Search Results (414)

The Chenghai Fault Zone is a major active intrablock structure within the Sichuan–Yunnan Block at the southeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau and exhibits pronounced along-strike kinematic segmentation. However, the Quaternary left-lateral slip rate of its central Qina segment remains poorly constrained. Here, we integrate field investigations, remote-sensing geomorphic mapping, UAV photogrammetry, and U-series dating to investigate the fault-offset Qiaonan paleolandslide along the Jinjiang Fault. The Qina segment consists mainly of the NNE-striking Qina and Jinjiang faults, which together form an overall left-stepping fault system dominated by left-lateral strike-slip motion. Geomorphic restoration of well-preserved landslide margins using high-resolution UAV-derived orthophotos and digital surface models indicates a cumulative left-lateral displacement of approximately 100 m. Independent DEM-based restoration yields a horizontal displacement of ~97 m, providing a consistent estimate of the fault offset. U-series dating of secondary carbonate cement within the landslide deposit yields a ^230Th–U age of 257.7 ± 3.2 ka. Because the dated carbonate precipitated after landslide emplacement, this age provides only a minimum-age constraint on the paleolandslide. Consequently, the calculated apparent left-lateral slip rate of ~0.39–0.47 mm/yr should be regarded as an upper-bound estimate rather than a precisely determined slip rate for the Jinjiang Fault. The Jinjiang Fault also left-laterally offsets the Jinsha River by ~3.04–3.25 km. Assuming that this displacement began to accumulate with the initiation of the Dali faulted-basin system at ca. 7.6 Ma, the corresponding long-term average slip rate is ~0.40–0.43 mm/yr. However, this estimate depends on an assumed fault-initiation age and therefore represents an end-member long-term average. When considered together with previous interpretations of possible fault-activity migration within the Chenghai Fault Zone, the Quaternary upper-bound rate is compatible with, but does not demonstrate, a reduction in the left-lateral strike-slip component during the Late Cenozoic. Such temporal variations may reflect changes in deformation partitioning among intrablock faults within the Dali faulted-basin system, although this interpretation remains tentative and requires additional chronological and slip-rate constraints. Our results demonstrate the potential of fault-offset paleolandslides to provide valuable geomorphic and chronological constraints on the Quaternary behavior of slowly slipping intrablock faults, while highlighting the importance of independent chronological control for resolving long-term variations in fault slip. Full article

Dental resin composites are widely used for direct restorations, yet their longevity remains limited by biofilm accumulation and secondary caries at the tooth–restoration interface. Unlike previous reviews that have primarily organized antibacterial dental materials according to antimicrobial agents or mechanisms, this narrative review evaluates antibacterial resin composites from a polymer-composite design perspective, integrating molecular architecture, network immobilization, filler–matrix interactions, polymerization, and aging. Leachable agents such as chlorhexidine provide early antibacterial effects but are constrained by reservoir depletion, water sorption, and release-related material changes. In contrast, covalently immobilized quaternary ammonium monomers provide sustained surface-associated activity without continuous release, although their performance depends on molecular structure, concentration, degree of conversion, and network properties. Antibacterial nanoparticles and bioactive glass fillers provide composition-dependent ion-mediated, photocatalytic, pH-modulating, and remineralizing effects, while their performance depends strongly on particle characteristics, dispersion, and formulation. Multifunctional systems further combine antibacterial activity with protein repellence, mineral protection, and rechargeable ion release. Overall, the evidence indicates that durable antibacterial performance cannot be considered independently of polymerization, mechanical integrity, aging stability, and biocompatibility. Future development should therefore prioritize clinically relevant multispecies biofilm models, standardized aging protocols, structure–property analysis, and long-term in vivo and clinical validation. Full article

Synthetic multi-species consortia provide valuable insights into the ecological and structural dynamics of complex microbial biofilms. However, the specialized functional contributions of individual components under severe nutrient limitations remain poorly understood. This study investigated the population dynamics, matrix biogenesis and metabolic potential of a synthetic ‘protolichen biofilm’ model comprising Asterochloris microalgae, Gordonia bacteria, Thelebolus filamentous fungi and Occultifur yeast. The biofilms were cultivated under strict carbohydrate-deficient conditions for 30 days. Population changes, extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix formation, and the concentrations of extracellular DNA (exDNA) and proteins (exProt), as well as potential dehydrogenase activity (via iodonitrotetrazolium reduction), were evaluated across monocultures, binary, ternary and quaternary consortia. Under carbon starvation, the photoautotrophic microalgae dominated the consortium, driving an 11-fold increase in population size in the four-component system and serving as the primary source of exDNA, which increased by up to three orders of magnitude by day 30. The Gordonia sp. exhibited a tenfold expansion by actively localizing to fungal hyphae and microalgal cell walls. This was directly correlated with a sharp increase in metabolic activity. By contrast, Thelebolus sp. initially provided the structural framework via EPS production, but exhibited limited metabolic activity over time. Meanwhile, the Occultifur sp. yeast population was severely suppressed, adopting a sit-and-wait ecological strategy. Spearman correlation analysis revealed that multi-species integration stabilized the community and triggered significant emergent effects in exDNA accumulation and metabolic potential, but only when microalgae were present. These findings demonstrate that microalgae and bacteria primarily drive metabolism and regulation within the protolichen consortia investigated, while fungi and yeast play structural or opportunistic roles. This provides a robust framework for understanding complex symbiotic interactions. Full article

Coastal plains are low-relief environments where subtle topographic variations govern sedimentary processes, landscape structure, and hydrological dynamics. Along the southeastern Brazilian coast, barrier–lagoon systems record Quaternary coastal evolution and sea-level oscillations; however, detailed mapping of these environments is constrained by the spatial resolution of conventional cartographic bases. This study presents high-resolution morphological mapping of the Maricá coastal plain (Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil) based on digital elevation models (DEMs) derived from UAV photogrammetry, combined with geomorphological interpretation following the IBGE classification framework. The DEM resolved subtle altimetric variations associated with beach ridges and relict lagoonal depressions not represented in conventional topographic maps, providing a surface proxy for the underlying stratigraphic architecture. UAV-derived elevation models significantly improve the identification of morphological units in low-relief coastal environments, establishing a spatial framework for future stratigraphic investigations along the southeastern Brazilian coast. Full article

The Yinchuan Basin is situated at the leading edge of the latest northeastward expansion of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. Sedimentary sequences at basin margins are crucial for understanding basin–mountain coupling relationships, yet systematic studies remain scarce. Here, we present a comprehensive sedimentological, paleomagnetic, whole-rock major and trace element, carbon–oxygen isotope, and detrital zircon U–Pb geochronological analysis of ZK01 Borehole (203 m) from the Kushui River area in the southern basin. Multi-proxy reconstruction reveals that Quaternary climate evolution can be divided into five stages: (1) Early Pleistocene (~2.58–1.77 Ma) alluvial fan-lacustrine alternations with high-amplitude climatic fluctuations, responding to orbitally-driven monsoon precipitation changes; (2) late Early Pleistocene (~1.77–0.78 Ma) stable lacustrine environment with sustained warm–humid conditions and subdued wet–dry oscillations; (3) Middle Pleistocene Climate Transition (MPT, ~0.9–0.6 Ma), marked by positive δ¹³C shifts, heavier δ¹⁸O values, and peak CIA values, indicating intensified chemical weathering in the catchment despite regional warming–drying; (4) Late Pleistocene (~0.16–0.12 Ma) extreme arid alluvial fan phase, with decreased CIA, recording a major dry event; and (5) post-last interglacial (~0.12 Ma–present) shallow lake recovery, with gradual enrichment of all proxies. Detrital zircon U–Pb age spectra show multi-peak characteristics (200–300 Ma, 400–500 Ma, etc.), consistent with upper Yellow River sediments. From the Late Pliocene to the Quaternary, the 200–300 Ma component increased while Precambrian components decreased. Provenance evolution indicates the Yellow River has been the primary sediment carrier, with increasing young components linked to the far-field effects of the Kunlun-Huanghe Movement, revealing tectonic uplift-driven headward erosion and provenance changes. We conclude that Quaternary environmental evolution of the Yinchuan Basin was jointly controlled by orbital-scale monsoon climate and episodic tectonic uplift of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau margin, with Yellow River integration further reshaping the basin’s drainage pattern. Full article

Fluvial terraces represent important geomorphological archives for reconstructing the effects of climatic fluctuations, tectonic activity, and base-level changes during Quaternary times. This study investigates the geomorphological and stratigraphic evolution of the Bradano, Basento, and Salandrella River systems within the Bradanic Foredeep of southern Italy, by means of field observations, geomorphological mapping, aerial-photo interpretation, and GIS analyses. Four relative morphostratigrafic orders of Pleistocene fluvial terraces (T₁–T₄) have been identified and correlated across the three drainage basins. No absolute ages are available for these surfaces. The terraced deposits consist of alternating sandy and conglomeratic bodies recording multiple episodes of incision and/or aggradation overlaying erosional surfaces developed on Pre-Quaternary bedrock. Morphometric analyses revealed significant differences in terrace elevation and relative height above the modern channels, among the three investigated basins. The Salandrella basin preserves some of the highest terraced remnants, a pattern compatible with a possible tectonic contribution related to its proximity to the Apennine mountain front. Conversely, the Basento and Bradano basins evidenced a greater influence of lithological conditions, sediment supply, and climate-controlled variations in fluvial dynamics. The results indicate that the evolution of the staircase fluvial terraces reflects the combined influence of glacio-eustatic sea-level fluctuations, Quaternary climatic oscillations, local geological controls, and a possible contribution from regional tectonic deformation. The regional correlation of terraced surfaces highlights the role of the external forcing in shaping landscape evolution, while local differences emphasize the importance of catchment-scale controls within the Bradanic Foredeep. Full article

Widespread species complexes often contain hidden evolutionary diversity shaped by dispersal, isolation and climatic change. Here, we aimed to characterize geographic genetic structure within the Rhinolophus pusillus species complex, assess the concordance among genetic, morphological and acoustic patterns and the evolutionary distinctiveness of the Taiwan-endemic R. monoceros, and determine whether Quaternary changes in habitat suitability were geographically consistent with the inferred phylogeographic and demographic history. To address these objectives, we analyzed 378 individuals from 70 localities and integrated mitochondrial sequences, nuclear loci, microsatellite genotypes, external phenotypic traits comprising forearm length, body mass, forearm mass index and echolocation resting frequency, demographic inference, ancestral-area reconstruction and ecological niche modelling. Mitochondrial analyses identified five geographically structured lineages within R. pusillus, corresponding broadly to South China, East China, Central China, Hainan Island and Southwest China, while R. monoceros formed a closely related but distinctive Taiwan lineage. South China showed the highest mitochondrial diversity, occupied a central position in haplotype networks and was repeatedly inferred as an important ancestral and refugial region. Divergence-time estimates placed the early diversification of the complex in the Middle Pleistocene, followed by demographic expansion in several lineages during the Late Pleistocene. In contrast, nuclear loci and microsatellites revealed extensive allele sharing and weaker geographic subdivision, suggesting incomplete lineage sorting and historical connectivity. Our results indicate that the R. pusillus complex represents an ongoing diversification system shaped by Quaternary climatic fluctuations, sea-level changes and regional isolation, highlighting the value of integrative phylogeography for conserving hidden evolutionary diversity in widespread bats. Full article

Geological conditions fundamentally constrain land-use suitability, terrain stability, and long-term sustainability, yet they remain underutilized in urban planning frameworks. This study presents a GIS-based geological suitability assessment model, tested on the City of Valjevo, Serbia, integrating lithological, structural, land use/land cover change and spatial data to guide urban development decisions. Seven lithological units—Quaternary deposits, lacustrine sediments, carbonate rocks, volcanic and pyroclastic rocks, ophiolites, ophiolitic mélanges, and Jadar Block sediments—were classified into four suitability classes based on lithological composition, structural characteristics, and rock mass behavior. An Integrated Geological Index (Igeo) was derived using an area-weighted approach across a regular hexagonal grid, enabling spatially explicit suitability mapping. Comparison with land use/land cover changes for 2012–2021 revealed a notable mismatch between geological suitability and observed development patterns: favorable and conditionally favorable terrains cover 72.5% of the study area but account for only 48.7% of recent urban expansion, while unfavorable terrains, occupying just 20.9% of the territory, absorbed 51.3% of new development. No expansion occurred within highly unfavorable terrains. These findings expose critical gaps in integrating geological criteria into planning practice and demonstrate a reproducible methodology for embedding geological suitability into sustainable urban development strategies across geologically heterogeneous regions. Full article

Kozarnika Cave revealed a lengthy archaeological sequence covering the Lower, Middle, and Upper Paleolithic periods. The site is a significant milestone in understanding the various stages of early human colonization and migration into Europe. The available paleomagnetic data indicate that the lower boundary of the deposits corresponds to the Brunhes–Matuyama reversal. During the archaeological excavations, an exceptionally rich assemblage of small mammal remains was recovered. Based on small mammals, two biozones have been delineated—lower (Biozone B) and upper (Biozone A)—which correspond to the Late Biharian and Toringian, respectively. In the present study, a total of 75 species of terrestrial small mammals (Eulipotyphla, Lagomorpha, Rodentia) are analyzed in detail. One new species, Nannospalax sirakovi sp. n., is described. Based on geometric analysis of the mass material of voles (Microtina and Lagurus), the controversial taxonomic positions of some species have been clarified. It has been proven that Microtus arvalinus is a distinct species. Rapid evolution within the species Lagurus transylvanicus towards the modern species L. lagurus has been demonstrated. In all layers of Biozone B, two important guide fossils, Mimomys savini and M. blanci, occur. They are indicative of the second stage of the Early Biharian, which is considered earlier than the Brunhes/Matuyama reversal. Besides this, multiple species characteristic of the Early Pleistocene (Villanyian and the Early Biharian) have been identified (Borsodia newtoni, B. arankoides, Prolagurus pannonicus, Ungaromys nanus, Villanyia cf. exilis, Allophaiomys deucalion, A. cf. pliocaenicus, A. cf. burgondiae, Mimomys pitymyoides, M. cf. tornensis, Lagurus arankae). Although very scarce, they occur regularly in the stratigraphic assemblages of Biozone B, which is dominated by typical Late Biharian species, such as Allophaiomys gregaloides, Microtus arvalidens, M. nivalinus, M. nivaloides, and L. transylvanicus. The occurrence of Mesocricetus newtoni and Spermophilus citellus in Biozone B marks the earliest known occurrence of these species. The faunal turnover within the lower part of the deposits has been analyzed in detail. A reorganization of the fauna has resulted from the gradual disappearance of the Early Pleistocene species. Paleoecological reconstructions based on stratigraphic assemblages of small mammals suggest that the faunal turnover recorded in Biozone B is associated with paleoclimatic changes during the MIS19–MIS17 interval and reflects a reorganization of the biota related to the mid-Pleistocene transition. This period was marked by significant changes in Earth’s climate, shifting from low-amplitude 41,000-year obliquity-driven cycles to high-amplitude, roughly 100,000-year fluctuations that define the later Pleistocene and Holocene. Full article

In the European Alps, plant species have persisted through major geological and climatic changes, leaving distinct genetic signatures of divergence. While these patterns are often attributed to Pleistocene glacial refugia, they may also reflect older, pre-Quaternary events. In mountain systems, lineage-specific ecological divergence, recurrent hybridization, and polyploidization can further complicate interpretations of genetic structure. Here, we combined RAD sequencing phylogenomic, demographic modelling, and ecological analyses to determine whether genetic variation in ten alpine willows (Salix spp.) reflects pre-glacial divergence or glacial dynamics, and to assess the role of extant environmental differentiation. Across all species, genetic data revealed consistent East–West structure. Demographic analyses indicate that lineage divergences predate Quaternary glaciations by several million years and are best explained by ancient founder events followed by periods of secondary contact. Ecological niche analyses identified differences in climatic and edaphic preferences, suggesting ecological divergence as an additional driver of lineage differentiation. Together, these findings demonstrate that the persistence of spatially differentiated yet incompletely diverged Salix lineages in the Alps was likely shaped by the combined effects of pre-Quaternary divergence, ecological selection, and recurrent gene flow, highlighting the importance of integrating ecological processes to understand evolutionary responses to climatic oscillations. Full article

The Raša Fault is a prominent seismically active strike-slip fault within the Dinaric Fault System in SW Slovenia, seismotectonically estimated to be capable of producing earthquakes up to Mw = 7.4. Since the surface exposure of fault-related markers is discontinuous, and the near-surface expression of deformation is poorly constrained, there is a need to improve the detection of fault-related features in complex sedimentary environments. In such settings, signal attenuation, complex stratigraphy, and irregular fault-zone geometries often obscure subtle deformation features, limiting the interpretability of standard 2-D geophysical profiles. A pseudo 3-D Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey, along with complementary Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) surveys and reprocessing of LiDAR (light detection and ranging) data to obtain high-resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), was conducted in selected environments dominated by low-resistivity karstic deposits and highly heterogeneous fluvial sediments to assess and improve the capability to detect and characterize subtle shallow deformations associated with the Raša Fault. Tectonic geomorphological mapping facilitated the recognition of potentially active fault traces and the identification of Quaternary sedimentary and erosional features, where recent deformations are usually preserved and can be dated in further paleoseismological investigations. The analysis of dense GPR data and complementary ERT profiles enabled us to clearly image the fault deformation pattern and obtain quantitative information about the subsurface, showing details of faulting and related deformation structures not evident at the surface. Furthermore, it enabled the detection of fault zone complexity, revealing it as an irregular and laterally changing area with sediment infillings, rather than a single vertical discontinuity. The complexity of faulting in the near surface depends on many factors, including the competence and age of the faulted material, as well as the local geomorphology. This study has demonstrated the applicability of pseudo 3-D GPR surveying, combined with ERT profiles, for subsurface mapping of active strike-slip faults in karstic and fluvial sedimentary environments. The methodology can be recommended in particular for rapid and cost-effective investigation of sites with subtle surface evidence of active faulting in order to determine near-surface fault splaying. Full article

This study examines the critical relationship between geoenvironmental changes and human occupation patterns in the central Arabian Peninsula, focusing on the Al-Aflaj region. By integrating geospatial modeling with preliminary archeological excavation results that indicated the site is dated to 5th century BCE to 6th century CE, we evaluate how climatic stressors dictated human adaptation and eventual site abandonment. Late Quaternary climatic fluctuations, particularly the Early Holocene pluvial phases, initially created favorable conditions for settlement through sustained freshwater resources. Subsequent aridification triggered significant migration and settlement contraction, demonstrating a high degree of human resilience. The site of Qusayrat Aad serves as a compelling case study of sophisticated adaptation, evidenced by mudbrick architecture and advanced irrigation systems. Integration of geological, topographic, and paleoclimatic factors indicates that the porous sedimentary layers of the Heet and Al Biyadh Formations were essential for groundwater recharge and spring formation. The geospatial analysis reveals that the settlement was strategically localized on a stable surface with a mean slope of 1.51°. Furthermore, the Topographic Wetness Index (TWI) identifies the site as a significant hydrological function, with a mean value of 8.79 (reaching a 90th percentile of 12.37), which is markedly higher than the regional average of 7.96. These quantitative findings establish a causal necessity for the site’s advanced subsurface canal systems as an engineered response to minimize evaporative losses in high-potential moisture zones. Ultimately, the correlation between the archeological record and climatic proxies suggests that the intensification of late Holocene aridification depleted these specific water resources beyond adaptive capacity, serving as the primary driver for the site’s abandonment and the migration of populations toward the eastern and southern parts of the Peninsula. Full article

To reveal the impacts of long-term coal mining on groundwater flow fields and the environment, the Jinjitan Coal Mine in Shaanxi Province, China, was selected as the study area. A systematic investigation on the evolution of flow fields and migration of pollutants under long-term coal mining impact was conducted using methods including Self-Organizing Map (SOM) clustering analysis, water isotope analysis, and numerical simulation. The results show that groundwater in the study area is mainly derived from atmospheric precipitation, and the mine water is a mixture of 55% coal seam water and 45% Quaternary groundwater; long-term coal mining has led to two types of Quaternary groundwater level changes (stable and continuously declining); The groundwater level of the Jurassic aquifer shows an overall decline. However, where the aquifer is locally recharged by the Quaternary groundwater, the groundwater level shows a decline-then-rise variation. The overall groundwater flow field maintains the pattern of runoff from northeast to southwest and discharge into the Yuxi River, with no local or regional groundwater depression cones observed; numerical simulation results indicate an average groundwater level drop of 1.36 m over an 10-year period, with a maximum decrease of 4.89 m; the migration scope of oxygen demand and petroleum pollutants caused by domestic sewage pond leakage is limited, their maximum long-term (3650 d) migration distances are 253.47 m and 254.27 m, respectively, and their concentrations are far below the limit of the Class III groundwater quality standard. The research findings provide a scientific basis for the environmental protection, rational development, and utilization of groundwater in the Jinjitan Coal Mine area. Full article

Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like Peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s) have increased in popularity for obesity management and treatment of various metabolic conditions. The medications, however, have significant side effects and carry a risk for adverse events. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of patients taking these medications presenting to the Emergency Department (ED). Methods: We conducted a multi-center retrospective study at two EDs: an urban level 1 trauma center and an academic quaternary medical center (combined annual census approximately 90,000) over a 9-year period (2017–2025). We collected data on all ED encounters involving patients taking GLP-1s, including dual GLP-1/GIP (Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) agonists, at the time of admission, including demographic information, presenting complaints, comorbidities, and disposition. Descriptive and comparative statistics were used to characterize GLP-1 patient encounters vs. non-GLP-1 patient encounters overall and by diabetes status. The change in encounters over the study period was also assessed. p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Over the 9-year study period, the proportion of ED encounters involving patients on GLP-1s increased from 0.4% in 2017 to 5.8% in 2025 (p < 0.001). Patients taking GLP-1s were more often female (53.9%), obese (59.4%), and middle-aged, ranging from 35 to 64 years of age (57.3%), and commonly presented with complaints of abdominal or other pain, weakness, or dizziness. Nearly three-quarters of all patients had a Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score of 3 or higher (74.0%). These patients had a higher rate of inpatient admission from the ED (33.5% vs. 23.7%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The number of patients presenting to the ED who were taking GLP-1s significantly increased over time as these medications became more widely utilized. Patients taking GLP-1s were more often obese with multiple comorbidities and were more likely to be admitted for inpatient care. Further studies are needed to determine whether GLP-1 use independently influences emergency care utilization and the need for hospitalization. Full article

Ferritin, a physiological iron-storage protein, has emerged as a highly attractive platform for drug delivery owing to its biocompatibility, structural robustness, and intrinsic ability to encapsulate and protect therapeutic cargo within its hollow nanocage. Building upon previous studies that established the baseline characteristics of engineered ferritin mutants in comparison to the wild-type protein, this work specifically investigates and directly compares the thermal stability profiles of two distinct mutated variants. These variants of human H-chain ferritin, obtained through targeted site-directed mutagenesis, feature either four or six tryptophan residues per subunit, strategically positioned toward the inner cavity of the protein shell. These modifications were intended to enhance hydrophobic interactions with guest molecules while preserving the native quaternary architecture. Temperature-dependent changes in surface hydrophobicity and solvent accessibility were probed using the environment-sensitive fluorescent dye ANS, enabling a comparative assessment of the conformational behavior of the two mutants. Overall, this study highlights how targeted modulation of the internal cavity composition of ferritin can tune both its physicochemical properties and stability, providing insights relevant for the rational design of ferritin-based nanoplatforms for biomedical applications. Full article