Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Restricted Arm Swing in People With Parkinson's Disease Decreases Step Length and Time on Destabilizing Surfaces

Introduction: Fall rates in people with Parkinson's Disease range between 35 and 68% with the majority of falls occurring while walking. Initial evidence suggests that when walking without arm swing, people with Parkinson's Disease adapt their stepping foot placement as a means to preserve dynamic stability. However, it remains unexamined what arm swing's effect has on dynamic stability when walking on destabilizing surfaces. Methods: Twenty people with Parkinson's Disease (63.78 ± 8.97 years) walked with restricted and unrestricted arm swing on unperturbed, rocky, rolling-hills, and mediolateral translational surfaces. Data were collected on a split-belt treadmill CAREN Extended-System (Motek Medical, Amsterdam, NL). Bilateral averages and coefficient of variations for step time, length, and width; and mediolateral margin of stability were calculated. Results: Results were examined in three separate analyses that included arm conditions during each of the destabilizing surfaces compared to unperturbed walking (arm-rolling hills, arm-rocky, and arm-mediolateral). Compared to unrestricted arm swing, restricted arm swing reduced average step length (arm-rolling hills) and time (arm-rocky), and increased COV step time (arm-rolling hills). The arm-rolling hills analysis revealed that the most affected leg had a shorter step length than the least affected. The destabilizing surface effects revealed that during the arm-rolling hills and arm-rocky analyses, step time decreased, step width increased, and the COV for step time, length and width increased. No main effects occurred for the arm-mediolateral analysis. Conclusion: Results indicate that foot placement in response to restricted arm swing, in people with Parkinson's Disease, depends on the encountered destabilizing surface. The arm-rolling hills analysis revealed that participants appropriately reduced step length as compensation to their restricted arm swing. However, the arm-rocky analysis revealed that individuals prioritized forward progression over dynamic stability as they decreased average step time. Additionally, the increased spatiotemporal variability in response to the rocky and rolling hills conditions indicate partial foot placement adaptation to maintain an already existing level of global dynamic stability as no changes in the Margin of Stability occurred. Adaptation is further corroborated by the decreased step time and increased step width. These responses reflect attempts to pass the destabilizing terrains faster while increasing their base of support.
Facilitating the Implementation Process of High-Performance Work Systems: The Role of Authentic Leadership

Although substantive research has devoted increasing attention to variability in human resource practices at the organization, group, and individual levels, the critical role of line managers’ leadership in predicting this variability in the human resource management delivery and implementation process has been overlooked. Drawing from social information processing theory and human resource (HR) attributions theory, this study proposes that authentic leadership moderates the positive relationship between department-level high-performance work systems and employee-perceived high-performance work systems. Moreover, employee-perceived high-performance work systems can enhance employees’ thriving at work through commitment-focused HR attributions (well-being and performance). Analyzing the matched data from 145 departments and 834 employees, we found that the extent to which department-level high-performance work systems are positively related to employee-perceived high-performance work systems depends on authentic leadership within departments. We also found that employee-perceived high-performance work systems will result in commitment-focused HR attributions (well-being and performance), which in turn motivate employees to thrive at work. This study sheds light on whether and how line managers’ leadership influences the HR management process.
Evaluation of diagnostic DNA microarray chips for viral pathogen

Pathogen identification plays a key role in the diagnosis, treatment and control of infections. Sequence-based techniques for identifying pathogens have appeared rapidly following the large-scale availability of genome nucleotide sequences. A DNA microarray is one such technique with multiplex properties in that they have the capability to screen all the known pathogens and also yet to be identified pathogens. The DNA microarray uses oligonucleotide probes, which are unique to a pathogen with respect to all other pathogens and nonpathogen genomes. Considering the importance of this technique, this article reviews microarray chips used for diagnosis of the viral pathogens and evaluates their performance and future prospects.
Front Crawl Is More Efficient and Has Smaller Active Drag Than Backstroke Swimming: Kinematic and Kinetic Comparison Between the Two Techniques at the Same Swimming Speeds

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in Froude efficiency (ηF) and active drag (DA) between front crawl and backstroke at the same speed. ηF was investigated by the three-dimensional (3D) motion analysis using 10 male swimmers. The swimmers performed 50 m swims at four swimming speeds in each technique, and their whole body motion during one upper-limb cycle was quantified by a 3D direct linear transformation algorithm with manually digitized video footage. Stroke length (SL), stroke frequency (SF), the index of coordination (IdC), ηF, and the underwater body volume (UWVbody) were obtained. DA was assessed by the measuring residual thrust method (MRT method) using a different group of swimmers (six males) due to a sufficient experience and familiarization required for the method. A two-way repeated-measures ANOVA (trials and techniques as the factors) and a paired t-test were used for the outcomes from the 3D motion analysis and the MRT method, respectively. Swimmers had 8.3% longer SL, 5.4% lower SF, 14.3% smaller IdC, and 30.8% higher ηF in front crawl than backstroke in the 3D motion analysis (all p < 0.01), which suggest that front crawl is more efficient than backstroke. Backstroke had 25% larger DA at 1.2 m⋅s–1 than front crawl (p < 0.01) in the MRT trial. A 4% difference in UWVbody (p < 0.001) between the two techniques in the 3D motion analysis also indirectly showed that the pressure drag and friction drag were probably larger in backstroke than in front crawl. In conclusion, front crawl is more efficient and has a smaller DA than backstroke at the same swimming speed.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2): A Perspective Through the Lens of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented challenges to veterinary diagnostic laboratories. These challenges include partial or complete shutdowns, interrupted courier services, disruptions in workflow and diagnostic testing, new physical distancing practices, protocol development or enhancement for handling samples from high-risk or susceptible species, and fulfilling requirements for pre-test permission approval from state and federal veterinary agencies, all of which have been implemented to prevent or minimize exposure and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 locally or regionally. As in people, SARS-CoV-2 infects animals through direct animal-to-animal contact and aerosol transmission between animals. Humans can also infect pets or other animals in their care and, although human-to-human transmission is the main route of viral spread in people, infected animals and specimens of their bodily fluids or tissues are a potential source of infection for veterinarians and technical or laboratory personnel that are handling them. In this perspective, we discuss how SARS-CoV-2 has necessitated rapid changes in laboratory operation to minimize zoonotic risk to personnel and to implement tests for identifying the virus in animals. The pandemic has highlighted the adaptability and quick response of veterinary diagnosticians to an emerging infectious disease and their critical role in maintaining animal health, while synergizing with and protecting human public health.
The Role of Temperature in Shaping Mosquito-Borne Viruses Transmission

Mosquito-borne diseases having the greatest impact on human health are typically prevalent in the tropical belt of the world. However, these diseases are conquering temperate regions, raising the question of the role of temperature on their dynamics and expansion. Temperature is one of the most significant abiotic factors affecting, in many ways, insect vectors and the pathogens they transmit. Here, we debate the veracity of this claim by synthesizing current knowledge on the effects of temperature on arboviruses and their vectors, as well as the outcome of their interactions.
A Syndemic Perspective on the Management of Non-communicable Diseases Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

The global coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has greatly affected the lives of people living with non-communicable diseases (PLWNCDs). The health of PLWNCDs worsens when synergistic epidemics or “syndemics” occur due to the interaction between socioecological and biological factors, resulting in adverse outcomes. These interactions can affect the physical, emotional, and social well-being of PLWNCDs. In this paper, we discuss the effects of the COVID-19 syndemic on PLWNCDs, particularly how it has exposed them to NCD risk factors and disrupted essential public health services. We conclude by reflecting on strategies and policies that deal with the COVID-19 syndemic among PLWNCDs in low- and middle-income countries.
The first Antechinus reference genome provides a resource for investigating the genetic basis of semelparity and age-related neuropathologies

Antechinus are a genus of mouse-like marsupials that exhibit a rare reproductive strategy known as semelparity and also naturally develop age-related neuropathologies similar to those in humans. We provide the first annotated antechinus reference genome for the brown antechinus (Antechinus stuartii). The reference genome is 3.3Gb in size with a scaffold N50 of 73Mb and 93.3% complete mammalian BUSCOs. Using bioinformatic methods we assign scaffolds to chromosomes and identify 0.78Mb of Y-chromosome scaffolds. Comparative genomics revealed interesting expansions in the NMRK2 gene and the protocadherin gamma family, which have previously been associated with aging and age-related dementias respectively. Transcriptome data displayed expression of common Alzheimer’s related genes in the antechinus brain and highlight the potential of utilising the antechinus as a future disease model. The valuable genomic resources provided herein will enable future research to explore the genetic basis of semelparity and age-related processes in the antechinus.
Comments on the investigation reports by Fukushima Medical University and the University of Tokyo on allegations regarding papers on radiation dose estimates in Date City

There are serious concerns with the investigations carried out by Fukushima Medical University and the University of Tokyo on allegations regarding two papers by Makoto Miyazaki and Ryugo Hayano (i.e. Miyazaki-Hayano Papers 1 and 2) [1, 2]. These investigations fail to address several important issues raised in the allegations. In particular, some discrepancies among the main Figures in Paper 2 [2] remain unexplained, and the claimed absence of underestimation of lifetime doses is illogical.
Effects of different light quality and biofertilizers on structural and physiological traits of spinach plants

In this work, the effects of light quality and beneficial microbes (biofertilizer) supply on structural and ecophysiological traits of spinach were investigated. Plants were grown under four light quality regimens: white light (WL), red-blue (RB), red-green (RG), and red (R) light, with or without the addition of biofertilizer. RG and R plants without biofertilizer showed morphological traits typical of shaded plants as wide leaf lamina and high photosynthetic pigment content. These plants also exhibited a higher photosynthetic capacity compared to WL and RB plants. The improved photosynthesis in RG plants was due to both morphological and physiological adjustments allowing a better utilisation of light energy, whereas in R plants it has been attributed to a reduced photorespiration rate. Biofertilizer application under WL improved plant performance enhancing photosynthesis. The high carbon gain compensates the costs of symbiosis. Biofertilizer application under R light favouring too much the microbial root colonisation, removed the benefits of symbiosis. The interaction of light quality and biofertilization significantly affects the root-microbe relationship.
Efficacy of Azotobacter and PSB on vegetative growth, flowering, yield and quality of strawberry cv. Chandler

An experiment was carried out at the Department of Horticulture, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U.P.), India, during the years 2008–09 and 2009–10 to study the efficacy of Azotobacter, PSB alone and in combination on vegetative growth, flowering, yield and quality of strawberry cv. Chandler. One year old runner of strawberry cv. Chandler were planted at the spacing of 30 x 30 cm on 8–10 cm raised beds of 60 x 60 cm accommodating four plants per bed. There were nine treatments comprising two levels each of Azotobacter and PSB (5 and 6 kg/ha) and their combinations along with one control, replicated thrice in randomized block design. Five kg of FYM was applied as a basal dose in all the treatments. The data of both the years of experiment were analysed which clearly show that combined application of Azotobacter and PSB (each at 6 kg/ha) significantly increased the plant height (19.66 and 18.92 cm, respectively), number of leaves (65.75 and 62.88, respectively), no. of crowns (7.21 and 7.13, respectively), runners (5.22 and 5.30, respectively), number of flowers (69.05 and 65.50, respectively) and fruits set (38.80 and 36.97, respectively) per plant during both the years of experimentation. Maximum duration of harvesting (70.91 and 70.90 days, respectively), minimum number of days taken to produce first flower (57.69 and 56.53 days, respectively) and fruit set (6.36 and 5.88 days, respectively) with significantly more yield (346.56 and 297.78 g/plant, respectively) were also observed in combined Azotobacter and PSB (each at 6 kg/ha) fertilized plants. As far the quality characters of berries are concerned, combined Azotobacter and PSB (each at 6 kg/ha) fertilized plants produced berries with maximum length, width, weight, volume, TSS, total sugars, ascorbic acid with minimum titratable acidity contents in comparison to other treatments under plains of Uttar Pradesh.
Valuation discrepancies in money market funds during market disruptions: evidence from Egypt

Money market funds (MMFs) are generally considered safe investment vehicles, but the 2008 global financial crisis showed their vulnerability during market disruptions resulting in increased regulatory oversight across developed markets to protect investors. This paper examines the effect of MMF accounting regulation on investors in an emerging market context. It hypothesizes that the continued use of amortized cost methods to account for MMFs’ Net Asset Value (NAV) during market disruptions can result in unfair treatment of investors. The Egyptian money market provided a unique laboratory to test this hypothesis over a prominent economic crisis that combined high levels of interest rate volatility with a redemption-only structure for MMFs. A model that measures the discrepancies between the amortized and floating market NAVs per certificate for various money market portfolios (MMPs) simulating MMFs of different durations is tested using the Egyptian data. A sharp rise in interest rates is found to lead to significant discrepancies between the amortized NAV per certificate relative to their floating value. Serial investor redemptions of the certificates compound the discrepancies, but only certificate holders remaining in the funds bear the accumulated losses, which are augmented for portfolios with higher durations. The results suggest that emerging market regulators consider introducing the rules that switch to floating NAV calculations for MMFs during such periods to promote equality across all investors.
Effect of Nitrogen, Row Spacing, and Plant Density on Yield, Yield Components, and Plant Physiology in Soybean–Wheat Intercropping

The introduction of cultivars with earlier development and greater productivity has raised questions about the effect of management practices on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr] yield in a no-till (NT) system. The objective of the study was to evaluate the interaction between N fertilization, row spacing, and plant density on photosynthetic index, yield components, yield, and nutritional status of soybean–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) intercropping. For soybean cultivation, three N rates, three row spacing, and three planting densities were assessed during two growing seasons, while for wheat, 17.5-cm row spacing and no N fertilization were used. No significant effects of row spacing and plant density were detected. The yields for 0 and 40 kg N ha–¹ rates were similar, while applying 20 kg N ha–¹ reduced, on average, soybean yield by 14.5%. The planting densities, row spacing, and N rates did not affect wheat yield, or oil and protein content in soybean seeds. Soil temperature (ST), intercellular carbon dioxide concentration (Ci), and intrinsic water use efficiency (IWUE) increased, while plant height, chlorophyll content (CC), and transpiration rate (Trmmol) decreased with increasing spacing of soybean. Plant density changed ST, Ci, chlorophyll content, and stomatal conductance (gs). Leaf tissue analysis indicated adequate nutrient levels in soybean and wheat. The current management practice with 50-cm row spacing, no N fertilization to complement biological nitrogen fixation (BNF), and 333,000 plants ha–¹ is adequate for soybean cultivation, while N supplied from soil organic matter (SOM) and BNF is sufficient to meet requirements of associated wheat crops.
Studies on papaya cultivation and evaluation of different varieties and hybrids in Tripura

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is regarded as the wonder fruit of the tropics and sub tropics. It has got great importance due to its high nutritive value and production potentiality. Systematic and accurate estimate of area and production are not available in the state. But still papaya is the most important fruit crop in the state and is cultivated in about 1334.00 ha with an annual production of 18,455.00 mt with a productivity of 13.83t ha which is far below the national productivity of 31.69 t ha. Eight varieties and hybrids were evaluated namely Coorg Honey Dew, Pusa Dwarf, Pusa Majesty, Pusa Nanha, Washington, Surya, RCTP-1 and local dwarf types. The Coorg Honey Dew, Pusa Majesty and local type are performing excellent with respect to yield and quality parameters. The highest plant height was observed in case of high yielding selection RCTP-1(293.55cm) and it was least in case of new local dwarf gynodioecious type (91.33 cm). The highest pulp thickness was found in new local dwarf gynodioecious type (3.37 cm) and lowest pulp thickness was recorded in case of variety Pusa Nanha (2.10 cm). The cavity index of fruits was found to vary from 22.80 per cent in local dwarf gynodioecious type to 28.27 per cent in Coorg Honey Dew. The varieties Washington, Pusa Dwarf and Surya,showed medium cavity index whereas the local dwarf gynodioecious type showed less cavity index. The highest TSS was observed in case of hybrid Surya and the lowest TSS was observed in case of variety Pusa Nanha. Most of the orchards are having the problem of water stress from December to March leads to severe moister stress and heavy rain from April to October causes heavy soil erosion, nutrition loss from top soil. The soil across the state is acidic in nature, which hampered the availability of the important nutrients to the plants and affect the yield.
Effect of Two-Step Fermentation by Rhizopus oligosporus and Bacillus subtilis on Protein of Fermented Soybean

The objective of this study was to investigate effect of the steamed soybeans inoculated with Rhizopus oligosporus in advance then Bacillus subtilis on the protein of fermentd soybeans. Soluble nitrogen content and degree of hydrolysis of soy protein increased with increasing fermenting time both of the two-step fermentation and single starter culture of B. subtilis. The amino acid composition of the two-step fermented product fluctuant during fermentation, of which glutamic and aspartic acids had the highest content. However, The most bands of soy protein components with molecular weight above 20 kDa on electrophoretogram of the product by the two-step fermentation became faint. It meant the concentration of these proteins decreased after 24 h of fermentation.
Lizards as seed dispersers

Acknowledgments. -We are much indebted to Carol Horvitz for serving as courier, to the National Science Foundation for support (BSR8216808 to HMS and RBS), and to Michael Grant, Chairman, Department of E.P.O. Biology, University of Colorado, for provision of facilities. The drawings (Figs. 1 and 2) are by Jan Logan and are modelled after those in Wilson and Meyer's (1971) revision of the taeniata group of Tantilla.
Seasonal and landscape differencesin the foraging behaviour of the Rufous Treecreeper Climacteris rufa

The insectivorous Rufous Treecreeper Climacteris rufa has declined in abundance in the agricultural regions of southwestern Australia. Examining its foraging behaviour is fundamental to identifying important foraging resources and how landscape change (e.g., fragmentation and disturbance) may affect foraging effectiveness. We studied seasonal and landscape differences in the foraging behaviour of the treecreeper in the wheatbelt of Western Australia. Foraging data were collected in autumn and winter in a large, unfragmented landscape and in a highly modified agricultural landscape (winter only) with grazed and ungrazed woodland patches. The ground layer was the most common foraging location used by the species, although there were seasonal differences in foraging behaviour in the unfragmented landscape. In autumn, treecreepers foraged primarily on trees (56% of observations) with a shift to mostly ground foraging in winter (72-74%). The species also preferentially foraged on larger trees. Foraging behaviour differed between the two landscapes within the same season. Treecreepers foraged less on the ground in the agricultural landscape (52%), but this difference is attributed mainly to the low percentage of ground foraging in ungrazed (43%) compared to grazed (60%) patches. In winter and early spring, the ground layer is an important foraging substrate for the Rufous Treecreeper and other woodland birds. Changes to the ground layer and associated invertebrate communities through habitat disturbance (e.g., weed invasion) may be detrimental to the foraging effectiveness of ground-foraging insectivores. This is a potential contributing factor to the decline of these species in the agricultural regions of southern Australia.