Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The role of landscape context in biological control of cereal aphids

Producing enough food to sustainably meet the demands of a growing global population is one of the greatest challenges we face. In wheat, 8% of yield is lost to insect herbivores before harvest, so improving pest control would contribute significantly to food security. Given the negative effects of chemical insecticides, managing habitat to boost numbers of pest natural enemies offers a promising alternative. Recent studies highlight the importance of wider landscape context for natural enemy management, but there is uncertainty over which landscape characteristics are most important for different natural enemies, how this varies temporally, and which management strategies are worthwhile. In this thesis novel analytical approaches using random forests were used to explore temporal and inter-specific variation in the influence of landscape context on species of aphid and hymenopterous parasitoid in winter wheat fields in the UK, and to produce models predicting the abundance of aphids, parasitoids and syrphid larvae as functional groups. Aphid and parasitoid numbers responded strongly to the spatial configuration of vegetation parcels, both being more common in more fine-grained landscapes. Syrphid larvae were more abundant when arable land was rare within 1500 metres. Seasonal variation in landscape influence was more important than annual or inter-species differences for both aphids and parasitoids. Map-based simulations were then performed to predict the outcome of hypothetical land-use scenarios, using a novel method based on statistical models. Displacement of non-crop vegetation by arable land, alongside increased aggregation, produced consistently undesirable results. Estimates of the economic value of natural enemies to farmers were made, showing the potential to reduce yield loss and insecticide cost by at least £55 per hectare through beneficial habitat management. At high aphid densities, natural enemies were more valuable under insecticide free management. Future work and implications of these results are discussed in chapter 6.
The Interaction of Early Salt Stress-Induced 2 (ESI2) and the Ran G Protein in Arabidopsis

The Early Salt Stress-Induced 2 protein, ESI2, was identified as an interacting protein with the GTP-binding protein RAN via a His6-tag pull-down assay and by bimolecular fluorescent complementation. Fluorescent protein fusions transiently expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana were observed using confocal fluorescent microscopy. The proteins fused to independent fluorescent partners localized to separate cellular compartments, with RAN primarily localized to the nucleus and ESI2 localized primarily to the tonoplast and cytoplasm. This interaction suggests a potential mechanism for the role of ESI2 in the sequestration of RAN and possible regulation of cell division in response to stress. To further explore the role of ESI2, the protein was overexpressed in Arabidopsis however plant phenotypes were not found to differ from wild type plants.
Impact of Website Quality, Customer’s Trust and Customer’s Attitudes Toward On-line Channel on Customer’s Intention to Use Service of Premium Department Stores in Bangkok

The purposes of this study was to investigate the effect of website quality, customers trust and customers attitudes toward on-line channel on customer’s intention to use service of premium department stores in Bangkok. The 130 samples were randomly selected from people who live in Bangkok. The quantitative research was applied by using questionnaire: The reliability with the value of 0.913 and content validity conducted by the specialized scholar were implemented. The frequency: means, standard deviation, and multiple regression analysis were applied as the statistical instrument for data analysis and hypothesis testing at 0.05 of significant level.
Identifying Host Factors Important for Hantavirus Entry

Hantaviruses are a genus of rodent-borne viruses within the family Bunyaviridae. Humans are a dead end host, wherein Hantavirus infection can cause severe, potentially fatal clinical disease. The specific mechanisms of Hantavirus infection are poorly understood. In particular, the host proteins and entry pathways that mediate Hantavirus entry are not yet known. We set out to identify these factors using two separate, but potentially complementary methods, focusing our efforts on a representative Hantavirus Andes Virus (ANDV). First, using a high-throughput, luciferase-based assay with ANDV pseudotypes, we screened a siRNA library of ~9000 genes to identify host factors involved in ANDV infection. We ultimately identified 9 genes important for Hantavirus entry including SREBF2, a transcriptional regulator of cholesterol uptake. At the same time, a separate genetic screen performed by a collaborator independently identified SREBF2 and other members of the same cholesterol regulatory pathway (SCAP, S1P, S2P). Further experiments using siRNAs and small molecule inhibitors with both pseudotypes and live ANDV, identified an important role for cholesterol in ANDV internalization. Second, we attempted to use the highly characterized NCI-60 panel of cell lines to identify genes whose expression is correlated with ANDV entry. We infected a panel of 32 cell lines with ANDV pseudovirions in a FACS-based assay to measure relative permissiveness and then correlated permissiveness with gene expression using cDNA microarray data for these cell lines. Using this analysis we identified a list of 33 genes that potentially play a role in ANDV entry. Although initial follow-up experiments have failed to validate a subset of these genes, further experiments will be needed to fully test the entire list of candidate genes. Further analysis and experiments combining this list of genes with the cholesteroldependence of ANDV entry may lead to further identification of specific pathways and factors utilized by Hantaviruses for infection and possibly potential targets for therapy. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Cell & Molecular Biology First Advisor Robert W. Doms
Evaluation of the Production and Genetic Potential of Indigenous Mukota and their Crosses with Large White Pigs in Zimbabwe.

Mukota pig populations in smallholder areas of Zimbabwe are decreasing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and genetic potential of the Zimbabwean indigenous pig and Large White × Mukota in commercial pig production. The trial was conducted at the University of Zimbabwe Farm, Harare, Zimbabwe. All dry sows were fed on a high fibre diet. All the fixed effects were analysed using generalised linear models procedure of SAS (2000) and genetic parameters were estimated using average information restricted maximum likelihood. Piglets were weaned at 35 days. Sows mated to Large White boars had larger litter sizes and total litter weight than Mukota. The growth rate of the two genotypes before weaning was not different (P>0.05). Post-weaning growth showed that boars had higher body weight gains than gilts (P<0.05). Body weights were consistently higher in the crossbred than in the Mukota pigs (P<0.05). Mukota pigs showed a peak growth between 12 and 16 weeks post-weaning. Crossbred pigs had longer (P<0.05) carcasses than Mukota (507.2 ± 0.92 versus 655.5 ± 1.68 mm). The genetic correlation between the direct and maternal genetic effects on birth weight was –0.354 and –0.295. The heritabilities for litter weight at three weeks (LTHRWT), litter weight at weaning (LWWT) and mothering ability (MA) were 0.18, 0.15 and 0.05, respectively. There were no genetic relationships between MA and LTHRWT and LWWT. The heritabilities for growth rates, before and after 12 weeks, were 0.27, 0.21, respectively. There was a positive genetic correlation between weight at weaning and average daily gain from weaning to 12 weeks ( = 0.68). The backfat thickness at 50 and 75 mm were highly correlated ( = 0.88). Weight at birth was positively correlated with average daily gain from birth to weaning, whereas the relationship of BWT versus weight gain from 12 weeks to slaughter was unfavourable. Selection and crossbreeding can be used to improve smallholder pig production. The presence of the genetic correlations demonstrates the need to use multitrait analyses in evaluating genetic worthiness of pigs.
Telomere function and the radiosensitivity of squamous carcinoma of the head and neck

This thesis considers whether the alteration of telomere function by manipulation of the telomerase enzyme can affect the radiosensitivity of in vivo derived SCCHN cells and hence whether telomere dysfunction inducing strategies are likely to be synergistic with ionising radiation in the management of SCCHN. The role of telomerase in radioprotecting cancer cells is investigated using the ectopic expression of hTERT in cell lines with high and low levels of telomerase. The effect of inhibiting telomerase expression is examined using a dominant negative telomerase gene. This approach had little success in SCCHN cells and so further experiments designed to elaborate the effect of telomerase inhibition on radiosensitivity were carried out using the small molecule reverse transcriptase inhibitor 3’ – azido, 3’ – deoxythymidine (AZT). These showed both telomerase suppression and increased radiosensitivity in cells exposed to AZT in culture. Other suggested factors which may affect the success of radiotherapy for cancer include the missense mutation of the p53 gene. A common polymorphism at codon 72 gives rise to Arginine or proline forms of the protein. This thesis investigates whether this variation affects radiosensitivity in SCCHN cells by assessing a panel of in vivo derived SCCHN cell lines. If the level of telomerase expression does not impact on radiosensitivity, then the use of antitelomerase strategies may be less effective with higher levels of telomerase expression in tumours. Continued selective pressure during tumour progression may mean the emergence of clonal variants with improved telomere function via greater levels of telomerase. This is investigated by anaphase bridge scoring of primary and recurrent archival tumour material. Analysis of cells from primary lesions and then from recurrent disease in the same patient provides information in this regard.
Population genetic inference of demographic processes in the African Wild Silk Moth, Gonometa postica (Lasiocampidae)

The African Wild Silk Moth (Gonometa postica) experiences large inter-annual population size fluctuations in southern Africa. This species is currently of economic interest, as the focal species in the initiation of an African Wild Silk Industry. However, a consistent problem in the industry is the lack of a sufficient supply of cocoons. Therefore, we present data from three years of distribution surveys of eruptions of African Wild Silk Moths in southern Africa. Eruptions of the species show large degrees of variation on both spatial and temporal scales. In addition, we show an overall decrease in the persistence of eruptions over the sampling period. Furthermore, we use generalised additive modelling (GAM) to identify climatic variables that are significantly correlated with presence/absence of the species. Temperature and rainfall before the emergence of adult moths are significantly correlated with presence/absence. However, the effects of exogenous and endogenous factors on population cycles in this species are probably interlinked. Thus only longterm multidisciplinary population dynamics research will be sufficient to address the factors responsible for the complex population cycle observed in this species.
Susceptibilidad de Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemíptera : Liviidae) a insecticidas en Veracruz, México.

espanolEl manejo de la enfermedad bacteriana de los citricos Huanglongbing (HLB) es mas efectivo si se enfoca al control del insecto vector en Areas Regionales de Control (ARCO). Para apoyar la estrategia de manejo regional de insecticidas se determino la susceptibilidad de dos poblaciones de Diaphorina citri a los insecticidas endosulfan, dimetoato, imidacloprid, malation, metomilo, abamectina y lambda-cialotrina. El imidacloprid formulado como producto comercial se evaluo por absorcion sistemica en plantulas de naranja (Citrus sinensis L.) cv. Valencia. Los demas productos formulados en grado tecnico se evaluaron por aplicacion topica en diluciones con acetona. La mortalidad se registro 24 h despues de aplicar los insecticidas. Para cada producto se obtuvo la DL50 o CL50 mediante analisis Probit y se calculo el factor de resistencia. La colonia Cazones fue susceptible a los siete insecticidas evaluados, por lo que estos valores se proponen como base para la vigilancia de la resistencia. La poblacion de Martinez tambien mostro susceptibilidad a abamectina, endosulfan, lambda-cialotrina, imidacloprid y malation, y resistencia a dimetoato (87.52 X) y metomilo (83.58 X). EnglishThe management of the citrus bacterial disease Huanglongbing (HLB) is more effective when focused on the control of the insect vector in Regional Control Areas (RCA). To support the regional management strategy of insecticides, susceptibility of two Diaphorina citri populations to the insecticides endosulfan, dimethoate, imidacloprid, malathion, methomyl, abamectin and lambda-cyhalothrin was determined. Imidacloprid formulated as a commercial product was evaluated by systemic absorption in orange seedlings (Citrus sinensis L.) cv. Valencia. The other technical grade formulated products were evaluated by topical application in dilutions with acetone. Mortality was registered 24 һ after applying the insecticides. For each product the LD50 or LC50 was obtained through Probit analysis and the resistance factor was calculated. Cazones colony was susceptible to the seven insecticides evaluated, thus these values are proposed as a baseline for monitoring resistance. Martinez population also showed susceptibility to abamectin, endosulfan, lambda-cyhalothrin, imidacloprid and malathion, and resistance to dimethoate (87.52 X) and methomyl (83.58 X).
Pobieranie narządów po zatrzymaniu krążenia : o nadrzędności neurologicznego kryterium śmierci nad krążeniowym - kwestie filozoficzne

Przedmiotem tego dwucześciowego artykulu są zagadnienia bioetyczne związane z pobieraniem narządow po zatrzymaniu krązenia. Cześc druga poświecona jest problemom filozoficznym. Analizuje tutaj trzy koncepcje śmierci, ktore utozsamiają koniec zycia z (a) somatyczną dezintegracją organizmu, (b) nieodwracalną utratą zdolności do samozachowania oraz (c) nieodwracalną utratą statusu moralnego pacjenta. Odwolując sie do tych trzech stanowisk, argumentuje, ze krązeniowe kryterium śmierci jest wiarygodne tylko wtedy, jeśli zatrzymanie krązenia trwa na tyle dlugo, ze prowadzi do śmierci mozgu. Wziąwszy to pod uwage, mozna przypuszczac, ze przyjety obecnie 5 minutowy okres obserwacji zatrzymania krązenia nie wystarcza do tego, aby nastąpila śmierc pacjenta.
Cellulase Enzyme Activity of Aspergillus fumigatus from Mangrove Soil on Lignocellulosic Substrate

Sawdust was used as lignocellulosic substrates for the production of cellulase enzyme using Aspergillus fumigatus Â which was isolated from mangrove soil after pretreatment with 4% sodium hydroxide. Parameters like pH, temperature, nitrogen sources and inducers were optimized for the cellulase production.
Perfiles sanguíneos de progesterona y estradiol del Pecari tajacu en cautiverio

The objective was to characterize the levels of progesterone (P4) and 17b estradiol (E-17b) in blood of 11 Pecari tajacu adult females in captivity. The females were in the presence of males but separated by a wire mesh. Blood samples were taken every 6 days during 3 months. The estimation of the levels of the steroid hormones was carried out by radioimmunoassay in solid phase. Hormonal profiles were plotted against time, to determine the duration of each ovarian cycle and the number of cycles. Nine animals showed estrous cycle and 2 did not. The average duration of the ovarian cycle was 26.8±4.8 days. The average concentration of P4 in the luteal phase was 22.95±4.94 ng/mL, and during the follicular phase was 1.2±0.73 ng/mL (p<0.05). The levels of E-17b in the luteal phase were 6.89±2.79 pg/mL, and 32.17±7.29 pg/mL in the follicular phase (p<0.05). The presence of the ovarian cycles was variable, although the duration was within the range of values established for this species under captivity. The synchrony of the hormonal profiles of P4 and E-17b during the ovarian cycle was inverted.
Taxonomic Review of the Umbelliferous genus Sium L. in Korea: Inferences based on Molecular Data

The taxonomy of umbel genus Sium L. , Apiaceae in Korea was reviewed on the basis of molecular phylogenies derived from sequences of nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. The ITS sequence-derived phylogeny indicates that S. heterophyllum, endemic to Korea, is identical to S. tenue, which is known as endemic to Ussuri regions. Comparisons of sequence pairs across both spacer regions gave divergence values and revealed the identity between S. tenue and S. heterophyllum on Mt. Moonsoo. On the other hand, the ITS sequences support species delimitation of S. ternifolium, as reported recently as a new species that differs from other Sium species. The ITS sequence divergence values of 1.4 and 1.6% support species delimitation between S. serra and S. ternifolium.
Micropropagation of Withania frutescens: one way to recover reduced or extinct plant populations in the Balearic Islands

We established a rapid and inexpensive micropropagation protocol for the Solanaceae plant Withania frutescens in order to produce a large stock of plant material that can be used for conservation and research programs. This plant has an important ecological value but it has a restricted distribution in the Balearic archipelago (Mediterranean, Spain). Shoot tips and internodia were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different auxins and cytokinins. The best medium producing shoot induction, was the control MS with no growth regulators added (94 %). This is very convenient due to the associated advantage of reduction in production costs. Production of roots was best (75 %) on the MS supplemented with indol butiric acid (IBA). The combination of NAA and BAP produced the highest mortality (38 %) of explants. Withania frutescens was successfully regenerated in vitro from nodal shoot segments excised from young seedlings. Acclimatization and survival of plantlets was very high (100 %). The results of our study will allow producing a stock of plant material in short time and that can be used for conservation and research programs in order to maintain the natural diversity of plants in the small islands of the Balearic archipelago.
Exploring Dimensions of Attitudes Toward Horticultural Activities

The main purpose of this research was to explore individuals' attitudes toward horticultural activities. The research was conducted in two stages. First, open-ended interviews were used to conceptualize attitudes toward horticultural activities, and seven themes and several subthemes of attitudes were induced. Based on the results, a ques- tionnaire was then designed and a quantitative survey was conducted to identify the dimensions of attitudes toward horticultural activities and their interrelationships. Five dimensions of attitudes toward horticultural activities were extracted: increasing positive mood, improving the environment, leisure belief, improving social relationships, and escaping. These dimensions of attitudes toward horticultural activities had activity- based attributes that differed to some extent from those of general leisure. The dimension of improving the environment was particularly salient for horticultural activities. Propositions and recommendations to stimulate future research about developing a valid measurement instrument are offered.
Chlorpyrifos Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats and the Protective Role of Quercetin and Catechin

In this study, chlorpyrifos, catechin, quercetin and catechin- or quercetin+chlorpyrifos were given to Wistar rats for 4 weeks. Chlorpyrifos increased the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT); decreased glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione–S-transferase (GST) activities in heart compared to the control. In catechin- and quercetin+chlorpyrifos groups, we observed the protective effects of flavonoids on examining parameters. Light microscopic investigations revealed that chlorpyrifos induced histopathological alterations in heart. Milder histopathological changes were observed co-treated with catechin- or quercetin+chlorpyrifos. As a result, catechin and quercetin significantly reduce chlorpyrifos induced cardiotoxicity in rats, but they aren’t protect completely. Key Words: Chlorpyrifos, Flavonoids, Antioxidant Enzymes, Histopathology, Heart
The Relative Importance of Cash Flow News and Discount Rate News at Driving Stock Price Change

Which component is the main driver of stock price movement? Using vector-auto-regression-based (VAR) decomposition method, the literature finds that stock price movements are almost entirely derived by discount rate variation (DR) at the aggregate-level. Recently, extracting variations by the VAR system has been criticized. Employing implied cost of capital (ICC) approach with a sample of 809 companies over the period of 2000 to 2015, new findings demonstrate that cash flow variations (CF) are significant at aggregate-level, as well as portfolio-level. This study also finds that CF variation rises when the horizon extends from one-year ahead to fiveyear ahead. Running return decomposition at the portfolio-level shows that there are significant rising CF variations from small/large growth portfolios to small/large value portfolios. The results also show that DR demonstrates a good tracking power of the actual return for the period before 2005, but CF dominates at tracking after this period. Current research contributes to the literature by providing a fundamental explanation for the value premium.