Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Subtropical to temperate late Neogene to Quaternary planktic foraminiferal biostratigraphy across the Kuroshio Current Extension, Shatsky Rise, northwest Pacific Ocean

Planktic foraminiferal biostratigraphic zonation schemes are critical for providing first-order relative age control in deep-sea sediments and provide the basis on which to interpret evolutionary dynamics through time. Over the previous decades, the majority of published biostratigraphic zonation schemes focused on the tropical regions of the world. The mid-latitude or temperate regions, especially of the northwest Pacific, have been understudied in terms of recording plankton occurrences. Lack of detailed biostratigraphic studies have largely left out this region from plankton evolutionary analyses, thus how this part of the world ocean, which is characterized by the Kuroshio Current Extension (KCE), may contribute to global plankton biodiversity is unknown. In this study, we present the first magnetostratigraphically-calibrated late Neogene to Quaternary (15.12–0 Ma) planktic foraminiferal zonation schemes from the northwest Pacific for three Ocean Drilling Program Leg 198 holes (1207A, 1208A, and 1209A) that span the KCE. We utilize previously published warm subtropical, cool subtropical, and temperate zonation schemes from the southwest Pacific, with modifications. We find examples of significant diachroneity among primary marker taxa used to construct biozones at the three northwest Pacific sites, which ranges from 0.075 to 2.29 million years. Comparison of our primary datum markers with those of the tropical planktic foraminiferal zonation scheme also reveal diachroneity on the scale of 0.022 to 4.8 million years. We have identified times of intense dissolution in the northwest Pacific, namely in the middle to late Miocene that likely contribute to the observed diachroneity of datums. This study highlights the need for regionally specific mid-latitude biostratigraphic zonation schemes, as diachronous datums and differing assemblages may be hallmarks of oceanic ecotones created by major boundary current systems. These data also provide a framework to characterize local plankton evolutionary dynamics and paleobiogeographic patterns in future studies.
Compressive Garments in Individuals with Autism and Severe Proprioceptive Dysfunction: A Retrospective Exploratory Case Series

(1) Background: Compression garments (CGs) are an adjuvant treatment for generalized joint hypermobility (GJH), including the Ehlers–Danlos syndrome/hypermobility types. The effects of CGs are likely to be related to better proprioceptive control. We aimed to explore the use of CGs in individuals with autism and severe proprioceptive dysfunction (SPD), including individuals with GJH, to control posture and challenging behaviors. (2) Methods: We retrospectively described 14 patients with autism and SPD, including seven with comorbid GJH, who were hospitalized for major challenging behaviors with remaining behavioral symptomatology after the implementation of multidisciplinary approaches, including medication, treatment of organic comorbidities, and behavioral restructuring. Each patient received a CG to wear for at least 1 h (but most often longer) per day for six weeks. We assessed challenging behaviors in these participants with the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), sensory integration with the Dunn questionnaire, and postural sway and motor performance using a self-designed motricity path at baseline, two weeks, and six weeks. (3) Results: We observed a significant effect on most ABC rating scores at two weeks, which persisted at six weeks (total score, p = 0.004; irritability, p = 0.007; hyperactivity, p = 0.001; lethargy, p = 0.001). Postural control in dorsal and profile positions was significantly improved between before and after wearing the CGs (p = 0.006 and 0.007, respectively). Motor performance was also significantly improved. However, we did not observe a significant change in Dunn sensory scores. During the six-week duration, the treatment was generally well-tolerated. A comorbid GJH diagnosis was not associated with a better outcome. (4) Conclusions: CGs appear to be a promising adjuvant treatment for both behavioral and postural impairments in individuals with autism and SPD.
The Effects of Economic Policies on African Agriculture (World Bank Discussion Papers No. 147). By W. K. Jaeger. Washington DC: The World Bank† (1992), pp. 69, £7.15, US$7.95. ISBN 0-8213-1994-9.

This book assesses the potential value to world agriculture of the 'new' biotechnology, emanating from the discoveries of how to isolate genes and insert them into crop species. It paints a disturbing picture of the role of biotechnology especially with respect to the lot of the rural poor. Throughout the book are numerous well-known examples where the adoption of agricultural products and processes have undermined the social and economic stability of the poor, even if they have enhanced the status of others. Biotechnology, it is predicted, is similarly destined to do more harm than good for the poor. The author fails to address the fact that increasingly it is legislators and consumers who determine if biotechnology products will be marketed and farmers and other consumers who decide if they should be bought. For me, the book is too pessimistic. It gives biotechnology a more powerful status than is realistic in determining the future of world agriculture and puts insufficient emphasis on risk-benefit analysis. The author sees biotechnology too narrowly and too separately from other approaches to plant improvement, in spite of correctly seeing biotechnology as a 'tool' rather than a solution. The perspective that is missing from this book is the one on which 'Rice Biotechnology' (reviewed alongside) is based, namely biotechnology as part of plant improvement programmes with carefully assessed priorities. Readers should not come to any conclusion about plant biotechnology and agriculture from Hobbelink's book alone; it is too general and too biased in its examples, even though some of the lessons from them must not be forgotten.
The Aspergillus fumigatus transcription factor RglT is important for gliotoxin biosynthesis and self-protection, and virulence

Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that secretes an array of immune-modulatory molecules, including secondary metabolites (SMs), which contribute to enhancing fungal fitness and growth within the mammalian host. Gliotoxin (GT) is a SM that interferes with the function and recruitment of innate immune cells, which are essential for eliminating A. fumigatus during invasive infections. We identified a C6 Zn cluster-type transcription factor (TF), subsequently named RglT, important for A. fumigatus oxidative stress resistance, GT biosynthesis and self-protection. RglT regulates the expression of several gli genes of the GT biosynthetic gene cluster, including the oxidoreductase-encoding gene gliT, by directly binding to their respective promoter regions. Subsequently, RglT was shown to be important for virulence in a chemotherapeutic murine model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Homologues of RglT and GliT are present in eurotiomycete and sordariomycete fungi, including the non-GT-producing fungus A. nidulans, where a conservation of function was described. Phylogenetically informed model testing led to an evolutionary scenario in which the GliT-based resistance mechanism is ancestral and RglT-mediated regulation of GliT occurred subsequently. In conclusion, this work describes the function of a previously uncharacterised TF in oxidative stress resistance, GT biosynthesis and self-protection in both GT-producing and non-producing Aspergillus species.
Opportunities and challenges for the clinical translation of structured DNA assemblies as gene therapeutic delivery and vaccine vectors

Abstract Gene therapeutics including siRNAs, anti‐sense oligos, messenger RNAs, and CRISPR ribonucleoprotein complexes offer unmet potential to treat over 7,000 known genetic diseases, as well as cancer, through targeted in vivo modulation of aberrant gene expression and immune cell activation. Compared with viral vectors, nonviral delivery vectors offer controlled immunogenicity and low manufacturing cost, yet suffer from limitations in toxicity, targeting, and transduction efficiency. Structured DNA assemblies fabricated using the principle of scaffolded DNA origami offer a new nonviral delivery vector with intrinsic, yet controllable immunostimulatory properties and virus‐like spatial presentation of ligands and immunogens for cell‐specific targeting, activation, and control over intracellular trafficking, in addition to low manufacturing cost. However, the relative utilities and limitations of these vectors must clearly be demonstrated in preclinical studies for their clinical potential to be realized. Here, we review the major capabilities, opportunities, and challenges we foresee in translating these next‐generation delivery and vaccine vectors to the clinic. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Biology‐Inspired Nanomaterials > Nucleic Acid‐Based Structures Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
ROS-dependent anticandidal activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized by using egg albumen as a biotemplate

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have attracted great attention because of their superior optical properties and wide application in biomedical science. However, little is known about the anticandidal activity of ZnO NPs against Candida albicans (C. albicans). This study was designed to develop the green approach to synthesize ZnO NPs using egg white (denoted as EtZnO NPs) and investigated its possible mechanism of antimicrobial activity against C. albicans 077. It was also notable that anticandidal activity of EtZnO NPs is correlated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in a dose dependent manner. Protection of histidine against ROS clearly suggests the implication of ROS in anticandidal activity of EtZnO NPs. This green approach based on egg white-mediated synthesis of ZnO NPs paves the way for developing cost effective, eco-friendly and promising antimicrobial nanomaterial for applications in medicine.
Pharmacological Studies of Rhus Retinorrhaea

AbstractAn ethanol extract of Rhus retinorrhaea Steud. ex. A. Rich-has been studied for anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic activities in experimental models. The extract produced significant inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw edema, an insignificant cotton pellet granuloma in rats, a significant dose-dependent reduction of yeast-induced hyperpyrexia, and inhibition of acetic acid-induced writhing in mice. Other pharmacological studies revealed central nervous system depressing and negative inotropic and chronotropic activities. The acute toxicity studies showed no mortality and adverse effects up to a 3g/kg dose in mice.
Dynamics of breast tumor incidence, tumor volume and serum metabolic hormones in calorie restricted rats

ABSTRACT Reports of the effects of calorie restriction on tumors after the tumor has developed are uncommon and limited to a few tumor types. We investigated the effects of calorie restriction on tumor growth in breast cancer after tumor growth had progressed. We used the N-nitroso-N-methylurea (NMU) induced breast cancer model in rats. In addition to a healthy control group (C), rats with 10 − 12 mm tumors were divided into three groups: cancer control group (CC), alternate day feeding group (ADF) and calorie restriction group (CR-50%). At the end of the experimental period the volume of tumors was decreased in the CR-50% group compared to the CC group. Serum adiponectin concentrations for the C and ADF groups were higher than for the CC group. All tumors of the CR-50% group were benign. The highest incidence of malignant and invasive tumors occurred in the CC group. A 50% calorie restriction appears to be an effective dietary intervention for advanced tumors.
Effects of treating seed potatoes with trace elements on sprouting and microbial spoilage during storage under tropical conditions

Attempts were made to extend the storage life of seed potatoes by treating them with trace elements as antimicrobial and antisprouting agents. In tests to measure the growth of Fusarium oxysporum and Erwinia carotovora subsp. carotovora, it was found to be decreased more by iron, copper and zinc than by boron, manganese and molybdenum. Dipping seed tubers in aqueous solutions of trace element salts decreased both sprouting and microbial spoilage during storage at ambient conditions. Field testing at the end of storage showed that treating seed potatoes with ferrous sulfate did not decrease the yield of tubers or increase their iron content. It is suggested that elements may be used to extend the storage life of seed potato tubers, in tropical conditions.
SALT TOLERANCE IN SUAEDA MARITIMA (L.)DUM. FINE STRUCTURE AND ION CONCENTRATIONS IN THE APICAL REGION OF ROOTS

Anatomy and ion concentrations have been studied in the roots of the halophyte Suaeda maritima (L.)Dum. growing in saline and non-saline conditions. The roots were fine with only three layers of cortical cells. Salinization of the growth medium resulted in cellular vacuolation commencing closer to the apex than in non-salinized plants and led to an increase in root dimensions through increased cell (vacuole) size but not increased cell numbers: the Casparian strip developed much closer to the apex and was twice as long in salt-grown plants. Ion concentrations were determined in sections (1 mm) of root. The apical 1 mm was predominantly non-vacuolate, with a K+ concentration greater than 100 mol m−3 and a Na: K ratio less than 2, even when growing in 340 mol m−3 NaCl. The adaptive value of the anatomical observations are discussed and the ion concentration data assessed in relation to current concepts of the haiophyte cell.
New corological and biological data of the Red Gum Lerp Psyllid, Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore, 1964 in Italy (Hemiptera, Psyllidae)

Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore, 1964 is a psyllid (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) pest of Eucalyptus, native to Australia and first recorded in Europe: Spain in 2008 and more recently (2010) in Italy. The present paper deals with recent research, carried out in central Italy, with new data on the distribution and biology of this species.
Análise da contaminação parasitária em compostos orgânicos produzidos com biossólidos de esgoto doméstico e resíduos agropecuários

This research aimed at evaluating the cysts, oocysts and eggs contamination before and after thermal treatment of 60oC for 12 hours, in 25 different organic composts produced with biosolids from domestic waste-water treatment and animal and agricultural residues. The results showed high parasitological contamination for all organic composts before the treatment and these contaminations were not reduced after thermic treatment. The larva identification in coprocultures before and after thermic treatment showed Cooperia spp. and Trichostrongylus spp. were the most prevalent nematodes. These results demonstrated that helmintus’ eggs can remain viable even after the composing and thermic treatment. The obtained composition with sewage sludge and agricultural residues through these treatment processes can establish contamination risks for humans and animals.
Plant Identification Based on Leaf Shape and Texture Pattern Using Local Graph Structure (LGS)

A B S T R A C T Plant identification is the process of matching a specimen plant to a known plant group. Most of the people identify plants visually (morphologically). The natural key systems use morphological characteristics that can be compared with known databases to find the plants' genus. Characteristics observed to include general character, structures of stems, roots, leaves and flowers. People who are not intimately familiar with particular species require assistance in their identification. In this context, we proposed an approach called local graph structure to identify and classify the plant species based on their leaf shape and texture pattern. The experimental results have shown a significant level of accuracy of the plant species identification.
Projected Distribution of the Zebra Mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, in North America

An analysis of the European distribution of the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, shows that the species probably will spread over much of North America. Only softwater districts and the extreme northern and southern parts of the continent are unlikely to be colonized. Within this range, D. polymorpha is most likely to be found in large, hardwater lakes and in running waters more than 30 m wide. Populations of D. polymorpha probably will spread over a larger part of the lake bottom in shallow, warm lakes than in deep, cold lakes. I could not make any predictions about the expected population densities of D. polymorpha in either lakes or streams.
Report from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

THE National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) supports a broad array of research and other activities designed to explicate mechanisms of blood pressure regulation, pathogenesis of hypertension, and methods for detection, evaluation, treatment, and prevention of hypertension Major categories of scientific investigation that collectively reflect the biomedical research continuum include basic research, applied research and development, clinical investigations, clinical trials, and demonstration and education research. The NHLBI also supports the translation of research results into clinical practice through the National High Blood Education Program (NHBEP). During the past year the Institute created a new division, entitled the Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications (DECA). This new division has as its responsibility the support of epidemiological studies, clinical applications, clinical trials, and demonstration and education research, not only for hypertension but for all cardiovascular, pulmonary, and hematological diseases. Over the past five years, the level of funding of hypertension research by the NHLBI has steadily increased In fiscal year 1983, the NHLBI funded approximately 73.8 million dollars in hypertension research activities The majority of the research projects supported by these funds were investigator-initiated; some were large, multiproject grants referred to as program projects; and, some were NHLBI-mitiated projects called Specialized Centers of Research (SCORs). The Institute closely monitors the broad range of hypertension research it supports. In spite of the multiple and diverse proposals it receives from individual investigators, certain aspects of hypertension research for one reason or another are underrepresented in the NHLBI portfolio. To foster research in these areas, the Institute utilizes a number of options, including issuance of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to solicit contract-supported research; publication of Requests for Applications (RFAs) to invite grant applications for which there are specially budgeted funds for research in a specific area; release of Program Announcements (PAs) to indicate the Institute's interest in soliciting grant applications for research in a specific area without specially budgeted funds; and finally, researchoriented workshops The Institute exercises these options after consultation with Institute advisory committees. Notification of such invited research programs is published in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts. As a result of the Institute's planning process, the hypertension research activities slated for fiscal year 1985, over and above the Institute's previous commitments and its support of investigator-initiated grants, include the following.
Body temperatures of two species of Aspidoscelis from Zapotitlán Salinas, Puebla, Mexico

We report on body temperatures and thermal relationships of two previously unstudied species of Aspidoscelis (A. parvisocia, A. sackii) from Mexico. The two species had similar mean body temperatures (A. parvisocia: 37.2°C; A. sackii: 38.3°C). Body temperatures in A. parvisocia were affected by both air and substrate temperatures, whereas in A. sackii body temperature was only affected by substrate temperature. Aspidoscelis parvisocia were most often found in sun/shade mosaic microhabitats, whereas A. sacki were most often found in sunny microhabitats. In both species, lizards using different microhabitats had significantly different body temperatures. In both species, body size did not affect body temperature. In general, it appears that these two species are similar in their thermal ecology to other previously studied Aspidoscelis.
Parents' Perceptions of Adolescent Sibling Grief Responses after an Adolescent or Young Adult Child's Sudden, Violent Death

The violent death of an adolescent or young adult child is a highly traumatic event for surviving families. A major family adaptation issue relates to individual differences in coping with violent death. This article reports the findings from four data collection points of parental responses over an 18-month time frame to an open-ended question about the difficulties experienced by surviving adolescent children after their sibling's death. The data show that parents reported that they perceived little change over time in their children's responses; surviving adolescents continued to have multiple grief reactions and behavioral changes up to two years after the sibling's death. There were parental role differences between mothers and fathers across time in the perceptions of sibling grief. Further research is needed to understand the sibling grief process following violent death and to develop nursing interventions to support bereaved families.
HOME-RANGE CHARACTERISTICS AND HABITAT USE BY AMERICAN MARTENS IN EASTERN NEWFOUNDLAND

Abstract We assessed annual home-range area for 23 adult, resident American martens (Martes americana atrata) in a low-density population in eastern Newfoundland, Canada (1996–2003), and evaluated seasonal habitat requirements during a peak in abundance of snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus). Home-range estimates were 29.54 km2 and 15.19 km2 for males and females, respectively, and reflect significantly larger territories than those maintained by martens across most of their geographic range. We suggest that these exceptionally large territories reflect the low diversity and abundance of small mammals available to martens as prey. Seasonal requirements were examined by using an index to home-range area. The relationship between the index and snowshoe hare abundance indicated that movement rates of individuals decreased during winters when snowshoe hares were abundant, but that this relationship was not apparent during summer. Analyses of stand-scale habitat use indicated that mature coniferous forest was the dominant cover type in most home ranges (49.6% of area) and was the only forest type used proportionately more than its availability by resident martens. Other forest types used in proportion to their availability included coniferous scrub and insect-defoliated stands. Open areas and sites recently disturbed by fire were avoided at this scale.