Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The influence of temperature on energy budget variables, body size, and seasonal occurrence of the isopod Idotea baltica (Pallas)

Effects of temperature on ingestion (C) and metabolic (R) rates in Idotea baltica are examined to explain differences in maximum body size, longevity, and seasonal occurrence in two populations occupying habitats differing by 2–4 °C in average maximum temperature. Results illustrate that C and R are differentially affected by temperature such that the value C – R varies considerably with both body size and temperature. These data indicate that small isopods (< 20 mg) would grow most rapidly at the highest temperature studied (14 °C), whereas larger animals have maximum C – R values, and presumably grow most rapidly, at cooler temperatures (ca. 9 °C). The pattern explains why the population at the lower temperature lives twice as long, grows to much larger size, and apparently leaves the intertidal zone for a longer period than do those living in the similar warmer habitat. The results are discussed in relation to phenomena noted in other marine and freshwater crustacean populations.
Losses of nitrate from gaps of different sizes in a managed beech (Fagus sylvatica) forest

In the ongoing discussion about sustainable forestry, gap regeneration is suggested to reduce nitrate (NO3) losses from forest ecosystems. The effect of gap formation and gap size on soil moisture and NO3 leaching was studied in two managed beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) stands in Denmark for about 2 years after formation of four gaps (approx. 20 and 30 m in diameter). Soil moisture content, soil solution NO3-N concentrations, and nitrogen (N) concentrations in throughfall and precipitation were measured along transects from the gaps into the surrounding forests. Losses of NO3-N were estimated using the water balance model WATBAL. Soil moisture content in gaps remained close to field capacity throughout the year, while it decreased to 50%70% of field capacity under the closed canopy during the growing season. Drainage water fluxes, soil solution NO3-N concentrations, and NO3-N losses were increased in the gaps as compared to under the canopy. For the whole study period, losses of NO3-N were 3- to 13-fold h.
Atividade antioxidante e antimicrobiana in vitro de óleos essenciais e extratos hidroalcóolicos de manjerona (Origanum majorana L.) e manjericão (Ocimum basilicum L.)

O manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.) e a manjerona (Origanum majorana L.) sao considerados uma boa fonte nutricional com beneficios para a saude, principalmente pela presenca de compostos fenolicos com atividade antioxidante. Neste estudo, foi determinado o teor de compostos fenolicos totais, flavonoides totais e atividade antioxidante e antibacteriana de extratos hidroalcoolicos e oleos essenciais destas duas ervas aromaticas. A atividade antioxidante dos extratos hidroalcoolicos e oleos essenciais foi determinada e comparada a de antioxidantes comerciais BHT (butilhidroxi- tolueno), BHA (butil-hidroxi-anisol) e α-tocoferol pelo metodo de sequestro do radical livre DPPH• (2,2-difenil-1-picrihidrazil). Os valores obtidos para os compostos fenolicos e flavonoides totais para o manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.) foram de 63,499 mg EAG/g (EAG: equivalente em acido galico) e 14,879 mg EQ/g (EQ: equivalente em quercetina), respectivamente, e para a manjerona (Origanum majorana L.) de 41,244 mg EAG/g e 7,363 mg EQ/g, respectivamente. Foram encontradas altas atividades de sequestro para o radical livre DPPH•, com EC50 (Concentracao da substância antioxidante necessaria para reduzir em 50% a concentracao inicial do DPPH•) de 363,992 μg/mL para o extrato hidroalcoolico de manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.), 472,557 μg/mL para o extrato hidroalcoolico de manjerona (Origanum majorana L.), 0,952 μL/mL para o oleo essencial de manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.), 1,783 μL/mL para o oleo essencial de manjerona (Origanum majorana L.) e 114,665 μg/mL, 72,250 μg/mL e 61,220 μg/mL para as substâncias de referencia BHT, BHA e α-tocoferol, respectivamente. A atividade antioxidante do extrato hidroalcoolico de manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.) foi de 88,74% pelo metodo do DPPH•, para o extrato hidroalcoolico de manjerona (Origanum majorana L.) foi de 86,90%, para o oleo essencial de manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.) foi de 91,20%, para o oleo essencial de manjerona (Origanum majorana L.) foi de 81,15% e para as substâncias de referencia BHT, BHA e α- tocoferol de 52,37%, 73,69% e 90,52%, respectivamente. Foi observado que tanto o extrato hidroalcoolico quanto o oleo essencial de manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.), apresentaram uma alta capacidade de sequestro de radical livre. A atividade antioxidante dos antioxidantes utilizados na industria alimenticia (BHA, BHT e α- tocoferol) foi superior a dos extratos hidroalcoolicos de manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.) e manjerona (Origanum majorana L.), pois estes foram analisados puros. Embora os extratos hidroalcoolicos e oleos essenciais de manjericao (Ocimum basilicum L.) e manjerona (Origanum majorana L.) analisados tenham apresentado um alto teor de compostos fenolicos com atividade antioxidante, somente os oleos essenciais destas ervas demonstraram uma atividade antibacteriana nao muito significativa pelos metodos utilizados.
Antioxidant Potential of Date Palm Leaves and Acacia nilotica Fruit in Comparison with Other Four Common Arabian Medicinal Plants

This study was conducted to investigate the antioxidant activities of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) leaves (DPL) and Acacia nilotica Delile (Fabaceae) fruit (AN) and to compare their antioxidant potential with other four common Arabian medicinal plants namely, pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) seeds (PS), flax (Linum usitatissimum) seeds (FS), cinnamon, Cinnamomum cassia (Lauraceae) bark (CIN), and ginger (Zingiber officinale) Roscoe (GNR). The mean values of the total phenol concentrations of investigated plants were 299, 34.63, 2.52, 6.51,2.21,and 2.4 (mg GAE/g) in AN, DPL, GNR, CIN, PS, and FS respectively, while the mean values of the total flavonoid concentrations were 2.88,11.55,1.55, 2.08, 0.3, and 1.98 (mgQAE /g) in AN, DPL, GNR, CIN, PS, and FS respectively. The mean values of Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC, µmol Trolox equivalents per g sample) were 113.31, 147.27, 8.33, 23.75, 6.17, and 21.49 in AN, DPL, GNR, CIN, PS, and FS respectively. These results showed that DPL and AN fruit are potential rich sources of total phenol content and TEAC radical- scavenging activity compared with the current studied plants as well as with other medicinal plants reported in the literature. It will be useful to further analyze DPL and AN fruit with sophisticated techniques such as chemiluminescence and high performance liquid chromatography in order to separate and identify their active principles. (Abuelgassim O. Abuelgassim. Antioxidant Potential of Date Palm Leaves and Acacia nilotica Fruit in Comparison with Other Four Common Arabian Medicinal Plants. Life Sci J 2013;10(4):3405-3410). (ISSN:1097-8135). http://www.lifesciencesite. com . 454
In vitro morphogenesis from ovaries of Hippeastrum x hybridum

investigated. Bulblet formation rates and number of bulblets were excellent when th~ concentrations of naphthyl acetic acid (NAA) and N"-benzyladenine (BA) were the same. The combination of 5 mgl-* 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) with 0.02-2 mgl-* thidiazuron (TDZ) induced somatic embryogenesis with high rate and the combination of 5 mgl-' 2,4-D and 2 mgl-* TDZ gave the greatest number of somatic embryos among the treatments. High concentrations of TDZ (0.2-2 mgl-') promoted bulblet formation, but reduced root formation. Number of shoot primordia was high with higher 2,4-D concentrations irrespective of TDZ. The highest number of bulblets (6.4) was obtained with I mgl-1 2,4-D+0.2 mgl-* TDZ.
Genetic Control of the Reaction to Histamine in Mice after Sensitization with Pertussis Vaccine

A genetic investigation has been made to find evidence for a single major gene controlling the reaction of mice to histamine after sensitization with pertussis vaccine. Two inbred mouse strains were chosen: A2G/Lac, which is very insensitive, and C57BR/cd, which is very sensitive. Mice of these strains, and of their F1, F2 and reciprocal backcross progenies, were used to elucidate the genetic segregation. The method depends on the selective sensitivity of the F1 mice to the dilution of the sensitizing vaccine. The results point towards the control of reactivity to histamine by a single major locus, and to a loose association of non-sensitivity with the albino gene. A method is outlined for testing that this association is due to linkage in group I. A comparison is made between this reaction and the anaphylactoid reaction in rats, and suggestions are made for its use in the furtherance of the understanding of allergy and anaphylaxis.
Design of High-Power Isolated Boost DC-DC Converter for Renewable Energy Applications

Energy efficient DC-DC converters are essential to utilize the maximum power generated from renewable energy sources. The high frequency magnetic components, i.e. transformer and inductor contribute heavily to the poor conversion efficiency of any given DC-DC converter. In this paper, a full-bridge DC-DC converter is proposed with a novel design of its high-frequency transformer and inductor. The core loss effects, copper losses, proximity effects and the leakage inductances of the magnetic components are also analyzed to ensure maximum efficiency. The theoretical and simulation analysis of the converter design is also done and a full bridge topology with a voltage doubler circuit is used to acquire maximum voltage gain. Foil windings are used and extensive interleaving is done for the primary and secondary winding of the highfrequency transformer in order to reduce the core losses and the leakage inductance. The turn ratio of 1:4 is set in order to step-up the voltage level at the secondary side of the transformer. For inductor design, the core material, shape and size are finalized for the given converter specifications after thorough analysis and simulation tests. The efficiency of 96.46 percent of the converter is achieved with the chosen design specifications for the transformer and inductor. The high frequency magnetic transformer is implemented physically and it is observed that the measured result resonates with the theoretical results. Also, it has been concluded that the turns-ratio of the converter transformer have no impact on its leakage inductance.
EXPLORING MECHANISM OF RESISTANCE TO ISOPROTHIOLANE IN MAGNAPORTHE ORYZAE, THE CAUSAL AGENT OF RICE BLAST

The fungicide isoprothiolane (IPT) has widely been used to control the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae for decades. However, the molecular mechanism of resistance is still unexplained and was only believed to be associated with transmethylation in the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine. In this study we tested IPT sensitivity of hundreds of M. oryzae isolates collected from Yunnan and Hubei provinces of China. Three IPT-resistant mutants were generated by exposing the mycelium to increasing concentrations of IPT. No fitness penalty was observed in these resistant mutants. In consideration of the role on transmethylation in the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine, three candidate genes, PEAMT, CHO2, and OPI3, were sequenced, and their expression profile determined. There was no significant difference in the expression of these genes between resistant mutants and sensitive parental isolates. Additionally, Solexa sequencing was conducted to screen potential target genes. MGG_09793 was the most frequently changed gene between resistant mutant H08-1a_mut and sensitive parental isolate H08-1a after IPT treatment. After knockout, this gene in H08-1a_mut and H08-1a, resistance status did not change. This study indicates that the expected PEAMT, CHO2 and OPI3 genes were not responsible for IPT resistance. Interestingly, the DJ-1/PfpI family protein MGG_09793 was specifically and strongly induced by IPT treatment in sensitive isolates.
New Metacestodes of Gryporhynchid Tapeworms (Cestoda: Cyclophyllidea) from Carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758) from Mozambique, Africa

Abstract Larvae of 2 species of gryporhynchid tapeworms (Cestoda: Cyclophyllidea) were found in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) from Mozambique, Africa. Metacestodes of Parvitaenia samfyia Mettrick, 1967, a species never reported since the original description of its adults from herons (Ardeidae) in Zambia were found in the intestinal wall, whereas larvae of an unidentified species of Cyclustera Fuhrmann, 1901, closely resembling Cyclustera magna (Baer, 1959), a species with larvae previously reported from Tillapia zillii (Gervais) in Africa, were encapsulated in the liver of carp. Larval stages of both gryporhynchids are reported from fish for the first time. The present findings of metacestodes in common carp provide evidence that this economically important fish, which is nonnative in Africa and was introduced for aquaculture, may become infected with larvae of native gryporhynchid cestodes. The morphology of both species is described and their rostellar hooks, which are crucial for species identification of metacestodes, are illustrated.
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in animals: The story so far

Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are small RNA molecules of between 24 to 31 nucleotides (nts) sequence and interact with Piwi subfamily proteins. These piRNAs play important regulatory roles in germline stem cell maintenance, epigenetic regulation, and transposition. Although the biogenesis pathways of piRNAs are not well understood but recent scientific advances have revealed some important aspects of their synthesis. Studies on regulatory mechanism of piRNAs are in their early stages. Yet, the current findings suggest that piRNA based regulation has direct implications on germline development and transposon silencing through heterochromatin formation or RNA destabilization. This review summarizes the knowledge about all aspects of piRNAs since its discovery.
Population Parameters of Peromyscus leucopus (White-Footed Deermice) Inhabiting a Heavy Metal Contaminated Superfund Site

Abstract We used standard mark-recapture techniques to investigate ecological characteristics of populations of Peromyscus leucopus (white-footed deermice) inhabiting two locations within a site contaminated by heavy metals, Tar Creek Superfund Site, and reference sites, Lake Carl Blackwell and Oologah Wildlife Management Area, in northeastern Oklahoma. Basic demographic parameters such as size of population, rate of survival, rate of recapture, mean minimum longevity, number of reproductively active females, reproductive success, and incidence of infestation by botflies (Cuterebra fontinella) were not significantly different between contaminated and reference sites. However, adult, non-reproductive P. leucopus inhabiting contaminated sites had, on average, a larger body mass than those from reference sites. Other indicators of overall individual health, dental condition and prevalence of botfly infestations were significantly different among populations. Instances of extensive mottling of the upper and lower incisors, a reliable indicator of exposure to contamination by heavy metals, were only noted in individuals inhabiting contaminated sites. Unfortunately, no direct link between contamination and alterations to some population parameters could be established.
Molecular Phylogenetics of Garrya (Garryaceae)

Abstract Garrya (Garryaceae) comprises 15 species of shrubs and small trees restricted to the Americas. Garrya is taxonomically divided into two subgenera, Garrya and Fadyenia, which differ in morphology, secondary chemistry, and geographic distribution. The present work uses nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS) sequence data from 11 Garrya species to elucidate phylogenetic relationships within the genus and test the monophyly of the subgenera. Results strongly support subgenus Fadyenia as monophyletic, while monophyly of subgenus Garrya is supported only by maximum parsimony analyses. ITS data do not provide evidence for genetic admixture between the two subgenera of Garrya in spite of broad geographic overlap.
An Overview of the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System's Exploration Program

The Plant Exploration Program was established by USDA in 1898, several decades before the emergence of the US National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS), and continues to support international and domestic plant explorations for germplasm acquisition. These explorations are designed to fill collection gaps identified by the crop curators of the NPGS and the 40 Crop Germplasm Committees that counsel the NPGS. About 15 explorations are conducted annually under the auspices of this program. Although plant explorations to remote areas are often still the only means of acquiring unique new germplasm, the focus and methods applied by modern plant explorers have changed significantly in recent years in response to evolving germplasm needs and the new opportunities presented by recent technological advances. Modern explorations are characterized by the targeting of specific taxa and traits. New exploration techniques and tools, including geographic information systems and improved methods of data collection, are being applied to locate, document, and assess plant genetic diversity. During the past decade, legal obstacles faced by the Program have increased due to restrictive laws implemented in germplasm donor countries that exercise their national sovereignty over genetic resources, replacing the free and open access to genetic resources that prevailed before the ratification of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1993. The NPGS has responded to these regulatory challenges with a flexible approach that includes nonmonetary benefit sharing and increased partnerships with host countries.
Floral and reproductive biology of Sarpagandha Rauvolfia serpentine (Gentianales: Apocynaceae) in semi-arid environment of India

Sarpagandha plant Rauvolfia serpentina (Linn.) Benth. , ex Kurz bears small, tubular white to pinkish flowers with gamopetalous corolla, containing nectar deep at the base of the corolla tube. Psychophilous mode of pollination appears to be prevalent. Flowering occurs during two summer months. Anthesis takes place in the morning when atmospheric temperature ranges from 25-29 0C, and anther dehiscence from 28-31 0C. Flower longevity is for a little more than two days. Nectar is produced on both the days of flower opening, and over a wide range of ambient temperature (29-44 0C). Flowers are protogynous preventing selfing. Pollen viability and stigmatic receptivity are for a short duration. When compared with the absolute reproductive potential, the realized reproductive potential is very low.
Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Traditional Herbs and Honey against Fish Associated Bacterial Pathogens

Antibacterial activity of four traditionally used medicinal plants viz., Zingiber officinale, Allium sativum, Mentha spicata and Ocimum basilicum have been studied against fish bacterial pathogens, using agar disc diffusion method. Bacterial pathogens including Shigella flexneri, Enterobacter amnigenus, Salmonella typhimurium, and Serratia odorifera were isolated from spoiled Rita rita and Schizothorax plagiostomus. Ethanolic and methanolic extracts of naturally dried A. sativum and Z. officinale significantly inhibited the growth of S. typhimurium, S. flexneri and E. amnigenus. Additionally, all extracts of O. basilicum substantiated moderate inhibition of all tested pathogens whereas ethanolic, diethyl ether and chloroform extracts of M. spicata corroborated low effect against all pathogens except S. flexneri. Honey also inhibited growth of S. odorifera, E. amnigenus, and S. flexneri. Activity index analysis showed the potential use of these plants and honey against S. flexneri when compared to antibiotics. All extracts of medicinal plants also indicated the significant antioxidant activity. The present study shows that these traditional medicinal plants and honey could potentially be used as antibacterial and antioxidant agents.
Assessing Welfare of Armadillos Using Hormonal & Foraging Indicators, and Patch Use in Argentinean Birds

This dissertation explores aspects of endocrinology and foraging ecology to study the hormone profiles and well-being of zoo-housed three-banded armadillos (Tolypeutes matacus). It also uses foraging ecology to study foraging behavior in a seed-eating bird community in Argentina. Though the subjects may seem different, understanding how animals perceive and react to their environments is a common theme. Chapter 1 describes my journey to and through the dissertation, as I tackled my lab work, and broke free from my fear of field work. It also reflects my beliefs and personal goals for my post-doctorate career. Chapter 2 describes the characterization of the gonadal hormone activity of the zoo-housed three-banded armadillo. Non-invasive fecal hormone analysis was used to evaluate the fecal progestagen metabolites in females’ samples and fecal androgen metabolites in males’ samples using enzyme immunoassays. The third chapter describes the characterization of the adrenocortical activity of the zoo-housed three-banded armadillo. An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge was conducted (1 male, 1 female) to validate the physiological response of elevated adrenocortical activity expected from an increase in ACTH. Biological events (aggressive pairing, copulation, pregnancy, veterinary procedures) validated the biological elevation of adrenocortical activity in response to a stressor. A longitudinal study of the adrenocortical activity of male and female armadillos was also conducted. Chapter 4 examines the integration of evaluating the adrenocortical activity and foraging behavior in zoo-housed armadillos to determine how they perceive their environment to assess their well-being. Foraging patches were used to quantify foraging intensity (giving-up densities, GUDs) of armadillos within three patch treatments (varying substrate quantity, patch quality and bedding amount). Non-invasive fecal hormone analysis was used to evaluate the fecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGM) in male and female samples using enzyme immunoassays. The fifth chapter addresses the foraging behavior of a seed-eating bird community in Argentina. The work supports the idea that birds are major seed consumers in South America and may out-compete rodents for seeds in these communities. Giving-up densities were measured to evaluate bird’s foraging preferences. Camera traps allowed for the identification of species that foraged from food patches, along with their spatial and temporal patterns.