Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A mitochondrial phylogeographic scenario for the most widespread African rodent, Mastomys natalensis

In order to evaluate the contribution of geological, environmental, and climatic changes to the spatial distribution of genetic variation of Mastomys natalensis, we analysed cytochrome b sequences from the whole distribution area of the species to infer its phylogeographic structure and historical demography. Six well-supported phylogroups, differentiated during the Pleistocene, were evidenced. No signiﬁcant correlation between genetic and geographic distances was found at the continental scale, and the geographic distributions of the observed phylogroups have resulted from extensive periods of isolation caused by the presence of putative geographic and ecological barriers. The diversiﬁcation events were probably inﬂuenced by habitat contraction/expansion cycles that may have complemented topographic barriers to induce genetic drift and lineage sorting.According to our results, we propose a scenario where climate-driven processes may have played a primary role in the differentiation among phylogroups.
Stem biomechanics, strength of attachment, and developmental plasticity of vines and lianas

This chapter compares some of the growth strategies associated with different attachment and stem mechanics. It investigates some of the functional and developmentally variable traits that contribute to their ecological success. The chapter explores how different climbing plants attach mechanically to their supports, and discusses the forces generated by leaf friction, hooks, branches, tendrils, roots, and twining stems. It further provides quantitative comparisons of the kinds of forces these structures can withstand, and the reliability of their connection with the host. The chapter discusses how attachment and adaptive variations of mechanical properties contribute to profound developmental plasticity in vines and lianas. Changes in developmental timing among vines and lianas – between juvenile self-supporting and mature non-self-supporting traits – are undoubtedly linked to other functional traits and potential trade-offs involving water provisioning, leaf surface area, photosynthesis, and growth rate.
Irradiation Inactivation of Food-Borne Microorganisms.

Gamma irradiation can be used as a method of preserving many types of foods. The process involves exposing the food to a specific dose of ionizing irradiation from, for example, 60Co for the purpose of achieving partial or complete inactivation of cells of specific pathogens or of potential spoilage microorganisms that may be naturally present on unprocessed foods. The number of food-borne bacteria recognized as being capable of causing human illness has increased in recent years. The emergence of these pathogens has given rise to increased interest in using irradiation as a preservation technique in the food industry. A review of information describing the behavior of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms upon exposure to gamma irradiation is presented.
Identification of Bmpr-1b and Bmp15 gene mutations in fat tail sheep.

Fat tail sheep (FTS) is regarded as highly prolific local sheep and have been well adapted under tropical climate of Lombok island. BMPR-1B and BMP15 genes that controll reproductive traits such as ovulation rate and litter size in different type of sheep will be studied as candidate genes for prolific traits in FTS. These genes have been reported by various investigators have different prolificacy mechanism between several breeds of sheep, and it is very likely will occur in FTS. This study was designed to understand different prolificacy mechanism that occurred among breed of sheep. One hundred and forty FTS potential for twin and triplet scattered in Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara Province were screened to identify mutation of BMPR-1B and BMP15 genes using Forced PCR-RFLP method. Furthermore, the frequency of allel and genotype caused by mutation was measured in each gene. Results of the study indicated that mutation of FecX G at BMP15 gene resulted in two alleles, namely “wild-type”(+) Allel was 111 bp and 30 bp, and mutan allel ( G ) was 141 bp with frequency of 0.675 and 0.325. The combination of allel at BMP15 gen resulted in two genotipes, namely: ++ (111 bp/111 bp) and G + (141 bp/111 bp) with frequency of 0.35 dan 0.65 in FTS. Mutation of FecB at BMPR-1B gen resulted in two allel, namely “wild-type”(+) Allel was 140 bp, and mutan allel (B) was 110 and 30 bp with frequency of 0.718 and 0.282. The combination of allel at BMPR-1B gen resulted in three genotipes, namely: BB (110 bp/110 bp), B + (110 bp/140 bp), and ++ (140 bp/140 bp), its frequency was 0.11, 0.35 and 0.54 in FTS, respectively. Key words: Mutation, BMPR-1B, BMP15, Fat Tailed, Sheep
Peto's Paradox and the Evolution of Cancer Suppression

In order to successfully build and maintain a multicellular body, somatic cells must be constrained from proliferating uncontrollably and destroying the organism. If all mammalian cells were equally susceptible to oncogenic mutations and had identical tumor suppressor mechanisms, one would expect that the risk of cancer would be proportional to the body size and lifespan of a species. This is because a greater number of cells and cell divisions over a lifetime would increase the chance of accumulating mutations that result in malignant transformation. Peto’s paradox is the clash between the theory that cancer incidence should increase with body size and lifespan, and the observation that it does not. In this thesis, I present the first comprehensive survey of empirical evidence across mammals in support of Peto’s paradox in addition to computational models that explore the numerous hypotheses that may help resolve the paradox. I provide a detailed examination of tumor suppression in African elephants (Loxodonta africana) and show that the genome contains redundant copies of the tumor suppressor gene TP53. I give evidence that these redundant copies are actively transcribed and also observe an increased apoptotic response after exposure to ionizing radiation, which may be linked to the expression of these genes. Few genomes of large, long-lived organisms are currently available, which motivated my work to provide the sequence and de novo assembly of the humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) genome. In this genome, I discovered a set of tumor suppressor genes that have evolved at an accelerated rate along the whale lineage, which is suggestive of adaptation. Additionally, I find one gene that has undergone convergent evolution between the African elephant and the humpback whale. The overarching goal of my research is to gain a better understanding of how evolution has suppressed cancer in large, long-lived organisms in the hopes of ultimately developing improved cancer prevention in humans. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Genomics & Computational Biology First Advisor Shane T. Jensen Second Advisor Carlo C. Maley
Erratum

We apologize for this error. Reference Colombo, M. G. , A. De Massis, E. Piva, C. Rossi-Lamastra, and M. Wright (2014). “Sales and Employment Changes in Entrepreneurial Ventures with Family Ownership: Empirical Evidence from High-Tech Industries,” Journal of Small Business Management 52(2), 226–245. DOI: 10.1111/jsbm.12100. Journal of Small Business Management 2014 52(4), pp. 829 doi: 10.1111/jsbm.12139
How precise can wood identification be? Wood anatomy’s role in support of the legal timber trade, especially cites

Traditional wood identification techniques using light microscopy are usually sufficient to identify a wood sample to the genus level. In some cases CITES legislation requires identification to species level, which is difficult or impossible using traditional light microscopy. This paper concentrates mainly on the identification challenges posed by CITES, particularly with ramin (Gonystylus spp.), Brazilian Rosewood (Dalbergia nigra) and Agarwood (Aquilaria and Gyrinops species). All the other CITES listed timbers and some other taxa that are traded or confused with protected species and might in the future be protected by legislation are also discussed. There are several new non-anatomical techniques being tried to make more accurate identifications and these are mentioned where appropriate.There is a mismatch between legislation and the natural world, and the limitations of the identification process need to be better appreciated by enquirers, especially in relation to CITES enquiries, since species and genus concepts vary among biologists, and can be ambiguous.
Courtship Behavior, Fertilization of Eggs, and Rearing in Captivity of the Semirechensk Salamander Ranodon sibiricus Kessler (Amphibia, Caudata)

Courtship behavior of Semirechensk salamander, Ranodon sibiricus , in captivity was observed. Fertilization of eggs of this species of amphibian is of a typical hynobiid nature. Some details of courtship behavior in Ranodon sibiricus and Hynobius retardatus are compared and discussed.
Will among‐population variation in seed traits improve the chance of species persistence under climate change?

Aim Seed traits related to recruitment have direct relevance for plant fitness and persistence. Trait variation in time and among populations may increase species resilience and ultimately reduce the risk of extinction. However, patterns of among-population variation in critical recruitment traits remain poorly known and are often disregarded when considering extinction risk under future climates. Location Global. Methods In this paper we review and synthesize current knowledge about among-population variation in physiological and morphological traits related to plant recruitment. We outline the consequences of that variation for species persistence under climate change, and discuss the implications for conservation, management and restoration. Results The evaluated studies provide compelling evidence that among-population variation in traits underpinning seedling emergence, growth and establishment is widespread. Contrary to expectations, environmental gradients do not appear to be reliable predictors of variation among populations and responses are often individualistic. Likewise, well-established cross-species patterns are not consistently reflected among populations within a species. As the pattern of this variation is unpredictable, we cannot make simple generalizations about how this variation is allocated across geographic ranges or the extent of environmental versus fixed genetic differences. Nor do these patterns clearly elucidate the potential for this variation to mitigate negative effects of climate change. Main conclusions If we ignore among-population variation in seed traits, or assume it will follow simple environmental clines, we do so at our own peril. The consequences of such an approach are likely to include biased forecasts of future range dynamics, hindering identification of the genetic material most appropriate for conservation, restoration and management. Further research that integrates ecology and emerging evolutionary genetic techniques to identify the distribution of seed traits within foundation species and the mechanisms driving them is urgently required to guide the management and maintenance of systems in the face of rapidly changing climates.
In vitro and in vivo Drug Targeting using Biotinylated Immunoliposomes

The aim of my thesis was the optimization, characterization and application of a new, innovative drug carrier system which can be used to target pharmaceuticals to diseased tissues and organs. In the present study, a non-covalent biotin-streptavidin coupling procedure for the preparation of pegylated immunoliposomes is presented which simplifies the attachment of targeting vectors to sterically stabilized liposomes. The OX26 monoclonal antibody against the rat transferrin receptor was used as a targeting vector. Immunostaining experiments with the OX26 monoclonal antibody followed by fluorescent confocal microscopy revealed immunofluorescence labeling of the transferrin receptor on muscle and on glioma cells. Uptake experiments with these cells demonstrated cellular uptake and accumulation of small molecules (daunomycin, fluorescent probes) or macromolecules such as fluorescent oligonucleotides, within an intracellular compartment. Cellular uptake of liposomal daunomycin by multidrug-resistant cells was dose- and time-dependent and was associated with a clear pharmacological (i.e. cytotoxic) effect. Cytotoxic effects of liposomal formulations of daunomycin, in contrast to the free drug, were apparent only after prolonged incubation periods being indicative of a slow intracellular unpacking and release of liposomal daunomycin. With respect to expression plasmids (i.e. gene targeting), only marginal levels of gene expression were observed in vitro. Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution studies in the rat revealed a substantially increased plasma half-live of liposomal drug compared to free drug. Brain accumulation of daunomycin in OX26-immunoliposomes occurred in higher levels as compared to brain uptake of free daunomycin or daunomycin incorporated within pegylated liposomes or unspecific IgG2a isotype control immunoliposomes. Such OX26-mediated effects were not observed in other tissues such as spleen, liver, muscle or kidney. Our experiments indicate that immunoliposomes can be used to target small drug molecules as well as macromolecules, such as oligonucleotides and expression plasmids, to cells and tissues. These findings demonstrate that immunoliposomes are a versatile and promising tool for future drug development in regard to both, galenic and therapeutical research. For clinical administrations, a better understanding of cellular uptake and release mechanisms are needed.
Women in the C-Suite: Do They Have the Globe Enthralled?

Women have historically showed outstanding capability in leadership roles in varying societal spheres and periods across the globe. Although grossly underrepresented in leadership, those who take up the positions bring to the exercise of leadership an arsenal of strengths, which increasingly, are meant to benefit the entities they lead on local, national, and global levels. In the run-up to the Fourth World Women Conference held in Beijing in 1995, there was much hype about the issues of equity, equality and women representation. During the conference, the concepts of equity and equality, in relation to gender were expansively discussed. While the conference ultimately called for equal opportunities and equal representation, an examination of the several sectors in different countries revealed that the percentage of women in the C-Suite is still very low. Can one say that women are discriminated against or do they discriminate themselves? Do they get technically disqualified because they are women? This analysis focuses on the status of women leadership in politics, education, health and religion. While these are not the only sectors where women hardly get to the top management, they mirror the status quo in the other sectors. The few women at the top also face certain challenges, including the fact that they cannot make important decisions concerning their sectors without consultation. Those who do so are considered to be acting like ‘men’. Although affirmative action is adhered to in many sectors, in most cases, women do not aggressively seek for leadership positions.
Analysis of gene- and protein expression in an Alzheimer model of Drosophila melanogaster

Alzheimer’s disease is a common and very costly disease in today’s society. The hallmarks of the disease are the formation of two proteinaggregates, amyloid plaques containing Aβ-peptides and neurofibrillary tangles containing hyperphosphorylated tau protein. The formation ofneurofibrillary tangles is thought to be promoted by amyloid formation and is why the cellular events surrounding the formation and interactionsof the Aβ-peptide is a prime target for Alzheimer’s research. In this thesis, the gene of the highly aggregation prone form of Aβ-peptide, the Aβ1-42, has been inserted in a Drosophila melanogaster to promote expression in the central nervous system through the use of the Gal4-UAS system.Gene expression analysis was done using a RNA purification kit, translating the RNA into cDNA using RT-PCR and the levels were analyzed usingquantitative real-time PCR. For protein expression analysis the immunological techniques of dot blot and western blot were used combined withan immunoprecipitation step using magnetic beads. A fibrillation experiment was also performed to look into the potential seeding effect onamyloid formation from the Aβ1-42 expressing Drosophila using fluorescence spectroscopy.The aim for this thesis was to look into expression of the Aβ1-42 gene and the impact of ageing on expression levels. Another aim was to try andseparate and detect soluble Aβ-peptide species from tissue homogenates of Drosophila.No amplification could be detected in the quantitative real-time PCR, most likely due to concentration issues of the reaction components. For thisreason gene expression could never be quantified nor could the effect of ageing and gene expression be looked into. Insoluble aggregates but nosoluble Aβ-peptide species could be detected or separated from the tissue of the Drosophila. No seeding effect on the amyloid formation could bestatistically determined by the fibrillation experiment, but interesting quenching effects on the total quantum yield of Aβ fibrils in the presence ofbrain homogenates were noted.
“The Hardest Thing to Turn From”: The Effects of Service-Learning on Preparing Urban Educators

In this article, the author describes her use of service-learning as a pedagogical strategy for developing preservice students' dispositions for urban teaching. Twenty-one students were enrolled in a multicultural education course with a service-learning requirement. This was the students' first teacher education course in a two-year, urban-focused strand of the university's larger teacher education program. Students engaged in tutoring in local urban elementary and high schools. They also conducted observations, interviews, and worked in a community center. The author describes how the action-reflection process differed for students from urban home and schooling backgrounds and those from suburban home and schooling backgrounds. She posits that the service-learning experience facilitated the reflection process in students that led them to be more social justice-oriented in their thoughts about urban teaching. The author also argues that the experience enhanced their commitment to and motivations for urban teaching. Of particular focus is the effect the service-learning had on preservice students of color who were the racial majority in this cohort. The author also discusses some of the challenges faced as a teacher educator attempting to be more holistic in her teaching through the use of service-learning and implications for urban teacher education courses and program design.
The role of innate and adaptive IL-17 producing cells in chemical allergy

The Interleukin (IL)-17 cytokine family, expressed by T helper (Th)17 cells and ? T cells, plays pivotal roles in adaptive immune responses. They have been implicated in autoimmune and allergic diseases as well having roles in bacterial and fungal clearance. Importantly, IL-17 producing ? T cells have been shown to be critical for the development of adaptive Th17 responses in the murine model of multiple sclerosis, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Interestingly, natural ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) are known to influence the development of Th17 cells. It has been shown previously that prolonged topical exposure of mice to the contact allergen 2-4 dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) or to the respiratory sensitiser trimellitic anhydride (TMA) causes the preferential development of a preferential T helper (Th)1 or Th2 response, respectively. The presence of the novel IL-17 family cytokines and their cellular source was investigated following both single and prolonged exposure to allergen.Exposure only to the contact allergen DNCB resulted in up-regulation of the expression of IL-17 by dermal ? T cells. It was shown also that topical application of a range of contact allergens and of the respiratory allergen TMA resulted in IL-17 expression by ? T cells in the lymph node draining the site of exposure. However, differential kinetics were observed between the two classes of allergens. Exposure to the contact allergens resulted in rapid expression of IL-17 within 6-16 h, whereas the respiratory allergen displayed considerably delayed kinetics, with maximal levels detected 48 h post exposure. Treatment with DNCB only was shown to be associated with the development of Th17 cells following prolonged exposure to chemical allergen. Thus DNCB provoked a Tc1/Th1/Th17 profile, in contrast prolonged exposure to TMA resulted in a very selective Th2 cytokine pattern. The influence of ? T cells on polarised responses to chemical allergens was investigated also using ? T cell knockout mice; here the adaptive Th17 response induced by DNCB was completely abrogated. These data demonstrate that the absence of IL-17 production by ? T cells during the early innate immune response affects the subsequent adaptive Th17 response stimulated by chemical contact allergens.Finally, the importance of the affinity of the AhR for endogenous ligands during in vitro Th17 polarisation was assessed. Using three strains of mice with differential AhR affinities the contribution of ligation of these receptors in Th17 cell development was investigated. In all three strains AhR ligation was required for optimal polarisation of Th17 cells, even in strains that are reported to express a low affinity receptor. These data suggest that across a range of receptor affinities, including low affinity receptors analogous to that of humans, endogenous AhR ligands may play a major role in driving Th17 cell differentiation, regardless of receptor phenotype.
Enzymatic methods for marine by-products recovery

Publisher Summary Today, with the introduction of refined enzyme technologies, the potential for taking advantage of value added molecules already present in fish and invertebrate by-products is very high. Employing enzymatic methods for protein or lipid recovery in fish or shellfish processing as an alternative to mechanical or chemical treatments, which often damage the products and reduce product recovery, renders it possible to produce a large and diversified range of products for different applications. Among products of interest are enzymes, lipids, chitin and chitosan, calcium, nucleic acid, pigments, and biologically active peptides from fish protein hydrolysates. Usually, the type of enzyme that is employed for extracting or solubilizing by-products may be directly associated with the nature of the molecules to be extracted. For example, proteases are utilized for the solubilization of the protein part of by-products, but in recent works, proteases were also used to enhance lipid extraction from fish tissues. This chapter discusses the recent literature on the possibilities of processes involving enzymatic biotransformation of fisheries and aquaculture by-products.