Extensive Damage Research Articles

Ex vivo delivery of dsRNA targeting ryanodine receptors for control of Tuta absoluta.

RNA interference (RNAi) is an endogenous eukaryote viral defence mechanism representing a unique form of post-transcriptional gene silencing. Owing to its high specificity, this technology is being developed for use in dsRNA-based biopesticides for control of pest insects. Whilst many lepidopteran species are recalcitrant to RNAi, Tuta absoluta, a polyphagous insect responsible for extensive crop damage, is sensitive. Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are intracellular calcium channels regulating calcium ion (Ca2+) release. The chemical pesticide class of diamides functions agonistically against lepidopteran RyR, resulting in uncontrolled Ca2+ release, feeding cessation and death. Resistance to diamides has emerged in T. absoluta, derived from RyR point mutations. RNAi was used to target RyR transcripts of T. absoluta. Data presented here demonstrate the systemic use of exogenous T. absoluta RyR-specific (TaRy) dsRNA in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) to significantly downregulate expression of the target gene, resulting in significant insect mortality and reduced leaf damage. Using a leaflet delivery system, daily dosing of 3 μg TaRy dsRNA for 72 h resulted in 50% downregulation of the target gene and 50% reduction in tomato leaf damage. Corrected larval mortality and adult emergence were reduced by 38% and 33%, respectively. TaRy dsRNA demonstrated stability in tomato leaves ≤72 h after dosing. This work identifies TaRy as a promising target for RNAi control of this widespread crop pest. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Characteristics of Damage to Rural Houses in the High-Intensity Area of the Jishishan Mw 6.2 Earthquake

On 18 December 2023, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck Jishishan, affecting multiple counties and cities in Gansu and Qinghai Provinces. The seismic intensity of the meizoseismal area was VIII, resulting in extensive structural damage and building collapses. A damage assessment was conducted of the epicenter and surrounding high-intensity zones. To understand the typical structures and characteristics of the buildings that were damaged in these high-intensity zones, this study summarizes the characteristics of the damage to typical rural houses, compares the damage of the rural houses across different sites, and analyzes the causes behind these variations. The findings of the study indicate the following: (1) Timber and some brick–timber structures, due to their age, insufficient material strength, and lack of adequate connections between parts of the building, primarily experienced severe damage or total collapse, characterized by through-wall cracks, partial collapses, or complete collapses. (2) Brick–concrete structures predominantly suffered moderate to severe damage due to factors such as improper layout, uneven façades, and inadequate or incomplete seismic measures. The observed damage included significant wall cracks and extensive damage to two-story buildings. (3) Frame structures, mainly used for public facilities like schools, hospitals, and health centers, exhibited strong integrity and excellent seismic performance, resulting in minimal to no damage, with damage largely confined to non-load-bearing components. (4) The amplification effects of seismic waves in thick loess basin areas, slope sites, and the hanging wall effect of faults exacerbated structural damage to rural houses located in certain villages within the high-intensity areas. The results of this study can serve as a reference for post-disaster reconstruction and seismic retrofitting of buildings and contribute positively to enhancing the disaster resilience of rural housing.

Targeting P-selectin and interleukin-1β in mice with sickle cell disease: effects on vaso-occlusion, liver injury and organ iron deposition.

Continuous vaso-occlusive and inflammatory processes cause extensive end-organ damage in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD), and there is little evidence that longterm hydroxyurea therapy prevents this. In initial trials, P-selectin blockade with crizanlizumab reduced SCD vaso-occlusive crisis frequency, and interleukin (IL)-1β inhibition in SCD patients, using canakinumab, lowered inflammatory markers. We used murine SCD models to examine the effects of acute and chronic blockade of Pselectin and of IL-1β on vaso-occlusive events, their inflammatory profile and organ health. Both approaches improved impaired cutaneous microvascular perfusion in SCD mice by reducing TNF-α-induced vaso-occlusion. Acute P-selectin blockade markedly reduced TNF-α-induced neutrophil-platelet aggregate formation in SCD mice, and decreased leukocyte-rolling movements in the microvasculature, while acute IL-1β inhibition attenuated microvascular leukocyte adhesion. Six weeks of IL-1β-blocking immunotherapy improved the inflammatory profile of SCD mice, considerably reduced hepatic fibrosis and provided some relief from lung injury. In contrast, although Pselectin blockade reduced glomerular congestion, no significant benefit to overall organ pathology was observed. Unexpectedly, while combining the two immunotherapies reduced microvascular occlusion, their prolonged use caused acute liver injury. Notably, inhibition of IL-1β, but not of P-selectin, remarkably decreased hemosiderosis, in association with reduced tissue macrophage infiltration and the correction of biomarkers of dysregulated iron turnover. Our findings suggest that the attenuation of inflammation, as well as of vaso-occlusive processes, may be crucial for mitigating organ damage in SCD. Future trials should explore the ability of cytokine blockade to prevent multiorgan damage in patients with SCD, beyond evaluating vaso-occlusive crisis frequency.

Seismic scenario simulation and ANN-based ground motion model development on the North Tabriz Fault in Northwest Iran

AbstractEarthquakes pose significant seismic hazards in urban regions, often causing extensive damage to the built environment. In regions lacking robust seismic monitoring networks or sufficient data from historical events, ground motion simulations are crucial for assessing potential earthquake impacts. Yet, validating these simulations is challenging, leading to notable predictive uncertainty. This study aims to simulate four scenario earthquakes with moment magnitudes of 6.8, 7.1, 7.4, and 7.7 in Iran, specifically investigating variations in fault plane rupture and earthquake hypocenter. The North Tabriz Fault (NTF), located within the seismic gap in northwest Iran, is selected as the case study due to the lack of well-recorded ground motions from severe earthquakes, despite historical evidence of large-magnitude events. Simulations are conducted using a stochastic finite-fault ground motion simulation methodology with a dynamic corner frequency. Validation of the simulations is performed by comparing estimated peak ground motions and pseudo-spectral ordinates with existing ground motion models (GMMs), supplemented by inter-period correlation analysis. Simulation results reveal high hazard levels, especially in the northeastern area near the fault plane. Intensity maps in terms of the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale underscore the urgency for comprehensive preparedness measures. Finally, a region-specific GMM is developed using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to predict peak ground motion parameters with an online platform accessible to end-users.

Seismic Fragility Analysis for Probabilistic Risk Assessment of Underground Structures

ABSTRACT The seismic assessment of urban tunnels, crucial for city infrastructure, particularly shallow tunnels in transportation systems, is vital for risk mitigation. This study focused on the Ahwaz twin tunnels in Iran, using incremental dynamic analysis and probabilistic risk assessment. Evaluating seismic behavior through 15 earthquake records, the study generated fragility curves for operational, minor, moderate, and extensive damage states. Results indicate a 99.5% probability of operational limit at a PGA of 0.35 g, with seismic risk assessment aligning with safety class 3 of the Swedish Transportation Administration.

Microsurgical vascular suture

Anastomosis of two vessels by end-to-end or end-to-side suturing to create an uninterrupted blood flow between the two vessels. Transplantations; replantations; vascular trauma. Active infections in the area to be vascularized or surgical site; large differences in caliber between the vessels; hypercoagulability; extensive tissue damage. First, clamping, cleaning and flushing of the vessel ends; adaptation of the vessel ends using end-to-end or end-to-side anastomosis, using an end-to-side anastomosis if an existing vessel axis should not be interrupted; creation of the anastomosis using asingle button suture or continuous suture technique; careful avoidance of puncturing the posterior wall and exact adaptation of the vessel ends without leaks; release of the blood flow and examination of the anastomosis. Postoperative avoidance of traction, tension, pressure and shear forces on the anastomosis; regular blood flow checks of the revascularized tissue or flap; sufficient anticoagulation. An atraumatic and gentle suturing technique is abasic requirement for asuccessful anastomosis. Special suturing techniques can improve the anastomosis of fragile vessels.

Reconstructing hail days in Switzerland with statistical models (1959–2022)

Abstract. Hail is one of the costliest natural hazards in Switzerland and causes extensive damage to agriculture, cars, and infrastructure each year. In a warming climate, hail frequency and its patterns of occurrence are expected to change, which is why understanding the long-term variability and its drivers is essential. This study presents new multidecadal daily hail time series for northern and southern Switzerland from 1959 to 2022. Daily radar hail proxies and environmental predictor variables from ERA5 reanalysis are used to build an ensemble statistical model for predicting past hail occurrence. Hail days are identified from operational radar-derived probability of hail (POH) data for two study domains, the north and south of the Swiss Alps. We use data from 2002 to 2022 during the convective season from April to September. A day is defined as a hail day when POH surpasses 80 % for a minimum footprint area of the two domains. Separate logistic regression and logistic generalized additive models (GAMs) are built for each domain and combined in an ensemble prediction to reconstruct the final time series. Overall, the models are able to describe the observed time series well. Historical hail reports are used for comparing years with the most and least hail days. For the northern and southern domains, the time series both show a significant positive trend in yearly aggregated hail days from 1959 to 2022. The trend is still positive and significant when considering only the period of 1979–2022. In all models, the trends are driven by moisture and instability predictors. The last 2 decades show a considerable increase in hail days, which is the strongest in May and June. The seasonal cycle has not shifted systematically across decades. This time series allows us to study the local and remote drivers of the interannual variability and seasonality of Swiss hail occurrence.

DDDR-06. ENHANCING GLIOBLASTOMA TREATMENT WITH MOLYBDENUM DISULFIDE(MOS2) NANOMATERIALS AND ULTRASOUND-TRIGGERED TUMOR GROWTH INHIBITION

Abstract INTRODUCTION Glioblastoma, known for its high mortality rate and limited treatment options, poses a persistent challenge in oncology. Despite advances in surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, patient outcomes have seen only marginal improvements, with ongoing issues of high recurrence and low survival rates. The advent of nanotechnology, particularly the emergence of Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoparticles, offers new perspective in semiconductors, energy storage as well as cancer therapies. With its unique physical and chemical properties, MoS2 nanoparticles might be promising in its potential roles in the battle against cancer. We aimed to see whether ultrasound-treated MoS2 nanoparticles can interfere with growth of glioblastoma cells. METHODS MoS2 nanoparticles were added to the medium of glioblastoma cells and ultrasound treatments were given. We monitor the cell count as well as cell migration after the treatments. RESULTS MoS2 nanoparticles was found to significantly interfere with tumor cell proliferation and boost the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These reactive oxygen species were crucial for the apoptosis of brain tumor cells when in the right concentration. Our analysis also demonstrated that MoS2 impedes cell migration and infiltration, effectively halting tumor expansion. Additionally, Comet assay techniques confirmed extensive DNA damage in the treated cells, highlighting MoS2’s potent DNA-altering capabilities which promote programmed cell death. CONCLUSION The implications of these findings are significant, establishing a solid scientific basis for employing MoS2 nanoparticles as a targeted anti-cancer agent for brain tumors. While this study underscores the transformative potential of MoS2 nanoparticles in clinical oncology, it also acknowledges limitations such as the need for further clinical trials to evaluate efficacy and safety in humans. Key Words: MoS2 nanoparticles, Ultrasound treatment, Reactive oxygen species, Comet assay, Programmed cell death

DNAR-07. ATR INHIBITORS IN COMBINATION WITH RADIATION AND TEMOZOLOMIDE INCREASE CELL DEATH OF PATIENT-DERIVED GLIOBLASTOMA CELLS

Abstract Glioblastoma is treated with surgery to remove as much as the tumour as possible then radiation therapy (RT) and temozolomide (TMZ) to cause extensive DNA damage in any remaining tumour cells, triggering cell death by apoptosis. However, glioblastoma cells respond by upregulating the DNA damage response (DDR) triggering DNA repair that contributes to treatment resistance. Progression then generally occurs rapidly leaving patients with a poor prognosis and survival. We previously showed that gartisertib, an inhibitor of ATM- and Rad3-Related protein (ATR), a serine/threonine kinase that triggers DNA repair, sensitises glioblastoma cells to TMZ and RT. We extend this investigation to brain-penetrant ATR inhibitors elimusertib (BAY1895344) and ceralasertib (AZD6738). Patient-derived glioblastoma cell lines were treated with a dose response of ATRi (elimusertib and ceralasertib) combined with a clinically relevant dose of TMZ (35uM) and/or RT (2Gy). A human astrocyte cell line was also treated with a dose response of single agent elimusertib and ceralasertib. Cells were incubated for 7 days and assessed for cell viability through an MTT assay or cell-cell Incucyte analysis. Both elimusertib and ceralasertib as single agents reduced glioblastoma cell growth, with elimusertib being more potent compared to ceralasertib. Elimusertib had greater potency in causing cell death of the glioblastoma cell lines than a human astrocyte cell line. However, there was less difference between glioblastoma and astrocyte cell death when treated with ceralasetib. When combined with RT and/or TMZ, elimusertib once again was more potent in reducing glioblastoma cell growth compared to ceralasertib. We have expanded our in vitro data showing that various ATR inhibitors (elimusertib, ceralasertib and previously gartisertib) are able to reduce the growth of glioblastoma cells in combination with RT and TMZ treatment. This provides further support for initiating a clinical trial of ATR inhibition in combination with standard treatment for patients with glioblastoma.

EXTH-31. TARGETINGMIR-19B/PPP2R5E REGULATORY AXIS TO MAXIMISE ALKYLATING AGENT EFFICACY: A NEW AVENUE TO COUNTERACT TEMOZOLOMIDE RESISTANCE IN RECURRENT GLIOBLASTOMAS

Abstract Glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype (GBM), notorious for its inevitable recurrence despite aggressive multi-modal standard of care, presents a pressing need for novel treatment paradigms. The extensive DNA damage caused by the frontline DNA alkylating agent, temozolomide (TMZ) is counteracted by intricate or acquired survival mechanisms. Through functional microRNA screens we identified miR-19b-overexpressing clones possessing extra fitness in presence of escalating doses of TMZ. Our study uncovers a previously unrecognized TMZ resistance mechanism governed by miR-19b. Notably, miR-19b attenuation intensified DNA damage response and CHEK1 and CHEK2 phosphorylation, instigating persistent DNA lesions and consequently priming GBM cells for heightened TMZ cytotoxicity. Mechanistically, we showed that miR-19b exerts its function by targeting PPP2R5E, a subunit of protein phosphatase PP2A, frequently downregulated in GBM. We uncovered that the elevated DNA damage response in the miR-19b-attenuated cells was a consequence of enhanced nuclear and mitochondrial ROS production. This in turn, induced ROS-mediated senescence, and an intriguing susceptibility to ferroptosis, possibly due to increased ROS-mediated lipid peroxidation. Of note, all these phenotypes were reversed in GBM cells with concomitant miR-19b and PPP2R5E attenuation, demonstrating that miR-19b exerts its role in TMZ resistance by targeting PPP2R5E. In line with this finding, an orthotopic human-derived glioblastoma stem cell xenograft model confirmed that PPP2R5E attenuation not only decreases TMZ cytotoxicity in the brain, but also at the spinal metastatic location. Consistently, treating cells with the PP2A-activating drug FTY720 or knocking down endogenous PP2A-inhibiting proteins mirrored the effects of miR-19b attenuation in enhancing TMZ cytotoxicity. This intricate interplay between miR-19b and PPP2R5E underscores a novel strategy to modulate the TMZ response, highlighting promising results in our pre-clinical models. In conclusion, our findings advocate for the therapeutic targeting of the miR-19b/PPP2R5E regulatory axis as a potential novel strategy in the pursuit of effective therapeutic interventions for the formidable recurrent GBM tumours.

Wall-Eyed Internuclear Ophthalmoplegia: History and Hypothesis.

Most patients with internuclear ophthalmoplegia (INO) are orthotropic, although a subset is exotropic. When INO is bilateral, this is termed wall-eyed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia (WEBINO). In 1979, Sharpe described his "first case" of wall-eyed monocular internuclear ophthalmoplegia (WEMINO) as "a unique clinical syndrome" characterized by unilateral INO and ipsilateral exotropia. WEMINO was clinically identified in seven patients, with oculographic correlation in six and neuropathological confirmation in one. Oculographic features of exotropic INO patients were compared with those of six orthotropic INO patients using magnetic search coil and infrared oculography. All clinically defined WEMINO patients showed slowed, hypometric ipsilateral saccades by oculography. Six patients had ipsilateral exotropia, and three had ipsilateral hypertropia. Ipsilateral abducting saccades had faster peak velocities for smaller saccades, more so for orthotropic patients. Exotropic patients had normal sinusoidal mean vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) gains and phases; orthotropic patients had subnormal mean VOR gains and phase leads. WEMINO is a clinical ocular motor syndrome characterized by unilateral slow, hypometric adducting saccades with exotropia and hypertropia of the ipsilateral eye. We propose that it results from discrete unilateral damage to burst-tonic fibers in the medial longitudinal fasciculus (MLF) with sparing of the adjacent extrafascicular pathways. Paradoxically, orthotropic INO results from more extensive damage to ascending pathways lateral, ventral and caudal to the MLF. Direct injury to the medial rectus subnucleus is not required. This manuscript was in preparation at the time of Dr Sharpe's death in 2013 and is an acknowledgement of his forward-thinking, as his hypotheses have stood the test of time.

Rapid Microfluidic Biosensor for Point-of-Care Determination of Rheumatoid Arthritis via Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody Detection.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes extensive damage to multiple organs and tissues and has no known cure. This study introduces a microfluidic detection platform that combines a microfluidic reaction chip with a micro-spectrometer to accurately detect the anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (anti-CCP Ab) biomarker, commonly associated with arthritis. The surface of the microfluidic reaction chip is functionalized using streptavidin to enable the subsequent immobilization of biotinylated-labeled cyclic citrullinated peptide (biotin-CCP) molecules through a streptavidin-biotin reaction. The modified chip is then exposed to anti-CCP Ab, second antibody conjugated with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) (2nd Ab-HRP), 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB), and a stop solution. Finally, the concentration of the anti-CCP Ab biomarker is determined by analyzing the optical density (OD) of the colorimetric reaction product at 450 nm using a micro-spectrometer. The detection platform demonstrated a strong correlation (R2 = 0.9966) between OD and anti-CCP Ab concentration. This was based on seven control samples with anti-CCP Ab concentrations ranging from 0.625 to 100 ng/mL. Moreover, for 30 artificial serum samples with unknown anti-CCP Ab concentrations, the biosensor achieves a correlation coefficient of (R2 = 0.9650). The proposed microfluidic detection platform offers a fast and effective method for accurately identifying and quantifying the anti-CCP Ab biomarker. Thus, it offers a valuable tool for the early diagnosis and monitoring of RA and its progression in point-of-care settings.

A Forest Fire Prediction Model Based on Meteorological Factors and the Multi-Model Ensemble Method

More than half of South Korea’s land area is covered by forests, which significantly increases the potential for extensive damage in the event of a forest fire. The majority of forest fires in South Korea are caused by humans. Over the past decade, more than half of these types of fires occurred during the spring season. Although human activities are the primary cause of forest fires, the fact that they are concentrated in the spring underscores the strong association between forest fires and meteorological factors. When meteorological conditions favor the occurrence of forest fires, certain triggering factors can lead to their ignition more easily. The purpose of this study is to analyze the meteorological factors influencing forest fires and to develop a machine learning-based prediction model for forest fire occurrence, focusing on meteorological data. The study focuses on four regions within Gangwon province in South Korea, which have experienced substantial damage from forest fires. To construct the model, historical meteorological data were collected, surrogate variables were calculated, and a variable selection process was applied to identify relevant meteorological factors. Five machine learning models were then used to predict forest fire occurrence and ensemble techniques were employed to enhance the model’s performance. The performance of the developed forest fire prediction model was evaluated using evaluation metrics. The results indicate that the ensemble model outperformed the individual models, with a higher F1-score and a notable reduction in false positives compared to the individual models. This suggests that the model developed in this study, when combined with meteorological forecast data, can potentially predict forest fire occurrence and provide insights into the expected severity of fires. This information could support decision-making for forest fire management, aiding in the development of more effective fire response plans.

Deformation prediction of overlying strata in multi-seam mining based on the influence function method-key stratum hybrid model

The extraction of coal seams from subterranean strata has the potential to induce displacement and deformation within the overlying strata. This leads to fractures in the strata and surface subsidence. The repetitive mining of coal seams, especially in scenarios involving multiple coal seams, can reactivate previously stabilized rock strata, causing them to subside and deform again. This exacerbates deformation and compromises the structural integrity of the strata. Consequently, there is an imperative need to thoroughly investigate the patterns of movement exhibited by overlying rock layers as a result of the recurrent extraction of coal seams. In recent years, significant progress in this field has been the effective utilization of the Influence Function Method-Key Stratum (IFM-KS) hybrid model. This model, distinguished by its amalgamation of mechanical and geometric methodologies, has proven to be efficacious in scrutinizing the movement dynamics of overlying strata in the context of single-layer mining operations. Based on that, this paper introduces a novel model for predicting rock layer movement and deformation in multi-seam mining. The calculation results derived from this model reveal the dynamics of rock layers' movement and deformation following secondary disturbances during repetitive mining. The accuracy and reliability of this newly proposed model in predicting rock movement during dual-layer coal mining are validated through both theoretical calculations and UDEC numerical simulations. The results demonstrate a high degree of consistency between the numerically simulated rock displacement and mathematical calculations and the rationality of the model. Based on the rock strata movement calculation results, the corresponding porosity distribution is also derived. Compared to single-layer coal mining, multi-seam mining could cause greater changes in porosity in the goaf area and extensive damage to rock strata. More fracture pathways between coal seams occur and a volume of air-leakage quantity is expected. This computational model provides invaluable insights for predicting rock strata deformation and porosity distribution in repetitive mining scenarios of a similar nature.

Is autophagy always a death sentence? A case study of highly selective cytoplasmic degradation during phloemogenesis.

The transformation of sieve elements (SEs) from meristematic cells, equipped with a full complement of organelles, to specialized transport tubes devoid of a nucleus, has long been enigmatic. We hypothesized a strong involvement of various degradation pathways, particularly macroautophagy in this context, emphasizing the importance of autophagic selectivity in the remaining viability of these cells. Experiments were performed on pioneer roots of Populus trichocarpa cultivated in rhizotrons under field conditions. Through anatomical, ultrastructural and molecular analyses, we delineate the stages of phloemogenesis and the concurrent alterations in the cytoplasmic composition of SEs. Notably, we observed not only macroautophagic structures, but also the formation of autophagic plastids, the selective degradation of specific organelles, vacuole disruption and the release of vacuolar contents. These events initially lead to localized reductions in cytoplasm density, but organelle-rich cytoplasmic phase is safeguarded from the extensive damage by a membrane system derived from the endoplasmic reticulum. SE ultimately develops into a conduit containing electron-translucent cytoplasm. Eventually, mature SE is a tube filled only by the translucent cytoplasm, with sparse organelles tethered to the cell wall. Although the activation of programmed cell death pathways was postulated, the persistence of SEs indicates that protoplast depletion is meticulously regulated by hitherto unidentified mechanisms. This research elucidates the sequential processes occurring in these cells during phloemogenesis and unveils novel insights into the mechanisms of selective autophagy.

Barn Owls as a Nature-Based Solution for Pest Control: A Multinational Initiative Around the Mediterranean and Other Regions

Pest rodents cause extensive damage to crops worldwide. Up to 40% of global crop production is lost annually to pests and diseases, with rodents accounting for 15–30% of this loss amounting to billions of dollars each year. The current method of controlling rodent populations involves the extensive use of chemical rodenticides. While effective in the short term, these chemicals pose serious environmental and health risks, leading to secondary poisoning of non-target species and other long-term negative ecological consequences, underscoring the need to adopt more sustainable pest-control measures. Nature-Based Solutions (NbSs), on the other hand, are increasingly recognized for addressing environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development, and they include actions that protect, sustainably manage, and restore ecosystems. In this context, Barn Owls (Tyto alba) are highly effective as a natural pest-rodent control agents in agro-ecosystems. The species has a wide distribution and adaptability to various environments, and its diet consists predominantly of small mammals, with rodents making up from 50–60% up to even 90–95% of the diet according to different geographical regions. Each Barn Owl family can consume thousands of rodents annually, creating a high potential to reduce crop damage and infestations. Deploying nest boxes in agricultural areas can significantly increase Barn Owl populations, ensuring continuous and effective rodent control. Limitations of this solution must also be taken into consideration such as predation on rodents and small mammals that are not pests, and possible competition with other nocturnal birds of prey. Ιn the current paper, we aim to introduce the concept of owls as a NbS for pest rodent control and outline the main challenges, pitfalls, advantages, and disadvantages of implementing this solution in a new geographical region, and all the necessary in-between steps (scientific, societal, administrative, educational) that have to be followed for a successful implementation. So far, several countries have successfully implemented Barn Owl nest box schemes, with Israel and Cyprus achieving reduction in the use of pesticides by 45% and 58%, respectively, whereas the project is spreading to other Mediterranean countries (Jordan, Palestine Authority, Greece, Morocco, Spain), in palm plantations in Malaysia and USA, and in the vineyards of Napa Valley in California. The success of Barn Owl nest box programs relies on integrating scientific research, societal needs, supportive policy frameworks, and education. Barn Owl nest box programs are both bottom-up and top-down initiatives, in need of the participation of farmers and local communities to establish and deploy the Barn Owl solution. Continuous research is also necessary to explore systematically Barn owl trophic ecology, foraging and breeding ecology, interactions with agricultural landscape, and land uses in temporal and spatial scales, and challenges such as habitat suitability, availability of nesting sites, and regional ecological conditions must also be addressed.

Redox Imbalance and Cardiovascular Pathogenesis: Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Phytochemicals

Abstract: The intriguing role of the oxidation system in cardiovascular disease lies in its contribution to chronic and acute increases in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), driving the progression of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). ROS, produced as by-products of oxidative physiological and metabolic events, act as mediators in various signaling pathways contributing to cardiovascular pathology. The delicate equilibrium between the production of free radicals and antioxidant defense shifts in favor of the former, resulting in redox imbalance and extensive cellular damage. Among CVDs, coronary artery disease (CAD) remains as the leading cause of death globally. Understanding the significance of oxidative damage in the dysfunction of endothelial cells, atherosclerosis, and other pathogenic events and pathways is crucial for preventing and managing CVD. Consequently, it is imperative to comprehend the mechanism/s underlying the pathogenic alterations of CVD due to oxidative damage to develop effective prevention strategies. Many studies have reported bioactive phytochemical/s as potential therapies against CVDs, modulating ROS generation, controlling the CVD-related inflammatory mediators and protecting the vascular system. Therefore, this review provides an update for understanding how the phytoconstituents exhibit preventive roles in oxidative stress-related CVD, thus improving the quality of life of people. This study conducted a thorough literature search on CVD, oxidative imbalance, and phytoconstituents. The search was performed using multiple search engines and the main keywords, and only English publications until June 2023 were included. However, there is a need for more research and clinical trials to fully elucidate the efficacy and safety of these phytochemicals for managing the disease.

Accidental High Voltage Electrocution Leading To Abdominal Wall Blow Out With Omental Evisceration And Auto Amputation Of Right Upper Limb: An Unusual Presentation

Electricity is the backbone for modern industrialization, development and day to day needs. Electrical Injuries are among the most devastating of burn injuries. High voltage electrical injuries result in extensive deep tissue damage and are associated with multiple complications and a high mortality rate. The passage of electric current through the body, produces wide range of effects, varying from insignificant localised spasm, little or no contact burns, or extreme severe burns. We describe the case of a 6-year-old child who suffered high voltage electric injury leading to anterior abdominal wall blow out with omental evisceration and auto amputation of right forearm. He was initially resuscitated in emergency room followed by emergency exploratory laparotomy was done with primary repair of ileal perforation along with right arm 4 quadrant amputation. This paper also emphasizes the safety measures to be taken at work place pertaining to high voltage cable

Development of a porcine model of skin and soft-tissue infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains suitable for testing topical antimicrobial agents.

In view of the ever-increasing representation of Staphylococcus spp. strains resistant to various antibiotics, the development of invivo models for evaluation of novel antimicrobials is of utmost importance. In this article, we describe the development of a fully immunocompetent porcine model of extensive skin and soft tissue damage suitable for testing topical antimicrobial agents that matches the real clinical situation. The model was developed in three consecutive stages with protocols for each stage amended based on the results of the previous one. In the final model, 10 excisions of the skin and underlying soft tissue were created in each pig under general anesthesia, with additional incisions to the fascia performed at the base of the defects and immediately inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus suspension. One pig was not inoculated and used as the negative control. Subsequently, the bandages were changed on Days 4, 8, 11, and 15. At these time points, a filter paper imprint technique (FPIT) was made from each wound for semi-quantitative microbiological evaluation. Tissue samples from the base of the wound together with the adjacent intact tissue of three randomly selected defects of each pig were taken for microbiological, histopathological, and molecular-biological examination. The infection with the inoculated S. aureus strains was sufficient during the whole experiment as confirmed by both FPIT and from tissue samples. The dynamics of the inflammatory markers and clinical signs of infection are also described. A successfully developed porcine model is suitable for invivo testing of novel short-acting topical antimicrobial agents.

Hybrid Duplex Medium Access Control Protocol for Tsunami Early Warning Systems in Underwater Networks

Tsunamis are devastating natural phenomena that cause extensive damage to both human life and infrastructure. To mitigate such impacts, tsunami early warning systems have been deployed globally. South Korea has also initiated a project to install a tsunami warning system to monitor its surrounding seas. To ensure reliable warning decisions, various types of data must be combined, but efficiently transmitting heterogeneous data poses a challenge due to the unique characteristics of underwater acoustic communication. Therefore, this paper proposes a Hybrid Duplex Medium Access Control (HDMAC) protocol designed for a tsunami warning system, with a specific focus on heterogeneous data transmission. HDMAC efficiently handles both seismic and environmental data by utilizing hybrid duplexing, which combines frequency duplex for seismic data with time duplex for environmental data. The protocol addresses the distinct transmission requirements for each data type by optimizing channel utilization through a group Automatic Repeat request (ARQ) scheme and packet size adjustment. Theoretical analysis predicts that HDMAC can achieve a channel utilization of up to 0.91 in smaller networks and 0.64 in larger networks. HDMAC is validated through simulations, and the simulation results closely match these predictions. The simulation results demonstrate the efficiency of HDMAC in supporting real-time submarine earthquake monitoring systems.