bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concurrent chemoradiotherapyof different radiation doses and different irradiation fields for locally advanced thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A randomized, multicenter, phase III clinical trial
Authors: Zhang Jian , Li Minghao , Zhang Kaixian , Zheng Anping , Li Guang , Huang Wei , Chen Shaoshui , Chen Xiangming , Li Xiaomin , Sheng Yanxing , Sun Xinchen , Liu Liping , Liu Xiaowei , Li Jie , Wang Jun , Ge Hong , Ye Shucheng , Pang Qingsong , Zhang Xianwen , Dai Shengbin , Yu Richard , Gu Wendong , Dai Mingming , Siqin Gaowa , Han Yunwei , Ge Xiaolin , Yuan Xin , Yang Yongjing , Zhu Haiwen , Pu Juan , Dong Lihua , Sun Xiangdong , Zhou Jundong , Mao Weidong , Gao Fei , Lin Haiqun , Gong Heyi , Zhou Tao , Li Zhenjiang , Li Hongsheng , Wang Zhongtang , Li Baosheng
Published: August 2024

Background

Concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) is the standard treatment for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the optimal radiotherapy regimen, particularly in terms of total dose and planned range of irradiation field, remains unclear. This phase III clinical trial aimed to compare the survival benefits between different radiation doses and different target fields.

Methods

This trial compared two aspects of radiation treatment, total dose and field, using a two‐by‐two factorial design. The high‐dose (HD) group received 59.4 Gy radiation, and the standard‐dose (SD) group received 50.4 Gy. The involved field irradiation (IFI) group and elective nodal irradiation (ENI) group adopted different irradiation ranges. The participants were assigned to one of the four groups (HD+ENI, HD+IFI, SD+ENI and SD+IFI). The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and the secondary endpoints included progression‐free survival (PFS). The synergy indexwas used to measure the interaction effect between dose and field.

Results

The interaction analysis did not reveal significant synergistic effects between the dose and irradiation field. In comparison to the target field, patients in IFI or ENI showed similar OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.80‐1.23, p = 0.930) and PFS (HR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.82–1.25). The HD treatment did not show significantly prolonged OS compared with SD (HR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.72–1.11, p = 0.318), but it suggested improved PFS (25.2 months to 18.0 months). Among the four groups, the HD+IFI group presented the best survival, while the SD+IFI group had the worst prognosis. No significant difference in the occurrence of severe adverse events was found in dose or field comparisons.

Conclusions

IFI demonstrated similar treatment efficacy to ENI in CCRT of ESCC. The HD demonstrated improved PFS, but did not significantly improve OS. The dose escalation based on IFI (HD+IFI) showed better therapeutic efficacy than the current recommendation (SD+ENI) and is worth further validation.
Hybrid attention adaptive sampling network for human pose estimation in videos
Authors: Song Qianyun , Zhang Hao , Liu Yanan , Sun Shouzheng , Xu Dan
Published: August 2024

Human pose estimation in videos often uses sampling strategies like sparse uniform sampling and keyframe selection. Sparse uniform sampling can miss spatial‐temporal relationships, while keyframe selection using CNNs struggles to fully capture these relationships and is costly. Neither strategy ensures the reliability of pose data from single‐frame estimators. To address these issues, this article proposes an efficient and effective hybrid attention adaptive sampling network. This network includes a dynamic attention module and a pose quality attention module, which comprehensively consider the dynamic information and the quality of pose data. Additionally, the network improves efficiency through compact uniform sampling and parallel mechanism of multi‐head self‐attention. Our network is compatible with various video‐based pose estimation frameworks and demonstrates greater robustness in high degree of occlusion, motion blur, and illumination changes, achieving state‐of‐the‐art performance on Sub‐JHMDB dataset.
Case of widespread and atypical cutaneous leishmaniasis in a young woman with breast cancer
Authors: Mohaghegh Fatemeh , Mokhtari Fatemeh , Sherafat Fereshteh , Shoushtarizadeh Mohammad , Tabatabaei Elham Tavousi
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus leishmania. Atypical presentation and widespread progression of the lesions may be seen in an immunocompromised patient. We report a case of atypical and widespread cutaneous leishmaniasis in a young woman with breast cancer.
Gold Catalysts for Selective Hydrogenations: The Role of Heterolytic H2 Dissociation
Authors: Luiz Fiorio Jhonatan , Guerra Raíza Rosa Garcia , Martín‐Matute Belén , Rossi Liane Marcia
Published: August 2024

Hydrogenations are fundamental transformations in organic synthesis, and the industrial applications span from food, petrochemical, fine chemicals to pharmaceuticals synthesis where hydrogenations of multifunctional molecules should be carried out in a chemoselective way. In this concept article we aim at providing an overview on the activation of molecular hydrogen (H2) via heterolytic dissociation, which is responsible to unlock high activity of gold catalysts for chemoselective hydrogenations. The key benefit of heterolytically dissociated H species is their preference for hydrogenating polar unsaturated groups like C=O, C=N, and C=S, as these polar bonds are ideal acceptors for proton and hydride pairs. We will provide examples on how to obtain enhanced chemoselectivity on alkynes, α, β‐unsaturated aldehydes and nitro‐compounds hydrogenations with gold catalysts.
One‐Pot Synthesis of (S)‐Flavanones by a Double‐Face Promiscuous Chemo‐Enzymatic Cascade of Lipases
Authors: Ubertini Valentina , Capecchi Eliana , Tomaino Elisabetta , Piccinino Davide , Marchi Elisa De , Bizzarri Bruno Mattia , Carotenuto Giovanni , Castrignanò Tiziana , Saladino Raffaele
Published: August 2024

The one‐pot stereoselective synthesis of (S)‐flavanones from 2′‐hydroxyacetophenone and substituted aromatic aldehydes was obtained by a double‐face promiscuous chemo‐enzymatic cascade of porcine pancreas and Mucor javanicus lipases. The reaction pathway comprises: A) cross‐aldol condensation catalysed by porcine pancreas lipase to yield chalcone intermediates; B) unprecedented intramolecular oxa‐Michael addition of chalcone intermediates to (S)‐flavanones. Mucor javanicus lipase was the most effective enzyme in step B. Imidazole and 2‐methylimidazole were studied as additive in order to improve the efficacy of the overall transformation. The sustainability of the chemo‐enzymatic cascade was increased by immobilization of lipases on cross‐linked hydroxy‐methylated kraft lignin nanoparticles, by use of concanavalin A. Immobilization conferred considerable stability and reusability at the system for 4 runs. Noteworthy, the reaction mixture was significantly enriched in (S)‐flavanones under both homogeneous and heterogeneous conditions. Computational studies encompassing docking and molecular dynamic analyses showed the role played by evolutionary conserved oxyanion holes and catalytic triad of Mucor javanicus lipase in the stereocontrol of the intra‐molecular oxa‐Michael addition.
Study on the Flow and Heat Transfer Performance of Microchannel Heat Exchangers With Different Elliptical Concave Cavities
Authors: Hou Tingbo
Published: August 2024

Ellipticity has a significant impact on the flow and heat transfer performance of microchannel heat exchangers (MHEs) with elliptical concave cavities. In this study, five types of MHEs with different elliptical concave cavities (ellipticities of 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2) were designed. The influence of ellipticity on the flow and heat transfer performance of MHEs was numerically investigated using ANSYS Fluent 21.0 R1. Moreover, MHEs with corresponding elliptical concave cavities structures were processed and manufactured, and then an experimental platform was designed and built for experimental verification. The results showed that the fluid velocity distribution in MHEs with elliptical concave cavities was symmetrical, and the formation of secondary flow in the elliptical concave cavities led to the continuous destruction and reconstruction of the flow and thermal boundary layer in the microchannel, which is conducive to mass and heat transfer in the MHEs with elliptical concave cavities. The inlet and outlet pressure drop of MHEs with elliptical concave cavities increased as the inlet flow rate increased. At the same inlet flow rate, the inlet and outlet pressure drop of the MHE with elliptical concave cavities first increased and then decreased with increasing ellipticity. At an ellipticity of 1.0, the inlet and outlet of MHE exhibited the lowest pressure drop indicating that the MHE with an ellipticity of 1.0 featured the highest pressure drop performance. The cold‐water outlet temperature of the MHEs with elliptical concave cavities first decreased and then increased as the inlet flow rate increased. At the same inlet flow rate, the cold‐water outlet temperature of the MHEs with elliptical concave cavities first increased and then decreased with increasing ellipticity, while the hot‐water outlet temperature of the MHEs first decreased and then increased with increasing flow rate. This indicated that the MHE with an ellipticity of 1.0 exhibited excellent heat transfer performance.
Reproducible Green Syntheses Using Hybrid Sol‐Gel Catalysts
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Luque Rafael , Pagliaro Mario
Published: August 2024

Referring to selected examples of reproducible green syntheses using hybrid sol‐gel catalysts of the SiliaCat series from different doctoral theses and research works published between 2015 and early 2024, this study briefly illustrates how said catalysts have been applied in a number of green synthetic methods of significant industrial relevance. This shows evidence that the nanochemistry “bottom‐up” sol‐gel approach based on catalytic species entrapped in organically modified silicas as effective and versatile heterogeneous catalysts developed between the late 1990s and 2010 has succeeded. Subsequent developments will show how the use of said materials in automated syntheses, supplying data to machine learning algorithms actually leads to faster and cheaper optimization of the reaction conditions. Said progress ultimately will further accelerate industrial uptake of heterogeneous catalysis under flow in the fine chemical industry whose reluctance to change processes was due to the need to replace financially amortized (and expensive) production plants.
Quantitative Reactivity Models for Oxidative Addition to L2Pd(0): Additional Substrate Classes, Solvents, and Mechanistic Insights
Authors: Lu Jingru , Celuszak Holly , Paci Irina , Leitch David C.
Published: August 2024

Quantitative molecular structure‐reactivity models are useful for generating predictions to guide synthesis design, and in formulating and testing mechanistic hypotheses. We report an expanded multivariate linear regression (MLR) model for the rate of (hetero)aryl (pseudo)halide oxidative addition to L2Pd(0), here exemplified by Pd(PCy3)2. This builds on a prior model from our group, with additional substrate classes (aryl chlorides and iodides) and reaction solvents (THF, toluene, THF/DMF mixture). Overall solvent effects across the entire substrate set are minimal under these conditions, enabling a unified MLR model without introduction of new molecular descriptors beyond the original five. Examining the mechanistic origin of the two molecular electrostatic potential (ESP) descriptors led to generation of a simpler, four descriptor model that is suitable for aryl halides, but not for 2‐halopyridines. Using this model we identified a mechanistic outlier, 2‐pyridyl triflate, which undergoes a nucleophilic displacement oxidative addition that does not involve the adjacent nitrogen atom. Finally, we discuss the relationship between C−X bond strength and oxidative addition rates, and compare the intrinsic bond strength index (IBSI) to bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE) as a bond strength descriptor.
Tight Lipschitz hardness for optimizing mean field spin glasses
Authors: Huang Brice , Sellke Mark
Published: August 2024

We study the problem of algorithmically optimizing the Hamiltonian of a spherical or Ising mixed ‐spin glass. The maximum asymptotic value of is characterized by a variational principle known as the Parisi formula, proved first by Talagrand and in more generality by Panchenko. Recently developed approximate message passing (AMP) algorithms efficiently optimize up to a value given by an extended Parisi formula, which minimizes over a larger space of functional order parameters. These two objectives are equal for spin glasses exhibiting a no overlap gap property (OGP). However, can also occur, and no efficient algorithm producing an objective value exceeding is known. We prove that for mixed even ‐spin models, no algorithm satisfying an overlap concentration property can produce an objective larger than with non‐negligible probability. This property holds for all algorithms with suitably Lipschitz dependence on the disorder coefficients of . It encompasses natural formulations of gradient descent, AMP, and Langevin dynamics run for bounded time and in particular includes the algorithms achieving mentioned above. To prove this result, we substantially generalize the OGP framework introduced by Gamarnik and Sudan to arbitrary ultrametric forbidden structures of solutions.
Plant breeding simulations with AlphaSimR
Authors: Bančič Jon , Greenspoon Philip , Gaynor R. Chris , Gorjanc Gregor
Published: August 2024

Plant breeding plays a crucial role in the development of high‐performing crop varieties that meet the demands of society. Emerging breeding techniques offer the potential to improve the precision and efficiency of plant breeding programs; however, their optimal implementation requires refinement of existing breeding programs or the design of new ones. Stochastic simulations are a cost‐effective solution for testing and optimizing new breeding strategies. The aim of this paper is to provide an introduction to stochastic simulation with software AlphaSimR for plant breeding students, researchers, and experienced breeders. We present an overview of how to use the software and provide an introductory AlphaSimR vignette as well as complete AlphaSimR scripts of breeding programs for self‐pollinated, clonal, and hybrid crops, including relevant breeding techniques, such as backcrossing, speed breeding, genomic selection, index selection, and others. Our objective is to provide a foundation for understanding and utilizing simulation software, enabling readers to adapt the provided scripts for their own use or even develop completely new plant breeding programs. By incorporating simulation software into plant breeding education and practice, the next generation of plant breeders will have a valuable tool in their quest to provide sustainable and nutritious food sources for a growing population.
Effects of intercropping with Fenlong tillage “145” mode on ratoon sugarcane photosynthesis, growth, and yield
Authors: Zeng Weicong , Li Ruiling , Li Zhigang , Wei Benhui , Zhu Shuifang , Chu Haiwei , Lan Chenjie , Li Ruchuan , Han Shijian , Li Suli
Published: August 2024

Soil compaction and resource competition are bottlenecks in the improvement of sugarcane productivity in intercropping systems. Fenlong tillage improves crop yields by alleviating soil compaction and ensuring water supply. Wide‐narrow rows are an effective solution for light competition. An efficient intercropping system with Fenlong tillage technology as the core needs to be constructed. A two‐cycle field study was conducted to investigate the effects of planting methods [sole ratoon sugarcane (S) and ratoon sugarcane‐soybean intercropping (I)] combined with tillage [conventional rotary tillage (RT), Fenlong tillage “145” mode (FL145)] on soil physical characteristics, photosynthesis, and growth of ratoon sugarcane, as well as crop yields. For the ratoon sugarcane, compared to RT‐I, FL145‐I decreased bulk density and increased porosity in the 0–40 cm soil layer. Root growth parameters were improved under FL145‐I in the 0–20 cm soil layer. FL145‐I positively affected the stomatal conductance, causing increases in the net photosynthetic and transpiration rates. The increased leaf area index, chlorophyll relative content, and photosynthesis under FL145‐I caused higher dry matter accumulation. The increased single stalk weight under FL145‐I resulted in 17.13%–22.55% higher stalk yield with similar quality. Intercropping under the wide‐narrow row planting pattern had no negative effects on the growth and stalk yield of ratoon sugarcane. For the soybean, compared to RT‐I, the increased 100‐seed weight under FL145‐I resulted in 11.14% higher seed yield with similar quality. Therefore, FL145‐I presents a promising and novel management practice for sustainably increasing ratoon sugarcane productivity in China.
Enhancing Benzylamine Electro‐Oxidation and Hydrogen Evolution Through in‐situ Electrochemical Activation of CoC2O4 Nanoarrays
Authors: Zhang Guanqiao , Hu Jialai , Zhang Wanling , Yu Kun , Zhang Wenbiao , Gao Qingsheng
Published: August 2024

The sluggish anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) seriously restricts the overall efficiency of water splitting. Here, we present an environmentally friendly and efficient aniline oxidation (BOR) to replace the sluggish OER, accomplishing the co‐production of H2 and high value‐added benzonitrile (BN) at low voltages. Cobalt oxalates grown on cobalt foam (CoC2O4 ⋅ 2H2O/CF) are adopted as the pre‐catalysts, which further evolve into working electrocatalysts active for BOR and HER via appropriate electrochemical activation. Thereinto, cyclic voltammetry activation at positive potentials is performed to reconstruct cobalt oxalate via extensive oxidation, resulting in enriched Co(III) species and nanoporous structures beneficial for BOR, while chronoamperometry at negative potentials is introduced for the cathodic activation toward efficient HER with obvious improvement. The two activated electrodes can be combined into a two‐electrode system, which achieves a high current density of 75 mA cm−2 at the voltage of 1.95 V, with the high Faraday efficiencies of both BOR (90.0 %) and HER (90.0 %) and the satisfactory yield of BN (76.8 %).
Measuring single‐cell immune clonality to track haematological cancers
Authors: Choo Amos , Tuong Zewen Kelvin
Published: August 2024

While paediatric blood cancers are deadly, modern medical advances have enabled clinicians to measure levels of residual cancer cells to manage therapeutic strategies for patients. However, blood cancers, including leukaemias and lymphomas, are highly heterogeneous and is comprised of complex clonal populations that can hinder efforts in detecting the cancer cells as well as managing treatments. Furthermore, the tumour microenvironment is comprised of heterogenous immune dynamics that may be different between patients. High‐throughput sequencing has constributed to new discoveries in genetic and transcriptomic alterations underpinning cancer, including blood cancers, and has changed how patients are monitored and managed. Here we discuss the recent efforts using single‐cell approach, particularly on efforts to track clonal heterogenity of paediatric blood cancer and the underlying immune response, highlighting avenues for novel biomarker discovery that may have significant impact on clinical oncology practice.
Optimized deep learning‐based channel estimation for pilot contamination in a massive multiple‐input‐multiple‐output‐non‐orthogonal multiple access system
Authors: S. Deepa , Singh Charanjeet , P. N. Renjith
Published: August 2024

One of the advanced field in 5G cellular networks is the Massive Multiple‐Input‐Multiple‐Output (MIMO), which creates a massive antenna array by offering numerous antennas at the destination. This grows as a hot research topic in the wireless sectors as it enhances the volume and spectrum usage of the channel. The spectral efficiency (SE) is maximized using the abundant antennas employed by MIMO using spatial multiplexing of consumers, which needs precise channel state information (CSI). The SE is affected by both pilot overhead and pilot contamination. To mitigate the contamination and to estimate the suitable channel for communication, an efficient strategy is introduced using the proposed Namib Beetle Aquila optimization (NBAO)_Deep Q network (DQN). Here, the optimal pilot location is identified by employing NBAO, which is an integration of Namib beetle optimization (NBO) and Aquila optimizer (AO). Moreover, DQN is introduced to determine the suitable channel and metrics, such as bit error rate (BER) and normalized mean square error (MSE) is used for evaluation. The normalized MSE channel estimation is utilized to mitigate the effects of pilot contamination. Additionally, designed NBAO + DQN have attained a value of 0.0006 and 0.0005 for BER and normalized MSE.
Salivary Gland Neoplasm of Uncertain Malignant Potential (SUMP) (Milan IVB) and Its Subgroups: A Multi‐Institutional Analysis of Risk of Neoplasm and Malignancy
Authors: Xia Rong , Hindi Issa , Savant Deepika , Khader Samer , Lajara Sigfred , Belovarac Brendan , Das Kasturi , Chau Karen , Abdelwahed Mohammed , Ali Amr , Szeto Oliver , Hernandez Osvaldo , Sun Wei , Liu Cheng Z. , Zhou Fang , Simsir Aylin , Brandler Tamar C.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) plays a crucial role in their initial assessment of salivary gland neoplasms. In the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC), the category of Salivary Gland Neoplasm of Uncertain Malignant Potential (SUMP) categorizes lesions with ambiguous features. This study aims to investigate the risk of neoplasm (RON) and risk of malignancy (ROM) within different subgroups of SUMP lesions using data from three large academic institutions.

Methods

We analyzed salivary gland (FNA) cases from three academic institutions post‐MSRSGC implementation. Salivary gland FNA cases categorized as Milan IVB (SUMP) with subsequent surgical pathology follow‐up were analyzed. Cases were divided into basaloid, oncocytic, and clear cell SUMP subtypes, with RON and ROM assessed and compared.

Results

Out of 1377 MSRSGC cases, 231 were SUMP (16.8%), with 101 subjected to surgical pathology follow‐up. The overall ROM for SUMP was 20.8%, with variations of 10% to 29.5% observed amongst institutions, but no significant difference was observed among three institutions (p = 0.15). Basaloid and oncocytic SUMP displayed 17.1% and 20.5% ROM, respectively, without significant disparity. However, all clear cell SUMP cases were malignant on surgical resection.

Conclusions

This study highlights the variability in ROM for SUMP lesions and the significantly higher ROM in SUMP cases with clear cell features. These findings emphasize the importance of accurately subcategorizing SUMP lesions, particularly those with clear cell features, for appropriate clinical management.
Cytologic Findings and Ancillary Tests Results of Sclerosing Pneumocytoma: Our Institutional Experience
Authors: Policarpio‐Nicolas Maria Luisa C. , Webb Sydnee , Azzato Elizabeth M. , Chaari Rema Rao , Hissong Erika , Brainard Jennifer A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Sclerosing pneumocytoma (SP) is a rare benign tumor and a potential diagnostic pitfall. Our aim was to review the cytologic features of our surgically diagnosed SP cases including the clinical, immunohistochemical and available molecular findings.

Materials and Methods

A computerized search from 2013 to 2020 for surgical cases with corresponding cytology specimens diagnosed as SP was performed. The clinical data, cytology, and surgical specimens were collated for analysis.

Results

Six cytology specimens were collected. All were female (mean age = 35). Three have incidental lung nodules and three with cough. Cytologic findings showed variable architectural pattern (papillary, solid, singly scattered, acinar/rosette‐like) and cellular heterogeneity (surface, stromal, epithelioid, plasmacytoid cells). Atypia was identified in 4/6 cases. The original cytology diagnoses were negative = 1, SP = 2 and adenocarcinoma = 3. The latter diagnoses were amended to SP after review of the surgical specimens. The three false positive cases on review have cytologic features mimicking adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemical stains showed tumor cells (surface and stromal) were positive for TTF‐1, and EMA with only the surface cells positive for pancytokeratin and Napsin A. Though two cases sent for molecular testing were negative for AKT1 or CTNNB1 exon 3 mutation, our panel did not evaluate AKT1 exon 4.

Conclusions

SP is a diagnostic pitfall with 50% initially misdiagnosed as adenocarcinoma. Integrating the clinical/radiologic findings, cytologic features, and performance of immunohistochemistry on cell block are helpful in avoiding misdiagnosis. Molecular testing for recurrent mutations, if present, could be helpful for diagnosis and possible therapy options. However, routinely used molecular testing may not always capture relevant molecular markers for SP.
Early‐life diet composition affects phenotypic variation of correlated animal personality traits
Authors: Serrano Davies Eva , Miguel Alba , Sepers Bernice , van Oers Kees
Published: August 2024

Behavioural traits are under both genetic and environmental influence during early life stages. Early environmental conditions related to the amount and type of food have been found to alter behaviour in many organisms. However, how early life diet affects the variation in and the correlation between behavioural traits is largely unknown. Using a multivariate approach, we investigated how variation in parental prey selection is related to three repeatable nestling personality traits, and explored the within and between‐individual covariation between these behaviours in a wild passerine, the great tit (Parus major). Our results confirm that breath rate, docility and handling aggression (HA) in great tit nestlings are repeatable traits. Contrary to our expectation, the three nestling personality traits did not form a behavioural ‘syndrome’ on the phenotypic level in the study population, but we found two of three expected phenotypic correlations, mostly at the within‐individual level. Moreover, we found that breath rate significantly decreased with a higher number of spiders in the diet, and docility and handling aggression were significantly and inversely related to higher numbers of noctuids and tortricids in the diets of individuals within broods. Thus, our findings suggest that provisioning quantity and quality during the early life, affects variation in behavioural phenotypes, which occurs mainly at the within‐individual level.
Interrelation of the spatial and genetic structure of tick‐borne encephalitis virus, its reservoir host (Myodes glareolus), and its vector (Ixodes ricinus) in a natural focus area
Authors: Kauer Lea , Dobler Gerhard , Schmuck Hannah M. , Chitimia‐Dobler Lidia , Pfeffer Martin , Kühn Ralph
Published: August 2024

Tick‐borne encephalitis (TBE) virus is considered the medically most important arthropod‐borne virus in Europe. Although TBE is endemic throughout central Europe, ticks and rodents determine its maintenance in small, difficult‐to‐assess, natural foci. We investigated the interrelation between the population genetics of the main TBE virus (TBEV) vector tick (Ixodes ricinus), the most important reservoir host (Myodes glareolus, syn. Clethrionomys glareolus), and TBEV. Rodents and ticks were sampled on 15 sites within an exploratory study area, which has been screened regularly for TBEV occurrence in ticks for more than 10 years. On all 15 sites, ticks and bank voles were sampled, screened for TBEV presence via serology and RT‐PCR, and genetically examined. Moreover, TBEV isolates derived from these analyses were sequenced. In long‐term TBEV foci bank vole populations show extraordinary genetic constitutions, leading to a particular population structure, whereas ticks revealed a panmictic genetic structure overall sampling sites. Landscape genetics and habitat connectivity modeling (analysis of isolation by resistance) showed no landscape‐related barriers explaining the genetic structure of the bank vole populations. The results suggest that bank voles do not simply serve as TBEV reservoirs, but their genetic composition appears to have a significant influence on establishing and maintaining long‐term natural TBEV foci, whereas the genetic structure of TBEV's main vector I. ricinus does not play an important role in the sustainability of long‐term TBEV foci. A thorough investigation of how and to which extent TBEV and M. glareolus genetics are associated is needed to further unravel the underlying mechanisms.
Differences in boldness between Eurasian and American wolves (Canis lupus) might be based on adaptive mechanisms
Authors: Tebelmann Hana , Ganslosser Udo
Published: August 2024

Boldness – defined as the propensity of individuals to take risks – is a key research area within animal behavioural studies, significantly affecting adaptive strategies, habitat selection, foraging behaviour, reproduction, dispersal, and other crucial survival behaviours. Despite the extensive study of personality traits like extraversion and curiosity across various animal species, data on wolves (Canis lupus), particularly on the subspecies level, remains sparse. This study aims to bridge this gap by examining boldness and its associated personality traits in different wolf subspecies (Canis lupus lupus, Canis lupus arctos, Canis lupus lycaon) (n = 23), and wolf‐dog hybrids (n = 10), utilising novel object interaction tests and validated questionnaires previously applied to wild canids. Our results show significant differences in boldness as well as in related personality traits between taxa, both between pure wolves and wolf hybrids, with significantly higher boldness of North American subspecies. The inter‐subspecies differences were more significant than the differences between groups or at the individual level, suggesting that subspecies ecology and historical selection pressure in subspecies history might have caused long‐lasting adaptations in Canis lupus ssp.
Climate change differentially alters distribution of two marten species in a hybrid zone
Authors: Chmura Helen E. , Olson Lucretia E. , Murdoch Remi , Fraik Alexandra K. , Jackson Scott , McKelvey Kevin S. , Koenig Rex , Pilgrim Kristine L. , DeCesare Nicholas , Schwartz Michael K.
Published: August 2024

Species' ranges are shifting rapidly with climate change, altering the composition of biological communities and interactions within and among species. Hybridization is among the species interactions that may change markedly with climate change, yet it is understudied relative to others. We used non‐invasive genetic detections to build a maximum entropy species distribution model and investigate the factors that delimit the present and future ranges of American marten (Martes americana) and Pacific marten (Martes caurina) in a contact zone in the Northern Rockies. We found that climate change will decrease the suitable habitat predicted for both species, as well as the amount of overlap in predicted suitable habitat between the species. Interestingly, predicted suitable habitat for Pacific marten extended further north in the study region than our genetic detections for the species, suggesting that biotic factors, such as interactions with American marten, may affect the realized range of this species. Our results suggest that future work investigating the interactions among biotic and abiotic factors that influence hybrid zone dynamics is important for predicting the futures of these two species in this area under climate change.
Effect of Continuous Electrolysis on the Power Generation Performance of a Microtubular Oxide Fuel Cell Using Intermediate Ring‐Shaped Collector
Authors: Liu Jiawei , Chen Zhicong , Liang Hao , Ye Hao , Liu Yinglong , Liu Yingli , Xu Xiaoru , Lu Shenghuo , Yao Yingbang , Tao Tao , Zhao Xiaobo , Liang Bo
Published: August 2024

An anode‐support microtubular solid oxide fuel cell (MTSOFC) using an intermediate ring‐shaped electrode collector is simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics software to investigate current density distribution and mass transfer in both power generation and electrolysis modes. The cell is converted to power generation mode during continuous electrolysis, and the electrochemical performance of MTSOFC is tested to study the effect of electrolysis on the power generation performance. The power density output of the MTSOFC decreases from 250 to 150 mW cm−2 after only 40 h of continuous electrolysis. The microstructural changes in different regions during operation are observed through posttest analysis conducted on the fuel inlet, electrochemical reaction concentration region, and fuel outlet of the microtubular cell. The local agglomeration of nickel occurs in the concentrated region of the electrochemical reaction, while the coarsening of nickel oxidation mainly takes place at the fuel inlet and outlet.
Review of intrusion detection system in cyber‐physical system based networks: Characteristics, industrial protocols, attacks, data sets and challenges
Authors: Ji Ram , Padha Devanand , Singh Yashwant , Sharma Surbhi
Published: August 2024

Cyber‐Physical Systems (CPSs) provide critical infrastructure for the betterment of human lives thereby integrating cyber and physical components but the fusion of physical and digital components leads to an increase in the attack surface, which in turn provides opportunities for the attackers to intrude on these systems, which can affect the critical services like health care, water treatment facility, the electrical grid, hydropower plant, and so forth. The existing intrusion detection systems (IDSs) in CPSs are facing issues like poor detection accuracy, high false alarm rate and more computation time. Also, existing intrusion detection systems cannot identify new attacks that is, zero‐day assaults. Prerequisite exists for the design of the framework for detecting intrusions using artificial intelligence inspired approaches grounded on the principle of ensemble techniques. Intrusion detection framework assimilating ensemble‐based technique for CPS has been proposed. Since the proposed framework incorporates privileges of multiple techniques for intrusion detection and classification, hence the proposed framework may overcome the limitations of existing IDSs for CPS. Overview of cutting‐edge incursion identification methods for CPSs is presented. Several characteristics of CPS, industrial protocols, and anomaly detection techniques for intrusion detection are analyzed. Taxonomy of IDS for CPS has been proposed, taxonomy of attacks and threats on CPS has been intended. Research challenges for IDS in CPS are also uncovered from this review.
Thermal behavior of adhesively bonded timber‐concrete composite slabs subjected to standard fire exposure
Authors: Fu Qiuni , Chen Haoze , Brunkhorst Sven , Zehfuß Jochen , Kasal Bohumil , Yan Libo
Published: August 2024

Fire tests were performed for the first time on adhesively bonded timber‐concrete composite slabs. The two medium‐scale (1.8 × 1.25 m) slabs were produced by gluing an 80‐mm thick three‐layer cross‐laminated timber (CLT) board to a 50 mm thick prefabricated reinforced concrete (RC) slab with epoxy and polyurethane (PUR) adhesives, respectively. The behavior of the composite slabs under elevated temperature was monitored by (1) observing the burning behavior of the used CLT, for example, charring and delamination and (2) measuring the temperature development at different locations of the CLT slabs, in the adhesive bond between concrete and timber boards, and in RC slabs. It was found that employing a one‐dimensional charring model for pure softwood, as prescribed by Eurocode 5‐1‐2, underestimated the charring depth of CLT due to the delamination effects. Measurements revealed that the average charring rates in the middle layer of CLT panels were approximately 0.65 mm/min, suggesting that the presence of concrete does not significantly affect the thermal behavior of the CLT panel. Delamination within the CLT was observed when its adhesive temperature was around 230°C. It was followed by the free‐fall of delaminated wood plies, which progressed slowly and lasted until the end of the test. At 90 min into the test, the temperatures of epoxy at the nine locations ranged between 55°C and 130°, while that of PUR between 60°C and 100°. The adhesive between concrete and CLT could lose stiffness significantly along the rising of temperature after surpassing of glass transition temperature (58°C for epoxy and 23°C for PUR in this study). The results indicated a high risk of weakening the composite action between the concrete slab and timber board. The measured temperatures of steel rebar were lower than 50°C. However, the concrete temperature reached about 120°C and the concrete cracked due to the distinct thermal expansions between concrete and timber and the rigid constraint of adhesive bond.
Updated evidence on raspberries as functional foods: Anticancer bioactivity and therapeutic implications
Authors: Azzini Elena , Barnaba Lorenzo , Mattera Maria , Calina Daniela , Sharifi‐Rad Javad , Cho William C.
Published: August 2024

Raspberries (RBs) (Rubus idaeus) are rich in bioactive compounds with promising anticancer properties. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the anticancer effects of RBs, highlighting their potential as natural agents in cancer prevention and therapy. Bioactive compounds in RBs induce apoptosis, arrest the cell cycle, inhibit angiogenesis, and suppress metastasis. Preclinical studies demonstrate significant anticancer effects against colon, breast, lung, prostate, and cervical cancers, with clinical studies also supporting their therapeutic potential. Although preclinical findings are encouraging, further large‐scale clinical trials are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in humans. Optimizing formulations to enhance bioavailability and therapeutic effectiveness is crucial. This review emphasizes the potential of dietary interventions involving RBs as a complementary approach to conventional cancer therapies, paving the way for future research and clinical innovations.
Analysis of energy and exergy of lavender extract powder in spray dryer
Authors: Meshkat Hossein , Sharifian Faroogh , Hosainpour Adel , Nikbakht Ali Mohammad , Kaveh Mohammad
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the research in the field of medicinal plants as therapeutic supplements has increased significantly. Lavender extract is widely used among medicinal plant products due to its unique therapeutic properties. Since drying processes require high energy, this study was conducted to study the performance of the spray dryer in the production of lavender extract powder at three levels of air temperature 150°C, 180°C, and 210°C, three levels of compressed air flow rate 6, 8, and 10 L/min and ratios of maltodextrin‐drying aid to the mass of dry matter of the extract 0%, 25%, and 50% by response surface method. For this purpose, the energy efficiency and exergy of the powder production process were examined. According to the obtained results, increasing the inlet air temperature and the inlet air flow rate increased the energy efficiency and exergy and decreased the energy efficiency and exergy, respectively. The energy efficiency of the drying process varied in the range of 6.55%–15.87%, and the exergy efficiency () of the drying process in the range of 2.87%–5.84%. Also, the of the spray dryer was calculated in the range of 20.05%–38.78%. Based on the energy efficiency and exergy, the optimal production of lavender plant extract powder was obtained at the air temperature of 210°C, the compressed air flow rate of 6 L/min, and the amount of drying aid of 11.9 g/L.
Thermal and mass stratification effects on MHD flow past an accelerated vertical plate with exponentially decaying wall temperature and exponential mass diffusion in porous medium
Authors: Rabha Rakesh , Deka Rudra Kanta
Published: August 2024

This study analyzes the heat and mass transfer of magnetohydrodynamic flow past an accelerated vertical plate along with exponentially decaying wall temperature and exponential mass diffusion, in which thermal and mass stratification was considered. The governing equations are solved by employing the Laplace transform method, and graphs are produced by implementing MATLAB software. The impacts of both stratifications on various parameters involved in our studies were investigated with the help of graphs. Graphs were used to display the effects of various parameters on velocity, temperature, concentration, skin friction, Nusselt number, and Sherwood number. We consider both the cases, that is, with and without stratification to study the effects of thermal and mass stratification. By evaluating the results of thermal stratification with an unstratified environment, the study comes to an important conclusion. It is seen that the Steady state is reached quickly with the combined effect of both stratifications. It is also discovered that the velocity steadily reduced as the magnetic field parameter increased. This research has many applications in understanding the fluid flow in engineering and technology fields, such as geophysics, astrophysics, and fluid engineering difficulties.
Enhancing heat transfer with a synthetic jet for thermal management applications
Authors: Shaker Sufian F.
Published: August 2024

This article explores the utilization of a synthetic jet as an approach to cool microelectronic devices, addressing their thermal management needs. The study includes both experimental measurements and numerical simulations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the heat transfer characteristics and fluid flow patterns generated by the synthetic jet actuator. The average Nusselt number (Nu) of the synthetic jet impinging flow with the dimensionless separation distances of the orifice to the heated surface (H/D) is investigated at different Reynolds numbers. A dynamic mesh scheme is employed in performing the simulations of the fluid domain to showcase the diaphragm's vibration and its deformation over time. The velocity profiles exhibit that the synthetic jet flow prompts the formation of two countervortices during every vibrating cycle of the diaphragm. The experimental results align closely with the predicted outcomes, indicating that the synthetic jet significantly enhances heat transfer by 3.1 times relative to the natural convection in the case of (H/D = 8.4) across different Reynolds numbers while maintaining low power consumption, a compact size, and a noise‐free operation.
Numerical investigation of free convection inside square wavy enclosure using response surface methodology
Authors: Fadhil Ahmed A. , Azzawi Itimad D. J. , Yahya Samir Gh , Khadom Anees A. , Al‐Rubaye Layth Abed Hasnawi
Published: August 2024

Free convection is commonly applied in various engineering fields such as solar energy, electronic devices, nuclear energy, and heat exchangers. A computational simulation was used to analyze the natural heat transfer through convection in a wavy cavity with squared shape that was filled with tap water and saturated metal foam to assess the influence of hump configuration (square, triangle, circular, down semicircular, and up semicircular) and magnetic fields (magnetohydrodynamics) on heat transfer rate. The bottom wavy wall of the enclosure exhibits a high temperature (Th), whereas the top and side walls maintain a low temperature (Tc). The present paper will examine how the bottom wall hump number (N), aspect ratio (L), geometry inclination angle (θ), Hartman number (Ha), magnetic field intensity inclination angle (ɤ) affects the heat transfer rate at various Rayleigh numbers. When the circular hump design is used with specific parameters, including ɛ = 0.85, L = 1.25, N = 4, Tc = 0°C, θ = 0°, Ha = 600 and ɤ = 45°, for different Ra values, it leads to increased heat transfer and notable improvements in heat transfer enhancement (ɸ) and energy enhancement (e). The enhancements were measured at 2.5 times for heat transfer enhancement and 8.9 times for energy enhancement. Moreover, the ideal case of the current study had Ha = 600, L = 1.25, Ra = 30 × 103, and θ = 0° compared to the baseline case. Simulations were accomplished using CFD. The results demonstrate that the primary goal of the research was achieved by optimizing the design, leading to a significant improvement in hydrothermal performance for both ɸ = 2.5 and e = 8.9.
Does climate risk vulnerability affect the value of excess cash? International evidence
Authors: Guizani Assil , Nizar Hamza , Lakhal Faten , Hamza Taher , Benkraiem Ramzi
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we investigate the impact of climate risk on the value of excess cash. Based on an international sample of 6468 firm‐year observations from 2010 to 2019, the results show that climate risk vulnerability positively affects the value of excess cash. This suggests that investors may consider firms with excess cash to be better positioned to challenge extreme weather events by using cash reserves to cover up expenses and maintain operations. This positive effect is more pronounced for firms operating in countries with strong investor protection, for those with strong governance quality, and for those with high corporate social responsibility performance. However, it is less accentuated in the presence of financial constraints. Overall, our findings have significant practical implications for decision‐makers, investors, and policymakers.
A prospective study of the acquisition of vaginal examination skills using simulation
Authors: Hill Emma , Moreau Antoine , Martin Ludovic , Papin‐Groseil Justin
Published: August 2024

Objective

To determine the number of sessions required using procedural simulation to acquire the skill of vaginal examination, which is an essential part of obstetrics, but a difficult learned skill.

Methods

Using a high‐fidelity simulator, we conducted a prospective, single‐center, single‐blind study, at the Angers School of Midwifery. A class of students completed a theory course, and took part in three simulation sessions. During the simulation sessions, each student was asked to describe five different cervixes, under five criteria: position, length, consistency, dilation, and head station. Each participant received individual feedback as part of a debrief session, after completing their description. A pass rate of 80% was set for the entire class.

Results

Twenty‐six students participated. The class achieved a mean score of 70.77 ± 10.23% in the first session, 81.85 ± 9.91% in the second session, and 81.23 ± 8.63% in the third session. There was a significant improvement only between the first and second sessions (P < 0.001). Of the 26 participants, 6 (23%) scored over 80% in the first session, 17 participants (65%) scored above 80% in the first two sessions, and 21 participants (80%) scored above 80% over the three sessions.

Conclusion

Learning vaginal examination by procedural simulation with the aid of a high‐fidelity simulator, and receiving individual feedback and debrief, resulted in an 80% pass rate in two practical sessions, working to describe 10 cervixes.