Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
ADAMTS-9 is synergistically induced by interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor α in OUMS-27 chondrosarcoma cells and in human chondrocytes

Objective To compare induction of the aggrecanases (ADAMTS-1, ADAMTS-4, ADAMTS-5, ADAMTS-8, ADAMTS-9, and ADAMTS-15) by interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in chondrocyte-like OUMS-27 cells and human chondrocytes, and to determine the mechanism of induction of the most responsive aggrecanase gene. Methods OUMS-27 cells were stimulated for different periods of time and with various concentrations of IL-1 and/or TNF. Human chondrocytes obtained from osteoarthritic joints and human skin fibroblasts were also stimulated with IL-1 and/or TNF. Total RNA was extracted, reverse transcribed, and analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Northern blotting. ADAMTS-9 protein was examined by Western blotting, and the role of the MAPK signaling pathway for ADAMTS9 induction in IL-1-stimulated OUMS-27 cells was investigated. Results IL-1 increased messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, and ADAMTS9 but not ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS8. The fold increase for ADAMTS9 mRNA was greater than that for mRNA of the other aggrecanase genes. The increase of ADAMTS9 mRNA by IL-1 stimulation was greater in chondrocytes than in fibroblasts. The combination of IL-1 and TNF had a synergistic effect, resulting in a considerable elevation in the level of ADAMTS9 mRNA. ADAMTS-9 protein was also induced in IL-1-stimulated OUMS-27 cells. The MAPK inhibitors SB203580 and PD98059 decreased ADAMTS9 up-regulation in OUMS-27 cells. Conclusion ADAMTS9 is an IL-1- and TNF-inducible gene that appears to be more responsive to these proinflammatory cytokines than are other aggrecanase genes. Furthermore, these cytokines had a synergistic effect on ADAMTS9. Together with the known ability of ADAMTS-9 to proteolytically degrade aggrecan and its potential to cleave other cartilage molecules, the data suggest that ADAMTS-9 may have a pathologic role in arthritis.
Monographie der Gattung Odontites (Scrophulariaceae) sowie der verwandten Gattungen Macrosyringion, Odontitella, Bornmuellerantha und Bartsiella

Abstract Bolliger, M. : Monographie der Gattung Odontites (Scrophulariaceae) sowie der verwandten Gattungen Macrosyringion, Odontitella, Bornmuellerantha und Bartsiella [Monograph of the genus Odontites (Scrophulariaceae) and the related genera Macrosyringion, Odontitella, Bornmuellerantha and Bartsiella]. — Willdenowia 26: 37–168. 1996. — ISSN 0511-9618. Segregated from the genus Odontites (Scrophulariaceae, Rhinanthoideae) in its traditional, large sense, the four small genera Macrosyringion (with two species from Spain and S Balkans/Asia minor respectively), Odontitella (with one species from the Iberian Peninsula), Bornmuellerantha (with one species from Asia minor) and Bartsiella (with one species from Morocco) are recognized; of these, Bartsiella is described as genus new to science, based on Odontites rameauanus. Odontites s. str. is a natural but morphologically manifold taxon, which is characterized by its unique microreticulate pollen surface, representing an autapomorphy within the Rhinantheae. The genus is of W Mediterranean origin and comprises, in its revised circumscription, 26 species with 21 subspecies, which are mostly stenochoric endemics restricted to single islands or mountain massifs; only three species are widespread, their areas extending over several floristic regions: O. viscosus (from Morocco northeastwards to the Swiss Valais), O. luteus (Submediterranean-Central European-Pontic) and the Red Bartsia O. vernus (Eurasiatic). A taxonomic revision of the five genera is presented, including a general treatise of morphological and biological features, keys, synonymies, descriptions, distribution maps, notes on infraspecific variation, and illustrations of the species. Odontites citrinus from Tunisia is described as a species, O. viscosus subsp. lusitanicus as a subspecies new to science, and 10 names, i. e. Bartsiella rameauana, Odontites hispidulus, O. vulgaris subsp. mesatlanticus, O. vulgaris subsp. siculus, O. vulgaris subsp. himalayicus, O. linkii subsp. cyprius, O. maroccanus O. discolor subsp. ciliatus, O. squarrosus, and O. squarrosus subsp. foliosus, are formed as combinations new to science.
Ground Beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) of Wheat Agrocenosis in Latvia

Species composition and zoogeographical peculiarities of ground beetles were studied in agrocenosis of a wheat field in the Jēkabpils district, Dignāja parish (eastern Latvia). A total of 8,683 specimens of carabids representing 41 species and 14 genera were recorded. Poecilus cupreus L. (36.08%), P. versicolor Strum. (23.93%) and Harpalus rufipes Deg. (18.27%) were eudominants. The group of dominants consisted of Pterostichus melanarius Ill. (5.81%) and Carabus cancellatus Ill. (5.01%). The prevailing forms were open area species (53.66%), mesophilous species (46.34%) and small zoophages (46.34%). Palaearctic species (36.58%) were the dominant zoogeographical element. The trappability peaked in June. Rare carabid species were recorded: Poecilus punctulatus Schall. (1 specimen) and Pterostichus macer (Marsham, 1802) (1 specimen).
Behavioral ecology of the Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) in Washington

This study examines the breeding ecology and behavior of the Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) on its breeding ground in southeastern Washington. Seasonal movements and distribution of the buteo are also described. The birds were observed from blinds, or filmed by Super-8mm time-lapse cameras, during courtship, nest building, egg laying, incubation, and nestling and post-fledging development. Food habits were examined during the nestling and post-fledging periods. Snakes, especially the abundant Western Yellow-bellied racers, were a prey staple, and insects became an important food source during the post-fledging period. It was apparent that Swainson's Hawks feed on smaller and more diverse prey than sympatric buteos (Red-tailed and Ferruginous Hawks), thus reducing competition with neighboring congenerics. Interactions with buteos and other raptor genera were observed, and nearest neighbor distances measured. Organochlorine pesticides in prey species consumed by Swainson's Hawks are concentrated from prey to predator through the food chain. The hawk pellets (regurgitated castings) would contain those concentrations and could easily be monitored without sacrificing any part of the food chain.
Importance of tolerance and growth rate in the resistance of oilseed rapes and mustards to flea beetles, Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

The resistance of oilseed rapes and mustards to crucifer flea beetles, Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze), is known to vary, and tolerance to feeding damage may be a factor in the resistance shown by two of the species. The tolerance of Brassica juncea L. , Brassica napus L. , Brassica rapa L. and Sinapis alba L. was compared in field and laboratory studies. The growth rates of damaged and undamaged plants were measured at four early growth stages, and the level of antixenosis was determined to ascertain the relative importance of tolerance and antixenosis and the relationship between tolerance and growth rate. Antixenosis was confirmed to be a factor in the resistance of S. alba, but this species also proved to be most tolerant of feeding damage and showed rapid compensatory growth at three early growth stages. Brassica juncea showed no antixenosis, but it was tolerant of damage particularly at germination, the cotyledon stage, and the first true leaf stages, which probably accounts for its resistance to moder.
Environmental influences on fish and shellfish production in the Northwest Atlantic

Evidence is reviewed, linking physical oceanographic processes in the marine environment to changes in fish and shellfish stocks in the Northwest Atlantic. A case history study of the cod (Gadus morhua) stock of the northern Grand Banks and Labrador Shelf indicates a long slow amelioration of the environment between about 1945 and 1965, followed by a deterioration in the period 1965–1992. The most important environmental factors for the cod stocks appear to have been salinity and temperature. The trends can be traced back to climatic factors involving the Icelandic Low and the Azores–Bermuda High. When the atmospheric pressure difference in winter tended to be high, there was a progressive increase in the area of sea ice off Labrador and in the volume of cold water at depth. These factors have been shown to affect temperature and salinity conditions on the Grand Banks in spring and summer and are associated with poor growth and recruitment in the cod stocks. A similar case study of lobster (Homarus americ.
Implications of Genotype‐Environmental Interactions in Applied Plant Breeding1

THERE is rather general agreement amongst plant breeders that interactions between genotype and environment have an important bearing on the breeding of better varieties. However, it is much more difficult to find agreement as to what we ought to know about genotype-environment interactions and what we should do about them. Some breeders emphasize the camouflaging effect of such interactions on the "value" of genotypes. Consequent ly they attempt to estimate the magnitude of variances attributable to interactions and to ultilize such estimates in developing ever more precise methods of selection. Other breeders feel that improvements in efficiency are unlikely so long as only "final" characters such as yield and quality are considered. They believe that real progress will be possible only as we clarify the pathways by which final characters are reached. Still others maintain that what is needed is a direct and pragmatic approach which will tell us what types of genetic systems are most likely to give high and stable performance. The literature on genotype-environmental interactions is very large. It varies from reports of variety trials in the field to consideration of the mechanisms which allow cells containing the same genes to become as different as a pollen
Waterward orientation and homing after experimental displacement in the European Pond Turtle, Emys orbicularis

The homing ability of Emys orbicularis living in a canal was tested on adult specimens whose home range had been previously assessed. Homing success was very high both from land and water (93 and 80%, respectively). Turtles released near the canal tend to initially move directly toward the nearest water, and then orient toward home. In contrast, turtles released further from the canal initially orient toward their home ranges. Homing cannot be entirely explained on the basis of topographic orientation.
Histopathological effects of crude oil on Atlantic cod following chronic exposure

To assess the long-term effect on the tissues of marine fish, Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua L. , were exposed to water-soluble fractions of Venezuelan and Hibernia crude oils at concentrations of 50–300 ppb for 12–13 weeks in a flow-through seawater system. Histopathological changes in oil-exposed fish included increased numbers of mucus-producing epithelial cells, capillary dilation, lamellar hyperplasia, and fusion of adjacent filaments in gills, microvesicular formation in hepatocytes, delayed spermatogenesis with intratubular multinucleated giant cells, and an increase of melanomacrophage centers in the spleen and kidney. Lesions were more prevalent and severe in fish exposed to Hibernia crude than to Venezuelan crude at a similar concentration.
Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in winter: "the season of parr discontent"?

Winter is a dynamic period. Effects of the winter regime on northern streams and rivers is extremely variable and characterized by dramatic alterations in physical habitat to which Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) must acclimate and adapt to survive. In this paper, we synthesize recent advances in the biological and hydrologic/ geomorphic disciplines, with specific reference to Atlantic salmon overwintering in the freshwater portions of those running waters subject to freezing water temperatures. The specific requirements and adaptations for surviving winter at the three distinct life-stages in freshwater (egg, parr, kelt) are identified in relation to the characteristics of three biophysical phases: early winter (temperature decline and freeze-up), midwinter (ice growth and habitat reduction), and the break-up/warming phase. In a case study of Catamaran Brook (New Brunswick), a hydro-ecological analysis was used to explain interannual variability in juvenile abundance, especially for young-of-the-year salmo.
Amostragem e abundância de cigarrinhas e danos de Dalbulus maidis (DeLong & Wolcott) (Homoptera: Cicadellidae) em plântulas de milho

Sampling leafhoppers on maize (Zea mays), on sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), and on weeds, using a sweep net, indicated that the number of strokes over 10 m had no effect on the number of insects collected. Dalbulus maidis (DeLong & Wolcott) was the most common of the leafhoppers collected on maize (93%), on sorghum (40%) and on weeds (34%). The species Peregrinus maidis (Ashmead) was less abundant on all three studied environments. The corn leafhopper D. maidis, was more efficiently collected using a plastic bag by covering individual maize plants than using a sweep net. One, five and 10 adults/ plant confined on 10-15 days old plants during a week caused little feeding damage. A quadratic relationship was observed between corn leafhopper infestation density with canopy and root system dry weights of 10-d old plants. The highest level of infestation used (10 adults/plant) reduced 40% of the canopy and 62% of the root system dry weight.
Effect of root zone temperature on ectomycorrhiza and vesicular–arbuscular mycorrhiza formation in disturbed and undisturbed forest soils of southwest Oregon

The presence of ectomycorrhizal and vesicular–arbuscular (VA) mycorrhizal fungi in soils from five sites in a mixed conifer zone in southwest Oregon, each consisting of a 1- to 1.5-year-old clear-cut adjacent to an undisturbed forest stand, was determined by bioassay with Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco, Pinusponderosa Dougl. ex P. Laws & C. Laws, and Trifoliumsubterraneum L. 'Mt. Barker' as hosts grown at root zone temperatures ranging from 7.5 to 35 °C. Maximum formation of both ectomycorrhizae and VA mycorrhizae occurred at 18.5–24 °C in soils from all sites, and there were no significant qualitative or quantitative differences between disturbed (clear-cut) or undisturbed (forest) soils. Mycorrhiza formation was moderate even at the lowest temperature tested (7.5 °C) but was greatly reduced or prevented at or above 29.5 °C. Treatment of soil at 35 °C for 1 week did not appear to adversely affect viability of ectomycorrhizal fungus propagules, but young mycorrhizae subjected to the same treatment ap.
Digestibilidade parcial e total de rações com a inclusão de ionóforo ou probiótico para bubalinos e bovinos

The effects of the ionophore (sodic monensin) and of the probiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae + selenium + chrome) were evaluated in rations with 50:50% of forage:concentrate ratio on the total (TDC) and partial [ruminal digestibility coefficients (RDC) and intestinal (IDN)] nutrients digestibility coefficients. Three Murrah buffalos (Bubalus bubalis) and three steers Holstein (Bos taurus), with an of 477 ± 47 kg and 518 ± 56 kg of average weight respectively, and with ruminal and duodenal cannulas were used; the animals were designed into two 3 ´ 3 latin squares and in a 3 ´ 2 factorial arrangement. The acid insoluble ash was the internal marker for fecal and duodenal flow. No interaction of diet and animal species for TDC of nutrients was observed, although the ionophore addition in the ration showed a positive effect on TDC for DM, CP, EE and starch and the probiotic addition increased TDC of starch, NDF and ADF. The ionophore and probiotic addition provided higher ruminal fermentation of NDF and ADF and higher IDC of starch. It was observed higher TDC of CP and starch for bovine and higher TDC of NDF for buffaloes. There was interaction of rations ´ species only on RDC and IDC for DM, CP and EE. The ionophore addition was effective to increase the ruminal fermentation of DM, to reduce ruminal degradation of CP and to increase IDC of CP for both species. The probiotic addition also reduces ruminal degradation of CP in buffaloes, but in lower scale than ionophore. For buffaloes, the presence or absence of additives in rations caused higher RDC of DM, the absence of addictives in ration caused higher RDC and lower IDC of CP than in bovine.
Discriminating coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) populations within the Fraser River, British Columbia, using microsatellite DNA markers

Three microsatellite loci were used to examine genetic variation among 16 coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) populations within the Fraser River drainage system, in British Columbia, Canada. Each locus was highly polymorphic with 30 alleles at the Ots101 locus, 15 alleles at the Ots3 locus and 38 alleles at the Ots103 locus. Average observed heterozygosities were 86.1%, 70%, and 56.1%, respectively. With the exception of the Dunn and Lemieux River populations, Chi‐square tests and FST values indicated that all populations had significantly different allele frequencies. Two distinct population groups within the Fraser River drainage were observed. Lower Fraser River populations were strongly differentiated from populations spawning in the upper Fraser River, which includes the Thompson River (a tributary flowing into the upper Fraser) and the portion of the Fraser River beyond the precipitous Fraser River canyon. This regional population structure may have resulted from colonization of the upper and lower Fraser River regions by different founder populations following Pleistocene glaciation, and be maintained by adaptive differences between the two groups of coho salmon. Coho salmon populations in the upper Fraser and Thompson River drainages form an evolutionarily significant unit (ESU) of importance for conservation of biodiversity in coho salmon. Microsatellite DNA loci show promise as technically simple and highly informative genetic markers for coho salmon population management.
Evaluating the effectiveness of isolation distances for field plots of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) using a herbicide‐resistance transgene as a selectable marker

The effectiveness of 200- and 400-m isolation distances were evaluated for small-scale trials of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). These distances have been used for previous transgenic release experiments and are commonly adopted for production of basic and certified breeders seed. A 400-m 2 donor plot contained plants with a dominant transgene conferring resistance to the herbicide glufosinate-ammonium. This character was used as a selectable marker to measure the frequency of hybrid formation in 400-m 2 target plots of non-transgenic rape. Seeds produced by the non-transgenic plants were permitted to fall onto the plots and allowed to germinate. At the first true-leaf stage, the plants were sprayed with glufosinate-ammonium. Surviving plants were resprayed, and a subsample assayed for the presence of the transgene using a colorimetric assay and Southern-blot analysis. The average frequency of hybridization over two replicates was 0.0156% at 200 m and 0.0038% at 400 m. These estimates are within the limits established for the production of basic seed (0.1%). Results indicated that bees were the most likely agent for long-distance pollen dispersal.
Computer building of β‐helical polypeptide models

A general method is presented for computing the atomic coordinates of helices in which a dipeptide is the repeating unit. The method will generate both single‐ and double‐stranded model helices having idealized bond lengths and angles, and any arbitrary, user‐specified, pitch and number of residues per turn. The variation of inter‐ and intrastrand hydrogen bonds with pitch and number of residues per turn can thus be examined. An application of the method is the construction of a β‐helix having pitch of 6.3 Å per turn and 4.85 residues per turn, a model which can pack nicely into the unit cell of crystals of cation‐bound gramicidin A.
Vegetation structure and dynamics of Pinus gerardiana forests in Balouchistan, Pakistan

Abstract. 44 forest stands, including 42 stands with Pinus gerardiana Wall, ex Lamb dominant and two stands with broad-leaved trees, were sampled in the Suleiman Range in Balouchistan. Density oi Pinus gerardiana trees ranged from 24 to 930 trees / ha with a mean of 266 individuals / ha; the average basal area was 25.5 m2 ha-1. Adequate recruitment of Pinus seedlings was observed; higher seedling density is recorded from east-facing slopes, while tree density was higher on west-facing slopes. The average growth rate was estimated as 0.08 cm / yr radial growth. However, trees on high elevations and cooler slopes grow faster. Soil variables showed no correlation with density, basal area or importance values. It is suggested that the present degraded stage of the forests in the study area is of anthropogenic origin.
Influence of Polyamines (Spermine, Spermidine and Putrescine) on The Essential Oil Composition of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)

Abstract Different concentrations (0.25,0.5,1,10 m M) of Spermine, Spermidine and Putrescine were applied to Ocimum basilicum seeds and the essential oil composition of basil cultivars were analyzed by GC and GC/MS. Main compounds of basil plants were obtained as linalool and 1,8-cineole in all polyamines treatment. Although spermine treatments led to an increase of the linalool contents (between 40.4% and 56.8%) at all concentrations, high 1,8-cineole content (between 9.6% and 17.8%) were observed after spermidine treatments.
Contaminant Removal of Domestic Wastewater by Constructed Wetlands: Effects of Plant Species

A comparative study of the efficiency of contaminant removal between five emergent plant species and between vegetated and unvegetated wetlands was conducted in small-scale (2.0 m × 1.0 m × 0.7 m, length × width × depth) constructed wetlands for domestic wastewater treatment in order to evaluate the decontaminated effects of different wetland plants. There was generally a significant difference in the removal of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP), but no significant difference in the removal of organic matter between vegetated and unvegetated wetlands. Wetlands planted with Canna indica Linn. , Pennisetum purpureum Schum. , and Phragmites communis Trin. had generally higher removal rates for TN and TP than wetlands planted with other species. Plant growth and fine root (root diameter 3 mm) biomass were related to removal efficiency. Fine root biomass rather than the mass of the entire root system played an important role in wastewater treatment. Removal efficiency varied with season and plant growth. Wetlands vegetated by P. purpureum significantly outperformed wetlands with other plants in May and June, whereas wetlands vegetated by P. communis and C. indica demonstrated higher removal efficiency from August to December. These findings suggest that abundance of fine roots is an important factor to consider in selecting for highly effective wetland plants. It also suggested that a plant community consisting of multiple plant species with different seasonal growth patterns and root characteristics may be able to enhance wetland performance.