Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Interactions and patterns between species diversity and genetic diversity

Kahilainen, Aapo Interactions and patterns between species diversity and genetic diversity Jyvaskyla: University of Jyvaskyla, 2015, 45 p. (Jyvaskyla Studies in Biological and Environmental Science ISSN 1456-9701; 295) ISBN 978-951-39-6055-1 (nid.) ISBN 978-951-39-6056-8 (PDF) Yhteenveto: Vuorovaikutukset ja yhteydet lajistollisen ja geneettisen monimuotoisuuden valilla Diss. The similarities in the theories of community ecology and population genetics suggest that species diversity within and between communities and genetic diversity within and between populations are driven by the same four general mechanisms: (1) drift, (2) dispersal, (3) selection, and (4) the formation of new variants (i.e. speciation and mutation). Since, for both species diversity and genetic diversity, the relative significances of each of the first three mechanisms are very much influenced by characteristics of the environment, correlations between species diversity and genetic diversity, i.e. species-genetic diversity correlations (SGDCs), are expected. Considering that practical conservation most often focuses on species diversity (or surrogates thereof), SGDCs could provide information on how conservation and management decisions influence genetic diversities of populations, and thus also their viabilities. Furthermore, teasing apart the drivers of the SGDCs can offer mechanistic explanations for diversity and therefore suggest a process-based approach to conservation. I studied the generalizability of SGDC and the role of environmental characteristics by means of a literary review and empirical studies on natural dragonfly and damselfly communities. I then conducted individual-based simulations to assess how inbreeding depression due to loss of genetic diversity can influence extinction rates in neutral multispecies metacommunities. My results suggest that SGDCs are highly variable in natural systems and that interactions between ecologically similar species can influence their genetic structures. Therefore, the results question the utility of using species diversity or genetic structures of ecologically similar species as surrogates for genetic diversity of species of conservation concern. Furthermore, my results suggest that if intraspecific genetic diversity is not explicitly considered, the extinction rates in multispecies metacommunities might be underestimated.
Identification of a killer cell-specific regulatory element of the mouse perforin gene: an Ets-binding site-homologous motif that interacts with Ets-related proteins

The gene encoding the cytolytic protein perforin is selectively expressed by activated killer lymphocytes. To understand the mechanisms underlying the cell-type-specific expression of this gene, we have characterized the regulatory functions and the DNA-protein interactions of the 5'-flanking region of the mouse perforin gene (Pfp). A region extending from residues +62 through -141, which possesses the essential promoter activity, and regions further upstream, which are able to either enhance or suppress gene expression, were identified. The region between residues -411 and -566 was chosen for further characterization, since it contains an enhancer-like activity. We have identified a 32-mer sequence (residues -491 to -522) which appeared to be capable of enhancing gene expression in a killer cell-specific manner. Within this segment, a 9-mer motif (5'-ACAGGAAGT-3', residues -505 to -497; designated NF-P motif), which is highly homologous to the Ets proto-oncoprotein-binding site, was found to interact with two proteins, NF-P1 and NF-P2. NF-P2 appears to be induced by reagents known to up-regulate the perforin message level and is present exclusively in killer cells. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and UV cross-linking experiments revealed that NF-P1 and NF-P2 may possess common DNA-binding subunits. However, the larger native molecular mass of NF-P1 suggests that NF-P1 contains an additional non-DNA-binding subunit(s). In view of the homology between the NF-P motif and other Ets proto-oncoprotein-binding sites, it is postulated that NF-P1 and NF-P2 belong to the Ets protein family. Results obtained from the binding competition assay, nevertheless, suggest that NF-P1 and NF-P2 are related to but distinct from Ets proteins, e.g., Ets-1, Ets-2, and NF-AT/Elf-1, known to be expressed in T cells.
Etanercept: a clinical review of current and emerging indications

The recent development of inhibitors of TNF-α has provided the opportunity for a more targeted and highly effective approach to the treatment of chronic inflammatory illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis. Since the initial approval of etanercept as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, additional indications, including psoriatic arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, have also received FDA approval. More than 220,000 patients have been treated with etanercept so far. This review summarises the body of knowledge accumulated so far on etanercept (Enbrel®) since it entered the market 5 years ago.
A systematic review of the effects of euthanasia and occupational stress in personnel working with animals in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and biomedical research facilities.

BACKGROUND The study of occupational stress and compassion fatigue in personnel working in animal-related occupations has gained momentum over the last decade. However, there remains incongruence in understanding what is currently termed compassion fatigue and the associated unique contributory factors. Furthermore, there is minimal established evidence of the likely influence of these conditions on the health and well-being of individuals working in various animal-related occupations. OBJECTIVE To assess currently available evidence and terminology regarding occupational stress and compassion fatigue in personnel working in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and biomedical research facilities. DATA SOURCE Studies were identified by searching the following electronic databases with no publication date restrictions: ProQuest Research Library, ProQuest Social Science Journals, PsycARTICLES, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus, PsychINFO databases, and Google Scholar. Search terms included (euthanasia AND animals) OR (compassion fatigue AND animals) OR (occupational stress AND animals). STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS Only articles published in English in peer-reviewed journals that included use of quantitative or qualitative techniques to investigate the incidence of occupational stress or compassion fatigue in the veterinary profession or animal-related occupations were included. On the basis of predefined criteria, 1 author extracted articles, and the data set was then independently reviewed by the other 2 authors. RESULTS 12 articles met the selection criteria and included a variety of study designs and methods of data analysis. Seven studies evaluated animal shelter personnel, with the remainder evaluating veterinary nurses and technicians (2), biomedical research technicians (1), and personnel in multiple animal-related occupations (2). There was a lack of consistent terminology and agreed definitions for the articles reviewed. Personnel directly engaged in euthanasia reported significantly higher levels of work stress and lower levels of job satisfaction, which may have resulted in higher employee turnover, psychological distress, and other stress-related conditions. LIMITATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS Results of this review suggested a high incidence of occupational stress and euthanasia-related strain in animal care personnel. The disparity of nomenclature and heterogeneity of research methods may contribute to general misunderstanding and confusion and impede the ability to generate high-quality evidence regarding the unique stressors experienced by personnel working with animals. The present systematic review provided insufficient foundation from which to identify consistent causal factors and outcomes to use as a basis for development of evidence-based stress management programs, and it highlights the need for further research.
Effect of cisplatin containing liposomes formulated by unsaturated chain-containing lipids on gynecological tumor cells

Abstract Gynecological tumors are major therapeutic areas of platinum-based anticancer drugs. Here, we report the characterization and in vitro biological assays of cisplatin-containing Egg L-α-phosphatidylcholine liposomes with different amounts of cholesterol. Dynamic light scattering estimated sizes of all obtained liposomes in the 100 nm range that are suitable for in vivo use. On the basis of these data and of the drug loading values, the best formulation has been selected. Stability and drug release properties of platinum-containing liposomes have been verified in serum. The growth inhibitory effects of both liposomal and free drug in a panel of ovarian and breast human cancer cell lines, characterized by a different drug sensitivity, give comparable or better results with respect to free cisplatin drug.
Mobile-assisted language learning: effects on EFL vocabulary learning

The study examined the effect of self-paced use of smartphones as mobile learning tools on English as a foreign language EFL vocabulary learning. Ninety-three Taiwanese college students were assigned to two vocabulary learning groups. An independent-samples t-test performed on the groups' vocabulary pretest scores showed no significant difference between the two groups in terms of entry ability of English vocabulary at the outset of the experiment. During the 15-week treatment, the experimental group studied vocabulary through the mobile vocabulary learning application program whereas the control group studied the same learning materials in a paper-based format. After the study, the vocabulary post-test was administered to the two groups and their vocabulary scores were analysed and compared. The data showed a significant difference emerged between the groups, while the experimental group scored significantly higher than the control group. In addition, results of a post-treatment questionnaire given to the experimental group indicated positive learner attitudes towards mobile-assisted vocabulary learning.
The enteritis complex in domestic rabbits: A field study.

A study of the causative agents of enteritis in domestic rabbits from 44 different accessions is described. In descending order of frequency, the organisms most commonly demonstrated were intestinal and hepatic coccidia (Eimeria species), Escherichia coli, Clostridium spp. , Salmonella, Bacillus piliformis, and rotavirus. The species of Eimeria identified included those moderately pathogenic and coccidia of low pathogenicity. Using seven antisera against known enterpathogenic strains of E. coli, only one strain, O15, was identified in three cases. Clostridium perfringens or C. spiroforme was demonstrated in the intestinal contents in 11 cases, and lesions compatible with clostridial enteropathy were identified on gross and histopathology. In a serological survey, over 50% of 200 fryer rabbits submitted to Ontario abattoirs and of animals from commercial rabbitries had detectable antibody to rotavirus, indicating the widespread distribution of rotaviral infections in this species. In the cases of enteritis studied, two or more potentially pathogenic organisms were frequently identified, emphasizing that several different organisms may be acting in concert to produce clinical disease.
A novel image encryption algorithm based on discrete wavelet transform using two dimensional logistic map

In this paper a novel image encryption algorithm based on discrete wavelet transform (DWT) is proposed which uses two-dimensional logistic map as Private-Key. The algorithm uses Haar wavelet transform in order to generate image sub-bands which are used in encryption and decryption process and then two-dimensional logistic map is applied to the encrypted image in order to generate chaotic matrix which causes the encrypted image to be more secure. This chaotic matrix can also be used as a private-key in decryption process. The reversible proposed algorithm is evaluated with standard images and statistical techniques. The results show proposed algorithm possesses higher security and performance compared to the previous works.
An Examination of Determinants Influencing Consumer Adoption of SMS: A Perspective from Youth of Pakistan

The massive explosion of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has accelerated the rapid expansion of mobile phone services which has resulted in extensive use of short message service (SMS) throughout the world. SMS has become a vital part of users’ daily life causing the decrease in voice service revenue since it has facilitated broader form of communications. With limited research in Pakistan pertaining to what are the factors that determine consumers’ intention to use SMS, this study attempts to identify these factors and the extent to which they have influenced consumers’ intention to use SMS. It was hypothesized in this study that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment and perceived cost will have significant positive impact over intention to use SMS. All the hypotheses were supported except the hypothesis for perceived cost. A mail survey was conducted in different universities through self-administered structured questionnaire and the data was collected from 329 graduates and undergraduates of those universities applying the convenience sampling procedure. Data was tested against the research model using Pearson correlation and multiple regression approaches. The findings of this study provide an imminent perspective to mobile service providers to work on newly emerging non voice services and also to develop new SMS marketing strategies.
Effect of Verbal Self-Disclosure on Natural Killer Cell Activity: Moderating Influence of Cynical Hostility

One objective of the present research was to examine the immunological effects of self-disclosing personal information regarding a traumatic or stressful experience. A second objective was to examine the hypothesis that the effect of self-disclosure on immune function is moderated by individual differences in cynical hostility. Forty-three male college undergraduates, classified as high or low on the Cook-Medley Hostility scale were randomly assigned to either a verbal self-disclosure or a nondisclosure discussion condition. Task-induced change in natural killer (NK) cell activity (i.e., cytotoxicity) served as the dependent variable. As predicted, a significant interaction between discussion condition and hostility was obtained. Among subjects in the self-disclosure condition, high hostility subjects exhibited a significantly greater increase in NK cell cytotoxicity than low hostility subjects. The effect of self-disclosure on NK cell activity is moderated by an individual's level of cynical hostility. The greater short term enhancement in NK cell activity observed for hostile persons is a likely correlate of a more pronounced acute arousal response elicited by the self-disclosure task.
Photoinactivation of Viruses in Human Fresh Plasma by Phenothiazine Dyes in Combination with Visible Light

Abstract. We developed a photodynamic method to inactivate viruses in human fresh plasma. Single plasma bags were illuminated with visible light in the presence of low doses of phenothiazine dyes like methylene blue or toluidine blue. By this treatment the infectivity of different enveloped viruses including the causative agent of AIDS, HIV‐1, was completely removable from the plasma. Non enveloped viruses, however, proved to be more stable. The activities of clotting factors and other plasma proteins were only slightly decreased. There was no indication that the procedure led to important structural modifications of plasma proteins. The dyes are photodynamically active at concentrations much lower than those at which they are therapeutically used as antidots in the treatment of methemoglobinemia.
Seasonal factors influence quantal transmitter release and calcium dependence at amphibian neuromuscular junctions.

Amphibian neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) are composed of hundreds of neurotransmitter release sites that exhibit nonuniform transmitter release probabilities and demonstrated seasonal modulation. We examined whether recruitment of release sites is variable when the extracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]o) is increased in the wet and dry seasons. The amount of transmitter released from the entire nerve terminal increases by approximately the fourth power as [Ca2+]o is increased. Toad (Bufo marinus) NMJs were visualized using 3,3'-diethyloxardicarbocyanine iodide [DiOC2(5)] fluorescence, and focal loose patch extracellular recordings were used to record the end-plate currents (EPCs) from small groups of release sites. Quantal content (m̄e ), average probability of quantal release (pe ), and the number of active release sites (ne ) were determined for different [Ca2+]o Our results indicated that the recruitment of quantal release sites with increasing [Ca2+]o differs spatially (between different groups of release sites) and also temporally (in different seasons). These differences were reflected by the nonuniform alterations in pe and ne Most release site groups demonstrated an increase in both pe and ne when [Ca2+]o increased. In ~30% of release site groups examined, pe decreased while ne increased only during the active period (wet season). Although the dry season induced parallel right shift in the quantal release versus extracellular calcium concentration when compared with the wet season, the dependence of quantal content on [Ca2+]o was not changed. These results demonstrate the flexibility, reserve, and adaptive capacity of neuromuscular junctions in maintaining appropriate levels of neurotransmission.
What Is the Profiles for Predicting Treatment Responsiveness in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease? (Gut 2012;61:501-506)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has a high prevalence and an increasing incidence. Traditionally, 24-hour ambulatory pH monitoring has been recognized as a standard diagnostic test for GERD. However, compared with pH-alone monitoring, combined esophageal pH-impedance monitoring allows detection and characterization of all types of reflux episodes as well as their extent to the proximal esophagus.1 Previous studies with 24-hour ambulatory pH monitoring have demonstrated that patients with normal acid exposure have the lowest rate of response to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and patients with a positive symptom-reflux association have a better response to PPIs.2 This study was performed in 100 patients with typical GERD symptoms (heartburn and/or regurgitation) from 3 university hospitals.3 Among these patients, 48 patients had functional dyspepsia and 36 had irritable bowel syndrome. Patients were considered as responders to PPI therapy if they had fewer than 2 days of mild symptoms per week while receiving a standard or double dose of PPI treatment for at least 4 weeks. Patients were considered to be non-responders if they had more than 2 days of mild symptoms per week while receiving a standard or double dose of PPI treatment for at least 4 weeks. Forty-three patients were considered as PPI responders and 57 as non-responders. All responders and non-responders were referred for 24 hour pH-impedance monitoring in order to demonstrate the presence of pathologic GER. Esophageal impedance-pH monitoring was performed using a Sleuth Multi-channel Intraluminal Impedance ambulatory system (Sandhill Scientific, Highland Ranch, CO, USA). Both clinical and reflux parameters were taken into account for analysis. The authors demonstrated that the factors associated with the absence of response were absence of esophagitis (P = 0.050), body mass index (BMI) of ≤ 25 kg/m2 (P = 0.004) and functional dyspepsia (FD) (P = 0.001). However, no reflux pattern associated with PPI failure was demonstrated by 24 hour pH-impedance monitoring. They performed analysis in different subgroups of patients. In patients who reported symptoms during the recording (n = 85), the factors associated with PPI failure were BMI ≤ 25 kg/m2 (P =0.004), FD (P = 0.009) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (P = 0.045). In patients who documented GERD (n = 67), the factors associated with PPI failure were absence of esophagitis (P = 0.040), FD (P = 0.003), IBS (P = 0.012) and BMI ≤ 25 kg/m2 (P = 0.029). Therefore, they concluded that absence of esophagitis, presence of functional digestive disorders and BMI ≤ 25 kg/m2 were strongly associated with PPI failure. And no reflux pattern demonstrated by 24 hour pH-impedance monitoring is associated with response to PPIs in patients with GERD symptoms.
Repeatability of Ocular Response Analyzer waveform parameters in normal eyes and eyes after refractive surgery.

PURPOSE To study the repeatability of the biomechanical waveform parameters measured with the Ocular Response Analyzer (Reichert Ophthalmic Instruments, Depew, NY) device in normal eyes and eyes after refractive surgery. METHODS This was a prospective, comparative non-interventional study of a case series. Two hundred eyes of 100 patients were divided into five groups: normal eyes of patients younger than 30 years, normal eyes of patients between 30 and 50 years old, normal eyes of patients older than 50 years, eyes of patients with a history of LASIK, and eyes of patients with a history of photorefractive keratectomy. The repeatability of the 37 waveform parameters in addition to corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), IOP measurement with Goldmann applanation tonometer (IOPg), and IOP evaluated with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (IOPcc) were examined. RESULTS In addition to IOPg, IOPcc, CRF, and CH, five parameters had an ICC greater than 0.6 (substantial agreement): P1area, the area of peak 1 (ICC = 0.823); P2area, the area of peak 2 (ICC = 0.646); h1, the height of peak 1 (ICC= 0.702); P1area1, the area of peak 1 derived from the upper 50% of the applanation peak (ICC = 0.772); and h11, the height of peak1 derived from the upper 50% of the applanation peak 1 (ICC = 0.697). CONCLUSIONS This study shows that not all parameters derived from the corneal deformation waveform signal have the same repeatability. Therefore, analysis of the waveform indices should rely on the more repeatable ones to derive consistent conclusions.
Nuclear and mitochondrial DNA reveals isolation of imperilled grey nurse shark populations (Carcharias taurus)

Loss of sharks and other upper‐trophic marine predators has sparked worldwide concern for the stability of ocean ecosystems. The grey nurse (ragged‐tooth or sand tiger) shark (Carcharias taurus) is Vulnerable on a global scale, Critically Endangered in Australia and presumed extinct in parts of its historical range. We used 193 muscle and fin samples collected from six extant populations to assess global mtDNA and microsatellite diversity and the degree of global population genetic structure. Control region mtDNA diversity was low in every population, and two populations (eastern Australia and Japan) contained only a single mtDNA haplotype. Genetic signatures of recent losses of genetic variation were not yet apparent at microsatellite loci, indicating that this low mtDNA variation is not a result of anthropogenic population declines. Population differentiation was substantial between each population pair except Brazil and South Africa, FST values ranged from 0.050 to 0.699 and 0.100 to 1.00 for microsatellite and mitochondrial data respectively. Bayesian analysis clearly partitioned individuals into five of the populations from which they were sampled. Our data imply a low frequency of immigrant exchange among each of these regions and we suggest that each be recognized as a distinct evolutionary significant unit. In contrast to pelagic species such as whale shark and white shark that may cross ocean basins and where cooperative international efforts are necessary for conservation, grey nurse shark, like many coastal species, need to be managed regionally.