Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Phase diagrams of the Ziff–Gulari–Barshad model on random networks

In this study, we revisited the Ziff–Gulari–Barshad (ZGB) model in order to study the behavior of its phase diagram when two well‐known random networks play the role of the catalytic surfaces: the random geometric graph and the Erdös–Rényi network. The connectivity and, therefore, the average number of neighbors of the nodes of these networks can vary according to their control parameters, the neighborhood radius α, and the linking probability p, respectively. In addition, the catalytic reactions of the ZGB model are governed by the parameter y, the adsorption rate of carbon monoxide molecules on the catalytic surface. So, to study the phase diagrams of the model on both random networks, we carried out extensive steady‐state Monte Carlo simulations in the space parameters (y, α) and (y, p) and showed that the continuous phase transition is greatly affected by the topological features of the networks while the discontinuous one remains present in the diagram throughout the interval of study.
BMI1 promotes steroidogenesis through maintaining redox homeostasis in mouse MLTC-1 and primary Leydig cells

ABSTRACT In males, aging is accompanied by decline in serum testosterone levels due to impairment of testicular Leydig cells. The polycomb protein BMI1 has recently been identified as an anti-aging factor. In our previous study, BMI1 null mice showed decreased serum testosterone and Leydig cell population, excessive oxidative stress and p16/p19 signaling activation. However, a cause-and-effect relationship between phenotypes and pathways was not investigated. Here, we used the rescue approach to study the role of oxidative stress or p16/p19 in BMI1-mediated steroidogenesis. Our results revealed that treatment with antioxidant NAC, but not down-regulation of p16/p19, largely rescued cell senescence, DNA damage and steroidogenesis in BMI1-deficient mouse MLTC-1 and primary Leydig cells. Collectively, our study demonstrates that BMI1 orchestrates steroidogenesis mainly through maintaining redox homeostasis, and thus, BMI1 may be a novel and potential therapeutic target for treatment of hypogonadism.
Comparative evaluation of exotic and adapted germplasm of spring wheat for floral characteristics in the Indo‐Gangetic Plains of northern India

Four hundred spring wheat genotypes, comprising exotic and indigenous germplasm and adapted cultivars for commercial cultivation, were investigated during four crop seasons for six floral characteristics related to outcrossing behaviour. Genetic variability and heritability were investigated along with phenotypic correlation coefficients among these characteristics. A significant quantitative variation existed among the characteristics in all three groups. High heritability for stigma length, openness of florets, anther extrusion and duration of floral opening indicated that selection for these characteristics may be effective. The adapted cultivars were found more promising than the exotic and indigenous germplasm. Most of the characteristics showed significantly positive correlation with each other and high correlation was observed between anther and stigma length, and anther extrusion and duration of floral opening. Superiority of varietal mixtures and segregating generations (F3 and F4) of two crosses over parental lines suggested that heterozygosity and heterogeneity can provide yield advantages. Germplasm lines possessing superior expression of floral characteristics may be used to improve yielding ability through enhanced heterozygosity or the development of hybrids.
Age Affects the Risk of Sexual Cannibalism in Male Crab Spiders (Misumena vatia)

Abstract In certain arthropod groups, including spiders, males seeking copulations may expose themselves to cannibalism from females that are larger and stronger than they are. Although old males are commonly believed to be particularly vulnerable to sexual cannibalism, virtually no data exist to back that supposition. Female crab spiders Misumena vatia (Thomisidae) regularly attacked prospective mates experimentally presented in pairs whose individuals differed in age. They usually attacked the older male; all but one of the seven males cannibalized in these encounters was the older member of the pair. These attacks paralleled a decline in numbers of field-observed males, probably a consequence of their increasing vulnerability. The females' responses appeared to result from differences in male behavior or condition, since virgin females, wild-captured adult (and probably previously mated) females and penultimate females all attacked males with similar frequency.
Composição florística de epífitos vasculares no estreito de Augusto César, Floresta Estacional Decidual do Rio Uruguai, RS, Brasil

The present study was carried out in a Brazilian Semi-Evergreen Forest, exposed to selective logging of tree species, in the "estreito de Augusto Cesar" , RS. The survey of floristic composition of vascular epiphytes was performed in riparian forest. The species registered were classified into categories based on the relationship with the host tree and its position. Seventy species belonging to 30 genera and eight families were registered. The majority of species was classified as characteristic holoepiphyte. The highest number of species was registered on the primary branches.
Composition, Nutrition, and Utilization of Okara (Soybean Residue)

Okara is a by-product generated during tofu or soymilk production processes. It contains about 50% dietary fiber, 25% protein, 10% lipid, and other nutrients. The huge quantities of okara produced annually pose a significant disposal problem. Extensive studies have been done on the chemical composition, nutritional values, and biological activities of okara and on its potential utilization. Due to its high fiber content and low production costs, okara is a good raw material and rich source for preparing fiber and could also be used as a dietary supplement to prevent diabetes, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. Chemical or enzymatic treatment, fermentation, extrusion, high pressure, and micronization can increase the content of soluble fiber of okara, which improves its nutritional quality and processing properties. Fresh okara putrefies quickly due to its high moisture content, so it should be dried as early as possible. This review focuses on the application of okara in the food industry as partial replacement for wheat or soy flour to increase fiber and protein contents of foods. Okara can also be used as a fermentation substrate to produce a variety of products (natto, fibrinolytic enzymes, α-glucosidase inhibitor, β-fructofuranosidase, edible fungi, iturin A, chitosan, alcohol, etc.) for human consumption and nonfood production. In addition, the application of okara in feed and environmentally friendly material has also been documented.
Evaluating heterogeneity in ASD symptomatology, cognitive ability, and adaptive functioning among 16p11.2 CNV carriers

Individuals with 16p11.2 copy number variant (CNV) show considerable phenotypic heterogeneity. Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is reported in approximately 20–23% of individuals with 16p11.2 CNVs, ASD‐associated symptoms are observed in those without a clinical ASD diagnosis. Previous work has shown that genetic variation and prenatal and perinatal birth complications influence ASD risk and symptom severity. This study examined the impact of genetic and environmental risk factors on phenotypic heterogeneity among 16p11.2 CNV carriers. Participants included individuals with a 16p11.2 deletion (N = 96) or duplication (N = 77) with exome sequencing from the Simons VIP study. The presence of prenatal factors, perinatal events, additional genetic events, and gender was studied. Regression analyses examined the contribution of each risk factor on ASD symptomatology, cognitive functioning, and adaptive abilities. For deletion carriers, perinatal and additional genetic events were associated with increased ASD symptomatology and decrements in cognitive and adaptive functioning. For duplication carriers, secondary genetic events were associated with greater cognitive impairments. Being female sex was a protective factor for both deletion and duplication carriers. Our findings suggest that ASD‐associated risk factors contribute to the variability in symptom presentation in individuals with 16p11.2 CNVs.
Effect of Low-Pressure Drainage Suction on Pharyngocutaneous Fistula After Total Laryngectomy

Objective: Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is one of the most severe multifactorial complications following laryngectomy. The current study aimed at determining the effect of a low-pressure vacuum drain on the incidence of PCF after total laryngectomy. Methods: The current randomized clinical trial was conducted on 35 patients undergoing total laryngectomy in Hazrat Rasoul Akram and Firoozgar hospitals in Tehran, Iran. The subjects were divided into the vacuum drain (n = 15) and control (without vacuum drain) (n = 20) groups. The incidence of PCF and the recovery time were recorded. Results: The rate of PCF formation from the stoma and wound edges was significantly lower in the low-pressure vacuum drain group than in the control group (6.7% vs 40%) (P < .05). There was no significant difference between the groups in time to recovery from PCF. Conclusion: The low-pressure vacuum drain method is effective in reducing the incidence of PCF after total laryngectomy.
Population survey of macaques in northern Sulawesi

A field survey of 25 sites in Sulawesi Utara (north Sulawesi) in 1987 and 1988 found macaques in 16 of these sites. The most viable population of Macaca nigra was found in the Tangkoko reserve at an estimated density of 76.2 monkeys/km2, which is less than one‐third the abundance reported in the late 1970s by the MacKinnons. The adjacent reserves of Batuangus and Duasudara had only 22 monkeys/km2, yielding a population estimate for these three contiguous reserves of only 3,655 individuals. Maccaca nigrescens were found in the central and western portions of Dumoga‐Bone National Park in densities of 15.5 and 16.4 monkeys/km2, significantly below the density of 27/km2 reported by the MacKinnons. The more peripheral areas of Dumoga‐Bone had only 8.15 monkeys/km2, yielding a population estimate of M. nigrescens in Dumoga‐Bone of less than 34,000. Our total population estimate for M. nigra and M. nigrescens combined is less than 50,000 individuals, which is considerably below that reported in recent litreture. M. hecki were observed in only two locations, Tangale and Panua Reserves, at low densities of 3.3 to 5.2 monkeys/km2, suggesting its range and abundance have declined since the observations of Groves (pp. 84–124 in THE MACAQUES: STUDIES IN ECOLOGY, BEHAVIOR AND EVOLUTION. D. G. Lindburg, ed. New York, Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1980). Several factors have contributed to population decline in these species: habitat shrinkage, increasing human population pressure, and drought conditions. Group sizes were significantly smaller in our study than in previous ones, and we found a shortage of juveniles and infants.
Demographic and Reproductive Characteristics of Reintroduced Northern River Otters in Kentucky: Implications for Population Growth

Abstract Reproductive parameters and estimates of population size of northern river otters (Lontra canadensis) are poorly documented in southeastern United States. We examined the current population status of river otters in Kentucky, reintroduced in 1991 to 1994, by deriving demographic and reproductive characteristics from necropsies of river otter carcasses collected during harvests in Nov. through Feb., 2006–2009. We derived age distribution, sex ratio, pregnancy rate, and litter size of river otters and used these data to model future population growth of river otters in Kentucky. Data indicate 35.7% of female river otters in the yearling age class showed evidence of reproductive activity. The pregnancy rate (0.72) and average litter size [3.14 ± 1.46(sd)] of adult females was high compared with values reported for established populations of river otters elsewhere in eastern North America; consistent with an expanding and successfully recolonizing population. The population age distribution was skewed toward young age classes, with sex ratio of juvenile animals (1.58∶1.0) significantly favoring males. Models demonstrated the most plausible population growth estimates when using a 5% additive mortality factor, with extinction a possibility at lower published annual survivorship rates (below 0.73). Our data support a conservative harvest rate for sustained long-term management of river otters in Kentucky, especially for the eastern mountain region.
A BRIEF STUDY ON THE COMBINING ABILITIES OF QUANTITATIVE TRAITS IN FIELD PEA (PISUM SATIVUM L.)

The objective of this research was to investigate and estimates of the general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) for the yield-related traits (plant height; height to first pod; number of pods per plant; seeds per plant; seeds per pod; number nodes per plant; inter-node distance; seed weight per plant and 1000 seed weight) in forage pea varieties for identifying suitable parents for pea - breeding programs. The 12 F1's and 12 F2's progenies of four divergent parents (Pleven 10, Mir and EFB33) mated in full diallel scheme. The results of the analysis of combinative ability of the investigated traits showed high significant variance of SCA for all traits both generations with the exception of 1000 seed weight in F1 and seeds per pod in F2. High significant variance of GCA is showed from 1000 seed weight in F1. The additive gene effects play a more importantce a role in the inheritance of seeds per pod, seed weight per plant and 1000 seed weight, in F1 and seeds per pod and inter-node distance in F2. Whereas for the traits plant height; height to first pod; pods per plant; seeds per plant; nodes per plant; fertile nodes per plant in both generations have an influence on non-additive genetic interactions, where SCA was observed to be of higher magnitude than GCA. The parent Mir was found to be good general combiner for traits - plant height, pods, and nodes per plant, Kerpo for seeds weight per plant, Pleven 10 for 1000 seed weight and E.F. B.33 for inter-node distance. The best hybrid combinations due to their desired SCA effects were identified crosses P2 × P4 for number pods, seeds, nodes and fertile nodes per plant, P3 × P1 for plant height, height to first pod and 1000 seed weight and P1 × P3 for number seed per pod. These findings can be utilized further in selection program to enhance the yield potential of pea genotypes.
Phylogenetic Relationships of New World Vicia (Leguminosae) Inferred from nrDNA Internal Transcribed Spacer Sequences and Floral Characters

Abstract The approximately 27 New World species of Vicia (tribe Fabeae, family Leguminosae) were classified into four stylar type groups as follows: (1) a laterally compressed and evenly hairy stylar type (Le-type) group, (2) a dorsiventrally compressed and abaxially tufted hairy stylar type (Dabt-type) group, (3) a dorsiventrally compressed and evenly hairy stylar type (De-type) group, and (4) V. leuncophaea that is characterized by an arcuate style with a dense ring of stylar hairs at a considerable distance from the stigma. In the present study, the stylar distinctions among the groups were confirmed by morphological and anatomical studies on the stylar characters of representative species of the groups. The phylogenetic positions of these groups were then assessed using molecular phylogenetic analysis based on sequences from the nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA) internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the representative species. The New World Le-type stylar group was revealed to be a sister group to the Old World Le-type stylar group. The New World Dabt-type stylar group and V. leucophaea are nested within the Old World Dabt-type stylar group. These New World groups were nested well within the Old World Vicia, suggesting that the New World diversification occurred relatively recently during the evolution of Vicia.
Reprogramming of profibrotic macrophages for treatment of bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis

Fibrotic diseases cause organ failure that lead to ~45% of all deaths in the United States. Activated macrophages stimulate fibrosis by secreting cytokines that induce fibroblasts to synthesize collagen and extracellular matrix proteins. Although suppression of macrophage‐derived cytokine production can halt progression of fibrosis, therapeutic agents that prevent release of these cytokines (e.g., TLR7 agonists) have proven too toxic to administer systemically. Based on the expression of folate receptor β solely on activated myeloid cells, we have created a folate‐targeted TLR7 agonist (FA‐TLR7‐54) that selectively accumulates in profibrotic macrophages and suppresses fibrosis‐inducing cytokine production. We demonstrate that FA‐TLR7‐54 reprograms M2‐like fibrosis‐inducing macrophages into fibrosis‐suppressing macrophages, resulting in dramatic declines in profibrotic cytokine release, hydroxyproline biosynthesis, and collagen deposition, with concomitant increases in alveolar airspaces. Although nontargeted TLR7‐54 is lethal at fibrosis‐suppressing doses, FA‐TLR7‐54 halts fibrosis without evidence of toxicity. Taken together, FA‐TLR7‐54 is shown to constitute a novel and potent approach for treating fibrosis without causing dose‐limiting systemic toxicities.
The impacts of anthropogenic ocean noise on cetaceans and implications for management

Ocean noise pollution is of special concern for cetaceans, as they are highly dependent on sound as their principal sense. Sound travels very efficiently underwater, so the potential area impacted can be thousands of square kilometres or more. The principal anthropogenic noise sources are underwater explosions (nuclear and otherwise), shipping, seismic exploration by mainly the oil and gas industries, and naval sonar operations. Strandings and mortalities of especially beaked whales (family Ziphiidae) have in many cases been conclusively linked to noise events such as naval maneuvers involving tactical sonars or seismic surveys, though other cetacean species may also be involved. The mechanisms behind this mortality are still unknown, but are most likely related to gas and fat emboli at least partially mediated by a behavioral response, such as a change in diving pattern. Estimated received sound levels in these events are typically not high enough to cause hearing damage, implying that the auditory syste.
Crossability of Endemic Species and Aboriginal Varieties of Georgian Wheat and Traits in F1

The research shows that Georgia is a primary centre of the origin and diversity of cultivated wheat, distinguished from other countries by a high level of endemism. It is proved that Georgian endemic species of wheat have played an important role in the evolution of the genus Triticum and process of wheat selection on a global scale. New species, genera, cultivars and varieties of wheat have been obtained on the basis of wheat species endemic to Georgia. Their genotype bears genes which allow to obtain wheat species of a new type with high immunity and quality features. Issues of crossability of endemic species of Georgian wheat with other species as well as with aboriginal and selection varieties of soft wheat, germination capacity of obtained hybrid grains and viability of plants of the first generation are discussed in the present paper. Peculiarities of inheritance of economically important morphological traits in the first generation of plants are shown. © 2012 Bull. Georg. Natl. Acad. Sci.
Clinical Utilization of Blood and Urine Cultures and Incidences of Bacteremia and Bacteriuria in a Hospital in Thailand

Background To effectively treat sepsis and urinary tract infection (UTI), blood and urine cultures should be used appropriately and relative to incidences of bacteremia and bacteriuria. This study aimed to investigate the use of blood and urine cultures and incidences of bacteremia and bacteriuria in a hospital in Thailand. Material/Methods Medical records of patients admitted from 2016 to 2018 were randomly selected and data in the records were anonymously extracted for investigation. Results From 12 000 records, data on blood and urine cultures were extracted from 9% and 4% of them, respectively. The negative rate of blood culture was 87.48%. Bacteremia was detected in 10.22%. The positive rate of urine culture was 27.38% and the contamination rate was 31.26%. Escherichia coli was the most common cause of community-onset bacteremia and bacteriuria. Methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci and Acinetobacter baumannii were the most common cause of hospital-acquired bacteremia while yeasts were the most common cause of hospital-acquired UTI. Conclusions A high negative rate of blood culture may result not only from its low sensitivity but also from liberal test use to identify sepsis in some conditions. Improper urine collection is the main problem with use of urine culture.
Establishment of a new, secure colony of Endangered Bermuda Petrel Pterodroma cahow by translocation of near-fledged nestlings

Summary Until recently, Bermuda Petrel Pterodroma cahow (IUCN Category: ‘Endangered’) bred only in sub-optimal habitat on four small islets in north-east Bermuda. Although intensive management of the population since 1962 has led to a substantial increase in population size (now approaching 100 pairs), the nesting habitat on these four islets is being increasingly inundated, eroded and destroyed by high seas associated with hurricanes and storms. To ensure the long-term conservation of the species a decision was made to establish a new colony at a more secure site on nearby Nonsuch Island, where they once bred in large numbers. Between 2004 and 2008, 104 near-fledged nestlings were translocated to artificial burrows on Nonsuch Island, where they were hand-fed meals of fish and squid. All but three translocated birds fledged successfully, with the first returning to Nonsuch Island in February 2008. The first Bermuda Petrel egg on Nonsuch Island in more than 300 years was laid in January 2009, and the resultant fledgling departed in June of the same year. By the end of the 2009/10 breeding season, a total of 18 Bermuda Petrels have been recorded on Nonsuch Island, 17 were translocated as near-fledged nestlings, and one bird came from the existing colonies. A total of five eggs have been produced, resulting in two fledglings. The establishment of this new colony, at a site that is much more secure than the existing nesting sites, greatly enhances the conservation prospects of the species and demonstrates the importance of translocation as a tool for the conservation of threatened seabirds.
Cultural Perspectives : Siding in a Workplace Dispute in China

Employees in the role of outsider can be faced with a dispute between colleagues. Taking sides is a crucially important, yet neglected tactic in handling disputes. In a study of 226 Chinese employees, we investigated the influence of employees' moral and expedient orientations on their siding intentions in a workplace dispute characterized by different distributions of legitimacy, negative sanctions and guanxi. Results indicate that legitimacy information leads moral-oriented employees to side with a legitimacy party whereas sanction information leads expedient-oriented employees to side with a sanction party. However, the Chinese employees also take guanxiinto account. Guanxias contrasting information decreased both the extent to which the strong-moral, weak-expedient-oriented Chinese employees sided with a legitimacy party, and the extent to which weak-moral, strong-expedient-oriented employees sided with a sanction party. Implications of these results for developing a universal theory of siding are discussed.