Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity and Variability of Maximum Trunk Shrinkage, Midday Stem Water Potential, and Transpiration Rate in Response to Withholding Irrigation from Field-grown Apple Trees

The sensitivity of water stress indicators to changing moisture availability, and their variability, determine the number of measurements that should be taken in order to represent properly plant water status in a certain orchard. In the present study we examined the sensitivity and variability of maximum daily trunk shrinkage, midday stem water potential, and daily transpiration rate in their responses to withholding irrigation from field-grown drip-irrigated 'Golden delicious∑ apple trees in a commercial orchard. Irrigation was withheld from the stressed trees for 17 days starting in mid-July, and the control trees were irrigated daily at 100% of the "Class A" pan evaporation rate. The courses of daily transpiration rate, maximum trunk shrinkage, and midday stem water potential before and 10 days after the drying period were similar in the control and the stressed trees. Highly significant differences between the stressed and the control trees in their midday stem water potentials were apparent from the early stages of the stress period. Daily transpiration rate and maximum daily shrinkage were more variable than midday stem water potential, and differences between treatments became significant only after measurements were expressed relative to the initial values before irrigation was witheld. Differences between treatments (as percentages of the values obtained for the control trees) increased after irrigation stopped where these differences were greatest for maximum daily shrinkage, which reached 90%; moderate for stem water potential (60%); and least for daily transpiration rate, for which the differences remained below 20%. Our data show that the choice of a certain water stress indicator should be based on both the sensitivity to changing moisture availability and the degree of variability. Possible reasons for the different sensitivity to moisture availability and the different variability between the water stress indicators under study are discussed.
Storm and snow damage in a Norway spruce thinning experiment in southern Sweden

To assess uncertainties regarding the effects of thinning on risks of storm and snow damage, three thinning treatments (control, normal and heavy: 0, 30 and 61 per cent basal area removal, respectively) with four replications were applied in a 33-year-old Norway spruce plantation on a fertile site in south-west Sweden. A major storm event occurred three growing seasons after thinning followed by snow damage 2 months later and another storm 2 years later. There was a near-linear relationship between thinning intensity and damage caused by the first storm (adj R-2 = 0.94): 7, 42 and 74 per cent of the standing basal area was damaged in the control, normally and heavily thinned plots, respectively. Corresponding percentages after both the storm and snow damage were also approximately linearly correlated with thinning intensity: 8, 53 and 89 per cent, respectively (adj R-2 = 0.91). Damage caused by the second storm was related to both previous damage levels and standing basal area in the control and normally thinned plots. Stem taper between breast height and 6 m stem height was negatively correlated with risk for storm and snow damage in the normally thinned plots. Of the trees categorized as damaged (up-rooted, broken or heavily leaning), the frequency of stem breakage after the first storm was almost negligible in the normally thinned plots, (, 5 per cent), while 24-50 per cent of the damaged stems were broken (mean, 36 per cent) in the heavily thinned plots. The relative diameter growth of the remaining trees in the control plots, for the first and second growing seasons following the storm and snow damage, were significantly decreased compared with the three preceding years. The results confirm previous findings that increasing thinning intensity increases risks of windfall and highlight the need for new Norway spruce management programmes if climate change results in more frequent storm events.
INVESTIGATING PASSENGERS’ PERCEIVED VALUE OF FULL SERVICE AIRLINES AND LOW-COST CARRIERS

This study investigates the customer perceived value seen by Taiwanese passengers who flew between Taipei and Singapore regarding full service airlines and low-cost carriers. We collected a sample of passenger survey data at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. Five constructs, forming into customer perceived value, namely, nonmonetary cost, perception of monetary cost, reputation, service quality, and service contact are identified based on the results of factor analysis. A regression model is then adopted to measure the relationships between customer perceived value and potential determinants. Passengers from traditional airlines determined their perceived value based mostly on what they gained from the airlines. Nevertheless, passengers formed their perceived value for the low-cost carrier, Jetstar in this study, according to the trade-off between what they gave, especially the nonmonetary cost, and what they received.
SYNTHESIS Predator interactions, mesopredator release and biodiversity conservation

There is growing recognition of the important roles played by predators in regulating ecosystems and sustaining biodiversity. Much attention has focused on the consequences of predator-regulation of herbivore populations, and associated trophic cascades. However apex predators may also control smaller mesopredators through intraguild interactions. Removal of apex predators can result in changes to intraguild interactions and outbreaks of mesopredators (mesopredator release), leading in turn to increased predation on smaller prey. Here we provide a review and synthesis of studies of predator interactions, mesopredator release and their impacts on biodiversity. Mesopredator suppression by apex predators is widespread geographically and taxonomically. Apex predators suppress mesopredators both by killing them, or instilling fear, which motivates changes in behaviour and habitat use that limit mesopredator distribution and abundance. Changes in the abundance of apex predators may have disproportionate (up to fourfold) effects on mesopredator abundance. Outcomes of interactions between predators may however vary with resource availability, habitat complexity and the complexity of predator communities. There is potential for the restoration of apex predators to have benefits for biodiversity conservation through moderation of the impacts of mesopredators on their prey, but this requires a whole-ecosystem view to avoid unforeseen negative effects. Nothing has changed since I began. My eye has permitted no change. I am going to keep things like this. From Hawk Roosting, by Ted Hughes.
Lipospheres for Simultaneous Controlled Release and Improved Pharmacokinetic Profiles of Saxagliptin-Enalapril: Formulation, Optimization, and Comparative In Vitro-In Vivo Evaluation

The current study aims at formulating and optimizing lipospheres (LS) by the Box-Behnken design (BBD) from safe biodegradable carnauba wax (CW) to co-administer saxagliptin (SG) and enalapril (EP) for co-existing chronic hypertensive diabetes in order to overcome inadequacies of conventional modes of drug administration. Optimized liposphere formulation (OLF) was selected by a numerical optimization procedure and a comparative in vivo pharmacokinetic study of OLF and commercial brands was also performed. Discrete, free-flowing, spherical, smooth-surface LS having a size range of 5–10 μm and zeta potential of − 20 to − 30 mV were successfully formulated. Compatibility studies by FTIR and DSC proved the lack of interaction of components while XRD suggested the transformation of crystalline drugs to amorphous form. Outcomes of dependent optimizing variables like percentage yield (30–90%), EP-release (32–92%), and SG-release (28–95%) followed a polynomial quadratic model. Pharmacokinetics studies indicated a significantly lower Cmax of EP (125.22 ± 6.32) and SG (75.63 ± 3.85) and higher mean Tmax values (9.4 h for EP and 10.73 h for SG) from OLF in comparison with reference brands of EP (257.54 ± 8.23 ng/mL) and SG (393.66 ± 2.97 ng/mL). Additionally, a potential rise in half-life and MRT of SG and EP was achieved reaching approximately 2- to 3-fold higher than noted for reference brands. Importantly, the enhanced Tmax and AUC0–24 specified the achievement of enhanced bioavailability of both drugs from LS. Consequently, such an innovative approach could not only control drug release in both in vitro and in vivo analyses but also maintain plasma drug concentration for a longer time without maximizing Cmax leading towards effective management of chronic illnesses.
Vocal Behavior During Territorial Intrusions in the Lusitanian Toadfish: Boatwhistles Also Function as Territorial 'Keep-Out' Signals

Male signals are frequently studied in a single behavioral context, but in some cases they may assist multiple functions, namely for both male– male competition and female mate choice. Boatwhistles are known as the mate attraction calls of toadfishes typically produced during the breeding season. However, recent observations with the Lusitanian toadfish Halobatrachus didactylus (Batrachoididae) indicate that the emission of boatwhistles is not restricted to this period, which suggests a function in other behavioral contexts such as agonistic territorial interactions. We experimentally manipulated the social context of toadfish males to investigate whether boatwhistles are produced during territorial defense, by introducing ‘intruders’ in an experimental tank containing nesting ‘resident’ males. Furthermore, we examined whether parental care (eggs in the nest) affected the behavioral responses of resident males during territorial defense. Resident males defended their shelters producing sounds, mostly boatwhistles, towards intruders. Parental males revealed higher aggression levels, exhibiting additional threatening and attack behaviors. Boatwhistles registered during agonistic events were compared with the mate advertising boatwhistles recorded from small aggregations of nesting males in a natural breeding intertidal area. Agonistic boatwhistles were produced in lower and variable calling rates comparing with the advertising ones that were typically emitted in long series of calls. Agonistic boatwhistles were similar in duration and frequency harmonic structure (with a middle tonal phase) to the advertising calls, but presented less amplitude modulation, and lower dominant and fundamental frequencies. These acoustic differences were probably related to differences in calling rates and broadcast demands associated to the distance to the intended receiver. We provide first evidence that, apart from attracting mates, the toadfish boatwhistles also function as active ‘keep-out’ signals during territorial defense.
A consideration of starch and protein digestive dynamics in chicken-meat production

The hypothesis that glucose and amino acids should be made available in appropriately balanced quantities at the sites of protein synthesis for efficient protein deposition and growth performance is not new in animal nutrition. The objective of this review is to consider starch and protein digestive dynamics in light of recent developments and research outcomes in relation to chicken-meat production. This will concentrate on the concept that catabolism of amino acids in enterocytes provides energy for the gut and slowly digestible starch benefits performance. These are supported by relatively recent developments and studies with reducing agents. Practices such as whole grain feeding, hydrothermally processing diets, addition of exogenous enzymes and synthetic amino acids to broiler diets modify starch and protein digestive dynamics. It may be possible to enhance feed conversion efficiency of broiler chickens by manipulating starch and protein digestive dynamics and likelihood of using these methods is considered in this review.
Comparison of Aminocyclopyrachlor Absorption and Translocation in Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula) and Yellow Toadflax (Linaria vulgaris)

Abstract Aminocyclopyrachlor has provided excellent control of many perennial weed species including leafy spurge, but control of yellow toadflax has been inconsistent. 14C-aminocyclopyrachlor absorption was rapid in both leafy spurge and yellow toadflax and averaged 72% 48 h after treatment (HAT). However, translocation within the plant differed by species. More 14C translocated to the aboveground portion of yellow toadflax (28% of applied) compared to leafy spurge (16.5% of applied). There was rapid translocation of 14C-label to the roots of both species but more reached the belowground portion of leafy spurge than yellow toadflax. Over 12% of applied 14C translocated into leafy spurge roots within 24 HAT but declined to 2% by 192 HAT. In comparison, only 2% of applied 14C was found in yellow toadflax roots 24 HAT, and just 0.15% remained in belowground plant parts by 192 HAT. The inconsistent long-term control of yellow toadflax with aminocyclopyrachlor is likely due to poor translocation to the root system, which would allow for rapid regrowth in this hard to control perennial species. Nomenclature: Aminocyclopyrachlor; leafy spurge, Euphorbia esula L. EPHES, yellow toadflax, Linaria vulgaris P. Mill. LINVU.
A preliminary study to evaluate the impact of supplementary feeds on the fatty acid profile of two size groups of Indian major carps in semi-intensive culture system.

Fish is one of the richest sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids essential for human diet in addition to, providing an excellent source of protein, vitamins and minerals. A number of studies are available on lipid and fatty acid profile of fish especially on n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, due to their vital role in human health related disorders (Gustafsson et al., 1992; Jabeen and Chaudhry, 2011). The importance of n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) have been well recognized due to their anti-arrhythmic, antithrombotic, hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties (Simopoulos, 2002; Simopoulos, 2007). Fish is one of the best sources for n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) that is not synthesized in human body yet essential in diets (De Deckere et al., 1998; Simopoulos, 2003; 2008; Karalazos, 2007). The freshwater fish species serves a valuable source of essential fatty acids that contain higher levels of C18 PUFA with a considerable amount of Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and higher proportion of n-6 PUFA with a much lower ratio of n-3/ n-6 than marine fish (Steffens, 1997). Whereas, most of the fatty acids extracted from the carps in 2+ age group are either oleic linoleic palmitic or oleic-palmitic-linoleic (Hadjinikolova, 2004). The variation in fatty acid profile of fish within and between species can be attributed to difference in their natural and artificial diets (Puustinen et al., 1985; Henderson and Tocher, 1987; Ahlgren et al., 1996). The fish being the dietary source of n-3 fatty acids do not synthesize them de novo but obtain them from the algal or microalgal plankton in their diets. Phytoplankton, considered as a base of food web, control the lipid quality of fish species directly in herbivorous and indirectly in omnivorous-carnivorous species (Ahlgren et al., 1996). In case of artificial feed, lipids and proteins are two major organic components of fish and gain considerable importance in artificial or supplementary diets. Lipids are very effective in artificial diet that initiates fat and carbohydrates retention (Zeitler et al., 1984; Viola et al., 1988; Schwarz et al., 1988). Hence, lipids and their constituent fatty acids along with their other metabolic derivatives, such as the eicosanoids, play an important role in growth, health, and reproduction of an organism (Sargent et al., 2002; Tocher, 2003). The nutritive lipid sources of animal and plant origin used in fish diets stimulate their growth, absorption of protein, and the retention of fats and Pak. J. Agri. Sci., Vol. 52(2), 541-550; 2015 ISSN (Print) 0552-9034, ISSN (Online) 2076-0906 http://www.pakjas. com.pk
Impact on Intercultural Competence When Studying Abroad and the Moderating Role of Personality

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to assess how studying abroad impacts the development of intercultural competence and the moderating role of student’s personality. This research uses a pre-post design with a sample of 264 undergraduate students from four Colombian universities; it includes a group of students who participated in a one semester study-abroad program and a control group who did not travel. The average level of increase in intercultural competence for the students who went abroad was 0.511 standard deviations above the average of those who had not studied abroad. The results from hierarchical linear regression did not yield any evidence that supports the moderating effects of the personality factors on the relation between study abroad and intercultural competence.
Expression of Pd-1, Cd160 and 2b4 on Cd8 T Cells During HIV infection: Markers of Exhaustion?

HIV infection is typically associated with dysfunction of the immune system. Evidence indicates that CD8 Tcells are crucial in the fight against HIV, but with disease progression CD8 T-cells become functionally exhausted rendering them unable to control viral replication and spread. Unlike chronically infected individuals (CP), HIV elite controllers (EC) retain CD8 T-cell polyfunctionality and killing function. These characteristics have been linked to the ability of EC to suppress viral replication to undetectable levels without therapy intervention. It remains unclear whether EC manifest T-cell exhaustion similar to CP, and whether exhaustion level measured in blood is representative of that in lymphatic tissues, a site of persistent viral replication. Current antiretroviral therapies successfully reduce viral replication to undetectable levels in blood, but fail to eliminate the viral reservoir within lymph nodes (LN), highlighting the importance in developing means to reinvigorate immune responses in these tissues. To date, studies focusing on T-cell exhaustion use a lack of IL-2, IFNγ and TNF together with co-expression of inhibitory receptors to define exhausted populations. However, these studies fail to address conflicting data on the role of these receptors as markers of activation and their involvement in cytolytic activity, a known correlate of protection against HIV in elite controllers. To address this, we assembled a cohort of EC, CP and healthy individuals and simultaneously measured expression PD-1, Lag-3, CD160 and 2B4, cytokines IFNγ and TNF, and cytolytic molecule perforin. We also compared CD8 T-cell exhaustion in blood and LN in a cohort of HIV+ individuals on and off ART. We report that EC have a high proportion of potentially exhausted (PD1+CD160+2B4+) HIV-specific CD8 T-cells comparable to that in CP, a population also present in HIV+ LN on and off ART. However, EC also harbor a population of HIV-specific CD160+2B4+ CD8 T-cells associated with perforin not commonly present in CP. This indicates that coexpression of CD160 and 2B4 delineates a population of cytolytic CD8 Tcells important for the control of HIV in blood. However this association is not present in LN CD8 T-cells indicating differential regulation of cytolytic factors within these tissues. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Cell & Molecular Biology First Advisor Michael R. Betts
From Monitoring to Forecasting Land Surface Conditions Using a Land Data Assimilation System: Application over the Contiguous United States

LDAS-Monde is a global land data assimilation system (LDAS) developed by Centre National de Recherches Météorologiques (CNRM) to monitor land surface variables (LSV) at various scales, from regional to global. With LDAS-Monde, it is possible to jointly assimilate satellite-derived observations of surface soil moisture (SSM) and leaf area index (LAI) into the interactions between soil biosphere and atmosphere (ISBA) land surface model (LSM) in order to analyze the soil moisture profile together with vegetation biomass. In this study, we investigate LDAS-Monde’s ability to predict LSV states up to two weeks in the future using atmospheric forecasts. In particular, the impact of the initialization, and the evolution of the forecasted variables in the LSM are addressed. LDAS-Monde is an offline system normally driven by atmospheric reanalysis, but in this study is forced by atmospheric forecasts from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) for the 2017–2018 period over the contiguous United States (CONUS) at a 0.2° × 0.2° spatial resolution. These LSV forecasts are initialized either by the model alone (LDAS-Monde open-loop, without assimilation) or by the analysis (assimilation of SSM and LAI). These two forecasts are then evaluated using satellite-derived observations of SSM and LAI, evapotranspiration (ET) estimates, as well as in situ measurements of soil moisture from the U.S. Climate Reference Network (USCRN). Results indicate that for the three evaluation variables (SSM, LAI, and ET), LDAS-Monde provides reasonably accurate and consistent predictions two weeks in advance. Additionally, the initial conditions after assimilation are shown to make a positive impact with respect to LAI and ET. This impact persists in time for these two vegetation-related variables. Many model variables, such as SSM, root zone soil moisture (RZSM), LAI, ET, and drainage, remain relatively consistent as the forecast lead time increases, while runoff is highly variable.
A global 1‐km consensus land‐cover product for biodiversity and ecosystem modelling

Aim For many applications in biodiversity and ecology, existing remote sensing-derived land-cover products have limitations due to among-product inconsistency and their typically non-continuous nature. Here we aim to help address these shortcomings by generating a 1-km resolution global product that provides scale-integrated and accuracy-weighted consensus land-cover information on an approximately continuous scale. Location Global. Methods Using a generalized classification scheme and an accuracy-based integration approach, we integrated four global land-cover products. We evaluated the performance of this product compared with inputs for estimating subpixel 30-m resolution land cover. We also compared the accuracy of deductive and inductive species distribution models built with the different products for modelling the continental distributions of six avian habitat specialists. Results Our product offers accuracy-weighted consensus information on the prevalence of 12 land-cover classes within every nominal 1-km pixel across the globe (except for Antarctica). Compared with the four base products, it better captures the land-cover information contained in the fine-grain validation data for all classes combined and for most individual classes. It also has the highest sensitivity and overall accuracy for detecting the presence of every fine-grain land-cover class. Both deductive and inductive models built with the consensus dataset have the highest or second highest accuracy for modelling bird species distributions. Main conclusions Our consensus product integrates the four base products and successfully maximizes accuracy and reduces errors of omission. Specifically, the consensus product reduces limitations caused by misclassifications, false absence rates and the categorical format of existing land-cover products. Consequently, it surpasses single base products in the ability to capture subpixel land-cover information and the utility for modelling species distributions. Both the presented methodology and the consensus product have multiple applications in biodiversity research and for understanding and modelling of global terrestrial ecosystems.