Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Multi-environment response in seed yield of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill], genotypes through GGE biplot technique.

Multi-environment data of 7 different locations for seed yield of 182 soybean diverse genotypes were analyzed. The objectives were to find out the 1) homogenous groups of similar genotypes and similar environments through cluster analysis 2) genotypic main effects and genotype environment interaction (GGE) in graphic display which make able visual evaluation of both genotypes and environments and 3) performance of genotypic groups across environments and environmental groups over genotypes through biplot. Analysis of variance of seed yield revealed 13.12% genotypic and 47.93% environmental effect. While, partitioning into groups of each genotype, environment and their interaction effects were observed 80.84%, 95.8% and 60.86% respectively. Maximum (means) seed yield 15.94 + 0.18g plant -1 was observed for Grp-8 followed by Grp-9 with the value of 14.90 + 0.97g plant -1 while, minimum seed yield 7.53 + 0.48g was observed for Grp-10. The fusion level of 7 environments revealed 3 location (Islamabad, Mingora and Mansehra) in main group A and 4 locations (Faisalabad, Quetta, Gilgit and Tandojam) were in main group B. Fifteen genotypic groups derived from 182 genotypes have 3 main groups A, B and C. Genotypic group having large distance from origin has a large genotype plus interaction as Grp-9 and Grp-3. Coordination of three dimensions biplot for any one G or E showed small angle for similar type and large for dissimilar to each other, while larger projection of a genotypic group on an environment vector has more and this genotypic group deviates from the average in the environment.
Parental reports of children’s biological knowledge and misconceptions

Children’s misconceptions about five specific biological concepts—life, aging, reproduction, illness, and death—were investigated using a parent survey. Parents of 3- to 4-year-olds (N 1/4 125) and parents of 5- to 6-year-olds (N 1/4 145) completed a questionnaire about their child’s knowledge and misconceptions involving these concepts. Parents reported that misconceptions were common among 3- to 6-year-olds, particularly for reproduction and death. Parents reported a greater reluctance to talk with their children about death and reproduction and also thought their children should learn about these concepts at a later age than other biological concepts. One third of the misconceptions reported by parents occurred at the boundary between different domains, where information from another domain (i.e., physics or psychology) was incorrectly associated with the biological domain. Parents of 5- to 6-year-olds reported fewer misconceptions than parents of 3- to 4-year-olds, suggesting that these misconceptions are open to change and are eventually replaced by accurate biological knowledge.
Educational Expansion, Occupational Closure and the Relation between Educational Attainment and Occupational Prestige over Time

This article considers changes in the association between educational attainment and occupational prestige in Germany over time. We argue that the link between attainment and occupational prestige has become weaker over time because of compositional changes in graduate occupational destinations. Prior to higher education expansion, the small elite group of graduates tended to access the occupationally closed and thus more prestigious professions on graduation. As higher education participation expanded, however, an increasing proportion of graduates found employment in less prestigious and more diverse graduate jobs. The results confirm our theoretical expectations. The association between educational attainment and occupational prestige has decreased over time as graduates entered a broader range of jobs and their relative advantage over those with lower levels of qualifications decreased. This can, in fact, be attributed to a merely compositional change among graduates’ occupational destinations from prestigious professions towards less prestigious free-market graduate occupations.
Cognitive Impairment and the Diabetic Brain

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are the two most common and devastating health problems in the elderly. DM is a known risk factor for the development of cognitive dysfunction and dementia. Epidemiological and biological evidences support a link between type 2 DM (T2DM) and AD, but the precise mechanisms involved in the development of cognitive impairment in diabetics are not fully understood. Possible pathogenic pathways include genetic factors, ageing, ApoE status, hypo- and hyperglycaemia, cardiovascular risk factors, hypertension, obesity, multimorbidity and other factors the impact of which is in the focus of current research. Since disturbances of insulin signal transduction may be of pathogenic relevance in AD and related dementias, insulin and other antidiabetic drugs may be effective in slowing cognitive decline and may have neuroprotective effects in AD high-risk patients.
Residual effects of superficial liming on tropical soil under no-tillage system

The objective of this work was to evaluate the long-term effects of the surface application of lime on soil fertility and on the mineral nutrition and grain yield of soybean, and of black oat and sorghum in crop succession. The experiment was carried out on a clayey Oxisol, in a randomized complete block design, with four replicates. Treatments consisted of lime the rates of 0, 1,000, 2,000, and 4,000 kg ha-1, applied in October 2002 and November 2004. Soil samples were collected at five soil layers, down to 0.60-m depth. Surface liming was effective in reducing soil acidity and increasing Ca2+ and Mg2+ contents in the subsurface. Moreover, it increased available phosphorus contents and soil organic matter in the long term (48 to 60 months after the last lime application). Surface liming improved plant nutrition, mainly for N, Ca, and Mg, and increased dry matter production and grain yield of the crops, even in years with regular distribution of rainfall. The greatest productivities of soybean, black oat, and sorghum were obtained with the respective estimated lime doses of 4,000, 2,333, and 3,281 kg ha-1, for shoot dry matter, and of 2,550, 3,555, and over 4,000 kg ha-1, for grain yield.
Expression and Secretion of the Insulin-like Growth Factor System Components by Pig Liver Cells*

The aim of the present study was to delineate the expression and secretion of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system components by pig liver cells. Hepatocytes were prepared from 3-wk-old weanling piglets following a two-step collagenase perfusion procedure, after which the cells were incubated for 24 or 48 h at a density of 2×10 5 cells per 35-mm dish in 2-ml Williams' medium E. The cells were found to express the genes encoding IGF-I, IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs)-2 and -3 and acid-labile subunit (ALS) by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) following the culture. However, IGF-I was localized to hepatocytes by immunohistochemical analysis, whereas IGFBP-3 was localized to endothelial cells, but not to hepatocytes. This indicated that the IGFBP-3 gene expression detected by RT-PCR was likely to have been contributed by unidentified non-parenchymal cells that had not been removed during the hepatocyte preparation. The conditioned culture medium (CCM) of the cells contained immunoreactive IGF-I and IGF-II, with the latter being seven-fold more abundant than the former. The CCM also contained 43-, 40-, 34-, 31-kDa doublet and 26-kDa IGFBPs as examined by Western ligand blotting. The 40-, 34- and 31-kDa doublet IGFBPs were approximately three-fold as abundant as the 43- and 26-kDa IGFBPs. Moreover, the 43- and 40-kDa doublet and the 34-kDa IGFBPs were immunoprecipitable with IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-2 antibodies, respectively. Overall, these results are similar to those known in the rat, which suggests that the IGF system components are likely to be expressed and secreted in pig liver in a manner similar to that in rat liver. (Key Words : IGF, IGFBP, Gene Expression, Hepatocyte, Pig)
Soil Health Indicators Do Not Differentiate among Agronomic Management Systems in North Carolina Soils

Recent soil tests evaluating “soil health” on a broad scale may not properly consider the intrinsic limitations of soil properties, and have not been assessed in regionally unique soil conditions. To evaluate three soil tests in North Carolina, we used long-term agronomic management trials from three distinct physiographic regions: mountain (22 yr), piedmont (32 yr), and coastal plain (17 yr). Mountain and coastal plain trials included combinations of organic or chemical management with or without tillage; the piedmont trial included nine different tillage treatments. Soil samples were collected and submitted for analysis as recommended by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Haney soil health test (HSHT), and Cornell comprehensive assessment of soil health (CASH). Plant nutrient concentrations varied but were still sufficient for crops. The CASH physical soil indicators, such as surface hardness and aggregate stability, were not statistically different, regardless of tillage intensity or management. Biological soil indicators (e.g., CO₂ respiration) responded differently to management, but this differentiation was inconsistent among locations and tests. Despite many years of conservation management, the CASH results described mountain soils as “low” or “very low” soil health for all but no-till organic management, which received a “medium” score. The HSHT results considered soil from all but moldboard plowing (piedmont) to be in good health. Finally, there was no correlation between soil health tests and crop yields from North Carolina soils. Soil health tests should be calibrated to better differentiate among soil management effects that vary depending on intrinsic soil limitations.
Università di Milano – Bicocca Quaderni di Matematica Differential Equations in Metric Spaces with Applications

This paper proves the local well posedness of differential equations in metric spaces under assumptions that allow to comprise several different applications. We consider below a system of balance laws with a dissipative non local source, the Hille-Yosida Theorem, a generalization of a recent result on nonlinear operator splitting, an extension of Trotter formula for linear semigroups and the heat equation. 2000 Mathematics Subject Classification: 34G20, 47J35, 35L65.
A lithosphere-scale structural model of the Barents Sea and Kara Sea region

Abstract. We introduce a regional 3-D structural model of the Barents Sea and Kara Sea region which is the first to combine information on the sediments and the crystalline crust as well as the configuration of the lithospheric mantle. Therefore, we have integrated all available geological and geophysical data, including interpreted seismic refraction and reflection data, seismological data, geological maps and previously published 3-D models into one consistent model. This model resolves four major megasequence boundaries (earliest Eocene, mid-Cretaceous, mid-Jurassic and mid-Permian) the top crystalline crust, the Moho and a newly calculated lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary (LAB). The thickness distributions of the corresponding main megasequences delineate five major subdomains (the northern Kara Sea, the southern Kara Sea, the eastern Barents Sea, the western Barents Sea and the oceanic domain comprising the Norwegian–Greenland Sea and the Eurasia Basin). Relating the subsidence histories of these subdomains to the structure of the deeper crust and lithosphere sheds new light on possible causative basin forming mechanisms that we discuss. The depth configuration of the newly calculated LAB and the seismic velocity configuration of the upper mantle correlate with the younger history of this region. The western Barents Sea is underlain by a thinned lithosphere (80 km) resulting from multiple Phanerozoic rifting phases and/or the opening of the NE Atlantic from Paleocene/Eocene times on. Notably, the northwestern Barents Sea and Svalbard are underlain by thinnest continental lithosphere (60 km) and a low-velocity/hot upper mantle that correlates spatially with a region where late Cenozoic uplift was strongest. As opposed to this, the eastern Barents Sea is underlain by a thicker lithosphere (~ 110–150 km) and a high-velocity/density anomaly in the lithospheric mantle. This anomaly, in turn, correlates with an area where only little late Cenozoic uplift/erosion was observed.
The dynamics of price discovery for cross-listed stocks evidence from US and Chinese markets

Abstract Purpose: This study examines how, and to what extent the trading of the cross-listed China-backed ADRs on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) contributes to the information flow and price discovery for the corresponding cross-listed stocks on the Shanghai Stock exchange (SSE). Design/methodology/approach: The study utilizes the information share, Granger causality test, Vector error correction model, Permanent–Temporary Gonzalo–Granger (PT/GG) method and Bivariate DCC-EGARCH model to examine the price discovery dynamics across the cross-listed stocks. Findings: The Granger causality tests show that there is two-way transmission on feedback between the Chinese and US markets. The effects from NYSE to SSE are larger than the other way round. The Bivariate DCC-EGARCH model test results indicate the volatility spill over from NYSE is larger from the SSE. Practical implications: Results suggest that in contrast to previous studies that showed very little contribution to price discovery by Chinese ADRs on the NYSE, the present study indicates that the contribution to price-discovery of Chinese ADRs on NYSE has increased relative to the past, suggesting the importance of changing time frames and economic situations. Originality/value: The study differentiates between long-term and short-term price discovery effects and finds that home country bias persists in the long term and in the short term the information from the Cross-listed China-backed ADRs on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) affects price discovery for SSE stocks.
Pelletized feed of different particle sizes: effects on performance, carcass characteristics and intestinal morphology of two strains of broiler chicken.

This study was conducted to determine the effects of feeding pelletized feeds of different particle sizes on the performance, carcass characteristics and intestinal morphology of two strains of broiler chickens. A total of one hundred and eighty (180) birds consisting of 90 birds each of Marshal MY and Hubbard strains of broiler chicken were used in the experiment. They were brooded for 14 days and thereafter divided into two treatment groups, namely, fed with feed of different particle sizes of 1 and 2mm. These were further divided into 3 replicates of 15 chicks and the experimental period was 42 days. The performance of the chicks was monitored weekly. At week eight, 3 birds per replicate were randomly selected, weighed, slaughtered via neck slit, defeathered, singed and eviscerated for carcass evaluation. The intestinal morphometry and histomorphometry of the birds were analysed. Data collected were arranged in a 2 x 2 factorial layout and subjected to 2-way Analysis of Variance. Significant (P<0.05) differences were observed in the final weight, weight gain and protein efficiency ratio with Hubbard strain having better values than Marshal. Mortality (P<0.05) was lower in the birds fed with feed particle size of 2 mm. In addition, significantly (P<0.05) higher values were obtained in the head, drum stick, shank and keel of birds fed with feed with particle size of 2mm. Meanwhile, the highest (P<0.05) villus height was recorded
New Roles for a Changing Environment: Implications of Open Access for Libraries

This article examines the likely implications of open access on library operations. The context of the examination takes place assuming that the traditional model of publication and open access coexist. Open access presents numerous challenges and opportunities, but entrepreneurial libraries will find new ways to serve their patrons in the new mixed open-access–traditional (MOA) environment. In order to do so, these libraries will need to redesign their organization and this can be expected to stretch both monetary and human resources.
Effect of High Temperature during the Seed Development on Quality and Chemical Composition of Chili Pepper Seeds

An analysis was performed on chili pepper (Capsicum annuum (L.) cv. Huay Si Thon and Shishito) seed vigor and quality produced by plants grown under control and high temperature conditions (29} 2/24}2 and 36 + 2/27} 2, mean day and night temperatures, respectively) after anthesis to elucidate the effect of high temperature during seed development on seed quality. High temperature significantly reduced fruit growth in both varieties . More than 20 % of the seeds produced under the high temperature regime were flat with a dark brown color and did not germinate. High temperature inhibited seed fresh and dry weight increase and the seed size was slightly reduced. Standard germination of Huay Si Thon and Shishito seeds occurring under the high temperature conditions was lower than that of the control seeds by 28 and 25 %, respectively. Similarly, seed vigor was reduced, as evidenced by the reduction in the accelerated aging germination rate and the higher value of the germination index. Protein content was maximal during the early stages of seed development and decreased afterwards continuously during the seed maturation stage, while no conspicuous reduction of the protein content by heat was observed. High temperature reduced the carbohydrate content of seeds by 40 % in Huay Si Ton and 50 % in Shishito, respectively. High temperature reduced the lipid content to less than half. These results suggested that high temperature during seed development reduced chili pepper seed germination and vigor, presumably due to the limitation in the accumulation of storage products, especially carbohydrates, and lipids.
Tropical cyclones and climate change: unresolved issues

This paper reviews our current understanding of the effect of climate change on tropical cyclones. While there are presently no discernible changes in tropical cyclone characteristics that could reasonably be ascribed to global warming, predictions suggest some increases in tropical cyclone maximum intensity in a warmer world. Formation regions are unlikely to change, while little consensus has emerged regarding changes in cyclone numbers or tracks. Some uncertainty in these predictions is created by clear deficiencies in current climate models. If predictions of intensities are correct, however, changes should be detectable in the Atlantic some time after 2050.
Seasonal changes in the physiological activity of regeneration under a natural light gradient in a Pinus pinea regular stand

Seasonal courses of chlorophyll a fluorescence, gas exchange parameters and water status, joined to environmental variables, were measured in four age classes of stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) natural regeneration under a natural light gradient in a stone pine regular stand throughout 2007 and 2008. One-year old seedlings were worse adapted to the extreme drought conditions recorded in summer (especially in 2008), showing lower predawn and midday Fv/Fm values, slightly lower photosynthetic rates at midday, lower PSII values, lower water potentials (pd andmin), and high mortality (90%). The oldest seedlings (class 4, 51-200 cm high), although they do not experience the lowest min in July 2008, were not able to maintain a positive carbon gain at midday, even showing the lowest photosynthetic rates. However, they rapidly recovered once the climatic conditions were softened in early autumn. During late autumn low Fv/Fm values were found especially in one-year old seedlings, indicating that maximal photochemical efficiency of PSII is sensitive to the autumn temperatures below cero recorded during both years. Thus, stone pine regeneration adapts its physiology to the seasonal course of temperature and water availability, showing a different photosynthetic performance according to age class. However, seedling physiology is not affected by the natural light gradient found in the studied stand, probably related to the low variability recorded in GSF values and the low density of the stand. We suggest that such low stand densities cannot assure one-year old seedlings’ survival, but are sufficient for older seedlings.
Nest-site selection by Kittlitz's Murrelets Brachyramphus brevirostris on Kodiak Island, Alaska

LAWONN, M.J., ROBY, D.D. , PIATT, J.F. , PYLE, W.H. , CORCORAN, R.M. 2018. Nest-site selection by Kittlitz’s Murrelets Brachyramphus brevirostris on Kodiak Island, Alaska. Marine Ornithology 46: 33–42. We studied aspects of nest-site selection by Kittlitz’s Murrelet Brachyramphus brevirostris on Kodiak Island, Alaska, during 2008–2011. We discovered 54 Kittlitz’s Murrelet nests on the surface of mountain slopes between 188 and 454 m above sea level, in an area devoid of glaciers. Nests were dispersed across the landscape, with an annual average of 0.09 nests/ha of habitat searched. Four nests were reused in separate study years, and 10 additional nests were located within 60 m of a nest site active in a previous study year. Nest scrapes were most often shallow, circular depressions in gravel situated among larger rocks and immediately downslope of one or more prominent moderateto large-sized rocks. We compared the habitat characteristics of plots centered on nest sites (nest plots) with those of randomly selected locations within 150 m of nests (near-nest plots) and within the entire area where nest searching was conducted (random plots). Mean percent vegetation cover on nest plots was less than half that of near-nest and random plots (6.6%, 14.0%, 16.3%, respectively). The percent cover of rocks 10–30 cm diameter was higher, and percent cover of rocks >30 cm diameter was lower at nest plots compared with near-nest and random plots. Nest plots were located on steeper slopes (mean 29°) than near-nest and random plots (27° and 25°, respectively) and farther from edges of continuous vegetation (mean 79 m) than near-nest and random plots (mean 64 m and 63 m, respectively). Nest survival was unrelated to selected habitat variables, although our sample size may have been too small to detect an effect. The high dispersion of active nests and sparse vegetation in areas surrounding nest sites suggest that nest-site preference by Kittlitz’s Murrelets may reflect an ecological strategy to minimize nest predation.