Insect Decline-Evaluation of Potential Drivers of a Complex Phenomenon.

The decline of insects is a global concern, yet identifying the factors behind it remains challenging due to the complexity of potential drivers and underlying processes, and the lack of quantitative historical data on insect populations. This study assesses 92 potential drivers of insect decline in West Germany, where significant declines have been observed. Using data from federal statistical offices and market surveys, the study traces changes in landscape structure and agricultural practices over 33 years.

Identifying Truly HPV-Driven Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma by QuantiGene-Molecular-Profiling-Histology Assay Allows for More Precise Prognosis Prediction.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with discordant diagnostic patterns of HPV/p16 or HPV/p16 correlate with worse prognosis. This study aims to identify truly HPV-driven HNSCCs using a QuantiGene-Molecular-Profiling-Histology (QG-MPH) assay for identifying transcriptionally active HPV. Of 97 FFPE samples analyzed, 68 were valid for HPV DNA detection by PCR and quantification of HPV E7 and p16 mRNA by QG-MPH.

Mapping tree canopy thermal refugia for birds using biophysical models and LiDAR.

Accurately predicting exposure of animals to climate change requires evaluating the effects of warming on the microclimates they occupy. Birds, like many other taxa, make extensive use of cool microsites in vegetation during hot weather. Taking advantage of recent advances in modelling tree canopy microclimates, we combined LiDAR-based individual tree canopy mapping and biophysical modelling to evaluate the current and future availability of cool microsites in a subtropical African savanna landscape.

Investigation of Erosion and Deposition Due to Flows with Particles.

In this work, we employed experimental technique to study the issue of particle erosion and deposition in multiphase flows involving both particles of micro/meso- and nanoscale (sand particles and iron oxide particles). Especially, liquids with immersed nanoparticles gained a lot of interest in the recent years due to their enhanced thermal properties. At the same time, this type of fluids is still not widely used in practical and engineering applications, and one of the reasons is a risk of leading to erosion and deposition on, for instance, pipe walls.