Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Study of nutritional characteristics, mineral nutrients and agro-biodiversity in black cumin ( Nigella sativa L.) genotypes from Pakistan

Nigella sativa (L.) a member of the family Ranunculaceae is being used for edible and medicinal purposes in several countries of the world. This study revealed the analysis of genetic diversity of thirty six (36) genotypes of N. sativa based on yield traits, nutritional characteristics, and mineral nutrients. Two genotypes PK - 020561 and PK - 020646 differed significantly from other 34 genotypes with respect to grain yield (P = 0.0007), biomass (P = 0.049), oil content (P = 0.001), nitrogen (P = 0.0117), calcium (P = 0.0164) and boron (P = 0.0004). These results indicated the scope of these traits for selection of genotypes. Eigen values were greater than 1 indicating the significance of principal component analysis. Five and six clusters were observed for nutritional characteristics and mineral nutrients respectively. Based on principal component analysis, yield traits contributed 86% of the variability pertained to nutritional characteristics, whereas four factors contributed 68% of the genotypes variability based on mineral nutrients. The genotype PK - 020646 produced the highest biomass, harvest index, grain yield, oil content, protein, moisture, fibre, N, Pb, Co and Mn, whereas PK - 020561 produced the highest Ca, Mg, Pb, Zn, Mn, Na and P contents. UPGMA cluster analysis based on nutritional characteristics revealed five distinct clusters with genotypes which were markedly different. Thus, all clusters were cluster 5 and cluster 1, dominating other clusters. Based on thirteen (13) mineral components, all genotypes formed six clusters, with clusters 4 and 5 having 11 and 10 genotypes. Thus, Euclidean distance among genetically distinct clusters supports different patterns of yield and mineral nutrients. The overall grouping of clusters corresponded with principal component analysis confirming the genetic variability among genotypes. These genotypes are suggested for their further application in the genetic improvement of N. sativa L, for their use as quality food to substitute Nigella cultivars currently being used. Key words : Biodiversity, black seed, cluster analyses, kalonji, physico-chemical traits, principal components’analysis.
Dynamics and Potential Production of White Sturgeon in the Unimpounded Lower Columbia River

Abstract The unimpounded lower Columbia River downstream from Bonneville Dam (LCR) supports the greatest abundance and density of white sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus reported in the species' range. The high productivity of the population resulted from growth that was as good as or better than reported for other populations, the highest mean relative weight reported for any white sturgeon population, and a relatively low median age (24 years) of first maturity for females (95% of females matured between 16 and 35 years of age). Estimated instantaneous natural mortality was 10%. During 1986–1990, the estimated instantaneous fishing mortality for age-12–17 fish averaged 36% in LCR fisheries. Over the same period, the average annual abundance estimate of LCR white sturgeon 54 cm fork length (FL) or longer was 895,500 fish, and the average density was 14.6 fish per ha. Population simulations, under the assumption of constant recruitment, predicted a maximum sustainable yield (MSY) of 3.0 kg/recruit at an 18.
Reevaluation of coleoid cephalopod relationships based on modified arms in the Jurassic coleoid Mastigophora

Mastigophora brevipinnis Owen, 1856, is a ‘fossil teuthid’ presently considered to be a member of the coleoid cephalopod Suborder Loligosepiina Jeletzky, which in turn has been placed by various authors in or near the Vampyromorpha Grimpe. Recent morphological and biochemical analyses indicate that vampyromorphs are more closely related to the Octopoda than to the Decapodiformes. Fossils of Mastigophora from the Oxford Clay (Jurassic: Callovian) show soft-tissue preservation and evidence of arm crown specialization. Some of these fossils have up to eight short, thick arms with circular sucker-like structures and filiform distal extensions, plus what appear to be the bases of two thinner ventrolateral arms. The latter lack proximal suckers and curve medially to insert into the arm crown, similar to the tentacles that are the modified ventrolateral arms of living squids and cuttlefishes. This suggests that the thinner structures were decapod-like tentacles. If Mastigophora had tentacles homologous with those of modern decapods, then it was a decapod, because this synapomorphy defines the Decapodiformes. This indication of decapod affinities for Mastigophora brings into question the relationships of the other ‘fossil teuthids’. The inferred relationship of the Loligosepiina, including Mastigophora, with the Vampyromorpha, based largely on similarities of gladius morphology with that of living Vampyroteuthis, may reflect shared plesiomorphic characters.
The development of a test of Dutch as a second language: the validity of self- assessment by inexperienced subjects

This article consists of a detailed comparison between a test of Dutch as a second language for use in language courses for adult learners, and a parallel version of that test in self-assessment format. No consistent significant relationship between performance on the two could be demonstrated; neither was it possible to show a significant tendency for ability to self-assess reliably to increase at high proficiency levels.
Effect of gamma irradiation on indica rice callus of landraces and modern varieties

Regenerated calli of two landrace (Lawi and Siam) and three modern rice varieties (MR219, MR232 and UKMRC9) were exposed 2 to 7 Gy of gamma rays to determine their effects on callus growth and plant regeneration capability. Both callus growth and regeneration capacity were found to be decreased with increasing levels of exposure to gamma rays. Plant regeneration capacity was found more sensitive to gamma rays than callus growth. However, local landrace varieties showed comparatively less sensitive to gamma radiation of these characters as compared to modern varieties. The doses 5 and 4 Gy of gamma radiation were found to be the 50% inhibition dose for callus growth and plant regeneration in Lawi and Siam, respectively; whereas, the 50% inhibition dose for MR219, MR232 and UKMRC9 was 3 Gy. These results indicate that sensitivity of gamma radiation on rice callus depend on genotype of a genus.
EFFECTS OF PACLOBUTRAZOL AND KNO3 OVER FLOWERING AND FRUIT QUALITY IN TWO CULTIVARS OF MANGO MANILA

SUMMARY Different doses of Paclobutrazol (PBZ) combined with KNO3 were evaluated in order to determine their effect on flowering and fruit quality on two mango clones. The experiment was carried out at the INIFAP’s Cotaxtla Experimental Station in Veracruz, Mexico. A 14-year old orchard of Manila Cotaxtla 1 and Manila Cotaxtla 2 clones planted in 8×8m plots without irrigation was used. The experimental design was of random blocks in split plots. The eight treatments applied were: a) 0.0, b) 0.5, c) 1.0, d) 1.5, e) 2.0g a.i. PBZ per meter of canopy diameter, all combined with the application of 2% KNO3, f) 4% KNO3 without PBZ, g) 1.5g. a.i. PBZ, without KNO3, and h) control with neither product added. PBZ was applied on the soil and KNO3 in two applications on the foliage. The variables considered were number of panicles, fruit weight, fruit weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA) and firmness. PBZ and KNO3 application induced a larger number of advanced panicles in relation to the control, with higher values observed as PBZ dose increased. However, in total flowering there was no significant difference between treatments (p<0.05). PBZ did not have negative effects in the quality of fruit of neither cultivar. The treatments with higher doses of PBZ had higher content of TSS, less TA, less firmness and greater weight loss. Both culti vars were different in TA of the ripe fruits.
Latitudinal gradients in benthic community composition in Western Atlantic estuaries

AimThe community composition of benthic macroinvertebrates from 295 estuarine sites was examined in order to either confirm or challenge established boundaries of zoogeographical provinces. We also investigated the postulate that, while local distributions were determined by natural habitat characteristics such as salinity, sediment type and depth, distributions on a large geographical scale would be correlated with temperature.
New Specimens of ‘Crocodylus’ Pigotti (Crocodylidae) from Rusinga Island, Kenya, and Generic Reallocation of the Species

ABSTRACT ‘Crocodylus’ pigotti is a relatively small crocodylid from the Miocene of Rusinga Island in Lake Victoria, Kenya. Known only from one relatively complete skull and limited, fragmentary, referred material, ‘Crocodylus‘ pigotti lacks a detailed description. Moreover, recent analyses have shown ‘Crocodylus’ pigotti to be an osteolaemine crocodylid, more closely related to the extant dwarf crocodiles (Osteolaemus) than to true Crocodylus. Here, we describe numerous new remains of ‘Crocodylus’ pigotti recovered from localities within the Fossil Bed Member of the Hiwegi Formation at Kaswanga Point, Rusinga Island. We recovered parts of several individuals and report on previously unknown parts of the anatomy, provide an updated phylogenetic analysis, and reallocate the species ‘Crocodylus’ pigotti to a new genus, Brochuchus. SUPPLEMENTAL DATA—Supplemental materials are available for this article for free at www.tandfonline. com/UJVP
Variable and Asymmetric Introgression in a Hybrid Zone in the Toads, Bufo americanus and Bufo fowleri

Abstract The structure and dynamic history of a mosaic hybrid zone are investigated using an analysis of morphometric variation to determine the extent of interbreeding between the species involved in different regions. The hybrid zone between the toads Bufo americanus and Bufo fowleri is geographically widespread. Natural hybrids occur in Ontario at Long Point but not along the nearby Niagara peninsula although the species are sympatric in both places. Discriminant analysis of variation in 27 morphological characters from 286 preserved museum specimens of male toads and putative hybrids was compared with previous allozyme genetic characterization of the same specimens. Reference samples from allopatric populations were used for comparison. Bufo americanus from Long Point were significantly different from other samples of the same species, demonstrating introgression in the direction of sympatric B. fowleri. Long-term hybridization in this region has been confined to Long Point despite sympatry elsewhere. Thus, the hybrid zone between these toads does not conform to gradient or “tension zone” models. Rather, it is a mosaic in that hybrids appear at some times and in some places but not in others and it conforms to the concept of a “localized sympatric” hybrid zone.
Effect of Different Botanical Pesticides Against Thrips tabaci on Garlic Crop

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effi cacy of certain biopesticides against Thrips tabaci on garlic during 2009/10 to 2010/11. Among the biopesticides, kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) decoction was more effective against thrips (3.73–5.01 thrips per leaf) and the effi cacy was similar to 0.03% dimethoate followed by lantana (Lantana camara), neem (Azadirachta indica), sickle senna (Cassia tora), sadaphuli (Catharanthus roseus), karanj (Pongamia pinnata), and arka (Calotropis gigantea). All the treatments signifi cantly increased the yield of garlic over control but the highest yields were obtained in dimethoate (98.07 q ha -1 ) treatment and kalmegh decoction spray (98.04 q ha -1 ). The yield in control plot was 89.99 q ha -1 . Botanical pesticides enhanced the shelf life by three weeks in comparison to control and dimethoate (0.03%) treated plots.
The role of hindsight in transcriptional regulation during Drosophila melanogaster development

Declaration I hereby declare that I am the sole author of this thesis. This is a true copy of the thesis, including any required final revisions, as accepted by my examiners. I understand that my thesis may be made electronically available to the public. Abstract In Drosophila melanogaster, hindsight (hnt) encodes a putative Zinc-finger transcription factor that is expressed in a highly complex pattern during development. Despite an apparent wealth of information regarding the dynamic expression pattern of hnt, the cellular response and defined target genes of Hnt remain largely unknown. Hnt is important in various developmental processes, and recent work suggests that Hnt function is downstream of the Notch (N) signaling pathway. Interestingly, the mammalian homolog of hnt is RAS-Responsive Element Binding Protein 1 (RREB1), which functions by binding to the RAS-responsive elements of the target gene promoters. Ras is a key downstream effector of the highly conserved Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway, yet the relationship between Hnt and EGFR signaling has not been extensively studied using the powerful approach of Drosophila genetics. This study involved a detailed examination of hnt mutant phenotypes and phenotypes associated with Hnt overexpression. Overall, this work revealed striking similarities between egfr and hnt mutant embryos. In particular, hnt mutant embryos were found to resemble egfr mutant embryos in their failure to properly develop peripheral nervous system (PNS) structures known as chordotonal organs and in their inability to recruit neighbouring secretory oenocytes. In addition, Hnt overexpression was found to induce ectopic DPax2 expression in an EGFR-dependent manner within the embryo. This relationship was also examined in a second developmental context, the pupal retinal neuroepithelium. Overall, the data presented suggests that Hnt's primary function in the development of the PNS is associated with potentiating EGFR signaling.
Physiological and morphological regeneration of the sectioned spinal cord in adult teleosts

The problem of regenerative capacity of the spinal cord after section is not new. The majority of the experiments have been performed upon mammals and Amphibia, in fact, on a great variety of these animals. The points which have been so far discussed are whether or not the cord after section can be reestablished to show functional continuity. The results of those investigations are conflicting. The conclusions drawn may be stated as follows: 1) morphological reunion of the cut cord by regenerative process is possible following functional restoration ; 2) no indication of functional and anatomical regeneration is noted, although there may occur outgrowth of the nerve fibers in the cut ends where degeneration ensues within a short time (Cajal, '28). In the line of such studies only a few investigators have worked upon adult teleosts. No general agreement exists concerning the regenerative capacity of the severed cord even in young and embryonic teleosts. Koppbnyi and Weiss ( '22) made a complete section of the vertebrae and cord in the high thoracic region of the adult goldfish (Carassius vulgaris),
Book Review: Ethnicity in the Sunbelt: Mexican Americans in Houston

bald statements about “national character” or “immutable Confucian culture,” which McKeown rejects. His presentation of this alternate perspective on culture and identity is probably too brief and underdeveloped to satisfy many social scientists, but McKeown, a historian, has a story to tell and quickly plunges into it. Interestingly, given his earlier statements, it is not a truly global story, but a set of three parallel case studies. These studies are, however, illuminating and often fascinating, and McKeown is at his best in telling the local story. In the chapters on Peru, Chicago and Hawaii, the reader meets gods and ghosts, encounters betrayals and double dealing, and is confronted by labor riots and vice lords. McKeown’s prose is sometimes difficult but his stories take the reader into an alwaysinteresting world of labor struggle, of opportunity and prejudice, and of continuing cultural change. These stories will be of most interest to scholars of the Chinese experience but they carry importance for anyone interested in global migrant flows. Of particular interest is McKeown’s discussion of ethnicization, in which local pressures of both the sending and the receiving community combine with national forces and global demands to cause immigrants to both retain, and substantially revise, their ethnic identity. The book represents an important comparative analysis of the Chinese migrant experience, and a step forward toward a more global perspective on migrant networks and resulting cultural change.
LOGIC IN EARLY CHILD LANGUAGE *

This paper addresses one central aspect of the development of negation in early child language: the emergence of uses of negatives such as “no” and “not” for the purpose of logical denial. Insomuch as this concern touches on the use of negation for logical purposes, I will develop several issues concerning the origins of rudimentary logical competence as reflected in children’s speech. Logic is traditionally confined to distinguishing correct from incorrect arguments, and a great deal of psychological research has focused on the development of logical thinking as it involves such skills. ’* The proposition is a central component of such arguments, and propositions constitute the premises and conclusion of arguments. Such propositions, unlike arguments themselves, are considered to be true or false rather than valid or invalid. Very little attention has been paid to the origins of the child’s conception of the truth and falsity of propositions, yet the grasp of this binary distinction is a fundamental touchstone of reasoning and language cognition. The experimental study to be described provides a detailed investigation of children’s conceptions of the truth-values of sentences expressing simple propositions; the children studied ranged in age from 1 Yz to 3 years. What would such a study tell us? First, it would provide insights into the origins of logical abilities in early language and reveal how the child conceives of the language she uses. Since this knowledge of language incorporates features specific to language, such as truth-conditions, it would further our understanding on metalinguistic development. Negation is the focus of such an inquiry into the origins of logic and knowledge of language because it is basic to all forms of logic since truth and falsity are related by the logical operation of negation. If a sentence p is true, then its negative, -p, is false, and vice versa. And the ability to logically negate is at the heart of our conceptualizations of the physical and social worlds, laying a necessary foundation for hypotheses and science by enabling us to posit what is not the case.3‘ The development of logical negation, although not traditionally construed
'Teacher talk' with children with language disorders: four case studies I

In part I of this paper the general characteristics of 'teacher talk' and that of four language unit teachers are examined, and the effect of different move types on the degree of spontaneous speech exhibited by their pupils is shown. Qualitative differences in overall style of interaction among the four teachers were found which appeared to reflect differences in pedagogic goals and individual beliefs regarding the importance of conversation rather than the degree of control they exerted over subsequent pupil moves through their use of different move types including repair. The implications of the discrepancy found in some cases between what the four teachers reported in a question naire to be important aims and objectives and what took place in practice are also considered.
Gelatinous zooplankton biomass in the global oceans: geographic variation and environmental drivers

Aim: Scientific debate regarding the future trends, and subsequent ecological, biogeochemical and societal impacts, of gelatinous zooplankton (GZ) in a changing ocean is hampered by lack of a global baseline and an understanding of the causes of biogeographic patterns. We address this by using a new global database of GZ records to test hypotheses relating to environmental drivers of biogeographic variation in the multidecadal baseline of epipelagic GZ biomass in the world's oceans. Location: Global oceans. Methods: Over 476,000 global GZ data and metadata items were assembled from a variety of published and unpublished sources. From this, a total of 91,765 quantitative abundance data items from 1934 to 2011 were converted to carbon biomass using published biometric equations and species-specific average sizes. Total GZ, Cnidaria, Ctenophora and Chordata (Thaliacea) biomass was mapped into 5° grid cells and environmental drivers of geographic variation were tested using spatial linear models. Results: We present JeDI (the Jellyfish Database Initiative), a publically accessible database available at http://jedi.nceas. ucsb.edu. We show that: (1) GZ are present throughout the world's oceans; (2) the global geometric mean and standard deviation of total gelatinous biomass is 0.53 ± 16.16 mg C m−3, corresponding to a global biomass of 38.3 Tg C in the mixed layer of the ocean; (3) biomass of all gelatinous phyla is greatest in the subtropical and boreal Northern Hemisphere; and (4) within the North Atlantic, dissolved oxygen, apparent oxygen utilization and sea surface temperature are the principal drivers of biomass distribution. Main conclusions: JeDI is a unique global dataset of GZ taxa which will provide a benchmark against which future observations can be compared and shifting baselines assessed. The presence of GZ throughout the world's oceans and across the complete global spectrum of environmental variables indicates that evolution has delivered a range of species able to adapt to all available ecological niches.
Root to shoot relationships in Mediterranean woody plants from Central Portugal

Aiming at studying various root-shoot biometric relationships in Mediterranean woody plants, a set of 40 individuals from 18 species was integrally excavated in two study regions in Central Portugal. Plants were assigned to two groups, seeders and resprouters, according to both their regenerative characteristics and developmental stage. Plants were characterised in terms of total root biomass, total shoot biomass, base stem diameter, shoot height, shoot width, maximum rooting depth, root system width, root length and mean root diameter. A correlation matrix has shown that root biomass was well correlated with shoot biomass (r =0 .92) and shoot height (r =0 .90) and that all root-shoot relationships were statistically significant. Root-shoot ratio ranged from 3.7 in Arbutus unedo to 0.1 in Cytisus multiflorus . R esprouters had significantly higher root-shoot ratio (1.1 ± 0.2) than seeders (0.5 ± 0.1) and seeders showed a decrease of R/S along developmental stages. The distributions of root and shoot biomass along the plant’s vertical axis were assessed. A two parameter cumulative model was fitted to the data in order to parameterise the distribution curves. Distributions were compared in terms of a model-derived index, indicating the depth/height of 50% of the shoot biomass (ds50 )a nd the root biomass (dr50). Tests have shown that ds50 was statistically higher than dr50 and that the ds50 of resprouters was statistically lower than the respective value for the seeders. Discussion is focused on the different characteristics of the root and the shoot of mediterranean plants and the differences existing in terms of regenerative strategies.