Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Randomized Safety Studies of Intravenous Perflubron Emulsion. II. Effects on Immune Function in Healthy Volunteers

Particle size distribution is a major determinant of particle clearance by the mononuclear phagocytic system and the potential for concomitant activation of resident macrophages. To test the safety of a second-generation perflubron-based emulsion (60% perfluorocarbon [PFC] wt/vol; Oxygent™ [Alliance Pharmaceutical Corp., San Diego, CA]) with a small mean particle size, two parallel, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled studies were conducted in 48 healthy volunteers (n = 24 per study). The study described herein focuses on safety concerning immune function. The primary endpoint was defined prospectively as delayed hypersensitivity skin test responses with lymphocyte proliferative responses to mitogenic stimulation providing a secondary measure for changes in cell-mediated immunity. Subjects received either perflubron emulsion IV (1.2 g PFC/kg or 1.8 g PFC/kg) or saline (3 mL/kg) control. Perflubron emulsion had no effect on delayed hypersensitivity skin reactions, lymphocyte proliferative potential, circulating immunoglobulins, complement activation, or plasma levels of the inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-&agr;, interleukin-1 &agr;, and interleukin-1 &bgr;. Perflubron emulsion was generally well tolerated, although there was a dose-dependent increase in minor flu-like symptoms in the perflubron treatment groups at 24 h after dosing. Increased serum levels of interleukin-6 were observed in those subjects exhibiting febrile responses. The clinical safety profile of perflubron emulsion supports its continued investigation as a temporary oxygen carrier in surgical patients to reduce exposure to allogeneic blood transfusion. Implications In major surgical procedures, perfluorocarbon-based temporary oxygen carriers are potentially important alternatives to blood transfusion. Early perfluorocarbon-based oxygen carriers were limited by side effects that have been overcome with the newer, second-generation oxygen carriers. This report summarizes Phase I clinical safety findings of an improved second-generation oxygen carrier, perflubron emulsion.
Fecundity dynamics of female spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) in a south Florida fishery and Dry Tortugas National Park lobster sanctuary

Using diver surveys, we compared the size structure, fecundity, and reproductive season of spiny lobsters (Panulirus argus) in the Dry Tortugas National Park lobster sanctuary with those of spiny lobsters in the south Florida fishery. The number of lobsters of both sexes larger than the legal size limit declined sharply in the fishery but not in the sanctuary. Clutch sizes were larger in the Dry Tortugas sanctuary, averaging 0.8 million, than in the fishery, averaging 0.3 million. The reproductive season was shorter and more intense in the sanctuary than in the fishery. In addition, lobsters in the sanctuary begin producing eggs at a larger size and produce more eggs per gram of body mass than lobsters in the fishery. Peak egg production occurs earlier in larger lobsters than in small ones. Establishing a fundamental reason for the differences between lobster reproduction in the sanctuary and that in the fishery is not possible until the chronological age of lobsters can be determined, but one hypothesis consistent with these differences is that, if lobsters reproduce at a certain chronological age, then sublethal fishery practices may account for slower growth for some lobsters resulting in some smaller but older reproductively active lobsters.
Response of macrobenthic communities to an hydraulic intervention in an enclosed lagoon (Valle di Gorino, northern Italy)

To assess the recovery of the lagoon in the Valle di Gorino, Italy, the macrobenthic assemblages were studied throughout a two year period, i.e. before and after the opening of a floodgate. Three stations were located along a gradient of confinement, and sampled for macrofauna, water and sedimentary parameters. Analyses were performed through univariate and multivariate techniques. The macrobenthic assemblages were characterized by a small total number of species, strong dominance in number by a few of these species, and low diversity, but changes in community structure and composition were clearly recognizable. Significant negative correlations were found between macroalgae and macrobenthic community attributes. The altered hydrological regime due to the opening of the floodgate disrupted macroalgal cycles and altered the related macrofaunal successional dynamics: species linked to the macroalgal degradation phase became dominant throughout the Valle. After the intervention, all areas exhibited similar species composition and abundances, and appeared to be in a permanently disturbed condition. A rescaling of environmental conditions repositioned species roles in the community: those species which were typical of a certain phase of the former successional progression, were successively dominating the whole lagoon, irrespective of time and the estuarine gradient. After the intervention, the spatial and temporal distribution of macrobenthic taxa was under the control of factors linked to organic enrichment of the sediments.
An acoustic survey of zoophagic bats on islands in the Kimberley, Western Australia, including data on the echolocation ecology, organisation and habitat relationships of regional communities

Bat ultrasound was recorded on 30 of the in-shore islands along the Northern Kimberley coast as part of a biological survey to assess their conservation potential as microcosms of the region's biodiversity. Species were identifi ed from their search-mode echolocation call sequences using a call library based (mainly) on two variables: the frequency maintained for the greatest number of cycles (F peakC ) and sharpness quotient (Q ). Populations of 20 of the 21 species that comprise the Northern Kimberley region's zoophagic bat fauna are now known to occur on these islands, an average of 8±0.6 (S.E.) species per island. The Kimberley has two compositionally distinct bat communities, one occupying landward environments and the other occupying mangroves. Both were represented on the islands. In each community, the search-mode calls of syntopic species were dispersed in spectral space, with few showing more than peripheral overlap in their spectral variables (Q and F peakC ). Their different call designs were functionally appropriate to differences in (1) foraging niche predicted from empirical data on species' fl ight capabilities and foraging behaviours, and (2) airframe variables related to fl ight performance and control. These observations imply a niche-assembly model of metacommunity structure. Pleistocene climatic fl uctuations and habitat fi ltering also appear to have infl uenced metacommunity structure at regional scales. However, nestedness was observed in assemblage composition that could be explained by environmental factors, implying the infl uence of environmental controls. The richest bat assemblages were recorded on the most mesic of the large inshore islands with cavernous landscapes and permanent pools. Comparison with surrounding regions revealed a diversity-productivity model of faunal structure, with an organisation that conforms to the specialisation hypothesis. Six islands, including their mangrove stands, are identifi ed as priorities for conservation.
Inhibition of Escherichia coli Heat-labile Enterotoxin by an Amino Carbonyl Product, Lactose-α-lactalbumin

The inhibition by lactose-α-lactalbumin amino carbonyl product of Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin was studied by GM1-ELISA and by assay with CHO-K1 cells. The product dose-dependently inhibited the binding of the enterotoxin to GM1 gan-glioside and decreased the morphological change of CHO-K1 cells caused by this toxin. The results suggest that this product may be a receptor analogue in the intestine.
Effect of nitrogen sources, sulphur and boron levels on productivity, nutrient uptake and quality of sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

A field experiment was conducted during spring season of 2005 and 2006 on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) at New Delhi to study the effect of N sources (prilled urea and calcium ammonium nitrate), S levels (0, 25 and 50 kglha) and B levels (0, 0.75 and 1.50 kgtha) on yield attributes, yield and the oil quality of spring sunflower. Appli- cation of N, S and B fertilizers increased significantly yield attributes, yield and the oil quality parameters of spring sunflower. Calcium ammonium nitrate proved superior to urea in terms of nutrient concentration and their uptake by sunflower. Application of 25 kg Slha was more effective in increasing the growth, yield attributes and yields than of 50 kg Slha. However, the highest seed yield (1.99 ffha) was recorded with 50 kg Slha, which was 13% higher than that of the control. Boron application Q 0.75 kg and 1.5 kglha was effective and the crop responded well up to the second dose, and the higher (1.5 kglha) level gave the highest seed yield (2.01 ffha), which was 13.5 and 6.3% more than of the control and 0.75 kg Blha respectively. It also increased the total nutrient concentration and their uptake by sunflower. Application of S and B markedly improved the content of unsaturated fatty acids (linoleic and oleic) and reduced that of the saturated fatty acids (palmitic and stearic). S and B application reduced the sa- ponification but increased the iodine value significantly. The N sources and S and B levels did not show marked changes in the acid value of sunflower oil. Thus, application of 80 kg Nlha through calcium ammonium nitrate along with 25 kg Slha and 1.50 kg Blha would be sufficient to sustain the productivity and quality of spring sun- flower under north Indian conditions.
Effects of polymer additives on fermentation parameters in a culture of A. niger

Of 24 different polymer and surfactant materials examined, a carboxypolymethylene (“Carbopol”) was found to cause enhancement of respiration rates in an Aspergillus niger culture by as much as 200%. Enhancement of other fermentation parameters, such as cellular growth and amylase production, was also observed.
Sleep Problems in Chinese School-Aged Children with a Parent-Reported History of ADHD

Objective: The objective was to survey the prevalence of parent-reported ADHD diagnosis and to assess its associations with sleep problems among urban school-aged children in China. Method: A random sample of 20,152 school-aged children participated in a cross-sectional survey in eight cities of China. A parent-administered questionnaire and the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire were completed to quantify history of ADHD diagnosis and sleep problems, respectively. Results: Slightly more than 4% of Chinese school-aged children were reported to have a history of ADHD diagnosis. The multivariate regression models revealed that, after controlling for some confounders—such as gender, parents' educational level, family income, family structure, and stimulant medication—there was a higher prevalence of sleep problems, especially parasomnias, sleep-disordered breathing, and daytime sleepiness, in children with a history of ADHD diagnosis. Conclusion: The results emphasized the importance of incorporating screens of sleep problems into the evaluation of ADHD.
19 Expression and Functional Activities of Glucose Transporters in the Central Nervous System

The family of facilitative glucose transporter (GLUT) proteins is responsible for the entry of glucose into cells throughout the periphery and the brain. The expression, regulation and activity of glucose transporters play an essential role in neuronal homeostasis, since glucose represents the primary energy source for the brain. Brain GLUTs exhibit both cell type and region specific localizations suggesting that the transport and utilization of glucose in the CNS is tightly regulated and compartmentalized. Brain GLUTs also exhibit discrete localizations, as well as unique subcellular localizations, indicating that GLUTs may be involved in highly specialized activities in the CNS such as glucose sensing. Insulin sensitive GLUTs are expressed in the brain suggesting that GLUTs may participate in the central actions of insulin, including cognitive function and homeostatic control of food intake. These results illustrate that the expression, regulation and trafficking of brain GLUTs are critically involved in maintaining neuronal homeostasis and responsiveness. List of Abbreviations: AD, Alzheimer’s disease; ANLSH, astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle hypothesis; BBB, blood–brain barrier; CNS, central nervous system; CORT, corticosterone; EM, electron microscopic; GC, glucocorticoid; GE, glucose-excited; GFAP, glial fibrillary acidic protein; GI, glucose-inhibited; GLUT, glucose transporter; GLUT1DS, GLUT1 deficiency syndrome; HDM, high-density microsomal; LDM, lowdensity microsomal; MCI, mild cognitive impairment; MCT, monocarboxylate transporter; NG, nonglucosensing; SUR1, sulfonylurea receptor; VMN, ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus
Effect of squid meal in dry pellets on the spawning performance of striped jack Pseudocaranx dentex

SUMMARY: This study was carried out to investigate the effects of dietary squid meal or a combination of squid meal and krill meal as part of the protein source in dry pellets on the spawning of striped jack Pseudocaranx dentex. Five months prior to spawning, 7-year-old fish were divided into three groups of 10 fish each (male : female ratio, 5 : 5). The control group was fed a raw fish mix (RF) and the other two groups were fed either steam-dry pellets with squid meal replacing 50% of their fish meal (fs-DP) or steam-dry pellets containing equal proportions of fish, squid and krill meals (fsk-DP). Feeding was carried out once every other day in 5 × 5 × 5 m floating net cages and the fish were transferred to 65 m3 indoor tanks for spawning. Eggs and yolksac larvae produced were evaluated for their quality and those obtained during the first 2 weeks of spawning were sampled for chemical analysis. The fish had an average bodyweight of 3.5 ± 0.4 kg at spawning. Although egg production of the RF group was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of the dry pellet groups, the fs-DP group produced the best quality eggs with higher fertilization and hatching rates. The fsk-DP group had the lowest egg production and quality. Lipid classes and fatty acid compositions of eggs and yolksac larvae were dependent on the broodstock diets. These results show that the combination of fish meal and squid meal in dry pellets for striped jack improved egg quality but not production whereas the combination of fish meal, squid meal and krill meal was not effective.
On Integration

the monitoring of indicators of food security in the countries of the Eurasian economic union (EaEu) context of eurasian ABSTRACT: Positive trends in the financial recovery of food security of the EAEU countries are possible only in the conditions of fundamental changes in agricultural policy, methods and mechanisms of its implementation. The main feature of such changes should be real respect for the priority of food security. As the domestic market is saturated with domestic goods, the emphasis of the coordinated policy of the EAEU countries will shift towards enhancing cooperation in the field of food supply. This understanding determines the actions aimed at strengthening the integration processes in the Eurasian economic Union. The basis for the successful implementation of the agreed agricultural policy in the EAEU is to follow the principles of equality and consideration of the interests of all member States of the Eurasian economic Union, the development of compromise, mutually beneficial and mutually acceptable solutions, coordinated security.
Qualidade dos ensaios de competição de cultivares de milho no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul

This study aimed to quantify the proportion of experiments with statistical difference for blocks, cultivar and the F test assumption (additivity, normal distribution, random error, and error variance homogeneity among cultivars) observance. Also, the effects on the least significant difference (LSD) based on Tukey test (P=0.05) were quantified when some assumption was not observed. The statistical analysis was based upon 307 sets of experimental cultivar competition data carried out from 1993 to 1996 in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Among the experiments with significant differences in treatments (cultivars), 85.67% had an average LSD equal to 30.28%. Low frequency of non assumption observance was verified and increased the LSD. Lack of additivity on the model occured in 8.75% the trials and not modify LSD of data transformation. No random error effect was verified in 9.88% of the experiments due to variability among plots at the same block caused by inadequate block placement in the experimental area.
A NEW CLASSIFICATION OF THE BRACONIDAE (HYMENOPTERA) BASED ON THE CEPHALIC STRUCTURES OF THE FINAL INSTAR LARVA AND BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE

Abstract The cephalic structures of the final instar larva of 278 species of 140 genera of Braconidae were examined. On the basis of these and biological data, modifications are proposed in the classification of the higher categories. Zele (Helconinae) and Eubadizon (Blacinae) are placed in the Macrocentrinae (endoparasites of larval Lepidoptera) and Meteoridea is moved from the Helconinae and ranked as an independent subfamily. The Blacinae is completely dismembered: Aliolus, Triaspis, Urosigalphus, Blacus, and Calyptus form a tribe of the Helconinae (endoparasites of larval Coleoptera); Microtypus, Orgilus, and Stantonia form a tribe of the Agathidinae (endoparasites of larval Lepidoptera); and Pygostolus, Centistes, and Syrrhizus a subfamily near Euphorinae with Cosmophorus (endoparasites of adult Coleoptera). Present genera of Microgasterinae are separated into two tribes with the addition of the Cardiochilini as a third tribe. The Dacnusinae is reduced to a tribe of the Alysiinae. The Rogadinae is reduced to one tribe, Rogadini, containing only Rogas and allied genera (endoparasites of larval Lepidoptera). Rhyssalus is transferred to the Hecabolini, and Exothecini, Pambolini, Hormiini, and ectoparasitic Rogadini to the Braconinae (ectoparasites of larval Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, etc.). The problematic genus Gnaptodon is also placed in the Braconinae.
Comparison between the infestation rate of certain pests on cucumber and kidney bean and its relation with abiotic factors and anatomical characters.

Two host planst, Cucumber, Cucumis sativus L. and kidney bean Phaseolus vulgaris L. were sown at Horticultural Research Station at Kaha region, Qalubiya Governorate, Egypt to determine the host preference to certain pests including, thrips Thrips tabaci (Lind.), aphids, whitefly, Bemisia. tabaci (Genn.) and the two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae (Koch) and its relationship with climatic factors and anatomical characters during two successive seasons 2011 and 2012. The results indicated that the infestation rate of B. tabaci and T. tabaci increased on cucumber leaves more than kidney bean. On the contrary, kidney bean was suitable host to development of aphid and T. urticae. The incidences of the four studied pests were significant and positive correlated with maximum temperature and maximum relative humidity. While, the population density of these pests positively correlated and non-significant with minimum temperature. On the contrary, the minimum relative humidity had negative and non-significant effect on the two host plants. In the two host plants, anatomical characters of play an important role in the infestation rates of the previously mentioned pests. Kidney bean had the thickest layers of upper& lower epidermis and spongy tissues and the thinnest layer of palisade tissue. On the other hand, cucumber leaves had the thickest layer of palisade tissue. The population density of all pests had positive relationship and significant with palisade and spongy layers. While, this relation was significantly negative with upper and lower epidermis. i.e., infestation rates of all studied pests increased by increasing the thickest layers of palisade and spongy tissues and decreased by increasing the thickest of upper and lower epidermis. The amount of variability that could be attributed to the combined effect of the tested weather factors and anatomical characters on the four studied pests was more than 60%.
Genetic and Phenotypic Variation Among Faba Bean Landraces and Cultivars

Landraces of crops can contain phenotypic and genotypic variability that can be exploited so that new lines can be developed. The phenotypic and genotypic variability among 11 Jordanian faba bean (Vicia faba L.) landraces and five imported cultivars were studied. Yield and 12 yield components and yield-related traits were evaluated at two locations. Analysis indicated significant variability among germplasm for all characters and among locations for 10 characters, in which final plant height, pods/plant, and seeds/pod were not significant. Genetic variability and relationships among germplasm were established using 12 single sequence repeat (SSR) primer pairs. Eleven primers were particularly efficient in amplification of banding patterns among germplasm. The overall polymorphic percentage for the 31 loci generated by 11 SSR markers was 84%. This was sufficient to estimate genetic variation among faba bean germplasm. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic average ordered germplasm into three groups based on a Dice similarity coefficient of 0.71, range 0.7 to 0.89. Clustering based on phenotypical traits indicated five smaller groups that were consistent with the three larger SSR-based groups. These landraces can be used for future faba bean breeding programs and derivation of new plant lines.
GENETIC VARIABILITYAND CORRELATION STUDIES FOR MORPHO- PHYSIOLOGICAL TRAITS IN BRASSICA NAPUS L.

Genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and correlation were determined in ten Brassica napus L. genotypes for morpho-physiological traits at The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan. Significant differences among genotypes for most of the characters indicated presence of sufficient genetic variability for effective selection. High heritability and high genetic advance were observed for flowering initiation, 50% flowering and flowering completion, plant height, seeds pod -1 and 100-seed weight. Significant positive correlations were observed for plant height with main raceme length (r=0.48**), pods main raceme -1 (r=0.67**) and 100-seed weight (r=0.47**). Seeds pod -1 was positively correlated with pod length (r=0.51**) and pod width (r=0.46**). Similar associations were observed for pod length with pod width (r=0.44*) and 100-seed weight (r=0.59**). Plant height, seeds pod -1 , pod length and 100-seed weight can be used as selection criteria.