Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Age, Size, and Growth of the Chilean Frog Pleurodema thaul (Anura: Leiuperidae): Latitudinal and Altitudinal Effects

Abstract Age, longevity, size, and the effects of climate on growth and age at sexual maturity were analyzed in four populations of Pleurodema thaul (Leiuperidae) from Chile by comparing two populations at different latitudes but similar altitude (Limarí and Chaitén), and two populations at similar latitude but different altitudes (Itata and Laja). Body size was measured and age was estimated by skeletochronology applied to phalanges. In each population there was a positive relationship between body size and age, and growth decreased gradually after maturity. The longevity was estimated to be five years for females and males; age structures were similar between sexes. Pleurodema thaul showed intra-population variation in the degree of sexual dimorphism in growth patterns, age at sexual maturity, and size. Females were larger than males in the low altitude and latitude populations (Limarí and Itata), but did not differ significantly at high altitude and latitude populations (Chaitén and Laja). In all populations, sexual maturity was reached at two years of age by both sexes except that some females at high altitude and latitude did not mature until three years of age. The growth coefficient, according to von Bertalanffy's model, was greater in females than in males from Chaitén, greater in males from Limarí, and was similar between sexes in Itata and Laja. Pleurodema thaul populations from high latitude and altitude showed slower growth than populations from low latitude and altitude, but individuals achieved larger body size. The mean annual growth rate was greater in populations located at high altitude or latitude for males and females. These results allow inference of the responses of amphibians to changes in the environment, which is key for generating conservation strategies.
Imidazolium salts as antifungal agents: activity against emerging yeast pathogens, without human leukocyte toxicity

This study demonstrates the excellent in vitro antifungal activity profile of imidazolium ionic liquids (ILs) against species of opportunistic human mycoses. Several ILs were identified as more effective and less harmful than commercially available antifungal medications. Frequently, emerging yeast pathogens are resistant against commercial antifungal agents and, as a consequence, this class of imidazolium ILs represents a promising breakthrough in their treatment.
The effects of logs, stumps, and root throws on understory communities within 28-year-old aspen-dominated boreal forests

This study examined the role of logs, stumps, and root throws on the understory composition of aspen-dominated boreal forests. Measures of microsite coverage and suitability, and vascular plant composition and abundance were taken from 28-year-old wildfire and harvest sites. Larger logs (>20 cm diameter) with soft surfaces were the most suitable for colonization by vascular plants. These logs covered more than five times the area of stumps or root throws in both harvest and wildfire sites. Detrended correspondence analysis revealed that logs and stumps were colonized by a significantly different assemblage of vascular plants than the forest floor of either disturbance type. Contrary to studies in other forest types, assemblages of plants on root throw pits and mounds were similar to those on the forest floor. Initial colonization patterns on logs and stumps in both wildfire and harvest sites were similar. However, on more decayed logs assemblages of vascular plants were more similar to their respective wi.
Patterns of growth and physical maturity in the western Mediterranean striped dolphin, Stenella coeruleoalba (Cetacea: Odontoceti)

The growth and physical maturation of striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) of the northern section of the western Mediterranean Sea were studied. Fitted Gompertz growth curves indicate that females grow faster than males when they are young, but their growth ceases and the asymptotic length is attained earlier than in males. Asymptotic length was greater in males (200 cm) than in females (194 cm). Males reached vertebral physical maturity at 15–20 years old and females earlier, at 13–18 years old. Cranial maturity was apparently achieved at similar ages and body lengths. The radius and ulna, however, completed their ossification much earlier, again showing sexual dimorphism, with females maturing at a younger age (5–6 years) and smaller body length (160–175 cm) than males (8–9 years and 170–181 cm). Age-related parameters of physical maturation and growth determined for this population were similar to those estimated for the striped dolphins inhabiting Japanese waters, while length-related parameters .
A combined morphological and molecular phylogeny of the genus Chironius Fitzinger, 1826 (Serpentes: Colubridae)

Chironius is one of the most speciose genera of the South American colubrid snakes. Although the genus represents a well-known radiation of diurnal racers, its monophyly, affinities with other Neotropical colubrid genera, and intrageneric relationships are open questions. Here, we present a phylogenetic analysis of Chironius based on a data matrix that combines one nuclear (c-mos) and two mitochondrial (12S and 16S rRNA) genes with 37 morphological characters derived from scutellation, skull, and hemipenial features. Phylogenetic relationships were inferred using maximum parsimony (MP) and maximum likelihood (ML). Our combined morphological and molecular analyses strongly support the monophyly of the genus Chironius and its sister-group relationship with a clade formed by the genera Dendrophidion and Drymobius. Phylogenetic relationships within the genus Chironius is still controversial, although five clades are retrieved with medium to strong support. © 2014 The Linnean Society of London
Comparative Histological and Ultrastructural Studies on the Stomach of Schilbe mystus and the Intestinal Swelling of Labeo niloticus

The present investigation aims to illustrate the histological and ultrastructural differences of the stomach of a carnivorous fish, Schilbe mystus, and the intestinal swelling of a herbivorous fish, Labeo niloticus . The stomach of Schilbe mystus is morphologically divided into three portions: the cardiac, pyloric and fundic portions. However, the histological examination revealed that the stomach is actually divided into two portions: the cardio-fundic portion and the pyloric one. Moreover, the mucosa of the cardiofundic portion of the stomach of Schilbe mystus revealed that it consists of two types of cells: the luminal and glandular cells. The luminal cells, which line the gastric lumen and gastric pits, are tall columnar with apically concentrated secretory granules that have a positive PAS reaction. In addition, the glandular cells, which line the bodies of the gastric glands, are pyramidal in shape and possess scattered secretory granules. The pyloric portion of the stomach has the same structure as the cardio-fundic portion, but the gastric glands are completely absent. The histological examination of the mucosa of the intestinal swelling of Labeo niloticus revealed that it is built up of a simple columnar epithelium that contains goblet cells. The ultrastructural examination of the gastric mucosa of the stomach of Schilbe mystus revealed three types of cells: the luminal, endocrine and exocrine (oxynticopeptic) cells. The luminal cells are tall columnar and are characterized by the presence of apically aggregated secretory granules and a prominent vesiculotubular system. The gastric endocrine cells are mainly pyramidal in shape and are characterized by numerous secretory granules, which exhibit various sizes and shapes. According to the dominant size of the secretory granules, the endocrine cells are differentiated into three types: type-I, type-2 and type-3 cells. Moreover, the gastric glands of Schilbe mystus are made up of a single type of exocrine cells, the oxynticopeptic cells. The oxynticopeptic cells are characterized by the combined features of the mammalian oxyntic and peptic cells. The oxynticopeptic cells have numerous apical microvilli, a well-developed vesiculotubular system, numerous mitochondria, a rough endoplasmic reticulum and numerous secretory granules.The ultrastructural examination of the mucosa of the intestinal swelling of Labeo ni/oticus revealed that the enterocytes are tall columnar and possess welldeveloped microvilli, numerous mitochondria, microtubules, a few endocytotic channels and aggregated chylomicrons. (S. A. A. Naguib; H. A. EI-Shabaka and F. Ashour. Comparative Histological and Ultrastructural Studies on the Stomach of Schilbe mystus and the Intestinal Swelling of Labeo niloticus. Journal of American Science 2011;7(8):251-263). (ISSN: 1545-1003). http://www.americanscience. org .
Testing and Analysis of Drinking Water Quality in the Rural Areas of High-tech District in Tai’an City

In order to understand the sanitation condition of drinking water in the rural areas of High-tech District in Tai'an City, and to provide scientific bases for drinking water quality improvement and public health protection, water quality was tested and analyzed using the methods recommended in the China national health standard GB5750-85, which included 14 indicators, i.e. sensory characteristics, general chemical indicators, toxicological indicators and bacteriological indicators. The results showed that the contents of total coliform, ammonia nitrogen and iron exceeded the standards, and the contents of volatile phenol and Cr (VI), and the total hardness slightly exceeded the standards. It was concluded that drinking water, especially well water in the rural areas of High-tech District in Tai'an City was slightly polluted. Therefore, currently the related government departments should focus on strengthening "the three wastes" treatment and sanitation management of drinking water transmission, and providing additional water disinfection facilities.
Regimes of soft lubrication

Abstract Elastohydrodynamic lubrication, or simply soft lubrication, refers to the motion of deformable objects near a boundary lubricated by a fluid, and is one of the key physical mechanisms to minimise friction and wear in natural and engineered systems. Hence, it is of particular interest to relate the thickness of the lubricant layer to the entrainment (sliding/rolling) velocity, the mechanical loading exerted onto the contacting elements and the properties of the elastic boundary. In this work, we provide an overview of the various regimes of soft lubrication for two-dimensional cylinders in lubricated contact with compliant walls. We discuss the limits of small and large entrainment velocity, which are equivalent to large and small elastic deformations, as the cylinder moves near thick or thin elastic layers. The analysis focusses on thin elastic coatings, both compressible and incompressible, for which analytical scaling laws are not yet available in the regime of large deformations. By analysing the elastohydrodynamic boundary layers that appear at the edge of the contact, we establish the missing scaling laws – including prefactors. As such, we offer a rather complete overview of the physically relevant limits of soft lubrication.
Seasonal incidence of insect-pests of blackgram, Vigna mungo (Linn.) and its correlation with abiotic factors.

Biotic and abiotic factors limit the productivity of blackgram including insect pests like leafhopper, Empoasca kerri , whitefly, Bemisia tabaci , tobacco caterpillar, Spodoptera litura , semilooper, Trichoplusia ni and bihar hairy caterpillar, Spilosoma obliqua . The high population of 3.49 whiteflies/leaf was observed during 39 th standard week. Whitefly and leafhopper population with sunshine hours showed non-significant negative correlation while rainfall, temperature (minimum and maximum), relative humidity (morning and evening), and wind velocity showed a non significant positive correlation. The highest population of tobacco caterpillar, 3.83 larvae/m 2 was recorded during 40 th SW. Rainfall and wind velocity showed non-significant negative correlation while temperature (minimum and maximum), relative humidity (morning and evening) and sunshine showed a non-significant positive correlation with the population of S. litura . Maximum level of T. ni population 8.37 larvae/m 2 attained during 39 th SW. Population of T. ni had significant positive correlation with minimum temperature and evening relative humidity. The highest population of S. obliqua , 29.50 larvae/m 2 was recorded during 40 th SW. Rainfall and wind velocity with S. obliqua population showed significant negative correlation. Maximum level of coccinellids 2.36/m 2 was recorded during 39 th SW. Rainfall, wind velocity and sunshine showed non-significant negative correlation while temperature (minimum and maximum) and relative humidity (morning and evening) showed non-significant positive correlation.
Do geographic, climatic or historical ranges differentiate the performance of central versus peripheral populations?

We are grateful to Arndt Hampe and three anonymous referees for their constructive comments on the manuscript. Funding was provided by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Technology through a doctoral grant (FPI, BES-2011-045169), and the project CAMBIO, CGL2010-21642. D.F. D. and W.F. M. received funding from the US National Science Foundation. We thank GBIF, Anthos, WorldClim and the Palaeoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project for making their data freely available online. We also thank R. Braza for French data, M. Pata for helping with statistical analysis, I. Pardo and W. Thuiller for insightful discussions, P. Errea and R. Drummond for helping with the treatment of geographic data, as well as M. Maza for providing pictures of the plants. Finally, numerous people helped to collect demographic and genetic data.
An Improved Analysis of Stochastic Gradient Descent with Momentum

SGD with momentum (SGDM) has been widely applied in many machine learning tasks, and it is often applied with dynamic stepsizes and momentum weights tuned in a stagewise manner. Despite of its empirical advantage over SGD, the role of momentum is still unclear in general since previous analyses on SGDM either provide worse convergence bounds than those of SGD, or assume Lipschitz or quadratic objectives, which fail to hold in practice. Furthermore, the role of dynamic parameters have not been addressed. In this work, we show that SGDM converges as fast as SGD for smooth objectives under both strongly convex and nonconvex settings. We also prove that multistage strategy is beneficial for SGDM compared to using fixed parameters. Finally, we verify these theoretical claims by numerical experiments.
Understanding Implicit Regularization in Over-Parameterized Nonlinear Statistical Model

We study the implicit regularization phenomenon induced by simple optimization algorithms in over-parameterized nonlinear statistical models. Specifically, we study both vector and matrix single index models where the link function is nonlinear and unknown, the signal parameter is either a sparse vector or a low-rank symmetric matrix, and the response variable can be heavy-tailed. To gain a better understanding the role of implicit regularization in the nonlinear models without excess technicality, we assume that the distribution of the covariates is known as a priori. For both the vector and matrix settings, we construct an over-parameterized least-squares loss function by employing the score function transform and a robust truncation step designed specifically for heavy-tailed data. We propose to estimate the true parameter by applying regularization-free gradient descent to the loss function. When the initialization is close to the origin and the stepsize is sufficiently small, we prove that the obtained solution achieves minimax optimal statistical rates of convergence in both the vector and matrix cases. In particular, for the vector single index model with Gaussian covariates, our proposed estimator is shown to enjoy the oracle statistical rate. Our results capture the implicit regularization phenomenon in over-parameterized nonlinear and noisy statistical models with possibly heavy-tailed data.
Apicidin Induces Apoptosis via Cytochrome c-Mediated Intrinsic Pathway in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are a promising class of anticancer agents that inhibit cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Previous report has shown that apicidin inhibited SK-OV-3 cells proliferation and down-regulation of cyclin B1 and CDK1, and up-regulation of p21 WAF1 and p27. However, the mechanism of apicidin-mediated apoptotic cell death is not clearly understood. For this study, we investigated the mechanism of apoptotic pathway induced by apicidin in human ovarian cancer cell. We found that SK-OV-3 cells treated with apicidin caused an increase in the percentage of cells in the G2/M phase, which preceded apoptosis characterized by the appearance of cells with sub-G1 population. To further investigate the mechanism of apoptosis induction by apicidin, we measured TUNEL assay, poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage, and caspase activity in SK-OV-3 cells treated with apicidin for 48 h. Apicidin significantly enhanced apoptosis as measured by TUNEL positive apoptotic cells, PARP cleavage, and increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Induction of apoptosis was confirmed by the release of cytochrome c to cytosol. Our data suggest that apicidin-induced apoptosis in SK-OV-3 cells was accompanied by caspase-3 activation and the increase in Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. These data suggest that apicidin may be effective in the treatment of ovarian cancer through activation of intrinsic apoptotic pathway.
Social capital and resilience make an employee cooperate for coronavirus measures and lower his/her turnover intention

An important theme is how to maximize the cooperation of employees when dealing with crisis measures taken by the company. Therefore, to find out what kind of employees have cooperated with the company's measures in the current corona (COVID-19) crisis, and what effect the cooperation has had to these employees/companies to get hints for preparing for the next crisis, the pass analysis was carried out using awareness data obtained from a questionnaire survey conducted on 2,799 employees of Japanese companies in China. The results showed that employees with higher social capital and resilience were more supportive of the company's measures against corona and that employees who were more supportive of corona measures were less likely to leave their jobs. However, regarding fatigue and anxiety about the corona felt by employees, it was shown that it not only works to support cooperation in corona countermeasures but also enhances the turnover intention. This means that just by raising the anxiety of employees, even if a company achieves the short-term goal of having them cooperate with the company's countermeasures against corona, it may not reach the longer-term goal by making them increase their intention to leave. It is important for employees to be aware of the crisis and to fear it properly. But more than that, it should be possible for the company to help employees stay resilient, build good relationships with them, and increase their social capital to make them support crisis measurement of the company most effectively while keeping their turnover intention low.
The birth environment of planetary systems

Star and planet formation are inextricably linked. In the earliest phases of the collapse of a protostar, a disc forms around the young star and such discs are observed for the first several million years of a star’s life. It is within these circumstellar, or protoplanetary, discs that the first stages of planet formation occur. Recent observations from the Atacama large millimetre array (ALMA) suggest that planet formation may already be underway after only 1 Myr of a star’s life. However, stars do not form in isolation; they form from the collapse and fragmentation of giant molecular clouds several parsecs in size. This results in young stars forming in groups—often referred to as ‘clusters’. In these star-forming regions, the stellar density is much higher than the location of the Sun and other stars in the Galactic disc that host exoplanets. As such, the environment where stars form has the potential to influence the planet formation process. In star-forming regions, protoplanetary discs can be truncated or destroyed by interactions with passing stars, as well as photoevaporation from the radiation fields of very massive stars. Once formed, the planets themselves can have their orbits altered by dynamical encounters—either directly from passing stars or through secondary effects such as the Kozai–Lidov mechanism. In this contribution, I review the different processes that can affect planet formation and stability in star-forming regions. I discuss each process in light of the typical range of stellar densities observed for star-forming regions. I finish by discussing these effects in the context of theories for the birth environment of the Solar System.
A polarization study of the supernova remnant CTB 80

We present a radio polarization study of the supernova remnant CTB 80 based on images at 1420 MHz from the Canadian Galactic Plane Survey, at 2695 MHz from the Effelsberg survey of the Galactic plane and at 4800 MHz from the Sino-German λ6 cm polarization survey of the Galactic plane. We obtained a rotation measure (RM) map using polarization angles at 2695 MHz and 4800 MHz as the polarization percentages are similar at these two frequencies. RM exhibits a transition from positive values to negative values along one of the shells hosting the pulsar PSR B1951+32 and its pulsar wind nebula. The reason for the change in sign remains unclear. We identified a partial shell structure, which is bright in polarized intensity but weak in total intensity. This structure could be part of CTB 80 or part of a new supernova remnant unrelated to CTB 80.
Open-end nonparametric sequential change-point detection based on the retrospective CUSUM statistic

The aim of online monitoring is to issue an alarm as soon as there is significant evidence in the collected observations to suggest that the underlying data generating mechanism has changed. This work is concerned with open-end, nonparametric procedures that can be interpreted as statistical tests. The proposed monitoring schemes consist of computing the so-called retrospective CUSUM statistic (or minor variations thereof) after the arrival of each new observation. After proposing suitable threshold functions for the chosen detectors, the asymptotic validity of the procedures is investigated in the special case of monitoring for changes in the mean, both under the null hypothesis of stationarity and relevant alternatives. To carry out the sequential tests in practice, an approach based on an asymptotic regression model is used to estimate high quantiles of relevant limiting distributions. Monte Carlo experiments demonstrate the good finite-sample behavior of the proposed monitoring schemes and suggest that they are superior to existing competitors as long as changes do not occur at the very beginning of the monitoring. Extensions to statistics exhibiting an asymptotic mean-like behavior are briefly discussed. Finally, the application of the derived sequential change-point detection tests is succinctly illustrated on temperature anomaly data.
A multiple gene genealogy reveals the phylogenetic placement of Iodosphaeria tongrenensis sp nov in Iodosphaeriaceae (Xylariales)

During collections of Sordariomycetes in Guizhou Province, China, we collected Iodosphaeria tongrenensis sp. nov. . It is unique in the genus because of its ellipsoidal ascospores (18.5–22.5 × 6.5–8.5 μm) with a slimy sheath covering the whole spore, and J+, wedge-shaped, ascal apical apparatus. Iodosphaeria is a monotypic genus in Iodosphaeriaceae and phylogenetic analyses of combined LSU, ITS and SSU sequence data indicate that it is a distinct family in the order Xylariales.