Search Results (190)

Background/Objectives: Reversibility of glaucomatous optic-disc cupping, following intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, represents a fascinating structural response observed in both pediatric and adult patients. This review summarizes evidence on its mechanisms, diagnostic evaluation, and clinical significance. Methods: A comprehensive review of experimental, clinical, and imaging-based studies investigating optic-disc cupping reversibility was conducted. Findings were categorized by patient population, imaging technique, and follow-up duration. Results: Experimental models established a strong correlation between IOP reduction and optic-disc structural recovery. Pediatric glaucoma demonstrated the greatest reversibility due to enhanced ocular tissue elasticity, whereas adult cases showed limited yet measurable structural changes after sustained IOP lowering. Imaging modalities, including confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), consistently confirmed quantitative disc-shape changes correlated with pressure reduction. Conclusions: Although optic-disc cupping reversal reflects biomechanical and glial remodeling rather than true neuronal recovery, it remains an important biomarker of successful IOP control. Advanced imaging provides valuable insights into optic-nerve-head (ONH) biomechanics and may improve glaucoma management. Full article

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by Fusarium oxysporum play an important role in the process of its infestation of the host, but the in vitro research system for EVs of F. oxysporum (Fo-EVs) has not yet been improved, and the mechanism of its action remains unclear. In this study, particle size distribution, particle concentration, number of particles per unit of protein, number of particles per unit of mycelial biomass, and concentration of contaminated proteins were used as indicators to evaluate the yield and purity of Fo-EVs. The optimal method for Fo-EV preparation and extraction was screened by comparing liquid culture, solid culture, and solid culture with enzymatic cell wall hydrolysis. The optimal system for Fo-EVs separation and purification was screened by a pairwise combination of three primary methods (Ultracentrifugation (UC), Ultrafiltration (UF), and Polyethylene glycol precipitation method (PEG)) and two secondary methods (Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and Aqueous two-phase system (ATPS)), respectively. The protein composition was identified via mass spectrometry technology, followed by GO annotation and GO enrichment analysis using whole-genome proteins as the background. Based on these steps, a Fo-EV protein library was constructed to reveal Fo-EV’s most active biological functions. The results showed that solid culture combined with the UC-SEC method could effectively enrich Fo-EVs with a typical cup-shaped membrane structure. The obtained Fo-EVs had an average particle size of 253.50 nm, a main peak value of 200.60 nm, a particle concentration of 2.04 × 10¹⁰ particles/mL, and a particle number per unit protein of 1.09 × 10⁸ particles/μg, which were significantly superior to those of other combined methods. Through proteomic analysis, 1931 proteins enriched in Fo-EVs were identified, among which 350 contained signal peptides and 375 had transmembrane domains. GO enrichment analysis revealed that these proteins were mainly involved in cell wall synthesis, vesicle transport, and pathogenicity-related metabolic pathways. Additionally, 9 potential fungal EV markers, including Hsp70, Rho GTPase family, and SNARE proteins, were screened. This study constructed an isolation system and a marker database for Fo-EVs, providing a methodological and theoretical basis for in-depth analysis of the biological functions of Fo-EVs. Full article

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PEVs) have emerged as a promising area of research in biotechnology with enormous potential in drug delivery, skincare, and functional foods. Currently, PEVs are obtained primarily from fresh and dried materials through soaking and extraction; however, little is known about the differences in their contents. Using Portulaca oleracea L. as the research object, this study firstly employed a method that combined differential and ultracentrifugation with membrane filtration to separate and purify exosome-like nanoparticles from dried material (D-PELNs) and fresh material (F-PELNs). Then, multi-omics analysis compared the small-molecule metabolites, lipid profiles, and protein expression patterns. Both D-PELNs and F-PELNs showed typical cup-shaped morphology, with mean particle sizes of 139 nm and 186 nm, and mean zeta potentials of −16.015 ± 0.335 mV and −6.29 ± 0.19 mV, respectively. Both types contained diverse small-molecule metabolites. Among them, terpenoids (e.g., caesaldekarin e) were more abundant in F-PELNs, whereas carboxylic acids and their derivatives (e.g., citric acid) were predominantly found in D-PELNs. Both types had abundant lipids. D-PELNs exhibited greater lipid diversity than F-PELNs, with notable enrichment in phosphatidylcholine (18.48%) and ceramide (17.02%). F-PELNs mainly consisted of functional neutral lipids, such as monoglycerides and triglycerides. Proteins involved in plant morphogenesis and secondary-metabolite biosynthesis were also identified. Proteins from both Portulaca oleracea L.-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (PELNs) were localized to intracellular structures, including the cytoplasm and mitochondria of the cells. D-PELNs had a higher protein content related to carbon metabolism, whereas F-PELNs were more enriched in proteins related to secondary metabolite synthesis. In summary, D-PELNs and F-PELNs were successfully isolated and characterized, and their compositions were analyzed and compared using multi-omics approaches. These findings identify the specific chemical components of PELNs and offer new insights for comparing the compositional differences between exosome-like nanoparticles derived from dried and fresh plant states. Full article

Two new species of free-living marine nematodes were collected in the Yellow Sea, China, and they are described herein as Actinonema sinica sp. nov. and Comesoma zhangi sp. nov. Actinonema sinica sp. nov. is characterized by short cephalic setae; lateral differentiation consisting of a row of longitudinal sclerotized bars and beginning at the level of anterior third of the pharyngeal region; horn-shaped telamons; a curved rod-shaped gubernaculum; and an elongate conical tail with a smooth, pointed tip. Comesoma zhangi sp. nov. is characterized by long, thick cephalic setae, reaching up to 28 µm in length; a cup-shaped buccal cavity lacking a tooth and narrowing posteriorly with small projections; an amphidial fovea with two turns; slender, arcuate spicules 2.6 times the cloacal body diameter in length, lacking a proximal capitulum; a plate-like gubernaculum without apophysis; and the absence of precloacal supplements. Updated keys to the valid species of the genus Actinonema and the genus Comesoma are provided. A comparative morphological table of all currently accepted species of Comesoma is also provided. Full article

The early stages of most particle accelerator chains produce sub-ns bunches with velocities in the range of 1% to 20% of the speed of light. Fast Faraday Cups (FFCs) are designed to measure the longitudinal charge distribution of these short bunches of free charges. Coaxial designs have been utilized at the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research (GSI)’s linear accelerator UNILAC to characterize ion bunches with bunch lengths ranging from a few hundred ps to a few ns. The typical design goals are to avoid the pre-field of the charges and to suppress secondary electron emission (SEE) while preserving the capability of bunch-by-bunch measurements. This contribution presents a novel FFC design manufactured using additive manufacturing, e.g., laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), and compares it with a traditionally produced FFC. The article highlights the design process, RF characterization, and selected measurements with ion beam carried out at GSI. Full article

The dimensional stability of sawn timber is one of the key factors affecting processing and final application in various fields, such as construction, furniture making, and interior design. One of the most common problems that beech wood producers may confront is the occurrence of various types of warping (deformation) during drying. These warps significantly affect the processability of sawn timber, which can lead to reduced yield and economic losses. Several factors can affect dimensional stability. These factors include the sawing pattern, the position of the timber in the log, and the slope of the annual rings. Our research investigated these factors and focused on two types of warping: cup and twist. The results showed a notable influence of the original position of the timber in the log on the degree of cup warping after drying (r = 0.5194; p = 0.0189), with timber closer to the perimeter exhibiting less curvature. The sawing pattern (parallel to the surface of the log—RsP; parallel to the axis of the log—RsO) had a less significant effect but showed a tendency towards curvature (r = 0.4242; p = 0.0623). Based on the sawing pattern, after drying, the twist warping was more pronounced in RsP logs, while RsO cuts retained better shape stability and had only minimal cup warping. Full article

Plants have the capacity to form adventitious roots (ARs) from detached aerial organs, a process known as de novo root regeneration (DNRR). In Arabidopsis, wounding signals rapidly induce in leaf explants the expression of genes encoding enzymes of auxin biosynthesis, resulting in elevated auxin levels and facilitating AR formation. Here, we report that DEVELOPMENT-RELATED POLYCOMB TARGET IN THE APEX 4 (DPA4/NGAL3), a well-known regulator in seed size and leaf margin development, and a repressor of CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON 2 (CUC2), inhibits AR formation in detached leaves. Leaf explants of dpa4-2 and cuc2-1D mutants displayed both elevated CUC2 mRNA levels and increased rooting rates. We observed reduced expression of ULTRAPETALA1 (ULT1), a negative regulator of DNRR, while the auxin biosynthesis genes ASA1, YUC4, and YUC9 were upregulated in both mutants. Through pharmacological inhibition of YUCCA-mediated auxin biogenesis, we obtained evidence that the enhanced AR formation in both mutants is at least partially a result of increased auxin production. Genetic analysis of dpa4-2 cuc2-1D double mutants indicates that similar mechanisms promote DNRR in both mutants. In summary, our study suggests that DPA4 suppresses AR formation likely by repression of CUC2 and activation of ULT1, which, in turn, suppresses endogenous auxin biogenesis and DNRR. Full article

Nest predation is a major factor limiting avian reproductive success. It depends on factors such as bird community, land use, vegetation structure and landscape. Anthropogenic disturbances in native forests, such as logging and livestock grazing, alter forest structure and understory, potentially affecting nest predation rates. In this study, we analysed the susceptibility of open-cup nests to predation in Nothofagus antarctica forests in Tierra del Fuego (Argentina), comparing 15–50 years ago thinned—T and unthinned forests, the latter classified as open—O, closed—C or very closed—VC. We also identified nest predators through camera traps and the main variables influencing predation using a Generalized Lineal Model. Data were collected from 32 sites representing the four studied categories of canopy cover across two years (256 artificial nests per year). Artificial nest predation rates varied between year (9.4% in 2018 and 40.2% in 2022) and among forest types. In 2018, the O forests had the highest predation rate (50%, 12 in total), whereas in 2022, VC forests showed the greatest predation (38%, 39 in total). Camera traps identified three nest predators: Milvago chimango, Campephilus magellanicus and Xolmis pyrope. In 2018, canopy cover was the only variable that influenced artificial nest predation, while in 2022, tree sapling cover, patch shape, open-cup nester density and tree basal area were the most influential (in that order). We found annual variations driven by different ecological factors in N. antarctica forest of southern Patagonia. Although thinning showed no significant long-term effects on artificial nest predation on this study, more research is needed to understand the influence of low impact forest management in austral bird communities. Full article

This study explores the effect of financial development, economic growth, ICT, green technologies, and strict environmental policies on environmental sustainability in the states of the European Union from 1996 to 2022. It also evaluates the EKC hypothesis and examines how ICT and green technologies moderate the linkage between financial development and carbon footprint. The Westerlund-Durbin-Hausman cointegration test is used for the long-run relationship. The FMOLS and CUP-FMOLS estimators are used to estimate the long-run elasticity coefficients, providing reliable results. The results reveal an inverted N-shaped linkage between GDP and carbon footprint in EU states, validating the EKC hypothesis. Furthermore, financial development has been found to increase carbon footprints, whereas green technologies, ICT, and stringent environmental regulations have been shown to mitigate these effects. Additionally, the interaction effects of ICT and green technologies with financial development demonstrate a reduction in the carbon footprint. These findings indicate that the EU should integrate the moderating role of innovation into policies addressing the pollution caused by financial development to achieve net-zero emission goals. Full article

Auxetic structures, characterized by a negative Poisson’s ratio and unique form-fitting deformation, are adopted for designing a bra pad that would facilitate bras with a flexible and adaptive fit. This study compares the pressure distribution between auxetic and traditional molded bra pads, highlighting the advantages of auxetic materials in applying uniform pressure and addressing health concerns. Seven athletic female participants with a bra size of 75B comprise the study sample. Anthropometric data of naked breasts are collected by using three-dimensional (3D) scanning to obtain the underbust and full bust dimensions in the standing and leaning forward positions, while the pressure distribution is measured with the Novel Pliance^® pressure measurement system in three poses: standing, static cycling, and dynamic cycling. The results show that the auxetic designs of bra pads consistently apply a more uniform pressure distribution compared to traditional foam pads, with mean pressures of 2.92 kPa for auxetic pads compared to 4.81 kPa for traditional foam pads during static cycling. Moreover, auxetic pads reduced maximum pressure by 25% compared to molded cups, and spatial variability was halved (SD 0.85 kPa vs. 1.70 kPa). Notably, at the bra neckline, auxetic pads exhibit increased pressure as the body leans forward, demonstrating their ability to adapt to changing breast shapes while maintaining adequate bra-breast contact. In contrast, in the lower breast area, the auxetic pads show a decrease in pressure, which indicates their capacity to accommodate variations in breast girth or volume without exerting excessive force. These findings highlight the superior adaptability and wear comfort provided by an auxetic structure, which shows its potential to address the dynamic support needs of active women. Overall, the auxetic designs of a bra pad in this study represent a significant advancement in sports bra technology and offer a promising alternative to traditional molded cups in activewear design. Full article

Auxetic materials and structures exhibit high energy absorption, vibration damping, and fracture toughness at the macroscopic level. Lightweight designs and perforated structures in buckling-restrained braces (BRBs) have garnered significant attention. However, existing auxetic cellular configurations remain relatively simplistic, with particularly limited options capable of synergizing with BRBs to achieve combined energy dissipation and seismic mitigation performance. This study introduces a novel composite auxetic cellular unit with a honeycomb structure of negative Poisson’s ratio and corresponding design method. The cellular unit is combined with a BRB to develop a new composite auxetic perforated BRB (NPR-BRB). Experimental and numerical simulation methods are used to investigate the effects of two core plate materials (Q235B and LY160), the reentrant angle, and the cross-sectional weakening rate of the composite honeycombs on the NPR-BRB’s performance under cyclic loading. In this study, four BRB specimens were fabricated, and the experimental results reveal that the fracture surface morphology (cup- and shell-shaped) depends on the deformation mechanism. One of the NPR-BRBs demonstrates stable hysteretic behavior, with an equivalent viscous damping ratio of 0.469 and a cumulative plastic strain of 219.7. Numerical simulations indicate that the LY160 BRB exhibits higher deformation capacity and energy dissipation, reducing stress concentration. The concavity angle has a negligible influence on performance. An increase in the cross-sectional weakening rate is correlated with a reduction in bearing capacity, hysteresis loop area, and compression–tension asymmetry, and an increase followed by a decrease in equivalent viscous damping ratio and cumulative plastic strain. The novel hybrid auxetic cellular units may enhance the energy dissipation performance of BRBs. Full article

Tableware objects such as plates, bowls, and cups are usually textureless, uniform in color, and vary widely in shape, making it difficult to apply conventional pose estimation methods that rely on texture cues or object-specific CAD models. These limitations present a significant obstacle to robotic manipulation in restaurant environments, where reliable six-degree-of-freedom (6-DoF) pose estimation is essential for autonomous grasping and collection. To address this problem, we propose a model-free and texture-free 6-DoF pose estimation framework based on a transformer encoder architecture. This method uses only geometry-based features extracted from depth images, including surface vertices and rim normals, which provide strong structural priors. The pipeline begins with object detection and segmentation using a pretrained video foundation model, followed by the generation of uniformly partitioned grids from depth data. For each grid cell, centroid positions, and surface normals are computed and processed by a transformer-based model that jointly predicts object rotation and translation. Experiments with ten types of tableware demonstrate that the method achieves an average rotational error of 3.53 degrees and a translational error of 13.56 mm. Real-world deployment on a mobile robot platform with a manipulator further validated its ability to autonomously recognize and collect tableware, highlighting the practicality of the proposed geometry-driven approach for service robotics. Full article

With the advancement of intelligent technology and the rise in labor costs, manual identification and cutting of 3D cotton cup indentations can no longer meet modern demands. The increasing variety and shape of 3D cotton cups due to personalized requirements make the use of fixed molds for cutting inefficient, leading to a large number of molds and high costs. Therefore, this paper proposes a UNet-based indentation segmentation algorithm to automatically extract 3D cotton cup indentation data. By incorporating the VGG16 network and Leaky-ReLU activation function into the UNet model, the method improves the model’s generalization capability, convergence speed, detection speed, and reduces the risk of overfitting. Additionally, attention mechanisms and an Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling (ASPP) module are introduced to enhance feature extraction, improving the network’s spatial feature extraction ability. Experiments conducted on a self-made 3D cotton cup dataset demonstrate a precision of 99.53%, a recall of 99.69%, a mIoU of 99.18%, and an mPA of 99.73%, meeting practical application requirements. The extracted 3D cotton cup indentation contour data is automatically input into an intelligent CNC cutting machine to cut 3D cotton cup. The cutting results of 400 data points show an 0.20 mm ± 0.42 mm error, meeting the cutting accuracy requirements for flexible material 3D cotton cups. This study may serve as a reference for machine vision, image segmentation, improvements to deep learning architectures, and automated cutting machinery for flexible materials such as fabrics. Full article

The cup-shaped grinding wheels with arc-shaped edges provide a satisfactory precision grinding solution for high-accuracy optical surfaces on hard and brittle materials. However, the complex profile of the arc-shaped edges of cup-shaped grinding wheels makes them challenging to truing. This paper proposes an on-machine truing technique targeting cup-shaped grinding wheels with arc-shaped cutting edge. First, a mathematical model was established to simulate the three-axis of on-machine truing the arc-shaped cutting edge using a diamond roller. Based on this model, a theoretical analysis is conducted to investigate the impact of tool setting errors, measurement errors of the diamond roller, and the pose error on truing accuracy. A compensation method was proposed, and experimental results validated its effectiveness. To investigate the grinding performance of cup-shaped grinding wheels after truing, a complex component is ground using a truing diamond grinding wheel. The experimental results demonstrate that this method enables precise on-machine truing of the arc-shaped edges of cup-shaped grinding wheels and is efficient. The average dimensional accuracy of the grinding wheel’s arc-shaped edge is reduced to 1.5 μm, with the profile accuracy (PV) of 0.89 μm. Full article

During a survey of the intertidal zone on the eastern coast of Jeju Island, Korea, a new species of free-living marine nematode belonging to the Selachinematidae (Chromadorida) family was discovered and described. Gammanema papillatum sp. nov. is morphologically most similar to G. lunatum and G. agglutinans, both recorded from New Zealand, by sharing a loop-shaped amphid in males, unlike the multispiral amphid typical of most congeners, and the presence of cuticular spines. It differs from G. lunatum in body length (1122–1366 µm vs. 754–1196 µm), a-ratio (21–23 vs. 13–15), shape of the supplementary organs (papilla-shaped vs. cup-shaped), and distance from the posterior-most supplement to the cloacal opening (58–63 µm vs. 18–32 µm). In terms of precloacal supplementary organ morphology, the new species also resembles Gammanema conicauda, as both are the only congeners with papilla-shaped precloacal supplementary organs. However, G. papillatum sp. nov. differs from G. conicauda by the number of supplementary organs (7–8 vs. 22), amphidial shape (loop-shaped vs. unispiral), and the presence of cuticular spines (absent in G. conicauda). Near full-length SSU and D2–D3 region LSU rDNA sequences were obtained for the new species. Molecular analyses revealed the lowest divergence from G. lunatum (SSU: 1.7%; LSU: 19.8%), with greater divergence from other congeners (SSU: 4.0–4.6%; LSU: 30.5–37.1%). This represents the second record of Gammanema from Korean waters and provides new insights into trait combinations that may help define a subgroup within the genus. Full article