Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Density dependence : are we searching at the wrong spatial scale ?

Regulation of populations by density-dependent mechanisms is one of the basic tenets of theory in population biology. Yet, it has been argued that population studies rarely reveal density dependence. We show that the detection of density-dependent processes is a function of study spatial scale, so that appropriately scaled studies commonly reveal density dependence, while inappropriately scaled studies do not. The detection of density dependence and the potential for spatial structure in population density were examined in 79 insect population studies. The potential for spatial structure within the study area was estimated from population movement relative to the area over which density was measured. Relative movement was classified as 'high' (and potential for spatial population structure 'low') if more than 10% of the population moved across the boundary of this area each generation. Analyses were stage-based, addressing the prevalence of density-dependent processes, rather than population regulation. In mobile stages (small and large instars and adults), density dependence was found in 69-73% of studies with low potential spatial structure ('high' relative population movement), and in 23-35% of studies with high potential structure ('low' movement). In immobile stages (eggs and pupae), density dependence was rarely detected in studies larger than 0.1 hectare (7-16%), but often detected in smaller-scale studies (65-69%). One-third of studies reporting both density relationships and 'key factors' (sources of mortality that are most correlated with population fluctuation) found the key factor to be directly density-dependent. Density-dependent growth was detected in at least one stage in 74-76% of studies that tested for density relationships. Study length (in generations) was not related to the frequency of detection of density dependence in studies with low potential spatial structure in population density. This result calls into question the need for long-term studies to detect density relationships. The detection of population regulation may be hampered by scale effects similar to those demonstrated here.
Fertility and Hatchability of Indigenous Siruvidai Chicken of Tamil Nadu

The smallholder chicken sector is traditionally based on extensive production systems where the birds find most of their feed through scavenging. The twentieth livestock census results (DAHD, 2019) indicates that the total Poultry in the country is 851.81 Million in 2019, with the increase of 16.8% over previous census (729.2 Million in 2012); whereas, the total backyard poultry in the country was 317.07 Million in 2019, increasing 45.8% over previous census. Indigenous chicken contributes to more than 20% of total egg production in India. These birds are also known for their adaptive superiority in terms of their resistance to endemic diseases and other harsh environmental conditions (Nwakpu et al., 1999). Therefore more attention should be given to study and characterize the lesser known and largely neglected ecotypes/ breeds like Siruvidai chicken so as to plan for conservation and posterity. This non-descript International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences ISSN: 2319-7706 Volume 9 Number 8 (2020) Journal homepage: http://www.ijcmas. com
Detection and management of advanced gastric cancer

Although its incidence has decreased significantly in Western countries during the past decade, gastric cancer is still one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The highest incidence is found in Japan where it is the principal type of fatal cancer. In contrast to Japan, the proportion of patients presenting with ‘early gastric cancer’ (limited to the mucosa and submucosa of the stomach) in Western countries is generally less than 10% to 15%. On the other hand, the number of patients with tumors of the gastric cardia has increased in the past two decades. Both trends are particularly unfortunate because they are associated with a dismal prognosis [1].
S3 Appendix. Synthesis and biophysical properties of T-State and R-State PolyhHb

Human hemoglobin (hHb) used in this process was purified from human red blood cells (RBCs) using protocols developed by Palmer et al. [1]. Deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) (deoxyHb) and oxygenated Hb (oxyHb) were polymerized with glutaraldehyde using methods developed previously [2–4]. To prepare 35:1 (molar ratio of glutaraldehyde to hHb) tense quaternary state (T-State) (deoxygenated) polymerized hHb (PolyhHb), the hHb solution is devoid of dissolved oxygen (O2) before and during the polymerization reaction. The presence of minute quantities of dissolved O2 will lead to formation of PolyhHb that is not exclusively in the T-State. To synthesize 30:1 relaxed quaternary state (R-State) (oxygenated) PolyhHb, the hHb solution is fully saturated with O2 during the polymerization reaction to yield PolyhHb molecules exclusively in the R-State. The hHb content in the reactor was maintained at 20 mg/mL in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) ( 0.1 M, 7.4 pH). The hHb was passed over Liquicell G453 gas membrane contactor (3M, Saint Paul, MN) via a peristaltic pump. This equipment facilitates rapid hHb gas exchange without causing bubble formation, which may lead to hHb denaturation. Pure O2 gas was used to fully saturate the hHb solution to prepare R-State PolyhHb Pure nitrogen (N2) gas was used to partially desaturate the hHb solution. Complete O2 removal was obtained by addition of 333 mg of sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4) in deoxygenated PBS 60 mL of a 0.13 to 0.18 M glutaraldehyde solution diluted in deoxygenated/oxygenated PBS (0.1 M, pH 7.4) was injected at a constant rate for 2 hours to polymerize hHb. After glutaraldehyde addition was completed, the solution was allowed to react for an additional hour before quenching with sodium cyanoborohydride (NaCNBH3). After NaCNBH3 was added to the reaction vessel, the solution was placed in an ice bath in a refrigerator with gentle stirring overnight. PolyhHb was prepared using a 32-cycle two-stage continuous diafiltration process. First, 250 mL of reacted PolyhHb solution was added to the stage 1 filtration system. The solution was then filtered on a 0.2 μm polyester sulfone (PES) filter with the permeate transferred to the stage 2 filtration system. Once 250 mL of stage 1 permeate was transferred to stage 2, purification was initiated on a 100 kDa modified polyester sulfone (mPES) tangential flow filtration (TFF) module (Spectrum Labs, Rancho Dominguez, CA). PolyhHb solutions were then excipient exchanged into an isotonic modified Ringer’s lactate buffer (sodium chloride (NaCl) 115 mM, potassium chloride (KCl) 4 mM, calcium chloride (CaCl2•2H2O) 1.4 mM, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) 13 mM, sodium lactate 27 mM, and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NALC) 12.3 mM). After 16× volume exchanges, stage 1 permeate contained insignificant concentrations of PolyhHb. At this point, stage 1 permeate was replaced with the excipient solution. After 32× volume exchanges, the permeate was measured via UV-visible spectroscopy to estimate complete removal of small hHb species. Excipient exchanged solutions were then concentrated to at least 100 mg/mL.
SkyTEM Case Study: The Valen Survey Comparison with VTEM

SkyTEM, long established as the world leading technology for hydrogeophysical investigations, is applied globally for resource exploration. Based on the extensive experience obtained over the past decade, SkyTEM has developed the SkyTEM system with a particular focus on providing the best possible signal-to-noise ratio for anomaly definition in mineral exploration. This calibrated system records accurate and repeatable data with well monitored system parameters.
Incidence of Corneal Ulcer in Dogs – A Retrospective Study

The eye is a window to the world. It’s the only organ of vision at the best and a biological camera (Dutta, 2006). Due to lack of awareness among the pet owners and clinicians, the ocular problems in pet animals are getting worsen day by day (Slatter, 2001). The incidence of ocular affection was found to be high in canine in which, condition of cornea and lens are the most important, since diseases of this structure directly affect the vision (Gelatt and Katz, 2000). Corneal ulcer is one of the most common eye diseases in dogs and most common reasons of an eye to be painful along with being the most common cause of blindness in dogs, but in most of the cases it is treatable. Hence the objective of the present study was to record incidence of corneal ulcer based on the Age, Sex, Breed, Symmetry, Affected eyes, Causative factor and Location of ulcer.
Bayesian system identification in linear structural dynamics with frequency transformed data using rational surrogate models

The identification of parameters of structural models through measurements of the system’s response is of interest in many contexts. In Bayesian system identification the underlying inverse problem is formulated in a probabilistic setting, and Bayes’ rule is applied to update a prior conjecture on the parameters. We apply the Bayesian framework to identify the parameters of structural systems using dynamic measurement data. The likelihood function is formulated in terms of the misfit of the frequency transformed data and the model frequency response function. We introduce a novel formulation that accounts for the correlation of the model error in both spatial and frequency domain. Due to the high computational demands of sampling-based approaches for solving the Bayesian updating problem with expensive structural dynamics models, we resort to surrogate models . We apply a recently introduced rational surrogate model that approximates the complex frequency response as a rational of two polynomials with complex coefficients. Samples of the posterior distribution of the model parameters are then obtained through an adaptive sequential sampling approach using the surrogate instead of the original dynamic model. The proposed method is successfully applied to identify the orthotropic stiffness and damping parameters of a finite element model of a cross laminated timber plate.
Quantification of the relationship between root parameters and soil macropore parameters under different land use systems in Retisol

*Corresponding author e-mail: mykola.kochiieru@lammc.lt A b s t r a c t. The study aimed to quantify the relationship between root parameters and soil macropore characteristics in two soil layers of Retisol from a hilly landscape in Western Lithuania, as influenced by different land use systems. The decreases in root volume and root length density were dependent on land use and soil depth. The values of root length density and root volume at 0-20 cm depth tended to decrease in the following order: grassland > forest > arable land under conventional tillage. The highest volume in the framework of macropores was recorded for medium-size pores under arable land (3.02%), for fine pores (2.56%) in forest soil and very fine pores in grassland soil (below 1.19%) at the 0-10 cm soil depth, while at 10-20 cm soil depth, the coarse macropores dominated in the arable land system (below 1.41%). Root length density, root volume and the volume of very fine macropores had close relationships (p < 0.01, r = 0.91 and r = 0.68, respectively) under different land use at 0-20 cm depth. In Retisol, the roots were concentrated at 0-10 cm soil depth, and their volume was higher compared to the 10-20 cm depth. Plant roots increased the volume of very fine macropores in all land use systems, within the entire 0-20 cm soil depth. K e y w o r d s: plough layer, porosity, root length, root volume, tillage, X-ray computed tomography
Business Credit Programs in the Pandemic Era

ABSTRACT:We develop a pair of models that speak to the goals and design of the sort of business lending and corporate bond purchase programs that have been introduced by governments in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. An overarching theme is that, in contrast to the classic lender-of-last-resort thinking that underpinned much of the response to the 2007–2009 global financial crisis, an effective policy response to the pandemic will require the government to accept the prospect of significant losses on credit extended to private sector firms.
Adult Hematopoietic Stem Cells: Niche Cross-Talks to Affect the Cell Fate

Hematopoietic stem cells have dissimilar proliferative capacities; although some remain in quiescence, some consistently undergo multiple rounds of cell division stimulating hematopoiesis to maintain homeostasis and protect stem cell exhaustion. The stringent equilibrium between quiescence, self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation is maintained by the operational selectiveness of intrinsic factors and extrinsic cues provided by the specialized microenvironment called the “niche” that provides homeness to hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). The niche is defined by a heterogeneous identity involving the complex interaction of various other cells, cytokines, adhesion molecules, and extracellular matrix via several surface receptors and soluble factors, which work in paracrine coordination and protect stem cells from depletion while eliciting proliferation. The widespread investigations have shed light on the mechanistic underpinnings in niche, which coordinate the balance between relative hematopoietic quiescence and proliferation. In this paper, we discuss the recent findings concerning how these complex niche interactions facilitate the regulation of hematopoietic stem cells during homeostasis and further extend the discussion to their involvement in expansion and tumorigenesis, the two biological phenomena that are intimately associated with stem cells.
Linking behavioral thermoregulation, boldness, and individual state in male Carpetan rock lizards

Abstract Mechanisms affecting consistent interindividual behavioral variation (i.e., animal personality) are of wide scientific interest. In poikilotherms, ambient temperature is one of the most important environmental factors with a direct link to a variety of fitness‐related traits. Recent empirical evidence suggests that individual differences in boldness are linked to behavioral thermoregulation strategy in heliothermic species, as individuals are regularly exposed to predators during basking. Here, we tested for links between behavioral thermoregulation strategy, boldness, and individual state in adult males of the high‐mountain Carpetan rock lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni). Principal component analysis revealed the following latent links in our data: (i) a positive relationship of activity with relative limb length and color brightness (PC1, 23% variation explained), (ii) a negative relationship of thermoregulatory precision with parasite load and risk‐taking (PC2, 20.98% variation explained), and (iii) a negative relationship between preferred body temperature and relative limb length (PC3, 19.23% variation explained). We conclude that differences in boldness and behavioral thermoregulatory strategy could be explained by both stable and labile state variables. The moderate link between behavioral thermoregulatory strategy and risk‐taking personality in our system is plausibly the result of differences in reproductive state of individuals or variation in ecological conditions during the breeding season.
PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION OF ETHANOL LEAF EXTRACT OF Vernonia amgydalina (ELVA) ON MALARIA MODEL OF YOUNG MICE

IJRAR2002681 International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews (IJRAR) www.ijrar. org 425 PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION OF ETHANOL LEAF EXTRACT OF Vernonia amgydalina (ELVA) ON MALARIA MODEL OF YOUNG MICE. *ABDULAZEEZ M.A., ABDULLAHI M.S. LIADI Y. M. AMINU A. MUDASSIR L. Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. 2 Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Umaru Musa Yardua University, Katsina State, Nigeria. Department of Pharmacy, Katsina College of Health Sciences and Technology, Katsina State, Nigeria. Department Of Biochemistry, Mewar University, Gangrar ,Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, India Corresponding address: mradvocacy@gmail.com, +234-7034806649
Enhancing Surface Topology of Udimet®720 Superalloy through Ultrasonic Vibration-Assisted Ball Burnishing

This contribution reports the effects of an ultrasonic-vibration assisted ball burnishing process on the topological descriptors of nickel-based alloy Udimet®720. This material is of high interest for the transportation industry, and specifically for the aeronautical sector. Despite the acknowledged necessity to finish this material to achieve excelling mechanical performances of parts, surface integrity enhancement by means of plastic deformation through ball burnishing has seldom been explored in previous references so far. In this paper, different surface descriptors are used to report how the topology changes after ultrasonic-assisted ball burnishing, and how burnishing conditions influence that change. The burnishing preload and the number of passes are the only influential factors on surface change, whereas the feed velocity of the tool and the strategy reveal not to be relevant on the result. Additionally, the extent to which the process successfully modifies the objective surfaces is highly divergent depending on the original scale of the treated surface. The assistance of the process with vibrations also shows that the resulting topologies are characterized by a periodical pattern of repetitive peaks and valleys that are extended on the surface with a higher frequency in comparison to the non-assisted process, which could influence in the functional deployment of workpieces treated through it, and could deliver an advantage with regard to its non-assisted homologous process.
Effect of Pre- ovulatory Follicle Size on Pregnancy Rate in Murrah Buffaloes

In global scenario, buffalo population is increasing continuously, with 109.85 million buffalo population (20 th Livestock census, GOI, 2019) in India alone. Rightly termed as “The Black Gold” (Acharya and Bhat, 1988), they have played a pivotal role in achieving red and white revolution (Raj et al., 2018), but because of their poor breeding capabilities, they are not credited their due importance (Agarwal and Tomar, 2003), the major limitation being lower pregnancy rate after AI (Thirunavukkarasu and Kathiravan, 2009). One of the important aspects of successful AI is the correct time of insemination in synchrony with time of ovulation. It is reported that POF size affects oestrogen levels, oestrus behavior, and subsequent corpus luteum size and pregnancy rate. There are reports indicating positive correlations between pregnancy rate and size of POF at the time of AI in cattle (Nosier, 2003; Perry et al., 2007) and buffaloes International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences ISSN: 2319-7706 Volume 9 Number 8 (2020) Journal homepage: http://www.ijcmas. com
MILLENNIAL LEADERS’ DISPLAY OF GENERATIONAL COHORT STEREOTYPES: A QUALITATIVE RESEARCH APPROACH

This paper investigates how Millennial leaders perceive themselves in their leadership role and whether generational cohort stereotypes prevail with ascending hierarchy levels. There is a lack of research, which applies generational cohort stereotypes to Millennials in a leadership context. This limits our understanding of this generational cohort and how its members can benefit organizations in their role as leaders. Millennials in leadership positions are a new and underresearched phenomenon. Therefore, an explorative, qualitative research approach was followed, including interviews at 15 organizations from different industry segments in Germany. The data was analyzed through a qualitative content analysis. The study shows that Millennial leaders displayed generational stereotypes, but also adapt their behavior to corporate structures. This is problematic since it can limit Generation Ys’ value creating potential for organizations (e.g. driving innovation). This study contributes novel insights on Millennial leadership and organizational challenges in integrating this generational cohort within corporate structures. Organizations are advised to support the development of structures and processes that allow Millennials to unfold their potential. Directions for future research are outlined to further investigate this new phenomenon.
THE IMPACT OF URBAN AND RURAL LAND USE TYPES ON WATER QUALITY OF MEKI RIVER IN SODO WEREDA, GURAGE ZONE, SNNPRS, ETHIOPIA

Drinking water deterioration in most parts of Ethiopia is due to poor sanitation, uncontrolled land conversion and related human activities. Meki River is the only perennial river in Sodo district used for various water needs of the locality. Potentially signif icant impact on the water quality of Meki river due to urban and rural land use activities has not been receiving due attention. This study was aimed to distinguish the impacts of urban and rural land use activities on the surface water quality status of Meki river of Sodo Wereda. The data collection was conducted for three months period from December 2012 to February 2013. Preferred Physico chemical and bacteriological parameter analyses of the river water, collected from the four selected sites were conducted by using standardized laboratory methods to assess the quality of water and extent of pollution. Direct field observation and questionnaire survey were conducted to identify the probable land use activities that have been affecting the water quality in the locality and to know about the community perception on the issue. The study results revealed that the range of physico-chemical parameters including Biochemical oxygen demand (4.50±2.49 to 5.91±2.08 mg/l), Chemical oxygen demand (364.48107.20 mg/l), Total suspended solids (33.33±12.58 to 204.67±5.03 mg/l), Turbidity (4.60±0.36 to8.97±0.47 NTU), Calcium (34.23±3.89 to 108±6.97mg/l), Phosphate (1.47±1.33 to 7.33±0.46 mg/l) and Nitrates (26.33±2.47 to 61±1.25 mg/l) were above the recommended limits of drinking water quality standards by WHO and Ethiopia. Result of bacterial analyses by MPN also exposed that the Total coli form and Fecal coli form count of Meki River were above WHO and Ethiopian standards for drinking water. Survey and field observation results pointed that the deteriorating water quality of Meki river has an unswerving relation with the urban domestic waste generation in the area and unsustainable agricultural practices in the nearby sites of the river. To sustain the ecological status of the river, effective land use management, proper sanitation and awareness programmes to the stakeholders should be followed.
Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Soybean to Post Anthesis Drought Stress

Soybean is an important leguminous crop with high protein and oil contents widely used for human food, animal feed and biofuel production. Although, share of India in the world soybean area is 10 per cent, but its contribution is just only 4 per cent of the total world's production indicating its relatively low productivity as compared to world average (Bhatia et al., 2014). The golden bean is grown mostly by the marginal farmers under rainfed conditions in Madhya Pradesh.