Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Characterization, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) identification and variation of goat c-Kit gene in different populations

Effects of C-kit mutations on coat color has been reported in human, pig and mouse, little is known about it in goat. In this paper, a total of 22472 bp of goat c-Kit gene sequence (HM130675) was determined and 20 variable sites were detected, of which only one (g.40545G>A) existed in exon 16 resulting in p.Gly763Glu, the others all existed in introns. The variation of g.40545G>A and g. 35818_35819insTCTC was analyzed in different goat populations with different coat color. The results showed that allele A at g.40545G>A and T at g. 35818_35819insTCTC was favour of white, while allele G at g.40545G>A and C atg. 35818_35819insTCTC was favour of darker coat color. Haplotype AT and GC have close relationship with white coat color and dark coat color, respectively. The phylogenetic relationship of populations not only reflacts breed forming history, but also basically was consistent with the coat color variation. Higher deficiency of heterozygotes existed in Liaoning Cashmere Goat, Leizhou Black Goat at g.40545G>A andg. 35818_35819insTCTC, indicating their high inbreeding coefficients within populations. Key words: c-Kit, goat population, coat color, variation.
From Theory to Practice: The Experience in Venezuela

The purpose of this paper is to present a brief review of the theoretical developments of recent years in the field of integrated land-use and transport modelling, from the point of view of their usefulness in practical applications. The review is limited to the experience of the author and colleagues in Venezuela, although much of the work began at the Martin Centre. It is argued that modelling has had a profound impact in practice, and that the field will continue to grow in the future. To support this view, the paper begins with a discussion of modelling in practice and the way it has evolved. Next, the importance of a unified theory is stressed; this has enabled the development of integrated activity location and transport models which are general and flexible and make an efficient use of information. This is followed by a closer look at activity location and land use, taking the input–output model as a basis. The representation of the transport system is dealt with next, covering the main elements such as trip generation, modal split, and path search and assignment. The paper ends with conclusions and proposals for future work.
Characterisation of laccase produced by Coniothyrium minitans

A Coniothyrium minitans strain isolated from an experimental farm in Manitoba produced a substantial amount of an oxidoreductase enzyme, laccase in a 20 litre fermentation system using a simple production medium. This enzyme was purified to homogeneity by a simple procedure, the last stage of which involved hydrophobic interaction chromatography. Using this technique, over 120 mg of laccase protein was recovered per litre of fermented broth. The enzyme, with an estimated Mr of 74,000 and pI of 4.0, is a monomeric glycoprotein that contains 45% carbohydrate predominantly as mannose. It exhibited pH and temperature optima of 3.5 and 60 °C, respectively. Using 2,6‐dimeth‐oxyphenol as substrate the Km value was found to be 100 μM and the purified enzyme had a specific activity of 9.9 mkat per mg of protein.
Migration and life history alternatives in a high latitude species, the broad whitefish, Coregonus nasus Pallas

Abstract – We examined the expected changes in the life history trajectory of an Arctic species, broad whitefish, in the lower Mackenzie River between an anadromous population with spawning migrations of 350–450 km and a potamodromous population with spawning migrations of 5–12 km. Based on life history theory we predicted that the anadromous population would have faster growth, later age-at-maturity, and greater reproductive investment than the potamodromous population. Early in its life the anadromous population had faster growth than the potamodromous but later growth was slower. Age-at-maturity was greater in the anadromous population than the potamodromous. Reproductive investment was higher in the anadromous population. We conclude that the broad whitefish did not conclusively follow the pattern of variation observed between migratory and relatively sedentary populations in temperate zones. Fecundity was greater in the migratory population but not conclusively linked to age-at-maturity or growth-rate differences.
Phytoplasma classification: taxonomy based on 16S ribosomal gene, is it enough?

The discovery in 1967, of a new group of plant pathogens related to bacteria led to the finding of pleomorphic, wall-less prokaryotes in the phloem of many plant species affected by yellows-type diseases. Following the application of molecular technologies the phylogeny of these prokaryotes was resolved and led to the new trivial name of “phytoplasma” and to the designation of a new taxon named ‘Candidatus phytoplasma’. The first comprehensive phytoplasma classification scheme was based on RFLP analysis of PCR-amplified 16S rDNA, providing a reliable means for the differentiation of a broad array of phytoplasmas and has become the most comprehensive and widely accepted phytoplasma classification system. This approach using RFLP analyses of PCR amplified 16S rDNA provides a simple, reliable and rapid mean for differentiation and identification of known phytoplasmas. A consensus for naming novel phytoplasmas was recommended by the IRPCM Phytoplasma/Spiroplasma Working Team-Phytoplasma Taxonomy Group that a ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma’ species description should refer to a single, unique 16S rRNA gene sequence that has <97.5% similarity to that of any previously described ‘Ca. Phytoplasma’ species. Because of the highly conserved nature of the 16S rDNA, many biologically or ecologically distinct phytoplasma strains, which may warrant designation of a new taxon may fail to meet the requirement. In this case, additional unique biological properties such as antibody specificity, host range and vector transmission specificity as well as other molecular criteria (gene) need to be included for speciation. However, because of the highly conserved nature of the 16S rDNA and of the not uncommon presence of 16S rDNA interoperon sequence heterogeneity, the classification based on ‘Candidatus’ or on 16S ribosomal group does not always provide the molecular distinction necessary for phytoplasma strain characterization. Moreover, some additional tools for phylogenetic analyses and finer strain differentiation of phytoplasmas such as rp, secY, tuf, groEL genes, and the 16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer region sequences have been used as supplementary tools selecting those providing the most useful and reliable taxonomic information in combination with 16SrDNA.
Differential Inhibitor of Gβγ Signaling to AKT and ERK Derived from Phosducin-like Protein

Differential inhibitors of Gβγ-effector regions are required to dissect the biological contribution of specific Gβγ-initiated signaling pathways. Here, we characterize PhLP-M1-G149, a Gβγ-interacting construct derived from phosducin-like protein 1 (PhLP) as a differential inhibitor of Gβγ, which, in endothelial cells, prevented sphingosine 1-phosphate-induced phosphorylation of AKT, glycogen synthase kinase 3β, cell migration, and tubulogenesis, while having no effect on ERK phosphorylation or hepatocyte growth factor-dependent responses. This construct attenuated the recruitment of phosphoinositide 3-kinase γ (PI3Kγ) to the plasma membrane and the signaling to AKT in response to Gβγ overexpression. In coimmunoprecipitation experiments, PhLP-M1-G149 interfered with the interaction between PI3Kγ and Gβγ. Other PhLP-derived constructs interacted with Gβγ but were not effective inhibitors of Gβγ signaling to AKT or ERK. Our results indicate that PhLP-M1-G149 is a suitable tool to differentially modulate the Gβγ-initiated pathway linking this heterodimer to AKT, endothelial cell migration, and in vitro angiogenesis. It can be also useful to further characterize the molecular determinants of the Gβγ-PI3Kγ interaction.
A new species of Phthiridium (Diptera: Nycteribiidae) from Iriomote Island, the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, with a key to nycteribiid bat flies of Japan

A new species, Phthiridium sawadai (Diptera: Nycteribiidae), is described on the basis of specimens collected from the Yaeyama least horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus perditus, of Iriomote Island, Okinawa, southern Japan. This species is closely related to P. ornatum and P. szechuanum recorded from the Asian Continent in having a serrated process on the phallobase of male genitalia, but can easily be separated from these species in both male and female morphology. A key to the three Phthiridium species and a key to all eleven species of Nycteribiidae known from Japan are also provided.
Production of extruded prawn feed

Protein is the most important nutrient for shrimp because it is directly related to growth and energy requirement. A particular feed mixture combination based on protein level of 40 % was selected. During extrusion, moisture content of the inlet feed mixture and third zone barrel temperature were varied and the response in terms of water stability, water absorption, bulk density, expansion ratio and peak-shear force were measured. Optimization of process parameters, in terms of response water stability was done by response surface analysis and it was found that optimum extrusion condition occurred at 116CC and 29 % inlet feed moisture level. The value of response at that condition was found to be 8.5 %. Scanning electron micrographs showed extensive protein denaturation and partial starch gelatinisation
Designed β-Boomerang Antiendotoxic and Antimicrobial Peptides

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an integral part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, is involved in a variety of biological processes including inflammation, septic shock, and resistance to host-defense molecules. LPS also provides an environment for folding of outer membrane proteins. In this work, we describe the structure-activity correlation of a series of 12-residue peptides in LPS. NMR structures of the peptides derived in complex with LPS reveal boomerang-like β-strand conformations that are stabilized by intimate packing between the two aromatic residues located at the 4 and 9 positions. This structural feature renders these peptides with a high ability to neutralize endotoxicity, >80% at 10 nm concentration, of LPS. Replacements of these aromatic residues either with Ala or with Leu destabilizes the boomerang structure with the concomitant loss of antiendotoxic and antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, the aromatic packing stabilizing the β-boomerang structure in LPS is found to be maintained even in a truncated octapeptide, defining a structured LPS binding motif. The mode of action of the active designed peptides correlates well with their ability to perturb LPS micelle structures. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies of the peptides delineate β-type conformations and immobilization of phosphate head groups of LPS. Trp fluorescence studies demonstrated selective interactions with LPS and the depth of insertion into the LPS bilayer. Our results demonstrate the requirement of LPS-specific structures of peptides for endotoxin neutralizations. In addition, we propose that structures of these peptides may be employed to design proteins for the outer membrane.
Association analysis of polymorphism in KIAA1717 , HUMMLC2B , DECR1 and FTO genes with meat quality traits of the Berkshire breed

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in KIAA1717, HUMMLC2B, DECR1, and FTO genes have been found to be associated with some pork meat quality traits. In this study, we discovered that, in addition to meat quality traits reported previously, SNPs in these genes also are significantly associated with other meat quality traits in the Berkshire breed. A total of 323 Berkshire pigs bred under the same conditions were used for meat quality evaluation and polymerase chain reaction-amplified genes with restriction endonucleases (PCR-RFLP) genotyping analyses. The association analysis of RFLP genotyping with meat quality traits revealed that the SNPs in these 4 genes have novel associations with multiple meat quality traits (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05); a SNP in KIAA1717 was associated with meat color (CIE L), backfat thickness, drip loss, water-holding capacity, and pH 24hr ; a SNP in HUMMLC2B was associated with chemical composition (collagen), drip loss, shear force, and pH 24hr ; a SNP in DECR1 was associated with meat color (CIE a and b) and backfat thickness; and a SNP in FTO was associated with meat color (CIE L, a and b), protein content, drip loss, and water-holding capacity. Taken collectively, our results suggest that these 4 SNPs may be used for marker-assisted selection as a genetic marker for meat quality traits in Berkshire pigs. Key words : Berkshire, genetic markers, meat quality, SNP
Risk Factors Associated with Time to First Infection and Time to Failure on CAPD

The Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify prognostic risk factors for time to first infection and time to failure among 183 patients on chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). This methodology permits continuous variables such as albumin and blood pressure to be used in the predictive equation avoiding arbitrary categorization. Initial serum creatinine and albumin were found to be related to the risk of first infection. Serum creatinine increases the risk whereas albumin is protective. Age and blood pressure are related to an increased risk of failure on CAPD whereas albumin is associated with a lower risk. The occurrence of the first infection almost doubles the risk of failure. Patients who have “high” albumin and “low” blood pressure have a 75th percentile for time to failure on CAPD which is more than 1000 days longer than those who have both “low” albumin and “high” blood pressure.
Morphometric analysis of Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don), a critically endangered orchid in cold desert Ladakh region of India

The morphometric study was conducted during 2009 to 2010. About 28 morphological characters were measured under 13 natural populations of Dactylorhiza hatagirea . Geographic variation in morphology reflects phenotypic responses to environmental gradients and evolutionary history of populations and species. At points, beside its broad geographic range (Nubra, Suru and Indus valley) characterization of Dactylorhiza phenotype is normally accomplished by use of morphological descriptors, hence as a first step, phenotype collection and its morphometric analysis was assessed. However, plant height, leaf length, lowermost leaf length, length of second leaf from base and mean length from lowest bract to the top of inflorescence are presented to account for the remarkable variation in morphological characters. Tirith population showed more values of this trait while Skurru showed less value. From this, it is concluded that Tirith showed great morphometric variation as compared to other population. Multivariate morphometric techniques, principal component analysis (PCA), multidimensional scaling (MDS) and cluster analysis were used to determine whether these populations can be reliably morphologically similar or dissimilar. The first two principal components encompass more than 75% variation among population. The results of PCA and MDS analysis were comparable to the cluster analysis, which shows considerable phenotypic variation in morphological and horticultural traits that can be utilized in its genetic improvement. To support this study, further constructive information were provided on the status of the populations of D. hatagirea which may increase the conservation value of this site and resolve the suitable areas with taxonomic and nomenclatural controversies. Keywords: Morphological characters, principal component analysis (PCA), multidimensional scaling (MDS), plant height, leaf length, leaf width
Determining the Similarities between Stations using the Haplotypes of the Species Cerastoderma glaucum (Poiret, 1789) from the Romanian Black Sea Infralittoral

Cerastoderma glaucum (Poiret, 1789) represents one of the marine mollusk species found on the Romanian Black Sea soft bottom infralittoral. This species had been investigated in the past by morphological methods. Some problems concerning its biological, ecological and even behavioral aspects have remained unresolved. At the moment, molecular technique studies allow the completion of these gaps. In the present article we are aiming to identify this species by molecular methods and to perform a statistical analysis of the obtained data in order to determine the distribution of this species’ haplotypes on the littoral. With the aid of the Nucleospin® Tissue kits, through the PCR technique, the extraction and amplification of DNA has been performed to obtain the necessary data. The obtained sequences have been compared to the sequences from databases such as National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) to establish similarities. After the identification of the similar sequences, we have interpreted their distribution in different stations using the Kendall rank correlation coefficient. A number of 12 haplotypes which belong to 32 individuals from 5 stations have been identified. Using the Kendall rank correlation coefficient the identified haplotypes show different degrees of concordance with the standard haplotypes of this species. A significant statistical similarity appears in 81.14% out of the total 493 compared haplotype pairs. Out of these, 18% present perfect similarity, 76.25% good and 5.75% acceptable. The stations are similar regarding haplotypes, with some exceptions that are commented in the paper, similarities established by calculating the Kendall rank correlation coefficient.
Measuring the Character Strength of Wisdom

This study examined the psychosocial correlates and psychometric properties of the Self-Assessed Wisdom Scale (SAWS) (Webster, 2003a). Seventy-three men and 98 women ranging in age from 17–92 years (Mean age = 42.77) completed an expanded, 40-item version of the SAWS, the Loyola Generativity Scale, and the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale. A new definition of wisdom is provided which is operationalized with the SAWS. Results indicated that the SAWS has excellent reliability (test-retest = .838; Cronbach's Alpha = .904). Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor analyses confirmed the five hypothesized dimensions of wisdom and the total SAWS score correlated in predicted directions with generativity (r(169) = . 448; p < . 01) and attachment avoidance (r(169) = –. 239, p < . 01) demonstrating construct validity.
Factors Affecting the Adoption of Market Orientation: The Case of Thailand

Recently, there has been a renewed interest in market orientation or the implementation of the marketing concept by marketing professionals. This study addresses the issue from the foreign manager's perspective—specifically, the conceptual model of factors affecting the manager's decision to adopt the orientation is proposed and empirically tested. Findings show that the foreign manager's intention to adopt the orientation is positively affected by attitude toward market orientation and attitude toward innovation in management orientation. Attitude toward market orientation is, in turn, affected by the manager's beliefs regarding the relative advantage of market orientation, market turbulence, competitive intensity, and attitude toward innovation in management orientation. Attitude toward innovation in management orientation is, on the other hand, positively affected by the manager's innovativeness and negatively affected by opinion leadership. Theoretical contributions, managerial implications, limitations, and future research directions are also discussed.
Editorial

ThE Way WE Think abouT the world around us influences how we see things—and that, in turn, influences how we behave. Many years ago I argued that ‘what we believe is what we do’ (Sims, 1999). More recently, when interpreting the EYLF, I used the same underlying premise to argue that we ‘. need to help children recognise that we are all different, and that difference is exciting’ (Sims, 2009b). Just as the ELYF asks us to help children develop the skills and understanding necessary for behaving in a manner that is fair and equitable, we also need to act in a similar manner ourselves when performing our roles as early childhood professionals. We need to actively seek out new challenges, and stretch our minds and thinking by reflecting on situations and contexts that are different to those with which we are familiar. Through reflection on different contexts, different practices and different knowledge, we can grow in our own understanding of the world around us and increase our capacity to deliver high-quality practice. We need to be exposed to ideas and practices from all around the world, as this will help us to reflect on how to improve what we do in our own little corner of the world. We need to think about experiences from the perspective of others, not just our own perspective, in order to build more holistic understandings.
Antioxidant effect of L-cysteine on sodium-valproate-induced oxidative stress in rat liver: biochemical and ultrastructural approaches

L-Cysteine has protective efficacy in cases of oxidative tissue injury. Sodium valproate is widely used as an anticonvulsant and an antidepressant in spite of hepatotoxicity as side effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective role of L-cysteine in liver toxicity induced by sodium valproate overdose. Release of the hepatic enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase, and levels of lipid profiles, as well as the oxidative, enzymatic, and non-enzymatic antioxidant were assessed. Liver damage was judged histologically. L-Cysteine decreased the activity of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, as well as improved the level of lipid profile, increased the enzymatic antioxidant (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase), and decreased the lipid peroxidation. L-Cysteine administration inhibited liver injury of sodium valproate.
The role of bushmeat in a West African agricultural landscape

Abstract There is little information on the changing role of bushmeat hunting in the agricultural areas of West Africa. We assessed the status and role of bushmeat hunting and rural consumption in three communities in Ghana, through household surveys (n = 250), and interviews with hunters (n = 69), eatery owners (n = 18) and bushmeat traders (n = 3). Hunting was embedded within dynamic livelihood strategies, with two broad categories of hunters identified: a large group who targeted pests on their own farms using traps, and a smaller group of professional hunters. The professional hunters included a group of young men who hunted with dogs, and another group of older firearm hunters who tended to be members of Hunters’ Associations. All professional hunters reported a decline in bushmeat availability and expressed concerns about the viability of hunting as a livelihood. The frequency of consumption of bushmeat increased with distance from the region's main urban centre, Kumasi, but bushmeat was not found to be a major component of the diet in any of the villages. Few men self-identified as hunters, although bushmeat hunting continued to play an important role in the rural economy, primarily for crop protection. Conservation efforts need to consider the full spectrum of hunting behaviours. Specific measures should target forest-based hunters, who are more likely to damage forest ecosystems than crop pest hunters but also show more concern for the sustainability of hunting, and commitment to hunting as an institution.