Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Estimating Bobcat Population Sizes and Densities in a Fragmented Urban Landscape Using Noninvasive Capture–Recapture Sampling

Abstract Bobcats (Lynx rufus) are valuable indicators of connectivity in the highly fragmented landscape of coastal southern California, yet their population sizes and densities are largely unknown. Using noninvasive scat sampling in a capture–recapture framework, we estimated population sizes for 2 similar areas of natural habitat with differing levels of isolation by human development in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California. We used scat transects with geographic information system land-use layers and home-range sizes of bobcats to estimate effective sampling area and population densities. Estimates of population size in the study area connected to a much larger habitat area (26–31 individuals) were similar to estimates for the area that was completely surrounded by development (25–28 individuals). Bobcat densities for the 2 study areas also were similar (ranging from 0.25 to 0.42 bobcat/km2) and likely represent recent population declines because of notoedric mange likely interacting with toxicants. These methods proved effective despite particularly low densities of bobcats and may be especially useful when study areas are geographically isolated, reducing the uncertainty in size of the sampling area.
ECOLOGY AND LIFE HISTORY OF THE PIGEON MOUNTAIN SALAMANDER

Abstract Using previously preserved material, a minimal number of sacrificed specimens, unharmed live individuals, and field observations, we studied the life history and habitat of the Pigeon Mountain salamander (Plethodon petraeus). Individuals of this species are patchily distributed among various habitats including rock outcrops and cave entrances. They were most abundant relative to other species of salamanders where extensive outcrops were associated with cave openings. Females mature at a larger size (mininum of 65 mm SVL) than males (minimum of 56 mm) and grow to a greater maximum size (85 mm for females and 80 mm for males). The minimum age at maturity appears to be three years for males. Our data on testicular variation suggest that mating occurs during late winter and/or spring.
Quantity and Ratio of Pheromone Components Among Multiple Generations of the Nantucket Pine Tip Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Georgia and Virginia

Abstract The quantity and ratio of two sex pheromone components in the abdominal gland of Rhyacionia frustrana (Comstock) were determined for three generations from the Georgia Piedmont, two generations from the Georgia Coastal Plain, and one generation from the Virginia Coastal Plain. There were no significant differences among quantities of either pheromone component among any generations or collection sites. Quantities for the major component, (E)-9-dodecen-1-yl acetate, varied among the samples from 10.8 to 18.6 ng per adult female. Similarly, quantities for the minor component, (E)-9,11-dodecadien-1-yl acetate, varied from 0.5 to 0.9 ng per female. Ratios were significantly different only between the second generation Georgia Coastal Plain and first-generation Virginia Coastal Plain, although we do not think these differences are biologically meaningful. Pheromone component ratios for the major and minor component ranged from 16.5:1–23.4:1 among all sites. The significance of these findings as they relate to synthetic bait efficacy and decreased summer trap catches of male R. frustrana is discussed.
EFFECT OF NITROGEN AND SILICON NUTRITION ON BIOACTIVE GIBBERELLIN AND GROWTH OF RICE UNDER FIELD CONDITIONS

Gibberellins are growth hormones that play a pivotal role in the growth and development of plants. Present investigations were carried to check the effect of nitrogen (N) and silicon (Si) on bioactive GA1 and its immediate precursor GA20 at different growth stages of two rice cultivars with different maturity traits. It was observed that the endogenous bioactive GA1 level gradually increased during vegetative stage and anthesis stage of both Junghwabyeo (early flowering cultivar) and Daesanbyeo (late flowering cultivar). However, the GA1 and GA20 content start decreasing during the seed filling stage in both rice cultivars, which indicated a possible relationship of bioactive GA1 and floral development. Our results also confirmed that early 13-hydroxylation pathway was operated at all developmental stages of rice plant. Variation in the levels of the endogenous gibberellins in rice shoots were measured by GCMS-SIM using H2-labeled gibberellins as internal standards. Combined application of N and Si enhanced growth parameters and reduced lodging index of both rice cultivars. It was thus concluded that the level of physiologically active GA1 increased during vegetative and early reproductive stage, but starts declining at seed filling stage.
Nest Attributes, Aggression, and Breeding Success of Gulls in Single and Mixed Species Subcolonies

Abstract We investigated attributes of nests, aggressive interactions, and reproductive success in mixed and single species subcolonies of Great Black-backed Gulls (Larus marinus) and Herring Gulls (L. argentatus) on Appledore Island, Maine. Distances to the nearest neighboring nest were smaller for L. argentatus than L. marinus, with greatest distances between nests at edges of subcolonies in both species. More L. argentatus nests had natural screens (vegetation or rock >30 cm tall) adjacent to them than did L. marinus nests, but screen presence did not differ among nest positions within the colony. Clutch size did not differ between species; however, hatching success (number of chicks hatched per nest) was higher in L. argentatus than L. marinus. Fledging success (number of chicks fledged per nest) of L. marinus was greater at nests with heterospecific neighbors, whereas the opposite was true for L. argentatus. For both species, the frequency of aggressive interactions was lower at nests with L. argentatus neighbors. Overall, L. marinus nesting near L. argentatus experienced less aggression and greater reproductive success than those nesting among conspecifics, where intraspecific aggression was relatively high. L. argentatus nesting near L. marinus experienced more aggression and lower reproductive success than those nesting among conspecifics, where intraspecific aggression was relatively low. The costs and benefits of nesting in mixed species colonies may depend on the relative size and aggressiveness of the heterospecifics. Interactions with L. marinus in mixed species colonies may be contributing to the current declines of L. argentatus throughout New England.
ADHD Symptom Reduction in Elementary Students: A Single-Case Effectiveness Design

The authors used a single-case design to examine the effectiveness of child-centered play therapy (CCPT) and person-centered teacher consultation (PCTC) for four elementary students identified with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. Two students participated in CCPT and their teachers participated in PCTC. Two students participated in reading mentoring and CCPT. Behavioral observations of all students occurred three times per week. Results indicated that two students demonstrated a substantial reduction and two students demonstrated questionable reduction in ADHD symptoms due to participation in CCPT. Implications for elementary school counselors are discussed.
COMPARATIVE TOXICITIES OF THREE AGRO-INSECTICIDE FORMULATIONS ON NITRIFYING BACTERIA

The toxicity of three agro-insecticides - Lindane, Diazinon and Carbofuran formulations- on Nitrobacter and Nitrosomonas sp. were investigated. Changes in populations and activities of bacteria isolated from soil samples in the Niger Delta area were monitored following their exposure to different concentrations of the agro- insecticides for four hours. Results of toxicity studies revealed that the median lethal (LC50) and effective (EC50) concentrations of both Nitrobacter and Nitrosomonas sp. generally decreased with increase in exposure time. The LC50 of the three insecticide formulations for both Nitrobacter and Nitrosomonas sp. decreased thus: Carbofuran > Diazinon > Lindane (p 0.05). Four- hour EC50 of 53.31, 55.28, 66.00 mg/l (Nitrobacter sp.) and 59.31, 37.59, 51.34 mg/l (Nitrosomonas sp.) were obtained for Lindane, Diazinon and Carbofuran, respectively. The study also revealed that Nitrosomonas sp. was more sensitive to Lindane and Diazinon than Nitrobacter sp. although both bacteria exhibited similar sensitivity Carbofuran. The results suggest that autotrophic transformation by nitrifying bacteria in soil may be hindered following contaminations with these agro-insecticide formulations. (Ibiene AA and Okpokwasili GSC. COMPARATIVE TOXICITIES OF THREE AGRO-INSECTICIDE FORMULATIONS ON NITRIFYING BACTERIA. Report and Opinion 2011;3(12):14-17). (ISSN: 1553-9873). http://www.sciencepub. net/report
A note on the performance and management of calves reared on cold acidified milk replacer fed ad libitum

Results are presented from six trials dealing with aspects of management on the cold ad libitum system of calf rearing using an acidified milk replacer containing over 600 g skim milk powder per kg. Thirty-six calves were housed in pens of six for each trial and were fed through a teat and pipeline from a storage barrel. Acidified milk replacer, pH 5·6, was mixed cold at 125 g/1 and made available ad libitum to 3 weeks. A rationed allowance was given daily, on a reducing scale, over the following 2 weeks with weaning completed at 35 days. A pelleted dry food containing 180 g crude protein per kg, together with water in buckets and barley straw in racks, was available ad libitum throughout. Each trial lasted 8 weeks. Results for the mean of the six cold ad libitum trials involving 216 calves were compared with the mean results of 10 conventional bucket-fed trials carried out separately at the same unit, involving 912 calves. All calves were purchased British Friesian male (bull) calves. Calves on the ad libitum system showed improved live-weight gains of 9·4 kg at 3 weeks, 8·8 kg at 5 weeks and 7·5 kg at 8 weeks, compared with the conventional system. The consumption of milk replacer powder was higher in ad libitum trials at 29·4 kg cf. 12·5 kg by bucket but intake of pelleted dry feed was lower on the ad libitum system at 50·7 kg cf. 71·3 kg to 8 weeks. Calf appearance scores were significantly improved on the ad libitum system which gave the main improvement in performance in the first 3 weeks.
the Active Moiety of Oxaquin (MCB3837), in Gram-positive Bacteria with Vancomycin-, Linezolid-, Methicillin- and/or Ciprofloxacin Resistances.

Objective: MCB3681 is the active metabolite of the water soluble prodrug MCB3837 (Oxaquin); Oxaquin is derived from a quinolone and an oxazolidinone, linked with a spacer. MCB3681 was identified as a drug candidate for treatment of infections caused by multi-resistant and difficult to treat Gram-positive bacteria. As it is important to characterise the propensity for resistance development in the early phases of drug development, we quantified the potential of MCB3681 to select for singlestep- or multistep-resistance in selected strains with multiple resistance genotypes. Methods: Thirteen strains of Streptococci, Staphylococci, and Enterococci with and without genotyped resistances to vancomycin, linezolid and/or ciprofloxacin were tested. First, the bacteria were exposed for 18h at 37°C to MCB3681 concentrations ranging from two- to eight-times the individual MICs. The single step resistance frequencies (ssrf) were calculated by dividing the numbers of colonies growing on MCB3681 containing agar plates by the inoculum. Second, bacteria were exposed to sub inhibitory concentrations of MCB3681 for 7 days to elicit multi step resistance (msr). MICs were recorded daily. Results: No spontaneously resistant colonies were isolated following exposure of the fully susceptible or ciprofloxacin-, penicillin- and macrolide resistant S. pneumoniae isolates to two- to eight- times their MICs of MCB3681. The ssrf’s in Enterococci were low (1x10 -8 to 1x10 -7 ), even in the vanA- or vanB-, and linezolid-resistant strains. Likewise, the ssrf’s were low in the MSSA and MRSA reference strains of S. aureus, as well as in the VISA strain upon exposure to four-times their MICs of MCB3681 These numbers are in the same range as previously tested comparators like e.g. Moxifloxacin. Higher ssrf (3.4x10 -4 ) was recorded in a single MRSA clinical isolate, due to unknown reasons. The msr’s were low, too. The only strains showing a 2- to 3-fold increase in MICs of MCB3681 during the first three passages were vancomycin-resistant enterococci carrying the vanA or vanB glycopeptide resistance gene. In all other strains, the MICs increased by less than two dilution steps during the first three passages, confirming the low propensity for resistance development.
Movement and degradation of mancozeb fungicide and its metabolites, ethylenethiourea and ethyleneurea in silty clay loam soil

Abstract The persistence and movement of mancozeb and its metabolites, ethylenethiourea and ethyleneurea, in silty clay loam soil under Philippine field conditions were investigated using soil columns and radiotracer techniques. The degradation of mancozeb, ethylenethiourea (ETU) and ethyleneurea (EU) in soil showed a half‐life of 2.9, 2.5 and 4.8 days, respectively. Mancozeb remained in the first 2.5 cm of the topsoil fraction for 12 days only. The maximum depth of permeability for ETU was 8 cm up to 14 days after application, which was the same for EU up to 21 days. ETU degraded rapidly, with a 78% reduction at 3 days after application. It is concluded that the recommended agricultural practices for mancozeb application, under lowland conditions, should not lead to groundwater contamination by ETU.
RED-SHOULDERED HAWK NEST SITE SELECTION IN NORTH-CENTRAL MINNESOTA

Abstract We evaluated characteristics at Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) nest sites at two study areas with different topography and forest types in north-central and central Minnesota to identify nest site commonalities across geographically distinct areas. During the breeding seasons of 1994–1995, we located nests of Red-shouldered Hawks at the Camp Ripley Army National Guard Training Site and the Chippewa National Forest using a combination of broadcast surveys, helicopter searches, and systematic foot searches. All 38 nests at Camp Ripley and 18 nests in the Chippewa National Forest were in upland hardwood stands; the remaining two nests in the Chippewa National Forest were in aspen (Populus spp.) stands. We aged cores from 19 nest trees at Camp Ripley and measured habitat characteristics in a 0.04 ha circle centered on each nest tree and at a paired random site within the nest stand. We compared habitat variables at nest and random sites to identify habitat characteristics that were consistent predictors of nest sites versus random sites for each study area and for all nests combined. Compared to random sites, nest sites in the Chippewa National Forest had larger diameters at breast height (dbh) of the nest tree, taller nest tree height, and higher canopy height. At Camp Ripley, nest sites differed from random sites with regard to many more variables; nests were located in portions of the stand with larger trees and closer to surface water. Nest trees ranged in age from 50–89 years. Logistic regression models indicated that, for both study areas combined, nest tree dbh, basal area, canopy height, and distance to water were the most important variables in distinguishing nest sites from random sites.
Fracionamento químico da matéria orgânica e características de ácidos húmicos de solos com horizonte a antrópico da amazônia (Terra Preta)

Amazonian dark earth soils that have anthropogenic A horizon (Au) present high natural fertility usually attributed to their high organic matter content and to their higher reactivity. In this study humic substances were quantified and the humic acids (HA) extracted from the 0-20 cm layer of Amazonian dark earth soils (Terra Preta do Indio) under forest and agricultural use were characterized. Adjacent soils with no Au horizon were also investigated. The HA were characterized through the thermogravimetric analysis, elemental composition analysis and characterization of functional groups (total, carboxylic, and phenolic). The A horizon of the anthropogenic soils presented higher total carbon level compared to adjacent soils. Among the humic fractions, the humin was the most abundant. The humic acid fraction (HA) was the dominant among the alkaline soluble fractions. The humic acids of the anthropogenic soils, both under forest and cultivation, showed higher humification degree compared to the non-anthropogenic soils. The agricultural cultivation affected the humic acids stability and reactivity in the anthropogenic soils.
Effect of pre-storage salicylic acid, calcium chloride and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid dipping on chilling injury and quality of ‘Taify’ cactus pear fruit during cold storage

The effects of pre-storage salicylic acid (SA) calcium chloride (CaCl2) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) treatments on chilling injury (CI) and quality of cactus pear fruit during storage were investigated. The results showed that SA application at 2.0, 3.0 or 4.0 mM significantly decreased CI index compared to all the other treatments. Increasing SA rate to 3.0 or 4.0 mM did not result in a further reduction in CI index. However, CaCl2 (at 2, 3, and 4%) and 2,4-D (at 100, 150 and 200 ppm) had no effect on CI index. CI increased during storage and was higher at 30 than at 10 and 20 days of storage. Weight loss was not affected by any of the treatments but was higher at 10 than at 20 and 30 days of storage. Decay was not affected by any of the treatments but was higher at 30 than at 10 and 20 days of storage. Firmness was higher at 200 ppm 2,4-D than all the other treatments. Fruit acidity was not affected by any of the applied treatments but was lower at 20 and 30 days than at 10 days of storage. The pH of fruit juice increased during 30 days of storage and was lower in the SA treatments than the control. Total soluble solids (TSS) concentration was higher in the control than all the other treatments, except for the SA at 4.0 mM treatment. TSS concentration was higher at 10 than at 20 and 30 days of storage. Vitamin C concentration was lower at 20 than at 10 and 30 days of storage and was lower in the CaCl2 treatments than the control. Total phenols concentration increased during 30 days of storage and was lower in the CaCl2 and 2,4-D treatments than the control. It was concluded that prestorage SA dipping at 2.0 mM reduced chilling injury and retained quality of cactus fruit.
Big fat inequalities, thin privilege: An intersectional perspective on ‘body size’

This article aims to claim ‘body size’ as an increasingly important axis of signification. It draws on research from various disciplines to present an exploratory overview of the different ways in which body size categorizations – being (considered) fat or slender – intersect with other axes, such as gender, race, sexuality, social class and age. The article argues that an intersectional perspective on body size adds to our understanding of the layeredness and complexity of power differentials, normativities and identity formations that co-produce inequalities. Furthermore, it attempts to show how processes of exclusion and marginalization based on body size categorizations are similar to racist, ableist and misogynist logics and practices. Hereby the article intends to demonstrate the vast (negative) impact of body size categorizations, specifically but not exclusively on the lives of those who occupy the marked position in relation to this axis: the ‘fat’. It argues that an intersectional perspective helps us to see body size discrimination more clearly and can help disrupt dominant discourses about the body in order to create a truly ‘healthy’ environment in which bodies of all sizes, shapes, colours and abilities can be celebrated.
Effect of Ocimum sanctum extract on the induction of IFN-γ and IL-10 cytokines and their m-RNA expression

Ocimum sanctum (family -Labiatae) is the most sacred plant in India. Since ancient time it has been used by Ayurvedic practioners and laypersons for many health ailments and it has both medicinal and spiritual significance in Ayurveda. The effect of oral treatment with aqueous leaves extract of Ocimum sanctum on immune responses, concanavalin-A (ConA) stimulated spleen cell proliferation and cytokines (IFN-γ & IL-10) were analyzed. The wistar albino rats' model was used during the study. Feeding of Ocimum sanctum enhanced both types of immune responses: antibody titre against Salmonella Typhimurium ‘0’ antigen and cell mediated immune response using DNCB as an antigen. Daily uptake of 250mg/kg for 20 days by rats did not show any sign of toxicity. Spleen cells harvested from the treated rats in the presence of ConA showed increased proliferation. Wi star albino rats' spleen cells treated in vitro with different concentrations (25–500μg/ml) of Ocimum sanctum in presence of ConA also exhibited increase in their proliferation. A significant increase in IFN-γ production was also observed from the mitogen stimulated splenocytes obtained from treated rats while the IL-10 production was not significantly affected. But in vitro experiments the IL-10 production was significantly increased and the IFN-γ production was not markedly enhanced. Enhanced expression of IFN-γ m-RNA in spleen cells of rats after oral administration of Ocimum sanctum extract was also evaluated by the RT-PCR analysis and it demonstrated the increase in production of IFN-γ where as IL-10 m-RNA expression was not with a significant change.
The Use of Electronic Tags to Study Fish Movement: a case study with yellowtail flounder off New England

Archival tags enhance the interpretability and power of tagging studies, as illustrated by results from a mark-recapture study of yellowtail flounder off New England. Until recently, the well-studied yellowtail flounder was thought to be a "sedentary" fish, feeding on epibenthic fauna and limited to relatively shallow, sandy habitats. This strict habitat preference and the discontinuous distributions of such habitats were considered to limit movement among offshore banks and shelves, thereby maintaining geographic stock structure. However, recent information obtained from data-storage tags documents frequent off-bottom movements associated with movement to different habitats. Similar to results from historical tagging studies for yellowtail, a mark-recapture study off New England that began in 2003 confirms a low frequency of movement among stock areas. However, the movement likely involves passive drift in midwater currents, similar to patterns observed for other flatfish species. Therefore, the use of electronic tags reveals an important aspect of yellowtail behavior that was not apparent after decades of intense research.
Reversed Micellar Extraction of Hen Egg Lysozyme

Egg white was diluted to 10 times its original volume with 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 9.2) containing 0.1 M potassium chloride. The aqueous solution was mixed with an equal volume of isooctane containing 50 mM bis-(2-ethylhexyl) sodium sulfosuccinate at 10°C for 50 min. After extraction, the organic phase containing lysozyme was separated from the aqueous phase and mixed with an equal volume of 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 11.8) containing 1M potassium chloride. Backward extraction was then performed at 30°C for 45 min. The procedures recovered 90% lysozyme from the eggwhite. The specific activity of the extract was near 73,000 units/mg.