bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Synthetic Approach to Singlet Phospholo[3,4‐c]thiophene Biradicals via the Conversion from Phosphole to Thiophene
Authors: Ueta Yasuhiro , Kasai Junnosuke , Ito Shigekazu
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a molecular design for open‐shell singlet biradicals through a synthetic study of phospholo[3,4‐c]thiophenes in which the phosphole ring is fused with thiophene. The sulfur‐bridged diyne was converted into the titanacycle intermediate, and the subsequent treatment with chlorodiphenylphosphine provided the corresponding phosphole via the [2+2+1] cycloaddition process. The −CH2SCH2‐bridged phosphole oxide could be isomerized to the corresponding thiophene structure probably because of the larger aromaticity of thiophene rather than phosphole. The 4,6‐dihydrophospholo[3,4‐c]thiophene 5‐oxide derivative was triflated to give the thiophene‐fused cyclic phosphonium salt, which could generate the desired singlet biradical by treatment with potassium hydride. In addition, pai‐extension of the 4,6‐dihydrophospholo[3,4‐c]thiophene 5‐oxide unit using the Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction with arylstannanes was accomplished, and the resultant isolable 5,6‐dihydro‐4H‐phospholo[3,4‐c]thiophene derivatives showed potent characters as precursors of singlet biradical. The generation of biradical phospholo[3,4‐c]thiophenes was supported by the [4+2] trapping reaction and the 1,2‐migration leading to a cyclic phosphaalkene.
Mechanical Properties and In Vitro Degradation Study of Modified‐Polylactic Acid Block Copolymers/Polyetheretherketone Biocomposites
Authors: Shi Meng , Zhu Ge , Lin Ning , Ma Jingzhi
Published: November 2024

Polylactic acid (PLA) plays a crucial role in addressing global environmental concerns, particularly the challenges of achieving carbon peak and neutrality goals. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has emerged as a potential orthopedic implant material due to its excellent mechanical properties, elastic modulus similar to human bone, wear resistance, and good biocompatibility. In this study, PEEK/PLA (PEEK/PLA) composites were prepared using a film‐casting method. PEEK exhibits a spherical structure and can be dispersed in the PLA matrix, demonstrating good compatibility with PLA. Additionally, PEEK acts as a heterogeneous nucleating agent, reducing the surface free energy barrier for the crystallization nucleation of PLA molecules and promoting PLA crystallization. When the PEEK content is 8%, the tensile strength and Young's modulus of the composite material increase by 15.45% and 91.23%, respectively, compared to pure PLA. Furthermore, the introduction of the copolymer (PCxLyA) not only improves the compatibility between PLA and the blend but also successfully regulates the mechanical properties and in vitro degradation of the composite by adjusting the ratio of ε‐caprolactone and L‐lactide in the copolymer. This study not only delves into the modification strategies and methods for PLA composites but also provides new insights for developing biomedical materials with excellent properties.
Adapting measures of motor imitation for use by caregivers in virtual contexts: Reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change
Authors: Ingersoll Brooke , Howard Mya , Oosting Devon , Carter Alice S. , Stone Wendy L. , Berger Natalie , Wainer Allison L. , Britsch Emily R. ,   RISE Research Network
Published: November 2024

Early imitation challenges for children with autism are thought to contribute to broader delays in their social communication development. As such, imitation is an important intervention target for young children with and showing early signs of autism, and efforts are underway to disseminate evidence‐based imitation interventions into community settings. To our knowledge, there are currently no established imitation assessments that have been validated for use in virtual contexts. This study was designed to examine the reliability and validity of two caregiver‐implemented imitation measures delivered with support from a remote virtual assessor. Study participants (177 caregiver‐child dyads) were enrolled in a large, multisite study that is examining the effectiveness of a caregiver‐implemented intervention delivered through the Part C early intervention (EI) system across four states. Results indicate that the assessments can be administered remotely with strong fidelity, internal reliability, predictive validity, discriminant validity, convergent validity, and sensitivity to change. Stability over time was adequate. These findings suggest that imitation skills can be measured effectively using a remote caregiver‐implemented assessment, which provides greater opportunity for virtual clinical trials targeting social communication in young children.

Clinical Trial Registration

The trial protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05114538).
Harnessing Green Intellectual Capital for Sustainable Development: The Dynamic Capabilities Approach to Environmental Policy
Authors: Aisha Begum Md , Swamy T. N. V. R. L.
Published: November 2024

This research explores the critical role of Green Intellectual Capital (GIC) in fostering business sustainability within the Indian hotel industry, with a particular focus on the mediating effect of dynamic capabilities. GIC comprises three key components such as Green Human Capital (GHC), Green Relational Capital (GRC), and Green Structural Capital (GSC). Dynamic capabilities, which enable organizations to sense, seize, and transform resources in response to environmental changes, play a crucial role in enhancing the relationship between GIC and sustainability outcomes. Using a quantitative approach, a survey was conducted with 400 professionals from the Indian hotel sector. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to examine the relationships between GIC, Dynamic capabilities, and Business sustainability. The findings reveal that GHC and GRC have significant direct effects on business sustainability, while GSC's impact is primarily mediated by dynamic capabilities. The results emphasize that dynamic capabilities allow hotels to adapt and innovate in the face of sustainability challenges, ensuring long‐term business viability. This work addresses a gap in the existing literature by focusing on the hospitality sector in a developing economy, offering practical insights for hotel managers to leverage GIC and dynamic capabilities to improve sustainability. It also contributes to theoretical frameworks by integrating the Resource‐Based View (RBV) and Dynamic Capabilities theories. Future research could expand to other sectors and explore additional mediating variables.
Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Dysfunction in People With Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kanter Natalie G. , Cohen‐Woods Sarah , Balfour David , Burt Morton G. , Waterman Alison L. , Koczwara Bogda
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Cancer can be a source of significant psychological and physical stress. Prolonged stressful stimuli can influence the stress response, mediated by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. However, there is limited literature investigating HPA axis function in patients with cancer.

Methods

A systematic literature review of case–control studies was conducted comparing individuals with and without cancer examining the HPA axis function. Databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus) were searched from inception to May 2023.

Results

Seventeen studies met eligibility criteria: nine unstimulated‐cortisol studies and eight reporting the effect of HPA stimulation or suppression. Sixteen studies reported altered levels of HPA function in cancer patients relative to controls, including 12 reporting increased baseline or hyperactive cortisol responses, and four—decreased baseline cortisol or blunted cortisol responses, two of which had patient groups with now known cortisol‐suppressing treatments. HPA dysfunction was observed in patients of both sexes, diverse ages, stages of cancer and cancer treatments. Six papers reported on clinical outcomes with cases experiencing higher levels of fatigue, stress, poor memory, poor well‐being and disturbed sleep. There was significant heterogeneity in methodologies across the studies.

Conclusion

HPA dysfunction was common in patients with cancer relative to cancer‐free controls. The majority of studies in cancer reported an increased baseline cortisol and increased response to HPA stimulation. There is a need for well‐powered studies using standardised methodology examining the mechanisms of HPA dysregulation and their health outcomes, to enable the development of appropriate tools for the diagnosis and management of HPA dysfunction in cancer.
Peptides for Liquid‐Liquid Phase Separation: An Emerging Biomaterial
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Shi Junfeng
Published: November 2024

Liquid‐liquid phase separation (LLPS) refers to a spontaneous separation behavior of biomacromolecules under specific physiological conditions, playing a crucial role in regulating various biological processes. Recent advances in synthetic peptides have greatly improved our understanding of peptide‐based coacervate droplets and expanded their applications in biomedicine. Numerous peptide sequences have been reported that undergo phase separation, enabling the concentration and sequestration of different guest molecules for purposes such as drug delivery, catalytic performance, and bioanalytical techniques. Particularly, some of these peptides offer significant advantages in controlled drug release, efficient cell transfection, accelerated reaction kinetics, and selective biomarker detection. This review provides an overview of recent developments in peptide‐based LLPS, exploring various strategies for designing peptide sequences and their biomedical applications. It also addresses the challenges and future directions for LLPS peptide vehicles as promising biomaterials.
Intersystem Crossing, Photo‐Induced Charge Separation and Regioisomer‐Specific Excited State Dynamics in Fully Rigid Spiro Rhodammine‐Naphthalene/Anthraquinone Electron Donor‐Acceptor Dyads
Authors: Ye Kaiyue , Sukhanov Andrey A. , Li Jiayu , Liu Lishan , Chen Xi , Zhao Jianzhang , Voronkova Violeta K. , Li Ming De
Published: November 2024

We prepared a series fully rigid spiro electron donor‐acceptor orthogonal dyads, with closed form of rhodamine (Rho) as electron donor and naphthalene (Np)/anthraquinone (AQ) as electron acceptor, to access the long‐lived triplet charge separation (3CS) state, via the electron spin control method. We found strong dependency of the photophysical property of the dyads on the amino substitution positions of the Np chromophores in the dyads 1,8‐DaNp‐Rho and 2,3‐DaNp‐Rho. Nanosecond transient absorption (ns‐TA) spectra show the population of the 3LE state (lifetime: 47 μs) for 2,3‐DaNp‐Rho, however, long‐lived 3CS state was observed (τCS=0.62 μs) for AQ‐Rho, with a CS quantum yield of ΦCS=58 %. Based on femtosecond transient absorption (fs‐TA) spectra, spin orbit charge transfer ISC (SOCT‐ISC) is proposed to be responsible for the formation of the triplet states. Time‐resolved electron paramagnetic resonance (TREPR) spectra of AQ‐Rho indicate the presence of two states, a 3LE state with zero field splitting (ZFS) D parameter of 1400 MHz and E parameter of −410 MHz, formed via radical pair ISC (RP‐ISC) and SOCT‐ISC mechanism; and a 3CS state with the electron spin‐spin interaction in the regime of spin‐correlated radical pair (SCRP).
Thin‐layer cervical sample evaluation: Conventional light microscopy versus digital whole‐slide imaging
Authors: Viti Jessica , Di Stefano Chiara , Giunti Serena , Pompeo Giampaolo , Pezzati Paola , Terreni Alessandro , Sani Cristina ,   The Cytology Working Group
Published: November 2024

Background

Whole‐slide imaging (WSI) has been adopted in many fields of pathology for education, quality assurance, and remote diagnostics. In 2021, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) updated guidelines to support pathology laboratories regarding the WSI systems validation process. However, the majority of published literature refers to histopathology rather than cytology. The aim of this study was to compare conventional light microscopy (CLM) and WSI in thin‐layer cervical samples evaluation according to CAP guideline.

Methods

A sample set of 64 thin‐layer cervical specimens from women 25–64 years old who participated in cervical cancer screening programs in Tuscany was distributed among five cytologists at Institute for Cancer Research, Prevention and Clinical Network (Florence, Italy) for CLM analysis. After 2 weeks, the corresponding 64 digitally scanned slides were available at several magnifications for WSI evaluation.

Results

Substantial/near perfect agreement between CLM and WSI evaluation (0.77 ≥ κ ≥1) was observed for the negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM) class with concordance rates from 83.3% to 100%.Variability in concordance was observed among all the cytologists: 50%–85.7% for low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), 47.1%–100% for high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), 50%–100% for atypical glandular cells (AGCs) favors adenocarcinoma (ADK) with moderate/near perfect agreement (0.47 ≥ κ ≥1). Concordance and agreement rates were also variable within the “borderline” cytological categories of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC‐US), atypical squamous cells cannot exclude an HSIL (ASC‐H), and AGCs with lower or not computable kappa for some readers. The overall intralaboratory concordance between CLM and WSI was 92.9% with a near perfect agreement (κ = 0.84) for NILM. Substantial agreement (κ ≥0.65) was assessed for LSIL, HSIL/squamous cell carcinoma, AGCs, and ADK categories whereas the agreement was lower (κ ≤0.39) for ASC‐US and ASC‐H.

Conclusions

This study showed an overall substantial/near perfect agreement between CLM and WSI for all the cytological categories except the “borderline” ASC‐US and ASC‐H. Further progress in cytology WSI systems are needed before introducing it in routine diagnostics.
Outcomes of Cancer Patients Affected by COVID‐19 in Different Settings: A Retrospective Study in Lebanon
Authors: El Mahmoud Ahmad , Karam Elie Jean , Abou Zeidane Reine , Khaled Wafaa , Zougheib Youssef , Azzo Joe David , El Jebbawi Hussein , Atoui Ali , Mohty Razan , Diab Tasnim , Abou Dalle Iman , Charafeddine Maya , Assi Hazem I.
Published: November 2024

Background

The diverse presentation of COVID‐19 symptoms and outcomes has revealed a significant gap in understanding the specific risk factors and characteristics of the virus among immunocompromised cancer patients, particularly in the Middle East.

Aims

We our study aimed to address this gap by investigating the characteristics and outcomes of COVID‐19 in cancer patients compared to non‐cancer patients.

Methods and Results

We carried out a retrospective analysis, collecting demographic, oncologic, and COVID‐19‐related data from electronic medical records of 248 patients admitted to our tertiary care center in Lebanon. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS to identify patterns. Patients with solid tumors were 3.433 times more likely to die than those who were cancer‐free (p = 0.012). Moreover, patients with advancing disease were 2.805 times more likely to be admitted to the ICU (p = 0.03) and 14.7 times more likely to die (p < 0.001) compared with those in remission.

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the critical need for tailored preventive measures and specialized care for immunocompromised cancer patients, given their heightened vulnerability to severe COVID‐19 outcomes. These insights contribute to the development of specific strategies aimed at enhancing the protection and clinical management of this high‐risk group.
Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of the Neonatal Fc Receptor Inhibitor Rozanolixizumab: An Ethnic Sensitivity Study in Healthy Japanese, Chinese, and White Participants
Authors: el Baghdady Assem , Lledó‐García Rocío , Gayfieva Maryam , Lowcock Romana , Watanabe Shikiko , Sidhu Jagdev , Wilkes Denisa
Published: November 2024

Rozanolixizumab is an anti‐human neonatal Fc receptor humanized immunoglobulin (Ig) G4 monoclonal antibody that reduces IgG, including pathogenic IgG autoantibodies. Rozanolixizumab safety and tolerability have been assessed in previous clinical studies with predominantly White participants. We assessed safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of single doses of rozanolixizumab in healthy Japanese and Chinese participants compared with White participants. This double‐blind, single‐center, UK‐based, Phase 1 study randomized 65 participants to rozanolixizumab 4 mg/kg (Japanese and White participants only), 7  mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg. All treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were mild to moderate in severity; no severe TEAEs, serious TEAEs, or TEAEs leading to discontinuation occurred. Incidences of TEAEs in Japanese and Chinese participants were comparable to those in White participants. Japanese and Chinese participants had lower systemic rozanolixizumab exposure relative to Caucasian participants, attributable to lower actual doses administered due to lower body weight in Chinese and Japanese participants, indicating that body weight is not a relevant predictor of rozanolixizumab pharmacokinetics. All 3 ethnicities demonstrated dose‐dependent IgG reductions, with IgG nadir achieved around Day 10 and gradual return to baseline levels by Day 56. These data support the applicability of safety data from previous clinical studies of rozanolixizumab to individuals of Japanese and Chinese ethnicity.
Stable π Radical BDPA: Adsorption on Cu(100) and Survival of Spin
Authors: Teeter Jacob D. , Miller Daniel P. , Müllegger Stefan
Published: November 2024

The adsorption of the radical α,ɣ‐bisdiphenylene‐β‐phenylallyl (BDPA) molecule to the Cu(100) surface was studied using scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM), scanning tunnelling spectroscopy (STS), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations accounting for dispersion forces. BDPA on Cu(100) was observed to align preferentially along
directions due to weak Cu−C chemisorption between fluorenyl carbons with the underlying copper atoms. The curved shape of the BDPA molecule on Cu(100) can be ascribed to the lack of molecular orbital character on the phenyl substituent. A Kondo‐like feature from differential conductance (dI/dV) measurements centered close to the Fermi energy (
) suggests the retention of an electron spin‐1/2 state, which is corroborated by hybrid DFT calculations that place the SOMO (singly occupied molecular orbital) below and SUMO (singly unoccupied molecular orbital) above
for BDPA adsorbed to Cu(100).
Impact of Indirect Trauma and Disaster Media Exposure on Psychological States and Temporal Processes: The Case of 2023 Turkey Earthquakes
Authors: Oz Irem Tugce , Cona Giorgia
Published: November 2024

Turkey experienced two devastating earthquakes, which resulted in more than 50,000 deaths and millions of injured and homeless individuals. The negative influence of direct exposure to trauma has been proven, but the impact of indirect exposure remains unclear. In this study, we focused on indirect types of trauma exposure: the loss of someone in the earthquake and the exposure to disaster media. We aimed to explore the influence of these dimensions on psychological states, including earthquake trauma severity, post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression, anxiety, hopelessness and life satisfaction and temporal‐psychological measures, such as intertemporal decision‐making tendencies and time perspectives. The sample (N = 215) consisted of Turkish individuals who experienced the earthquakes through two types of indirect exposure: having lost someone and being exposed to disaster media. Findings showed that having a loss in the earthquake was related to high levels of trauma, anxiety, hopelessness and a past‐negative time perspective. Repetitive exposure to disaster media was linked to higher levels of trauma, PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, stress and a past‐negative time perspective. Importantly, the amount of traumatization in case of losing someone was modulated by the frequency of disaster‐media exposure. Even indirect exposure to the disaster substantially disturbs many processes, and the media magnifies such disturbances.
Thermodynamic Fluorescence Behavior of a Fluorenone Derivative through Solvent‐ and Temperature‐Controlled Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Lee Jineun , Sakaguchi Toshikazu , Kwak Giseop
Published: November 2024

A fluorenone derivative with an extended conjugated structure emitting visible light was examined as a functional fluorescent dye that responds to solvent and heat stimuli in a precisely controlled manner. Intermolecular hydrogen bonds between the fluorenone dye and solvent, which cause fluorescence (FL) quenching due to vibronic coupling, were broken and regenerated by adjusting the hydrogen bond acidity and basicity of solvent mixtures in various combinations or by varying the temperature. The fluorenone dye exhibited a unique heat‐induced FL emission enhancement during heating and returned to the quenched state during cooling. Thus, this FL change was highly reversible and repeatable. Moreover, through thermodynamic consideration based on the spectroscopic analysis, the Gibbs energy change was calculated for each solvent mixture composition to predict the thermodynamic preference for FL enhancement.
Determination of pKa Values of C−H Bonds in Polar Fluorinated Arenes Referred to a New CF3SO2‐Substituted Anchor Compound
Authors: Kong Xiangmei , Liang Yunfei , Guo Zhenbo , Lin Tianxing , Liu Shan , Liu Zhiyi , Liu Tianfei , Cheng Jin‐Pei
Published: November 2024

pKa values of C−H bonds remain unreported and challenging in fluorous solvents because of these solvents’ unique physicochemical properties, although they have been measured, theorized and predicted successfully in water and common organic solvents. Herein, a new CF3SO2‐substituted anchor compound designed for matching the physicochemical properties of polar fluorinated arenes is synthesized. Its self‐dissociation constants in these solvents are used as bases for experimentally determining the pKa values of 36 C−H compounds in them. These experimentally determined pKa values exhibit excellent linear free‐energy relationships and correlate well with their corresponding DFT‐calculated values. These data indicate that the polar fluorinated arenes are thermodynamically more favorable for deprotonation of ketone derivatives than acetonitrile as reaction media, resulting in enhanced deprotonation‐promoted CO2 fixation. The pKa values determined in this work can be used as an important guidance tool for reactions involving the formation and cleavage of C−H bonds in polar fluorinated arenes.
Targeting METTL3 as a checkpoint to enhance T cells for tumour immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Kaixin , Li Sa , Hong Guangliang , Dong Hongzhi , Tang Tongke , Liu He , Jin Lingmei , Lin Siyuan , Ji Jingyun , Hu Mingli , Chen Shuntian , Wu Haoyuan , Luo Guanzheng , Wu Haoyuan , Kong Xiangqian , Chen Jiekai , He Jiangping , Wu Hongling
Published: November 2024

Background

Immunotherapy has emerged as a crucial treatment modality for solid tumours, yet tumours often evade immune surveillance. There is an imperative to uncover novel immune regulators that can boost tumour immunogenicity and increase the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Epigenetic regulators play critical roles in tumour microenvironment remodelling, and N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is known to be involved in tumourigenesis. However, the role of m6A in regulating T‐cell function and enhancing anti‐tumour immunity remains unexplored.

Methods

Several cancer cell lines were treated with STM2457, an enzymatic inhibitor of RNA m6A methyltransferase METTL3, and explored the transcriptome changes with RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq). We then utilised mouse melanoma (B16) and mouse colorectal adenocarcinoma (MC38) models to investigate the effects of METTL3 inhibition on immunotherapy, and analysed the dynamics of the tumour microenvironment via single‐cell RNA‐seq (scRNA‐seq). Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo T‐cell cytotoxicity killing assay and CRISPR Cas9‐mediated m6A reader YTHDF1‐3 knockout in B16 were performed to assess the role and the molecular mechanism of RNA m6A in tumour killing. Finally, the efficacy of METTL3 inhibition was also tested on human melanoma model (A375) and human T cells.

Results

We demonstrate that inhibiting METTL3 augments tumour immunogenicity and sustains T‐cell function, thereby enhancing responsiveness to ICB therapy. Mechanistically, METTL3 inhibition triggers an interferon response within tumour cells, amplifying the anti‐tumour immune response, along with deletion of the m6A reader protein YTHDF2 in tumours inhibiting major histocompatibility complex (MHC)‐I degradation. Remarkably, these anti‐tumour effects are reliant on the immune system. Specifically, METTL3 inhibition enhances interferon‐gamma (IFNγ) and granzyme B (GzmB) expression, thereby strengthening T‐cell killing ability, and concurrently dampening the expression of exhaustion‐related genes.

Conclusion

Targeting METTL3 enhances anti‐tumour immunity by boosting T‐cell cytotoxicity and reversing T‐cell exhaustion. Our study positions METTL3 as an epigenetic checkpoint, highlighting the potential of targeting METTL3 to invigorate intrinsic anti‐tumour defenses and overcome immune resistance.

Key points

Targeting METTL3 augments tumour cell immunogenicity and sustains T‐cell function.

T cell with METTL3 inhibition can reverse T‐cell exhaustion, and promote expression of IFNγ and GzmB, thereby enhancing cytotoxicity in anti‐PD‐1 therapy.

YTHDF2 deletion in tumours prolong the lifespan of MHC‐I mRNAs.
Data Compression Using Optimized Compressive Sensing in Cognitive Radio Network
Authors: A Kumar , Nithyavathy N.
Published: November 2024

In cognitive radio networks, cooperative spectrum sensing can greatly improve detection performance and reduce test time because cognitive users work cooperatively to detect spectrum signals. However, it is important to reduce the number of measurements taken from the original signal. To overcome these challenges, this study proposes optimized compressive sensing (CS) to reduce processing time and speed up spectrum sensing. To optimize the performance of CS, the penguin optimization algorithm (POA) is used in this approach. The optimal CS matrix is selected using this algorithm. In this algorithm, mean square error (MSE) is considered an objective function. It selects the CS matrix with the minimum error as the optimal matrix. Step size optimized sparsity adaptive matching pursuit algorithm (SSOSAMP) is used to reconstruct the compressed signal using the optimized sensitivity matrix. MATLAB is used to implement this proposed approach. Simulation results show that the proposed system achieves an SNR of 27.43%, a reconstruction probability of 94.28%, and an MSE of 4.27%.
A Miniaturized Embedded Frequency Selective Surface‐Based EMI Shield for Microwave Ovens
Authors: Jayanandan T. , Alex Zachariah C.
Published: November 2024

This work presents a new miniaturized frequency selective surface (FSS) design to be employed as an electromagnetic (EM) shield in the 2.45 GHz (ISM band) range, with optically transparent glass substrate. A step‐by‐step procedure on the miniaturization technique and the corresponding frequency response is presented. The proposed FSS layout consists of an optimized square loop and a central reactive element consisting of meandered lines. The metal layout is embedded between borosilicate glass as substrate on top and bottom sides, achieving a final periodicity of 0.12λ. A miniaturization of 69.05% was achieved, and the equivalent circuit model was synthesized to understand the EM behavior of the proposed FSS design, and results were compared. The shielding effectiveness of 53.25 dB was achieved with polarization insensitivity for both TE and TM modes, and the angular stability was also studied. A prototype of the proposed work was fabricated, and the frequency characteristics were studied in the anechoic chamber setup. Ellipsometer setup was used to study the optical properties of prototype, and optical transparency of 81.8% was achieved. The measured and simulated results show close agreement and confirm the usability of the proposed FSS in glass‐based electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications in ISM band.
Divergent Population Trends of Two Sympatric Auk Species in the Rapidly Warming Gulf of Maine
Authors: Durham Sarah E. , Saunders Sarah P. , Diamond Antony W. , Riecke Thomas V. , Major Heather L.
Published: November 2024

Rapidly warming global temperatures are having a widespread influence on wildlife communities across taxa, with southern‐edge populations often experiencing the greatest negative impacts. However, sympatric species may exhibit divergent demographic responses due to differences in life history strategies and niche separation. We used integrated population models to estimate abundance, survival, and productivity for Atlantic Puffins and Razorbills nesting at the southern edge of their breeding range in the rapidly warming Gulf of Maine. We then conducted transient life table response experiments to understand the relative importance of demographic parameters in driving population dynamics. We found that the Atlantic Puffin population remained relatively stable over the 22‐year study period, whereas the Razorbill population increased substantially. Estimates of mean survival and productivity were similar between the study species but were at the lower range of values reported in the literature across their range. Despite similar estimates of mean productivity, interannual variation in this demographic rate was much higher in Puffins than Razorbills. Overall, adult survival was found to be the primary driver of population dynamics for both species yet shows evidence of long‐term decline in Puffins. For Razorbills, we found similar evidence of long‐term decline in first‐year survival. Overall, our findings suggest that these sympatric species may be responding differently to shared environmental conditions. Given the observed long‐term decrease in Puffin adult survival, future monitoring and conservation efforts for this species should be focused outside the breeding season in critical overwintering areas and migratory locations where adult mortality is typically concentrated. Similarly, given the observed long‐term decline in Razorbill first‐year survival, additional monitoring and tracking of chicks is warranted for this species to understand where immature individuals are going after they fledge from the colony.
Global Data Compilation Across Climate Gradients Supports the Use of Common Allometric Equations for Three Transatlantic Mangrove Species
Authors: Price Charles A. , Branoff Benjamin , Cummins Karen , Kakaï Romain Glèlè , Ogurcak Danielle , Papeș Monica , Ross Michael , Whelan Kevin R. T. , Schroeder Todd A.
Published: November 2024

Predicting the distribution, structure, and biomass of mangrove forests is an area of high research interest. Across the Atlantic East Pacific biogeographic region, three species are common and abundant members of local mangrove communities; Rhizophora mangle, Avicennia germinans, and Laguncularia racemosa. Biomass prediction for these species has relied on two approaches: site‐specific allometries based on the idea that environmental/climatic differences between sites drive growth differences, or the use of common allometric equations based on the idea that site driven differences are minimal. Meta‐analyses of global compilations of interspecific plot level data (e.g., mean canopy height, stand basal area) show trends in size and structure with climatic variables, however this has not been critically evaluated across these species using empirical allometric growth functions. We compared allometric equations derived from 590 individuals within and across nine broadly distributed sites at interspecific and intraspecific levels and explored the influence of climatic variables on allometric slopes and intercepts. Assessing variables that can be used to predict biomass in the field (height, diameter at breast height (DBH), canopy spread), we find interspecific root mean squared errors similar to or smaller than most intraspecific or site‐specific equations, particularly when examining sites with sample sizes above recommended values. We also find significant effects of several climatic variables on growth allometries with the strongest effects from minimum temperature followed by precipitation seasonality. Our results suggest that while climate has a clear influence on mangrove allometric growth, common equations may have utility in biomass prediction. Future methodological improvements, particularly larger sample sizes across the entire available size range, combined with data from a broader range of growth conditions will further inform which allometric relationships exhibit the most variability within and across sites and which variables best predict mangrove biomass.
Mitochondrial Genome Comparison and Phylogenetic Variety of Four Morphologically Similar Bamboo Pests
Authors: Ying Yue , Wang Wenhao , Li Yan , Li Zhihong , Zhao Xinkang , Zhang Shouke , Shu Jinping , Shen Zhenming , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2024

Bamboo snout moths (Lepidoptera, Crambidae) comprise the four species: Eumorphobotys obscuralis, Circobotys aurealis, Demobotys pervulgalis, and Crypsiptya coclesalis. These economically important insect pests of bamboo are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. The lack of precise mitochondrial genetic data has impeded the development of effective identification techniques, accurate classification strategies, and targeted prevention and treatment strategies. In this study, we obtained the complete mitochondrial genome sequences of four bamboo snout moth species using high‐throughput sequencing. The mitogenomes were 15,103–15,349 bp in length and contained 13 protein‐coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), and a noncoding region (A + T rich element), consistent with previously studied Crambidae mitogenomes. We reconstructed the phylogenetic relationships among the four species using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood methods. The moths that fed on bamboo were well clustered in a single clade. Crypsiptya coclesalis was most closely related to D. pervulgalis, while E. obscuralis was most closely related to C. aurealis. The divergence among the main lineages of 97 Lepidoptera species was reconstructed using an uncorrelated relaxed molecular clock. Analyses of the phylogenetic relationships and divergence times showed that the evolution of lepidopteran species has been closely related to that of their hosts. The data support the development of molecular identification techniques for the four species of bamboo snout moth, and our results provide a basis for targeted control strategies.
Development of a Tetraplex Digital PCR Assay for the Detection of Invasive Snake Species in Florida, USA
Authors: Miller Melissa A. , Bloch Melody , Balaguera‐Reina Sergio A. , Olejniczak Kevin A. , Fussell Persaud Cynthia A. , Helmick Ericka E. , Mazzotti Frank J. , Bahder Brian W.
Published: November 2024

Florida, USA is a hotspot of biological invasions with over 500 non‐native species reported. Reptiles encompass most of the non‐native wildlife with over 50 species established, many of which are sympatric and are identified as invasive due to their impacts to the environment, economy, and human health and safety. Reports of new non‐native reptiles occur, and many established non‐native reptiles continue to expand their ranges in Florida, increasing the need for multitaxa detection and monitoring capabilities. Invasive constrictor snakes are a primary focus of management efforts due to life history traits that favor successful establishment and dispersal in Florida as well as their impacts to native wildlife and Everglades restoration efforts. While traditional survey methods that rely on visual detections fail to reliably detect invasive constrictors, environmental DNA (eDNA) has proven to be a promising method for detection of cryptic and rare species across the landscape. To address emerging needs for multispecies detection and monitoring in Florida, we developed the first tetraplex dPCR assay designed for detection of four species of invasive constrictor snakes, including Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus), northern African pythons (P. sebae), boa constrictors (Boa constrictor), and rainbow boas (Epicrates cenchria). In this tetraplex assay, no cross‐amplification across species was documented. This assay serves as a valuable tool for faster and more accurate monitoring efforts of these invasive species in South Florida. Additionally, eDNA samples comprised of soil and water both tested positive for Burmese python DNA under controlled and semicontrolled conditions with DNA being detectable up to 2‐weeks post removal in soil samples. Water samples yielded positive detection as quickly as 5 min after exposure to the organism. These data highlight the utility and sensitivity of this protocol for eDNA monitoring.
THz‐EPR‐Based Direct Spectroscopic Determination of the Anisotropy Barrier of a Heteroleptic Bis‐Chelate Cobalt(II) Complex with Bis(sulfonamido)benzene Ligand and its Dynamic Magnetic Properties
Authors: Pohle Maximilian H. , Konrad Anne , Görls Helmar , Plass Winfried
Published: November 2024

A new mononuclear, four‐coordinate heteroleptic cobalt(II) complex 1 was synthesised utilising N,N′‐1,2‐Phenylenebis‐(4‐methylbenzenesulfonamide) and 6,6′‐Dimethyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine as ligands and structurally characterised. Magnetic susceptibility and magnetisation measurements, along with ab initio calculations, revealed a large easy‐axis type magnetic anisotropy of the cobalt(II) centre. Frequency‐dependent ac susceptibility measurements revealed out‐of‐phase signals, indicating a slow relaxation of magnetisation, even in the absence of an additional static magnetic field. The corresponding relaxation behaviour can be attributed to a combination of Orbach and phonon‐assisted processes within the observable temperature range. Using FD‐FT THz‐EPR spectroscopy, the magnetic anisotropy barrier was determined to be unexpectedly large with a value of 146.4 
. The deviation from the expected barrier, based on correlations with the elongation parameter
, is attributed to the charge distribution in the coordination environment.
Genetic neonatal seizures in the neonatal intensive care unit: Diagnostic and prognostic implications for three families
Authors: Chen Rongrong , Wu Huiming , Lu Yi , Yin Honggang , Wang Xueqian , Zhang Xiaohua
Published: November 2024

Objective

We investigated neonatal seizures in three probands admitted to the neonatal intensive care units and their affected family members.

Methods

Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed along with confirmation by Sanger sequencing and segregation analysis. Copy number variant (CNV) analysis was also conducted. Neuroimaging, electroencephalography, and metabolic analysis revealed clinical phenotypes.

Results

Bi‐allelic variants c.1025T>C and c.1150G>A in MOCS1 were found in twin girls with molybdenum cofactor deficiency. The c.1025T>C variant was novel. A c.877C>T variant in KCNQ2 co‐segregated with seizures in a family. A de novo 6.25 Mb duplication on 2q24.3 encompassing SCN1A, SCN2A, and SCN3A was identified in a proband who demonstrated normal development without seizures on follow‐up.

Significance

WES facilitated the molecular diagnosis of neonatal seizures in the study participants. Variants in the KCNQ2 and MOCS1 genes were classified as likely pathogenic based on our findings. The individual with a duplication of the sodium channel gene cluster on 2q24.3 exhibited additional phenotypes. Our investigation expanded the genotype–phenotype spectrum.
Symptomatic vigabatrin‐associated MRI toxicity is associated with simultaneous hormonal therapy among patients with infantile spasms
Authors: Sathe Rujuta , Shrestha Gyaneshwar , Terango Aria , Tabibzadeh David , Rajaraman Rajsekar R. , Nariai Hiroki , Hussain Shaun A.
Published: November 2024

Vigabatrin‐associated brain abnormalities on MRI (VABAM) are observed in approximately 20% of children who receive vigabatrin for treatment of infantile epileptic spasms syndrome. Although usually reversible and asymptomatic, VABAM is occasionally symptomatic. Whereas asymptomatic VABAM appears to be dose‐dependent, symptomatic VABAM is possibly associated with co‐administration of vigabatrin and hormonal therapy (i.e., corticosteroids or adrenocorticotropic hormone). With retrospective study of a cohort of vigabatrin‐treated children, we evaluated candidate risk factors for VABAM. Among 108 children with detailed vigabatrin exposure data, we identified VABAM in 17 children (11 symptomatic). Symptomatic VABAM was strongly associated with simultaneous exposure to hormonal therapy (p = 0.001). Neither symptomatic nor asymptomatic VABAM were associated with peak vigabatrin dose. Although these data support the hypothesis that symptomatic VABAM risk is higher with coadministration of vigabatrin and hormonal therapy, this study does not establish a causal link. Further study is warranted to better understand the pathogenesis of VABAM and devise strategies to mitigate risk. Clinicians should carefully weigh the potential risk of symptomatic vigabatrin toxicity against the known benefit of vigabatrin and hormonal therapy coadministration.

Plain Language Summary

Several case reports suggest that the combination of vigabatrin and hormonal therapy for treatment of infantile spasms may provoke an adverse reaction known as symptomatic vigabatrin MRI toxicity (sVABAM, which includes characteristic changes on MRI images and associated symptoms). In response to these reports, we studied a large single‐center cohort of children with infantile spasms and determined that combination therapy is indeed statistically associated with sVABAM. However, we have not proven that combination therapy actually causes sVABAM. Further study is needed to clarify the nature of sVABAM and risk factors thereof.
Predicting flow resistance in rough‐bed rivers from topographic roughness: Review and open questions
Authors: Ferguson Robert I. , Hardy Richard J. , Hodge Rebecca A. , Houseago Robert C. , Yager Elowyn M. , Yamasaki Taís N.
Published: November 2024

Most ways of predicting flow resistance in shallow rivers with a partial or complete cover of coarse sediment use a bed‐sediment grain diameter as a roughness length scale. However, beds with the same grain size distribution differ in roughness and flow resistance depending on how the larger grains are arranged, the nature of any bedforms and the possible complications of bedrock or rough banks. This has led to interest in predicting flow resistance using metrics of the topographic roughness of the bed. Some researchers have used the standard deviation of bed elevation as a roughness length scale. An alternative for channels containing boulders is to regard the bed as an array of large roughness elements. Fluvial research to date using these two approaches is limited and inconclusive. We review potentially relevant findings from the much more extensive literature in boundary‐layer meteorology and various branches of engineering and note links between the distribution‐statistics and element‐array approaches. The skewness of the elevation distribution is widely seen as important but it is unclear how best to use it for flow prediction. Other open questions include the scale dependence of topographic metrics, and what type of flow resistance equation to use them in. Calibration and testing of new prediction methods require flow data from reaches with known roughness statistics. This need should be met partly by measurements at field sites or in flume models of them, but also by flume experiments and numerical simulations using synthetic roughness.
Controls on glacial kettle morphology
Authors: Prescott Jillian S. , Zoet Lucas K. , Hansen Dougal D. , Penprase Shanti B. , Rawling J. Elmo
Published: November 2024

Glacial kettles are surficial depressions that form in formerly glaciated terrain when buried stagnant ice melts within pro‐glacial sediments, often deposited by meltwater streams. Kettles, like other glacial landforms, provide insight into the impact of climate on landscape evolution, such as the extent and timing of glaciations. The geometry of kettle features is variable, but existing theory does not explain the range of observed morphologies. Our study aims to establish a quantitative relationship between the depth of ice burial and the resulting morphology of terrain collapse in kettle depressions. To do so, we simulated kettle formation in the laboratory by burying ice spheres of four sizes in well‐sorted coarse sand at four different depths. As the spheres melt at room temperature, a glacial kettle analog forms at the surface. We scanned the resulting kettle topography with a portable LiDAR scanner to produce 3D digital elevation models of each depression, from which we measured each depression's depth and width and, in one instance, the time series of kettle formation. Using this data, we quantified the relationship between the sphere diameter, burial depth and resulting dimensions of the kettle by developing a set of equations, which we then applied to full‐scale features. Our results indicate that ice burial deeper than one sphere diameter corresponds to a decrease in depression depth and an increase in depression width. This application offers insight into the interdependence of ice burial depth and kettle geometry.
Assessing open‐access digital elevation models for hydrological applications in a large scale plain: Drainage networks, shallow water bodies and vertical accuracy
Authors: Golin Ailé Selenne , Páez Campos Hugo Ramiro , Guevara Ochoa Cristian , Dávila Claudia Fernanda , Vives Luis Sebastián
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated six open‐access digital elevation models (DEMs) for the Del Azul Creek Basin in the Argentine Chaco‐Pampean Plain: Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, Advanced Land Observing Satellite Phased Array L‐Band Synthetic Aperture Radar, TerraSAR‐X Add‐On for Digital Elevation Measurements (TanDEM‐X), NASADEM Global DEM, Forest and Building height biases were removed from Copernicus GLO 30 DEM V1‐0 (FABDEM), and TanDEM‐X 30 m Edited DEM (EDEM). Statistical metrics were calculated for (i) residuals between DEMs and the Ice, Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite‐2 (ICESat‐2); (ii) the minimum distance between DEM‐derived drainage networks and those from the Buenos Aires Provincial Water Authority; and (iii) DEM‐derived slopes in shallow water bodies compared with the Joint Research Centre's Global Surface Water Mapping product. Analyses were performed for four elevation and seven slope bands. TanDEM‐X had the smallest errors compared to ICESat‐2 (median 0.19 m, NMAD 0.38 m), followed by FABDEM (median 0.31 m, NMAD 0.23 m). EDEM performed best in drainage networks (median 99.45 m, NMAD 117.16 m), followed by FABDEM. In general, the vertical error increased with elevation and the accuracy of the drainage network estimates improved. The vertical accuracy decreased with steeper slopes, with FABDEM performing the best across all slope ranges. FABDEM exhibited the best performance in determining seasonally dispersed shallow water bodies, demonstrating its overall usefulness for hydrological applications in large‐scale plains characterized by aeolian geoforms of lowland accumulation and erosion. Assessing freely available products provides valuable resources for researchers and professionals and can guide decision making for managing hydrological resources, including flood risk and infrastructure development.