Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Anticoccidial effects of acetic acid on performance and pathogenic parameters in broiler chickens challenged with Eimeria tenella

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the anticoccidial effect of the different concentrations of the acetic acid in the broiler chickens in comparison with the amprolium anticoccidial. A total of 198 chicks were placed 11 per pen with three pens per treatment. The different concentrations (1%, 2% and 3%) of acetic acid and amproilum (at the dose rate of 125ppm) were given to the experimental groups in drinking water from 10-19th days of age. One group was kept as infected non medicated control and one as non infected non medicated control. All the groups were inoculated orally with 75,000 sporulated oocysts at the 12th day of age except non infected non medicated control. Anticoccidial effect was evaluated on the basis of performance (weight gain, feed conversion ratio) and pathogenic (oocyst score, lesion score and mortality %age) parameters. Among acetic acid medicated groups, the maximum anticoccidial effect was seen in the group medicated with 3% acetic acid followed by 2% and 1% acetic acid medicated groups. Amprolium and 3% acetic acid were almost equivalent in suppressing the negative performance and pathogenic effects associated with coccidiosis (Eimeria tenella) challenge. In summary, acetic acid has the potential to be used as alternative to chemotherapeutic drugs for Eimeria tenella control. Concentration-dependent anticoccidial effect of acetic acid suggests that further studies should be carried out to determine the possible maximum safe levels of acetic acid with least toxic effects to be used as anticoccidial.
In-Season Applications of Glyphosate for Control of Redvine (Brunnichia ovata) in Glyphosate-Resistant Soybean1

An experiment was initiated at two sites in 1998 near Crowder, MS, to evaluate the effect of in-season applications of glyphosate on redvine populations in glyphosate-resistant soybean. In the year of application, most treatments containing multiple in-season applications of glyphosate reduced redvine populations. However, at 16 mo after treatment (October 1999), 0.63 kg ai/ha paraquat preplant followed by sequential postemergence applications of glyphosate at 1.1 and 2.2 kg ai/ ha reduced redvine stems by 45% compared with the untreated check. Redvine control with this treatment also was comparable with 2.2 kg ai/ha dicamba preharvest. The same results were observed at 12 and 14 mo after application with many treatments containing sequential applications of glyphosate, but glyphosate at 1.1 and 2.2 kg ai/ha was the only in-season treatment to maintain redvine suppression during the entire growing season the year after herbicide application. However, a number of treatments delayed redvine reinfestation; thus, soybean yield was improved over the untreated check with all treatments from the previous year containing in-season applications of glyphosate, except for 0.84 kg/ha followed by 0.56 kg/ha. Increasing rates of in-season glyphosate applications to 1.1 followed by 2.2 kg/ha will adequately suppress redvine populations in glyphosate-resistant soybean, controlling annual weeds in the process. Nomenclature: Redvine, Brunnichia ovata (Walt.) Shinners #3 BRVCI; soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr. ‘Asgrow 4701’, ‘Delta & Pine Land 5644’. Additional index words: Perennial weeds, glyphosate. Abbreviations: POST, postemergence.
Cellular interaction of the smut fungus Ustacystis waldsteiniae

The cellular interaction between the smut fungus Ustacystis waldsteiniae and its host Waldsteinia geoides was analyzed by serial-section electron microscopy using chemically fixed and high-pressure frozen - freeze-substituted samples. After penetration, each haustorium extends a short distance into the host cell where it often forms up to three short lobes. The haustorium is wholly ensheathed by a prominent matrix. The matrix is a complex structure, differing significantly from that known of other fungal plant parasites: it is filled with amorphous, electron-opaque material in which membrane-bounded, coralloid vesicles are embedded. During the contact phase of the hypha with the host cell wall, vesicles with electron-opaque contents accumulate in the contact area of the hypha where they appear to fuse with the fungal plasma membrane and extrude their contents. Subsequently, the host cell wall increases in electron opacity and matrix material becomes deposited between host plasma membrane and host cell wall exactly at the ends of the altered areas in the host cell wall. The coralloid vesicles within the matrix, however, are of host origin: exocytosis of Golgi products into tht;: matrix results in the formation of coralloid vesicular buds in the host plasma membrane. Subsequently, the buds seem to detach from the host plasma membrane to flow as coralloid vesicles into the matrix. Matrix development continues during penetration and after penetration at the haustorial tips. After host wall penetration, the fungal cell wall comes in contact with the matrix. The fungal component of the matrix may play a key role in the inducement of these transfer cell-like compartments in host cells responding to infection.
SSU rRNA gene variation resolves population heterogeneity and ecophysiological differentiation within a morphospecies (Stramenopiles, Chrysophyceae)

The objective of this study was to analyze the extent of ecophysiological and molecular homogeneity, or heterogeneity, of distinct protist populations and to test for correlations between molecular distance and ecophysiological adaptation in a widespread and ubiquitous protistan taxon. We selected heterotrophic nanoflagellates of the Spumella morphotype as a model organism, because these flagellates are widespread and among the dominant bacterivores in many microbial communities. We investigated the molecular microdiversity and the ecophysiological tolerances for a total of 13 strains originating from two freshwater samples. We further investigated the affiliation of different ecotypes with distinct small subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (SSU rRNA) genotypes, or molecular operational taxonomic units. These regional population studies were further compared to the molecular and ecophysiological diversity of 28 strains originating from remote sampling sites. None of the investigated populations are homogenous, but are rather heterogeneously composed of different ecotypes and genotypes, possibly corresponding to cryptic species. This population heterogeneity may partly explain the deviations between studies on single strains and populations in both laboratory and field studies. The molecular distance between the strains was correlated with the salinity and temperature adaptation of the respective strains, contradicting the assumption that SSU rRNA variation reflects accumulated neutral mutations. Independent of whether this correlation reflects adaptation above the (biological) species level or variation between asexually reproducing lineages, we demonstrate the unsuitability of the current classification system (species concept) for the investigated organisms, at least with respect to ecological and ecophysiological investigations.
On the Evolution of Interactions between Marine Mesoherbivores and Algae

Abstract It is suggested that the evolution of marine mesoherbivores is influenced by the effect that these animals have on the host algae, the extent of food limitation and the ultimate factors controlling diet and habitat selection. Two contrasting models are proposed to explain the evolution of mesoherbivores: coevolution and sequential evolution. From the analysis of the available information on the biology and ecology of mesoherbivores it is obvious that: (i) no generalization can be made on the impact of mesoherbivores on the host algae, (ii) food limitation in mesoherbivores may be a common event, operating through diffuse competition, (iii) mesoherbivores have the potentiality to locate and colonize any host alga present in the habitat and, (iv) host selection, and possibly diet, is subordinate to habitat selection. Considering these results altogether, it follows that we cannot support or reject either of the two proposed models. Some suggestions are made for future research that might fill in the gaps in our knowledge of the biology and ecology of mesoherbivores.
Effects of a Severe Drought on the Population Biology of a Tropical Hummingbird

At Finca La Selva, in the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica, the Long-tailed Hermit (Phaethornis superciliosus) has a long breeding season (December or January through August or September) during which flowers are abundant, followed by a severe but pre- dictable season of flower scarcity in late October-November, during which most of the annual mortality normally occurs. In 1973, the third of a 4-yr population study of marked lek males, an unusual drought caused a severe flower shortage at the height of the breeding season. During the latter part of the breeding season lek activity of males was reduced, successful breeding by females was drastically curtailed, and masses of both sexes dropped to levels lower than those of the lean season. Interrupted molt, an indicator of energy stress normally seen only in a minority of breeding females, was observed in 25% of adult males, and 50% of females, in 1973. Survivorship of lek males through the breeding season dropped from 90% in normal years to -60%, and the total lek population at the start of the 1974 breeding season was one-third lower than before the drought in 1973; the cohort of yearling males was most strongly affected. Recovery of numbers and age structure of the lek male population to pre- 1973 levels required 3-4 yr. Jolly-Seber analyses showed close agreement with survivorship as determined by direct observation (possible because of the lek social system), and permitted estimation of other parameters of interest: populations of marked and unmarked males, probability of recapture of marked males, and recruitment. The average annual survivorship of male P. superciliosus (in normal years) is near the mean value reported for a series of tropical species. A simple model of the reproductive output of female P. superciliosus, assuming no sexual differences in survivorship, suggests that a female breeding only in the prime breeding season (roughly February-July, when over 80% of the fledglings are normally produced) will no more than replace herself in the population; breeding throughout 8-9 mo will permit her to increase her reproductive output by up to 10%, which agrees well with the 3 + yr required by the (male) population to recover from the drought. Possible implications of these findings for tropical bird demography and conservation are discussed.
Effect of lactic acid and irradiation on the shelf stability characteristics of hurdle processed chicken legs.

Hurdle processed chicken legs were subjected for irradiation at 1 and 2 KGy dosage levels after treatment with lactic acid (1 and 2%) to study the effect of irradiation and lactic acid on the shelf stability of the product. The products initially and during storage at 5 C were evaluated for its oxidative rancidity profile o in terms of Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS), Total carbonyls and non-heme iron values. Lipid oxidation increased with reference to irradiation dosage and there was a significant difference (p 0.05). Microbiological profile of the product showed a 3 log reduction in SPC and 2 log reduction in Yeasts and molds by employing 2KGy irradiation dosage and pathogens were also absent.
Physical adsorption immobilization of antimicrobial peptide (bacitracin) producing bacillus strain GU215 on polystyrene film

The physical immobilization of Bacillus sp GU215 on polystyrene polymer film by adsorption was performed and bacitracin (antimicrobial peptide) pr oduction by both free and immobilized cells were investigated at optimum conditions. The immobilized cells presented immediate log time within 4 h, while the free cells showed a 24 h delayed response . Likewise, free cells of Bacillus spp GU215 showed maximum zones of inhibition (18 mm) within 72 h at 30°C temperature and pH 8, whereas polystyrene polymer immobilized cells presented largest 14 mm z ones of inhibitions within 48 h at same conditions as free cells. We concluded that there existed a we ak physical adsorption between polystyrene polymer film and immobilized bacterial cells that rendered earlier detachment of cells and resulted in a decre ase in antimicrobial activity as compared to free cells .
Bioactive Gibberellins in Seeded and Seedless Grapes: Identification and Changes in Content During Berry Development

GA 1 and precursors of the early 13-β-hydroxylation pathway of gibberellins biosynthesis GA 17 and GA 19 were identified in berries of seedless grape cv. Superior seedless by full-scan gas chromatography mass-spectrometry (GC-MS) and Kovats retention indices (KRI). GA 1 , GA 17 , GA 19 , GA 3 , and its decomposition product gibberellenic acid were also detected in the berries and seeds of Ribier, a seeded cultivar. Biologically active gibberellins were determined throughout fruit development by the α-amylase bioassay. Levels of active gibberellins expressed as equivalent of GA 3 /g of fresh weight increased at the onset of the first berry growth phase, and at the initiation of the second growth-phase, in berries of both varieties, whereas in seeds maximum levels were attained during the lag phase. GA 3 equivalents were 77-fold higher in seeds compared to berries.
Temperature sensor evaluation of opossum winter activity

Abstract To effectively monitor winter foraging activity by the cryptic, non-site-faithful Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), we tested the use of small data-logging temperature sensors (iButton Thermachrons®, Maxim/Dallas SemiConductors, Dallas, Tex.) attached to a standard radiocollar on 3 opossums over the winter of 2000–2001. Two replicate sensors were required to clearly show time periods with cooler temperatures, an indication that the animal was outside the den. These foraging bouts were consistent with the available radiotelemetry data. Daily duration of foraging showed a strong negative relationship with ambient temperature, quantitatively documenting for the first time a phenomenon previously known only anecdotally. The iButton Thermachron seems to be an effective, low-cost, and low-effort technology for monitoring foraging activities of any animal that rests and forages in different temperature environments.
Performance, proximate and mineral analyses of African giant land snail ( Archachatina marginata ) fed different nitrogen sources

The effect of different nitrogen sources in the diets offered to caged African giant land snail, Archachatina marginata , was investigated in a six months experiment. Four experimental diets I, II, III and IV containing soybean, fishmeal, poultry dropping and urea as the only nitrogen source, respectively were formulated. Diet V (Pawpaw leaves) served as the control. Growth parameters (weight gain, feed intake, shell length gain and shell circumference gain), hemolymph and flesh minerals and proximate composition of the snails were determined. Snails fed diet III (poultry droppings) recorded the highest weight gain while the snails fed diet IV recorded the least value. Snail fed diet I had the highest feed conversion ratio (FCR}. The least FCR value was recorded for snails on diet V. The feed intake of snail on diet V was significantly higher (p 2+ , Mg 2+ and Fe 2+ while the highest value in Na + and Zn 2+ was recorded in snails on diet V. The chemical analysis of the flesh showed that snails fed diet V had highest value in Na + , K + , Zn 2+ and Cl- while snails on diet III had the least value in Mg 2+ and Cl - . Proximate analysis of the snails flesh revealed that crude protein value was least in snails fed diet IV and highest in snails fed diet III. Snails fed diet V had the highest ash content value closely followed by snails on diet I while those on diet IV recorded the least value.The result of the study showed that higher growth performance for Archachatina was favoured by diet III. Key Words: Snail, feed, proximate, nitrogen sources, diet. African Journal of Biotechnology Vol.3(8) 2004: 412-417
When can positive interactions cause alternative stable states in ecosystems

After a period of heavy emphasis on negative interactions, such as predation and competition, the past two decades have seen an explosion of literature on the role of positive interactions in ecological communities. Such positive interactions can take many forms. One possibility is that amelioration of environmental stress by plants or sessile animals enhances growth, reproduction and survival of others, but many more intricate patterns exist. Importantly such positive interactions may contribute to creating a positive feedback. For instance, biomass can lead to improved environmental conditions causing better growth and therefore leading to more biomass. A positive feedback is a necessary (but not sufficient) condition for the emergence of alternative stable states at the community scale. However, the literature on positive interactions in plant and animal communities rarely addresses this connection. Here, we address this gap, asking the question of when positive interactions may lead to alternative stable states, and hence set the stage for catastrophic transitions at tipping points in ecosystems. We argue that, although there are a number of now classical examples in the literature for which positive interactions are clearly the main actors of positive feedback loops, more empirical and theoretical research scaling up from the individual-level interactions to the community and the ecosystem scale processes is needed to further understand under which conditions positive interactions can trigger positive feedback loops, and thereby alternative stable states.
How do the nature of forages and pasture diversity influence the sensory quality of dairy livestock products

Abstract This review summarizes the recent developments in understanding of the relationships between the diet of animals and the sensory quality of dairy products. Feeding dairy cattle with maize silage by comparison with hay or grass silage leads to whiter and firmer cheeses and butter and sometimes to differences in flavour. Major differences in sensory characteristics were observed between cheeses made with milk produced by cows on winter diets (based on hay and grass silage) or turned out to pasture in the spring. Conversely, preserving grass as silage, by comparison with hay, has no major effect on cheese sensory characteristics, except on colour, the cheese being yellower with grass silage. Several recent experiments have shown a significant effect of grass botanical composition on cheese texture and flavour. These effects are due to the presence in milk of specific molecules directly introduced by feeding (carotenes, terpenes) or produced by the animals (plasmin, fatty acids) under the effect of specific diets.
SEEDLING MORTALITY OF SIX PHILIPPINE RAIN FOREST TREE SPECIES: A TEST OF THE 'ESCAPE HYPOTHESIS' 1

This study tests Janzen's escape hypothesis (1970, see also Connell 1971), suggesting that survival chances of forest tree propagules increase upon escape from their parents' vicinity, where the probability of being attacked by parasites of the parent tree or being eaten by seed predators searching near the parent tree is much higher. In this study the survival of propagules of six animal-dispersed tree species of a lowland rain forest on Panay, Philippines, was assessed as a function of dispersal distance from the parent tree. Dispersal distance was experimentally manipulated from 0 m to 100 m while keeping density of propagules constant. Survival of seeds and seedlings was recorded at weekly intervals during 14-26 weeks. The six individual study trees belonged to six species: Microcos stylocarpa (Tiliaceae), Neoscortechinia philippinensis (Euphorbiaceae), Syzygium sp. (Myrtaceae), Platea excelsa var. borneensis (Icacinaceae), Ficus sp. (Moraceae), Pygeum vulgare (Rosaceae). The results obtained for four of the six species support the hypothesis of an advantage through increasing dispersal distance from the parent tree, thus falsifying the idea of density-dependence as a necessary cause. For one species, dispersal away from the parent did not result in higher survival, and for another survival rate of seeds beneath the crown of the parent tree was higher than farther away. For one species we found survival chances of bare seeds to be significantly higher than of fruits. The causes of mortality varied between species and dispersal distances. Nearly all seeds of P. excelsa laid out under the crown were eaten by rodents, whereas most of the fast-growing seedlings of N. philippinensis died from pathogens at later stages. Over half of the Syzygium sp. fruits and seeds disappeared for unknown reasons within the first two weeks and M. stylocarpa individuals died for various reasons. Ficus sp. seeds suffered heavily from being eaten and/or carried away by ants within the first two weeks. Seed mortality in P. vulgare occurred through insect rather than small mammal frass or attack by pathogens. The almost complete mortality of propagules under the parent tree may have far-reaching community effects in opening up space for other, perhaps rare species, thus increasing species diversity. Accepted 14 January 2003.
Endophytic fungi in wild and cultivated grasses in Finland.

We examined the occurrence of vertically via host seeds transmitted endophyte infections of 14 grass species in natural populations in Finland and totally 97 agricultural cultivars of 13 grass species. Although endophyte infections were widespread in native grass species, overall endophyte occurrence and frequencies were lower than published reports have suggested. In natural populations, 10 out of 14 grass species examined harbor fungal endophytes in their seeds. The highest species-specific mean incidences of endophyte infected plants in infected populations were found in Agrostis capillaris. Festuca arundinacea. F. ovina. F. Pratensis. F. rubra and Phleum pratense (67%, 98%, 29%., 42%. 32% and 33%, respectively). Mean incidences were < 20% in Dactylis glomerata. Deschampsia flexuosa. D. cespitosa and Elymus repens. and no infections were detected in Calamagrostis lapponica. C. epigejos. Alopecurus pratensis and Phalaris arundinacea. However, we detected a very high variation in infection incidences among natural populations and a large proportion of populations was, indeed, endophyte-free. This supports the ideas that 1) endophytic fungi provide selective advantage of infected grasses to their uninfected eonspecifics in some habitats, and/or 2) fungi are occasionally transmitted horizontally by spores. In grass cultivars, endophyte infected seeds were detected only in F. Pratensis and Lolium perenne. and endophyte frequencies were either very high or very low. Cultivars of 11 other grass species were endophyte-free.
Feeder Root Distribution of Different Varieties of Mango

In 40 year old vegetatively propagated bearing mango trees of three varieties such as Fazli, Langra, Himsagar, the feeder root density was noted to be highest in April at mid point in surface soil (0–30 cm) in comparison to other locations. It decreased with depth, from trunk to drip line, and was positively significantly correlated ■with quantities measured at all the situation i. e. depths, surface positions and seasons. High yielding plants had significantly greater feeder root densities than low yielding plants at all depths and at both drip line and mid point in the April. High yield was also associated with the feeder root density of the plants. Leaf Nitrogen after harvest and after rains were positively correlated with root densities, irrespective of seasons, depths and positions. It indicates the importance of N fertilization for the better development of feeder root density.