here I argue that cellular life has existed already just after the end of the Hadean Eon and that terrestrial life has survived a number of cataclysms during the Earth's history. I argue that although organic molecules have been detected in meteorites that most organic molecules required for the formation of macromolecules must have been formed on Earth. Finally, I argue that the primitive terrestrial atmosphere during the Hadean Eon has been weakly reduced, so that amino acids and small nucleic acids could have been formed. I suggest that the first self-replicable macromolecules have been similar to viroids.

To analyze the predictive ability and incremental value of left ventricular longitudinal axis strain (LAS) and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) using standard cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging for the diagnosis and prognosis of severe aortic stenosis (AS) in patients with an indication for aortic valve replacement. We conducted a prospective study on 128 patients with severe AS and 52 volunteers. The evaluation protocol included standard biochemistry tests, novel biomarkers of myocardial fibrosis, 12-lead electrocardiograms and 24-hour Holter, the 6-minute walk test and extensive echocardiographic and CMR imaging studies. Outcomes were defined as the composite of major cardiovascular events (MACEs). Among AS patients, most (n = 17, 77.2%) of those who exhibited LGE at CMR imaging had MACEs during follow-up. Kaplan-Meier curves for event-free survival showed a significantly higher rate of MACEs in patients with LGE (p < 0.01) and decreased LAS (p < 0.001). In Cox regression analysis, only reduced LAS [hazard ratio 1.33, 95%CI (1.01 to 1.74), p < 0.01] and the presence of LGE [hazard ratio 11.3, 95%CI (1.82 to 70.0), p < 0.01] were independent predictors for MACEs. The predictive value increased if both LGE and reduced LAS were added to LVEF. None of the biomarkers of increased collagen turnover exhibited any predictive value for MACEs. LAS by CMR is an independent predictor of outcomes in patients with AS and provides incremental value beyond the assessment of LVEF and the presence of LGE.

Purpose: Despite significant improvements in early detection of breast cancer, some patients still require mastectomy. One clinical problem currently being analyzed is the possibility of preserving the areola-nipple complex (NAC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment results of breast cancer patients who underwent mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction with sparing of the NAC. Methods: 335 patients who underwent mastectomy with breast reconstruction – with sparing (group I: 300 patients) or removal of NAC (group II: 35 patients), treated in the period 07.2014-06.2020. In the study groups, the length of overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were determined – up to 24 months after the end of treatment (short-term results) and up to 80 months (long-term results). The mean follow-up time of patients was 55.6 ± 19.7 months. Results: In 50 patients (14.9%), recurrence of neoplastic disease was observed (in group I: 14.7%, in group II: 17.1%; p=0.6972). It was most often a recurrence of cancer in the scar after mastectomy – in 25 patients (respectively: 7.7% vs 5.7%; p=0.6775) or distant metastases – in 16 patients (4.0% vs 11.4%; p=0.051). A total of 10 deaths were observed (6 – 2.0% vs 4 – 11.4%; p=0.0019). A total of 37 patients (10.7% vs 14.3%) required removal of their implant, mainly due to symptoms of infection – in 24 cases (7.3% vs 5.7%). Conclusion: Preserving the NAC is a safe therapeutic procedure in patients undergoing mastectomy with the option of reconstructive treatment. In both groups of patients, similar early and late treatment results were obtained.

Flares, sometimes accompanied by coronal mass ejections (CMEs), are the result of sudden changes in the magnetic field of stars with high energy release through magnetic reconnection, which can be observed across a wide range of the electromagnetic spectrum from radio waves to the optical range to X-rays. In our review, we attempt to collect some fundamental new results, which can largely be linked to the Big data era that has arrived due to the expansion of space photometric observations of the last two decades. We list the different types of stars showing flare activity, their observation strategies, and discuss how their main stellar properties relate to the characteristics of the flares (or even CMEs) they emit. Our goal is to focus, without claiming to be complete, on those results that may in one way or another challenge the "standard" flare model based on the solar paradigm.

Climate change is affecting the production of temperate fruit crops. Freeze damage, particularly in spring, has resulted in significant economic losses in peach production in the southeastern United States. Research efforts in peach and other Prunus species have primarily focused on dormancy-related traits associated with bloom time, such as chill and heat requirement, with fruitlet freeze tolerance not equally represented. This study reports fruitlet freeze tolerance in 75 peach and nectarine accessions at six freezing temperatures (0 to -10ºC) using electrolyte leakage method over two seasons (2022-2023). Fruitlet freeze tolerance ranged from -3.94 to -10.22 °C with an estimated damage ranging from 16-48% with the majority of the accessions showing tolerance to cold temperatures in the -4 to -6ºC and 25-35% range. Variability in tolerance was noted across years, including some inconsistencies between tolerance group assignments. Grouping based on the estimated damage showed better stability and some accessions changed their grouping from the extremes to an intermediate tolerance group. Interestingly, nectarine accessions were among most tolerant in both seasons. Broad-sense heritability of 0.52 and 0.85, for freeze tolerance and estimated damage, respectively, suggested genetic control of this trait with a potential for improvement via breeding.

Objectives: To develop a multivariate model for risk factors specific to early onset preeclampsia (EOP) and late onset preeclampsia (LOP) in our entire population (singleton and twin pregnancies). Material and methods: 20 year-observational population-based historical cohort study (2001-2020). All consecutive births delivered at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hospitalier Sud Reunion’s maternity. A standardized validated epidemiological perinatal data base. Results: During the 20-year period, there were 81,834 pregnancies and 83,555 infants born, 1232 dichorionic and 350 monochorionic twin pregnancies. There were 2120 cases of preeclampsia, of which 2001preeclamptic singleton pregnancies and 119 twin pregnancies (incidence 7.5% in twin pregnancies vs 2.5% singletons, OR 3.0, p<0.001). Independent risk factors for EOP and LOP in a multivariate model (controlling for the two major confounders: namely maternal ages -both risks for EOP and LOP- and maternal pre-pregnancy BMI – specific risk factor for LOP) were: history of preeclampsia (aOR 11.7 for EOP, 7.8 for LOP, p < 0.0001), chronic hypertension (aOR 7.3 for EOP, 3.9 for LOP, p < 0.0001), history of perinatal death (aOR 2.2 for EOP, p < 0.0001 and 1.48 for LOP, p= 0.007), primipaternity (aOR 3.0 for EOP and 3.6 for LOP, p = 0.001), dizygotic twin pregnancies (aOR 3.7 for EOP, p < 0.0001 and 2.1 for LOP, p = 0.003), monozygotic twin pregnancies (aOR 3.98 for EOP, p = 0.003 and NS for LOP), ovulation induction (aOR 5.6 for EOP, p = 0.004 and NS for LOP), and in vitro fertilization (aOR 2.8 for EOP, p = 0.05 and NS for LOP). Specific to LOP and NS for EOP: renal diseases (aOR for LOP 2.9, p= 0.007) and gestational diabetes mellitus (aOR 1.2, p= 0.04). Conclusions: Maternal ages over 35 years, chronic hypertension , history of preeclampsia, ovulation induction, in vitro fertilizations, history of perinatal deaths and twin pregnancy (in our experience, especially mono zygotic twin pregnancies) are significant risk factors for EOP. New paternity is an independent factor for both EOP and LOP.

We take what we see, hear, smell and feel for the reality. However, as neuroscientists, we know that this reality, that is, our perceptual world, is in fact made up by the brain from the processing of the nerve impulses coming from receptors. Ancient Greeks used to think that this perceptual world, sometimes called our 3D movie (Chalmers), is emitted and has its own physical nature. Given how real the 3D movie looks to us, it is still difficult today to consider that all we would be dealing with would be patterns of brain activity The present study thus aimed at testing whether the perceptual world could have some physical existence in addition to that of the neural patterns responsible for it. To achieve that goal, we tried to see whether brains could be sensitive to the 3D movie of others. This, admittedly unusual, operational hypothesis was based on two assumptions. First, brains are sensitive to the 3D movie, as our experience includes reactions to our perceptual world. Second, the physicality at stake does not differ across individuals. We recorded the event-related brain potentials (ERPs) evoked by stimuli of the international affective picture system in pairs of closely-related participants. Most importantly, they could neither see the stimuli simultaneously presented to their partners nor their reactions to them. As in Bouten et al. (2015), around 400 ms after the onset of the stimuli, ERPs started being more positive in inconsistent conditions. Namely, when the two subjects of each pair were presented with the same stimulus whereas they were told it would be a different one and vice-versa (i.e., different-stimuli expected to be same). ERPs were less positive when the two subjects of a pair were presented with the same stimuli and were told they were the same and conversely (i.e., different-stimuli expected to be different). The same experiment was then run in pairs of strangers. No significant effect of consistency on ERPs was observed even though participants could, this time, see, in the very periphery of their visual field, the reactions of their partner to the stimuli. We thus use the results of both studies to support a new version of the emission theory of consciousness and to suggest that the sensitivity to the perceptual world of others may depend on their prior familiarity with it.

Athletes living with and beyond cancer can continue to train and, in some cases, compete during treatment. Following cancer treatment, athletes can return to competitive sport but need to learn to adapt their physical strength and training to lingering effects of cancer. It is critical for oncology healthcare providers to use the principles of assess, refer and advise to exercise oncology programs that are appropriate for the individual. Managing side effects of treatment is key to being able to train during and immediately following cancer treatment. Keen attention to fatigue is important at any point in the cancer spectrum to avoid overtraining and optimize the effects of training.

The Late Bronze Age on the territory of Southern Transurals is represented by two major archeological cultures: Srubnaya and Andronovskaya (Alakul culture and Fyodorovskaya – type). Their interaction of constitutes a special mix of material cultures which preserves common features of two independent, Srubnaya and Andronovskaya cultures, but also creates novel local material features. These cultural groups are also known to have brought to the region the technology of bronze production. This is evidenced, amongst others, by the proximity of the largest copper mining in the region, Kargaly mines Chernykh (2002). New methods to produce ceramics and to work bones were also developed, combining two traditions, coming from Srubnaya and Andronovskaya cultures respectively. Importantly, the features of these cultures are commonly encountered together in a single cultural horizon across the distribution ares. These diffusion processes took place in a vast area (more than 120,000 km²) andwere reflected in archeological micro-district of the Urshak river basin. We present here the most recent results of the scientific examination of the Late Bronze Age settlements in southern Transurals and attempt to address a peculiar cultural co-habitation of two distinct cultural groups in this region. We also discuss their synchronism based on absolute dates and elaborate on this cultural syncretism in the entire territory of the Volga-Ural region.

Mastitis-causing bacteria can establish persistent infections in the mammary gland of commercially important dairy animals despite the presence of strong specific humoral and cellular immune mechanisms. The aim of this study was to encapsulate vitamin D3 by complex coacervation with sulfur-saturated bovine lactoferrin-alginate using microbial transglutaminase-catalyzed crosslinking and investigate the oral administration of encapsulated vitamin D3 in blood serum biomarkers of the immune response in late-lactating dairy goats. Dairy goats (n = 18) in late lactation were randomly assigned to three experimental groups (n = 6), after balancing weight. Dairy goats were orally administered with 0.35 mg vitamin D3/day in the unencapsulated form and 0.35 mg vitamin D3/day in the encapsulated powder form. Another group received the basal diet. The experimental period lasted 6 weeks. The blood serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25-(OH)-D3], lactoferrin, immunoglobulin A (IgA), and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) were measured. The delivery of vitamin D3 to dairy goats resulted in a marked increase of 25-(OH)-D3 concentration in serum while the serum level of lactoferrin also increased. Alternatively, the serum levels of IgA and the immunomodulatory cytokine INF-γ were elevated following supplementation with the encapsulated vitamin D3. Overall, the capsules in the powder form used in this study kept vitamin D3 highly bioavailable.

This prospective single-center study was designed to assess the clinical utility of the FilmArray® blood culture identification (BCID) panel for improving the diagnostic accuracy in neonatal sepsis. Results obtained using the FilmArray® BCID panel were correlated with results of blood culture in all consecutive neonates with suspicion of early-onset (EOS) and late-onset sepsis (LOS) attended in our service over a 2-year period. A total of 102 blood cultures from 92 neonates were included, 69 (67.5%) in cases of EOS and 33 (32.3%) in LOS. The FilmArray® BCID panel was performed in negative culture bottles at a median of 10 hours of blood culture incubation (range 7.5-20 hours), without differences by the type of sepsis. The FilmArray® BCID panel showed a 66.7% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value, and 95.7% negative predictive value. There were four false-negative cases, three of which of Streptococcus epidermidis in neonates with LOS and one case of Granulicatella adiacens in one neonate with EOS. We conclude that the use of the FilmArray® BCID panel in negative blood cultures from neonates with clinical suspicion of sepsis is useful in decision-making of starting or early withdrawal of empirical antimicrobials because of the high specificity and negative predictive values of this assay.

A study of Bianchi Type I cosmological model is undertaken in the framework of creation of particles. To accommodate the creation of new particles, the universe is regarded as an Open thermodynamical system. The energy conservation equation is modified with the incorporation of a creation pressure in the energy momentum tensor. Exact solutions of the field equations are obtained (i) for a particular choice of the particle creation function and (ii) by considering the deceleration parameter to be constant. In the first model the behavior of the solution at late times is investigated. The physical aspects of the model have also been discussed. In the case of the second model we have restricted our analysis to the power law behaviour for the average scale factor. This leads to a particular form for the particle creation function. The behavior of the solution is investigated and the physical aspects of the model have also been discussed for the matter dominated era.

We introduce and analyze conceptual approximations of the Boussinesq equation for horizontal unconfined aquifers during the pure drainage phase, without any reharge and zero-inflow conditions. We employ a variety of methods, which include wave solution, variable separation and series expansion to constract a new model and explore its behavior and performance against the Boussinesq equation and its exact (non-closed form) solution, at early and later times. The modeled non-linear forms are finally linearized concluding with explicit analytical expressions that incorporate most of the basic characteristics regarding the evolution of the water table and the outflow from the exact Boussinesq equation under different initial conditions. The endeavors of this work might be useful for theoretical and modeling purposes related to this problem.

The craft guilds have been at the core of important historiographical debates on the economic, social and political history of medieval cities for twenty years. The aim of this article is to examine the seamen’s guilds in the town ports of Northern Peninsula in the late Middle Ages. This study analyzes fundamental aspects of the social assistance, labour organization and social identity of the town ports, located on the maritime border of the Kingdom of Castile. In contrast to the more classical view of the craft guilds as protectionist institutions, which only served the interests of a privileged group of masters, this analysis highlights the contribution of the seamen craft guilds to the organization of labor at sea, the training of sea workers, the ability to negotiate with merchants and avoid labor exploitation, the provision of social assistance to the most vulnerable population, and the ability to lead the social protest for the guilders’ representation in the urban government. In summary, it is concluded that the seafarers’ guilds were constituted as networks of mutual help between individuals in the labor, welfare and political spheres of the population of the town ports of Northern Iberia in the late Middle Ages.

Plums are primarily marketed for fresh consumption, canning, freezing, jam and jelly. Unfortunately, plum consumption has remained steady or declined. Consumers complain about a lack of flavor quality but are willing to pay for higher quality. Thus, lack of flavor and cold storage disorders are the main barriers to consumption. Plum cultivars are susceptible to gel breakdown, flesh browning and ‘off flavors’. Consumer acceptance and postharvest life are highly dependent on genotype, quality attributes, harvest date and proper postharvest handling. A consumer quality index (CQI) based on soluble solids concentration (SSC) and minimum firmness is proposed to maximize flavor and postharvest life. In most cases, late harvest increases quality attributes. Our work and industry experience demonstrated that using critical bruising thresholds (CBT) based on minimum firmness measured at harvest acts as a reliable predictor of how late to harvest safely for maximum visual and sensory quality. Plums are well adapted to late harvest because of their low susceptibility to bruising damage, but proper postharvest temperature management and marketing within the potential market life are necessary to maintain flavor and avoid the onset of storage disorders. Thus, to maximize flavor and postharvest life, a CQI based on SSC and minimum firmness measured at consumption is proposed. This article provides guidance on using this CQI, combined with proper postharvest handling techniques such as correct harvest date determination and temperature management, to maintain quality and increase consumption.

Introduction: Some of the practices in medicine are carried out of habit without proven benefits. This is the case of premature babies from 30 to 34 weeks of gestation who are always given parenteral fluids, even though this practice has been associated with an increase incidence of infection. At the end of 2017, we started a protocol of rationalization in the use of parenteral fluid. To administer nutrition/fluids, we used oral fluids by suction if this was possible or otherwise by oral/nasogastric tube at volumes of 70-80 mL/Kg/day divided every 3 hours, with 5 mL increments every 12-24 hours until 200 mL/K/day was achieved, always using breast milk when possible. Material and methods: The present study sought to compare results before and after this new policy. For this work, we review all premature babies between 30-34 weeks of gestation in two time periods, the first from 01/01/2010 to 12/31/2017 and the second from 01/01/2018 to 08/15/2022. The number of cases with and without parenteral fluids (PF), the incidence of infection, the weight at admission and discharge, and the change in the weight Z score between birth and discharge were compared. Both the anthropometric and outcome variables were compared using the different statistical methods according to each variable. Results: were found 920 cases with the described characteristics. The groups before and after the intervention did not show significant differences in their general demographic characteristics. We observed a decrease use of PF in the second period, from 425 cases (82.0%) before to 297 (26.2%) after implementation, p <0.0001 and fewer days of use (4.1 days/average before vs 1.3 after, p <0.0001) of PF. The weight at discharge and the change in weight Z-score were the same in both groups. Infections went from nine cases before to two cases after but it was not statistically significant. There were no complications due to less use of PF. Discussion: This study showed that the use of PF is not associated with significant changes in outcomes of interest, which reinforces that its use does not generate any benefit for the patient. Larger number of cases is required to detect differences in low incidence events such as infections.

Management of crowding at subway platform is essential to improving services, preventing train delays and ensuring passenger safety. Establishing effective measures to mitigate crowding at platform requires accurate estimation of actual crowding levels. At present, there are temporal and spatial constraints since subway platform crowding is assessed only at certain locations, done every 1~2 years, and counting is performed manually Notwithstanding, data from smart cards is considered real-time big data that is generated 24 hours a day and thus, deemed appropriate basic data for estimating crowding. This study proposes the use of smart card data in creating a model that dynamically estimates crowding. It first defines crowding as demand, which can be translated into passengers dynamically moving along a subway network. In line with this, our model also identifies the travel trajectory of individual passengers, and is able to calculate passenger flow, which concentrates and disperses at the platform, every minute. Lastly, the level of platform crowding is estimated in a way that considers the effective waiting area of each platform structure.

Issues related to the duration of university studies, have attracted the interest of many researchers from different scientific fields, as far back as the middle of the 20th century. In this study, a Survival Analysis methodology, and more specifically a Cox Proportional hazards model, has been pro-posed to evaluate a theoretical framework/model that relates the risk a student either graduating on time or having a late graduation, with a number of observed and latent factors that have been proposed in the literature as the main determinants of degree completion. The major findings of the analysis suggest that the factors contributing to the shortening of the duration of studies in-clude high academic achievements at early stages, positive motivation, expectations, attitudes, and beliefs about studies. On the contrary, external situations, negative academic experiences and some individual characteristics of the students contribute to an extended duration of studies.

The microvessel neurovascular unit with its brain endothelial cell (BEC) and blood-brain barrier remodeling is important in the development of impaired cognition in sporadic or late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) and vascular dementia or vascular cognitive impairment and dementia including cerebral amyloid angiopathy in neurodegeneration. LOAD is considered to be the number one cause of dementia globally; however, when one considers the role of mixed dementia (MD) (the combination of both the amyloid cascade hypothesis and the vascular hypothesis of LOAD), it becomes apparent that MD is the number one cause. The microvessel BECs are the first cells in the brain to be exposed to the peripheral neurotoxins of the systemic circulation and are therefore the brain cells at the highest risk for early and chronic injury. Therefore, it is not surprising that microvessel BECs are the first cells to undergo injury and the response to injury wound healing mechanism and remodeling that is excessive and recurrent in the aging process plus other age-related diseases such as cerebro-cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, Parkinson’s disease, plus others. This narrative review explores the intricate relationship between microvessel remodeling, cerebral small vessel disease (SVD), and neurodegeneration as occurs in LOAD. Further, it discusses the current understanding of how microvessel dysfunction, disruption, and pathology contribute to the pathogenesis of LOAD and thus, highlights potential avenues for therapeutic interventions.

Acute encephalopathy with biphasic seizures and reduced diffusion (AESD) is characterized by biphasic seizures following febrile viral infections and delayed reduced diffusion of the cerebral white matter on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) (bright tree appearance, BTA). However, hypoxic encephalopathy with biphasic seizures and AESD-mimicking imaging findings has not been reported. Herein, we report an case of hypoxic encephalopathy due to suffocation with concomitant biphasic seizures and BTA, mimicking AESD. On day 1, a 5-month-old female was found face down with breathing cessation and deteriorating consciousness level. The electroencephalography (EEG) revealed periodic epileptic discharges, suggesting possible nonconvulsive status epilepticus. Despite the improvements in consciousness level and EEG abnormalities on day 2, her consciousness level deteriorated again with generalized tonic-clonic seizures on day 3, and head MRI-DWI revealed restricted diffusion predominantly in the subcortical areas, suggesting BTA. Treatment for acute encephalopathy resolved clinical sei-zures and EEG abnormalities. The persistence of abnormal EEG, reflecting abnormal excitation and accumulation of neurotoxic substances caused by hypoxia, may have contributed to the devel-opment of AESD-like findings. As hypoxic encephalopathy causes AESD-like biphasic seizures, monitoring the consciousness level, seizure occurrence, and EEG abnormalities even after acute symptoms have temporarily improved following hypoxia is essential.

The micropaleontological study (radiolarians and foraminifera) of the sediment core AMK-340, Reykjanes Ridge, North Atlantic, combined with the radiocarbon dating and Oxygen/Carbon isotopic record, provided data for the reconstruction of the summer paleotemperature on the water depth of 100 m, and paleoenvironments during the Termination I in the age interval of 14.5–8 ka. The response of the main microfossil species on the paleoceanographic changes within the Bølling-Allerød (BA) warming, the Younger Dryas (YD) cold event, and final transition to the warm Holocene was different. The BA warming was well reflected in the radiolarian and benthic but not planktic foraminiferal record. The high abundances of the cold-water radiolarian species Amphimelissa setosa as the Greenland/Iceland Sea indicator marked a cooling at the end of the BA and within the start of the YD at 13.2–12.3 ka. The micropaleontological and isotopic data together with the paleotemperature estimates for the Reykjanes Ridge at 60° N document that, after the warm BA, the middle YD ca. 12.5–12.2 ka was the next significant step toward the Holocene warming. Start of the Holocene interglacial conditions was reflected in abundant occurrence of the microfossils being indicators of the open boreal North Atlantic environments and lower oxygen isotope values indicating increasing warmth.

(1) Background: Benefits and timing of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) COVID-19 patients are still controversial. PDT is considered a high risk procedure for transmission of SARS CoV-2 to health care workers (HCWs). The present study analyzed optimal timing of PDT, clinical outcomes of patients undergoing PDT and safety of HCWs performing PDT. (2) Methods: 133 COVID-19 patients underwent PDT in our ICU from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021, 23 patients were excluded and 110 patients were enrolled. A trained medical team was dedicated to the PDT procedure. Demographic, clinical history and outcome data were collected. Patients who underwent PDT were stratified into two groups: early group, PDT ≤ 12 days from orotracheal-intubation (OTI) and late group, &gt;12 days from OTI; HCW surveillance program was performed. (3) Results: Early group included 57 patients and late group included 53 patients. Early group patients showed shorter ICU length of stay and fewer days of mechanical ventilation than the late group (p&lt;0.001). At day 7 after tracheostomy, early group patients required fewer intravenous anesthetic drugs and experienced an improvement of ventilation parameters, PaO2/FiO2-Ratio, PEEP and FiO2 (p&lt;0.001). No difference in case fatality ratio between the two groups was reported. No SARS-CoV-2 infection was reported in HCWs performing PDT. (4) Conclusions: PDT was safe and effective for COVID-19 patients, since it improved respiratory support parameters, reduced ICU length of stay and duration of mechanical ventilation, and optimized the weaning process. The procedure was safe for all HCWs involved in the dedicated medical team. The development of standardized early PDT protocols should be implemented and PDT procedure could be considered as first line approach in ICU COVID-19 requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation.

We consider an alternative hypothesis of crater formation -- through an electric discharge machining (EDM) of the celestial bodies' surfaces. The source of the energy and the current itself may lie in the plasma infalling on a celestial body (from an extremely strong solar outburst or a nearby supernova). This mechanism may have been even more important than impact cratering in the early Solar System, with potential implications to the history of the dynamics of the System itself and solar activity in particular. In this light, the conclusion that shocked and metamorphosed minerals found within crater sites are evidence of hypervelocity impacts might be reconsidered. There are ambiguities that remain among sources of mineralogical formations. This study is ongoing with details of investigations supporting a new approach to crater formation not yet exhausted. Apart from mineralogical analysis and theoretical considerations regarding the large scale crater formation, we present a description of experimental studies of EDM acting at low pressures. Experimental results are made with crude setups and could easily be replicated on a larger scale with valuable research potential, as there is a well understood relation between the crater size and the energy needed for its production.

The first reports of the acute and often fatal illness known as the “English Sweat” are from 1485 and its last known outbreak was in 1551. During this period, the Sweat produced only five epidemic waves. Except for one outbreak which spread to the northern part of the continent of Europe in 1529, the Sweat was confined almost exclusively to England, with only anecdotal reports of isolated infections in other parts of the British Isles. The Sweat was thus only a minor component in the panorama of infectious disease affecting mediaeval and early modern Europe. Nevertheless, it continues to fascinate both medical historians and modern infectious disease biologists – the latter group now often engaged in competing exercises in retrospective diagnosis. This paper seeks to explore the reasons for such enduring interest, using the Early English Books Online (EEBO) text corpus to analyse the various contexts in which the Sweat was discussed up to 1700. EEBO shows that references to the Sweat occur repeatedly in astrological and religious discourses, especially from the mid-17^th century onwards. Four salient examples are examined in detail. It is proposed that the cultural memory of the Sweat, in the 150 years following its disappearance, was kept disproportionately alive not so much by accounts of its alarming symptoms but more due to its metaphorical and illustrative utility in non-medical discourse.

This literature review investigates the role of plumage in the hunting tactics of Velociraptor, integrating anatomical analysis and biomechanical modeling. Velociraptor, a swift and agile theropod from the Late Cretaceous, exhibited advanced intelligence and sensory capabilities that contributed to its effective predatory strategies. Recent discoveries have confirmed that Velociraptor was covered in feathers, with quill knobs indicating well-developed plumage. This review explores the potential functions of feathers beyond flight, focusing on their impact on hunting behavior. Evidence suggests that Velociraptor’s plumage likely facilitated camouflage and enhanced aerodynamic control, improving its stealth and maneuverability during high-speed chases. Additionally, feathers might have contributed to stability during incline running, further supporting its adaptability in diverse environments. Velociraptor’s hunting strategies, characterized by agility and precision, were complemented by its feathered anatomy, which may have also played a role in pack hunting and social interactions. Overall, the integration of plumage with Velociraptor’s anatomical features and behavioral adaptations underscores its efficiency as a predator, demonstrating how feathers may have been a critical factor in its successful hunting tactics.

Introduction: Despite more than one year passed since the first cases of SARS-CoV-2 were reported, there is still no consensus on the definition and clinical management of post-acute-COVID-19. The condition has heterogeneously been named as Chronic COVID syndrome, Post COVID-19 Syndrome, post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), and the more familiar long COVID. Method: In order to capture all relevant published studies, we undertook a multi-step search with no language restriction. The following four-step search strategy was utilized: First, a preliminary (limited) search was conducted on January 20, 2021, in Google Scholar and PubMed to identify the appropriate keywords. Then, on January 30, 2021, we adopted a search strategy of electronic databases from Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of sciences, using those keywords. Then, after duplicate removal, we screened all titles, abstracts, and full texts. This resulted in 66 eligible studies. Subsequently, after a forward and backward search of their references and citations an additional 54 publications were found, resulting in a total of 120 publications that formed the basis of the present analysis. The titles, abstracts, and full-texts of non-English articles were translated using Google Translate for further evaluation. We conducted our scoping review based on the PRISMA-ScR Checklist.Results: We found only one randomized clinical trial in our search. Of the 67 original studies, 22 were cohort and 28 were cross-sectional studies totaling 74.6% of the original studies. Of the total of 120 publications, 59 (49.1%) focused on signs and symptoms, 28 (23.3%) were focused on management, and 13 (10.8%) focused on pathophysiology. Ten (9%) publications focused on imaging studies. Ninety-one percent of the original investigations came from high and upper-middle-income countries, highlighting the scarcity of reports originating from low-income and lower-middle-income countries.Conclusion: The predominant symptoms among those with the so-called “Long COVID” were: fatigue, breathlessness, arthralgia, sleep difficulties, and chest pain. Recent reports also point to the risk of long-term sequela with cutaneous, respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, mental health, neurologic, and renal involvement in those who survive the acute phase of the illness. The ambiguity and controversies in its definition have impaired proper recognition and management of those requiring additional support following the resolution of the acute phase of this infection. This has resulted in long-standing distress for the patients and their families. Our findings highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach, support, and rehabilitation for these patients in terms of long-term mental and physical health.

Ankylosaurus stands as a quintessential example of Cretaceous armored dinosaurs, renowned for its formidable defensive adaptations. This study explores the defensive mechanisms and paleoecology of Ankylosaurus, focusing on its unique armor and lifestyle. Through detailed morphological analysis of fossil specimens, we examine the structure and function of the robust osteoderms and the prominent tail club, evaluating their roles in defense against predators. The distribution and arrangement of these defensive features suggest a sophisticated strategy to deter and survive attacks from contemporary theropods. Additionally, we investigate the paleoenvironmental context of Ankylosaurus, assessing how its habitat and ecological interactions influenced its evolutionary adaptations. Comparative analysis with other ankylosaurids and contemporaneous species provides insights into the evolutionary pressures shaping its armor. Our findings highlight the balance between offensive and defensive strategies in the Late Cretaceous ecosystem, underscoring the role of Ankylosaurus as both a well-protected herbivore and a critical component of its ecological niche. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of armored dinosaurs and their interaction with their environment, offering a comprehensive perspective on the adaptations that defined Ankylosaurus' survival strategy.

This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of the functional morphology and paleoecology of Pteranodon, a prominent genus of Pterosaur from the Late Cretaceous period. By synthesizing recent research findings with classic studies, this paper elucidates the aerodynamic and ecological adaptations of Pteranodon, which was one of the largest pterosaurs to ever soar the skies. The review examines the distinctive cranial features, including its elongated cranial crest and its implications for sexual dimorphism and species identification. Detailed analysis of wing morphology and limb proportions reveals insights into its flight mechanics, suggesting that Pteranodon was adapted for dynamic soaring, leveraging its expansive wingspan for efficient long-distance travel. Additionally, the paper explores Pteranodon's feeding habits and dietary preferences based on dental and jaw structure, indicating a diet primarily consisting of fish and other aquatic prey. The review also integrates fossil evidence with ecological models to reconstruct the paleoenvironment of the Late Cretaceous, highlighting the role of Pteranodon in its ecosystem as both a predator and a competitor. This synthesis not only enhances our understanding of Pteranodon’s physiological and ecological roles but also contributes to broader discussions on pterosaur evolution and behavior.

Therizinosaurs, a unique clade of theropod dinosaurs, are characterized by their distinct morphological features and enigmatic ecological role. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the functional morphology and ecological significance of these remarkable dinosaurs. Therizinosaurs are distinguished by their elongated, often curved claws, robust postcranial skeletons, and herbivorous diet, which starkly contrasts with their carnivorous theropod relatives. We explore the evolutionary implications of their morphology, focusing on adaptations such as their specialized feeding apparatus and limb structure. These features suggest a complex interplay between their herbivorous lifestyle and ecological niche. The review synthesizes recent findings from fossil evidence, including detailed studies of cranial and postcranial anatomy, to elucidate the functional mechanisms behind their unique adaptations. Additionally, we discuss the broader ecological role of therizinosaurs within their Mesozoic ecosystems, highlighting their interactions with contemporaneous flora and fauna. By integrating paleontological data with comparative anatomy and ecological modeling, this review aims to shed light on the evolutionary trajectory of therizinosaurs and their impact on our understanding of theropod diversity and adaptation. This focused review contributes to a more nuanced appreciation of therizinosaurs' place in dinosaur evolution and their adaptive strategies in prehistoric environments.

This literature review investigates the morphological and behavioral significance of the horns of Carnotaurus sastrei, a theropod dinosaur from the Late Cretaceous period. Through a comprehensive analysis of fossil specimens, comparative anatomy, and biomechanical modeling, this review explores the evolutionary adaptations and potential functions of these distinctive cranial structures. The horns of Carnotaurus are hypothesized to serve multiple roles, including species recognition, thermoregulation, and intraspecific combat. Our findings suggest that its cranial horns likely served a primary role in species recognition, intimidating rivals and signaling mating readiness. It also could have been used occasionally in head-butting contests, potentially as a display of dominance, but likely did not play a role in thermoregulation. Additionally, we examine the ecological context in which Carnotaurus lived, assessing how environmental factors could have influenced the development of such features. The implications of this study extend to broader discussions on the functional morphology and adaptive strategies of theropod dinosaurs, highlighting the complex relationship between form and function in the evolutionary history of predatory dinosaurs like Carnotaurus sastrei.