Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic metacommunity ecology of cladoceran zooplankton along urbanization gradients

As human population size increases and cities become denser, several urban-related selection pressures increasingly affect species composition in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Yet, it is not well known whether and how urbanization influences other facets of biodiversity, such as the functional and evolutionary composition of communities, and at what spatial scale urbanization acts. Here we used a hierarchical sampling design in which urbanization levels were quantified at seven spatial scales (ranging from 50 to 3200 m radii). We found that urbanization gradients are associated with a strong shift in cladoceran zooplankton species traits, which in turn affected phylogenetic composition of the entire metacommunity, but only when considering urbanization at the smallest spatial scale (50 m radius). Specifically, small cladoceran species dominated in more urbanized ponds whereas large-bodied, strong competitors prevailed in less urbanized systems. We also show that trait and phylogenetic metrics strongly increase the amount of variation in β-diversity that can be explained by degree of urbanization, environmental and spatial factors. This suggests that the mechanisms shaping β-diversity in our study system are mediated by traits and phylogenetic relatedness rather than species identities. Our study indicates that accounting for traits and phylogeny in metacommunity analyses helps to explain seemingly idiosyncratic patterns of variation in zooplankton species composition along urbanization gradients. The fact that urbanization acts only at the smallest spatial scale suggests that correctly managing environmental conditions locally has the power to counteract the effects of urbanization on biodiversity patterns. The multidimensional approach we applied here can be applied to other systems and organism groups and seems to be key in understanding how overall biodiversity changes in response to anthropogenic pressures and how this scales up to affect ecosystem functioning.
Utilizing a Photo-Analysis Software for Content Identifying Method (CIM)

Abstract Content Identifying Methodology or (CIM) was developed to measure public preferences in order to reveal the common characteristics of landscapes and aspects of underlying perceptions including the individual's reactions to content and spatial configuration, therefore, it can assist with the identification of factors that influenced preference. Regarding the analysis of landscape photographs through CIM, there are several studies utilizing image analysis software, such as Adobe Photoshop, in order to identify the physical contents in the scenes. This study attempts to evaluate public’s ‘preferences for aesthetic qualities of pedestrian bridges in urban areas through a photo-questionnaire survey, in which respondents evaluated images of pedestrian bridges in urban areas. Two groups of images were evaluated as the most and least preferred scenes that concern the highest and lowest mean scores respectively. These two groups were analyzed by CIM and also evaluated based on the respondent’s description of each group to reveal the pattern of preferences and the factors that may affect them. Digimizer Software was employed to triangulate the two approaches and to determine the role of these factors on people’s preferences. This study attempts to introduce the useful software for image analysis which can measure the physical contents and also their spatial organization in the scenes. According to the findings, it is revealed that Digimizer could be a useful tool in CIM approaches through preference studies that utilizes photographs in place of the actual landscape in order to determine the most important factors in public preferences for pedestrian bridges in urban areas.
Antimicrobial activities of essential oil and methanol extract of Boswellia sacra Flueck. and Boswellia papyrifera (Del.) Hochst from Djibouti

Boswellia sacra and Boswellia papyrifera belong to the family of Burseraceae. The daily and ritual use of Boswellia is characteristic cultural of the horn of Africa which transcends the ethical and religious memberships. Plants samples of Boswellia sacra and Boswellia papyrifera were collected in Djibouti. The essential oil and methanol extracts of each plant were collected. They were evaluated for its antimicrobial activity using disc diffusion and microdilution methods. The essential oil and methanol extract of Boswellia showed activity against bacterial species than against yeast.
Dynamique d’activité saisonnière des tiques ixodidés parasites des bovins dans deux étages bioclimatiques du nord-est algérien

Monthly monitoring of the infestation by ticks of 48 cattle head in six farms was performed in the wilayas (districts) of Mila (semiarid climate) and El Tarf (humid climate) in Algeria, between April 2006 and March 2007. In total, 7024 ticks belonging to four genera and ten species of Ixodidae were collected: Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus (62.7% of collected ticks) R. turanicus (13.6%), Hyalomma scupense (13.6%), Rhipicephalus bursa (7.7%), H. marginatum (4.7%), H. excavatum (3.9%), H. anatolicum (2.3%), Haemaphysalis punctata (1.5%), Ixodes ricinus (0.7%), and Hyalomma lusitanicum (0.4%). R. annulatus (77.7%) was the most frequent species in El Tarf, whereas H. scupense (39.2%) and R. bursa (17.7%) were dominant in Mila. Many Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus species had a continuous activity throughout the year, with maximum intensity in summer for R. annulatus and H. Scupense, and from spring to fall for R. bursa. The abundance of mesophilic species was low, with winter activity for I. ricinus (exclusively present in El Tarf), and fall activity for Hae. punctata (exclusively present in Mila). The intensity of infestation was significantly higher in adult cattle than in calves under one year old. Tick phenology sometimes differed depending on neighboring countries, showing thus the highly adaptive capability of ticks and the need to carry out regional studies before implementing any control program against ticks or the pathogens they transmit.
Apolipoprotein A-I Self-Association and the Formation of High Density Lipoprotein

It is generally accepted that apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), the main protein constituent of high density lipoprotein (HDL), forms a dimeric antiparallel structure that confers nascent HDL function and stability and provides a scaffold for the lipid phase. Moreover, while the truncated lipid-free apoA-I crystal structures suggest more compact helical bundle structure, the solution structure of full length lipid-free apoA-I is unclear, and the mechanism of how monomeric lipid-free apoA-I associates in antiparallel fashion during HDL formation is shrouded in mystery. Here in this study we performed hydrogendeuterium exchange (HDX) and lipidation kinetic analyses of monomeric and multimeric (predominantly dimeric) apoA-I employing both mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) and functional lipidation assays. At lower concentration (0.07 mg/ml) lipid-free apoA-I is monomeric (based on equilibrium PAGE and cross-linking studies) and exhibits multiple discrete yet reproducible regions with bimodal HDX kinetics indicative of the existence of distinct populations of molecules that have domains with alternative secondary structure (random coil vs. helical). Kinetic HDX studies further reveal that at higher concentration (0.7 mg/ml) lipid-free apoA-I self-association promotes a conformational change of the Cterminus domain E223-A232 from random coil to -helix. Surprisingly, apoA-I selfassociation seems to bury E223-A232 within the binding interface, which significantly slows
The Truncation-by-Death Problem: What to Do in an Experimental Evaluation When the Outcome Is Not Always Defined

Although experiments are viewed as the gold standard for evaluation, some of their benefits may be lost when, as is common, outcomes are not defined for some sample members. In evaluations of marriage interventions, for example, a key outcomeâ€”relationship qualityâ€”is undefined when a couple splits up. This article shows how treatment-control differences in mean outcomes can be misleading when outcomes are not defined for everyone and discusses ways to identify the seriousness of the problem. Potential solutions to the problem are described, including approaches that rely on simple treatment-control differences-in-means as well as more complex modeling approaches.
The effects of yeast derivatives and adult cecal droppings on growth parameters and intestinal morphology in commercial broilers.

The development of the intestine and early establishment of commensal bacteria is important for rapid growth and enteric disease resistance of the modern broiler. Three studies measured the impact of yeast derivatives in diets of broilers. The objective of the first study was to determine if yeast products alone or in combination effected performance or gut morphology of broilers during a mild coccidia challenge. Day-old Cobb 500 chicks were placed in floor pens on litter seeded with coccidia and fed diets with or without yeast products. The objectives of the second and third studies were to 1) evaluate the effect of feeding cecal droppings collected from heavy (HW) or low weight (LW) broilers on performance and 2) to determine if dietary supplementation with yeast derivatives would effect growth and gut morphology in broilers fed the cecal droppings from HW or LW populations. Cobb 500 chicks were divided into two groups (HW or LW microflora; n=1400/group) and given access to the cecal droppings for a period of 48 hours then given 1 of 4 diets. The results from the studies showed that in a challenge setting, yeast products were not detrimental to growth. Inclusion of single yeast derivative or nucleotides was more beneficial than combination of these products for intestinal morphology. Cecal droppings from HW vs. LW birds did not have an effect on performance of birds. However, interactions of cecal dropping source and diet did affect intestinal morphology.
Determinación de los valores de referencia en el hemograma de caballos nacidos o criados a más de 3000 m.s.n.m. en la sierra centro norte ecuatoriana.

In the north central Ecuadorian highland, a blood count was performed on 100 horses over two years of age, raised over 3000 m.a.s.l. , the objective of this investigation was to determine hematological values at this altitude and compare them with other studies performed at sea level. The blood samples were taken at rest from the animals and sent to the laboratory to be analyzed in the automatic hematology equipment Mindray R BC2800Vet, for the analysis of the data and to determine the reference values we used the Microsoft Excel add-on R Reference Value Advisor. Samples were taken from Ecuadorian Creole horses to obtain hematological data of this type of horses previously untested. Was found 82 samples suitable for establishing blood count values with normal distribution, red blood cells 6,23−10,84×106/mL; hemoglobin 11,4−18,4 g/L; hematocrit 32,3−52,3%, mean corpuscular volume 40,2−57 fL; Mean corpuscular hemoglobin 14−20,3 pg; Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration 32−37 g/L; white blood cells 4,8−12×103/mL; lymphocytes 1,4−7,5×103/mL; monocytes 0,2−0,7×103/mL; granulocytes 2,2−8,8×103/mL; lymphocytes% 16,8 − 64,9%, monocytes% 2,9 − 7%, granulocytes% 30,5 − 78,7%; platelets 101 − 401 × 103/mL. The results were compared with international bibliographical references and significant differences (P< 0,05) in red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit and monocytes were found in the study of Bohmwald et al., (1984), a significant difference in hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, lymphocytes, monocytes and platelets with the study of Giordano et al., (2008); While with the study of Diaz et al., (2011) significant difference with hemoglobin, monocytes and platelets.
Impact of pasture herbicides on the seedling growth response of three tall fescue varieties

Chemical application is a viable and popular method for weed control, but the effectiveness of various herbicides depends on the target weed. The objectives of this study were to determine the appropriate herbicide for three tall fescue varieties that either do or do not contain endophytic fungi. Plants were split into six herbicide treatments and an untreated control for 7, 14, 21, and 28 days in a randomized complete block design experiment with four replicates. Herbicides evaluated were 2,4-D, aminopyralid, 2,4-D plus dicamba, metsulfuron plus chlorsulfuron, aminocyclopyrachlor, and metsulfuron plus aminopyralid. In all three tall fescue varieties, the application of 2,4-D, aminopyralid, 2,4-D plus dicamba, or aminocyclopyrachlor failed to reduce phytotoxicity, height, tiller number, and dry matter when compared with the untreated control. However, metsulfuron-containing treatments reduced all variables in every variety. We thus conclude that herbicides containing metsulfuron are the most phytotoxic to tall fescue. Key words: Endophytic fungi, grass, weed control.
Visible marking of wader nests to avoid damage by farmers does not increase nest predation

Summary Only a few studies have assessed the predation risk on artificially marked nests, or have examined ways of marking nests to avoid destruction by machinery. Until now, however, neither type of study has directly addressed this apparent trade-off experimentally. The impact of marking the nests of Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus with thin 2 m-long conspicuous bamboo poles with the top end highlighted with reflective red or orange spray has been tested for three years in two breeding areas of waders in the Czech Republic. A total of 52 pairs of nests on agricultural land, with each pair consisting of one marked nest and one unmarked reference counterpart nest, were monitored for 2004 nest-days until hatching, agricultural operations or failure. The results proved that marking itself does not result in increased nest predation. The nests found in the early incubation stage were under higher threat of depredation, irrespective of the presence of marking. Our results show that it is possible to find a finely-tuned trade-off in nest marking of ground-nesting birds between risk of damage by agricultural machinery and risk of increased nest predation. Our positive experience with Northern Lapwing, and episodically with three other wader species in the Czech Republic, suggests that this direct nest protection could be used effectively for a wider variety of ground-nesting birds.
Fermentation of Colored Quinoa Seeds with Neurospora intermedia to Obtain Oncom‐Type Products of Favorable Nutritional and Bioactive Characteristics

In this research, colored quinoa seeds were subjected to a modified oncom-type processing (precooking followed by solid-state fermentation with Neurospora intermedia) to obtain convenient food products of improved parameters. Compared with the raw material, the products contained a higher level of protein (on average by 44%, with an advantageous essential amino acid profile) and fiber (by 71%) but a lower amount of inositol phosphates (by 50%, with an increased share of InsP3 fraction in the profile). Fermented quinoa was enriched in carotenoids (6.5-fold) and riboflavin (fivefold). The antioxidant potential of oncom was also improved in respect to antiradical activity (on average by 39%) and reducing power. Of the red and black quinoa, the former substrate was processed into a product of better quality, containing a higher level of protein (214 g/kg dry matter [DM]), fiber (234 g/kg DM), carotenoids (81 mg/kg DM), and riboflavin (8 mg/kg DM), as well as antiradical activity (IC50 in ABTS⋅+ and DPPH⋅ assa.
Applying the multistate capture–recapture robust design to characterize metapopulation structure

Population structure must be considered when developing mark–recapture (MR) study designs as the sampling of individuals from multiple populations (or subpopulations) may increase heterogeneity in individual capture probability. Conversely, the use of an appropriate MR study design which accommodates heterogeneity associated with capture occasion varying covariates due to animals moving between ‘states’ (i.e. geographic sites) can provide insight into how animals are distributed in a particular environment and the status and connectivity of subpopulations. The multistate closed robust design (MSCRD) was chosen to investigate: (i) the demographic parameters of Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) subpopulations in coastal and estuarine waters of Perth, Western Australia; and (ii) how they are related to each other in a metapopulation. Using 4 years of year‐round photo‐identification surveys across three geographic sites, we accounted for heterogeneity of capture probability based on how individuals distributed themselves across geographic sites and characterized the status of subpopulations based on their abundance, survival and interconnection. MSCRD models highlighted high heterogeneity in capture probabilities and demographic parameters between sites. High capture probabilities, high survival and constant abundances described a subpopulation with high fidelity in an estuary. In contrast, low captures, permanent and temporary emigration and fluctuating abundances suggested transient use and low fidelity in an open coastline site. Estimates of transition probabilities also varied between sites, with estuarine dolphins visiting sheltered coastal embayments more regularly than coastal dolphins visited the estuary, highlighting some dynamics within the metapopulation. Synthesis and applications. To date, bottlenose dolphin studies using mark–recapture approach have focussed on investigating single subpopulations. Here, in a heterogeneous coastal–estuarine environment, we demonstrated that spatially structured bottlenose dolphin subpopulations contained distinct suites of individuals and differed in size, demographics and connectivity. Such insights into the dynamics of a metapopulation can assist in local‐scale species conservation. The MSCRD approach is applicable to species/populations consisting of recognizable individuals and is particularly useful for characterizing wildlife subpopulations that vary in their vulnerability to human activities, climate change or invasive species.
Effect of native arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi inocula on the growth of Cowpea [ Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] in three differents agro ecological zones in Burkina Faso

Objective: The use of symbiotic microorganisms as mycorrhizal fungi to improve the availability of nutrients to plants is of great importance in agriculture. In this study, we were interested in the response of cowpea, variety KVX 396-4–5-2D, to mycorrhizal inoculation in the context of selection of effective Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) to improve cowpea productivity.Methodology and results: Six native AMF inocula (Tale Mossi, Pissila, Worou 1, Worou 2, Yakouta 1 and Yakouta 2), composed of spores contained in cowpea crop soils, were tested in cowpea plants under greenhouse conditions. Microscopic assessment of mycorrhizal colonization and biomass production were evaluated at the flowering/fruiting stage.Results showed variability among inocula regarding their response to cowpea growth. The frequency of mycorrhizal colonization of inoculated plants was generally high (92%), but the intensities remained low (57.65%). However, Yakouta 2 inoculum has recorded the best frequency (92%) and intensity (57.65%) of mycorrhizal colonization. Inoculation of cowpea with Yakouta 2 inoculum resulted in a significant increase (4 folds) in shoot (3.33 g) and root (1.5 g) biomass compared to control plants (0.5 and 0.3 g respectively for shoot and root biomass). Conclusion and application of findings: From these results, it appears that Yakouta 2 seems to be the most efficient for the growth of cowpea. This generally showed a beneficial effect of inoculation of cowpea suggesting that an endomycorrhizal strain selection could be carried on for cowpea inoculation in situ.Keywords: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, inoculation, cowpea, Burkina Faso
Evaluation of plant growth promoting activity and heavy metal tolerance of psychrotrophic bacteria associated with maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) rhizosphere

The high Andean plateau of Peru is known to suffer harsh environmental conditions. Acidic soils containing high amount of heavy metals due to mining activities and withstanding very low temperatures affect agricultural activities by diminishing crop quality and yield. In this context, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) adapted to low temperatures and tolerant to heavy metals can be considered as an environment-friendly biological alternative for andean crop management. The aim of this work was to select and characterize psychrotrophic PGPR isolated from the rhizosphere of maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) a traditional andean food crop. A total of 44 psychrotrophic strains isolated from 3 areas located in the Bombon plateu of Junin-Peru were tested for their PGPR characteristics like indole acetic acid (IAA) production, phosphate solubilization and for their ability to improve seed germination. In addition, their capacity to grow in the presence of heavy metals like cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), cobalt (Co) and mercury (Hg) was tested. Of the total number of strains tested, 12 were positive for IAA production at 22 °C, 8 at 12 °C and 16 at 6 °C. Phosphate solubilization activities were higher at 12 °C and 6 °C than at 22 °C. Red clover plant assays showed that 16 strains were capable to improve seed germination at 22 °C and 4 at 12 °C. Moreover, 11 strains showed tolerance to Cd and Pb at varying concentrations. This study highlight the importance of obtaining PGPRs to be used in high andean plateu crops that are exposed to low temperatures and presence of heavy metals on soil.
Thermoregulatory responses related to coat traits of Brazilian native ewes: an adaptive approach

ABSTRACT Semi-arid conditions can adversely affect livestock productivity and change certain physiological parameters. The relationship between hair coat and thyroxine levels in Morada Nova ewes was evaluated through environmental factors, such as air temperature, relative air humidity, radiant and Black Globe Humidity Index to gain a better understanding of thermoregulation mechanisms in these animals. Measurements were taken from July to January in 383 Morada Nova ewes. The variables studied included rectal temperature (RT), respiratory rate (RR), coat thickness (CT), hair length (HL), hair diameter (HD), hair density (D) and thyroid hormones. The data underwent multivariate statistical analyses and a significant inverse relationship was found between coat traits and Thyroxine (T4). The animals that exhibited greater HL, coat density and CT showed lower T4 concentrations. Coat traits showed a strong interaction with physiological mechanisms and can be considered relevant in maintaining homeostasis. Hair traits play an important role in this process, since T4 reduction was stronger in animals that showed difficulties in eliminating heat, which were the ones that had greater HL, hair density and HD. By contrast, animals with a hair coat more favourable to heat losses had higher levels of thyroid hormones.