Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Possible effects of climate change on potato crops in Estonia

The main objective of this research is to generate and analyse values of meteorologically possible yields (MPY, maximum yield achievable under given meteorological conditions) of potato for the middle and the end of the 21st century, at three Estonian locations. An early and a late potato varieties are analysed as examples. Climate change is evaluated under four different emission scenarios by 18 different GCMs; resultant changes are introduced into a dynamical potato growth model POMOD. The climate-driven changes without considering the effect of CO 2 concentration change are determined. A negative impact of climate warming on early potato growth in Estonia is confirmed. Moderate climate change scenarios will have a positive influence on growth of the late potato variety, whereas stronger changes will cause the decline of agrometeorological resources. A more positive or less negative effect of climate change is detected for northern Estonia.
Lateral Mobility of Integrin αIIbβ3 (Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa) in the Plasma Membrane of a Human Megakaryocyte

Summary The migration of integrins to sites of cell-cell and cell-matrix contact is thought to be important for adhesion strengthening. We studied the lateral diffusion of integrin αIIbβ3 (glycoprotein Ilb/IIIa) in the plasma membrane of a cultured human megakaryocyte by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching of FITC-labelled monovalent Fab fragments directed against the P3 subunit. The diffusion of P3 on the unstimulated megakaryocyte showed a lateral diffusion coefficient (D) of 0.37 X10'9 cm2/s and a mobile fraction of about 50%. Stimulation with ADP (20 μM) or α-thrombin (10 U/ml) at 22° C induced transient decreases in both parameters reducing D to 0.21 X 10‘9 cm2/s and the mobile fraction to about 25%. The fall in D was observed within 1 min after stimulation but the fall in mobile fraction showed a lag phase of 5 min. The lag phase was absent in the presence of Calpain I inhibitor, whereas cytochalasin D completely abolished the decrease in mobile fraction. The data are compatible with the concept that cell activation induces anchorage of 50% of the mobile αIIbβ3 (25% of the whole population of receptor) to the cytoplasmic actin filaments, although, as discussed, other rationals are not ruled out.
Détermination de la teneur en lipides des filets de truite arc-en-ciel Oncorhynchus mykiss par le Torry Fish Fat Meter®

Le mode d'emploi du Torry Fish Fat Meter® pour estimer la teneur en lipides des filets de truites arc-en-ciel Oncorhynchus mykiss de 1,5 a 3 kg a ete precise. Ce travail met en evidence la necessite d'essuyer soigneusement la peau des poissons avant la mesure pour eliminer le mucus. Deux gradients d'adiposite antero-posterieure et dorso-ventral sont decrits. Une difference de calibration de l'ordre de 1,2% est observee par rapport aux mesures realisees par les methodes de references. La teneur en lipides est estimee par regression lineaire avec un coefficient de correlation de 0,58 et un intervalle de confiance de ±1,57 % (p < 0,05). La mesure de la teneur en matiere grasse moyenne d'un lot est plus precise que la mesure individuelle, mais cette derniere permet d'identifier les sujets plus ou moins gras au sein d'un lot.
Analytical Determination of Tartrate Stability in Wine. II. Calcium Tartrate

The solubility of calcium tartrate in alcohol was found to be a log function of both alcohol concentration and temperature. The solubility product constants for calcium tartrate at the average ionic strength of wine were calculated over the range of temperatures and alcohol contents of interest to enologists. The variation in percent T = with pH in table and dessert wines was determined by calculation using disociation constants of tartaric acid at the average ionic strength of wine. A table is presented showing that the solubility of calcium tartrate is much greater in wine than in alcohol-water solutions. Possible reasons are offered.
Nitrate Content and Expression of Putative Nitrate Transporter Genes in Lettuce Fertilized with Nitrogen Fertilizers

ABSTRACT Nitrate accumulation in plants is influenced by environmental conditions and genetic variability. It is important to develop approaches that could be used to reduce nitrate levels in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) because nitrate accumulated in leaves can cause harmful health effects in humans. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to determine effects of ammonium nitrate or urea nitrogen on lettuce fresh weight, nitrate content, and characterization of nitrate transporter genes in lettuce. Head fresh weight in cultivars grown with the nitrogen fertilizers differed. All cultivars accumulated more nitrates with urea than with ammonium nitrate fertilizer. ‘Great Lakes’ had lower nitrate accumulation than other cultivars due to urea or ammonium nitrate treatment. Lettuce nitrate transporter genes LsNRT1 and LsNRT2 were detected and their expression level varied due to cultivar and leaf position. ‘Great Lakes’ had low mRNA levels of LsNRT1 and LsNRT2 in leaves compared to other cultivars. ‘Great Lakes’ could be used for lettuce production due to high yield and lower nitrate content.
PaddlePaddle: A Production-Oriented Deep Learning Platform Facilitating the Competency of Enterprises

As a thriving branch of Artificial Intelligence (AI), deep learning has empowered industries through cost reduction and efficiency improvement. Enterprise decision-makers need skilled employees who are familiar with their business and deep learning. As a result, they are placing increasing emphasis on deep learning technology. However, mastering mathematics, probability theory, and programming is a prerequisite for deep learning studies, which is a high threshold for business employees, especially for those who are not computer science majors. To solve this problem, we created a production-oriented deep learning platform-PaddlePaddle, to meet the needs of employees from various technological backgrounds. PaddlePaddle is a four-tiered software architecture, which consists of Core Framework, Algorithm Suites, Scene Suites, and Visual Interface. Four components are inter-compatible and gradually progressive. It also proposes a new model of cultivating employees to start using the Visual Interface, then use the Core Framework with the improvement of technology. In this paper, we report the architecture and functions of PaddlePaddle in detail, with a special emphasis on its novel aspects:
A new phoronid species, Phoronis embryolabi, with a novel type of development, and consideration of phoronid taxonomy and DNA barcoding

Abstract. The Phoronida, which is one of the smallest phyla of invertebrates, includes only 13 valid species, although ∼40 larval forms of phoronids were recently described. This report uses light microscopy and molecular methods to describe a new phoronid species, Phoronis embryolabi Temereva & Chichvarkhin, sp. nov. The morphology of P. embryolabi, which lives commensally in the burrows of Axiidea shrimp Nihonotrypaea japonica in Vostok Bay (the Sea of Japan), is extremely similar to that of Phoronis pallida Silen, 1952; the bodies of both species exhibit specific regionalisation. However, the organisation of the metanephridia differs between P. pallida and P. embryolabi. Moreover, P. embryolabi has a unique type of development, viviparity, in which mothers release fully developed larvae into the environment. In all other phoronid species, the spawning occurs as a release of fertilised eggs or early embryos. Viviparity of completely developed larvae has not been previously described for any phoronid. According to analysis of partial 28S rRNA, P. embryolabi is close to Phoronis pallida. On the other hand, analysis of partial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I indicated a unique position of P. embryolabi among phoronids. These results should be used for revision of phoronid taxonomy (i.e. the type of development should be considered as characteristic of subgenera within the genus Phoronis). This report also establishes the relationship between P. embryolabi and an Actinotrocha sp. that was described in a previous paper.
Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of Ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus) and quantification of its selected marker compounds: Effect of extraction

ABSTRACT The effect of heating time (30, 45, and 60 min) and temperature (45, 65, and 85°C) on the extraction yield (total soluble solids) of Ulam raja (Cosmos caudatus) was studied using face-centered composite design-response surface methodology. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity (TEACDPPH) of samples obtained by aqueous extraction under different temperature and time were determined using Folin–Ciocalteau and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity assays, respectively. The yield, total phenolic content, and TEACDPPH of Ulam raja extracts ranged as 3.0–4.2 °Brix, 36.09–37.76 mg gallic acid equivalent/g, and 121.17–146.84 µmol Trolox equivalent/g of plant material on dry basis, respectively. Yield and TEACDPPH of samples were significantly influenced (p < 0.05) by the extraction conditions. Meanwhile, no significant effect (p > 0.05) on total phenolic content was observed. Extraction of Ulam raja at 85°C for 30 min resulted in higher yield and TEACDPPH of the extract. The chromatographic and spectral data confirmed the presence of several flavonoids in the lyophilized Ulam raja extract, i.e., quercitrin, catechin, and rutin, and their quantities were also reported as 36.9, 25.0, and 8.2 mg/g of Ulam raja extract, respectively.
Plant composition patterns inside an endemic birds’ nest fern (Asplenium goudeyi) on Lord Howe Island: effects of fern size, fern isolation and plant dispersal abilities

Abstract: The importance of deterministic and stochastic processes in structuring ecological communities is an enduring debate. Although this debate is nearly a century old, the extent to which communities are structured by species interactions or chance events is a central issue in ecology. We examined the assemblages of plants living inside 119 birds’ nest ferns (Asplenium goudeyi), which are endemic to Lord Howe Island. Specifically, we investigated whether patterns of species richness and community composition were influenced by fern size, fern isolation and plant dispersal abilities. Fern size and fern isolation significantly predicted plant community richness. At the community level, plant composition patterns did not deviate from randomized expectations. Individual species occurrences increased with increasing community richness, and no species exclusions were observed. Wind-dispersed taxa, which accounted for 29% of all species, were well represented in isolated ferns. Comparatively, poorer dispersers were confined to ferns nearest the forest at the base of the cliffs. We suggest that dispersal plays a key role in structuring plant communities living within birds’ nest ferns, and that species interactions are less important. Our study emphasizes the importance of epiphytes with a nest-like growth form as habitat for plants in a harsh environment.
Hybridization in North American Asclepias.

Biometric study of natural populations and artificial hybrids revealed hybridization and possible introgression between Asclepias exaltata and A. syriaca. Herbarium specimens and plants from natural populations in Virginia, West Virginia, and Michigan were measured for 17 vegetative characters. The elliptic leaves of A. exaltata were glabrous to sparsely pubescent and tapered to an acute base and broadly acuminate apex. In contrast, the densely tomentose leaves of A. syriaca were ovate or broad throughout their length, typically with a rounded base and a cuspidate apex. Principal components analysis showed that the two parental species are highly distinct and suggested an intermediate placement of putative F1 hybrids. More complex patterns from certain natural popu- lations suggested that backcrossing and introgression had occurred. A total of 20 reproductive characters also was measured for natural populations and for F1 hybrids from artificial pollinations. Again, parental populations were highly distinctive and putative hybrid populations were inter- mediate for most characters, including umbel size, pedicel length, petal length, horn length, anther head length, number of hood teeth, median and lateral hood tooth heights, hood width, the ratio of hood height to horn extension, and the width to length ratios for anther head and column. Bumblebees and butterflies were observed on both species and their hybrids, and considerable overlap in flowering time occurred. Experimental cross-pollinations were successful using either species as the maternal parent. Seeds from these interspecific crosses germinated and grew into viable, fertile, F1 hybrids, which were successfully backcrossed to A. syriaca. Vegetative and repro- ductive morphology of these plants was similar to that observed for naturally occurring hybrids and backcrosses. Contrary to prevailing dogma, it appears that hybridization does occur in milk- weeds.
Structured Illumination Microscopy (SIM) and Photoactivated Localization Microscopy (PALM) to Analyze the Abundance and Distribution of RNA Polymerase II Molecules on Flow-Sorted Arabidopsis Nuclei

[Abstract] RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) is the enzyme transcribing most of the eukaryotic protein-coding genes. Analysing the distribution and quantification of RNAPII can help understanding its function in interphase nuclei. Although several investigations in mammals indicate the organization of RNAPII in so-called ‘transcription factories’ (Jackson et al., 1993; Rieder et al., 2012; Papantonis and Cook, 2013), their existence is still controversially discussed (Zhao et al., 2014). Recently, based on super-resolution microscopy the presence of transcription factories was also suggested in plants. Applying structured illumination microscopy (SIM) and photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM) the distribution and number of RNAPII molecules in Arabidopsis nuclei were analysed and a positive correlation between RNAPII abundance and endopolyploidy was found (Schubert, 2014; Schubert and Weisshart, 2015). Here, we present a protocol describing the isolation of Arabidopsis thaliana interphase nuclei via flow-sorting according to their endopolyploidy level, followed by a double immunostaining using antibodies specific for different RNAPII modifications and the subsequent evaluation by spatial SIM and PALM to achieve results regarding the abundance, distribution and co-localization of single inactive and active RNAPII molecules.
The status of Mexican and southwestern United States blind snakes allied with Leptotyphlops dulcis (Serpentes: Leptotyphlopidae)

The taxonomic status of the blind snakes Leptotyphlops dulcis dulcis, L. dulcis dissectus and L. dulcis myopicus was re-evaluated, based upon the study of 867 individuals from the United States and Mexico. The presence ofeither a single or a divided anterior supralabial was considered to be a conservative character; based on this character, the specimens were divided into two groups. Analysis of variance of total dorsal scales within these two groups, paired with Duncan's Multiple Range Test, suggests that these three taxa represent three full species. Within the group with a single anterior supralabial, L. dulcis comprises three races (L. dulcis dulcis, L. dulcis rubellum and an as-yet-unnamed race in eastern Oklahoma). Within the group with a divided anterior supralabial, L. dissectus is monotypic and L. myopicus consists of two races (L. myopicus myopicus and L. myopicus iversoni). Chihuahuan individuals previously classified as L. dulcis supraocularis were reassigned to L. dissectus.
Why is adoption of agroforestry stymied in Zambia? Perspectives from the ground-up

Small-scale farmers in Zambia are faced with problems of low crop productivity, scarcity of fuel wood and fodder, and subsequently are generally food insecure. Agroforestry can contribute to food and income security, amelioration of the environment and subsequently, to mitigation of climate change effects. However, despite all the potential of agroforestry technologies and the effort to promote them among smallholder farmers, their adoption and diffusion have remained low and so has their impact. Unless farmers adopt some of these technologies as part of their farming system, the potential benefits of agroforestry to food security, livelihoods and the environment will not be realized. This study investigated trialing and adoption levels of agroforestry in eastern Zambia where agroforestry has been researched and promoted for over two decades. A survey was completed of 388 small scale farmers. Data analysis shows that testing of improved fallows and biomass transfer, though low at 44.9 and 21.4% respectively, was higher than that of domestication of indigenous fruits (4.4%), Fodder banks (3.9%) and Woodlots (3.1%). The study however found that adoption rate of agroforestry among farmers that initially tested is high. Factors that affect adoption include lack of seed, limited land size, method of ploughing, lack of interest and access to extension services. Therefore we advocate for intensified promotion and encouragement support so that more farmers can trial these technologies. With high trialing rates, adoption of agroforestry is likely to increase. The key policy implication of this study is the necessity to embark on educating farmers so that they can trial and subsequently experience the impact of agroforestry technologies. Agroforestry will only make meaningful contribution to improving land productivity and farmer livelihoods if it is adopted.
Triglyceride accumulation and the cell cycle in chlorella

Triglyceride (TG) storage lipid accumulates in microalgae during exposure to stresses which inhibit algal cell cycles. Such inhibition is typically induced by nutrient limitations such as depletion of nitrogen for green algae and silicate for diatoms. No direct mechanism has been described for low nutrient-induced lipid accumulation. It is proposed that TG accumulation in microalgae could be based on a synthesis/utilization pattern which is constitutive within the cell division cycle, as opposed to a specifically-induced synthesis of TG. Triglyceride accumulation occurs when a lag is induced in the cell cycle such that TG synthesis exceeds utilization. Historically, total lipids have been quantified and the cycling of TG independent of other lipid fractions has often been overlooked. Recognizing the limitations of earlier researchers, trends in TG levels were examined using the neutral lipid (NL) specific fluorochrome, Nile Red, throughout complete cell cycles of synchronized cultures of Chlorella CHLORl under conditions of alkaline stress, nitrogen deprivation, and with monofluoroacetate (MFA) an inhibitor of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Alkaline pH stress, nitrate deprivation and TCA inhibition affects lipid accumulation by inhibiting the cell division cycle prior to TG utilization. Low levels of calcium were not found to have any noticeable effects on TG synthesis. An accumulation of 2.5 to 5.5 times the initial NL level per cell resulted after 25 hours of culturing under alkaline conditions. Nitrogen deprivation yielded increases of 1.4 and 2.5 times the initial NL level after 36 hours and 14 days, respectively. In less than 30 hours, inhibition of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) with MFA resulted in NL levels of 1.4 to 3.8 times the initial NL level per cell. Radiolabeled acetate is assimilated at a constant rate into the neutral lipid fraction. Cultures with growth inhibited by MFA assimilated more radiolabel into neutral lipids and less radiolabel into the glycoand polar lipid fractions than in control cultures. TRIGLYCERIDE ACCUMULATION AND THE CELL CYCLE IN CHT.QRET. TA
Contextual Insights into the Rett Syndrome Transcriptome

Mutations in MECP2 are responsible for Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe X-linked neurological disorder characterized by loss of developmental milestones, intellectual disability and motor impairments. However, molecular insight into how these mutations affect the neuronal transcriptiome, disrupt neuronal function and contribute to RTT is impeded by the cellular heterogeneity of the mammalian brain. A comparison between gene expression changes in the striatum, hypothalamus, and cerebellum of MeCP2-null mice revealed that gene expression changes are distinct between different brain regions, which suggests that MeCP2 function should be understood in a cell type-dependent context. To accomplish this task, I generated and phenotypically characterized tagged knock-in mice bearing frequent RTT mutations in Mecp2 (T158M, R106W). Concurrently, I also developed a novel genetic system that allows the tag to be post-translationally modified with biotin in a cell type-specific manner. Altogether, these mice allow for molecular profiling of WT and mutant cortical neurons in the mammalian brain. MeCP2-dependent gene expression changes vary by age and cell type, and the degree of Pol II-mediated transcriptional changes genome-wide correlates with the severity of the RTT mutation. I also detected evidence that supports the post-transcriptional compensation of misregulated long genes, leading to a reinterpretation of prevailing thought within the RTT research field with regards to MeCP2 function. Finally, this genetic strategy circumvents genetic mosaicism associated with female mouse models of RTT and identifies functionally distinct transcriptional changes between neighboring WT and mutant neurons, therefore providing key insights into phenotypic severity between RTT-associated mutation types. By assessing RTT transcriptomes across various neuronal contexts, I propose a novel contextualized paradigm for MeCP2 function in neuronal cell types that not only hypothesizes how MeCP2 dysfunction leads to the cellular deficits that give rise to RTT-like phenotypes, but identifies novel transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms that may be future therapeutic targets for RTT. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Cell & Molecular Biology First Advisor Zhaolan Zhou
Chromosome Number Increasing in Torenia Hybrid by Application of Colchicine Tablet

Abstract The effects of colchicine tablets on Torenia hybrids ( Torenia fournieri x Torenia asiatica ) were studied. Nodes and leaf sections were cut and soaked in 15 ppm concentration of colchicine solution for 0, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours. The highest frequency of polyploid induction was 25% at the soaking duration of 48 hours. The results showed that the plants regenerated from the colchicine-treated explants displayed some of the morphological characteristics of polyploids, such as thick stems and shorter plant height. Keywords: tetraploid; polyploid; ornamental; mutation