The Kenya Long-term Exclosure Experiment (KLEE) was established in 1995 in a semi-arid savanna rangeland on the Laikipia Plateau to examine the separate and combined effects of livestock, wildlife, and megaherbivores (elephants and giraffes) on their shared environment and on each other. The long-term nature of this experiment also allowed us to measure these effects and related questions of stability and resilience in the context of multiple drought-rainy cycles. Here we outline some of the lessons learned over the last 29 years. In particular, we summarize three ways that KLEE exemplifies the value of long-term studies: 1) identifying experimental effects that take a many years to express themselves, 2) quantifying the effects of different years, especially multiple droughts, and 3) capturing time periods long enough to see the signature of systemic, anthropogenic change in the broader landscape. Across all aspects of a long-term study such as this one, there is a need to incorporate both consistency and flexibility to ensure deeper understanding.

Pooling operations, essential for neural networks (NNs), reduce feature map dimensions while preserving key features and enhancing spatial invariance. Traditional pooling methods often miss the feature maps’ alternating current (AC) components. This study introduces a novel global pooling technique utilizing spectral self-attention, leveraging the discrete cosine transform (DCT) for spectral analysis and a self-attention mechanism for assessing frequency component significance. This approach allows for efficient feature synthesis through weighted averaging, significantly boosting TOP-1 accuracy with minimal parameter increase, outperforming existing models.

Background: Auxotrophic cancers for Arginine are a leading cause of death worldwide. The manufacture of novel arginine degrading enzymes such as Arginine deiminase enzyme is mandatory due to this crisis. Aim of the study: Since certain tumor cells are auxotrophic for Arginine, the depletion of the extracellular Arginine by means of Arginine deiminase enzyme was exploited in the present study to target such tumors. Methodology: Selective recovery of some bacterial isolates from different environmental sites in Egypt and assessment their capabilities for Arginine deiminase production. Studying environmental and physiological factors affecting Arginine deiminase production by some selected isolates. Characterization of of activity Arginine deiminase produced by certain selected isolates as well as its production through bacterial recombinant DNA technology. Results: The major bacterial isolates grown on mineral Arginine agar( MAA) plates producing ADI were further identified as Bacillus subtilis DE 111 using 16S rRNA sequencing technique. The Arginine deiminase production and activity were optimal at 40℃ and alkaline pH. Mn+2, Ni+2 and Co+2 metal ions as cofactors were optimum activators for production and activity of ADI. The results showed that the potent cytotoxic consequences of ADI were exerted on the renal and leukemic cancer cell lines. ADI produced via bacterial recombinant DNA technology showed efficacious IC50 10.31± 0.2 and 16.08± 0.3 µg/ml against renal( Caki-1) and leukemic( K-562) cancer cell lines, respectively. The purified monomeric ADI was 36.18 KDa molecular mass as determined using SDS-PAGE, the specific activity reached 36.07 U/mg. Km, Vmax and Kcat were 0.05871 M, 40.36 µmol/ml/min and 5.014min-1respectively. Optimum pH and temperature for productivity and activity ranged from 6-10 and 37-70℃,respectively. Total protein estimation using Bar-ford assay was determined to be 5.68 mg during the initial culture. ADI purification was achieved using 70% Ammonium Sulfate followed by Ni+2-immobilized affinity column chromatography with a final purification fold of 15.03. In vitro determination of biological half life of ADI using nesslerization assay was observed to be nearly 300 min. Conclusion: ADI produced from Bacillus subtilis DE111 demonstrated efficacious anticancer activities against leukemic( K-562) and renal( Caki-1) auxotrophic cancers for Arginine due to the depletion of L-arginine from the external surrounding environments.

Background: RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a deadly condition that is present all over the world today. Without systemic transmission, the infection is initially contained to the lower respiratory tract. The objective of the study: Bioinformatics was used in Egypt to create an mRNA vaccine against the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Methodology: In the present screening experimental study, lipid nanoparticles vaccine of mRNA of surface fusion protein of Respiratory syncytial virus was manufactured. The present vaccine delivery system was lipid nanoparticles with particle size approximately 90 nanometre which were manufactured by hot micro-emulsion method. In stages 1 and 2 of clinical trials, the immunogenicity of the current mRNA RSV vaccine was evaluated. Results: The current vaccine demonstrated 81% immunogenicity in animal testing, but only 69% in stages 1 and 2 of clinical trials. Its side effects were manageable. The results persisted for a while. In the current trial, the vaccination proved effective as a preventative measure against RSV infection. The current vaccination lacked antibody-dependent enhancement, which causes non-protective antibodies to develop. These non neutralizing antibodies exacerbate infection by the activation of cytokines and complement cascade through the formation of immune complexes or enhancement of the virus entry and replication in the host cells. On the other hand, the current RSV mRNA vaccine of the surface fusion protein consequent on production of powerful neutralizing antibodies with prolonged immunity especially to infants and elderly candidates whom received the optimal dosage regimen.

A majority of modern positioning solutions are based on global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). These systems provide an exact, reliable, flexible and cheap solution for the related tasks, like sea navigation, aviation or the automotive sector. However, they are vulnerable to deliberate or collateral disturbance by means of jammer or spoofer signals. Hardening the systems in an environment of ever increasing demand for reliability is therefore one of the big challenges in the field. This work presents a solution focused on an analog beamforming solution, due to its cost effectiveness. A prototype of a four antenna receiver is shown with a measured jammer suppression of above 30 dB . The measurement results were obtained in a realistic over the air scenario. The presented work functions as a proof of concept for an integrated version to be implemented in future.

Alkoxy radicals have emerged as versatile intermediates to synthesis various organic molecules, and the development of convenient methods for their generation is highly desired. In this work, a new method for the facile access to alkoxy radicals from bench-stable N-alkoxyphthalimides promoted by Zn has been developed for the first time. These alkoxyl radicals subsequently undergo β-scission or hydrogen atom transfer to produce diverse and valuable alkyl radical species, which can be further trapped by α-trifluoromethyl alkenes to construct structurally diverse gem-difluoroalkenes in good yields.

Understanding the relationship between plant diversity and invasibility is essential in invasion ecology. Elton proposed that species-rich communities are more resistant to invasions than species-poor communities. While soil microorganisms play a crucial role in regulating this diversity–invasibility relationship, the effects of plant competition mode and soil nutrient status on their role remain unclear. To address this, we conducted a two-stage greenhouse experiment. Soils were first conditioned by growing nine native species separately in them for one year, then mixed in various configurations with soils conditioned using one, three, or six species, respectively. Next, we inoculated the mixed soil into sterilized substrate soil and planted the alien species Rhus typhina and native species Ailanthus altissima as test plants. We set up two competition modes (intraspecific and interspecific) and two nutrient levels (fertilization using slow-release fertilizer and non-fertilization). Under intraspecific competition, regardless of fertilization, the biomass of the alien species was higher in soil conditioned by six native species. In contrast, under interspecific competition, the biomass increased without fertilization but remained stable with fertilization in soil conditioned by six native species. Analysis of the soil microbial community suggests that the greater diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the soil conditioned by six native species might reflect the primary influence on R. typhina growth, but the interaction between AMF and R. typhina varies depending on competition mode and nutrient status. Our findings suggest that the soil microbiome is pivotal in mediating the diversity–invasibility relationship, and this influence varies with competition mode and nutrient status.

Many theories of psychological function emphasize the importance of bodily sensations and the ability to accurately detect them, known as interoceptive accuracy. The most common measure of interoceptive accuracy uses heartbeat detection tasks such as the Whitehead Task, yet to our knowledge there are no freely accessible programs to conduct this task. In this paper, we present novel software called WACARDIA (Wireless Assessment of CARDiac Interoceptive Accuracy), which is free, open-source software that conducts the heartbeat detection task using Matlab and Psychtoolbox. WACARDIA contains several key features supporting participant engagement, operator convenience, and measurement accuracy. First, the program includes an optional practice trial of unlimited duration, a participant-facing graphical interface, and the ability to perform heartbeat detection training. Second, the operator is provided with a graphical user interface, live trial feedback, an accurate wireless electrocardiogram device, and a separate program to conduct the related Heartbeat Tracking task. Finally, the program ensures the accuracy of collected data by scheduling the delivery of tones with high precision and implementing fail-safes to automatically reset erroneous measurements. This paper includes flowcharts that help create transparency by describing our algorithm. We also outline customizable aspects of the program with the intent to have WACARDIA’s algorithm expanded to accommodate more situations and applications. With this paper, we hope to encourage the practice of publicizing research software to contribute to the transparency, rigor, and reproducibility of scientific studies. WACARDIA and video tutorials are available at http://wacardia.iankleckner.com.

According to the arousal model of vigilance, the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) system modulates sustained attention over long periods by regulating physiological arousal. Recent research has proposed that transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) modulates indirect physiological markers of LC-NE activity, although its effects on vigilance have not yet been examined. Aiming to develop a safe and non-invasive procedure to prevent vigilance failures in prolonged tasks, the present study examined the possibility to mitigate vigilance loss by stimulating the LC-NE system via taVNS. Following a pre-registered protocol (https://osf.io/tu2xy/), 50 participants completed three repeated-sessions in a randomized order in which either active taVNS at individualized intensity set by participant, active taVNS set at 0.5 mA for all participants, or sham taVNS, was delivered while performing an attentional and vigilance task (i.e., ANTI-Vea). Changes in salivary alpha-amylase and cortisol concentrations were measured as markers of LC-NE activity. Self-reports of feelings associated with stimulation and guessing rate of active/sham conditions supported the efficacy of the single-blind procedure. Contrary to our predictions, the observed vigilance decrement was not modulated by active taVNS. Pairwise comparisons showed a mitigation by active taVNS on cortisol reduction across time. Interestingly, Spearman’s correlational analyses showed some inter-individual effects of taVNS on indirect markers of LC-NE, evidenced by positive associations between changes in salivary alpha-amylase and cortisol in active but not sham taVNS. We highlight the relevance of replicating and extending the present outcomes, investigating further parameters of stimulation and its effects on other indirect markers of LC-NE activity.

This paper investigates the prescribed-time output consensus (PTOC) of heterogeneous multi-agent systems (MASs) based on sampled data. Firstly, a novel dynamic compensator is designed for each agent and its state is used to interact with its neighbors. Then, a hybrid sampling strategy (HSS), including a dynamic event-triggered sampling (ETS) and a time-triggered sampling (TTS), is developed to determine when to sample and broadcast the compensator state of agents. The execution of the HSS is divided into two steps, a dynamic ETS is presented before the first prescribed-time (PT) where the dynamic threshold decays to zero as time approaches the first PT. Subsequently, a TTS with a constant sampling period (CSP) is introduced after the first PT. With the proposed HSS, all compensators achieve the state consensus at the first PT while excluding the Zeno behavior. Based on the proposed dynamic compensators and the HSS, a fully distributed controller with high scalability and flexibility is developed. Through the Lyapunov stability theory, it is proved that the heterogeneous MASs with the proposed controller achieve the output consensus at the second PT (after the first PT). Finally, a simulation example on 8-wheeled mobile robots is performed to verify the validity of the theoretical results.

Background: Total body irradiation (TBI) is a pivotal part of conditioning prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), yet evidence regarding the effect of TBI delivery techniques on acute and late toxicities is sparse. Design: In a national cohort of pediatric HSCT-recipients we compared 3 TBI schedules from different time-periods: (1) TBI 12 Gray (Gy) delivered in 3 fractions from 2008-2011 (n=12), (2) 6 fractions with 2-dimensional (2D) planning technology from 2012- 2015 (n=16) and (3) 6 fractions with 3D-planning intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) from 2016-2020 (n=14). Results: The 5-year event-free survival was 75.0%, 81.3% and 81.3% in cohorts 1,2 and 3, respectively. Acute toxicity assessed as maximum ferritin and C-reactive protein during the first 3 months post-HSCT did not differ between cohorts, nor did the time to first hospital discharge (median 28, 32 and 31 days, p=0.25). The incidences of acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) (66%, 56%, 71%) and chronic GvHD (25%, 31% and 14%) were comparable. Pulmonary function assessed by spirometry did not differ significantly. More patients in cohort 1 developed cataract, with a 5-year cataract-free survival of 33.3%, 79% and 100% in cohorts 1,2 and 3, respectively. There was a non-significant tendency towards more endocrinopathies in cohort 1 compared to cohorts 2 and 3. Conclusion: The change of modality did not result in more relapses. More fractionation improved outcome with a lower incidence of cataract and a tendency towards fewer endocrinopathies. The effect of 3D-planning-IMRT technology requires further evaluation in larger studies.

Background: Acquired QT-prolongation in children undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is potentially fatal. To date specific recommendations for ECG monitoring during ALL treatment are lacking. Aim: We aimed to assess the prevalence of QT prolongation and explore possible causes in ALL patients undergoing therapy. Methods and Results: A retrospective review of the records of all pediatric ALL patients treated between 2018-2021 at the American University of Beirut was conducted. Patients lacking complete ECG records, baseline ECGs, or those with structural or functional heart disease were excluded from the study. QT interval was measured manually, and the longest measurement was chosen. Bazett’s formula was used to correct for heart rate. All medications, the patient was on at the time of the ECG recording were documented. In addition, the level of electrolytes measured within the preceding 24 hrs of the ECG were analyzed. 28 out of 257 ECGs met prolonged QTcB criteria (≥450 ms or ≥60 ms increase from baseline). Using multivariate analysis, age, cyclophosphamide, fluconazole, and voriconazole maintained their significant association with QTcB prolongation. Hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia showed association with QTc prolongation by bivariate analysis; however, this association could not be confirmed using Multivariate analysis due to the small sample size. The association between ondansetron and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) could not be determined as all patients were receiving those two medications. Importantly, life-threatening Ventricular arrhythmias, Torsade de pointes, did not occur in any of our patients. Conclusion: Our study provides insights into factors contributing to QTcB prolongation, including specific medications, chemotherapeutic agents and possibly hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia. To better understand these associations, larger prospective studies are necessary. In the interim, it is essential to conduct frequent follow-ups with ECGs when using these medications.

Background/Objectives Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric cancer, more incident in Hispanics. The Berlin-Frankfurt-Münster (BFM) protocol for ALL began to be used in hospitals from Rio de Janeiro in the 1980’s. The aim of this study was to determine survival probabilities and prognostic factors for children and adolescents with ALL in the state of Rio de Janeiro (RJ) and to compare these results with other BFM studies. Design/Methods We conducted a survival analysis study with a retrospective cohort of 695 patients aged from zero to 19 years treated with a modified BFM protocols between 1998 and 2018 in four reference hospitals in RJ. Prognostic factors included age, sex, leukocyte count, early response to treatment and cytogenetic risk. The cohort was divided into two periods. We calculated the five- and ten-years event-free survival (EFS), the overall survival (OS) and performed a multivariate analysis using Cox proportional hazards models. Results In the 1 st period the five-year EFS was 50.3% (±3.0) and the OS was 61.5 (±2.9). These rates for high-risk patients (HR) were 33.4% and 47.7%, respectively. In the 2 nd period, the five-year EFS was 61.6% (±2.8) and the OS was 70.5% (±10.6). These rates for HR patients were 57.9% and 63.8%. In the cohort, 51.2% of patients were HR based on BFM classification, 54.7% were HR based on the National Cancer Institute classification, 27.1% had a leukocyte count greater than 50,000 and 28.6% were aged less than one or greater than 10 years. Conclusions Our results led us to hypothesize that delays in treatment, overestimated risk classification on the 8 th day of treatment and/or unique genetic features of our population may be causing a higher leukocyte count at the time of diagnosis and an increased prevalence of HR classification compared to other BFM studies mainly composed by Caucasians.

Successful Sternotomy to Remove an Enlarging Symptomatic Pericardial CystAlexander M. Kravets1, Matthew R. Schill2, Muhammad Faraz Masood21 Department of Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland. Electronic address: [email protected] Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St Louis, Mo.Consent StatementWritten informed consent was obtained from the patient to publish this report in accordance with the journal’s patient consent policy.AbstractPericardial cysts (PCs) are rare. Most are discovered incidentally on radiographic imaging and are asymptomatic. Symptomatic patients may complain of chest pain and dyspnea. Delays in diagnosis and treatment are common. We report the case of a symptomatic 57-year-old female. CT and echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis and location, and the cyst was removed via sternotomy. A systematic approach is desired for the management of PCs.IntroductionCongenital pericardial cysts are fluid-filled, unilocular sacs lined by mesothelial cells. They typically form due to incomplete fusion of the pericardial sac during embryonic development [1]. Acquired pericardial cysts may result from trauma or inflammation of the pericardial sac. PCs occur in 1 in 100,000 patients and comprise 7% of all mediastinal masses [2]. They are most often found in the right cardiophrenic angle (70%) [1].Pericardial cysts were first described at autopsy in the mid-19th century [3]. Pericardial cysts are now most often diagnosed incidentally on radiographic imaging or echocardiography. Most patients are asymptomatic (75%) [2].Symptomatic patients typically complain of chest pain, dyspnea, and other symptoms resulting from the compression of structures adjacent to the pericardial sac. These symptoms may not correlate with physical activity. Worsening of symptoms at night has been reported in some patients. Nocturnal worsening of symptoms is gravity-dependent, resulting from a shift of fluid from the pericardium back into the pericardial sac [3].Patients presenting with symptoms typically experience delays in diagnosis and treatment. An increased awareness of this condition with respect to standardized follow-up and treatment may improve patient outcomes.We report the case of a 57-year-old female who presented with chronic symptoms resulting from a pericardial cyst in the left cardiophrenic angle.Case PresentationA 57-year-old female with a history of COPD and anxiety was referred to our clinic for evaluation of a pericardial cyst that had been incidentally diagnosed nearly two decades prior. She stated that approximately 3-4 years ago she began having hypertension and shortness of breath with activity. She had been recently evaluated for carotid artery disease, which was found to be negative for hemodynamically significant stenosis. She endorsed chest pain on her left side of her chest which could occur at any time. She also endorsed fatigue as well as progressive shortness of breath. She denied having lower extremity edema, orthopnea, PND, dizziness, or palpitations.On imaging, CT revealed a large pericardial cyst measuring 5 cm in diameter (Figure 1). The patient stated feeling as if she had an egg inside her chest. The cyst was confined to the left cardiophrenic angle and was adjacent to the fifth rib along the inner chest wall. Transthoracic echocardiogram was normal with slightly elevated BNP.

Changing CO2 concentrations have and will continue to affect plant growth with consequences for ecosystem functioning. The adaptive capacity of C3 photosynthesis to changes in atmospheric CO2 concentrations is, however, insufficiently investigated so far. Here we focused on the phylogenetic dynamics of maximum carboxylation rate (Vcmax) and maximum electron transport rate (Jmax) – two key determinants of photosynthetic efficiency in C3 plants – and their relation to deep-time dynamics in species diversification, speciation and atmospheric CO2 concentrations during the last 120 million years. We observed very strong positive relationships between photosynthetic efficiency and species diversification as well as speciation rates. Vcmax as well as species speciation and diversification furthermore increased during periods of low prehistoric CO2 concentrations. From our results we conclude strong links between photosynthetic efficiency and evolutionary dynamics in C3 plants. We furthermore conclude, that increasing future CO2 concentrations might rather hinder than facilitate evolutionary dynamics in C3 plants.

Background: Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), an intricate autoimmune disease causing tissue fibrosis, introduces cardiovascular complexities, notably pulmonary hypertension (PH), affecting both survival and quality of life. This study centers on evaluating echocardiographic parameters and endothelial function using Flow Mediated Dilatation (FMD) in SSc patients, aiming to differentiate those with and without pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The emphasis lies in early detection, given the heightened vulnerability of the right ventricle in the presence of PH. Methods: 59 SSc patients and 48 healthy subjects participated, undergoing clinical examinations, echocardiography, FMD assessments, blood analyses, and, when necessary, right heart catheterization (RHC). Results: SSc-PAH patients displayed lower FMD, increased TAPSE <18 mm, RA area >18 cm2, and TRV >280 cm/sec compared to those without PAH and healthy controls. Resting Resistivity Index (RI) was higher in SSc patients, with no significant difference between those with and without PAH. Lower FMD% serves as a predictive marker for adverse cardiovascular outcomes in both SSc and SSc-PAH patients. Stratification by TRV levels and PAH presence reveals notable FMD% variations, emphasizing its potential utility. Conclusions: Early identification of endothelial dysfunction and echocardiographic parameters, such as TAPSE and TRV, could aid in predicting right ventricular dysfunction and PAH in SSc patients.

Blood-filled cysts (BFCs) are considered benign and often asymptomatic, most originate from congenital. However, BFCs of the heart valves are common at autopsy in infants but rare in adults. We report the case of an adult female who presented with a solitary complaint of chest distress on exertion, which led to the discovery of an intracardiac cystic mass on the anterior tricuspid leaflet. A single surgical intervention was sufficient to remove the resected cystic mass. Our case is the first to report a highly unusual blood-filled cyst on the anterior tricuspid leaflet in an adult.

Structures at serine-proline sites in proteins were analyzed using a combination of peptide synthesis with structural methods and bioinformatics analysis of the PDB. Dipeptides were synthesized with the proline derivative (2 S,4 S)-(4-iodophenyl)hydroxyproline [hyp(4-I-Ph)]. The crystal structure of Boc-Ser-hyp(4-I-Ph)-OMe had two molecules in the unit cell. One molecule exhibited cis-proline and a type VIa2 β-turn (BcisD). The cis-proline conformation was stabilized by a C–H/O interaction between Pro C–H α and the Ser side-chain oxygen. NMR data were consistent with stabilization of cis-proline by a C–H/O interaction in solution. The other crystallographically observed molecule had trans-Pro and both residues in the PPII conformation. Two conformations were observed in the crystal structure of Ac-Ser-hyp(4-I-Ph)-OMe, with Ser adopting PPII in one and the β conformation in the other, each with Pro in the δ conformation and trans-Pro. Structures at Ser-Pro sequences were further examined via bioinformatics analysis of the PDB and via DFT calculations. Ser–Pro versus Ala-Pro sequences were compared to identify bases for Ser stabilization of local structures. C–H/O interactions between the Ser side-chain O γ and Pro C–H α were observed in 45% of structures with Ser- cis-Pro in the PDB, with nearly all Ser- cis-Pro structures adopting a type VI β-turn. 53% of Ser- trans-Pro sequences exhibited main-chain C=O i•••H–N i +3 or C=O i•••H–N i +4 hydrogen bonds, with Ser as the i residue and Pro as the i+1 residue. These structures were overwhelmingly either type I β-turns or N-terminal capping motifs on α-helices or a 3 10-helices. These results indicate that Ser-Pro sequences are particularly potent in favoring these structures. In each, Ser is in either the PPII or β conformation, with the Ser O γ capable of engaging in a hydrogen bond with the amide N–H of the i+2 (type I β-turn or 3 10-helix; Ser χ 1 t) or i+3 (α-helix; Ser χ 1 g+) residue. Non-proline cis amide bonds can also be stabilized by C–H/O interactions.

Biodiversity loss has reached critical levels due in part to anthropogenic habitat loss and degradation. These landscape changes are particularly damaging as they can result in fragmenting species distributions into small and isolated populations, resulting in limited gene flow, population declines and reduced adaptive potential. Genetic rescue, the translocation of individuals for the purpose of restoring gene flow, has been shown to produce promising results for fragmented populations but remains relatively under-used due to a lack of long-term data and monitoring of genetic rescue attempts. To promote a better understanding of genetic rescue and its potential risks and benefits over the short-term, we reviewed and analyzed all genetic rescue attempts to date to identify whether genetic diversity increases following rescue, and if this change is associated with increased fitness. Our review identified only 19 genetic rescue studies, that included experimental, natural, and conservation motivated, with the majority of studies being on mammals. We used a Bayesian meta-analytical approach to examine the relationship between fitness and genetic diversity. We found that genetic diversity, as represented by heterozygosity, was a positive predictor of population fitness, and this relationship extended to the third-generation post-rescue. These data suggest a single introduction can have lasting fitness benefits, supporting translocation as another tool to ensure conservation success. Given the limited number of studies with long-term data, we echo the need for genetic monitoring of translocations to ascertain whether genetic rescue may also limit the loss of adaptive potential in the long-term.

Chlamydia psittaci ( C. psittaci) is an obligate intracellular bacterium that replicates in neutrophils, a significant producer of reactive oxygen species(ROS). However, the effect of ROS on C. psittaci infection and whether C. psittaci regulates ROS production in neutrophils is unclear. When C. psittaci infects neutrophils, it can induce the production of a small amount of ROS, affect the assembly of NADPH oxidase through p38/ERK signaling pathways, and actively block the ROS produced by PMA-stimulated neutrophils. Importantly, this study may provide new insights into the molecular pathogenesis and immune escape of C. psittaci.

Viewing interfaces as collective role of urban spatial planning and early childcare education approach, the study documents urban built space challenges of preschools in the context of rapid urbanization. It aims at identifying policy, institutional and practice gaps in addressing preschool infrastructure, education, and early childhood care policy implementation in Addis Ababa. A case study of private and public pre-schools was considered. A qualitative design was used to collect data from secondary and primary sources. Data on pre-school policies, practices, regulations, and data on implementation were collected. Key informant interviews were used to collect primary data, including the perspectives of policy-makers and implementers. The thematic data analysis revealed that, urban planning lacks a detail working plan at local level that can be translated to action in addressing the challenges of preschools. The spatial plan and education policy do not incorporate early childhood care and education infrastructure demands of the preschools observed. Thus, policy and institutional gaps need to be recognized and addressed to solve the challenges of preschool infrastructure and to create a conducive space for early childhood education in Addis Ababa.

Membrane proteins play a significant role in ion transport across cell membranes. They act as channels or transporters that allow ions to move across the membrane. Channels are typically selective for specific ions, while transporters move multiple types of ions. These proteins use energy from ATP or the electrochemical gradient to move ions against their concentration gradient. The movement of ions through these proteins generates an electrical potential difference across the membrane, which is important for various physiological processes. Noticeably, the epithelial tissues form barriers that separate different compartments in the body, such as the lumen of the gut, the ducts of glands, and the external environment. Epithelial cells play a significant role in ion transport and current in biological systems. For example, epithelial cells in the gut are responsible for the absorption of nutrients and water, and they use ion channels and transporters to move ions such as sodium, potassium, and chloride across their membranes. This process creates an electrical potential difference across the epithelial cell layer, leading to the generation of a current that drives ion movement. Importantly, the disruptions in membrane proteins and epithelial transport are implicated in many diseases, including cystic fibrosis, hypertension, arrhythmia, kidney disease, diarrhea, and renal failure. Studying the mechanisms will identify potential therapeutic targets and develop treatments for these diseases.

Flight can be highly-energy demanding, but its efficiency depends largely on flight style, wing shape and loading, and a range of morphological and lifestyle adaptations that can modify the cost of sustained flight. Such behavioural and morphological adaptations can also influence the physiological costs associated with migration. For instance, during intense flight and catabolism of reserves, lipid damage induced by pro-oxidants increases, and to keep oxidative physiological homeostasis under control, the antioxidant machinery is upregulated. Studies on the oxidative physiology of endurance flight have produced contradictory results, making generalization difficult, especially because multispecies studies are missing. Therefore, to explore the oxidative cost of flight and migration, we explored the association between three measures of the antioxidant capacity (total antioxidant status, uric acid and glutathione concentration) and one measure of oxidative damage of lipids (malondialdehyde) with variables reflecting flight energetics (year-round or specifically during migration) across 113 European bird species using a phylogenetic framework. We found that none of the traits predicting year-round flight energy expenditure, including flight style, wing morphology and flight muscle morphology explained any measures of oxidative state measured during the energy demanding breeding period, suggesting that birds endure their everyday exercise without or low oxidative cost. However, oxidative damage to lipids and one component of the endogenous antioxidant system (uric acid), measured after the end of spring migration on breeding adult birds, increased with migration distance. Our results suggest that migration might have oxidative consequences that are carried over to subsequent life history stages (breeding).

The essential factor in developing multi-robot systems is the generation of an optimal path for task completion by multiple robots. This paper studies the recent publications and provides a detailed review of the path planning approaches to avoid collisions in uncertain environments. In this article, path planning approaches for multiple robots are categorized primarily into classical, heuristic, and artificial intelligence-based methods. Among the heuristic approaches, bio-inspired approaches are mostly employed to optimize the classical approaches to enhance their adaptability. The articles are analyzed based on static and dynamic scenarios, real-time experiments, and simulations involving hybrid solutions. The increasing focus on using hybrid approaches in dynamic environments is found mostly in the papers employing heuristic and AI-based approaches. In real-time applications, AI-based approaches are highly implemented in comparison to heuristic and classical approaches. The findings from this review can help researchers select the appropriate approach to overcome the limitations in designing efficient multi-robot systems.