bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Functional and phylogenetic β diversities and their link with clustering/overdispersion and uniqueness/redundancy
Authors: Pavoine Sandrine , Ricotta Carlo 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn recent decades, research on biodiversity in community ecology has been marked by the consideration of species' evolutionary histories and functional traits. Among the different spatial levels at which functional or phylogenetic (hereafter FP) diversity can be quantified, the definition of the general concept of between‐community (β) diversity has been given less attention than that of local, within‐community (α) and regional, merged‐community (γ) diversities. Here, we develop a new method for partitioning FP β diversity into elementary components to determine how and why FP β diversity differs from species β diversity, with the latter reflecting only differences in species' abundances between communities. As a reference example, we consider two distinct measures of FP β diversity: Rao's dissimilarity coefficient (Qβ), which expresses the average FP dissimilarity between communities, and its transformation (Eβ), which expresses the effective number of distinct communities. Through analytical partitioning and simulations, we show that Qβ and Eβ are connected differently to typical patterns of community structure. The search for the ecological and evolutionary processes that drive community assembly and the assessment of community resilience and stability have indeed revealed typical community structures: the local clustering of species with similar traits or shared evolutionary histories and the local (α) or regional (γ) presence of functionally or phylogenetically redundant versus unique species. We show that while Qβ and Eβ are both increasing functions of species β diversity and FP γ uniqueness, Qβ increases with FP clustering, while Eβ increases with FP α redundancy. We also show that the component of FP clustering included in Qβ partitioning formula allows the detection of an overall trend of overdispersion or clustering in a dataset without the need to use null models. To facilitate and secure the selection of an index of β diversity for a given study, we call, through our study, for the development of formal and precise definitions for FP β diversity in light of the concepts of clustering versus overdispersion and redundancy versus uniqueness. In particular, we call for further research on when and why FP β diversity should increase with FP clustering.
Trait‐mediated indirect effect involving a chain of learning in agroecosystems
Authors: Uehara Haruka , Yusa Yoichi 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAn increase in predation risk triggers a trait response of prey, which alters the interactions between the prey and other species, ultimately affecting other species in the ecosystem. Such predator‐driven trait‐mediated indirect effects (TMIEs) may have been shaped by long‐term evolutionary processes involving the organisms involved, but learning may also be important, especially in contemporary ecosystems experiencing repeated biological invasions. The apple snail Pomacea canaliculata is an important introduced pest of rice, Oryza sativa. Recently, the carrion crow Corvus corone has been found to prey on this species only in some areas, suggesting that learning is involved in this predation. In addition, apple snails can learn to escape from predators and exhibit predator‐specific responses. Thus, the “chain of learning” by the crow and the snail may shape novel TMIEs in the rice ecosystem. We conducted field and mesocosm experiments to test this hypothesis. In the field experiment, we simulated predation by crows in rice fields and investigated the behavior of apple snails. The snails exhibited escape behaviors in response to the simulated predation, and both the proportion of individuals showing the escape response and the degree of escape response were greater in fields with predation by crows than those without predation. In the mesocosm experiment, apple snails from fields with and without predation by crows were separately introduced into mesocosms simulating rice fields, and the behaviors of the snails and the number of remaining rice plants were recorded for 16 days at three levels of predation risk (daily, every 4 days, or no predation). Both the presence/absence of predation in the collection fields and simulated predation affected the escape responses of the snails. Moreover, damage to rice was more severe in mesocosms containing snails from fields without predation than those containing snails from fields with predation. These results suggest that the “chain of learning” causes TMIEs in agroecosystems.
Spruce up your climate analysis: Dendroclimatology of Picea engelmannii and Picea pungens
Authors: Birch Joseph D. , DeRose R. Justin , Lutz James A. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractWarming and more variable climates threaten to upend historical tree ranges, climatic sensitivity, and vigor. In western North America, the species Picea engelmannii var. engelmannii Parry ex Engelmann (Engelmann spruce) and Picea pungens Engelmann (Colorado blue spruce) are widespread spruce that act as foundational species in their montane to subalpine habitats. However, there is currently a lack of knowledge on P. pungens climatic responses, and how it differs from P. engelmannii. To address this gap, we assessed the climatic sensitivity and correlates of tree growth in a co‐occurring old‐growth stand of P. engelmannii and P. pungens, at high elevation in southern Utah, USA. We report the putative oldest cross‐dated P. pungens, with 457 rings, and sampled multiple P. pungens >400 years old. Both Picea populations had strongly positive growth responses to May–July precipitation and negative responses to maximum May–July temperature. Notably, October in the previous year had the strongest correlation with growth for both Picea species. Neither population exhibited signs of directional changes in climate–growth responses. Spectral analysis identified peaks associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation at 3–4 years and quasi‐decadal oscillations (18–20 years) in both species. Cumulatively, our results highlight the growth–climate relationships of two frequently understudied subalpine tree species. In particular, P. pungens may warrant further study across its range and identification of other ancient populations.
Breathing Effect in a Tetrapodal Lanthanide‐Phosphonate Organic Framework
Authors: Mendes Ricardo F. , Almeida Paz Filipe A. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe highly flexible organic linker hexamethylenediamine‐N,N,N’,N’‐tetrakis(methylphosphonic acid) (H8htp) was used in the preparation of a new 3D MOF formulated as [La2(SO4)2(H6htp)(H2O)4] ⋅ 2H2O (UAV‐15) by using hydrothermal synthesis. The flexibility of the organic linker posed a serious challenge in the preparation of crystalline materials: for this, the judicious selection of sulfuric acid to act as a mineralizing agent proved to be instrumental, acting in the retardation of the coordination of the phosphonic acid groups, as well as being an integral part the UAV‐15 by coordinating to the metal center. The material is a 3D network having channels filled with crystallization water molecules that can be easily removed by increasing of temperature (120 °C for 24 h), leading to a single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal transformation originating [La2(SO4)2(H6htp)(H2O)3] (UAV‐15 d). This transformation maintains the overall topology of UAV‐15 with only a small distortion of the framework. The reversibility of this transformation was studied, with the material reverting naturally to its original structure at ambient conditions for a period of 3 months or, in a faster way, when immersed in water at 120 °C for 24 h.
Developmental Validation of a DIP‐InDel/DIP‐STR System for the Detection of Unbalanced DNA Mixtures
Authors: Zhang Mingming , Zhang Yuxin , Yang Hailing , Yu Huan , Fan Jiajia , Wang Jiaqi , Liu Zidong , Liu Jinding , Ren Jianbo , Zhang Gengqian 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTExtracting “masked” minor donor information from an unbalanced DNA mixture stain is important for the identification of the person of interest. In recent years, a series of compound markers genotyped based on allele‐specific amplifications have been proposed to detect minor contributors of mixed stains. In this study, we selected out 18 DIP‐InDel markers from previous literatures and established a multiplex system encompassing 18 DIP‐InDel markers and 6 DIP‐STR markers in two separate reactions. The allele frequencies were estimated based on 200 samples, and 23 of the 24 DIP‐linked length polymorphic markers had a relatively high probability of informative markers (I value >0.267), which indicated their potential usefulness in the Chinese Han population. Moreover, the multiplex was highly sensitive (requiring >0.025 ng) and specific to human DNA. This system is capable of detecting the minor contributor comprising 1% in unbalanced mixtures of two individuals. The capacity of profiling cell‐free DNA was also analyzed in few cases. At least one paternal allele could be detected in maternal plasma samples with gestation periods ranging from 27 to 40 weeks. To conclude, the DIP‐linked length polymorphic markers may serve as a convenient method for detecting the presence of a minor donor in unbalanced mixtures and show promise for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis.
Diversity of Alternaria‐derived toxins and their toxicodynamic and toxicokinetic characteristics in the food chain
Authors: Hussain Sarfaraz , Abbas Aqleem , Ali Maratab , Jahan Israt , Jabran Muhammad , Ahmed Muhammad Afaq , Ahmed Zienab F. R. , Zhang Xinhua 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe Alternaria genus comprises more than 250 fungal species among which pathogenic species cause diseases in economically important crops and contaminate food via secreted toxins. Among these host‐specific toxins (HSTs) generally harm specific plants, while certain non‐host‐specific toxins (nHSTs) have significant mutagenic and cytotoxic effects on humans and other vertebrates. Alternaria spp. tend to accumulate mycotoxins in food and food products, causing spoilage in fields during harvesting, postharvest stages, and storage. Changing climatic conditions and large cultivation areas led to a rise in Alternaria mycotoxins, with vegetarians being more frequently exposed. There is limited information on the toxicity incidence, absorption, excretion, and distribution of these mycotoxins in farms and domesticated animals; therefore, further investigation is required. This review covers current studies on the toxic effects of Alternaria mycotoxins, including genotoxicity, teratogenicity, nephrotoxicity, cytotoxicity, DNA damage, carcinogenicity, and immunosuppressive role. The toxicokinetic properties of these mycotoxins were explored, based on both in vitro and in vivo investigations. Combined effects of Alternaria mycotoxins with other mycotoxins in food are not well studied and can vary widely, showing synergistic, additive, or antagonistic interactions based on the specific combinations involved. The data presented here could strengthen risk assessment for Alternaria mycotoxins by emphasizing the need to minimize contact between contaminated and uncontaminated food and establish appropriate measures to ensure food safety.
Application of Pullulan to Induce Disease Resistance Against Diaporthe nobilis in Postharvest Kiwifruit
Authors: Yu Shukun , Li Huanhuan , Han Lihong , Wang Junjie , Tang Xiaofeng , Wei Zhao‐Jun , Liu Yongsheng , Miao Min 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTKiwifruit stands out as a globally favored fruit owing to its palatable flavor and nutritional benefits. However, it continues to ripen after harvest, and this trait makes it more susceptible to fungal infections. Diaporthe spp. has garnered attention for causing postharvest soft rot in kiwifruit; consequently, effective prevention and treatment strategies for soft rot are crucial for managing postharvest diseases in kiwifruit. We found that pullulan treatment greatly decreased both the incidence of disease and lesion diameter following Diaporthe nobilis inoculation in kiwifruit. Pullulan at the concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) markedly reduced the disease incidence of the soft rot in kiwifruit after 3 days of inoculation with D. nobilis by 19.16%, 31.66%, and 48.33%, respectively, and lesion diameter of 5% pullulan treated kiwifruit was 38.1% lower than that of the control 3 days after treatment. Importantly, pullulan treatment maintained and reduced the accumulation of superoxide anion (O2−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and the peroxidation of membrane lipids; maintained high levels of ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH); and stimulated the buildup of total phenolic. Additionally, pullulan treatment markedly increased the activities of defense‐related enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL), chitinase (CHI), and β‐1,3 glucanase (GLU). Furthermore, pullulan treatment was found to activate expressions of defense‐related genes. Overall, our data confirm the application of pullulan treatment for controlling postharvest soft rot in kiwifruit, potentially offering a valuable strategy for enhancing the storage stability and shelf life of this economically significant fruit.
Chronotherapy in head and neck cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Abusamak Mohammad , Abu‐Samak Abdel‐Azez , Cai Wenji , Al‐Waeli Haider , Al‐Hamed Faez Saleh , Al‐Tamimi Mohammad , Juweid Malik , Chaurasia Akhilanand , Nicolau Belinda , Tamimi Faleh 
Published: November 2024

AbstractOptimizing the timing of radiotherapy and chemotherapy tailored to the body's biological clock (i.e., chronotherapy) might improve treatment efficacy and reduce side effects. This systematic review evaluated the effect of chrono‐radiotherapy and chrono‐chemotherapy on treatment efficacy, toxicity and adverse events in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients from prospective and retrospective studies published between the date of database inception until March 2024. The primary outcome measures for chrono‐radiotherapy were treatment efficacy and incidence of grade ≥3 oral mucositis, and the main outcome measures for chrono‐chemotherapy were objective response rate (ORR) and overall toxicity and adverse events. Of 7349 records identified, 22 studies with 3366 patients were included (chrono‐radiotherapy = 9 and chrono‐chemotherapy = 13). HNC patients who underwent chrono‐radiotherapy had 31% less risk of developing severe oral mucositis (grade ≥3) compared to evening radiotherapy (risk ratio: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.53–0.90, p < 0.05). Further, HNC patients who underwent chrono‐chemotherapy using platinum‐based and antimetabolite agents had 73% less risk of lower ORR compared to nontime‐stipulated chemotherapy (risk ratio: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.09–0.84, p < 0.05). In addition, HNC patients who underwent chrono‐chemotherapy had 41% less risk of lower overall toxicity and adverse events in comparison to nontime‐stipulated chemotherapy (risk ratio: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.47–0.72, p < 0.05). In conclusion, chrono‐chemotherapy studies showed evidence of improved treatment efficacy, while in chrono‐radiotherapy it was maintained. Chrono‐radiotherapy and chrono‐chemotherapy studies provide evidence of reduced toxicity and adverse events. However, optimized circadian‐based multicentric clinical studies are needed to support chrono‐radiotherapy and chrono‐chemotherapy in managing HNC.
Globalisation, Financialisation and Endogenous Thresholds for Premature Deindustrialisation
Authors: Özçelik Seda Ekmen , Özmen Erdal , Taşdemir Fatma 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTWe investigate the pattern and determinants of premature deindustrialisation (PD) for a large panel of advanced, emerging and developing economies. We consider the impacts of international financial integration (de facto financial globalisation), capital account openness (de jure financial globalisation) and financialisation which are often neglected by the literature along with the conventional determinants of industrialisation. The recent literature often employs conventional fixed‐effects panel data estimation procedures to estimate and test the postulated inverted‐U relationship between manufacturing value‐added share in GDP and real income. We employ non‐parametric kernel regression to identify the pattern between these variables. In addition, this study analyses the determinants of industrialisation not only by employing the generalised method of moments procedure but also the recent methods allowing to estimate endogenous thresholds. In this context, we also examine whether income and globalisation provide endogenous thresholds for the effect of income on the processes of industrialisation and PD for our samples.
Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model for Evaluating the Toxicology of Inorganic Nanoparticles
Authors: Silva Aline Castro , Viçozzi Gabriel Pedroso , Farina Marcelo , Ávila Daiana Silva 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTInorganic nanoparticles are nanomaterials with a central core composed of inorganic specimens, especially metals, which give them interesting applications but can impact the environment and human health. Their short‐ and long‐term effects are not completely known and to investigate that, alternative models have been successfully used. Among these, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has been increasingly applied in nanotoxicology in recent years because of its many features and advantages for toxicological screening. This non‐parasitic nematode may inhabit any environment where organic matter is available; therefore, it is interesting for ecotoxicological assessments. Moreover, this worm has a high genetic homology to humans, making the findings translatable. A notable number of published studies unraveled the level of toxicity of different nanoparticles, including the mechanisms by which their toxicity occurs. This narrative review collects and describes the most relevant toxicological data for inorganic nanoparticles obtained using C. elegans and also supports its application in safety assessments for regulatory purposes.
Thrombin Immobilized Hemocompatible Radiopaque Polyurethane Microspheres for Topical Blood Coagulation
Authors: Naik Sonali S. , Torris Arun , Ghuge Gorakh Hiraman , Karthika V. K. , Joseph Roy , Nair Kiran Sukumaran 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTOver the past decade, there has been growing interest in developing microspheres for embolization procedures. However, the lack of noninvasive monitoring of the embolic agents and the occurrence of reflux phenomenon leading to unintentional occlusions has raised concerns regarding their compatibility/suitability for embolization therapy. Here we report the development of specialty microspheres having intrinsic radiopacity and surface functionality to tackle the existing complications that pave the way for more advanced solutions. To achieve the above goal, an iodinated monomer, termed “IBHV,” capable of imparting radiopacity and functionality, was synthesized and used as a chain extender to make radiopaque polyurethane. Microspheres with a smooth surface and an average diameter of 474 ± 73 μm were fabricated from this polyurethane. The microspheres obtained were noncytotoxic, had a permissible hemolysis rate, and showed better traceability on x‐ray imaging. Subsequent immobilization of thrombin onto microspheres improved their hemostatic effect. This study demonstrated that immobilization of thrombin would lead to microspheres with unique traits of radiopacity and hemostatic properties, which will undoubtedly enhance embolization efficiency.
Taxonomic Identification of Ligustrum foliosum Nakai: A Comprehensive Study of Macro‐ and Micromorphology
Authors: Zaman Wajid , Lee Eun Mi , Park SeonJoo 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
Ligustrum foliosum Nakai, a species endemic to South Korea, is a member of the Oleaceae family. This study provides a comprehensive taxonomic identification of L. foliosum based on its macro‐ and micromorphological characteristics, particularly focusing on the leaf foliar epidermal taxonomy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the leaf structures of L. foliosum collected from various populations on Ulleungdo Island, its primary habitat. Macromorphological assessment revealed that L. foliosum exhibits ovate to elliptical leaves with pointed apices, rounded bases, and entire, smooth margins. The leaves measured 3–10 cm in length and 1.5–4 cm in width, with a pinnate venation pattern and prominent secondary veins. The adaxial surface was dark green and glabrous, while the adaxial surface was lighter green and slightly pubescent. Micromorphological analysis using SEM provided detailed insights into the leaf epidermal characteristics. The epidermal cells were polygonal in shape with straight to slightly curved anticlinal walls. Anomocytic stomata that were not surrounded by specialized cells are the predominant type, with a density ranging from 100 to 150/mm2. Epidermal cells measured approximately 10–20 μm in length and 5–10 μm in width, while the stomata typically measured approximately 20–30 μm in length and 10–15 μm in width. Thick‐walled bundle sheath cells were evident around the vascular bundles, with a density of 1–3 bundles/mm. The cuticle was moderately thick, providing protection against desiccation, and trichomes were elongated single cell on the leaf both surface. This study contributes to the understanding of L. foliosum's taxonomic position within the Oleaceae family by providing a detailed description of its macro‐ and micromorphological characteristics. These findings can aid in the identification and conservation of this endemic species, which is crucial for preserving the unique biodiversity of Ulleungdo Island and South Korea.