Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
In vitro callus induction and shoot regeneration potentials in some snake melon accessions collected from different regions in Egypt

Several snake melon genotypes are grown in different locations in Egypt. However, the relationships and the degree of relatness among these genotypes are not well documented. This study was carried out with the aim to classify different Egyptian snake melon genotypes based on the in vitro callus induction and shoot regeneration potential. Nine snake melon accessions (acc.) were collected from different regions in Egypt, including acc.3 (Damietta), acc.7 (Bany Swief), acc.8 (Fayoum), acc.9 (Giza), acc.11 (Menia), acc.14 (Sohag), acc. 15 (Behaira-Wady Elnatron), acc. 17 (Ismailia) and acc. 18 (Behaira-Badr Center). Twenty seeds from each accession were sterilized and cultured in vitro on MS medium basal salt and vitamins for 4 weeks. Segments (4x4mm each) from cotyledon were used as explants and cultured on MS medium amended with 2.0 mg/L TDZ for callus induction. The formed callus was sub cultured onto MS medium amended with 3.0 mg/L BA+4ml Hyaluronic acid for shoot regeneration. Results indicated that the degree of callus formation was different among the different accessions. Based on callus growth potential measured as fresh weight, snake melon accessions could be ranked as: acc.9> acc.18> acc.3= acc.11> acc.17> acc.15> acc.8= acc.14> acc.7. Significant differences among the accessions were also observed for their shoot regeneration potential from callus. The highest number of shoots per explant was recorded in acc. 18 (ave.12.6 shoots), followed by acc.9, 11, and 7 which produced an average of 10.8, 10.4, and 9.8 shoots, respectively. Results suggested that snake melon genotypes with high callus induction had also high regeneration capacity. In addition, these accessions could have different genetic background, which might help in future breeding programs to improve plant and agronomic traits. The current in vitro callus induction and shoot regeneration technique in snake melon will also aid in future effort for germplasm preservation of accessions with unique characteristics.
The grapevine LysM receptor-like kinase VvLYK5-1 recognizes chitin oligomers through its association with VvLYK1-1

The establishment of defense reactions to protect plants against pathogens requires the recognition of invasion patterns (IPs), mainly detected by plasma membrane-bound pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Some IPs, also termed elicitors, are used in several biocontrol products that are gradually being developed to reduce the use of chemicals in agriculture. Chitin, the major component of fungal cell walls, as well as its deacetylated derivative, chitosan, are two elicitors known to activate plant defense responses. However, recognition of chitooligosaccharides (COS) in Vitis vinifera is still poorly understood, hampering the improvement and generalization of protection tools for this important crop. In contrast, COS perception in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana is well described and mainly relies on a tripartite complex formed by the cell surface lysin motif receptor-like kinases (LysM-RLKs) AtLYK1/CERK1, AtLYK4 and AtLYK5, the latter having the strongest affinity for COS. In grapevine, COS perception has for the moment only been demonstrated to rely on two PRRs VvLYK1-1 and VvLYK1-2. Here, we investigated additional players by overexpressing in Arabidopsis the two putative AtLYK5 orthologs from grapevine, VvLYK5-1 and VvLYK5-2. Expression of VvLYK5-1 in the atlyk4/5 double mutant background restored COS sensitivity, such as chitin-induced MAPK activation, defense gene expression, callose deposition and conferred non-host resistance to grapevine downy mildew (Erysiphe necator). Protein-protein interaction studies conducted in planta revealed a chitin oligomer-triggered interaction between VvLYK5-1 and VvLYK1-1. Interestingly, our results also indicate that VvLYK5-1 mediates the perception of chitin but not chitosan oligomers showing a part of its specificity.
Effects of enzyme supplementation on the replacement value of canola meal for soybean meal in broiler diets

A broiler growth study was conducted to investigate the replacement value of canola meal (CM) for soybean meal (SBM) in broiler diets with or without the addition of two commercial enzyme products. A total of 3600 broilers were used in this experiment. Four isoenergetic diets replicated 10 times with 90 birds each were fed ad libitum as starter (Day 0–21) and finisher (Day 21–37) crumbles. All diets included a high proportion of sorghum as the main cereal component, and soybean meal (20% and 24.5%) or canola meal (35% and 28.9%) were included as the sole protein concentrate. At Day 38 selected birds from each dietary treatment were commercially processed and carcass yield and weight of selected meat portions were measured. The inclusion of CM in place of SBM and the addition of enzyme to CM-based diets did not affect feed intake, growth, and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Mortality in birds fed the unsupplemented CM diet was significantly reduced compared with the mortality in birds fed the SBM control diet or the CM diets supplemented with enzymes. Birds fed the unsupplemented CM had significantly (P < 0.05) reduced eviscerated weight, breast meat, and thigh yield and a significantly (P < 0.05) reduced water-holding capacity of muscle tissue compared with the SBM control diet. The addition of Enzyme A to CM-based diets increased breast meat and the addition of Enzyme B significantly (P < 0.05) increased dress yield, breast meat, and Marylands (thigh and drumstick portions). Carcass yield and quality on this diet was comparable to the SBM diet.
Effect of scaling and root planing on the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13) in the gingival crevicular fluid of electronic cigarette users and non-smokers with moderate chronic periodontitis

Purpose The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the effect of scaling and root planing (SRP) on the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-4, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13) in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of electronic cigarette users and non-smokers with moderate chronic periodontitis (CP). Methods Electronic cigarette users and non-smokers with CP were included in the study. Full-mouth plaque and gingival indices, probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and marginal bone loss (MBL) were assessed. The GCF was collected, and its volume and levels of IL-4, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13 were assessed. These parameters were evaluated at baseline and 3 months after SRP. The sample size was estimated, and comparisons between groups were performed. P<0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. Results Thirty-six electronic cigarette users (47.7±5.8 years old) and 35 non-smokers (46.5±3.4 years old) with CP were included. At baseline, there were no differences in plaque index (PI), PD, CAL, MBL, and GCF IL-4, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13 between electronic cigarette users and non-smokers. At the 3-month follow-up, there were no significant differences in PI, gingival index (GI), PD, CAL, and MBL in electronic cigarette users compared to baseline, while there were significant reductions in PI, GI, and PD among non-smokers. At the 3-month follow-up, GCF IL-4, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13 levels were significantly elevated in both groups (P<0.05) compared to baseline. The increases in GCF IL-4, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13 levels were significantly higher in non-smokers (P<0.05) than in electronic cigarette users at the 3-month follow-up. Conclusions Levels of GCF IL-4, IL-9, IL-10, and IL-13 increased after SRP in electronic cigarette users and non-smokers with CP; however, the anti-inflammatory effect of SRP was more profound in non-smokers than in electronic cigarette users.
Some aspects of resistance to and tolerance of potato cyst nematodes in potato.

Potato cyst nematodes (PCN), Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida , are major pests of the potato. In this thesis, research on some aspects of resistance to and tolerance of PCN is presented. The distinction of virulence groups with a hierarchical clustering procedure is proposed as an alternative for the currently distinguished pathotypes. Resistance in potato cultivars should be expressed in a quantitative way, tested against PCN populations representative of virulence groups. A previously unknown major gene for resistance to some G. pallida populations was found, thought to be derived from S.tuberosum ssp. andigena CPC 1673. Several potato cultivars appeared to carry this gene, presumably due to linkage of this gene with a trait they have been selected for. Several genotypes with G. pallida resistance from S. vernei , as currently used in potato breeding, appeared to be highly intolerant to G. pallida . Differences in tolerance between G. pallida resistant genotypes in the field were associated with differences in biomass of infested plants in the greenhouse, relatively early in growth. In progenies of crosses, tolerance and resistance appeared not to be related. Selection for tolerance in a G. pallida resistance breeding programme is advised, in order to avoid the development of resistant, but highly intolerant potato cultivars. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the tolerance of the tested genotypes was associated with the induced rate of hatching and the capacity of root growth after infection.
TWO SOURCES OF ZEOLITE AS SUBSTITUTES OF NITROGEN FERTILIZER FOR WHEAT (Triticum aestivum) PRODUCTION IN TLAXCALA, MEXICO

Nitrogen is the main nutrient added to the soil for wheat production, but its application increases production costs. Urea is the most used nitrogen fertilizer (NF) in Mexico, however only 10 to 60 % is absorbed by crops. To improve this efficiency, the use of slow-release fertilizers has been promoted, although their cost is high compared with traditional nitrogen sources. One alternative to increase the efficiency of NF is the use of minerals such as zeolite. One type of zeolite is the â€œclinoptiloliteâ€, an aluminum-silicate mineral. The objective of the study was to evaluate two sources of clinoptilolite (Chinobampo and TehuacAin). In four locations, six treatments were established: 1) 100 % NF; 2) 20 % zeoilte + 80 % NF; 3) 40 % zeolite + 60 % NF; 4) 60 % zeolite + 40 % NF; 5) 80 % zeolite + 20 % NF; and 6) 100 % zeolite. In treatments 2, 4 and 6 the seeds were mycorrhized before sowing. On average, treatment 3 yielded 2.9 ton ha-1, followed by treatment 2 with 2.6 ton ha-1, which yielded 2.3 and 3.0 ton ha-1 with zeolite Chinobampo and TehuacAin, respectively.
Intracellular Radicals in Neutrophils Processing and Functional Implications

Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocyte in human blood and essential components of our defense against microbial pathogens. These cells can neutralize microbial pathogens by phagocytosis, which involves engulfment and degradation of microbes intracellularly, as well as by the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are structures released from neutrophils made up of DNA and proteins that capture microbes extracellularly. One characteristic of neutrophils is that they can produce massive amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon activation of a specialized enzyme system, the NADPH oxidase. The ROS can be produced at different cellular sites, inside the phagosome, intracellularly inside granules, and at the plasma membrane leading to the release of ROS extracellularly. Whereas ROS produced inside phagosomes are crucial for microbial killing, much less is known about intracellular ROS produced inside granules, which is therefore in focus in this thesis. Neutrophils contain multiple types of granules that are storage organelles for soluble proteins, receptors, and effector molecules. Part of the NADPH oxidase is found in granule membranes and upon activation, ROS can be produced inside granules where they may be processed by myeloperoxidase (MPO) to yield other types of ROS. In paper I, MPO-processing of intracellular ROS was shown to be dependent on phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity. However, PLA2 was not directly involved in the processing but rather indirectly by mediating the fusion of different granule types, which enables the ROS and MPO to meet inside the cell. It has previously been suggested that the autoinflammatory disorder SAPHO syndrome, characterized by neutrophil dermatosis and typically sterile inflammation of the bone, is associated with neutrophils lacking the production of intracellular ROS. In paper IV, four patients with SAPHO syndrome were investigated with respect to ROS production and other neutrophil functions. All patients, however, produced normal amounts of intracellular ROS demonstrating that decreased intracellular ROS production is not a general feature of SAPHO syndrome. In paper II and III, the role of intragranular ROS for the formation of NETs was studied. Paper II demonstrates that intragranular ROS are essential to drive active NET formation and that intracellular processing of these ROS by MPO is a critical step. Paper III shows that NETs are not only the result of an active process but can also be induced by alternative means, e.g., by cytotoxic peptides released from bacteria. Unlike the process described in the literature and in paper II, this type of NET formation was not dependent on ROS or MPO. In conclusion, the processing of intracellularly produced ROS in neutrophils has been characterized and both production and processing were found to be essential for active NET formation. Further, an alternative mechanism of NET formation was described that is independent of ROS production.
Integrated Effects of Poultry Manure and Chemical Fertilizer on Yield, Nutrient Balance and Economics of Wetland Rice Culture

Field trials were conducted for two years to evaluate the integrated effect of poultry manure (PM) and chemical fertilizers on yield, nutrient balance and economics of rice at BRRI, Gazipur (AEZ-28 and land type- High Land) during Boro 2009 to T. Aman 2010. Eight treatment combinations, where PM @ 1, 2, 3 t ha-1 with IPNS (Integrated plant nutrient system) based dose and PM @ 1, 2, 3 t ha-1 with 50% STB (soil test based) dose along with a control and 100% STB chemical fertilizer were tested. Immediate effects of manure and fertilizer were evaluated in Boro season and residual effects were observed in the following T. Aman season. Application of PM @ 2 t ha-1 with IPNS based chemical fertilizer or PM @ 3 t ha-1 with 50% STB dose gave higher grain yield in Boro season. Some residual effects in the succeeding T. Aman rice were observed where PM was used @ 3 t ha-1. The highest net return was obtained with 3 t PM ha-1 with 50% STB dose. A positive nutrient balance of phosphorus and sulfur were observed in PM and chemical fertilizer treated plots. Bangladesh Rice j. 2018, 22(2): 71-77
Italian red squirrels and introduced parakeets: victims or perpetrators?

This paper deals with the first records of interactions between Italian red squirrel ( Sciurus vulgaris italicus ) and introduced parakeets. We observed two nest predations exerted by red squirrels upon rose-ringed parakeet ( Psittacula krameri ) chicks in Latium, while an adult Barraband’s parakeet ( Polytelis swainsonii ) was responsible for the death of an adult squirrel in Southern Tuscany. To assess the extent of the impact of these alien birds on the conservation of the endemic squirrel populations, further research is needed. These observations highlight the complex interactions that may arise between alien and native species, supporting that active monitoring and management of introduced populations should be a priority. Download the complete issue.
A study of knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers on immunization of children in urban slums

Background and Objective: Vaccination is a cost-effective intervention to prevent major illness that contribute to child mortality in the country. Increase in parental knowledge about vaccination will lead to increase in vaccination rates of children. Urban slums constitute one of the high-risk areas of vaccine preventable diseases. The main objective of the study was to determine the mother’s knowledge towards childhood immunization and to assess the reasons for incomplete immunization. Material and Methods: A community based, cross-sectional study was conducted in the urban slums of Bhopal city, India. Out of the enlisted slums, 5 slums were chosen. House to house survey was done. After obtaining oral consent, information regarding knowledge, attitude and practices was collected by using a proforma. Results: A total of 300 children in the age group of 0 to 24 months were included in the study. 154 Children out of 300 (51.33%) were fully immunized, 67 (22.33%) were partially immunized and 79 (26.33%) were unimmunized. Majority of the mothers (83.6%) showed positive attitude towards getting their child. About 15.6%participants had the misconception of stopping the immunization if it caused side effects Majority 60% of mothers were unaware about the age-related vaccination. The main reason for partial and non-immunization was found to be lack of information poor infrastructure. Conclusion: Immunization coverage in the urban slums of Bhopal is still short compared to national standards. A lack of information and motivation among the parents is the main reason for this dismal scenario, that needs to be rectified at the earliest
Competition for water between inflorescences and leaves in cut flowering stems of Grevillea ‘Crimson Yul-lo’

Summary Grevillea cv. ‘Crimson Yul-lo’ has large bright red terminal inflorescences on leafy stems and has recognised commercial potential as a cut flower crop. A major limitation is its relatively short vase-life, often terminated by early wilting of the inflorescence despite apparently turgid leaves. An investigation of the water relations of cut Grevillea ‘Crimson Yul-lo’ stems revealed that the water potential of inflorescences on intact stems in vases was significantly higher (i.e., less negative) than that of leaves from day-0 to day-3 of vase-life. Thereafter, the water potential of inflorescences declined more rapidly than that of leaves, accompanied by visible wilting of the tepals and styles of individual florets. Removal of leaves from the stems reduced both water uptake and water loss, and delayed the onset of a negative water balance in the inflorescence. Bagging of entire stems, leaves only, or inflorescences only, with micro-perforated plastic film to reduce transpiration, reducing leaf number to reduce leaf area, or supplying abscisic acid to reduce leaf stomatal aperture, all aided relative fresh weight retention by stems and extended vase-life. Four or six leaves on a stem caused greater loss in inflorescence water content than zero or two leaves. Considered collectively, these findings show that competition for water between the inflorescence and the leaves in cut Grevillea ‘Crimson Yul-lo’ stems contributes to the onset of inflorescence wilting and their short vase-life.
Flavour aspects of pea and its protein preparations in relation to novel protein foods

This research is part of the multidisciplinary program, PROFETAS (PROtein Foods Environment Technology And Society), which aimed to feasibly shift from animal proteins to pea proteins for the development of Novel Protein Foods (NPFs) with desirable flavour. The aim of this research is to investigate the flavour aspects of peas and its protein fractions, as being potential ingredients for NPFs. To achieve this objective, the type and amount of flavour compounds from pea flour and pea protein preparations, as well as the stability and sensory characteristics of some of these compounds were investigated. The interactions of flavour compounds and pea protein fractions, as well as the effect of heating and presence of non-protein components on these interactions were also studied. With the results obtained, PROFETAS will be able to provide essential information for food industries and research institutes, to aid in the production of food with superior quality. Food manufacturers can better manipulate their ingredients and processing, optimising production conditions, which in turn lead to cost saving.
Influence of Head Teachers’ Instructional Supervisory Practices on Teacher Retention, And Gender on Their Supervisory Practices: A Study of Public Basic Schools in Swedru Circuit ‘A’, Agona West Municipality, Ghana

The study had two-fold purposes: to determine the relationship between the supervisory practices head teachers and teacher retention in the public basic schools in Swedru Circuit ‘A’, Agona West municipality of Central region, Ghana; and to find out whether the gender of the head teachers influence their supervisory styles. This was a quantitative research, underpinned by positivism. Specifically, a descriptive survey design was employed for the study. A structured questionnaire was distributed to 9 head teachers and 67 teachers, comprising 38 females and 29 males, but, in all, 61 of them responded to the instrument. Census frame was used to involve all the head teachers in the study, while the teachers were selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics such as t-test, one-way ANOVA and Multiple Regression. The study discovered that the head teachers' supervisory practices included lesson observation, checking teacher's record of work, provision of in-service training, monitoring punctuality and regularity, and orientation of new staff, but most of these did not enhance retention of teachers in the Circuit. Also, the study showed statistically significance difference between gender and supervisory practices with regard to lesson observation, provision of in-service training, and orientation of new staff. It alsowas established that the head teachers' gender was crucial in carrying out their supervisory roles and responsibilities, which suggests that attention should be directed to this variable. The researchers, therefore, recommended that Agona West Education Directorate should consider gender in the appointment of head teachers if it desires that head teachers should practice supervisory styles needed to promote teacher retention.
Questionable Relevance of γδ T Lymphocytes in Renal Cell Carcinoma1

Adoptive γδ T cell immunotherapy has moved briskly into clinical trials prompted by several small studies suggesting abundant accumulation of γδ T cells within renal cell carcinoma (RCC). In this study, we re-examined levels of γδ T cells within RCC tumors and correlated levels of these cells with pathologic features and outcome associated with this form of cancer. Tissues from 248 consecutive clear cell RCC tumors obtained from 2000 to 2003 were stained and quantified for total CD3+ and γδ T cells per mm2. Wilcoxon rank sum and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to evaluate associations between T cell amounts and prognostic factors (age, gender, tumor size, stage, grade, tumor necrosis). Cox models were used to assess associations with RCC-specific death. Median numbers of total CD3+ and γδ T cells were 281/mm2 (interquartile range (IQR): 149–536) and 2.6/mm2 (IQR: 1.3–4.6), respectively. The median percentage of CD3+ T cells that were γδ T cells was 1.0% (IQR: 0.4–1.9). This low percentage of intratumoral γδ T cells was diluted even further with rising CD3+ T cell infiltration. Percentages of γδ T cells were not associated with even one single clinicopathologic feature examined. Median follow-up for this study was 3.1 years (48 patients died of RCC) and Cox analysis failed to demonstrate that γδ T cells (hazard ratio = 1.02, p = 0.25) were predictive of RCC-specific death. γδ T cells are rare and not recruited nor expanded within RCC tumors. Percentages of γδ T cells fail to correlate with any prognostic features of RCC nor specific death. As such, the role of γδ T cells in RCC immunobiology remains questionable.