bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shell Constraints on Evolutionary Body Size–Limb Size Allometry Can Explain Morphological Conservatism in the Turtle Body Plan
Authors: Hermanson Guilherme , Evers Serjoscha W.
Published: November 2024

Turtles are a small clade of vertebrates despite having existed since the Late Triassic. Turtles have a conservative body plan relative to other amniotes, characterized by the presence of a shell and quadrupedality. This morphology is even retained in strong ecological specialists, such as sea turtles, which are secondarily adapted to marine locomotion by strong allometric scaling in their hands. It is possible that the body plan of turtles is strongly influenced by the presence of the shell, acting as a constraint to achieving greater diversity of body forms. Here, we explore the evolutionary allometric relationships of fore‐ and hindlimb stylopodia (i.e., humerus and femur) with one another as well as their relationship with shell size (carapace length) to assess evidence of constraint. All turtles, including Triassic shelled stem turtles, have near‐isometric relationships that do not vary strongly between clades, and evolve at slow evolutionary rates. This indeed indicates that body proportions of turtles are constrained to a narrow range of possibilities. Minor allometric deviations are seen in highly aquatic sea turtles and softshell turtles, which modified their shells by bone losses. Our allometric regressions allow accurate body size estimations for fossils. Several independent sea turtle lineages converged on maximum sizes of 2.2 m of shell length, which may be a biological maximum for the group.
Full life cycle assessment of insect biomass allows estimation of bioflows across water, air, and land
Authors: Smith Chelsea R. , Stepanian Phillip M. , Golladay Stephen W. , Tank Jennifer L. , Chaloner Dominic T. , Entrekin Sally A.
Published: November 2024

As global environmental change continues, animals face uncertain habitat availability and quality that influences life cycle phenology and population dynamics. For decades, the population abundance and emergence patterns of burrowing mayflies have been used as a sentinel for water quality changes in large freshwater systems around the world. Despite reduced point source pollutants, evidence is mounting that the interactions among habitat loss, contaminants, and changing climate could be causing declines in mayfly production and shifts in emergence timing. We combined radar observations with traditional field measures to identify changes in mayfly populations from nymph to adult. We studied Hexagenia sp. secondary production in a large reservoir, Lake Seminole, which has contrasting water sources and land use on each arm that could contribute to differences in emergence patterns. We predicted that mayfly secondary production would be higher, and emergence would be earlier in the Chattahoochee arm versus the Flint arm because of differences in available nutrients and temperature. Benthic declines in abundance and biomass followed radar observations of emergence. Mean annual water temperature was similar, with the Flint arm having less seasonal variation. Mayfly growth was similar across the lake, but production was higher in the upper Flint arm, perhaps because of temperature stability, higher nutrient concentrations, and more lotic conditions. The natural abundance of nitrogen‐stable isotopes in mayflies showed distinct patterns between the arms and from nymph to adult. Linking benthic sampling with radar observations verified our capability to track mayfly biomass across the landscape and begin to calibrate previous measures of production with radar‐derived abundance. Coupling radar observations with stable isotope and tissue nutrient measurements allowed us to further quantify the subsidies moving from aquatic to terrestrial ecosystems, setting the framework to examine both historic and future population changes and mayfly contributions to cross‐ecosystem subsidies.
Interaction of Perfluorinated Group 13 Lewis Acids with Diatomic Halogens and Interhalogens: Computational and Experimental Study
Authors: Pomogaeva Anna V. , Lisovenko Anna S. , Kazakov Igor V. , Zavgorodnii Artem S. , Glukhovich Ekaterina V. , Eliseev Alexey D. , Afanasev Alexey Y. , Sharapova Dinara A. , Kulikova Yana I. , Timoshkin Alexey Y.
Published: November 2024

Interaction of perfluorinated group 13 element Lewis acids E(C6F5)3 (E=B, Al, Ga, In) and Al{OC(CF3)3}3 with diatomic halogens and interhalogens was studied computationally. Boron‐containing derivative is predicted to form weak complexes with halogens and to be thermodynamically stable with respect to iodination, while its heavier derivatives form stronger complexes that are unstable with respect to E−C bond oxidation. The reactivity of E(C6F5)3 with iodine and iodine monochloride and Al{OCR3}3 (R=CF3, C6F5) with iodine was explored experimentally. Experimental data confirm that B(C6F5)3 does not react with ICl at room temperature and with molecular iodine in temperature range 233–350 K. Heavier group 13 element derivatives E(C6F5)3 upon reaction with I2 and ICl undergo oxidation processes with C6F5I evolution. Both Al{OC(CF3)3}3*C6H5F and Al{OC(C6F5)3}3 do not form stable complexes with molecular iodine.
Facile Synthesis of Versatile and Air‐stable Cuprous Synthons of Type [Cu(NHC)(OC(H)(CF3)2)] (NHC=N‐Heterocyclic Carbene)
Authors: Ostrowska Sylwia , Carì Gianluca , Czapik Agnieszka , Kwit Marcin , Cazin Catherine S. J. , Nolan Steven P.
Published: November 2024

A new family of Cu‐NHC complexes having general formula [Cu(NHC)(OC(H)(CF3)2)] (NHC=N‐Heterocyclic Carbene; OC(H)(CF3)2=1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP)) is reported. The operational simple protocol of the weak base route allows the formation of a series of new fluorinated cuprous synthons, opening the doors to new possible synthetic and catalytic pathways, as demonstrated by the hexafluoroisopropoxylation of 9‐chloroacridine using [Cu(IPr)(OC(H)(CF3)2)] (2).
The effectiveness of cryostimulation exposure on sleep and recovery in male athletes: Timing considerations
Authors: Arc‐Chagnaud Coralie , Dugué Benoit , Bouzigon Romain , Pla Robin , Bosquet Laurent ,   D‐day Consortium, Dupuy Olivier
Published: November 2024

The objectives of the study were (i) to evaluate the effects of whole‐body cryostimulation (WBC) after training as an effective tool to improve sleep and recovery and (ii) to determine which exposure schedule for WBC (immediately after training vs. 1h before bedtime) is the most appropriate to improve sleep and recovery. Twenty‐two well‐trained male athletes or triathletes (23.1 ± 3.5‐years) were recruited in this controlled crossover protocol. Each participant completed the three experimental sessions, each composed of a running training session and one night of sleep analysis. Depending on the experimental condition, subjects were exposed—or not (CONT)—to WBC immediately after training (CRYO 7 p.m.) or 1h before going to bed (CRYO 10 p.m.). All participants were randomly assigned to each condition, spaced seven days apart. Sleep was monitored via actimetry, cerebral activity recordings, heart rate variability, body core temperature, and perceptual measurements. WBC after training did not modify subjective or objective sleep parameters compared to the control condition. However, WBC significantly improved cardiac parasympathetic activity. More specifically, it was more activated during the night following the CRYO 10 p.m. condition than in the other experimental conditions. Core body temperature (CBT) 1h after bedtime was the lowest in the CRYO 10 p.m. condition. This study confirmed the effectiveness of WBC as a recovery technique after intense evening training. We suggest that WBC may exhibit the most significant benefit on recovery if the session is performed 1h before bedtime, acting on subsequent parasympathetic activation and CBT drop.
Clinical efficacy of low‐dose Perampanel correlates with neurophysiological changes in familial adult myoclonus epilepsy 2
Authors: Coppola Antonietta , Cuccurullo Claudia , Senerchia Gianmaria , Rubino Marica , Veneziano Liana , Brancati Francesco , Baratto Luigi , Iuzzolino Valentina Virginia , Bilo Leonilda , Striano Pasquale , Dubbioso Raffaele
Published: November 2024

Familial adult myoclonus epilepsy (FAME) management relies on antiseizure medications (ASMs), which inadequately address myoclonus and cortical tremor. This study evaluates Perampanel (PER), an AMPA‐receptor antagonist, for treating FAME symptoms. Fifteen FAME2 patients participated in an observational prospective study. They received up to 6 mg daily of PER and underwent Unified‐Myoclonus‐Rating‐Scale (UMRS) before and after treatment. Neurophysiological evaluations, including somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), assessed PER's impact on cortical glutamatergic excitatory and GABAergic inhibitory circuits. PER treatment significantly reduced UMRS total scores (p = 0.001) and action‐myoclonus subscores (p = 0.002), irrespective of disease duration, age at onset, or testing time (p >0.05). Patients with more severe baseline myoclonus demonstrated significant improvements. Neurophysiological assessments revealed a PER‐induced decrease in sensorimotor hyperexcitability, characterized by diminished N33 amplitudes, attenuated glutamatergic facilitation, and enhanced GABAergic inhibition in the motor cortex. In conclusion, low‐dose PER is well tolerated and effective in alleviating myoclonus in FAME2 patients, supported by its modulatory effects on glutamatergic and GABAergic neuronal circuits.

Plain Language Summary: This study investigated the effects of low‐dose perampanel in individuals with Familial Adult Myoclonus Epilepsy2 (FAME2), a hereditary condition characterized by epilepsy and tremors. Perampanel, an antiepileptic drug, blocks AMPA receptors in the brain, reducing excessive neural activity that causes seizures and abnormal movements. The results showed significant symptom improvement, which correlated with changes in brain activity as measured by neurophysiological tests. This study suggests that perampanel helps regulate abnormal brain signals and may help managing FAME2 symptoms.
Sim‐Net: Simulation Net for Solving Seepage Equation Under Unsteady Boundary
Authors: Li Daolun , Chen Enyuan , Xu Yantao , Zha Wenshu , Shen Luhang , Chen Dongsheng
Published: November 2024

The seepage equation plays a crucial role in fields such as groundwater management, petroleum engineering, and civil engineering. Currently, physical‐informed neural networks (PINNs) have become an effective tool for solving seepage equations. However, practical applications often involve variable flow rates, which pose significant challenges for using neural networks to find solutions. Inspired by Deep Operator Network (DeepONet), this paper proposes a new model named Simulation Net (Sim‐net) to deal with unsteady sources or sinks problems. Sim‐net is designed to simulate and solve seepage equations without the need for retraining. This model integrates potential spatial and temporal features based on spatial pressure distribution and well bottom–hole pressure, respectively, which serve as additional signposts to guide neural networks in approximating seepage equations. Sim‐net exhibits transfer learning capabilities, enabling it to handle variable flow rate problems without retraining for new flow conditions. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the trained model can directly solve seepage equations without the need for retraining, indicating its superior applicability compared to existing PINNs‐based methods. Additionally, in comparison to the DeepONet, Sim‐net achieves higher accuracy.
Accelerated weathering of construction‐grade limestone for CO2 absorption
Authors: Damu Daniel Nyuin Alfred , Lee Alvin Guo Jian , Chai Slyvester Yew Wang , Ngu Lock Hei
Published: November 2024

Accelerated weathering of limestone (AWL) process efficiently captures CO2 from point source emissions. However, despite achieving an outstanding capture efficiency of 73.51 %, lab‐grade (LG) limestone with 99.90 % CaCO3 as an absorbent is costly ($2757.70/t), making commercialization of AWL impractical. This work delves into the viability of utilizing construction‐grade (CG) limestone (93.26% purity) for the AWL process facilitated by potable water in an absorption tower for post‐combustion capture. The result shows that CG limestone achieves comparable CO2 capture efficiency of 8.0–74.68% and bicarbonate (Ca(HCO3)2) concentration of 0.63–3.10 mM compared with LG limestone. However, LG limestone has 0.29 mol CO2/mol CaCO3 higher CO2 absorption capacity and a faster absorption rate than CG limestone, indicating a somewhat better CO2 capture performance. Nevertheless, CG limestone offered a more cost‐effective alternative, with a $2735.24 lower cost per ton of CaCO3 and a $2651.63 per ton CO2 lower CO2 capturing cost at the highest carbon capture efficiency (HCCE) condition compared to LG limestone. The kinetic analysis shows that the forward reactions in the AWL process are significantly faster at elevated CO2 concentration, with the mass transfer coefficient affirming that CO2 dissolves faster than CaCO3, in line with prior research. Thus, this work validates that CG limestone‐based AWL achieves comparable CO2 capture performance to that of LG limestone, offering a cost‐efficient alternative. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative assessment of CO2 leakage risk in geologic carbon storage management
Authors: Jing Meng , Li Qi , Liu Guizhen , Xue Quan
Published: November 2024

Large‐scale geological storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) is indispensable for mitigating climate change but faces significant challenges, especially in the accurate quantitative assessment of leakage risks to ensure long‐term security. Given these circumstances, this paper proposes an innovative approach for quantitatively assessing CO2 leakage risk to address the previous limitations of limited accuracy and insufficient data. We construct a fault tree and transform it into a Bayesian network–directed acyclic graph, and then use judgment sets along with fuzzy set theory to obtain prior probabilities of root nodes. The feature, event, and process method was utilized to identify key components and subsequently determine the conditional probability table (CPT) of the leaf node. The subjective experience assessments from experts are defuzzified to obtain the CPTs of intermediate nodes. The obtained basic probability parameters are input into the directed acyclic graph to complete the model construction. After calculating the leakage probability using this model, it is combined with the severity of impacts to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. Furthermore, critical CO2 risk sources can be determined through posterior probability calculations when intermediate nodes are designated as deterministic risk events. The gradual implementation process of the proposed model is demonstrated via a typical case study. The results indicate an overall CO2 leakage probability of 29%, with probabilities of leakage along faults/fractures, caprock, and well identified as 32%, 28%, and 19%, respectively. The project is categorized as a medium‐low risk level. When leakage is confirmed, tectonic movement, thickness, and delamination at interface connections/the presence of cracks are the critical risk sources, and measures to mitigate key risks are outlined. The identified key risk factors conform to empirical evidence and previous research, validating the accuracy of the model. This study is instrumental in CO2 geological storage risk assessment and scalable development program design. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hearing Function Moderates Age‐Related Differences in Brain Morphometry in the HCP Aging Cohort
Authors: Kirschen Robert M. , Leaver Amber M.
Published: November 2024

There are well‐established relationships between aging and neurodegenerative changes, and between aging and hearing loss. The goal of this study was to determine how structural brain aging is influenced by hearing loss. Human Connectome Project Aging data were analyzed, including T1‐weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Words in noise (WIN) thresholds (n = 623). Freesurfer extracted gray and white matter volume, and cortical thickness, area, and curvature. Linear regression models targeted (1) interactions between age and WIN threshold and (2) correlations with WIN threshold adjusted for age, both corrected for false discovery rate (pFDR < 0.05). WIN threshold moderated age‐related increase in volume in bilateral inferior lateral ventricles, with a higher threshold associated with increased age‐related ventricle expansion. Age‐related differences in the occipital cortex also increased with higher WIN thresholds. When controlling for age, high WIN threshold was correlated with reduced cortical thickness in Heschl's gyrus, calcarine sulcus, and other sensory regions, and reduced temporal lobe white matter. Older volunteers with poorer hearing and cognitive scores had the lowest volume in left parahippocampal white matter. These results suggest that better hearing is associated with reduced age‐related differences in medial temporal lobe, while better hearing at any age is associated with greater cortical tissue in auditory and other sensory regions. Future longitudinal studies are needed to assess the causal nature of these relationships, but these results indicate interventions that preserve or protect hearing function may combat some neurodegenerative changes in aging.
Rheological Analysis of Thermally Radiative Hyperbolic Tangent Fluid Flow in a Curved Channel Driven by Metachronal Ciliary Waves
Authors: Abbas Z. , Junjua Moin‐ud‐Din , Arslan M. S. , Khaliq S. , Rafiq M. Y.
Published: November 2024

The study and application of cilia flow have implications across a wide range of disciplines, from medicine and biology to engineering and robotics, contributing to advancements in healthcare, biotechnology, and fluid dynamics research. Motivated by these applications, a numerical simulation is performed to investigate the mixed convective cilia flow of MHD hyperbolic tangent fluid in a curved channel. The analysis is performed in the presence of viscous dissipation. The curvilinear coordinates are used due to the curved nature of flow geometry in the derivation of flow equations. The fluid motion arises from the metachronal waves generated by the cilia. The constitutive equations are simplified by the hypothesis of the lubrication approximation and then solved numerically using the Keller Box method. Comprehensive investigation of velocity, temperature, pumping phenomena, streamlines, skin friction, and Nusselt number are graphed and analyzed. The results obtained from the analysis convey that the fluid velocity decreases with an increase in the magnetic field and increases with a rise in the Weissenberg number. The Nusselt number increases with the Brinkman number while the reverse observations are predicted for curvature parameter. Streamlines show fluid movement driven by cilia oscillations. Furthermore, the skin friction and Nusselt number at the channel walls are determined for a variety of critical parameter assessments. Potential applications of the current work include mucus clearance from the respiratory tract, microfluidics, oesophageal transport, biofluid mechanisms, and other fields of physiology.
3D MHD Natural Convective Flow Past a Uniformly Moving Porous Vertical Plate With Variable Sinusoidal Suction in the Slip Flow Regime
Authors: Ahmed Nazibuddin , Khanam Masuma
Published: November 2024

The current study aims to precisely solve the problem of three‐dimensional (3D) magnetohydrodynamics (MHDs) natural convective flow of a viscous, incompressible, electrically conducting, nongray, optically thick fluid past a uniformly moving porous vertical plate with variable sinusoidal suction in the slip flow regime, considering thermal diffusion, diffusion‐thermo, and thermal radiation. The incorporation of variable sinusoidal suction with variable amplitude in a slip flow regime in 3D MHD natural convective flow across a uniformly moving porous vertical plate is the novelty of the present work. Into the fluid region, a uniform transverse magnetic field is applied. Using Rosseland approximation, the flux appearing in the energy equation can be described. At the plate, solutal, thermal, and momentum slip are taken into account. The equations governing the flow model are solved using the asymptotic series expansion method. Since sinusoidal suction creates a 3D flow, the flow is 3D. Through figures and tables, we discuss the effects of different parameters on flow and transport characteristics. The magnetic body force, or Lorentz force, is produced when a magnetic field and fluid velocity interact. Because of this force's resistance to the flow, the fluid's velocity drops. A greater amount of mass diffusivity results in an increase in the concentration profile. An increase in thermal diffusivity raises the temperature field. The rate of heat transmission is reduced by higher thermal diffusivity. The mass transfer accelerates as fluid viscosity rises because the fluid's viscosity increases along with the Schmidt number. Skin friction reduces by 0.5% when the Soret number rises by one unit. The rate of mass transfer is enhanced with a growing Reynolds number or low viscosity.
Parameterizing Haverkamp Model From the Steady‐State of Numerically Generated Infiltration: Influence of Algorithms for Steady‐State Selection
Authors: Autovino Dario , Bagarello Vincenzo , Iovino Massimo , Lassabatere Laurent , Yilmaz Deniz
Published: November 2024

BEST (Beerkan Estimation of Soil Transfer parameters) methods of soil hydraulic characterisation are widely applied for estimating sorptivity, S, and saturated hydraulic conductivity, Ks. Calculating these properties requires choosing the β and γ parameters of the Haverkamp infiltration model. These parameters can be obtained from numerically simulated three‐dimensional (3D) infiltration runs reaching steady‐state. This investigation tested dependence of the estimated β and γ parameters on the algorithm for steady‐state selection using simulated 3D cumulative infiltrations for different soils and initial conditions. Two algorithms used the original simulation outputs and included using (i) a threshold defining steadiness (T‐algorithm) and (ii) the last four data points, yielding a reference value of steady‐state infiltration rate (R‐algorithm). A third algorithm, similar to the R‐algorithm, was applied to previously re‐sampled infiltration data at fixed time intervals (RR‐algorithm). The intercept, bs, of the straight line fitted to the data describing steady‐state on the cumulative infiltration plot depended on the applied algorithm more than the slope of this line. Consequently, β varied with the applied algorithm more than γ. The RR‐algorithm, yielding 0.62 ≤ β ≤ 1.99 and 0.74 ≤ γ ≤ 0.98, was preferred since it mediated between advantages and disadvantages of T‐ and R‐algorithms. The influence of the choice of proper values for β and γ on the estimates of S and Ks was evaluated using BEST. Using the default values of β (0.6) and γ (0.75) yielded accurate estimates of S but not of Ks. Soil dependent β and γ values should be used in this case. A check of the reliability of the estimates of bs can be made by a sequential analysis of the cumulative infiltration data. Future developments include considering sources differing in size and establishing if the suggested β and γ values apply in general to the available BEST algorithms.
Segmentation and Classification of Breast Masses From the Whole Mammography Images Using Transfer Learning and BI‐RADS Characteristics
Authors: Oudjer Hayette , Cherfa Assia , Cherfa Yazid , Belkhamsa Noureddine
Published: November 2024

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide, highlighting the critical need for its accurate detection and early diagnosis. In this context, the segmentation of breast masses (the most common symptom of breast cancer) plays a crucial role in analyzing mammographic images. In addition, in image processing, the analysis of mammographic images is very common, but certain combinations of mathematical tools have never been exploited. We propose a computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) system designed with different and new algorithm combinations for the segmentation and classification of breast masses based on the Breast Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (BI‐RADS) lexicon. The image is initially divided into superpixels using the simple linear iterative clustering (SLIC) algorithm. Fine‐tuning of ResNet50, EfficientNetB2, MobileNetV2, and InceptionV3 models is employed to extract features from superpixels. The classification of each superpixel as background or breast mass is performed by feeding the extracted features into a support vector machine (SVM) classifier, resulting in an accurate primary segmentation for breast masses, refined by the GrabCut algorithm with automated initialization. Finally, we extract contour, texture, and shape parameters from the segmented regions for the classification of masses into BI‐Rads 2, 3, 4, and 5 using the gradient boost (GB) classifier while also examining the impact of the surrounding tissue. The proposed method was evaluated on the INBreast database, achieving a Dice score of 87.65% and a sensitivity of 87.96% for segmentation. For classification, we obtained a sensitivity of 88.66%, a precision of 90.51%, and an area under the curve (AUC) of 97.8%. The CAD system demonstrates high accuracy in both the segmentation and classification of breast masses, providing a reliable tool for aiding breast cancer diagnosis using the BI‐Rads lexicon. The study also showed that the surrounding tissue has an impact on classification, leading to the importance of choosing the right size of ROIs.
A COMPUTER GRAPHICS HUMAN FIGURE SYSTEM APPLICABLE TO KINESEOLOGY*
Authors: Fetter William A.
Published: November 2024

A study of improved graphic representation of the human figure is being conducted which should be useful to teaching and research in kineseology. Special emphasis is given to applications requiring graphic representation and a variety of levels of detail as an aid to understanding any kineseological process in contest currently, a one thousand point figure data base has been developed in a degree of detail sufficient for displaying many types of motion as driven by a teacher/researcher own programs. Also for simpler gross body motion, a one hundred point figure has been developed for smaller display purposes. Similarly, a 10 and 1 point figure permits contextual situations such as groups of figures in interaction, queuing and for statistical display purposes.
A Deep Learning‐Based Approach to Characterize Skull Physical Properties: A Phantom Study
Authors: Aggrawal Deepika , Saint‐Martin Loïc , Manwar Rayyan , Siegel Amanda , Schonfeld Dan , Avanaki Kamran
Published: November 2024

Transcranial ultrasound imaging is a popular method to study cerebral functionality and diagnose brain injuries. However, the detected ultrasound signal is greatly distorted due to the aberration caused by the skull bone. The aberration mechanism mainly depends on thickness and porosity, two important skull physical characteristics. Although skull bone thickness and porosity can be estimated from CT or MRI scans, there is significant value in developing methods for obtaining thickness and porosity information from ultrasound itself. Here, we extracted various features from ultrasound signals using physical skull‐mimicking phantoms of a range of thicknesses with embedded porosity‐mimicking acoustic mismatches and analyzed them using machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models. The performance evaluation demonstrated that both ML‐ and DL‐trained models could predict the physical characteristics of a variety of skull phantoms with reasonable accuracy. The proposed approach could be expanded upon and utilized for the development of effective skull aberration correction methods.
Intratumoral administration of poly‐ICLC enhances the antitumor effects of anti‐PD‐1
Authors: Liu Shin‐Yun , Hsu Chia‐Lang , Yang Shih‐Feng , Lee Hsuan‐Shu , Sheu Jin‐Chuan , Weng Meng‐Tzu
Published: November 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are effective to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) yet only successful in a small part of patients. This study aimed to investigate whether poly‐ICLC, an immune stimulant, can enhance the antitumor effects of anti‐PD‐1 on mouse HCC.

Methods

We established two syngeneic HCC mouse models with BNL cells in BALB/c mice and Hep‐55.1 C cells in C57BL/6 J mice. Mice with subcutaneous HCC tumors received one of five treatments: control, anti‐PD‐1, intratumoral (IT) poly‐ICLC, anti‐PD‐1 plus intramuscular (IM) poly‐ICLC, or anti‐PD‐1 plus IT poly‐ICLC. Tumor volumes were measured, CD8+ T lymphocytes in tumors and spleen were analyzed, and interferon‐γ activity was assessed by ELISpot. Immune cell types and abundance were evaluated with NanoString nCounter IO360 panels.

Results

Cotreatment with poly‐ICLC significantly enhanced the antitumor effects of anti‐PD‐1, with IT administration being more effective than IM. IT poly‐ICLC also induced more significant CD8+ T cell infiltration and interferon‐γ activity in the tumor and spleen, and more upregulation of both interferon‐γ and M1 macrophage signals in the tumor microenvironment while downregulating several cancer‐promoting pathways.

Conclusions

Combination therapy with poly‐ICLC, especially through IT route, and anti‐PD‐1 provides significantly greater antitumor effects than anti‐PD‐1 monotherapy in syngeneic mouse models of HCC.
Effects of biochar, N‐enriched biochar and urea on tomato seed germination, vegetative growth, and fruit traits
Authors: Fornes Fernando , Castejón‐del Pino Raúl , Cayuela María L , Sánchez‐García María , Lidón Antonio , Belda Rosa M , Sánchez‐Monedero Miguel A
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Agronomic uses of biochar have been intensely explored in the last 15 years. Recently, a new generation of biochar‐based fertilizers has been developed. Raw biochar (BCH), nitrogen‐enriched biochar (N + BCH) or urea were added to a coir fiber‐based substrate for tomato cultivation, to assess seed germination, growth and fruiting of two cultivars (Cuarenteno and Moneymaker).

RESULTS

BCH stimulated seed germination and early radicle growth, possibly because of the presence of karrikins detected in both BCH and N‐BCH (0.039 and 0.044 mg kg−1, respectively). However, BCH reduced growth in adult plants in both cultivars, probably because of ammonium retention, causing low‐N‐stress‐related symptoms such as accumulation of flavonoids in the leaf. Urea was toxic for seed germination because of the fast release of ammonium, but caused a positive effect on adult plant growth and yield, increasing chlorophyll in both cultivars, quantum yield and ascorbic acid in cv. Cuarenteno, and decreasing flavonoids and peroxide in leaves of both cultivars. Unlike urea, N + BCH showed a positive impact on plant growth and yield, but without releasing high amounts of ammonium or negatively affecting seed germination. Nitrogen‐rich amendments reduced phosphorus and increased iron leaf content in both cultivars.

CONCLUSION

BCH can be effectively used as a growth medium constituent in nurseries for seedling production, whereas N + BCH offers a promising alternative to urea or other nitrogen mineral fertilizers for crop cultivation. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Inter‐tow toughness modification of carbon fiber reinforced cyanate resin matrix composites
Authors: Xue Junjie , Wu Fan , Zeng Changyi , Fan Jian , Guo Xinliang , Liu Ronghai , Chen Xiaoming , Xu Peijun
Published: November 2024

Carbon fiber‐reinforced cyanate ester resin matrix composites (CF/CE) are widely used in aerospace for their high‐temperature resistance and wave‐absorbing properties. However, CF/CE is prone to interlaminar delamination during the curing molding process or practical applications due to the brittleness of CE resin. In this study, we use polyether sulfone (PES) as a toughening layer through the inter‐tow toughening method to prepare PES inter‐tow toughened CF/CE (CF/CE‐P) and to investigate their thermal, mechanical, and microscopic morphology. We find that CF/CE‐P has a higher glass transition temperature (Tg) and a lower coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) than those of CF/CE composites. The flexural strength, flexural modulus, interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), and impact toughness of CF/CE‐P with 15 wt% PES is increased by 34%, 15%, 34%, and 45%, respectively, compared to CF/CE. In addition, the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness (GIC) of CF/CE‐P with 15 wt% PES is 1.86 times that of CF/CE.

Highlights

The inter‐tow toughening technique on a three‐dimensional scale is proposed.

Model I interlaminar fracture toughness increased by 86% after inter‐tow toughness modification carbon fiber‐reinforced cyanate ester resin matrix composites.

The composite material exhibits improved toughness and thermal performance.

The prepreg preparation process is suitable for continuous industrial production.
Use of Prenatal Exome Sequencing: Opinion Statement of the French Federation of Human Genetics Working Group
Authors: Cogan Guillaume , Troadec Marie‐Bérengère , Devillard Françoise , Saint‐Frison Marie‐Hélène , Geneviève David , Vialard François , Rial‐Sebbag Emmanuelle , Héron Delphine , Attie‐Bitach Tania , Benachi Alexandra , Saugier‐Veber Pascale
Published: November 2024

Objective

Prenatal whole exome sequencing (pES) is increasingly prescribed for fetuses with ultrasound anomalies. Starting from the local French prenatal medicine practice, healthcare system and legal landscape, we aimed to address the broad medical and ethical issues raised by the use of pES for women and couples as well as for prenatal care providers.

Method

The French Federation of Human Genetics established a working group composed of clinicians and biologists from all over France to discuss pES challenges. A literature review was also performed.

Results

We emphasize the importance of non‐directive information that helps couples make a decision that is consistent with their personal values and ideas. We address the difficulty of obtaining informed consent that respects the couple's autonomy, despite the complexity of the information and regardless of their level of education and cultural background. We address whether variants of uncertain significance and unsolicited results should be reported. We emphasize the need for national harmonization of access to pES and the need for multidisciplinary meetings in complex situations. We point out that the specific French context of healthcare financing and the French law have a major influence on medical care organization and support for couples. The outcome of the working group is the development of 12 proposals.

Conclusion

This opinion statement, dedicated to prenatal care providers worldwide although linked to the French context, will provide food for thought and assist them in understanding the complexity and implications of pES.
Exome Sequencing in Fetuses With Bilateral Renal Agenesis Identified on Second Trimester Ultrasound: A Single Referral Center Experience
Authors: Yu Qiu‐Xia , Zhen Li , Xiao Zhi‐Qing , Wen Yun‐Jing , Li Dong‐Zhi
Published: November 2024

Objective

To determine the exome sequencing results in fetuses with bilateral renal agenesis (BRA).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 14 cases with BRA diagnosed on second trimester anatomy ultrasound. All cases underwent invasive prenatal diagnosis. Genetic investigations were performed by chromosomal microarray analysis and trio exome sequencing. Clinical and laboratory data were collected and reviewed for these cases, including maternal demographics, prenatal sonographic findings, molecular sequencing results, and pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in three genes (FRAS1, PBX1, and KMT2D) were detected by exome sequencing in 6 (6/14) cases. One gene (FRAS1) is inherited in an autosomal recessive (AR) manner and two (PBX1 and KMT2D) are autosomal dominant (AD); both AD variants were de novo. Only the FRAS1 variants were detected in more than one case. Variants in five cases were believed to be the cause of BRA, and the variants detected in PBX1 and KMT2D were likely the cause of fetal phenotype suggesting that the two genes can present with BRA. The yield of exome sequencing in our series is one third (4/12) after excluding two families with a previous family history.

Conclusion

Fraser syndrome, resulting from FRAS1 variants, is the most common cause of genetic BRA identified in this specific cohort. The determination of genetic etiology will be valuable in the possible choices for pregnancy management and risk assessment of recurrence in future pregnancies.
Effect of Aging Temperature on the Mechanical Properties, Biodegradability, and Cytocompatibility of the as‐Rolled Zn‐3Al‐1Cu Alloy
Authors: Li Jinxiu , Shen Ying , Kolawole Sharafadeen Kunle , Siddiqui Muhammad Ali , Zhan Jie , Zhu Xiangying , Su Xuping , Chen Junxiu
Published: November 2024

The inherent low strength of zinc (Zn) alloys limits their application, and aging treatment is a method that can be used to improve the properties of Zn alloys significantly. In this work, the effects of aging temperature on microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the as‐rolled Zn‐3Al‐1Cu alloy are studied. The results show that the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the alloy can be significantly improved by tuning the aging temperature. Through aging treatment, the grain size of the second phase grows and more of the second phase is precipitated, which improves the mechanical properties and plasticity of the as‐rolled Zn‐3Al‐1Cu alloy. The tensile and yield strengths of the as‐rolled Zn‐3Al‐1Cu alloy aged at 80 °C are the highest, which are 206.11 ± 1.63 and 177.57 ± 1.70 MPa, respectively. Conversely, the alloy aged at 160 °C displays the best plasticity, where its elongation reaches 25.66 ± 0.49%. In addition, aging at 160 °C leads to the best corrosion resistance, reaching a corrosion rate obtained by the electrochemical test of 0.0016 mm year−1.
A high‐resolution climatological study of explosive cyclones in the Mediterranean region: Frequency, intensity and synoptic drivers
Authors: Carniel Cosimo Enrico , Ricchi Antonio , Ferretti Rossella , Curci Gabriele , Miglietta Mario Marcello , Reale Marco , Serafini Piero , Wellmeyer Evan David , Davolio Silvio , Zardi Dino , Kantha Lakshmi
Published: November 2024

In the complex context of climate change and in a heavily populated area like the Mediterranean region, understanding and studying explosive cyclones (ECs) is crucial because of their potential to cause extreme weather events, including strong winds, heavy rainfall, and significant disruptions to human activities and infrastructure, as happened in 2018 with the Vaia storm. The genesis and persistence of ECs, characterized by a rapid drop in central mean sea level pressure exceeding 12 hPa in 12 hours, are influenced by various physical processes and while water vapour convergence in the mid‐low troposphere is crucial, mid‐upper tropospheric cyclonic vorticity advection and upper tropospheric divergence also play significant roles. In this study, we used ERA5 hourly data of mean sea level pressure from 1979 to 2020 to analyse EC occurrences in the Mediterranean. The identification of EC events followed the 12‐hr deepening‐rate criterion introduced by Zhang et al. (2017), as shorter deepening rates definitions proved unreliable. A total of 80 ECs were identified and classified based on their spatial occurrence and magnitude, 34 of which were concentrated in the northwest of the basin, likely due to orographic deformation caused by the Alps on baroclinic waves originating from the Atlantic. The study also identified recurring synoptic patterns associated with the persistence of ECs over the sea, including the presence of potential vorticity (PV) streamers and mid‐tropospheric dry‐air intrusions. Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis highlighted the Scandinavian pattern as the primary driver, with blocking conditions over western Russia and Scandinavia, and composite analyses revealed the intrusion of PV to various atmospheric levels, extending up to 500 hPa. In summary, this study offers valuable insights into the complex mechanisms governing EC formation in the Mediterranean Basin, shedding light on the synoptic patterns, atmospheric dynamics, and potential impacts on regional weather systems.
The Association Between Male Viral Infections and Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Guo Yan , Zhou Guozhong , Feng Yun , Zhang Jie , Liu Yang , Yang Xianyao , Liu Pan , Feng Yue , Xia Xueshan
Published: November 2024

Infertility affects approximately one‐sixth of couples worldwide, with male factors contributing to half of all cases. However, infections, particularly those of reproductive tract, are increasingly recognized as important contributors to male infertility. Therefore, in this meta‐analysis, we focused on the impact of various viral infections on male infertility. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library on 20 October 2023. And included 135 studies involving 30,298 men of reproductive age. We found that the human papilloma virus (HPV)‐infected group had a significantly higher DNA fragmentation index (DFI) than the non‐infected group, with a mean difference (MD) of 5.64 (95% CI: 3.74–7.54). Conversely, the HPV‐infected group had significantly lower sperm count, concentration, viability and normal morphology. Other viruses that affect semen quality include hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). HBV significantly decreased fertilization rate, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.76–0.99). HPV associated with lower clinical pregnancy rate (OR: 0.31 [95% CI: 0.16–0.62]) and higher miscarriage rate (OR: 5.28 [95% CI: 2.02–13.78]). Additionally, the fertility treatment group had a significantly higher rate of HPV infection (OR: 1.85 [95% CI: 1.10–3.12]) and adeno‐associated virus (AAV) infection (OR: 8.49 [95% CI: 2.66–27.10]) than the fertility group. Conclusively, most viral infections affect semen quality, while HBV and HPV may affect assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. HPV and AAV are risk factors for infertility.
Enacting Reading Comprehension: Using Diverse Literature to Engage Children's Critical, Sociopolitical Knowledge
Authors: Johnson Wintre Foxworth , Vlach Saba Khan , Leija Maria
Published: November 2024

The current climate of K‐12 education in the United States has seen a narrowing of literacy instructional practices, exponential amounts of book bans, and contrived hysteria about liberal indoctrination and Critical Race Theory (CRT). Yet, as the world becomes increasingly connected across difference, and as research increasingly demonstrates that we must engage young children from all backgrounds in discussions about sociopolitical issues, it is urgent that classroom teachers foreground children's experiential knowledge in comprehension instruction. In this article, we address the following question: In three early elementary literacy contexts, how did educators use culturally sustaining practices with diverse children's literature to enact reading comprehension and engage young children in critical, sociopolitical meaning making? Three teacher educators of Color share findings from qualitative studies in the United States Northeast and Southwest that examine this integration with the use of diverse children's literature. The first finding illustrates how teachers utilized book introductions to situate a diverse group of early elementary‐aged students in various sociopolitical issues and engage them in critical readings about texts. The second finding illustrates how a series of after‐school literature circle discussions enabled first‐grade African American children to make meaning dialogically and communally about enslavement. The third finding illustrates how the teacher created space for second‐grade Latinx students to translanguage as they drew on multiple reading comprehension strategies and made sense of immigration. The implications from these studies invite a rethinking of the dominant paradigm of reading comprehension instruction.
Instant and Synergistic Antibacterial Coating of Silver Loaded With Silica Nanoparticles for Different Applications
Authors: Gomaa Mona H. , Abdallah Samah S. , Ghayad Ibrahim M. , El‐Sayed Kh. , Hamid Z. Abdel
Published: November 2024

The synthesis of antibacterial nanoparticles is one of the most promising strategies to get rid of the primary threat that pathogenic bacteria pose to public health. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are a promising antibacterial agent with robust and broad antibacterial characteristics that have the potential to resolve this issue. A straightforward reduction–impregnation approach for creating an Ag‐loaded SiO2 nanocomposite has been presented in the present study. First, the well‐known Stöber method was employed to produce silica nanoparticles, which were subsequently examined utilizing an X‐ray diffraction (XRD), a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM), and a high‐resolution transmission electron microscope (HR‐TEM). After that, a composite made of Ag@SiO2 was produced and examined. AgNPs, which are loaded with silica and exhibit instantaneous and synergistic antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive “Bacillus subtilis” (B. subtilis) bacteria, were demonstrated. The coating layer that was produced also showed strong adherence to the steel substrate, a high inhibitory effect against the (B. subtilis), and versatility in its application across various sectors.
Effect of Hierarchical Architecture of Nickel Modified Mesoporous Catalysts on the Knoevenagel Condensation Reaction
Authors: Carraro Paola M. , Nope Eliana , Sathicq Ángel G. , Romanelli Gustavo P. , Eimer Griselda A.
Published: November 2024

A series of ordered mesoporous silicas (MCM‐41, SBA‐15 and KIT‐6) were successfully synthesized and modified with nickel by incipient wetness impregnation method. The supports and catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption‐desorption, XRD, TEM, H2‐TPR, UV vis‐DR, XPS, ICP and Py FT‐IR techniques. All the materials were evaluated in the Knoevenagel condensation reaction between vanillin and malononitrile under microwave irradiation. The catalytic results show the key role that the chosen porous structure plays in the deposition of the active phase and its catalytic behaviour. Thus, by designing a suitable mesoporous catalyst it was possible to carry out such Knoevenagel condensation to obtain 2‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzylidene) malononitrile through a highly efficient and environmentally friendly process, without solvents and reducing reaction times by employing microwave heating.
Dipeptidic Proline Amide–Isothiouronium Salt Organocatalysts for Enantiodivergent Conjugate Addition Reactions Between Aldehydes and Nitroolefins
Authors: Yeo Hyoung Min , Kim Taek Hyeon
Published: November 2024

We rationally designed and successfully developed novel dipeptidic proline amide–isothiouronium catalysts for asymmetric conjugate addition reactions between various aldehydes and nitroolefins, which generated 1,4‐addition products with up to 95% yields, 92:8 syn‐diastereoselectivity, and 96% enantiomeric excess. The catalysts, which were prepared via simple methylation of the corresponding thiourea, can provide the desired enantiomeric syn‐1,4‐adducts by exchanging the configuration of the N‐terminal proline moiety.