bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Can flower forms be indicators of pollen diversity and possible gametophytic selection in marigold breeding programs?
Authors: Dedhia Labdhi , P Veeresh , Samuel Duleep , R Venugopalan , P Tejaswini 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Pollen shape has been utilized as a taxonomic attribute since it is thought to be the most constant trait within a plant species. The African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) has substantial variability within the species due to its wider adaptability to various agroclimatic conditions; thus, from a palynological perspective, this species is interesting for studying the variation in its pollen grains. As a commercial flower crop, the breeding programme involves multiple flower forms within the species; hence, the objective of this study was twofold: first, to characterize the typical pollen grain features of marigold and second, to assess the potential variation in pollen morphology in different flower forms across marigold genotypes for possible gametophytic selection in breeding programmes. Nine African marigold plant genotypes with six different flower forms were imaged using a scanned electron microscope to study the characteristic features of the pollen grains. The pollen grains of Tagetes erecta were found to be radially symmetrical, isopolar monads that were oblate spheroidal and suboblate in shape with tricolpi apertures and with echinate erections on the pollen wall. Significant differences were recorded between the genotypes and flower forms for all the pollen morphological features studied. The variability observed among the pollen grain populations within the genotypes for certain morphometric traits also suggested the potential of using gametophytic selection in marigold breeding programs. Although it is important to establish pollen traits for commercial hybridization programs, little information is available, and to our knowledge, this is the first report on characteristic pollen grain features in African marigolds.
The mec-2e isoform with a large C-terminal completely rescues the touch sensation defect of C. elegans
Authors: Keszthelyi Tália Magdolna , Légrádi Regina , Pálya Dóra , Köles Tímea , Regős Ágnes , Tory Kálmán 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Human podocin and C. elegans MEC-2 belong to the stomatin protein superfamily. They share 49% identity and 91% similarity both in the evolutionary conserved PHB domain (123-284aa) and in the oligomerization region (273-351aa). Amino acid substitutions in these conserved regions can modify the podocin oligomerization and thus the pathogenicity of trans-associated NPHS2 variants, known as interallelic interactions. The MEC-2A isoform was formerly considered to be the canonical isoform and used to evaluate the effect of pathogenic podocin variants. The mec-2 mutant worms are mechanosensation deficient, and, as recently described, also chemosensation deficient. To study the interallelic interactions of podocin in vivo, we aimed to rescue the phenotype of the mec-2 mutant worm by reexpressing podocin (383 aa). However, we found no chemotaxis deficiency by none of four odorants in neither a null (Tu37), nor in a missense mutant (CB75) strain. No mechanosensation rescue was achieved by MEC-2A, but with a 17,5kb genomic region and the MEC-2E isoform (1239 aa) with a large C-terminal. Truncating the last third of the large C-terminal abolished its rescue effect. In conclusion, the function of MEC-2 in mechanosensation requires a large C-terminal encoded by the MEC-2E isoform. Accordingly, human podocin cannot rescue the phenotype of mec-2 mutants.
Study on the Temporal and Spatial Migration Patterns of Blast Smoke in the Mining Area and Optimization of Effective Range
Authors: Chen Li , Tian Yuan , Zhang Nana , Xu Ziyi , Li Zhisheng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

To prevent asphyxiation accidents caused by toxic and harmful gases in underground metallic and non-metallic mining operations, this study employs Fluent numerical simulation to investigate the steady-state airflow and diffusion patterns of toxic gases under various effective ranges, both with and without mid-level tunnels. A total of five different effective ranges of equal length are selected within the range of interest to determine the optimal effective range. The results indicate that, regardless of the consideration of mid-level tunnels, the airflow performance deteriorates as the effective range increases in the steady-state airflow field. In the transient concentration field, regardless of whether mid-level tunnels are considered, the average respiratory height of 1.5 m shows that the time required for CO concentration to drop below 0.0024% decreases as the effective range decreases, both at the cross-section and at monitoring points. By integrating the findings from the steady-state airflow and transient concentration fields, the minimum effective range is ultimately determined to be the optimal effective range.
ChatGPT or the Language Genie: Perspectives and Lived Experiences of Students in Tunisia
Authors: Abdeljaoued Marii 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Since its inception in 2022, ChatGPT has been hailed as a revolutionary tool, particularly among students who view it as a solution to various academic queries and tasks. Its instant feedback on numerous subjects has eased academic burdens and enhanced learning experiences. The tool has rapidly gained popularity as it offers personalized assistance and fosters independent learning among students worldwide. This study sets out to assess students' perceptions and attitudes towards using ChatGPT in their learning and report on their lived experiences with the tool. Specifically, this research aims to identify the potential benefits and risks of using ChatGPT in higher education settings, explore students' attitudes towards the tool, and assess the level of acceptance of ChatGPT and its implications for learning and conducting research.
Methods
A survey of 686 students gathered quantitative and qualitative data on their perceptions and experiences with ChatGPT, following the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). To gain more in-depth insights, the survey included a final open-ended question: "Can you share a specific experience where ChatGPT was particularly helpful or challenging for you in finding information or answering questions?" Students’ responses to this question produced 24,000 words of raw text in Arabic, English, and French. This corpus was then subjected to thematic content analysis.
Results
Findings reveal ChatGPT's popularity among students for its interactive and personalized learning capabilities. While students expressed a strong intention to use and recommend ChatGPT, they also approached it cautiously, noting concerns about privacy, reduced critical thinking skills, and academic integrity. Quantitative data paints a compelling picture of ChatGPT's positive reception among students in Tunisia, with many expressing enjoyment and interest in the tool. ChatGPT offers a pleasurable and engaging experience, fostering active participation. Qualitative analysis reveals a nuanced relationship, with students recognizing both the benefits and limitations of ChatGPT, often framing their experiences in a "Yes... But..." manner.
Comparison of accumulation rates of beta-amyloid tracers and their relationship with cognitive changes
Authors: Cho Soo Hyun , Kang Heekyoung , Ham Hongki , Moon SeungHwan , Jang Hyemin , Yun Jihwan , Lee Eun Hye , Shin Daeun , Yim Sohyun , Kim Byeong Chae , Kim Hee Jin , Na Duk L. , Seo Sang Won , Kim Jun Pyo 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We aimed to compare amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation rates between different tracers and investigate whether the relationship between changes in Aβ uptake and cognitive decline varies depending on tracer type. Two cohorts were analyzed: (1) a head-to-head longitudinal cohort using [18F]florbetaben (FBB) and [18F]flutemetamol (FMM) tracers (n = 13), and (2) separate longitudinal cohorts for each tracer (n = 174 for both FMM and FBB), matched by propensity score. Aβ uptake was measured using regional direct comparison of Centiloid (rdcCL) values. In the head-to-head cohort, subtracting changes in FMM rdcCL from FBB rdcCL yielded median values above zero in all regions except the cingulate. In the individual tracer cohorts, FBB rdcCL showed faster accumulation than FMM rdcCL in all cortical regions except the striatum (β [SE] = -2.49 to -1.56 [0.47 to 0.54], p < 0.001). Mini-Mental State Examination changes were associated with annualized FMM rdcCL changes in the temporal cortex (p = 0.02) and striatum (p = 0.01); however, no such differences were found in the FBB cohort. Our findings suggest that longitudinal Aβ positron emission tomography studies should consider the specific characteristics of tracers depending on the context of use.
Blooming Longer: Tailoring Preservative Concentration and Silicon to Extend the Vase Life of Peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.)
Authors: zheng huimin , Liu Yinan , Bai Shenfei , Jia Xiaokai , Tian Yifan , Shi Sho , Ma Jingyan , Yue Yutong , Wu Yujing , Ji Jing , Tian Shilin , Tang Zheyuan , Hao Hailei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The market for fresh-cut peony flowers is booming globally, but their short vase life limits their commercial value. This study evaluated the effects of silicon and commercial preservatives on the postharvest performance of best-selling Paeonia lactiflora varieties, including the challenging 'Bartzella' variety that wilts the day after flowering. It was found that a diluted freshness preservative combined with silicon significantly enhanced the vase life and bloom quality of the peonies. A four-fold dilution of the recommended concentration of commercial freshness preservative was suggested. Additionally, there is a variety-specific response to the preservative; diluted Chrysal + Si treatment significantly increased flower size and prolonged the optimal viewing period for 'Monsieur Jules Elie' and 'Kelway's Glorious' varieties, while diluted Oasis + Si treatment was preferred for 'Sarah Bernhardt' and 'Bartzella' varieties.
scPlantFormer: A Lightweight Foundation Model for Plant Single-Cell Omics Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiujun , Xu Jing , Chen Di , Chen Luo-Nan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Foundation models have revolutionized single-cell omics data analysis and the increasing adoption of single-cell technologies in plant biology highlights the pressing need for efficient analytical tools. Developing a high-performance and lightweight foundation model for plant science is complex yet necessary. Inspired by the fact that the gene expression vector of cells contain less information-dense than the sentence, we offer a new perspective on pretraining single-cell omics foundation models and develop scPlantFormer, a model pretrained on one million Arabidopsis thaliana scRNA-seq data. Systematic benchmarking reveals that scPlantFormer excels in plant scRNA-seq analysis. Besides, two workflows are proposed to refine cell-type identification and significantly enhance the accuracy of inter-dataset cell-type annotation. scPlantFormer effectively integrates scRNA-seq data across species, identifying conserved cell types validated by the literature and uncovering novel ones. Additionally, it constructs a comprehensive Arabidopsis thaliana atlas with approximately 400,000 cells, positioning scPlantFormer as a powerful tool for plant single-cell omics.
Increasing drying changes the relationship of biodiversity and community assembly with ecosystem multifunctionality in temporary streams
Authors: Li Chaoran , Hou Jun , Kong Ming , Yao Yu , Adyel Tanveer , Wu Jun , You Guoxiang , Yu Yue , Liu Songqi , Yang Zijun , Miao Lingzhan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Increased drought in rivers under the impact of global climate change is leading to biodiversity loss. However, it is not clear whether biodiversity loss affects river multifunctionality. In this study, we investigated the changes in community structure and ecological functions of biofilm communities in an artificially simulated stream after different drought durations.A drought period of about 60 days is a critical time point for changes in the structure and functions of river ecosystems under drought stress. Therefore, different drought durations were divided into short-term drought (0 ~ 20 d) and long-term drought (60 ~ 130 d) to analyse the maintenance mechanism of benthic community structure in terms of multifunctionality. In summary, biodiversity showed a significant dominant relationship in maintaining community stability after short-term drought, while the dominant relationship got uncoupled after long-term drought. For the maintenance of multifunctionality in benthic ecosystems, community assembly has been dominant with drought intensification, rather than biodiversity as traditionally perceived. This study reveals the importance of community assembly in maintaining multifunctionality in intermittent river and ephemeral stream ecosystems, extending theoretical knowledge of B-EMf relationships in extreme environments.
Efficient active hydrogen delivery for drug-free radiation enteritis therapy
Authors: Liu Luntao , Yin Xianggui , Bi Changfen , Chen Yuanfang , Hu Xueyin , Shi Guangyou , Li Shuqin , Zhang Wen , Ma Longbo , Fan Saijun 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Radiation enteritis affects over 90% of patients undergoing pelvic or abdominal radiotherapy, primarily due to radiation-induced production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). Active hydrogens possess broad-spectrum RONS scavenging ability, demonstrating great potential in radioprotection. However, owing to the intestinal mucus barrier and short lifespan of active hydrogens, delivering active hydrogens to the injury site has been significantly challenging. Herein, drinkable, simple-structured, self-thermophoresis-powered sodium alginate-coated hydrogenated molybdenum oxide nanomachines with high capacity of active hydrogens (HxMoO3@SAs) were developed, featuring excellent directional motility driven by near-infrared (NIR) light and the ability to spontaneously and sustainably release of active hydrogens. Further, HxMoO3@SAs were innovatively applied in treating acute radiation enteritis. Their unique directional motion ability enables HxMoO3@SAs to successfully overcome the mucus barrier and prolong retention in the intestine, allowing the released active hydrogens to reach hard-to-reach injury sites, thereby achieving precise and efficient enteritis therapy. Surprisingly, in addition to highly efficient scavenging of cytotoxic RONS, the released hydrogen can also induce the polarization of macrophages into an anti-inflammatory phenotype, increase goblet cell abundance, and modulate the intestinal microbiota, leading to the repair of radiation-induced intestinal damage. Overall, this hydrogen-based, drug-free treatment strategy, coupled with precise delivery capability, presented superior efficacy in treating radiation enteritis.
Green Astaxanthin Extraction: Microwave and Ultrasound Pretreatment
Authors: Feizi Parisa , Maghsoudlou Yahya , Tabarestani Hoda Shahiri , Jafari Seyed Mahdi , Bahri Amir houshang 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In this study, ultrasonic and microwave extraction were performed to recover astaxanthin from F. merguiensis shrimp and P. maeoticus Gammarus samples, using three solvents, including organic solvent, vegetable oil, and ionic microemulsion. Microemulsions were evaluated in terms of density, conductivity, and particle size. The microemulsion exhibited a density of 0.9715 g/cm3, a conductivity of 312 µSiemens, and an average particle size of 15.8 nm. The results demonstrated that in both samples, the ionic microemulsion solvent showed superior performance in astaxanthin extraction and F. merguiensis shrimp produced more total carotenoid compared to the other sample, In both methods, the recovery efficiency of astaxanthin increased with an increasing amount of solvent and with an increase in power and extraction time, it increased at first, but then a slight decrease was observed. Ultrasonic extraction preserved the structure and antioxidant properties of astaxanthin better, but the microwave method showed a higher extraction efficiency.
The Response of Tropical Cyclone Hazard to Natural and Forced Warming Patterns
Authors: Lin Jonathan , Lee Chia-Ying , Camargo Suzana , Sobel Adam , Zhuo Jing-Yi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study quantifies the influence of the pattern of sea surface temperature change in the tropical Pacific on tropical cyclone hazard. After applying a tropical cyclone downscaling model to downscale a climate model with an ''El Niño-like" forced response, it is found that the warming pattern induces an ''El Niño-like" change to tropical cyclone hazard. The magnitude of hazard change owing to this warming pattern is estimated to be around the same order of magnitude as that owing to the forced response that does not project onto the same warming pattern. Given the uncertainty around the future pattern of Pacific warming, a storyline with a ''La Niña-like" warming pattern, of similar magnitude to the observations, is created. In this scenario, near-term tropical cyclone hazard over coastal Asia and the Atlantic basin increases significantly, highlighting the sensitivity of local tropical cyclone hazard to the pattern of warming.
A Comparative Case Study of Pituitary Macroadenoma Treatment: No Intervention, Medication, Nutrition, and Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery
Authors: Vaziri Ava Yektaeian , Mohamadi Hassan Reza 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a detailed case report of a 19-year-old woman diagnosed with hyperprolactinemia, followed over a six-year period until her full recovery at age 25. The patient’s initial complaint of ineffective laser hair removal led to the discovery of elevated prolactin levels, followed by a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Despite undergoing multiple pharmacological treatments, including Bromocriptine and Cabergoline, the patient developed secondary amenorrhea and was diagnosed with a treatment-resistant pituitary macroadenoma. Dietary modifications and herbal supplements provided only temporary relief. Ultimately, surgical intervention via endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery successfully resolved the patient’s condition, with normalized prolactin levels and the resolution of amenorrhea. This case highlights the challenges of managing treatment-resistant hyperprolactinemia and underscores the importance of adaptable treatment plans and the potential necessity of surgery.
Phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity of Ocotea usambarensis Engl. and Secamone africana (Oliv.) Bullock, medicinal plants used in Bushenyi district, Uganda
Authors: Onekalith Stephen , Begumisa Godfrey Magyezi , Nakintu Justine 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Ocotea usambarensis, lately reclassified as Kuloa usambarensis (Engl.) Trofimov & Rohwer, and Secamone africana are extensively utilized medicinal plants in Bushenyi district, southwestern Uganda. These plants traditionally complement the conventional drugs in the treatment of various ailments including malaria, cough, measles, anemia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and diarrhea. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical content and antibacterial activity of extracts from the two plants against common pathogenic bacteria; Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus.
Methods
The stem bark and leaves of the two medicinal plants were harvested from Kalinzu Forest Reserve and subsequently air dried at ambient temperature. Phytochemical extraction was performed using cold maceration, decoction, and infusion procedures with ethanol, ethyl acetate, and water respectively serving as solvents. The extracts from the stem bark and leaves of O. usambarensis and leaves of S. africana were subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical profiling following standard analytical protocols. The antibacterial properties of the plant extracts against E. coli, S. pneumoniae and S. aureus were assessed basing on the zones of inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and total antibacterial activity. ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc multiple comparison tests were used to determine statistical differences among zones of inhibition of different extract concentrations (7.812-100mg/ml).
Results
The extracts from the two plants contained a diverse spectrum of phytochemical components, including flavonoids, phenols, saponins, and tannins among others. Extracts from both plants demonstrated inhibitory effects on the growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and S. pneumoniae. All extracts were bactericidal at a concentration of 500mg/ml although, a few extracts had bactericidal concentrations as low as 31.25mg/ml.
Conclusion
The diversity of phytochemicals and in vitro antibacterial activity results against E. coli, S. aureus and S. pneumonia of the extracts of O. usambarensis and S. africana, validate the usage of the two plants in herbal remedies.
Comparative Assessment of sEV Biogenesis Regulator Proteins in MSCs and HeLa Cells for Elucidating Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Sharma Yashvi , Mohanty Sujata 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In the intricate landscape of cellular communication, small extracellular vesicles (sEV) originating from endosomes play crucial roles as mediators and have garnered significant attention in theranostics. Our understanding of sEV biogenesis largely stems from studies on cancer cells, which are vital for diagnostics. However, in therapeutics, where mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived sEV are emerging as investigational new drugs, their biogenesis pathways remain largely unexplored. This article explores the parallel narratives of sEV biogenesis in cancer cells and stem cells, specifically using HeLa cells and MSCs as model cell lines. This study investigated the roles of key proteins—HRS, STAM, TSG101, and ALIX—as identified in HeLa cells, in the context of MSC-sEV biogenesis. While these proteins show similarities across cell types, a discernible difference arises in their primary functions in regulating sEV biogenesis. The critical role of ALIX in MSC sEV biogenesis, in particular, underscores its potential as a target for modulating sEV yield in regenerative therapies. Through this comparative analysis, we identified shared molecular signatures, offering insights to guide therapeutic interventions and unlock the regenerative potential of stem cells.
Navigating the Post-Pandemic Era: Assessing Brand Responsibility and Public Response to Graphic Signage in Shopping Centers
Authors: Ariprahara Gema 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In the period following the outbreak of the pandemic, there has been notable transformation in individual behaviours and routines. Despite the persistent presence of COVID, shopping centers and malls have eased regulations for visitors in the post-pandemic phase. This study explores the use of graphic signage as a communication tool, particularly in the form of hazard signage, to assess how brand responsibility and the public respond on the post-pandemic period. This study uses a descriptive quantitative method. Through a purposive sample of 100 respondents representing shopping center visitors in Indonesia, this research aims to shed light on brand awareness, responsibility, and the effectiveness of graphic signage in ensuring public compliance with safety measures. The study's results reveal a decline in both brand responsibility and public awareness of health protocols. Consequently, graphic signage flooring emerges as a vital tool in raising visitor awareness through captivating visuals and straightforward messaging, subtly influencing their behaviour. This study provides valuable insights into the role of visual communication in shaping public behaviour and how shopping centers can maintain a conducive environment for public health in the post-pandemic era.