bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depolymerization of Waste Polycarbonates to Value‐Added Products
Authors: Padhi Ganeshdev , Pansare Vaibhav Ramachandra , Bajpai Priyam , Krishna Gamidi Rama , Vanka Kumar , Barsu Nagaraju
Published: August 2024

Additive free aminolysis method developed for the depolymerization/upcycling of polycarbonates. We report here chemical recycling of polycarbonate under ambient conditions to get its monomer bisphenol A, monoaminocarbamate and biscarbamates in 1 : 2 : 1 ratio respectively. By employing the secondary amine as the aminating reagent, facilitates the depolymerization to work under additive/catalyst free conditions. The developed method deals with depolymerization of waste polycarbonates and works even with late‐stage amine derivatives such as amoxapine and desloratadine which are drugs molecules known to treat neurotic disorders and allergies respectively. The reaction can be scaled up and works with similar efficacy which depicts the efficiency of the depolymerization of wasteend‐of‐life polycarbonate plastic waste. The biscarbamate and bisphenol‐A was further subjected for the post functionalization to obtain amides and phenol in good yields.
Enzymatic Degradation of PFAS: Current Status and Ongoing Challenges
Authors: Harris Benjamin A. , Zhou Jinpeng , Clarke Bradley O. , Leung Ivanhoe K. H.
Published: August 2024

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are often considered the quintessential example of industrial chemical pollution – they are toxic and ubiquitous environmental contaminants that are extremely difficult to degrade. There has been a large research focus on the development of effective and renewable degradation technologies. In comparison to traditional pollutant degradation techniques, such as advanced oxidation processes and electrochemistry, degradation of PFAS using extracellular enzymes offers an eco‐friendly solution as enzymes are biodegradable, recyclable and have low energy and chemical requirements. This review outlines the current understanding of extracellular enzymatic degradation of PFAS with a focus on reported results and proposed degradation mechanisms. More importantly, this review highlights limitations that hinder the application of enzymes for PFAS degradation and proposes critical future research that is needed to improve the applicability of this promising remediation strategy.
Glycerol Carbonate and Solketal Carbonate as Circular Economy Bricks for Supercapacitors and Potassium Batteries
Authors: Prete Prisco , Trano Sabrina , Zaccagnini Pietro , Fagiolari Lucia , Amici Julia , Lamberti Andrea , Proto Antonio , Bella Federico , Cucciniello Raffaele
Published: August 2024

Considering the worldwide market of batteries and supercapacitors, the (partial or total) replacement of conventional fossil‐derived carbonates with bio‐based ones in electrolyte formulations would allow the production of safer and more sustainable devices. In this work, embracing the 7th principle of green chemistry, glycerol derivatives (namely glycerol carbonate and solketal carbonate) are tested as solvents and additives for electrolyte formulations. Glycerol carbonate is innovatively employed as promising electrolyte solvent for electric double‐layer capacitors with excellent performances. On the other hand, a solketal carbonate‐laden liquid electrolyte is investigated for potassium‐based batteries, showing a rather stable electrochemical behaviour and performance close to those of commercial oil‐derived alternatives.
Input–output waveform engineered inverse Class F power amplifiers with high efficiency
Authors: Zhu Zheming , Cheng Zhiqun , Jia Minshi , Wang Kun , Li Bingxin , Yang Zhenghao , Zhong Baoquan
Published: August 2024

This paper studies the influence of the gate voltage of the power amplifier (PA) on the drain current and efficiency. This study proposes a theory of controlling input non‐linearity to improve the efficiency of PAs. The theoretical efficiency of the inverse Class F PA that controls the input nonlinearity is within the range of 77% to 97%. A new design method for the inverse Class F PA reconstructs the design of the load admittance space into a region instead of a point. To verify the validity of the proposed theory, an inverse Class F PA is designed and fabricated using a commercial 10 W GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT). Results of the measurement show a high drain efficiency (DE) of 78.5%, an output power of 41.6 dBm, and a large signal gain of 12.1 dB at 1.5 GHz. The overall PA's size is controlled at 80*50 .
Quantitative analysis of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in dried blood spot from mountain ultra‐trail runners. Contribution of pharmacokinetic models for the interpretation of the results
Authors: Mashal Mohammad Shafiq , Guitton Jérôme , Sallet Pierre , Bourguignon Laurent , Machon Christelle
Published: August 2024

Monitoring of drug use in athletes is of interest both for health and competition‐related issues. Considering the advantages of Dried Blood Sampling (low invasiveness, easy sampling, long term storage), we have validated a quantitative LC–MS/HRMS method for the screening of 16 nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. For all drugs, accuracy and imprecision were within 15% for the 3 levels of quality control and lower than 20% for the lower limit of quantification. Application was performed from samples obtained for Ultra‐Trail du Mont‐Blanc® 2021 and 2022. A focus on ibuprofen and its metabolites (hydroxyibuprofen, carboxyibuprofen, ibuprofen glucuronide and hydroxyibuprofen glucuronide) was made because the results showed that it was the most detected nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug. Further, an interpretation of the ibuprofen concentrations was proposed either from experimental data obtained after an intake of ibuprofen by 10 control subjects, or from a pharmacokinetic modelling and simulations. Depending on the analytical performances of the method, we proposed possible detection windows for ibuprofen in runners. The pharmacokinetic model made it possible to consider two scenarios with and without modification of the total clearance of ibuprofen linked to a modification of the pharmacokinetics of the drugs due to the practice of a long and intense physical activity.
Interlaboratory comparison of phosphatidylethanol in dried blood spots using different sampling devices
Authors: Bantle Matthias , Stöth Frederike , Weinmann Wolfgang , Luginbühl Marc
Published: August 2024

Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) has become an important marker to assess drinking behaviour and monitor abstinence. Despite its increasing use, knowledge on robustness and standardization and comparability of methods and results are still limited. In 2022, the first international consensus for the use of PEth and its interpretation was published. To establish an experience‐based foundation for further harmonization, three rounds of interlaboratory comparison using microsamples were conducted. Participating laboratories sent their sampling devices to the laboratory of Forensic Toxicology at the University of Bern, where for each round, four different authentic blood samples were applied to the devices and sent back. The PEth 16:0/18:1 target concentrations covered a range between 16 and 474 ng/mL (0.023 and 0.676 μmol/L, respectively) and included sample concentrations close to the decision limits of 20 and 200 ng/mL (0.025 and 0.28 μmol/L, respectively). Evaluation of the results based on guidelines by Horwitz and the Society of Toxicological and Forensic Chemistry (GTFCh) showed that 73% of all participating laboratories quantified and reported all samples (N = 4 for each round) within the acceptable limits. More than 90% quantified and reported at least one sample within the acceptable limits.
Predicting habitat suitability of the critically endangered Be'er Sheva fringe‐fingered lizard
Authors: Horesh Sefi J. A. , Ovadia Ofer
Published: August 2024

Anthropogenic changes, such as land use, are the main drivers causing climate change and biodiversity loss, with hundreds of thousands of species lacking sufficient habitats for their populations to persist and likely to go extinct within decades. Endemic species are more susceptible to habitat changes and are at the forefront of the biodiversity crisis. We used species distribution models to generate a relative habitat suitability map and identified the habitat requirements of the critically endangered and endemic Be'er Sheva fringe‐fingered lizard (Acanthodactylus beershebensis). The model showed that the species' suitable habitats are associated with arid loess plains characterized by scattered, low vegetation cover, primarily on north‐facing aspects, suggesting that these species‐specific habitat requirements limit its distribution. The size of the potentially suitable area within the species' historical range is 1350.73 km2. However, anthropogenic changes decreased the remaining suitable habitat to 995.04 km2. Most of this area is unprotected and at risk of further adverse anthropogenic effects. Only 91.72 km2 of this area is protected by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, and 587.11 km2 may be considered indirectly protected because it is within military firing zones. Our study is the first attempt to map the remaining suitable habitat of A. beershebensis based on the results of a species distribution model. The results of this model can assist in prioritizing the protection of areas needed for the conservation of this critically endangered and endemic lizard species.
Bat mating systems—A review and recategorisation
Authors: Dorrestein Annabel , Westcott David , Martin John M. , Phalen David , Rose Karrie , Welbergen Justin A.
Published: August 2024

Mating systems, influenced by the social and ecological environment and individual attributes, are fundamental components of animal social organisation, impacting behaviour, animal distribution, ecosystem processes, individual reproductive success, and population dynamics. Bats are of particular interest for studies of mating systems as they are thought to exhibit a greater diversity in mating systems than any other mammalian order, and thus make great models for improving our fundamental understanding of causes and consequences of social organisation. Here, we review the current knowledge of bat mating systems. Our analyses show that research on bat mating systems has not kept pace with research on bats in general and that traditional typologies do not accommodate the mating system of several species. Therefore, we propose an alternative, functional framework to categorise mating systems of bats and by extension of other taxa. We argue that mating systems can be classified according to a male reproductive skew continuum, with an increasing skew from monogamy to true lekking. We include an additional category of lek‐like mating system along the continuum to account for previous trans‐categorical cases that have the appearance of resource defence but are functionally akin to a lek. The new framework has a total of seven categories: promiscuity, monogamy, female defence polygyny, resource defence polygyny, a lek‐like mating system, exploded classical lek, and clustered classical lek. Applying this framework to bats reveals that lek mating systems are more prevalent in bats than previously recognised. It is our aim that this review and the proposed framework provide a greater understanding of bat mating systems particularly and provoke research into the factors that shape mating systems across animal taxa more generally.
Playing the CITES game: Lessons on global conservation governance from African megafauna
Authors: 't Sas‐Rolfes Michael , Challender Daniel W. S. , Wainwright Laurence
Published: August 2024

Growing awareness and concern over environmental issues has been accompanied by a proliferation of international environmental agreements during the last half‐century. Among these, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), stands out as one of the oldest and strongest influences on global biodiversity conservation policy. However, the effectiveness of CITES has been questioned—for various reasons and from various quarters—with a range of differing opinions. To provide further insight on this issue we drew from and built upon recent advances in the environmental governance literature to develop an approach to analysing how the CITES‐centred wildlife trading regime influences actor behaviour. After developing a rule‐categorised framework to analyse the structure of the treaty, we conducted dynamic analysis of actor behaviour using case study material on CITES‐listed African megafauna species (elephants, rhinoceroses, and lions), examining recent developments over a five‐year period (2016–2020). Drawing on this material, we further applied institutional diagnostics to gain insight into the conservation effectiveness of the CITES regime. Our analysis of these case studies suggests that CITES can be gamed by special interest groups and that its institutional design facilitates the evolution of an international prohibition regime. Our research produces novel insights into the operation of this process and raises concerns about consequences for African biodiversity conservation. We conclude with recommendations for wildlife trade policy reform and further research.
Biocrust as a surface protection of erodible nebkhas
Authors: Tan Ning‐Jing , Luo Xiao‐Mei , Wang Zhen‐Ting
Published: August 2024

Since the timescale of a nebkha from the initial formation to the eventual destruction might be 1 to 200 years, little is known about the whole evolutionary path. In the phase of erosion and deflation, nebkhas are usually one source of aeolian sand and dust. Biocrust, a common living cover in arid and semiarid regions, could influence dune dynamic. In this study, the shear strength and hardness of the windward slope surface of erodible nebkhas are measured in the upwind margin of the Minqin oasis, China. It is found that both the shear strength and hardness of topsoil are commonly larger than these under the biocrust layer. From the force‐balance equation about the vane shear test, a novel expression for the shear strength of biocrust is derived. The field experiment in the windy season of 2023 shows that the biocrust layer of topsoil can effectively increase the resistance of nebkha surface against wind erosion. The relative larger strength and the self‐repair function of biocrust supported by the local non‐rain water are two main reasons the erodible nebkhas can exist for decades.
Validation of cubic EoS mixing rules and multi‐fluid helmholtz energy approximation EoS for the phase behaviour modelling of CO2‐rich binary mixtures at low temperatures
Authors: Okoro Franklin , Chapoy Antonin , Ahmadi Pezhman , Burgass Rod
Published: August 2024

The transportation of CO2 from the capture site to the storage location is a crucial phase in carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) process. For offshore operations, ship transportation is considered a viable alternative, and this would entail operations at low temperatures (down to 223.15 K). A review of the literature revealed that there is limited experimental data on CO2‐rich systems at low temperatures, thus, the need to investigate the phase behaviour of CO2‐rich systems at these conditions. This study validated and compared the accuracies of Peng–Robinson (PR) equation of state (EoS) with three different mixing rules (the classical with original and adjusted binary interaction parameters, the Wong–Sandler, and the Orbey–Wong–Sandler mixing rules) against the multi‐fluid helmholtz energy approximation (MFHEA ‐ with original and adjusted binary‐specific reducing parameters) EoS in the prediction of bubble points of CO2‐rich binary systems (CO2‐CH4, CO2–O2, CO2–Ar, and CO2–N2) for CCUS applications. The experimental studies used for the validation of the models were conducted at low temperatures (228.15–273.15 K with overall uncertainties of 0.14 K) and for five different CO2 mole ratios (99.5, 99, 98.5, 98 and 95% with overall uncertainties of 0.032%) using the constant composition expansion method. The overall uncertainty of the pressure measurements was 0.03 MPa. From the study, it was observed that there was a significant effect of binary interaction parameters (BIP) adjustment on the performance of PR‐EoS with classical mixing rule, especially for the CO2–N2 system. For all the systems, the predictions of PR‐EoS with the classical mixing rules and the adjusted BIPs were the most accurate in terms of the average absolute deviations from the experimental data. The model also predicted the literature data well in comparison with the other models (with less than 5% deviations for all the data points). Further analysis also proved that the model dew point predictions were in reasonable agreement with the available literature data at the considered conditions. As a result, the model could be adopted to fill the existing knowledge gaps of the studied systems at conditions (143.15–223.15 K) where experimental studies were not feasible. © 2024 The Author(s). Greenhouse Gases: Science and Technology published by Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Patented innovation and left‐tail risk: Evidence from China
Authors: Jia Shaoqing , Yang Liuyong , Zhou Fangzhao , Li Jiayao , Qi Yawei
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of patented innovation on the left‐tail risk of stock price, measured as the 1% value at risk (VaR) and expected shortfall (ES). Using the sample of all listed firms in the Chinese A‐share market from 2007 to 2020, we find that the quantity and quality of patents significantly decrease left‐tail risk. Second, the effect is more pronounced for firms in regions with patent pledge systems or stronger intellectual property rights protection. Short‐selling constraints and the engagement of retail investors hinder patented innovation from reducing left‐tail risk. Third, we further explore the mechanisms and find that patented innovation enhances financial performance, mitigates financial constraints, and attracts long‐term institutional investors, thereby decreasing left‐tail risk.
Establishment of a diagnostic model for urinary calculi in pregnant women: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sun Ruixue , Xu Zhikai , Wu Lifeng , Chen Lei , Yan Shaorong , Lin Yuzhan
Published: August 2024

Objective

The diagnosis of symptomatic urinary stones during pregnancy is challenging; ultrasonography has a low specificity and sensitivity for diagnosing urinary stones. This study aimed to develop a clinical diagnostic model to assist clinicians in distinguishing symptomatic urinary stones in pregnant women.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we consecutively collected clinical data from pregnant women who presented with acute abdominal, lumbar, and lumbar and abdominal pain at the emergency department of our hospital between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019. To distinguish patients with urinary calculi from those without, we reviewed the follow‐up records within 2 weeks post‐consultation, ultrasonography results within 2 weeks, or self‐reports of stone passage within 2 weeks. We selected risk factors from the baseline clinical and laboratory data of patients to establish a diagnostic model.

Results

Of the total patients included in the study, 105 patients were diagnosed as having symptomatic urinary stones and 126 were determined to have abdominal pain for reasons other than urinary stones. The initial model had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.9966. The No‐Lab Model had an AUC of 0.9856. The Lab Model had an AUC of 0.832. The Stone Model had an AUC of 0.9952. The simplified Stone Model did not show a decrease in discriminative ability.

Conclusion

Of the four diagnostic models that we established for preliminary diagnosis of symptomatic urinary tract stones in pregnant women, the simplified Stone Model demonstrated excellent performance. Users can scan quick response codes to access web‐based diagnostic model interfaces, facilitating easy clinical operation.
Analyzing the performance of ChatGPT in answering inquiries about cervical cancer
Authors: Yurtcu Engin , Ozvural Seyfettin , Keyif Betul
Published: August 2024

Objective

To analyze the knowledge of ChatGPT about cervical cancer (CC).

Methods

Official websites of professional health institutes, and websites created by patients and charities underwent strict screening. Using CC‐related keywords, common inquiries by the public and comments about CC were searched in social media applications with these data, a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) was prepared. When preparing question about CC, the European Society of Gynecological Oncology (ESGO), European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO), and European Society of Pathology (ESP) guidelines were used. The answers given by ChatGPT were scored according to the Global Quality Score (GQS).

Results

When all ChatGPT answers to FAQs about CC were evaluated with regard to GQS, 68 ChatGPT answers were classified as score 5, and none of ChatGPT answers for FAQs were scored as 2 or 1. Moreover, ChatGPT answered 33 of 53 (62.3%) CC‐related questions based on ESGO, ESTRO, and ESP guidelines with completely accurate and satisfactory responses (GQS 5). In addition, eight answers (15.1%), seven answers (13.2%), four answers (7.5%), and one answer (1.9%) were categorized as GQS 4, GQS 3, GQS 2, and GQS 1, respectively. The reproducibility rate of ChatGPT answers about CC‐related FAQs and responses about those guideline‐based questions was 93.2% and 88.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

ChatGPT had an accurate and satisfactory response rate for FAQs about CC with regards to GQS. However, the accuracy and quality of ChatGPT answers significantly decreased for questions based on guidelines.
Taxonomic implications of trichome complements to Vernonia (Compositae) in India
Authors: Sahu T. R.
Published: August 2024

The trichome complements of 20 tax a of Vernonia (Compositae. Vernonicae) are studied for their ontogeny, structure, and organography distribution. In all twenty trichome types i.e., thirteen non glandular and seven glandular hairs are observed on vegetative parts whereas glandular hairs on floral parts. Conical flagellate, two armed with biseriate stalk, flagellate glandular and bicelled glandular hairs are the new forms for the family. Frequency distribution of achenial hair is found highest (57%) amongst all the trichome observed. All the trichome types originate from a single papillate epidermal cell and they are classified on the basis of form, structure and contents. Examination of the paired affinity indexes of the trichome complement indicate several natural groupings in the studied species of Vernonia. The use of the trichome complement as an aid to establishing relationships in Vernonia is also discussed.
Taxonomic revision of the subtribe Rhipsalinae Britt, et Rose, emend. F. Buxb. (Cactaceae — Cereoideae)
Authors: Volgin S. A.
Published: August 2024

Taxonomic relations within the group of Cactaceae genera united under the subtribe Rhipsalinae Britt. et Rose emend. F. Buxb. have been examinated. The structure of the flower and seed in 20 representatives of the group shows the unnaturalness of the F. Buxbaum's (1958) taxonomic treatment of the subtribe. It must lx; raise into the rank of the tribe Rhipsalideae DC. emend. Volgin. A now classification of the tribe Rhipsalideae have been proposed in which 3 subtribes are established: Pfeifferinae Volgin subtr. nov. is the most primitive one; Rhipsalinae Britt. et Rose emend. Volgin and Schlumbergerinae Volgin subtr. nov. corresponding with two main evolutionary tranks within the tribe.
New nomenclatural combinations and three new varieties in the genus Biscutella L. (Cruciferae)
Authors: Olowokudejo J. Dele
Published: August 2024

The genus Biscutella L. has been studied taxonomically throughout its geographic ranges. Three new varieties are described and ten new combinations are made.
Les abris humides sous roches au Mali central
Authors: Aberlin J.‐P.
Published: August 2024

Resumé

Due association nouvelle pour le Mali control, à: Begonia rostrata (Hook. f.) Welw. et Arthraxon lancifolius (Trin.) Hochst. qui colonise les abris sous roches humides de la zone de Katibougou, est décrite. Elle représente une forme appauvrie du groupement homologue décrit par Monod à Bamako, à un latitude inférieure.
Taxonomic significance of stomatal complex in the Portulacaceae
Authors: Nyananyo Bio Louis
Published: August 2024

The stomatal complex of 60 species in 19 genera of the family Portulacaceae have been investigated. Stomata are present on both the abaxial and adaxial surfaces of the leaf in all the species. Four types of subsidiary cells have been recorded: anomocytic. paracytic, tetracytic and parallelocytic. All the genera with anomocytic subsidiary cells, Lewisia Pursh, Montia L. and Wangerinia Franz are herbaceous. Majority of the genera have parallelocytic subsidiary cells. In Calandrinia H. B. & K. and Talinella Bâillon, the difference in subsidiary cell types aid in the delimitation of the genus into groups. The uniformity in subsidiary cell types in Anacampseros L. support its naturalness.
Die Lebermoosgattung Notoscyphus fossil in Europa
Authors: Grolle Riclef
Published: August 2024

Die Lebermoosgattung Notoscyphus Mitt. (Jungermanniaceae), deren rezentes Areal sich auf feuchtere Teile der Tropen und Subtropen in Asien, Ozeanien und Afrika beschränkt, wird im Unteren Miozän von Mitteleuropa als Einschluß in Bitterfelder Bernstein nachgewiesen. Die Bernstein‐Pflanze wird beschrieben und abgebildet. Sie wird als artidentisch mit dem rezenten N. lutescens (Lehm. et Lindenb.) Mitt. sensu amplo angesehen. Diese Art hat demzufolge ein Mindestalter von 22 Millionen Jahren. Ihr rezentes und fossiles Areal wird in einer Karte dargestellt.
Eine Methodik zur quantitativen Beschreibung der Phytozönose terrestrischer Ökosysteme (phytozönotische Aufnahme): Teil I. Zielstellung, Beschreibung der Raumstruktur
Authors: Kuschka V.
Published: August 2024

Ziel dieser Arbeiten ist es, eine Methodik zur quantitativen Beschreibung der Phytozönose als funktionalem Bestandteil terrestrischer Ökosysteme in ihrer konkreten Erscheinungsweise zu geben. Besondere Bedeutung kommt dieser Aufgabe dadurch zu, daß die Phytozönose im Stoff‐ und Energiewechselgefüge des Ökosystems eine primäre Rolle spielt.

In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden vorwiegend Möglichkeiten der quantitativen Beschreibung der vertikalen und horizontalen Raumstruktur diskutiert. Die vertikale Raumstruktur ist am besten durch ein Deckungs‐Höhen‐Profil darstellbar. Mit diesem Profil wird auch die Abgrenzung der Hauptstraten der Phytozönose möglich. Die Methode der Aufstellung eines solchen Profils, einschließlich einer Formel zur Bildung von Höhenklassen, wird vorgestellt.

Die Probleme der Anwendung von Frequenz, Soziabilität, Dispersionskoeffizient, Ballungsindex und Morisita‐Index zur Beschreibung der horizontalen Verteilung von Pflanzenarten werden diskutiert. Als alternative Größen werden die “Uniformitäts‐Frequenz” (fU) zur Beschreibung der Verteilung einzelner Pflanzenarten und die “Gewogene Uniformitäts‐Frequenz” (FU) zur Beschreibung der Homogenität der “Stratophytozönose” eingeführt.
Taxonomy of the Endemic African Genera of the Portulacacea (Centrospermae)
Authors: Nyananyo B. L.
Published: August 2024

The family Portulacaceae is represented in Africa (including Madagascar) by eight genera: Anacampseros L., Calyptrotheca Gilg, Ceraria Pearson & Stephens, Montia L., Portulaca L., Portulacaria Jacquin, Talinella Baillon and Talinum Adanson. Four of these, Calyptrotheca, Ceraria, Portulacaria and Talinella which amongst them have 12 species are, however, endemic to Africa. The generic limits of two of these endemics: Ceraria and Portulacaria has been ill defined while the taxonomy of all four genera is lacking in the literature. The generic limits of Ceraria and Portulacaria, and a contribution to the taxonomy of all four genera is evaluated on the basis of comparative palynology. leaf flavonoids, stomata, anatomy and cytology. A key to the genera is provided. Chromosome counts of 2n = 48, 48 and 72 are provided for Ceraria namaquensis, C. pygmaea and C. fruticulosa and 2n = 44 for Portulacaria afra respectively.
Systematic and Comparative value of Fruit Architecture in Trachyspermum Species
Authors: Dave Y. S. , Menon A. R. S.
Published: August 2024

The paper describes the fruit architecture of three species of Trachyspermum in relation to its taxonomic significance. Emergences in the form of warty trichomes are plenty on the fruits of T. ammi and T. stictocarpum. The pericarp which varies in thickness can be differentiated into epicarp, mesocarp and endocarp. A chloren‐chymatous hypodermis is present in T. roxburghiamum. Epicarp and the endocarp show variation in number of layers in the different species. The mesocarp embeds in it the oil canals and the vascular bundles. These finer details of the pericarp can be used for a taxonomic delimitation at the specific level
Histomorphological Studies in some Aristolochiaceae
Authors: Inamdar J. A. , Avita Sr. , Mohan J. S. S.
Published: August 2024

The epidermal structure, structure and ontogeny of stomata in vegetative and floral organs, leaf venation and internodal vessel elements of six species of Aristolochiaceae arc presented. Four types of trichomes and secretory cells are noticed. The mature stomata are anomocytic, paracytic and with a single subsidiary cell. The ontogeny of anomocytic stomata is perigenous that of stomata with a single subsidiary cell is mesogenous, while that of paracytic type is mesogenous or mesoperigenous (on pericarp only). Leaf venation pattern conforms to campylodromous or acrodromous imperfect basal type. The vessel elements size is categorized into long, medium and short. The length and diameter and shape may vary from species to species.
Composition of e‐cigarette aerosols: A review and risk assessment of selected compounds
Authors: Heywood Jonathan , Abele Grayson , Langenbach Blake , Litvin Sydney , Smallets Sarah , Paustenbach Dennis
Published: August 2024

The potential harms and benefits of e‐cigarettes, or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), have received significant attention from public health and regulatory communities. Such products may provide a reduced risk means of nicotine delivery for combustible cigarette smokers while being inappropriately appealing to nicotine naive youth. Numerous authors have examined the chemical complexity of aerosols from various open‐ and closed‐system ENDS. This body of literature is reviewed here, with the risks of ENDS aerosol exposure among users evaluated with a margin of exposure (MoE) approach for two non‐carcinogens (methylglyoxal, butyraldehyde) and a cancer risk analysis for the carcinogen N‐nitrosonornicotine (NNN). We identified 96 relevant papers, including 17, 13, and 5 reporting data for methylglyoxal, butyraldehyde, and NNN, respectively. Using low‐end (minimum aerosol concentration, low ENDS use) and high‐end (maximum aerosol concentration, high ENDS use) assumptions, estimated doses for methylglyoxal (1.78 × 10−3–135 μg/kg‐bw/day) and butyraldehyde (1.9 × 10−4–66.54 μg/kg‐bw/day) corresponded to MoEs of 227–17,200,000 and 271–280,000,000, respectively, using identified points of departure (PoDs). Doses of 9.90 × 10−6–1.99 × 10−4 μg/kg‐bw/day NNN corresponded to 1.4–28 surplus cancers per 100,000 ENDS users, relative to a NNN‐attributable surplus of 7440 per 100,000 cigarette smokers. It was concluded that methylglyoxal and butyraldehyde in ENDS aerosols, while not innocuous, did not present a significant risk of irritant effects among ENDS users. The carcinogenic risks of NNN in ENDS aerosols were reduced, but not eliminated, relative to concentrations reported in combustible cigarette smoke.
Preclinical evaluation of mucogingival defect treatment using piscine membranes: An in vivo assessment of wound healing
Authors: Sheinberg Derek S. , Almada Ricky , Parra Marcelo , Slavin Blaire V. , Mirsky Nicholas A. , Nayak Vasudev Vivekanand , Tovar Nick , Witek Lukasz , Coelho Paulo G.
Published: August 2024

Periodontitis is a bacteria‐induced chronic inflammatory disease characterized by degradation of the supporting tissue and bone in the oral cavity. Treatment modalities seek to facilitate periodontal rehabilitation while simultaneously preventing further gingival tissue recession and potentially bone atrophy. The aim of this study was to compare two differently sourced membranes, a resorbable piscine collagen membrane and a porcine‐derived collagen membrane, in the repair of soft tissue defects utilizing a preclinical canine model. This in vivo component consisted of 10 beagles which were subjected to bilateral maxillary canine mucogingival flap defects, as well as bilateral soft tissue defects (or pouches) with no periodontal ligament damage in the mandibular canines. Defects received either a piscine‐derived dermal membrane, (Kerecis® Oral, Ísafjörður, Iceland) or porcine‐derived dermal membrane (Geistlich Mucograft®, Wolhusen, Switzerland) in a randomized fashion (to avoid site bias) and were allowed to heal for 30, 60, or 90 days. Statistical evaluation of tissue thickness was performed using general linear mixed model analysis of variance and least significant difference (LSD) post hoc analyses with fixed factors of time and membrane. Semi‐quantitative analysis employed for inflammation assessment was evaluated using a chi‐squared test along with a heteroscedastic t‐test and values were reported as mean and corresponding 95% confidence intervals. In both the mucogingival flap defects and soft tissue gingival pouches, no appreciable qualitative differences were observed in tissue healing between the membranes. Furthermore, no statistical differences were observed in the thickness measurements between piscine‐ and porcine‐derived membranes in the mucogingival flap defects (1.05 mm [±0.17] and 1.29 mm [±0.17], respectively [p = .06]) or soft tissue pouches (1.36 mm [±0.14] and 1.47 mm [±0.14], respectively [p = .27]), collapsed over time. Independent of membrane source (i.e., piscine or porcine), similar inflammatory responses were observed in both the maxilla and mandible at the three time points (p = .88 and p = .79, respectively). Histologic and histomorphometric evaluation results indicated that both membranes yielded equivalent tissue responses, remodeling dynamics and healing patterns for the mucogingival flap as well as the soft tissue gingival pouch defect models.
Formal help‐seeking in intimate partner violence among Spanish‐born and immigrant women in Spain: A focus group study
Authors: Cuesta‐García Andrea , Haro Begoña , Fernández‐Lansac Violeta , Crespo María
Published: August 2024

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a public health problem. In Spain, although the prevalence of IPV is greater in immigrant women than in Spanish‐born women, immigrant women seem to access services to a lesser extent. This study aimed to explore and compare perceptions of barriers to and strategies for seeking formal help among Spanish‐born and immigrant women IPV survivors. A qualitative study was conducted based on three focus groups with women of Spanish (n = 9), Romanian (n = 4), and Latin American (n = 4) origin. The thematic analysis was supported by Atlas.ti. Three categories and 12 subcategories were identified: general characteristics of help‐seeking behavior (e.g., children as the main motivating factor), barriers (e.g., immigrant status, fear of the perpetrator), and strategies for accessing services (e.g., increasing education). Differences in help‐seeking behavior were found between groups. Relevant information for professionals to improve women's access to IPV support services is provided.
Mechanistic study of NUPR1 in bladder cancer development through transcriptional regulation of CCR2
Authors: Shi Zebin , Mi Yuanyuan , Zhang Li , Zhang Wenxu , Zhang Wei , Shi Xiaokai , Gao Shenglin , Zuo Li , Zhang Lifeng
Published: August 2024

Nuclear protein‐1 (NUPR1) (also known as p8) is one of the genes associated with transcription factors that participate in various aspects of cancer initiation and development. However, the molecular mechanisms of NUPR1 in bladder cancer (BLCA) remain unclear. We conducted an analysis of the correlation between NUPR1 expression and related genes using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) online database. We employed lentivirus‐mediated small interfering RNA (siRNA) to knockdown the expression of NUPR1 in two human BLCA cell lines. In vitro experiments were conducted to validate the impact of NUPR1 interference on BLCA and the influence of NUPR1 on the transcription of chemokine receptor‐2 (CCR2). Furthermore, transcription factors for CCR2 were predicted using the PROMO database. Co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) and immunofluorescence double staining were used to detect the binding between NUPR1 and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein γ (CEBPG). In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to validate that NUPR1 regulates CCR2 transcription through CEBPG. In vitro experiments indicate that the suppression of NUPR1 inhibited BLCA growth. Analysis of the GEO database revealed a positive correlation between the expression of NUPR1 and CCR2. Luciferase experiments confirmed that NUPR1 influences the transcription of CCR2. Online data indicates that CEBPG is a transcription factor for CCR2. Co‐IP and immunofluorescence double staining confirmed binding between NUPR1 and CEBPG. Luciferase assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) demonstrate that CEBPG regulates the transcription of CCR2. Additionally, rescue experiments at the cellular level and animal experiments validated the aforementioned mechanism. NUPR1 promotes a promotional role in BLCA, and interference with NUPR1 can inhibit the proliferation and invasive abilities of BLCA. There was a correlation between the expressions of NUPR1 and CCR2, and NUPR1 binds with CEBPG in the cell nucleus. Transcriptional regulation of CCR2 by NUPR1 may be achieved through the involvement of CEBPG.
Teaching students leadership knowledge and skills: A 10‐year comparison of predoctoral dental school curricula
Authors: Winebrake Kate , McDonough Robert , Mara Matthew D.
Published: August 2024

Purpose/objective

The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standard 2‐19 states that dental programs must assess graduates’ ability to function successfully as leaders of the dental team. This study aimed to explore how predoctoral programs teach and assess leadership and compare findings to the only known national survey on predoctoral leadership training from 2012.

Methods

In August and September, 2022, a 22‐item survey was emailed to academic deans at 75 CODA‐accredited dental schools. If necessary, deans were encouraged to designate a curriculum expert at their school to complete the survey. The survey was open for a period of 4 weeks. Two reminders were sent following outreach—one 2 weeks after survey release, and one 24 hours before closing. Data were analyzed and descriptive statistics were calculated.

Findings/results

Eighteen schools (24%) responded. Respondents indicated diverse leadership training opportunities across the curricula. Compared to 2012, respondents report a significant decrease in the use of practical exams and a significant increase in faculty evaluation of student leadership skills in clinical settings. Significant change was not noted across other assessment modalities: multiple choice assessments/exams, rotation ratings, development and evaluation of a project, portfolio submissions, and peer‐assessment. Respondents indicate leadership training opportunities and assessment strategies not evaluated in 2012: 33% (6/18) objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), 56% (10/18) student self‐assessments, and 33% (6/18) record reviews.

Conclusion

There is a shift in leadership training in dental education. Future mixed methods research is needed to identify best practices to inform the development of a leadership training framework.
Extracellular vesicles carry transcriptional ‘dark matter’ revealing tissue‐specific information
Authors: Dogra Navneet , Chen Tzu‐Yi , Gonzalez‐Kozlova Edgar , Miceli Rebecca , Cordon‐Cardo Carlos , Tewari Ashutosh K. , Losic Bojan , Stolovitzky Gustavo
Published: August 2024

From eukaryotes to prokaryotes, all cells secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) as part of their regular homeostasis, intercellular communication, and cargo disposal. Accumulating evidence suggests that small EVs carry functional small RNAs, potentially serving as extracellular messengers and liquid‐biopsy markers. Yet, the complete transcriptomic landscape of EV‐associated small RNAs during disease progression is poorly delineated due to critical limitations including the protocols used for sequencing, suboptimal alignment of short reads (20–50 nt), and uncharacterized genome annotations—often denoted as the ‘dark matter’ of the genome. In this study, we investigate the EV‐associated small unannotated RNAs that arise from endogenous genes and are part of the genomic ‘dark matter’, which may play a key emerging role in regulating gene expression and translational mechanisms. To address this, we created a distinct small RNAseq dataset from human prostate cancer & benign tissues, and EVs derived from blood (pre‐ & post‐prostatectomy), urine, and human prostate carcinoma epithelial cell line. We then developed an unsupervised data‐based bioinformatic pipeline that recognizes biologically relevant transcriptional signals irrespective of their genomic annotation. Using this approach, we discovered distinct EV‐RNA expression patterns emerging from the un‐annotated genomic regions (UGRs) of the transcriptomes associated with tissue‐specific phenotypes. We have named these novel EV‐associated small RNAs as ‘EV‐UGRsʼ or “EV‐dark matter”. Here, we demonstrate that EV‐UGR gene expressions are downregulated by ∼100 fold (FDR < 0.05) in the circulating serum EVs from aggressive prostate cancer subjects. Remarkably, these EV‐UGRs expression signatures were regained (upregulated) after radical prostatectomy in the same follow‐up patients. Finally, we developed a stem‐loop RT‐qPCR assay that validated prostate cancer‐specific EV‐UGRs for selective fluid‐based diagnostics. Overall, using an unsupervised data driven approach, we investigate the ‘dark matter’ of EV‐transcriptome and demonstrate that EV‐UGRs carry tissue‐specific Information that significantly alters pre‐ and post‐prostatectomy in the prostate cancer patients. Although further validation in randomized clinical trials is required, this new class of EV‐RNAs hold promise in liquid‐biopsy by avoiding highly invasive biopsy procedures in prostate cancer.
The impact of digital inclusive finance on regional capital aggregation
Authors: Sheng Tianxiang , Teng Jiahui
Published: August 2024

Capital flow and aggregation are pivotal to regional coordinated development, and the innovations within the financial industry have introduced significant changes. This study examines the potential impact of digital inclusive finance on regional capital aggregation. By analyzing city data from China between 2011 and 2020, we find that the development of digital inclusive finance exhibits an inverted U‐shaped effect on regional capital aggregation. During the initial stages of digital inclusive finance development, it promotes regional capital aggregation; however, beyond a certain threshold, there is a fostering of capital outflow. The impact mechanism reveals that digital inclusive finance exerts a nonlinear effect on the efficiency of regional capital allocation, thereby altering the regional capital aggregation level. Furthermore, enhancing human capital levels can accelerate this process, whereas increased government intervention may impede it. This study contributes to the theoretical research on factors influencing capital flow across regions and offers significant implications for utilizing digital inclusive finance to narrow the regional capital allocation gap and promote coordinated regional development.
Finite‐time extinction of a fractional rumor model
Authors: Wang Xiaohuan , Wang Xinyao , Yang Wanli
Published: August 2024

Rumors often exist in real life. If rumors are not controlled, they usually do not disappear for a limited time. Meanwhile, everyone has memories and time‐fractional derivative can describe the memories. Thus, in this paper, a new time‐fractional rumor model is introduced, and moreover, the finite time extinction of rumor is obtained under a distributed controller is added. What's more, both the ordinary differential equations model and partial differential equations model are studied. Numerical examples verify our results.
Lower urinary tract symptoms in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: An evaluation in terms of functional level, posture, and muscle strength
Authors: Öztürk Demet , Karaduman Aynur Ayşe , Akbayrak Türkan
Published: August 2024

Aim

To examine factors associated with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 45 individuals diagnosed with DMD between the ages of 5 and 18 years. LUTS were evaluated with the Dysfunctional Voiding and Incontinence Scoring System, functional levels with the Brooke Upper Extremity Functional Classification and the Vignos Scale, lumbar lordosis angle with a bubble inclinometer, pelvic inclination angles with a digital inclinometer, and muscle strength with a hand‐held dynamometer.

Results

The mean age of the children was calculated as 9.00 ± 3.32 years, body weight as 31.10 ± 12.59 kg, and height as 125.87 ± 18.46 cm. LUTD was detected in 20 children (44.44%). There was an association between high LUTD severity and low strength of the following muscles: bilateral hip flexor (Dominant: r = −0.338, p = 0.023; nondominant: r = −0.411, p = 0.005), quadriceps femoris (Dominant: r = −0.445, p = 0.002; nondominant: r = −0.504, p < 0.001), elbow flexor (Dominant: r = −0.461, p = 0.001; nondominant: r = −0.455, p = 0.002), and elbow extensor (Dominant: r = −0.442, p = 0.002; nondominant: r = −0.450, p = 0.002). Upper extremity functionality level was significantly higher in the LUTD‐negative group (p = 0.004). There was no relationship between lumbar lordosis and pelvic inclination angles and LUTS symptoms (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

To provide the adequate care for bladder health in children with DMD, it is essential to focus on parameters that will increase functionality and independence in this population.