Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A α-Opiate Receptor in 7315c Tumor Tissue Mediates Inhibition of Immunoreactive Prolactin Release and Adenylate Cyclase Activity

Cells of the 7315c tumor released immunoreactive PRL (IR-PRL). Cholera toxin enhanced this release. Morphine and other opiate agonists inhibited IR-PRL release from, both untreated and cholera toxin-treated tumor cells. The opiate-induced inhibition of IR-PRL release was concentration dependent and naloxone sensitive. Cholera toxin also enhanced the adenylate cyclase activity of 7315c tumor tissue. Opiates inhibited enzyme activity in both untreated and cholera toxintreated 7315c tissue in a concentration-dependent and naloxonesensitive manner. FK 33824 was more potent than [D-Ala2,D-Leu6] enkephalin in inhibiting IR-PRL release and adenylate cyclase activity. In cholera toxin-treated 7315c tumor tissue, GTP was required for opiate-induced inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity. Nonhydrolyzable analogs of GTP inhibited toxin-stimulated cyclase activity in the absence of an opiate. These results suggest that the 7315c tumor possesses a μ-opiate receptor; stimulation of this receptor inhibits both IR-PRL .
Nutrient Loaded Biochar Doubled Biomass Production in Juvenile Maize Plants (Zea mays L.)

Biochars have long been associated with elevating plant productivity. An increasing number of studies, however, report that char application might also impair plant nutrient availability and reduce yields. In particular, char accompanying compounds as well as a hypothesized immobilization of nitrogen have been identified as playing a significant role in possibly diminishing plant productivity following char application. Herein, we tested the fertilizing effects of modified biochars in order to derive knowledge required to develop tailor-made chars, which predictably affect plant nutrition. Slow-pyrolysis maize cob biochar was modified by washing with either ethanol or hydrochloric acid to remove ash and organic compounds or by loading it with nutrient-rich residues in the form of digestate from the bioenergy sector. Maize plants were grown for 35 days on biochar-amended sand. We analyzed both substrate properties (pH, total carbon, and nitrogen, available magnesium and potassium) and plant functional traits (biomass, leaf area, root to shoot ratio, specific leaf area). Our results suggest that total plant biomass production remained unaffected by the application of biochar and its washed forms. Contrastingly, nutrient-loaded biochar induced a significant increase in productivity at similar nutrient levels due to improved plant nutrient uptake. Further research is required to understand the role of biochar modifications that facilitated improvements in plant productivity.
Pathogenicity and Immune Responses in Specific-Pathogen-Free Chickens During Fowl Adenovirus Serotype 4 Infection

SUMMARY. Hydropericardium-hepatitis syndrome, a recently emerged disease of chickens, is caused by some strains of fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4). However, the relationship between the immune response and cytokine expression during FAdV-4 infection is largely unknown. In this study, our data showed that all chickens exhibited typical clinical signs and lesions and that the viral load was significantly increased in both the liver and thymus following FAdV-4 infection. We also found that the appearance of tissue lesions in the liver and thymus was consistent with the viral copy numbers, indicating that virus replication in systemic organs closely correlated with disease progression. In addition, the effects of FAdV-4 infection on the transcription of some avian cytokines were studied in vivo. In general, expression of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-2 and interferon (IFN)-α and IFN-β in the liver and thymus was strongly upregulated. Interestingly, the expression of IL-2 was the most highly upregulated. Expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-10, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and TGF-β2, were also upregulated. Moreover, we investigated both the humoral and cellular immune responses in chickens infected with FAdV-4. Compared to those in the noninfected chickens, the antibody levels in chickens infected with FAdV-4 were significantly increased within 30 days postinfection. In addition, the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ T cells was decreased in FAdV-4-infected chickens. Taken together, these findings increase our understanding of the pathogenesis of FAdV-4 in chickens and provide a foundation for additional pathogenesis studies.
Inter-Process Communication (IPC) in Distributed Environments: An Investigation and Performance Analysis of Some Middleware Technologies

— Nowadays with improvement in computer science, distributed systems have attracted remarkable attention and increasingly become an indispensable factor in our life. Massive-scale data processing, weather forecasting, industrial control systems, medical science, multi-tire architectures in enterprise applications, and aerospace to name but a few are the cases in point that distributed systems play a notable role. Inter-Process Communication or in a short form, IPC is specified as the heart of all distributed systems, therefore they are not formed without IPC. Numerous methods concerning IPC have been proposed so far that are utilized in diverse circumstances. According to the physical location of communication processes in applications, IPC could be established among either multiple processes on the same computer or several computers across a network. From the communication pattern’s perspective, these IPCs can be classified into two broad groups namely, shared memory and message passing. Although, it is not true to say when processes are performed on the same computer definitely employ shared memory to communicate if processes are executed on the different systems they inevitably communicate through message passing. By way of illustration, pipes use message passing patterns to make a connection between various processes but all of the processes are carried out on the same system. The aim of this research is to depict a categorization of the some IPC methods, give a brief description of them, and assess their performance in terms of transferring rate by sending multiple files in different sizes between a client and server. As we expected, socket as the basic IPC, since it
Cytotoxic effect of nanoparticles synthesized from Salvia officinalis L. and Ricinus communis aqueous extracts against vero cell line and evaluation of their antioxidant activities

The development of safe carriers for the use of plant extracts in industrial and health fields constitute a matter of serious concern. The development of plant derived nanoparticles may help to overcome such barriers. However, the major concern is still the safety of these carriers. The present study describes the synthesis of nanoparticles derived from Salvia officinalis L. and Ricinus communis and the evaluation of their cytotoxic and antioxidant effects. It is shown in this study that the aqueous extracts of S. officinalis L . and R. communis have the potentials to reduce silver nitrate ions to silver nanoparticles. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were analyzed by spectrophotometer and granulometric tests. The biological activities of these extracts and nanoparticles were carried out. S. officinalis L . leaf extract had the strongest antioxidant activity, followed by R. communis l eaf and fruit extracts. Altogether, the synthesized nanoparticles were safe and may serve as antioxidant products in many fields. Key words : Plant material, biosynthesis of nanoparticle, cytotoxicity, cell culture, free radicals.
Targeting Item–level Nuances Leads to Small but Robust Improvements in Personality Prediction from Digital Footprints

In the past decade, researchers have demonstrated that personality can be accurately predicted from digital footprint data, including Facebook likes, tweets, blog posts, pictures, and transaction records. Such computer–based predictions from digital footprints can complement—and in some circumstances even replace—traditional self–report measures, which suffer from well–known response biases and are difficult to scale. However, these previous studies have focused on the prediction of aggregate trait scores (i.e. a person's extroversion score), which may obscure prediction–relevant information at theoretical levels of the personality hierarchy beneath the Big 5 traits. Specifically, new research has demonstrated that personality may be better represented by so–called personality nuances—item–level representations of personality—and that utilizing these nuances can improve predictive performance. The present work examines the hypothesis that personality predictions from digital footprint data can be improved by first predicting personality nuances and subsequently aggregating to scores, rather than predicting trait scores outright. To examine this hypothesis, we employed least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and random forest models to predict both items and traits using out–of–sample cross–validation. In nine out of 10 cases across the two modelling approaches, nuance–based models improved the prediction of personality over the trait–based approaches to a small, but meaningful degree (4.25% or 1.69% on average, depending on method). Implications for personality prediction and personality nuances are discussed. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology
Cobalt and molybdenum stimulate compounds of primary metabolism, nitrogen forms, and photosynthetic pigments in peanut plants (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cobalt (Co) and molybdenum (Mo) doses in the treatment of seeds on the biosynthesis of nitrogen compounds, photosynthetic pigments, sugars, and production of peanut plants. The doses of Co and Mo used were 0, 2, 3, and 4 mL kg−1 seed, which were applied immediately before sowing. Seeds treated with Co and Mo at a dose of 4 mL kg−1 yielded peanut plants with higher concentrations of photosynthetic pigments, carotenoids, and sucrose in leaves. Application of Co and Mo doses also increased biological nitrogen fixation by increasing the concentration of allantoic acid, nitrate, ammonia, and amino acids in leaves. The concentration of total amino acids corresponded to most of the nitrogen compounds (on average 50%), followed by the concentrations of nitrate (35%), ammonia (11%), allantoic acid (7%), and allantoin (0.2%). Application of 4 mL kg−1 increased the production of total amino acids compared with the control treatment. Pod yield was not affected by the Co and Mo doses; however, treatment of peanut seeds with 4 mL kg−1 was the most viable alternative for increased production of primary metabolism compounds, nitrogen forms, and photosynthetic pigments in peanut plants. This study provides important information regarding the role of Co and Mo in the biological nitrogen fixation of peanut plants. Future experiments should be conducted using a dose of 4 mL kg−1 with different genotypes to verify the potential for increasing peanut yield.
Denitrification, anammox and nitrate reduction in sediments of the southern Great Barrier Reef lagoon

We provide the first reported estimates of anammox activity in tropical continental shelf sediments (southern section of the Great Barrier Reef lagoon; GBRL). The measured contri- bution of anammox to total N2 production was up to 70% but restricted to only 1 of the 4 (2 inshore and 2 offshore) sites assayed. Sediment characteristics (contents of total organic carbon (TOC) and manganese (Mn), C:N ratio) at this site appeared to favour anammox activity and the estimated maximum rate was 4.9 µmol m �2 h �1 . Anammox bacteria may be a significant contributor to N2 pro- duction along the coastal zone of the GBRL. The availability of labile (low C:N) TOC seemed to drive denitrification to completion in the offshore sediments. However, rates of NO3 � reduction to NH4 + at the offshore sites were comparable to or higher than denitrification rates. It was unclear whether dissimilatory or assimilatory processes were responsible for the observed reduction of NO3 � to NH4 + at the offshore sites. At the 2 inshore sites, NO3 � reduction to NH4 + was a larger sink for NO3 � than denitrification. Anammox does exist in the tropical continental shelf sediments of the GBRL and should be studied further to determine its role in larger scale N cycling. The roles of assimilatory and dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium also need to be assessed within the GBRL.
Relationship satisfaction trajectories among low-income ethnic minority couples before and after a relationship education intervention

This study examined relationship satisfaction trajectories of low-income ethnic minority couples from a preintervention assessment to the fifth assessment at 120 days after enrollment in the relationship education intervention. Analysis included covariates of employment status, income, years of education, and length of relationship in the trajectories. The researchers drew the 5 waves of data from 728 couples who participated in a large, 4-year, federally funded project—Project TOGETHER (To Offer Great Education That Harvests Enduring Relationships). The results of the dyadic latent growth curve modeling revealed the linearity of growth in relationship satisfaction among couples; specifically, both male and female partners having significant positive growth of relationship satisfaction from intake through 120-day post-RE intervention. Interestingly, when we analyzed distressed and nondistressed couples separately, growth trajectories for both groups were not significant. The researchers present a discussion of implications for policy and practice.
Pharmacokinetics of [14C]genistein in the rat: gender-related differences, potential mechanisms of biological action, and implications for human health.

Mass balance, plasma pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and metabolism of [(14)C]genistein were investigated in male and female rats (n = 5) following an oral dose of [(14)C]genistein (4 mg kg(-1)) to determine potential sites and mechanisms of biological action. Mean total excretion of radioactivity in urine and feces for both sexes was 66 and 33% of the dose respectively at 166 h after administration. Mean and maximal concentrations of radioactivity in plasma were significantly (p < 0.02) higher in male than female rats, with half-lives of 12.4 and 8.5 h, respectively. The concentration of radioactivity was significantly (p < 0.002) higher in liver from females than males and in reproductive (vagina, uterus, ovary, and prostate) compared with other peripheral organs. Analysis of plasma extracts by radio-HPLC-MS indicated that the predominant metabolites were genistein glucuronides, 4-hydroxyphenyl-2-propionic acid, and trace amounts of parent compound (<5%). Radioactive residues in uterus and prostate were predominantly parent compound and 4-hydroxyphenyl-2-propionic acid, respectively. Significantly (p < 0. 05) increased retention of [(14)C]genistein or metabolites was associated with reproductive organs, such as vagina, uterus, ovary, and prostate, likely to contain relatively high concentrations of estrogen receptors or binding proteins compared with other peripheral tissues. Factors liable to influence bioavailability of biologically active genistein or metabolites, such as dietary intake, warrant further investigation to determine the risks or benefits for different consumer groups of phytoestrogen-containing foods.
A Survey of Time Series Data Visualization Research

Time series data visualization integrates data analysis and mining, computer graphics, interaction design and other technologies and methods. This paper first analyzes the characteristics of time series data, including time and data attributes. Secondly, two kinds of visualization methods are summarized: one is the visualization method of time attribute, including spiral chart, calendar view, theme river view and dynamic view; the other is the visualization method of high dimensional time series data, which mainly summarizes four kinds of parallel coordinate methods. And the visual interaction design method is analyzed. Finally, the visualization of time series data is summarized and prospected.
What Is a Pseudobulb? Toward a Quantitative Definition

Premise of research. Although the term “pseudobulb” has been used in the literature on Orchidaceae for almost two centuries, no definition establishes unambiguous criteria to distinguish such a succulent shoot from a “normal” stem. It is currently impossible to decide whether variation is continuous rather than categorical. Methodology. We studied three morphological characteristics (succulence index, deviation from spherical shape, and proportion of lignified tissue in cross sections) in stems of 89 orchid species. Pivotal results. Shape as such did not allow us to separate groups: variation was continuous in our data set. However, a cluster analysis of all three traits separated species with normal stems from those with thickened stems. Within the latter group, two subgroups emerged: a relatively homogeneous subgroup of species with rather globose, mostly heteroblastic pseudobulbs and a morphologically and anatomically much more diverse second subgroup of species with homoblastic stems. A second part of the study assessed ontogenetic changes in stem shape. In the majority of cases, stem shape changed substantially from sometimes almost spherical in small juveniles to elongated in larger individuals. This pattern, although much more pronounced in species with normal stems, was also found in certain species with pseudobulbs. While water storage capacity in the smallest plants is maximized relative to the transpiring surface, the increased absolute water storage capacity of larger plants relaxes the selective pressure to depart more and more from a spherical shape. Conclusions. Although some ambiguity remains, the results of our quantitative approach confirm the usefulness of the pseudobulb concept. However, we identify a large, quite heterogeneous group of species with intermediate traits between those of normal stems and pseudobulbs.
Impacts of Roads and Corridors on Abundance and Movement of Small Mammals on the Llano Estacado of Texas

Abstract On the Llano Estacado of Texas, roads and agricultural development have divided once continuous prairie into a patchwork of habitats that differ in size and use. In an agricultural matrix, populations of small mammals were studied to assess effects of roads and corridors on movement and dispersal. During 52,416 trap nights and by tracking mammals dusted with fluorescent powder, we investigated frequency that animals crossed roads and irrigated crop circles. Sites bisected by wide roads with corridors had greater richness; whereas, sites divided by narrow roads with corridors had a significantly greater abundance of hispid cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus). Based on our studies using powder-tracking, only reproductively active males of North American deermice (Peromyscus maniculatus) and western harvest mice (Reithrodontomys megalotis) moved significantly more along roads than away from or toward roads. Our results suggest that unfarmed crop corners are valuable habitat for wildlife; small mammals present may be impacted differentially by type of roadways that are present.
Seasonal variation in the diet of stoats in a breeding colony of Hutton's shearwaters

Abstract The diet of stoats (Mustela erminea) was studied in the Kowhai valley colony of Hutton's shearwaters (Puffinus huttoni). Remains of Hutton's shearwaters were found in 785 of 788 scats examined. Scats contained remains of eggs, chicks, near fledging age chicks and adult shearwaters, as well as the remains of skinks (Oligosoma sp.) and weta (Deinacrida sp.). There was seasonal variation in the frequency of occurrence of all major prey items. Stoats switched from taking predominantly adults during the pre‐egg and incubation periods, to taking almost exclusively chicks during the chick‐rearing period. The impact of stoats on Hutton's shearwaters may as a consequence of this prey switch be reduced, because the population is likely to be more affected by the loss of adults rather than chicks. Stoats continued to feed upon shearwaters, even after all birds had left the colony. Remains of mice (Mus musculus) and hares (Lepus europaeus) were infrequently found in scats, although the occurrence of these along with the occurrence of skinks and weta increased after all live shearwaters had departed. The results suggest that stoat numbers may be limited by the availability of over‐winter prey within the colony.
Modification of Diamond Crystal Luminescence Parameters Using Luminophore-Containing Emulsions

Based on luminophore combination being close to diamond in luminescence parameters, water-organic emulsions were synthesized that modified spectral-kinetic characteristics of low-luminescent diamond crystals. The combination of luminophores was used, including an organic luminophore, anthracene, and inorganic luminophore, K-35, the spectral and kinetic characteristics of which make it possible to achieve the required luminescence values of diamonds and ensure their maximum extraction in existing diamond-containing kimberlite X-ray separation process flows. Non-polar hydrocarbons were experimentally substantiated as an organic medium for the luminophores. Mathematical processing of the obtained results was performed and relationships between the composition of the luminophore combination and kinetic characteristics of the luminescent response were determined.
Combination treatment of gemcitabine and sorafenib exerts a synergistic inhibitory effect on non-small cell lung cancer in vitro and in vivo via the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition process

Standard chemotherapy is commonly used in clinical practice for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, its therapeutic efficacy remains low. Combination therapy for cancer treatment has attracted attention in recent years. The present study aimed to investigate the antitumor effect of the combination treatment with gemcitabine and sorafenib on NSCLC in vitro and in vivo, and to determine its underlying molecular mechanisms. The anti-NSCLC effects of combination therapy were analyzed by flow cytometry analysis, MTT, western blotting, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, wound healing and Transwell invasion assays. A549 cells subjected to combination treatment with gemcitabine and sorafenib demonstrated a more irregular cellular morphology and lower cell viability compared with the monotherapy groups. Combination of gemcitabine and sorafenib significantly induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in A549 cells. Additionally, combination therapy was demonstrated to restrain the migration and invasion of tumor cells by suppressing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of A549 cells. In vivo analyses confirmed that co-treatment with gemcitabine and sorafenib decreased NSCLC tumor growth and tumor weight in nude mice. Taken together, the results of the present study suggested that combination treatment with gemcitabine and sorafenib exerted a synergistic inhibitory effect on NSCLC in vitro and in vivo via the EMT process.