Search Results (2,679)

Background: The long-term clinical and laboratory results of a 33-year follow-up of a Greek family with abetalipoproteinemia (ABL) are described. Case Report: The patients (two brothers and their sister, aged 57, 49, and 62 years, respectively) are still alive, being under close surveillance. In two of the three patients, diarrhea appeared in early infancy, while in the third, it appeared during adolescence. CNS symptomatology worsened after the second decade of life. At the same time, night blindness appeared in the advanced stages of the disease, resulting in almost complete loss of vision in one of the male patients and severe impairment in the other. The diagnosis was based on the clinical picture, ophthalmological findings, serum lipid estimations, and presence of peripheral acanthocytosis. All patients exhibited typical serum lipidemic profile, ophthalmological findings, and acanthocytes in the peripheral blood. During the follow-up period, strict dietary modifications were applied, including the substitution of fat with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oil). After 33 years since the initial diagnosis, all patients are alive without any sign of liver dysfunction despite continuous use of MCT oil. However, symptoms from the central nervous system and vision impairment worsened. Conclusion: The course of these patients suggests that the application of a modified diet, including MCT oil, along with close surveillance, could prolong the survival of patients without significant side effects from the liver. Full article

High-strength steel has high strength and low thermal conductivity, and its thin-walled parts are very susceptible to residual stress and deformation caused by cutting heat during the drilling process, which affects the machining accuracy and quality. High-strength steel thin-walled components are widely used in aerospace and other high-end sectors; however, systematic investigations into their temperature fields during drilling remain scarce, particularly regarding the evolution characteristics of the temperature field in thin-wall drilling and the quantitative relationship between drilling parameters and these temperature variations. This paper takes the thin-walled parts of AF1410 high-strength steel as the research object, designs a special fixture, and applies infrared thermography to measure the bottom surface temperature in the thin-walled drilling process in real time; this is carried out in order to study the characteristics of the temperature field during the thin-walled drilling process of high-strength steel, as well as the influence of the drilling dosage on the temperature field of the bottom surface. The experimental findings are as follows: in the process of thin-wall drilling of high-strength steel, the temperature field of the bottom surface of the workpiece shows an obvious temperature gradient distribution; before the formation of the drill cap, the highest temperature of the bottom surface of the workpiece is distributed in the central circular area corresponding to the extrusion of the transverse edge during the drilling process, and the highest temperature of the bottom surface can be approximated as the temperature of the extrusion friction zone between the top edge of the drill and the workpiece when the top edge of the drill bit drills to a position close to the bottom surface of the workpiece and increases with the increase in the drilling speed and the feed volume; during the process of drilling, the highest temperature of the bottom surface of the workpiece is approximated as the temperature of the top edge of the drill bit and the workpiece. The maximum temperature of the bottom surface of the workpiece in the drilling process increases nearly linearly with the drilling of the drill, and the slope of the maximum temperature increases nearly linearly with the increase in the drilling speed and feed, in which the influence of the feed on the slope of the maximum temperature increases is larger than that of the drilling speed. Full article

As the scale of shipboard power systems expands, their vulnerability becomes increasingly prominent. Identifying vulnerable points in ship power grids is essential for enhancing system stability, optimizing overall performance, and ensuring safe navigation. To address this issue, this paper proposes an algorithm based on fuzzy local dimension and topology (FLDT). The algorithm distinguishes contributions from nodes at different radii and within the same radius to a central node using fuzzy sets, and then derives the final importance value of each node by combining the local dimension and topology. Experimental results on nine datasets demonstrate that the FLDT algorithm outperforms degree centrality (DC), closeness centrality (CC), local dimension (LD), fuzzy local dimension (FLD), local link similarity (LLS), and mixed degree decomposition (MDD) algorithms in three metrics: network efficiency (NE), largest connected component (LCC), and monotonicity. Furthermore, in a ship power grid experiment, when 40% of the most important nodes were removed, FLDT caused a network efficiency drop of 99.78% and reduced the LCC to 2.17%, significantly outperforming traditional methods. Additional experiments under topological perturbations—including edge addition, removal, and rewiring—also show that FLDT maintains superior performance, highlighting its robustness to structural changes. This indicates that the FLDT algorithm is more effective in identifying and evaluating vulnerable points and distinguishing nodes with varying levels of importance. Full article

Despite rapid advances in robot learning, the coordination of closed-loop manipulation in cluttered environments remains a challenging and relatively underexplored problem. We present a novel two-level hierarchical architecture for a depth vision-equipped robotic arm that integrates pushing, grasping, and high-level decision making. Central to our approach is a prioritised action–selection mechanism that facilitates efficient early-stage learning via behaviour cloning (BC), while enabling scalable exploration through reinforcement learning (RL). A high-level decision neural network (DNN) selects between grasping and pushing actions, and two low-level action neural networks (ANNs) execute the selected primitive. The DNN is trained with RL, while the ANNs follow a hybrid learning scheme combining BC and RL. Notably, we introduce an automated demonstration generator based on oriented bounding boxes, eliminating the need for manual data collection and enabling precise, reproducible BC training signals. We evaluate our method on a challenging manipulation task involving five closely packed cubic objects. Our system achieves a completion rate (CR) of 100%, an average grasping success (AGS) of 93.1% per completion, and only 7.8 average decisions taken for completion (DTC). Comparative analysis against three baselines—a grasping-only policy, a fixed grasp-then-push sequence, and a cloned demonstration policy—highlights the necessity of dynamic decision making and the efficiency of our hierarchical design. In particular, the baselines yield lower AGS (86.6%) and higher DTC (10.6 and 11.4) scores, underscoring the advantages of content-aware, closed-loop control. These results demonstrate that our architecture supports robust, adaptive manipulation and scalable learning, offering a promising direction for autonomous skill coordination in complex environments. Full article

The goal of phylogeography is to explain how microevolutionary forces shape the gene pool of a lineage into the geography. In this study we have evaluated the amount of genetic variation in 13 populations of Dorymyrmex bicolor distributed in a mountainous region in Central Veracruz, Mexico. To do so, we sequenced fragments from the mitochondrial COI, COII, and nuclear LWRh genes. Segregated sites were found only at the mitochondrial markers, recovering a total of 21 different haplotypes. The nucleotide diversity ranged from 0 to 0.5% at the different sampling sites. Phylogenetic and spatial analyses of molecular variance revealed a weak but significant phylogeographic structure associated with lowland and mountainous zones. Molecular clock analysis suggests that radiation in the mountain area started 7500 years ago, whereas lineage radiation in the lowland started more recently, around 2700 years ago. The phylogeographic structure is incipient, with nests from lowlands more closely related to mountain nests than to other lowland nests, and vice versa. This seems to be consistent with a model of incomplete lineage sorting. The obtained patterns appear to be the result of restricted gene flow mediated by a complex topographic landscape that has been shaped by a dynamic geologic history. Full article

The Mw 7.8 Gorkha Earthquake of 25 April 2015 triggered over 25,000 landslides across central Nepal, with 4775 events concentrated in Gorkha District alone. Despite substantial advances in landslide susceptibility mapping, existing studies often overlook the compound role of post-seismic rainfall and lack robust spatial validation. To address this gap, we validated an ensemble machine learning framework for co-seismic landslide susceptibility modeling by integrating seismic, geomorphological, hydrological, and anthropogenic variables, including cumulative post-seismic rainfall. Using a balanced dataset of 4775 landslide and non-landslide instances, we evaluated the performance of Logistic Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) models through spatial cross-validation, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) explainability, and ablation analysis. The RF model outperformed all others, achieving an accuracy of 87.9% and a Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Area Under the Curve (AUC) value of 0.94, while XGBoost closely followed (AUC = 0.93). Ensemble models collectively classified over 95% of observed landslides into High and Very High susceptibility zones, demonstrating strong spatial reliability. SHAP analysis identified elevation, proximity to fault, peak ground acceleration (PGA), slope, and rainfall as dominant predictors. Notably, the inclusion of post-seismic rainfall substantially improved recall and F1 scores in ablation experiments. Spatial cross-validation revealed the superior generalizability of ensemble models under heterogeneous terrain conditions. The findings underscore the value of integrating post-seismic hydrometeorological factors and spatial validation into susceptibility assessments. We recommend adopting ensemble models, particularly RF, for operational hazard mapping in earthquake-prone mountainous regions. Future research should explore the integration of dynamic rainfall thresholds and physics-informed frameworks to enhance early warning systems and climate resilience. Full article

The need for systems that forecast and respond proactively to meteorological disasters is growing amid climate variability. Although the early warning system in South Korea includes countermeasure information, it remains limited in terms of data recency, granularity, and regional adaptability. Additionally, its closed architecture hinders interoperability with external systems. This study aims to redesign the countermeasure function as an independent cloud-based platform grounded in the common standard terminology framework in South Korea. A multi-dimensional data model was developed using attributes such as crop type, cultivation characteristics, growth stage, disaster type, and risk level. The platform incorporates user-specific customization features and history tracking capabilities, and it is structured using a microservices architecture to ensure modularity and scalability. The proposed system enables real-time management and dissemination of localized countermeasure suggestions tailored to various user types, including central and local governments and farmers. This study offers a practical model for enhancing the precision and applicability of agrometeorological response information. It is expected to serve as a scalable reference platform for future integration with external agricultural information systems. Full article

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disorder affecting the central nervous system that significantly impairs postural control and functional abilities. Robotic-assisted gait training mitigates this functional deterioration. This preliminary study aims to investigate the effects of a four-week gait training with the ExoAtlet II exoskeleton on static balance control and functional mobility in five individuals with MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale ≤ 2.5). Before and after the training, they were assessed in quiet standing under Eyes Open (EO) and Eyes Closed (EC) conditions and with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Center of Pressure (CoP) Sway Area, Antero–Posterior (AP) and Medio–Lateral (ML) CoP displacement, Stay Time, and Total Instability Duration were computed. TUG test Total Duration, sit-to-stand, stand-to-sit, and linear walking phase duration were analyzed. To establish target reference values for rehabilitation advancement, the same evaluations were performed on a matched healthy cohort. After the training, an improvement in static balance with EO was observed towards HS values (reduced Sway Area, AP and ML CoP displacement, and Total Instability Duration and increased Stay Time). Enhancements under EC condition were less marked. TUG test performance improved, particularly in the stand-to-sit phase. These preliminary findings suggest functional benefits of exoskeleton gait training for individuals with MS. Full article

Liver fibrosis, a critical pathological feature of chronic liver injury, is closely associated with macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses and metabolic reprogramming. Blocking the fibrosis process will be beneficial to the treatment and recovery of the disease. Liver macrophages are a remarkably heterogeneous population of immune cells that play multiple functions in homeostasis and are central to liver fibrosis. Glycolysis-mediated macrophage metabolic reprogramming leads to an increase in the proportion of M1 macrophages and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect and mechanism of acid B (SAL B) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver fibrosis. Here, we demonstrate that SAL B reduced the production of inflammatory factors in CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis. Mechanistically, SAL B increased the expression of migration inhibitor 1 (MIG1) by inhibiting DNMT1-mediated methylation of the MIG1 promoter. Subsequently, MIG1 reduced the transcription of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and hexokinase 2 (HK2) which blocked glycolysis-mediated macrophage M1 polarization. In summary, our results suggested that SAL B is a promising intervention for ameliorating liver fibrosis. Full article

The mechanism by which voltage-gated ion channels open and close has been the subject of intensive investigation for decades. For a large class of potassium channels and related sodium channels, the consensus has been that the gating current preceding the main ionic current is a large movement of positively charged segments of protein from voltage-sensing domains that are mechanically connected to the gate through linker sections of the protein, thus opening and closing the gate. We have pointed out that this mechanism is based on evidence that has alternate interpretations in which protons move. Very little literature considers the role of water and protons in gating, although water must be present, and there is evidence that protons can move in related channels. It is known that water has properties in confined spaces and at the surface of proteins different from those in bulk water. In addition, there is the possibility of quantum properties that are associated with mobile protons and the hydrogen bonds that must be present in the pore; these are likely to be of major importance in gating. In this review, we consider the evidence that indicates a central role for water and the mobility of protons, as well as alternate ways to interpret the evidence of the standard model in which a segment of protein moves. We discuss evidence that includes the importance of quantum effects and hydrogen bonding in confined spaces. K⁺ must be partially dehydrated as it passes the gate, and a possible mechanism for this is considered; added protons could prevent this mechanism from operating, thus closing the channel. The implications of certain mutations have been unclear, and we offer consistent interpretations for some that are of particular interest. Evidence for proton transport in response to voltage change includes a similarity in sequence to the H_v1 channel; this appears to be conserved in a number of K⁺ channels. We also consider evidence for a switch in -OH side chain orientation in certain key serines and threonines. Full article

Augustine of Hippo (354–430), one of the most influential theologians of Late Antiquity, spent nearly a decade in the Manichaean sect before becoming a central figure in the shaping of Western “orthodox” Christianity. While his major works such as the Confessiones and De civitate Dei have been extensively studied for their treatment of Manichaeism, the vast collection of his ca. 300 preserved letters (Epistulae) remains an understudied source for understanding this aspect of his intellectual and theological development. This article addresses that gap by proposing a methodology to identify both anti- and crypto-Manichaean themes in his letters. Drawing on phenomenological openness, hermeneutical perspective, and close reading, the study also incorporates genuine Manichaean sources and anti-Manichaean polemics to contextualise Augustine’s rhetorical strategies. The Epistulae, unpolished and situated in specific communicative contexts, offer a unique view of Augustine’s doctrinal positioning after his conversion. Traces of his Manichaean past re-emerge in vocabulary, argumentation, and theological emphasis. This is exemplified in Epistula 137 to Volusianus (411–412), which, without naming the sect, covertly critiques key Manichaean doctrines such as Docetism and materialism. These critiques align with extant Manichaean sources and may reflect Augustine’s awareness of latent Manichaean influence in Christian communities. By bringing the Epistulae into the broader discussion of Augustine’s anti-Manichaean engagement, this study highlights their value as a window into his theological evolution and pastoral strategy in a religiously contested environment. Full article

This study proposes a novel approach to measuring phonetic distances among six Hailu Hakka vowels ([i, e, ɨ, a, u, o]) by applying Euclidean distance-based calculations from both articulatory and acoustic perspectives. By analyzing articulatory feature values and acoustic formant structures, vowel distances are systematically represented through linear vector arrangements. These measurements address ongoing debates regarding the central positioning of [ɨ], specifically whether it aligns more closely with front or back vowels and whether [a] or [ɑ] more accurately represents vowel articulation. This study also reassesses the validity of prior acoustic findings on Hailu Hakka vowels and evaluates the correspondence between articulatory normalization and acoustic formant-based models. Through the integration of articulatory and acoustic data, this research advances a replicable and theoretically grounded method for quantitative vowel analysis. The results not only refine phonetic classification within a Euclidean framework but also help resolve transcription inconsistencies in phonetic distance matrices. This study contributes to the growing field of quantitative phonetics by offering a systematic, multidimensional model applicable to both theoretical and experimental investigations of Taiwan Hailu Hakka. Full article

In recent years, the concept of the myofascial network has transformed biomechanical understanding by emphasizing the body as an integrated, multidirectional system. This study advances that paradigm by applying graph theory to model the osteo-myofascial system as an anatomical network, enabling the identification of topologically central nodes involved in force transmission, stability, and coordination. Using the aNETomy model and the BIOMECH 3.4 database, we constructed an undirected network of 2208 anatomical nodes and 7377 biomechanical relationships. Centrality analysis (degree, betweenness, and closeness) revealed that structures such as the sacrum and thoracolumbar fascia exhibit high connectivity and strategic importance within the network. These findings, while derived from a theoretical modeling approach, suggest that such key nodes may inform targeted treatment strategies, particularly in complex or compensatory musculoskeletal conditions. The proposed concept of a polyconnective skeleton (PCS) synthesizes the most influential anatomical hubs into a functional core of the system. This framework may support future clinical and technological applications, including integration with imaging modalities, real-time monitoring, and predictive modeling for personalized and preventive medicine. Full article

The high spatial resolution of radar data enables the detailed resolution of typhoon vortices and their embedded structures; the assimilation of radar data in the initialization of numerical weather prediction exerts an important influence on the forecasting of typhoon track, intensity, and structures up to at least 12 h. For the case of typhoon Morakot (2009), Taiwan radar data was assimilated to adjust the dynamic and thermodynamic structures of the vortex in the model initialization by the three-dimensional variation data assimilation system in the Advanced Region Prediction System (ARPS). The radial wind was directly assimilated to tune the original unbalanced velocity fields through a 3-dimensional variation method, and complex cloud analysis was conducted by using the reflectivity data. The influence of radar data assimilation on typhoon prediction was examined at the stages of Morakot landing on Taiwan Island and subsequently going inland. The results showed that the assimilation made some improvement in the prediction of vortex intensity, track, and structures in the initialization and subsequent forecast. For example, besides deepening the central sea level pressure and enhancing the maximum surface wind speed, the radar data assimilation corrected the typhoon center movement to the best track and adjusted the size and inner-core structure of the vortex to be close to the observations. It was also shown that the specific humidity adjustment in the cloud analysis procedure during the assimilation time window played an important role, producing more hydrometeors and tuning the unbalanced moisture and temperature fields. The neighborhood-based ETS revealed that the assimilation with the specific humidity adjustment was propitious in improving forecast skill, specifically for smaller-scale reflectivity at the stage of Morakot landing, and for larger-scale reflectivity at the stage of Morakot going inland. The calculation of the intensity-scale skill score of the hourly precipitation forecast showed the assimilation with the specific humidity adjustment performed skillful forecasting for the spatial forecast-error scales of 30–160 km. Full article

This study investigates the spatio-temporal dynamics of Climate Potential Productivity (CPP) in Central Africa during 1901–2019 using the Thornthwaite Memorial model coupled with Mann–Kendall tests based on high spatial and temporal resolution data. The results demonstrate the climate–vegetation interactions under global warming: (1) Central Africa exhibited a statistically significant warming trend (r² = 0.33, p < 0.01) coupled with non-significant rainfall reduction, suggesting an emerging warm–dry climate regime that parallels meteorological trends observed in North Africa. (2) Central Africa exhibited an overall increasing trend in CPP, with temporal fluctuations closely aligned with precipitation variability. Specifically, the CPP in Central Africa has undergone three distinct phases: an increasing phase (1901–1960), a decreasing phase (1960–1980), and a slow recovery phase (1980–2019). The multiple intersection points between the UF and UB curves indicate that Central Africa’s CPP has been significantly affected by climate change under global warming. (3) The correlation of CPP–Temperature was mainly positive, mainly distributed in the Lower Guinea Plateau and the northern part of the Congo Basin (r² = 0.26, p < 0.1). The relationship of CPP–Precipitation showed predominantly a very strong positive correlation (r² = 0.91, p < 0.01). Full article