Natural Ones Research Articles

Identifying Anthropogenic Versus Natural Submerged Prehistoric Landscapes: Two Case Studies from the Sicilian Channel

In submerged landscapes, distinguishing anthropogenic features versus natural ones is often challenging. We have developed a set of criteria to validate the identification of submerged anthropogenic remains that include examining the geological context, sea-level considerations, associated archaeological finds (including coastal survey), and documenting the broader archaeological context. Furthermore, our experience demonstrates that, while progress has been made in applying remote-sensing technologies to detect anthropogenic features on the seabed, there is no substitute for direct, visual assessment by an underwater archaeologist for verification of their anthropogenic status. We have applied these criteria to examine two published case studies detailing suspected anthropogenic stone features on the seabed in the Sicilian Channel. Our examination has led us to conclude that both localities are not anthropogenic features. The Pantelleria Vecchia Bank features represent natural outcrops on a submerged paleo-landscape that were shaped by depositional and erosional processes during transgression and regression periods. The suspected Lampedusa cultic site comprises natural features that are located on a submerged neo-landscape formed due to erosion and retreat of the coastal cliff since the mid-Holocene, when the sea level reached its present level.

Sunflower pith inspired dual-gradient cellular polyurethane architecture with amplified mechanical functions

Artificial cellular materials with various mechanical functions are attracting increasing attentions from aerospace, transportation, and industrialization. However, many artificial cellular materials, despite of the hierarchically ordered structures and even unique performance to some, still lag behind many natural ones in amplification of mechanical functions owing to the limitations in intrinsic mechanical performance and sophisticated structural design. Herein, inspired with lightweight and high strength of sunflower piths, we proposed a dual-gradient structure consisting of pore size gradient and wall thickness gradient to engineer cellular architectures with desirable mechanical performance by harnessing vat photopolymerization 3D printing of double crosslinking networks polyurethane elastomer. The double-gradient cellular polyurethane architecture displays more exceptional capability in load-bearing and energy absorption compared with non– and single gradient structures. Besides, the specific compressive strength and energy absorption of the dual-gradient cellular architectures are 4 times higher than those of traditional mechanical metamaterial structures such as octet-truss lattice, gyroid lattice, and porous structure prepared with the same material. Potential mechanisms such as dual-gradient cellular structures to obtain selective flexural deformation behaviour increasing their energy absorption and dissipation capacity are fully elucidated. As the potential paradigms, we demonstrated the mechanical functions of biomimetic mechanical cellular architectures for efficient impact protection and noise isolation, which offered a promising perspective toward developing soft metamaterials with excellent mechanical functions for potential soft machines and engineering applications.

The Biosynthesis and Applications of Protein Lipidation.

Protein lipidation dramatically affects protein structure, localization, and trafficking via remodeling protein-membrane and protein-protein interactions through hydrophobic lipid moieties. Understanding the biosynthesis of lipidated proteins, whether natural ones or mimetics, is crucial for reconstructing, validating, and studying the molecular mechanisms and biological functions of protein lipidation. In this Perspective, we first provide an overview of the natural enzymatic biosynthetic pathways of protein lipidation in mammalian cells, focusing on the enzymatic machineries and their chemical linkages. We then discuss strategies to biosynthesize protein lipidation in mammalian cells by engineering modification machineries and substrates. Additionally, we explore site-specific protein lipidation biosynthesis in vitro via enzyme-mediated ligations and in vivo primarily through genetic code expansion strategies. We also discuss the use of small molecule tools to modulate the process of protein lipidation biosynthesis. Finally, we provide concluding remarks and discuss future directions for the biosynthesis and applications of protein lipidation.

Assessment of Fine-Scale Urban Heat Health Risk and Its Potential Driving Factors Based on Local Climate Zones in Shenzhen, China

Cities are facing increased heat-related health risks (HHRs) due to the combined effects of global warming and rapid urbanization. However, few studies have focused on HHR assessment based on fine-scale information. Moreover, most studies only analyze spatial HHR patterns and do not explore the potential driving factors. In this study, we estimated the potential HHRs based on the “hazard–exposure–vulnerability” framework by using multisource data, including the modified thermal–humidity index (MTHI), population density, and land cover. Then, the variations in the HHRs among different local climate zones (LCZs) at the fine spatial scale were analyzed in detail. Finally, we compared the different contributions of the LCZs and types of land cover to the HHRs and their three components by using multiple linear regression models. The results indicate that the spatial pattern of the HHRs was different from those of the individual components, and high-hazard regions do not mean high HHRs. There were huge variations in the HHRs among the different LCZs. The built-up LCZs typically had much higher HHRs than the natural ones, with compact LCZs facing the most severe risk. LCZ 6 (open low-rise buildings) had a relatively low HHR and should be paid more attention in future urban planning. Compared to the LCZs, the land covers better explained the variations in the HHR. In contrast, the LCZs better predicted the land surface temperatures. However, both the LCZs and land covers made only slight contributions to the heat exposure and vulnerability. Furthermore, the manmade buildings and impervious surface areas contributed much more to the HHR than the natural land covers. Therefore, the arrangement of the warming LCZs and land cover types is worthy of further investigation from the perspective of HHR mitigation.

Cultural Perspectives on the Sustainable Use and Added Value of Plant-Based Food Dyes—A Case Study from Bulgaria

Raised personal health awareness and social environmental responsibility put pressure on the agri-food industry to adopt more sustainable ways of production, including the use of more natural ingredients, reducing waste, conservation and the regeneration of resources and energy. Plant-based colorants are ecologically friendly alternatives to artificial food dyes, especially with regards to the current reports on the adverse effects of some of the latter on human health. Various plants are traditionally used by many cultures to obtain vivid food coloration; however, the knowledge and means to produce them becomes less and less accessible to urbanized societies, and affordable organic alternatives are not always available on the market. An online questionnaire was performed to explore the awareness on plant-based dyes and pro-environmental attitudes of Bulgarian customers through the lens of Orthodox Easter eggs dyeing and the obtaining of plant dyes. From a total of 294 adult participants, only 5% reported a strict preference for natural dyes, while more than half of them (54%) were found to use natural and artificial ones concomitantly or switching between both. Of 45 plant taxa used for egg coloration, 12 were most frequently cited with many new additions of imported plants. Most of the used plant-based dyes were common fruits, spices, herbal infusions and even food waste like onion peels and avocado pits that were readily available from home gardens, markets and food shops. Additionally, we made a review of the scientific literature regarding their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity against food spoilage bacteria and foodborne pathogens isolated from eggs. All frequently used taxa were reported to exhibit antibacterial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and possess antioxidant activity due to the presence of various polyphenols, essential oils and other compounds. Grape and red wine, roselle and stinging nettle are the species with the most diverse antibacterial activity, effective against 15 out of the 16 bacterial species of spoilage and foodbourn microorganisms included in our focus. The antimicrobial activities, however, were found mostly tested against bacterial strains in vitro, and further studies are needed to confirm their potential antibacterial activity when applied to Easter/boiled eggs or other food products. Our findings suggest that traditional cultural practices, as a multifaceted and engaging phenomenon, have the potential to promote environmental responsibility and a healthy lifestyle using both contemporary and traditional knowledge.

Impact of self-induced anaerobiosis fermentation (SIAF) on chemical and sensorial characteristics of Coffea canephora

Coffea canephora is responsible for over 40% of global production and holds industrial relevance, especially in the production of soluble coffee. However, issues related to beverage quality still need improvement to meet the demand for high-quality coffees. This study investigated chemical and sensory changes in Coffea canephora var. conilon during Self-induced Anaerobiosis Fermentation (SIAF) versus Conventional processing, with or without starter yeasts. Hanseniaspora opuntiae and Meyerozyma caribbica populations were monitored using qPCR, while sugar and acid concentrations were measured by HPLC. Pulped coffees showed higher sugar consumption (71%–79%) than natural ones (12%–24%) during 72 h of SIAF, with lactic acid uniquely present in SIAF treatments. GC-MS identified 35 volatile compounds in roasted coffees, with esters and ketones differing between SIAF and Conventional treatments. Ethyl isovalerate and ethyl palmitate were found only in Natural SIAF inoculated with H. opuntiae, which received the highest cupping score (82 points). Consumers perceived all Natural SIAF coffees as distinct from Natural Conventional. In Natural SIAF coffee, H. opuntiae contributed to an exotic and fruity profile, while in Pulped SIAF, M. caribbica yielded a balanced and mild coffee. The SIAF method, with or without yeast addition, holds the potential for producing specialty Canephora coffee.

Downhole flow control: A key for developing enhanced geothermal systems in horizontal wells

Field evidence indicates that only a few large fractures in enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) may dominate fluid flow and lead to the development of thermal short-circuiting. This problem would worsen in heat harvesting through horizontal wells with abundant fractures (induced or natural ones). To limit flow shortcuts that may cause early thermal breakthroughs, we propose a temperature-sensitive flow management system and explore its potential benefits during the development of EGS in horizontal wells. The proposed downhole flow management system consists of sensors for real-time temperature monitoring, and flow control devices for adjusting injection distribution in the wellbore. We evaluate the performance of such systems over 50 years of operation by numerical analysis. The results indicate that, when the proposed system is utilized, the produced fluid temperature will be increased by up to 60 K for a field-scale example. Besides, the application of the proposed flow management system can increase the cumulative heat extraction by up to 48.25 % (0.69 × 1016 J) after 50 years. The heat extraction efficiency can be improved by up to 94.16 %. During the EGS operation, it is suggested to implement multi-stage fluid control, but it is not recommended to reopen the fluid injection that has been previously shut down. Finally, the flow management system can mitigate the negative impacts of geological heterogeneities or the heterogeneity in fracture hydraulic conductivities. This paper proposes a new concept of flow management to integrate horizontal wells into efficient EGSs for power generation and heat extraction in the future.

DsAMP and dsAMPGAN: Deep Learning Networks for Antimicrobial Peptides Recognition and Generation.

Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health challenge. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) effectively target microorganisms through non-specific mechanisms, limiting their ability to develop resistance. Therefore, the prediction and design of new AMPs is crucial. Recently, deep learning has spurred interest in computational approaches to peptide drug discovery. This study presents a novel deep learning framework for AMP classification, function prediction, and generation. We developed discoverAMP (dsAMP), a robust AMP predictor using CNN Attention BiLSTM and transfer learning, which outperforms existing classifiers. In addition, dsAMPGAN, a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN)-based model, generates new AMP candidates. Our results demonstrate the superior performance of dsAMP in terms of sensitivity, specificity, Matthew correlation coefficient, accuracy, precision, F1 score, and area under the ROC curve, achieving >95% classification accuracy with transfer learning on a small dataset. Furthermore, dsAMPGAN successfully synthesizes AMPs similar to natural ones, as confirmed by comparisons of physical and chemical properties. This model serves as a reliable tool for the identification of novel AMPs in clinical settings and supports the development of AMPs to effectively combat antibiotic resistance.

Монетарна ентропія в умовах економічної глобалізації

Introduction. Changes occurring in the nature of money in the context of globalization have long been of interest to economists. Instead, the events of recent years have shown that such changes can also be caused by profound transformations that are natural ones and subject to general physical laws. Problem Statement. Establishing the dependence of the further development of money as an economic category on the action of the second law of thermodynamics. The purpose is the analysis of scientific ideas at the junction of economics and physics (ecophysics) and their spread to the monetary sphere ,in particular considering the manifestation of monetary entropy in the process of the international monetary system. Methods. General scientific and special methods are used: analysis, synthesis, description, comparison, theoretical generalization and abstract-logical analyses. Results. This publication introduces the concept of monetary entropy as a state of chaoticization of the essence of money (entropy of money) and the monetary system as a whole. The development of monetary entropy is considered as the result of cyclical development according to the Hegelian model “thesis-antithesis-synthesis”, which allows to avoid complete chaosization of the monetary sphere due to its transition to a new level of the spiral of development. The current state of the development of money as an economic category and the international monetary system as a whole, caused by the impact of the globalization process on them, proves that they are at the stage of another transition from entropy to negentropy, which can lead to the emergence of Global Money. Conclusions. Turning to the issue of predicting the future of money, it should be noted that there is an opinion that soon money will simply become a relic of the past and disappear altogether, leaving the probable technological singularity as one of its consequences, the very liquidation (more precisely, the senselessness of existence ) of money as an economic category. One of the possibilities of the technological singularity is the emergence of a post-scarcity society in which there will be a surplus of resources and the needs of every member of society will be fully satisfied (a variant of capitalist communism, when even an unconditional basic income will appear to be an unacceptable minimum for satisfying needs, because the principle from each according to his abilities to each according to his needs will be implemented. However, the change will not happen overnight, so there will most likely be a transition period during which humanity will still use money and the concept of money will evolve rather than disappear completely.

Impact of dicarboxystilbene impurities on the properties of swift heavy ion latent tracks in PET films

We present a new hypothesis and supporting experimental evidence about the essential role played by small impurities of dicarboxystilbene in the process of UV treatment of PET films irradiated with swift heavy ions (SHI). This treatment both forms highly selective membranes with permeability values comparable to natural ones (the track-UV technique) and sharply accelerates the etching of latent tracks in membrane production (the track-etching technique). We hypothesize (1) that these high permeability value is due to the presence of a molecular motor of an Archimedes screw type in the central part of the latent track formed by photoinduced trans-cis isomerization of dicarboxystilbene molecules that are anchored in helical conformations in the latent track; and (2) that the acceleration of etching rates is due to the preferential accumulation of phenanthrene-type molecules in the central part of the latent track due to the existence of a cyclization channel for photoexcited molecules of cis-dicarboxystilbene. In the presence of alkali solution, phenanthrene molecules release electrons which behave as strong anions in aqueous solution, catalyzing alkaline hydrolysis of PET molecules in the central part of the track. We present experimental observations of photoinduced changes in transmission light intensity after track-UV light treatment of both pristine and SHI irradiated PET films that confirm the presence of trans-cis isomerization of dicarboxystilbene molecules and show their contribution to the formation of new helical conformations in SHI irradiated PET films during the light treatment.

Detection of damage caused by Nezara viridula on soybean using novel imaging approaches based on computed tomography and image color analysis.

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is an important leguminous plant, in which pests trigger significant damage every year. Important members of this community are insects with piercing-sucking mouthpart, especially the southern green stinkbug, Nezara viridula L.. This insect with its extraoral digestion causes visible alterations (morphological and color changes) in the seeds. We aimed to obtain precise information about the extent and nature of damage in soybeans caused by N. viridula using nondestructive imaging methods. Two infestation conditions were applied: one with controlled numbers of pests (six insects/15 pods) and another with naturally occurring pests (samples collected from the apical part of the plant and samples from whole plants). An intact control group was also included, resulting in four treatment groups. Seed samples were analyzed by computed tomography (CT) and image color analysis under laboratory conditions. According to our CT findings, the damage caused by N. viridula changed the radiodensity, volume, and shape (Solidity) of the soybean seeds during the pod-filling and maturing period. Radiodensity was significantly reduced in all three damaged categories compared to the intact sample; the mean radiodensity reduction range was 49-412 HU. The seed volume also decreased significantly (25%-80% decrease), with a threefold reduction for samples exposed to regulated damage compared to natural ones. The samples exposed to natural damage showed significant but minor reduction in solidity, while samples exposed to regulated damage showed a prominent decrease (~12%). Image color analysis showed that the damaged samples were well distinguishable, and the differences were statistically verifiable. The achieved data derived from our external and internal imaging approaches contribute to a better understanding of the internal chemical processes, and CT analysis helps to understand the alteration trends of the hidden structure of seeds caused by a pest. Our results can contribute to the development of a practically applicable system based on image analysis, which can identify lots damaged by insects.

Dual-Path Large Kernel Learning and Its Applications in Single-Image Super-Resolution.

To enhance the performance of super-resolution models, neural networks frequently employ module stacking. However, this approach inevitably results in an excessive proliferation of parameter counts and information redundancy, ultimately constraining the deployment of these models on mobile devices. To surmount this limitation, this study introduces the application of Dual-path Large Kernel Learning (DLKL) to the task of image super-resolution. Within the DLKL framework, we harness a multiscale large kernel decomposition technique to efficiently establish long-range dependencies among pixels. This network not only maintains excellent performance but also significantly mitigates the parameter burden, achieving an optimal balance between network performance and efficiency. When compared with other prevalent algorithms, DLKL exhibits remarkable proficiency in generating images with sharper textures and structures that are more akin to natural ones. It is particularly noteworthy that on the challenging texture dataset Urban100, the network proposed in this study achieved a significant improvement in Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) for the ×4 upscaling task, with an increase of 0.32 dB and 0.19 dB compared with the state-of-the-art HAFRN and MICU networks, respectively. This remarkable result not only validates the effectiveness of the present model in complex image super-resolution tasks but also highlights its superior performance and unique advantages in the field.

Metastable Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation and Aging Lead to Strong Processing Path Dependence in Mini‐Spidroin Solutions

AbstractRecombinant silk proteins provide a route toward sustainable and biocompatible materials. For making such materials, the assembly process from dilute protein into a functional material is central. The assembly mechanism in engineered materials is by necessity different from the natural ones—this poses challenges but also opens opportunities for scaling up and for developing novel properties. The phase behavior of a mini‐spidroin, NT‐2Rep‐CT is studied, which is a widely studied variant of recombinant silk. NT‐2Rep‐CT can be triggered to assemble by lowering the pH, but even at high pH—considered as storage conditions—it can be in various states, such as forming condensates, clusters, gels, and soluble protein. It is shown how its assembly phases evolve through both metastable and dynamically arrested states. The observed behavior of silk protein solutions is highly complex, and elements thereof from phase diagrams associated with polymers, colloidal systems, and globular proteins are found. Based on the characterization of cluster formation and structural intermediates, a minimalist phase diagram is proposed for NT‐2Rep‐CT and argues that the understanding and insight into silk assembly via its phase behavior, and especially the arrested states, is central for designing recombinant silk proteins and their processing for materials applications.

Some Factors Influencing Legal Continuity in the Age of Enlightenment

In this article, certain factors that influenced legal continuity during the Age of Enlightenment are discussed. The major processes of the period are analyzed, and the importance of legal traditions as the foundation of legal continuity is highlighted. A brief overview of the key approaches to understanding legal traditions is given. Particular attention is paid to the regional divergences of the Age of Enlightenment, with a focus on its specifics in England and later Great Britain, the German and Italian states, France, Russia, and the USA. It was revealed that all factors can be divided into two groups. The first group includes general conditions, circumstances, and prerequisites, which can be further classified into natural and social ones. Natural factors are largely unaffected by the landscape of the period, while social factors are closely tied to society. The factors pertaining to the Age of Enlightenment are part of the latter group. They are of two types. The first type is not actually related to the legal reality of the period. The second type reflects the Enlightenment political and legal doctrines. Conclusions are drawn about the direct and indirect impacts of these factors on the historical processes. It is also demonstrated that the factors of legal continuity formed a unique combination in each studied society, with their influence apparent even after the Age of Enlightenment.

Enzyme Inhibitors as Multifaceted Tools in Medicine and Agriculture.

Enzymes are molecules that play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and balance in all living organisms by catalyzing metabolic and cellular processes. If an enzyme's mechanism of action is inhibited, the progression of certain diseases can be slowed or halted, making enzymes a key therapeutic target. Therefore, identifying or developing enzyme inhibitors is essential for treating significant diseases and ensuring plant defense against pathogens. This review aims to compile information on various types of enzyme inhibitors, particularly those that are well studied and beneficial in both human and plant contexts, by analyzing their mechanisms of action and the resulting benefits. Specifically, this review focuses on three different types of enzyme inhibitors that are most studied, recognized, and cited, each with distinct areas of action and potential benefits. For instance, serine enzyme inhibitors in plants help defend against pathogens, while the other two classes-alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors-have significant effects on human health. Furthermore, this review is also intended to assist other researchers by providing valuable insights into the biological effects of specific natural or synthetic inhibitors. Based on the current understanding of these enzyme inhibitors, which are among the most extensively studied in the scientific community, future research could explore their use in additional applications or the development of synthetic inhibitors derived from natural ones. Such inhibitors could aid in defending against pathogenic organisms, preventing the onset of diseases in humans, or even slowing the growth of certain pathogenic microorganisms. Notably, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors have shown promising results in potentially replacing antibiotics, thereby addressing the growing issue of antibiotic resistance.

Morita Therapy: Potential Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a cluster-B personality disorder known for its complexity and difficulty to cure, and was once considered untreatable. At present, the mainstream treatment is represented by dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), but there are problems such as the shortage of therapists and the high cost of training. In order to increase the therapeutic possibility of BPD, it is necessary to find a new treatment method. Morita Therapy originated in Japan and is based on eastern philosophy and Buddhism, emphasizing the oneness of man and nature. Due to the lack of clinical data on the direct application of Morita therapy to BPD and the lack of related studies, a definite conclusion cannot be drawn. But the concept and core features of Morita therapy are compatible with the core symptoms of BPD, and the potential efficacy of Morita therapy in the treatment of BPD and the potential as adjuvant therapy are possible. This study explores the potential efficacy of Morita therapy on BPD, and provides a new direction and idea for the research and practice of BPD psychotherapy.

Analysis of the Management of Protected Areas in Galapagos: 60 Years after Its Declaration as a National Park

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most emblematic protected areas on the planet and also one of the most studied. Their main economic activity is tourism, which has grown rapidly in recent years. The increase in tourists is associated with the increase in population and the introduction of invasive species, which puts conservation at risk. This makes adequate management even more necessary and relevant on an international scale since the economy of Galapagos depends on the good state of conservation of its ecosystems and species. Numerous studies have shown that social factors, rather than physical–natural ones, determine the success or failure of a marine protected area (MPA), so they must be urgently incorporated into all phases of MPA management. In this study, we analyzed the management of the protected areas of Galapagos, including the National Park and the Marine Reserve, with the purpose of highlighting their weaknesses and strengths. The methodology used presents five prescribed scenarios in which priority is given to one or other factors, each of which has an impact on the biophysical and socio-economic systems that are influenced by the MPA. These scenarios were called proactive, interactive, centralized, learning, and formal management. Data were obtained through a comprehensive literature review and primary data collection methods, including in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and DPNG managers, as well as direct observations. Interviewees covered the main relevant sectors in the archipelago (fishing, tourism, and conservation). The results show that the archipelago’s protected areas follow a proactive management model with a continuous feedback loop. This feedback is a key element in any adaptive management process, which also allows practitioners to anticipate future problems. Both public participation and strategic planning are essential.

Effect of Alkylresorcinols Isolated from Wheat Bran on the Oxidative Stability of Minced-Meat Models as Related to Storage.

Due to their antioxidant activity, alkylresorcinols (ARs) extracted from by-products could represent promising natural and innovative antioxidants for the food industry. This study tested the ability of ARs isolated from wheat bran to increase the shelf-life of minced-meat models stored at 4 °C for 9 days. Fifteen alk(en)ylresorcinols (C17-C25) were recognized by GC/MS, showing good radical-scavenging (200.70 ± 1.33 μmolTE/g extract) and metal-chelating (1.38 ± 0.30 mgEDTAE/g extract) activities. Two ARs concentrations (0.01% and 0.02%) were compared to sodium ascorbate (0.01% and 0.10%) on color (CIELAB values L*, a*, b*, chroma, and hue) and oxidative stability (lipid hydroperoxides, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)) of minced-beef samples. ARs-treated samples were oxidatively more stable than those formulated with sodium ascorbate and the negative control, with significantly lower contents of hydroperoxides and VOCs (hexanal, 1-hexanol, and 1-octen-3-ol) throughout the experiment (p < 0.001). However, no effect on color stability was observed (p > 0.05). Since 0.01% of ARs was equally or more effective than 0.10% sodium ascorbate, those results carry important implications for the food industry, which could reduce antioxidant amounts by ten times and replace synthetic antioxidants with natural ones.

Generative AI in the Advancement of Viral Therapeutics for Predicting and Targeting Immune-Evasive SARS-CoV-2 Mutations.

The emergence of immune-evasive mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is consistently challenging existing vaccines and therapies, making precise prediction of their escape potential a critical imperative. Artificial Intelligence(AI) holds great promise for deciphering the intricate language of protein. Here, we employed a Generative Adversarial Network to decipher the hidden escape pathways within the spike protein by generating spikes that closely resemble natural ones. Through comprehensive analysis, we demonstrated that generated sequences capture natural escape characteristics. Moreover, incorporating these sequences into an AI-based escape prediction model significantly enhanced its performance, achieving a 7% increase in detecting natural escape mutations on the experimentally validated Greaney dataset. Similar improvements were observed on other datasets, demonstrating the model's generalizability. Precisely predicting immune-evasive spikes not only enables the design of strategically targeted therapies but also has the potential to expedite future viral therapeutics. This breakthrough carries profound implications for shaping a more resilient future against viral threats.

Effects of habitat biotic features on hymenopteran diversity in East Africa

PurposeOriginally, the coastal region of East Africa was largely covered with coastal forest. With the human settlement, the majority of these forests have been transformed into agricultural land for subsistence farming. Today, only small and geographically isolated forest remnants exist and form a mosaic of different habitat types, including natural, semi-natural and anthropogenic ones. The forest remnants may still represent valuable habitats for typical forest plant and animal species.MethodsIn this study, we surveyed hymenopteran diversity and community composition in different habitat types in southern Kenya. Hereby we considered a small remnant of East African coastal forest, adjoining orchards, shrublands, tree plantations, agricultural fields, and settlements. Hymenoptera represent a large variety of taxa and provide relevant ecosystem services such as pollination to the local people. Hymenoptera were collected with coloured pan traps, identified to family or genus level, and sorted to morphospecies. Habitat parameters such as dead wood, leaf litter, vegetation structure, and the availability of flowers has been assessed for each study site.ResultsIn total, we found 419 Hymenoptera individuals of 153 morphospecies. The different habitat types showed distinct species communities of Hymenoptera. Increasing shrub layer and increasing herb cover had a negative effect on hymenopteran species richness and abundance. Flowers, trees, leave litter, and deadwood showed no significant effect on hymenopteran diversity.ConclusionOur results underline that small-scale habitat diversity lead to high overall diversity of Hymenoptera. Implications for insect conservation: The coastal forest remnant still holds a unique hymenopteran community with 20 Hymenoptera species exclusively found in this habitat type. It is thus of very high conservation value.