Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Changes in the trophic structure of the northern Benguela before and after the onset of industrial fishing

Exploitation of marine resources has been occurring in the northern Benguela ecosystem for centuries. Understanding the cumulative long-term effects of this exploitation is important toward effective management of the modern system. Retrospective mass-balanced models of the ecosystem have been constructed, using Ecopath with Ecosim, for each of the aboriginal (1600), pre-industrial (1900), industrial (1967) and post-industrial (1990s) eras of exploitation in order to ascertain the nature of changes that may have occurred in ecosystem structure and functioning. Biomass of most exploited groups, specifically sardine, hake and seabirds, declined considerably over time. The dominant small pelagic fish, characteristic of upwelling systems, were replaced by a wider range of species, and biomass of gelatinous zooplankton appears to have increased dramatically in recent decades. Catches declined, and mean trophic level of the catch increased from 3.18 in 1967 to 3.68 in 1990, as did the weighted trophic level of the community (excluding plankton), after the collapse of small pelagic stocks in the 1970s. Environmental anomalies experienced in the 1990s had a greater influence over already depleted stocks than previous events, both directly and indirectly affecting a number of stocks negatively. This compounded any effects of fishing and prevented mitigation of declining stocks by management measures implemented after Namibian independence in 1990. Changes in ecosystem structure prior to the 1990s, as a result of heavy fishing, may have altered the trophic control mechanism operating in the system, allowing environmental effects to exert a greater influence. Although fishing certainly influenced ecosystem structure and functioning in the northern Benguela, environmental events have had a considerable, and possibly even greater, impact.
THE EFFECT OF A MIXED NEMATODE INFECTION ON THE SITE OF PLASMA PROTEIN ABSORPTION IN THE SMALL INTESTINE

Absorption of albumin across the whole small intestine was high (0.87) and occurred mostly distal to the site of intestinal parasitism in both parasitized and control animals. This helps to explain why intestinal parasitism has no effect on protein absorption from the small intestine. Key words: Sheep, nematode, plasma loss, albumin absorption
Inventory Sharing and Demand-Side Underweighting

Problem definition: Transshipment/inventory sharing has been used in practice because of its risk-pooling potential. However, human decision makers play a critical role in making inventory decisions in an inventory sharing system, which may affect its benefits. We investigate whether the opportunity to transship inventory influences decision makers’ inventory decisions and whether, as a result, the intended risk-pooling benefits materialize. Academic/practical relevance: Previous research in transshipment, which is focused on finding optimal stocking and sharing decisions, assumes rational decision making without any systematic bias. As one of the first to study inventory sharing from a behavioral perspective, we demonstrate a persistent stocking-decision bias relevant for inventory sharing systems. Methodology: We develop a behavioral model of a multilocation inventory system with transshipments. Using four behavioral studies, we identify, test, estimate, and mitigate a demand-side underweighting bias: although inventory sharing brings both a supply-side benefit and a demand-side benefit, players underestimate the latter. We show analytically that such bias leads to underordering. We also explore whether reframing the inventory sharing decision reduces this bias. Results: Our results show that subjects persistently reduce their order quantities when transshipments are allowed. This underordering, which persists even when a decision-support system suggests optimal quantities, causes insufficient inventory in the system, in turn reducing the risk-pooling benefits of inventory sharing. Underordering is evidently caused by an underweighting bias; although players correctly estimate the supply-side potential from transshipment, they only estimate 20% of the demand-side potential. Managerial implications: Although inventory sharing can profitably reduce inventory, too much underordering undermines its intended risk-pooling benefits. The demand-side benefits of transshipment need to be emphasized when implementing inventory sharing systems.
IS CULTURAL BACKGROUND MODERATING THE DESTINATION PERSONALITY AND SELF IMAGE CONGRUITY RELATIONSHIP OF BEHAVIORAL INTENTION?

Behavioral Intention is one way of keeping a destination to be sustainable. Destination Personality is one crucial factor that influences Behavioral Intention. The destination personality of a tourist attraction that is following the selfimage congruity of visitors will lead to positive behavioral intention. The subjects of this research are all visitors of Tanoker, Ledokombo. The sample in this study was 137 respondents and the method used was non-probability sampling with a purposive sampling approach technique. This research analysis technique uses the Moderated Structural Equation Modeling (MSEM) approach. The results of this study indicate that destination personality, self-image congruity affect behavioral intention. Also, cultural background moderating variables play a role in strengthening the relationship of destination personality, and self-image congruity towards behavioral intention. However, the cultural background has not been proven significant in moderating the relationship between destination personality and behavioral intention.
The effect of cooperative learning approach and semantic mapping strategy on the acquisition of L2 Persian vocabulary

Abstract Acquiring L2 Persian vocabulary is the main hurdle for foreign students who wish to pursue academic studies in Iranian universities. This study explored the effect of the cooperative learning approach and semantic mapping strategy on the acquisition of L2 Persian vocabulary. The study had a quasi-experimental design and included a control group and three experimental groups. In each group, there were 30 intermediate learners of L2 Persian. The participants took a vocabulary pretest and then read three texts each of which contained 10 potentially unfamiliar words. The control group learned vocabulary through direct oral translation (DT). In the experimental groups, the words were learned through cooperative learning approach (CL), semantic mapping strategy (SM), or cooperative learning approach plus semantic mapping strategy (CLSM). A posttest was used to measure vocabulary learning. Results revealed that, in comparison to the control group, in experimental groups, the learners acquired significantly more vocabulary. In terms of mean score on the posttest, SM group ranked the first. It is recommended that L2 Persian materials developers and instructors consider alternative methods of teaching vocabulary such as semantic mapping strategy and cooperative learning approach.
Magnetic activity based on LAMOST medium-resolution spectra and the Kepler survey

Stellar magnetic activity is an interesting phenomenon in late-type stars. We use the medium-resolution spectroscopic observations of 406 069 late-type stars from LAMOST to explore their properties. We perform a statistical analysis on the magnetic activity of the stars and their associated physical parameters. Our samples are cross-matched with other data bases (LAMOST DR5, VSX, and SDSS DR12) to obtain additional observational properties. The equivalent widths (EWs) of H alpha lines, an indicator of chromospheric activity, are calculated. According to the EWs of the H alpha line, we detect 8816 spectra with apparent H alpha emission for a total of 2115 stars among the 2 108 565 spectra analysed. Furthermore, 1521 of these stars show variability in their H alpha lines. In addition, we detect 2132 flare events associated with 41 542 stars from the catalogue by cross-matching our LAMOST medium-resolution samples and the Kepler and K2 data bases. We also confirm a weak relationship of the flare amplitude with increasing Rossby number. There is a clear decease in the strength of chromospheric activity (L-H alpha/L-bol) with increasing rotation period. Moreover, the ratio of the flare energy and stellar luminosity is found to decrease with the stellar mass.
Needle litterfall in stands of Pinus sylvestris L. in Sweden, in relation to site quality, stand age and latitude

Current annual needle litterfall was analysed in 16 Scots pine stands of different ages, site qualities and latitudes. As a mean, the current needle litterfall was 1605 kg (dw) per ha and year, corresponding to a current annual volume increase of 7.9 m3. It was shown that the needle litterfall 1) increased with increasing site quality, 2) decreased with increasing stand age, and 3) decreased with increasing latitude. An increase in the number of living age classes of needles in the tree crowns with increasing latitude was observed. This should be considered if total needle biomass in the crowns is to be estimated from litterfall. A method is proposed for calculating current annual needle litterfall in Pinus sylvestris stands of any age, site quality or latitude in Sweden.
Ecdysiotropic activity in brains and corpora cardiaca of larvae and adults of Locusta migratoria: in vitro assays

Summary Under in vitro conditions the excised left and right prothoracic glands of a larva of Locusta migratoria produce similar amounts of ecdysone, as monitored by RIA. When brain-corpora cardiaca extracts from last instar larvae of the same species are added to one of the two glands, its ecdysone production is significantly increased over that of the homologous gland. The stimulation is dose dependent. This in vitro system has been used as an assay to probe the presence of ecdysiotropic factors in brain-corpora cardiaca complexes of larvae and adult females of Locusta migratoria. The results show that the apparent titres of ecdysiotropic factors in these extracts fluctuate during larval development and in adult females. These fluctuations are discussed in relation to our present information on the role of brain and corpora cardiaca in the control of ecdysone synthesis in prothoracic glands and follicle cell epithelia in this species.
Estimation of genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance in advanced lines for grain yield and yield components of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] at Humera, Western Tigray, Ethiopia

Abstract Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]’s production and productivity is by far lower than its potential. Knowledge on the extent and pattern of genetic variability is prerequisite important for generating superior varieties of different objectives for sorghum improvement. Therefore, this research was conducted to quantify genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance as percent of mean (GAM). A total of 258 advanced lines including a local cultivar “Deber” were evaluated in 2016/17 at Humera Agricultural Research Center, Northern Ethiopia. Alpha lattice design was used with two replications and three blocks were nested within a replication. Experimental results revealed significant difference for yield and yield attributing traits among genotypes. Higher range of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) (3.13–37.44) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) (5.11–38.08) values were observed. Yield per panicle (YPP) (97%) and harvest index (HI) (31%) were the highest and lowest broad sense heritable (H2)traits, respectively. Higher estimate of GAM observed for YPP (75.93%) followed by head weight (HW) (62.36%). Moreover, plant height (PH) (23.51, 83, and 44.22), YPP (37.44, 97, 75.93), HW (31.88, 89, 62.36), biomass (BM) (29.21, 74, 51.94), and grain yield (GY) (32.99, 78, 60.25) were traits with higher estimate of GCV, H2 (%) and GAM, respectively. This study showed wider genetic variability in the tested genotypes. Therefore, hybridization ad selection on these genotypes for a desired traits with high (H2) coupled with higher GCV and GAM will be effective to develop superior sorghum cultivars.
Reproduction of the Middle Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos medius in the Nerussa-Desna Woodland, SW Russia, with Particular Reference to Habitat Fragmentation, Weather Conditions and Food Supply

The Nerussa-Desna woodland (south-western Russia) is one of the core areas for the Middle Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos medius, a habitat specialist restricted mainly to mature oak forests. Recent studies have shown a lower breeding density of the species in fragmented compared with continuous habitat. To evaluate reproduction as a possible mechanism underlying the fragmentation effects, we studied reproductive performance of the species in both continuous habitat and fragmented habitat in the forested landscapes of the Nerussa-Desna woodland. During 1997–2001, annual variation of reproductive indices in both continuous and fragmented habitat was insignificant. None of the indices was significantly lower in fragmented habitat though nestling losses were significantly higher in fragments. Timing of breeding in 2000 was later in fragmented than continuous habitat, probably due to differential landscape phenology. In fragments, fledging success in a year was inversely related to the mean amount of rain. On the basis of individual pairs, fledgling production also correlated significantly and negatively with the amount of rain during the nestling period in food-poor fragments only. In 1999– 2001, abundance of Lepidoptera larvae, main food for the Middle Spotted Woodpecker during nestling phase, varied significantly in continuous habitat, whereas in fragmented habitat the patterns of variation differed between fragments. No significant correlation was found between larval density and reproductive performance of individual pairs in either habitat. Large oak density, a habitat feature related to potential food abundance, was higher in fragments than in continuous habitat but was not related to the reproductive performance. The lower larval density within some territories in fragments as opposed to continuous habitat is likely to explain higher nestling mortality in fragmented compared to continuous habitat. Generally, we found little evidence for lowered reproductive performance in relation to fragmentation. Therefore, this seems unlikely to be responsible for the fragmentation-sensitive patterns of density.
Differential hydrolysis of alk(en)yl cysteine sulphoxides by alliinase in onion macerates : Flavour implications

Intact cells of Allium spp have no odour, but when cells are disrupted, the enzyme alliinase (EC 4.4.1.4) hydrolyses the S-alk(en)yl sulphoxides (ACSOs) to produce pyruvate, ammonia and the many volatile sulphur compounds associated with flavour and odour. In onions, there are three main sulphoxides: methyl, propyl and 1-propenyl, which gives rise to onion's tear-producing effect. The relative proportions of these are a factor in determining the subsequent flavour. γ-Glutamyl peptides, which are biosynthetic intermediates to ACSOs, are also present in significant amounts, but their contribution to flavour is not known. There is little work on the reaction of alliinase in vivo. The hydrolysis of ACSOs by alliinase was studied in rapidly macerated bulbs at intervals between 5 s and 2 h. ACSO and γ-glutamyl peptide levels were measured by HPLC, and pyruvate levels were measured spectrophotometrically. Although the hydrolysis of propenyl cysteine sulphoxide (PrenCSO) was immediate and almost 100% between 5 and 20 s after bulb maceration, the hydrolysis of propyl cysteine sulphoxide (PCSO) and methyl cysteine sulphoxide (MCSO) was incomplete. After 5 s maceration, about 50% PCSO and MCSO remained and thereafter no further hydrolysis occurred. The levels of ACSOs and the extent to which they were hydrolysed were dependent on the cultivar and sulphur environment in which it was grown. The addition of pyridoxal phosphate cofactor enhanced the extent of MCSO and PCSO hydrolysis. Additional purified alliinase per se had no effect. Substantial hydrolysis of γ-glutamyl peptides also occurred after maceration, and this was unexpected. Levels of pyruvate product were between 15 and 25% of the expected amount from ACSO hydrolysis assuming a stoichiometric relationship. The incomplete hydrolysis of MCSO and PCSO, enhancement of activity by additional pyridoxal phosphate and non-stoichiometric production of pyruvate are evidenced that reaction inhibition of alliinase may be occurring in onion macerates. © 1998 Society of Chemical Industry.
Do COVID-19 Conspiracy Theory Beliefs Form a Monological Belief System?

Along with criticisms of the U.S. government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the disruptions to home, work, and school life resulting from social distancing orders recommended by public health experts, as well as the uncertainty about how long the disruptions will be necessary and when (if ever) we will have a vaccine, have come COVID-19 conspiracy theories (CTs).
Community sports fields and atmospheric climate impacts: Australian and Canadian perspectives

ABSTRACT Purpose: This paper presents a study of atmospheric climate impacts on community-level sports clubs’ (CLSC) in Australia and Canada, their vulnerability and resilience, and organisational responses. Design/Methods: A qualitative methodology was used with a multiple case research design. Data (interviews, documents) was collected from a sample of 23 CLSC organisations managing grass turf sport fields exposed to climatic extremes in temperate regions of both countries. Findings: CLSCs in both nations experienced vulnerability to climate impacts. Direct damage to playing fields resulted from extreme climate events. Indirect impacts include higher injury risks, interrupted and/or cancelled competitions, insurance risks, plus higher operating and capital costs. Adapted management was evident for water resources, playing turf, and organisational policies. Practical Implications: Provides insights into the changing practice of sport management at the community-level. Research Contribution: The results challenge the assumption that climate is a static and benign resource for sport. This study demonstrates impacts of climate extremes on sport in the northern and southern hemispheres, the potential for adapting sport management practices, and developing resilience.
Sowing Dates: A Major Factor on the Incidence of Major Insect Pests and Yield of Mungbean

An experiment was conducted at Pulses Research Center, Ishurdi, Pabna, Bangladesh during kharif-I to find out the insect pests attacking mungbean crop sowing at different dates to determine the optimum date(s) of sowing. It is seen that the incidence and population fluctuation of various insect pests was very much dependent on the prevailed climatic conditions of the cropping season. The early (February 14 to March 06) and late sown (mid April to onward) crops received higher pest infestation than mid sown (March 13 to April 10) crops. The highest yield (1548 kg/ha) was obtained from March 27 sowing crop. The second highest yield (1279 kg/ha) was obtained from March 13 sowing which was statistically identical to March 20, April 03 and April 10 sowings crop. Again, the delayed sowings after mid April to onward provide yield of 717 kg/ha to 178 kg/ha which were very poor. Hence, for ensuring higher yield and less insect pest's infestation, mungbean should be sown within the period of March 13 to April 10 and the best date of sowing should be March 27. Key words: Sowing dates; pest infestation; yield of mungbean. DOI: 10.3329/jard.v7i1. 4432 J Agric Rural Dev 7 (1&2), 127-133, June 2009
Growth Rate of Young Sockeye Salmon, Oncorhynchus nerka, in Relation to Fish Size and Ration Level

The specific growth rate of young sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) was studied for a period of 7 mo to determine the effect of body weight when on restricted and unrestricted rations. It was hypothesized that a restricted ration would result in a fixed growth rate until size became a limiting factor reducing food demand below the prescribed level and thereby reducing growth rate. The results support the hypothesis, with the possible exception that growth rate may increase slightly during the period of fixed ration. On excess ration the specific growth rate fell from 3.6% weight per day (2.4 g mean weight) to 1.0% weight per day (37 g mean weight); intermediate constant growth rates accompanied the periods of fixed ration, inflecting to lower rates subsequently. The general equation log G = a + b log W (where G = specific growth rate, and W = weight in grams) was found to apply to a number of salmonids. The slope value of b = −0.4 ±. 04 appears to characterize the family, with the intercept a taking on d.
Nitrogen and Irrigation Effects on β-Glucan Content of Wheat Grain

g -glucan is a major source of dietary fiber and a water-soluble fiber component of wheat grain. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of different nitrogen and irrigation levels on g -glucan content of wheat grain in the years 1998-2000. Experimental design was a split-split, randomized complete block with three replications. Three irrigation levels (0, 75 and 150 mm) and nitrogen rates (0, 50 and 100 kg/ha) were applied in three winter wheat cultivars. Increased levels of applied nitrogen tended to increase grain g -glucan content in 1999. Non-irrigated (I 0 ) cultivars gave the highest g -glucan contents in all treatments (2000). The mean g -glucan values of Bezostaja 1, Gün 91 and Ikizce 96 were 0.615, 0.391 and 0.361% respectively in 1999. In 2000, the mean g -glucan contents of Bezostaja 1, Gün 91 and Ikizce 96 were 0.704, 0.492 and 0.376% respectively. Correlations between g -glucan content and grain yield, protein content, thousand grain weight and gluten content were significant in both years. The results of this study indicated that cultivars and increasing nitrogen levels are important in determining wheat grain g -glucan content, while irrigation decreased grain g -glucan content.
Fiber Type Composition of the Vastus Lateralis Muscle of Young Men and Women

SUMMARY This study presents data collected over the past 10 years on the muscle fiber type composition of the vastus lateralis muscle of young men and women. Biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis muscle of 55 women (21.2 ± 2.2 yr) and 95 men (21.5 ± 2.4 yr) who had volunteered to participate in various research projects. Six fiber types (I, IC, IIC, IIA, IIAB, and IIB) were classified using mATPase histochemistry, and cross-sectional area was measured for the major fiber types (I, IIA, and IIB). Myosin heavy chain (MHC) content was determined electrophoretically on all of the samples from the men and on 26 samples from the women. With the exception of fiber Type IC, no significant differences were found between men and women for muscle fiber type distribution. The vastus lateralis muscle of both the men and women contained approximately 41% I, 1% IC, 1% IIC, 31% IIA, 6% IIAB, and 20% IIB. However, the cross-sectional area of all three major fiber types was larger for the men compared to the women. In addition, the Type IIA fibers were the largest for the men, whereas the Type I fibers tended to be the largest for the women. Therefore, gender differences were found with regard to the area occupied by each specific fiber type: IIA>I>IIB for the men and I>IIA>IIB for the women. These data establish normative values for the mATPase-based fiber type distribution and sizes in untrained young men and women.