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Abstract: We collected main stem or branch cross-sections of 188 angiosperm woody species, which represent a wide range of climates and diverse families. Measurements of xylem vessel and phloem sieve element diameter, density, and lumen fraction were used in phylogenetic structural equation models to disentangle internal and climatic constraints on their morphological and anatomical features.
Keywords: adaptation, allometry, phloemsieve element, xylem vessel
Published in DiRROS: 25.09.2025; Views: 301; Downloads: 134
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Abstract: The genotyping workflow described uses digital PCR (dPCR) to detect and quantify drug resistance mutations in human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). The method focuses on the detection and quantification of three common mutations in the UL97 gene at codons 460, 594, and 595, which are responsible for the majority of ganciclovir-resistant clinical isolates. The dPCR approach offers high sensitivity and accuracy, making it suitable for routine testing as well as a reference measurement procedure for external quality assessment schemes. The workflow includes several key steps: DNA isolation, preparation of the dPCR reaction mixture, partitioning, thermocycling, and data analysis. This method improves the detection capabilities of HCMV drug resistance and provides a robust and efficient tool for clinical and research applications.
Keywords: digital PCR, human cytomegalovirus, antimicrobial drug resistance, mutations
Published in DiRROS: 25.09.2025; Views: 236; Downloads: 39
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Abstract: The antigenotoxic effects of methanolic extracts of Tartary (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) and common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) flour were evaluated against acrylamide-induced DNA damage. Acrylamide, a toxic food contaminant, was first identified in 2002 following its detection in Swedish food products. Our findings demonstrate that extracts from both buckwheat species significantly reduced DNA strand breaks. Tartary buckwheat contains higher levels of rutin, quercetin, and polyphenols, and exhibits greater antioxidant activity compared to common buckwheat. Due to endogenous rutin-degrading glucosidase activity, part of the rutin was enzymatically converted into quercetin. Processing generally decreased antioxidant activity, with the exception of wheat bread, where a slight increase was observed, likely attributed to Maillard reaction products. We confirmed that acrylamide induces genotoxic effects in HepG2 cells at all tested concentrations (0.3125, 0.625, 1.25, and 2.5 mM) after 24 hours of exposure, and that methanolic buckwheat extracts effectively reduced the formation of acrylamide-induced DNA damage. The extract from Tartary buckwheat demonstrated the highest antigenotoxic activity, surpassing even pure rutin or quercetin at higher concentrations. These results suggest that although thermal processing can generate potentially harmful compounds, such as acrylamide, food matrices may simultaneously contain bioactive components capable of counteracting or mitigating such adverse effects.
Keywords: common buckwheat, Tartary buckwheat, DNA damage, acrylamide, antigenotoxic
Published in DiRROS: 25.09.2025; Views: 291; Downloads: 102
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Abstract: Skin lipids and other semiochemicals of the integument of snakes act as chemical signals and have various functions, but the behavioural responses to semiochemicals are rarely studied. In this study, we isolated the scent of the Four-lined Snake (Elaphe quatuorlineata) both from a living individual and from shed skin. We then examined the tongue-ficking responses of these snakes to determine if isolated lipid extractions of snake skin could be recognized by conspecifcs. We detected that the snakes ficked their tongues more frequently when exposed to the scent of prey and shed skin extract than to a control with no scent. We also examined the infuence of ontogeny, with adult female snakes exhibiting higher relative tongue fick rates than subadult females. Elaphe quatuorlineata is protected and listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN, and these snakes are difcult to detect for biomonitoring purposes due to their elusive lifestyle. The use of semiochemicals that elicit behavioural responses could facilitate feld searches, improve knowledge of the species’ biology and behaviour, and contribute to its conservation.
Keywords: chemical communication, sexual cues, dietary cues, pheromones, behaviour, snakes, protected species
Published in DiRROS: 25.09.2025; Views: 250; Downloads: 107
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Abstract: This paper presents an analysis of energy use and sector coupling in a local energy community using a model based on energy cost centres (ECCs), functional units for decentralised responsibility and optimisation of energy use within defined system boundaries. The ECC model enables structured identification and optimisation of energy and material flows in complex industrial and urban settings. It was applied to a case study involving an energy-intensive steel plant and its integration with the surrounding community. The study assessed the potential for renewable electricity production (7914 MWh annually), green hydrogen generation, battery storage, and the reuse of 11,440 MWh of excess heat. These measures could offset 9598 MWh of grid electricity through local production and savings, reduce natural gas use by 4,116,850 Nm3, and lower CO2 emissions by 10,984 tonnes per year. The model supports strategic planning by linking sectoral actions to measurable sustainability indicators. It is adaptable to data availability and stakeholder engagement, allowing both high-level overviews and detailed analysis of selected ECCs. Limitations include heterogeneous data sources, uneven stakeholder participation, and the need for refinement of sub-models. Nonetheless, the approach offers a replicable framework for integrated energy planning and supports the transition to sustainable, decentralised energy systems
Published in DiRROS: 24.09.2025; Views: 236; Downloads: 79
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