bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insights into Genetics of Floral Development in Amborella trichopoda Baill through Genome-wide Survey and Expression Analysis of MADS-Box Transcription Factors
Authors: Parajuli Sanam , Adhikari Bibek , Nepal Madhav P. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The ABCDE model is a well-known general model of floral development in angiosperms with perfect flowers, with some modifications in different plant taxa. The Fading Borders Model was proposed to better explain floral patterning in basal angiosperms that typically possess spirally arranged floral organs. The MADS-Box gene family is central to these models and has greatly expanded in higher plants which is associated with increasing complexity in floral structures. Amborella trichopoda is a basal angiosperm with simpler floral features, and the genetic and functional roles of MADS-box genes in floral development remain poorly understood in the species. The major objectives of this study were to perform a genome-wide identification and characterization of MADS-BOX genes in A. trichopoda, and to analyze their expression in floral buds and mature flowers t. We identified 42 members of the MADS-Box gene family in A. trichopoda with a Hidden Markov Model (HMM)-based genome-wide survey. Among them, 27 were classified into Type-II or MIKC group. Based on our classification and orthology analysis, a direct ortholog APETALA1 (AP1), an A-class floral MADS-Box gene was absent in A. trichopoda. Gene expression analysis indicated that MIKC-type genes were differentially expressed between male and female flowers with B-function orthologs: APETALA3 (AP3) and PISTILLATA (PI) in the species having differential expression between the two sexes, and E-function orthologs being upregulated in female flowers. Based on these findings, we propose a modification in the Fading Borders Model in A. trichopoda with a modified A-function, B- and E-function orthologs’ expression being sex-specific, and C- and D-function genes having roles similar to that in the classical ABCDE model. These results provide new insights into the genetics underlying floral patterning in the basal angiosperms.
Genesis and Provenance of Chimanimani Diamonds in the Umkondo Basin: Insights from Geochemical Maturity
Authors: Mupaya Fadzanayi , Mapani Benjamin , Meck Maideyi , Mugumbate Forbes 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We report a novel discovery of a westward trend in geochemical maturity revealed by major oxides and SiO2 ratios in the Chimanimani diamondiferous sediments of the Umkondo Basin, eastern Zimbabwe. The analyses were carried out on diamond drill core samples obtained by the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company from the grits in the Lower Argillaceous Formation in Chimanimani. The origin of these sediments has been a subject of debate. Unlike the basal Marange diamondiferous deposits occurring basal to the Proterozoic Umkondo sediments, the Chimanimani grits occur within the sedimentary pile, overlying finer sandstones and underlying shales, which suggests a distinct depositional sequence. While some researchers have attributed the Chimanimani diamondiferous grits to eastward erosion and dispersal from the basal Marange diamondiferous deposits on the basin's western margin, others propose an origin from the older and metamorphosed Mozambique Facies thrust sheets in the east. This study favours a closer source for the diamonds, to the east of the current deposit, as revealed by the westward maturation of hosting grits. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of major and trace elements in the samples revealed ratios of major oxides to SiO2 ranging from 70 to 96%, indicative of mature sediments. This maturity could be attributed to a distant source for the sediments, or to hydraulic sorting within the basin. A striking westward increase in SiO2/major oxide ratios, corroborated by a decrease in SiO2/TiO2, is observed across the deposit. This trend suggests a possible source for the sediments as being to the east of the Chimanimani deposit. This appears to contradict the hypothesis of derivation of the sediments from the west, similar to the provenance of the Marange deposits.
Optimizing the composition of geopolymer composites incorporating secondary aluminium industry by-products using mathematical modelling
Authors: Sharko Artem , Le Van Su , Sharko Oleksandr , Stepanchikov Dmitry , Pavel  , Petrů Michal , Czarnywojtek Piotr , Louda Petr , Łoś Katarzyna Ewa 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Geopolymer composite materials are a viable alternative to conventional construction materials. The research problem of geopolymer composites revolves around the imperative to comprehensively address their synthesis, structural performance, and environmental impact. The derived mathematical model facilitates precisely determining the optimal proportions of two crucial constituents in the geopolymer matrix: silica sand and secondary aluminium by-product. A mathematical model for optimising the composition of geopolymer composites has been developed based on the integrated use of Markov chains, criterion methods and orthogonally compositional plan. The optimal composition of the geopolymer matrix is determined and predicted using a mathematical model. Specifically, the recommended content mixing ratio is as follows: metakaolin at 1000 g, activator at 900 g, silica fume at 1052.826 g, carbon fibre at 10 g, and secondary aluminium by-product at 62,493 g. Analysing the influence of different secondary aluminium industry by-products on the geopolymerization process, and assessing the mechanical, thermal, and environmental properties of the resulting composites to establish a comprehensive understanding of their structural viability.
Leakage analysis and leakage monitoring system design for LNG tanker filling process
Authors: Song Lei , Yin Tao , Han Chuanjun , Zhao Hai 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

During the filling process of LNG tank trucks, due to the long-term operation of filling equipment in low temperature and high-pressure conditions, the sealing parts in the equipment are prone to failure, leading to leaks. The reasons for the leakage of LNG filling equipment were analyzed, and the diffusion of LNG after different equivalent leakage hole diameters and different wind speeds were numerically analyzed. A gas leak monitoring system suitable for LNG filling stations was established based on TDLAS technology. The analysis results show that when the equivalent leakage hole diameter is greater than 4mm, the height of natural gas diffusion will exceed 5m within 2 seconds without wind; the concentration of natural gas above the leakage point is inversely proportional to the height, and the decrease in concentration at a height of 5m is between 50% and 60% compared with a height of 0.5m; the wind will bend the natural gas diffusion shape downwind, and the degree of bending decreases as the equivalent leakage hole diameter increases; the optimal laser incidence angle of the laser gas sensor is between 30° and 50°, and the theoretical effective monitoring area width of the sensor when the installation height is 5m is 4.46m within the optimal laser incidence angle range.
Unplanned Pregnancy and Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women in Uganda: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Makumbi Fredrick , Ssebadduka Peter , Musaba Milton , Wandabwa Julius , Kiondo Paul 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Unplanned pregnancies significantly contribute to maternal morbidity and mortality especially in settings where the abortion law is restrictive. This study aimed to establish the prevalence and factors associated with unplanned pregnancy among women attending antenatal clinic in Uganda. This cross-section study was carried out from 31st January to 30th June 2023 at Kawempe national referral hospital in Uganda. Three hundred and eighty-four pregnant mothers gave information on socio demographic, health system and family planning factors. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was done to determine the factors associated with unplanned pregnancy. The prevalence of unplanned pregnancy was (130/384) 34%. Unplanned pregnancy was associated with: age 20–24 years (AOR;2.8, 95%CI:1.4–5.8) and 25–34 years (AOR = 3.9,95%CI = 2.6–10.2), urban dwelling (AOR = 3.9,95%CI = 2.2–7.5) monogamy (AOR = 3.6,95%CI = 2.1–6.9), jobless women (AOR = 4.2,95%CI = 2.4–8.9) spouse in an informal sector (AOR = 2.8,95%CI = 1.7–4.5) lack of family planning communication (AOR = 2.3,95%CI = 1.4–5.4), single women (AOR = 0.4,95%CI = 0.2–0.8), income of Uganda shillings ≥ 200,000 (AOR = 0.3,95%CI = 0.1–0.6) and Seventh day Adventist belief (AOR = 0.2,95%CI = 0.09–0.6). There was a high prevalence of unplanned pregnancy in this tertiary hospital, associated with maternal age, place of residence, family type, employment status, not discussing about family planning among spouses, marital status, family income and being of Seventh Day Adventist faith. A community-based study in both urban and rural settings is recommended.
Investigation on non-suicidal self-injury and influenced factors of middle school students in a city of Hebei Province
Authors: Liu Yanan , Li Na , Li Yafan , Wang Meng , Wang Yongliang , Chen Yanan , Hang Ling , Ling Jianan , Lu Wenting , Gao Minglong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the incidence and influencing factors of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among middle school students in a city within Hebei Province.
Methods
A total of 11,321 students from grades one to three from two middle schools in Dingzhou, Hebei Province, were randomly selected. Socio-demographic data, mental disorders, coping styles, and experiences of childhood abuse were collected.
Results
10,982 students finally included in the statistical analysis. We found that the detection rate of NSSI in the past year was 11.6%. Comparatively, the NSSI group and the non-NSSI group revealed significant discrepancies in coping styles, childhood abuse, and mental disorders. Factors protective against NSSI included living with parents, a problem-oriented coping style, and a preference for participating in extracurricular activities (OR = 0.729, 0.966, 0.815). NSSI’s risk factors included frequent parental quarrels, interpersonal tension and sensitivity, depression, emotion-oriented coping styles, and childhood emotional abuse (OR = 1.322, 1.045, 1.141, 1.023, 1.137).
Conclusion
The detection rate of NSSI within the past year in the city of Hebei stands at 11.6%. Recognized risk factors for NSSI include childhood abuse, relationship difficulties, depression, and emotion-oriented coping styles, whereas problem-oriented coping strategies act as protective factors. The risk of NSSI may be decreased through the promotion of a harmonious home environment, encouraging positive emotional interaction, and the facilitation of greater involvement in extracurricular activities.
Systematic Photophysical Interaction of New Class of Fluorescein Based Derivative with Organic Solvents: Spectroscopic and Density Functional Theory Methods for Optoelectronic Applications.
Authors: Sucheta M , Pramod A G , Renuka C G 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this report the photophysical property of newly synthesized fluorescein based derivative 2-(5-((2,4-dichlorophenyl)diazenyl)-6-hydroxy-3-oxo-3H-xanthen-9-yl)benzoic acid by spectroscopic and density functional theory technique. The structural of the synthesized molecule was studied by nuclear magnetic resonance and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy technique, from this analysis it has been revealed that the molecule has a stable structure and about the functional groups present in the sample. From the UV-Visible spectroscopy measurement has revealed the solute-solvent interaction behaviour of the molecule and it has been observed that the bathochromic shift was of about 5 nm, from the fluorescence measurement it has revealed that the emission has been observed at green region and from the power spectra it has been confirmed the same. The DFT study has been derived for the synthesized molecule the optimized structure, electrostatic potential maps, theoretical energy band gap and HOMO and LUMO visualizations are derived from the Gaussian 09W software and it has been found that the bandgap energy is found to be 2.060eV for benzene solvent and 3.08 eV in methanol solvent, the electrophilic and nucleophilic sites exhibited at the substitution group of the molecule. The outcomes of the study clearly endorse the synthesized fluorescein derivative suitable for photonic/optoelectronic applications.
A detector-response compensation simulation study with 3D MLEM in SPECT compares distance-dependent and distance-nondependent resolution methods
Authors: ZARRAD BOUBAKER , Aida Mohammed , Altubaynawi Nuha 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background Correcting spatial resolution in single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) using iterative methods has proven effective in many studies. This correction involves using a projection matrix (projector) to simulate the acquisition of projections by a gamma camera, along with a back-projection matrix (back-projector), which is generally the transpose of the projector without any attenuation modeling. This study examined the contribution of distance-dependent detector-response compensation (DRC) and compared it to the accelerated version and the distance-nondependent method. Two projecttors (P1 and P2) and their corresponding back-projectors (B1 and B2) were implemented. P1 represented the distance-dependent response model, while P2 represented a nondependent average response model. Three reconstruction pairs were used: P1/B1 and P1/B2 for distance-dependent DRC, and P2/B2 for distance-nondependent DRC. The reconstruction method was the full 3D maximum-likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM), using simulated digital phantom projections that included attenuation, distance-dependent resolution, and Poisson noise without considering scatter.Results The assessment used transaxial slices. For full-width spatial resolution at half maximum (FWHM), P1 outperformed P2. P1/B2 outperformed P1/B1, with closer approximation after each iteration. Regarding Poisson noise, P1/B1 was more efficient than P1/B2 and P2/B2. Edge artifacts and overshoots were less intense with P2/B2 than the other pairs. P1/B2 and P2/B2 achieved the best relative contrast performance. The root mean squared error (RMSE) or normalized mean error (NME) showed that P1/B1 was best for low projection counts and large iteration numbers, while P1/B2 was best for high projection counts and low iteration numbers. On RMSE, the reconstruction pair performance depended on projection noise level, phantom insert size and type, and iteration.Conclusions No pair was consistently more efficient than the others across all parameters. Using P1/B1, which is far from convergence iteration, could yield results similar to other methods. Considering scatter would likely result in worse and more similar results across the three pairs. Although P2/B2 generally performed worse than P1/B2, they were similar and had more straightforward implementation. The number of iterations should be chosen according to the reconstruction pair, projection count, and desired spatial resolution.
Pseudo-linkage or real-linkage of rust resistance genes in a wheat- Thinopyrum intermedium translocation line
Authors: Li Jianbo , Ryan Merrill , Dong Chongmei , Forrest Kerrie , Hayden Matthew , Singh Smriti , Wang Yuqi , Ahmed Nizam , McIntosh Robert , Zhang Peng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Wheat addition lines Z4 and Z5 carrying rust resistance genes from Thinopyrum intermedium (JJJsJsStSt, 2n = 6x = 42) together with three wheat lines involved in the production of these addition lines were analysed by rust response, 90K SNP genotyping, and molecular cytogenetic analysis. Backcross and selfed populations involving the addition lines and various wheat cultivars were studied to understand the inheritance of the alien resistance genes. Although inheritance studies indicated genetic linkage, the alien genes for resistance to leaf rust (LR) and stripe rust (YR) in Z4 were present in different wheat-Th. intermedium translocation chromosomes. We found that LR and YR are in pseudo-linkage, rather than true linkage.
Hydroxyurea efficacy in sickle cell anemia patients in low-income middle country in Cote d’Ivoire
Authors: KOFFI KOUASSI GUSTAVE , Dieket Ruth , N’dhatz Emeraude , Abenan Nelly Eloise , Silué Alexis Dohoma , Kamara Ismael , Kouakou Boidy , Nanho Danho Clotaire 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background. Very few studies have been set in Subsaharan Africa according to hydroxyurea effacy and safety. We aimed to evaluate Hydroxyurea efficacy and safety and its benefits in low-resource settings.
Methods We conducted a prospective comparative study of SCA patients. 128 patients was enrolled and divided in two groups. 68 patients treated by hydroxyurea at doses 10-20mg/kg/day and 62 patients control groups without hydroxyurea. The end points assessed was feasibility, safety, and benefits (laboratory variables, sickle cell–related events, transfusions).
Results : The patients assigned to hydroxyurea treatment had lower annual rate of crises than the control group (median, 2.9 vs. 5.3 crises per year, P=0.001), fewer annual rate of hospitalizations (median 2.2 vs. 4.7, P=0.002), and fewer annual rate of transfusion (median 1.3 vs.5.1, P=0.001). We observed a significant increase in Hb F level from 11.77% to 14.6% (p=0.001) in patient treated by hydroxyurea. We also observed a significant increase in the mean of Hb level from 7.3 g/dl to 9.2 g/dl for patients treated by hydroxyurea (p=0.004). Patients treated by hydroxyurea also have a beneficial effect on WBC and platelet levels by reduction in leukocytosis and thrombocytosis. the occurrence of annual number of infectious complications was significantly lower in the group of patients with hydroxyurea.
Conclusion: Hydroxyurea has a key clinical benefits by reducing the incidence of vaso-occlusive events, infections, transfusions, which translates into fewer hospitalizations. The main problem is the fact that, it’s not accessible for most of our patients who live in poor socio-economical condition.
Effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on expression of ASIC3 in DRG and spinal cord and inflammatory response of KOA
Authors: Lv Xianglong , Yang Xingyue , An Songsong , Huang Yuanyue , Huang Yuanxin , Wo Chunxin , Yao Jing 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been shown in clinical trials to be effective in reducing knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients' pain complaints and enhancing knee joint function; however, the underlying mechanism is still unknown. In order to clarify the mechanism by which ESWT reduces pain in KOA rats, this study will examine the effects of the treatment on the expression of acid-sensitive ion channel 3 (ASIC3) in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of KOA rats. It will also assess inflammatory factors in the spinal cord and synovium.
Methods
A total of thirty-six male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly allocated into three distinct groups: the control group, the model group, and the shock wave group, with an equal number of twelve rats in each. The right joint cavity of the control group underwent an injection of normal saline, whereas both the model and shock wave groups received an injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) into their respective right joint cavities. Subsequently,, shock wave therapy (ESWT) was administered to the shock wave group. Paw withdrawal thermal latency (PWTL) and paw withdrawal mechanical threshold (PWMT) were measured as indicators. X-ray examination assessed the degree of knee injury and treatment effects in rats. Immunofluorescence staining detected ASIC3 expression in L3-5 spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Hematoxylin-eosin staining allowed for morphological observation of knee joints using light microscopy (HE). Immunohistochemical methods were employed to detect interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α) expression in spinal cord tissue at L3-L5 level as well as synovial tissue within the knee joint.
Results
Secondary pain sensitization occurs in rats with MIA-induced knee osteoarthritis (KOA), and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) effectively mitigates the symptoms of pain sensitization in KOA rats. X-ray and histopathological examination results demonstrate that ESWT can delay the progression of KOA. Furthermore, ESWT treatment leads to a reduction in levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the synovium, cartilage, and spinal cord of KOA rats, thereby improving inflammation associated with KOA. Additionally, ASIC3 expression is down-regulated by ESWT in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG).
Conclusion
ESWT exhibits the potential capability to alleviate pain sensitization symptoms and decelerate the progression of KOA in rats, potentially by virtue of its efficacy in decreasing the concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 within the synovium and spinal cord, thereby ameliorating inflammation associated with KOA. Furthermore, ESWT may suppress the expression of ASIC3 in the spinal cord and DRG. These discoveries furnish a solid theoretical basis for the consideration of ESWT as a therapeutic alternative for KOA.
Human pressure homogenises species and traits globally
Authors: Graco-Roza Caio , Wong Mark , Barber Nicholas , Brodersen Jakob , Callisto Marcos , Castro Diego , Dröse William , Etard Adrienne , Gonçalves-Souza Thiago , Graham Catherine , Huszar Vera , Isaia Marco , Lachat Thibault , Marinho Marcelo , Moretti Marco , Ossola Alessandro , Piano Elena , Romero Gustavo , Seehausen Ole , Stavert Jamie , Soininen Janne , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Altermatt Florian , Gossner Martin , Roth Tobias , Strebel Nicolas 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Human pressures, particularly urbanisation and agricultural expansion, profoundly affect biodiversity by reshaping species and functional trait distributions, with critical consequences for ecosystem resilience and multifunctionality. Yet, the extent and strength of these impacts across diverse taxa and ecosystems remain poorly understood. Here, we analyse 160 spatial datasets, encompassing over 13,000 local communities and nine major taxa in freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems worldwide. Our results reveal that human pressure is the dominant driver of species and trait replacement, consistently outweighing the effects of climate and spatial distance. Despite observing a prevalence of biotic differentiation across landscapes, we reveal that the occurrence of biotic homogenisation is consistently linked to the dominant effects of human pressure. These homogenising effects are particularly pronounced in the trait composition of terrestrial communities and the species composition of freshwater communities, suggesting distinct mechanisms across realms. We find that rates of species and trait replacement increase rapidly along the human pressure gradient, especially between low and medium pressure, before they stabilise. Importantly, an exception occurs in urban landscapes, where species replacement increases exponentially. Although ecological communities generally exhibit species turnover along the human pressure gradient, we find that they are disproportionately homogenised in traits. While this provides resilience to environmental changes, it can delay the recognition of species collapse until key functional traits are lost, risking sudden ecosystem breakdown. Our findings underscore the urgent need for conservation strategies that prioritise the preservation of minimally impacted habitats to sustain ecosystem resilience and multifunctionality.