Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Hunting, age structure, and horn size distribution in bighorn sheep

Trophy hunting, the selective removal of animals for human recreation, can contribute to conservation when appropriately managed. Yet, little is known about how harvest rates or different definitions of trophy affect age structure and trophy size in harvested animals and in survivors because no controlled studies exist. To investigate the impacts of different management regimes, we developed an individual-based model for bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis), based on empirical data on survival from a protected population and data on horn growth from 2 populations that differed in their growth rates. One population showed slow horn growth and the other population fast horn growth. We subjected these model populations to varying harvest rates and 2 different hunting regulations: 4/5 curl and full-curl definitions of a trophy male. We found that the effect of hunting regulations depends on horn growth rate. In populations with fast horn growth, the effects of trophy hunting on male age structure and horn size were greater and the effect of a change in the definition of legal male smaller than in populations with slow growth rates. High harvest rates led to a younger age structure and smaller horn size. Both effects were weakened by a more restrictive definition of trophy male. As harvest rates increased past 40% of legal males, the number of males harvested increased only marginally because an increasing proportion of the harvested males included those that had just become legal. Although our simulation focused on bighorn sheep, the link between horn growth rate and harvest effects may be applicable for any size-selective harvest regime. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Proboscis monkeys of Borneo

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Comparative suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activation with LPS-induced inflammation by blueberry extracts (Vaccinium spp.)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammation effects of blueberry extracts through NLRP3 inflammasome. The anti-inflammation activities of blueberry extracts were detected using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) activated the mononuclear macrophage (RAW264.7), and then detected the gene expression levels of NLRP3, Caspase-1, apoptosis-associated specked-like protein (ASC) and inflammatory factor including IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and iNOS. Blueberry extracts could significantly inhibit the gene expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and iNOS, but the inhibitions were showed differently among the varieties of Blomidom (BD), North Country (NC) and JK-M7 (JK). The protein expressions of NLRP3 and Caspase-1 in the blueberry treated groups were significantly lower than the LPS treated group. Quercetin significantly inhibited LPS-induced ROS and inhibited the mRNA expression and protein levels of NLRP3 and Caspase-1 in RAW264.7 cells.
Prediction Equation of Body Weight of Amazonian Manatee (Trichechus inunguis) Calves in Captivity Using Biometry

The objective of the study was to determine a prediction equation of body weight of Amazonian manatee calves in captivity using their biometry. It was conducted out with 7 calves (4 males and 3 females) of approximately 8 months of age and average body weight of 29.94 ± 0.055 kg, arranged in pools of sufficient size. Biometry and weighing were performed periodically, with the following measurements: body weight (BW), total curved length (TCL), total length (TL), circumference (CIR), fin width (FW), tail width (TW) and peduncle (PED). Data were subjected to Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression, using the statistical software IBM SPSS 24.0. The results showed a significant correlation (P R2 = 0.855, R2aj = 0.852). In addition, three linear multiple regression equations of BW were calculated using the predictor variables previously analyzed by Person correlation analysis. The equation that used all biometric measurements (TCL, TL, FW, TW, CIR and PED) had the highest coefficient of determination and the lowest estimation error to predict BW. In conclusion, the biometric measurements of TCL, TL, FW, TW, CIR and PED showed a high correlation with the BW and can be used as predictive variables of BW of manatee calves, as they are easy to be measured.
Association of MMP-9 promoter polymorphism and breast cancer among Iranian patients

Background and aims: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women population. This cancer is influenced by environmental and genetic factors. MMP-9, a member of MMPs family, is located on 20 q11.2- q13.1 and encodes Gelatinase B, a 92 KDa protein which is able to degrade collagen IV, matrix proteoglycan core and elastin. Over expression of MMP-9 has been shown in some cancers. MMP-9 is involved in the metastasis and cancerous cells migration. MMP-9 promoter polymorphism (-1562 C>T) is a candidate for cancer susceptibility. It is likely that T allele impedes recruitment of repressor proteins and causes gene over expression in T allele carriers. In the present case-control study we investigate whether MMP-9 promoter polymorphism (-1562C>T) is associated with breast cancer. Methods: A total of 216 Azeri women including 104 patients and 112 healthy women were enrolled in the study. Blood sampling was done after taking a written consent. Genomic DNA was extracted and its purity was determined on 1% agarose gel. Then the given polymorphism was determined by PCR- RFLP method using SphI. Results: The results showed that T allele and CT genotype are more frequent in the patients as compared to the control group, but there are not significant differences between two groups (P=0.1). Conclusion: It is suggested that MMP-9 polymorphism (-1562C>T) is not associated with the breast cancer occurrence in our population. However, further studies in larger populations including other genetic and environmental factors are required to achieve conclusion.
Epigenetic regulation of the circadian gene Per1 in the hippocampus mediates age-related changes in memory and synaptic plasticity

Aging is accompanied by impairments in both circadian rhythmicity and long-term memory. Although it is clear that memory performance is affected by circadian cycling, it is unknown whether age-related disruption of the circadian clock causes impaired hippocampal memory. Here, we show that the repressive histone deacetylase HDAC3 restricts long-term memory, synaptic plasticity, and learning-induced expression of the circadian gene Per1 in the aging hippocampus without affecting rhythmic circadian activity patterns. We also demonstrate that hippocampal Per1 is critical for long-term memory formation. Together, our data challenge the traditional idea that alterations in the core circadian clock drive circadian-related changes in memory formation and instead argue for a more autonomous role for circadian clock gene function in hippocampal cells to gate the likelihood of long-term memory formation.
Pollinators exert positive selection on flower size on urban, but not on rural Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius L. Link)

Aims Adaptive evolution of invasive species is both particularly exciting for the evolutionary biologist and worrisome for those interested in controlling or halting spread. Invasive species often have a distinct timeline and well‐recorded population expansion. As invaders encounter new environments, they undergo rapid adaptive evolution. Our aim in this study was to measure variation of floral size in the invasive shrub Cytisus scoparius (Scotch broom) and measure natural selection by pollinators on that trait. Past research has found that this invasive plant is pollinator limited in Washington State and that declines in pollinator populations can contribute to local extinction in another invaded range (New Zealand). This plant is pollinated by both native and introduced species of bees, representing a broad range of pollinator sizes. Cytisus scoparius has a flower structure that is highly conducive to studies on pollinator choice, even in the absence of direct pollinator observations. Methods We surveyed urban and rural sites in and around the city of Olympia in Washington State. Measuring banner width, we were able to show that flower size varies substantially between plants but minimally within plants. By measuring the proportion of flowers that were ‘tripped’, we could determine pollinator visitation rates and thus determine the level of selection due to pollinator choice alone. Important Findings We found that C. scoparius is under natural selection by pollinators for increased flower size. However, such positive natural selection was only seen in urban populations although it was consistent across two flowering seasons. Rural populations of Scotch broom do not appear to be under selection on flower size. The natural selection by pollinators on broom flowers could result in adaptive evolution into a new pollination niche by an invading species. A higher level of variation in broom flowers seen here than seen in previous works in native regions suggests that C. scoparius may be highly diverse and primed for adaptive evolution.
Neither Phoebe nor Cinnamomum – the tetrasporangiate species of Aiouea (Lauraceae)

Cinnamomum is among the largest genera of the Lauraceae, including species from tropical to temperate Asia and from tropical to subtropical America. However, previous studies indicated that Cinnamomum might not be monophyletic in its current circumscription. We therefore re-investigated the genus and possible relatives with an increased taxon sample, particularly of the Neotropical species. Our results, based on sequences of the nuclear ITS region and the chloroplast spacers psbA-trnH and trnG-trnS, show that the Neotropical Cinnamomum species indeed do not form a monophyletic group with the Paleotropical species. Instead, the American species form a clade in which most species of the Neotropical genus Aiouea are nested within several subclades. According to the ITS data the Aiouea/Cinnamomum clade is sister to the likewise predominantly Neotropical Ocotea complex, rather than the two Paleotropical Cinnamomum clades. Therefore, Cinnamomum cannot be upheld in its current circumscription. As the type C. verum, is from Asia, the Neotropical species need to be placed in a different genus. We decided to transfer them to Aiouea here, because this is the oldest generic name in the Aiouea/Cinnamomum clade, and the only character separating Aiouea from Neotropical Cinnamomum is the number of pollen sacs per anther (di-vs. tetrasporangiate), a feature that is known to be variable within several other genera as well. This transfer requires 42 new combinations and two nomina nova. In addition, six species described in the unpublished Ph.D. thesis of one of the authors (FLH) are validated in Aiouea here, and the only species of the genus Mocinnodaphne is transferred to Aiouea as well.
Nesting ecology and floral resource of Xylocopa augusti Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau (Hymenoptera, Apidae) in Argentina

A total of 33 nests of Xylocopa augusti was studied during two consecutive seasons. Nesting behaviour and floral resources used by the large carpenter bee X. augusti Lepeletier de Saint Fargeau were studied during the brood production season in an urban area in Argentina. Biological information about nesting aspects inside and outside the nest was considered, paying particular attention to year‐long activity, foraging flights throughout the day for nectar and pollen collection, nectar dehydration, oviposition, and pollen preference. In the study area, X. augusti shows an univoltine life cycle, with a peak of nesting between October and December, which coincides with the greatest blooming period of the surrounding flora. From 36 analyzed larval provision samples, 18 pollen types were identified, most of them belonging to ornamental trees or shrubs. Pollen from Eucalyptus‐Myrceugenia glaucescens (Cambess.) D. Legrand and Kausel (Myrtaceae), Solanum sp. ‐Cyphomandra betacea (Cav.) Sendtn. (Solanaceae) and Erythrina crista‐galli L. (Fabaceae) was dominant. The ability to obtain pollen from poricidal anthers such as those of Solanum indicate the potential of X. augusti to be an excellent managed pollinator and a good candidate for pollinating Solanaceae, such as Solanum lycopersicum ‘tomato’ and Solanum melongena ‘eggplant’, which are economically important crops in this region.
Distribution patterns and population structure of the blue shark (Prionace glauca) in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans

The blue shark (Prionace glauca) is the most frequently captured shark in pelagic oceanic fisheries, especially pelagic longlines targeting swordfish and/or tunas. As part of cooperative scientific efforts for fisheries and biological data collection, information from fishery observers, scientific projects and surveys, and from recreational fisheries from several nations in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans was compiled. Data sets included information on location, size and sex, in a total of 478,220 blue shark records collected between 1966 and 2014. Sizes ranged from 36 to 394 cm fork length. Considerable variability was observed in the size distribution by region and season in both oceans. Larger blue sharks tend to occur in equatorial and tropical regions, and smaller specimens in higher latitudes in temperate waters. Differences in sex ratios were also detected spatially and seasonally. Nursery areas in the Atlantic seem to occur in the temperate south-east off South Africa and Namibia, in the south-west off southern Brazil and Uruguay, and in the north-east off the Iberian Peninsula and the Azores. Parturition may occur in the tropical north-east off West Africa. In the Indian Ocean, nursery areas also seem to occur in temperate waters, especially in the south-west Indian Ocean off South Africa, and in the south-east off south-western Australia. The distributional patterns presented in this study provide a better understanding of how blue sharks segregate by size and sex, spatially and temporally, and improve the scientific advice to help adopt more informed and efficient management and conservation measures for this cosmopolitan species.
The effects of hyperthermia and ionizing radiation on chicken erythrocytes: A possible model for terminally differentiated tissues

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Detection and Molecular Characterization of Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia coli and Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli from Piglets in Mizoram, India

A total of 100 fecal samples from less than 3 month old piglets with (n=60) or without (n=40) diarrhoea were collected and processed for isolation of Escherichia coli and screened for the presence of E. coli. A total of 254 E. coli isolates obtained were subjected to multiplex polymerase chain reaction (m-PCR) based screening of stx 1 , stx 2 , eaeA and hlyA genes. Out of 254 isolates, presence of at least one virulence gene were detected in 51 (20.08%) isolates of which 30 (11.81%) and 21 (8.26%) isolates were identified as shiga toxin producing (STEC) and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), respectively. The antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of the STEC and EPEC isolates obtained in the present study revealed prevalence of high level of resistance against bacitracin, methicillin, novobiocin, lomefloxacin, kanamycin, amikacin, ciprofloxacin and spectinomycin.
Evolution pathways of employees' work on dairy farms according to task content, specialization, and autonomy

Evolution of employees working on dairy farms is related to the increase in farm size and the decrease in the size of family workforce. Thus, maintaining employees on dairy farms is a major problem for dairy farmers. We hypothesize that maintaining employees is related to their evolution pathways of work according to the tasks assigned, the level of versatility vs. specialization and the level of autonomy. Our aim was to describe different pathways for employees according to these three dimensions of work. Eight farmers and 14 permanent employees on eight French dairy farms were interviewed individually. Eight variables were identified to describe the evolution of tasks assigned to employees, the trend toward versatility vs . specialization, and the evolution of autonomy. Five evolution pathways of employees' work were identified. The longer-term goal is to discuss these results with farmers, employees and agricultural advisors to validate the results and assess their usefulness in a reflexive process concerning employees' career on farm.
Case report: Late in-stent thrombosis in a patient with vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia after stent-assisted coil embolization due to the discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy

Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is a rare type of cerebrovascular disorder with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Due to the distinct pathological characteristics that fragmented internal elastic lamina and multiple dissections, VBD is difficult to treat and cured. Stent-assisted coil embolization is one of the main treatment modalities for such lesions. However, the duration of healing remained questionable, and there were no effective measures for evaluating endothelial coverage. Before complete endothelial coverage, the discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy may lead to fatal in-stent thrombosis; however, continued antiplatelet therapy could also result in bleeding complications. Thus, we present an autopsy case of late in-stent thrombosis due to the discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy and systematically review the literature to provide a reference for endovascular treatment and antiplatelet regimen of VBD.
Quantitative evolutionary patterns in bipartite networks: Vicariance, phylogenetic tracking or diffuse co‐evolution?

Many pairwise interactions in ecological communities are thought to be structured by co‐evolution, a process difficult to study on a community level. Traditional methods can reveal correlated phylogenies between interacting organisms, suggesting a co‐evolutionary association. However, several processes could lead to cophylogeny, including (1) vicariance, (2) phylogenetic tracking and (3) co‐evolution. We present a framework to investigate diffuse co‐evolution between groups of interacting taxa. Our methodology incorporates two complementary statistical methods to test for evolutionary signals. First, we test for correlated taxonomies between interacting species, and then we test for an association between the pattern of interactions and taxonomy of interacting species. We use these methods to clearly distinguish between three possible explanations of cophylogenies, when present. Our methodology is designed to explore diffuse evolutionary signals among many interacting taxa: it is robust to polytomies and generalization and can use taxonomic trees in place of phylogenies. Thus, we use taxonomic distances to identify groups of associated taxa, as opposed to specific co‐evolutionary relationships. In a case study, we find significant evidence for phylogenetic tracking, vicariance and asymmetry. Generally, our method can be applied whenever relevant taxonomy is well resolved and includes sufficient variation at multiple taxonomic ranks between two groups of interacting taxa. This adaptable method can incorporate many types of data on species traits or behaviours, such as phylogenetic relatedness, pollination efficacy, interaction strengths and visitation rates. The analysis we provide here may be of use to a broad range of ecologists interested in evaluating diffuse evolutionary patterns in groups of interacting species.
Migration of a Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus calidus from Saudi Arabia to Cape Town as revealed by satellite telemetry

In boreal autumn 1995, we tracked a migrating adult Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus calidus from the border of Saudi Arabia and Yemen to near Cape Town, South Africa, a distance of 6 346 km. While on migration it covered 288 km d−1, on average. During its migration in Africa it migrated faster than any other Peregrine tracked so far using satellite telemetry. Falco p. calidus is an uncommon, but regular, migrant to southern Africa, where it overlaps with the resident F. p. minor, but no other bird has been tracked so far south.
Selection of latrine sites by Himalayan musk deer (Moschus leucogaster) in Neshyang Valley, Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal

ABSTRACT Musk deer is threatened by poaching for musk pod and habitat fragmentation. The species is endangered within its distribution range including Nepal, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Mongolia, China, Korea and Russia. In Nepal, the deer is confined to protected areas throughout the Himalaya. It is a solitary and shy forest dweller with a crepuscular activity pattern. It prefers and repeatedly uses one or more specific defecation sites. Such behaviour is believed to function in chemical communication among individuals. This study was conducted in Neshyang valley in the Annapurna Conservation Area, and aims to evaluate how musk deer selects the latrine site in its habitat taking into account both biotic and abiotic factors. In order to achieve this aim, we laid out a total of 23 transects of 500 m length throughout the study area. Within each transect, 20 m × 20 m nested structured quadrats were located at an interval of 100 m. We found that musk deer preferred to use latrine sites in fir forest while they avoid both blue pine forest and open areas. Furthermore, distance from water sources and mixed forests have a crucial role in selecting latrine sites by musk deer.