bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patogenia, diagnóstico y tratamiento de la disfunción renal en cirrosis
Authors: Ortega Quiroz Rolando José , Guevara Casallas Luis Gonzalo , Holguín Rojas Jaime , Reyes Romero Adalgiza , Prieto Ortiz Jhon Edinson
Published: July 2018

Los pacientes con cirrosis hepática son susceptibles a presentar un deterioro de la función renal que puede ser de naturaleza funcional y/o estructural. La insuficiencia renal aguda (IRA) prerrenal representa la forma más frecuente en el 68% de los casos, e incluye un tipo especial de insuficiencia renal funcional conocida como síndrome hepatorrenal (SHR). La creatinina sérica permanece como el mejor biomarcador de IRA en cirrosis a pesar de sus reconocidas limitaciones. La diferenciación entre necrosis tubular aguda (NTA) y SHR se puede establecer con el uso de biomarcadores urinarios como la uNGAL. Los factores de riesgo de IRA en cirrosis incluyen las infecciones bacterianas, la hemorragia digestiva, las pérdidas de líquidos gastrointestinales y renales, la paracentesis sin albúmina y los agentes nefrotóxicos, entre otros. Los nuevos criterios por estadios de la AKI-IAC para el diagnóstico de IRA en cirrosis, que inician por un aumento de la creatinina sérica ≥0,3 mg/dL en menos de 48 horas, mejoran el pronóstico de los pacientes al permitir una intervención más temprana. El diagnóstico del SHR se establece al excluir las causas de azoemia prerrenal, NTA y expandir el volumen con albúmina. El uso de vasoconstrictores esplácnicos, como la terlipresina junto con la albúmina, permite revertir hasta el 40% de los casos de SHR. El trasplante hepático representa el tratamiento definitivo en pacientes con SHR.
Neoplasias de la unión esofagogástrica: presentación de tres casos
Authors: Rodríguez Roberto , Díaz Isabel , Flórez Alejandro , Donado Fabiola
Published: July 2018

Los patrones de incidencia de las neoplasias de esófago vienen presentando cambios en las últimas dé- cadas. Es así como en hombres, el adenocarcinoma de esófago es ahora más frecuente que el carcinoma epidermoide. Hay evidencia en las diferencias del comportamiento biológico de los adenocarcinomas y dentro de los mismos carcinomas de células escamosas de acuerdo con su localización. Muchas discrepancias existen en la literatura respecto a la etiología, clasificación y tratamiento quirúrgico para estos tumores. Los adenocarcinomas de la unión gastroesofágica incluyen a los tumores originados en el esófago dis- tal con invasión de la unión gastroesofágica, a los cardiales y a los originados en el estómago proximal. Generalmente se utiliza la clasificación topográfica propuesta por Siewert y Stein, que divide a los tumores en tipo I, cuando hay compromiso proximal a la unión gastroesofágica, tipo II, encontrados directamente en el cardias, y tipo III, encontrados en el estómago proximal. Hacemos la presentación de tres casos. Se lleva a cabo una revisión del enfoque diagnóstico y del manejo de estas lesiones.
Tres variedades de sarcoma de Kaposi con compromiso gastrointestinal
Authors: Jiménez Karina , Martínez Julián , Hernández Geovanny , Garzón Martín , Hormaza Natán , Lizarazo Jorge Iván , Marulanda Juan Carlos , Molano Juan Carlos , Rey Mario , Gómez Zuleta Martín
Published: July 2018

Se presentan casos de 4 pacientes adultos con 3 variedades de sarcoma de Kaposi: epidémico (asociado con infección por virus de inmunodeficiencia humana), iatrogénico (en paciente con inmunosupresión crónica y en un hombre con cirrosis alcohólica) y clásico (en paciente anciana sin inmunosupresión conocida); todos ellos presentaron compromiso gastrointestinal. Se hace una breve revisión de esta enfermedad.
Leiomiosarcoma de duodeno: reporte de caso
Authors: Parra-Medina Rafael , Moreno Paula , Jiménez Julián , Sánchez Marcela , Yaspe Edgardo , López Patricia
Published: July 2018

El leiomiosarcoma de duodeno es una patología poco frecuente con mal pronóstico. Los pacientes presentan un cuadro clínico poco específico y el diagnóstico se realiza a través del estudio histopatológico en donde se reconoce una lesión mesenquimal conformada por células tumorales malignas; en el estudio de inmunohisto- química se observa positividad para actina de músculo liso, desmina, actina de músculo específico, caldes- mon y calponina. Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 56 años con leiomiosarcoma primario de duodeno con metástasis al páncreas y al tronco celíaco.
Identyfikacja parametrów geotechnicznych lessów lubelskich na podstawie sondowań statycznych CPT
Authors: Nepelski Krzysztof , Rudko Małgorzata
Published: July 2018

The paper presents an analysis of the results of tests carried out on loess subsoil in the Lublin region, classifi ed geotechnically according to PN-86/B-02480:1986 and PN-EN ISO 14688-1:2006 as silt, sandy silt and silty sands. In the field, over 300 CPT/CPTU with electric and mechanical cones tests were performed, testing a total of about 2,700 lm of the loess profile. In several places, comparative tests of the probing resistances obtained with different cones were carried out. In selected places, holes were drilled directly at the penetrometer tests and samples were taken for the laboratory tests. Moisture, consistency limits were determined in the laboratory. In addition, the strength parameters (angle of internal friction and cohesion) and deformation parameters (oedometer modules) were analyzed. The obtained results were also compared with the literature data and the results of tests carried out commercially for design purposes.
Geomorphological heritage and geoconservaton in the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Milevski Ivica , Temovski Marjan
Published: July 2018

Regardless of its relatively small area (25,713 km2), Republic of Macedonia
has a rich and diverse geomorphological heritage. The reason is primarily due
to the turbulent geotectonic activity and dynamics of this part of the Balkan
Peninsula, in the zone of collision of the African and European (Eurasian)
continental plates and their sub-segments. Also, a high impact on the
geodiversity was imposed by the significant climate changes of the past.
Therefore, almost all genetic types of relief are present, with the exception
of the typical aeolian forms. In terms of geodiversity, from the 38 mountains
in the country, 12 are higher than 2,000 m and characterized with fossil
glacial and periglacial landscape. There are several mountains with typical
karst landscape, while some have unique weathering landforms. There are about
30 volcanic cones and few calderas, a number of deep valleys and canyons,
etc. However, regardless of the abundant geodiversity, their protection and
promotion (as geo-values) was not sufficiently addressed. Generally, more
attention has been paid to biodiversity, assuming that threats to the
geodiversity are not as dramatic and irreversible as to the biosphere.
However, this course is drastically changed in the latest years, especially
with the preparation and adoption of the National Strategy for Nature
Protection, where geodiversity and geoheritage have very significant place.
Within the Strategy, 79 new geomorphological sites are proposed for
protection, reaching almost 180 protected geosites up to the year of 2027.
Thus, the results from this paper represent an important step in completing
the European geoheritage database by including the data from the Republic of
Macedonia.
Victim-offender mediation as an alternative to the criminal justice system in Poland
Authors: Kulesza Cezary , Kużelewski Dariusz
Published: July 2018

The aim of the paper is to present the views of the doctrine on the mediation
and the benefits it brings to the victim, the perpetrator and society. The
paper analyses the significance of implementation of the European Parliament
and Council Directive 2012/29. This document, devoted to victims? rights
protection, has had significant impact on introducing restorative justice
provisions into the Polish Code of Criminal Procedure of 1997. The paper
discusses effectiveness of mediation in the Polish criminal procedure. It
also examines statistical data collected from Polish courts regarding
mediation. The conclusion is that mediation does not constitute a
competitive institution towards the traditional judicial system which still
remains the only ?supplier? of cases for mediation in criminal matters in
Poland.
On understanding the crisis of European supernational political integration
Authors: Stupar Milorad
Published: July 2018

It has been shown in this paper that deeper economic and political
integration of the EU does not have to be a good in itself because the
institutions of a super state most often do not function as a welfare state
in a single country the set-up of which is aimed at solving the problem of
negative externalities on the basis of a unique and coherent fiscal and
social policy on a domestic level. The motivation for a research of this type
has been initiated by the idea of ?hidden federalism?. This expression is
used in Bojan Kovacevic?s book published under the same title with an aim to
explain the fundamental problem in functioning of EU institutions which
endangers the very existence of this super national political community. By
leaving its contents unchecked by the wide European electorate, and by
leaving simultaneously the question of ultimate political authority quite
unresolved, the ?founding fathers? of the EU let the final political goal of
the EU remain under the veil of non-transparent political agreement. Their
hope was that the economic integration of the European Community lead by
technocrats would amount eventually to its harmonious political integration
on liberaldemocratic grounds. This practice has been continued by later
political elite of the EU except that non-elective policy-making group were
also in charge for creating central European institutions that shaped its
political content in a centralistic federal manner. Since these latter
institutions and policies remained unchecked by a wider public, the question
of the legitimacy of the EU institutions remains constantly unresolved
leaving the EU in permanent crisis.
Thoughts as such
Authors: Bozickovic Vojislav
Published: July 2018

Sainsbury has contested the widespread view that Fregean senses as
individuated by modes of presentation are capable of being individuated
independently of the needs of semantics. He also holds that there are
meanings as something similar to Fregean senses but individuated by a
combination of the demands of a reported speech and a Fregean test in terms
of rational cotenability (Sainsbury 2002, p. 155). In so doing, he claims
that meanings can be finer-grained than senses (modes of presentation). But,
in arguing in favour of this view, Sainsbury seems to individuate senses as
modes of presentation on an independent basis. Having noticed this, my key
point will be that, whether he individuates these modes on an independent
basis or not, it is mysterious what role such modes are supposed to play.
Following this, we shall see that the demands of a reported speech are of no
help in establishing the point that Sainsbury wants to make. On the other
hand, on the account that will I suggest senses as modes of presentation are
introduced to play a specific role.
Liver Glutamate Dehydrogenase Controls Whole-Body Energy Partitioning Through Amino Acid–Derived Gluconeogenesis and Ammonia Homeostasis
Authors: Karaca Melis , Martin-Levilain Juliette , Grimaldi Mariagrazia , Li Lingzi , Dizin Eva , Emre Yalin , Maechler Pierre
Published: July 2018

Ammonia detoxification and gluconeogenesis are major hepatic functions mutually connected through amino acid metabolism. The liver is rich in glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) that catalyzes the reversible oxidative deamination of glutamate to α-ketoglutarate and ammonia, thus bridging amino acid–to–glucose pathways. Here we generated inducible liver-specific GDH-knockout mice (HepGlud1−/−) to explore the role of hepatic GDH on metabolic homeostasis. Investigation of nitrogen metabolism revealed altered ammonia homeostasis in HepGlud1−/− mice characterized by increased circulating ammonia associated with reduced detoxification process into urea. The abrogation of hepatic GDH also modified energy homeostasis. In the fasting state, HepGlud1−/− mice could barely produce glucose in response to alanine due to impaired liver gluconeogenesis. Compared with control mice, lipid consumption in HepGlud1−/− mice was favored over carbohydrates as a compensatory energy fuel. The changes in energy partitioning induced by the lack of liver GDH modified the circadian rhythm of food intake. Overall, this study demonstrates the central role of hepatic GDH as a major regulator for the maintenance of ammonia and whole-body energy homeostasis.
Acute Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibition Accelerates Transendothelial Insulin Efflux In Vivo
Authors: Williams Ian M. , McClatchey P. Mason , Bracy Deanna P. , Valenzuela Francisco A. , Wasserman David H.
Published: July 2018

Before insulin can stimulate glucose uptake in muscle, it must be delivered to skeletal muscle (SkM) through the microvasculature. Insulin delivery is determined by SkM perfusion and the rate of movement of insulin across the capillary endothelium. The endothelium therefore plays a central role in regulating insulin access to SkM. Nitric oxide (NO) is a key regulator of endothelial function and stimulates arterial vasodilation, which increases SkM perfusion and the capillary surface area available for insulin exchange. The effects of NO on transendothelial insulin efflux (TIE), however, are unknown. We hypothesized that acute reduction of endothelial NO would reduce TIE. However, intravital imaging of TIE in mice revealed that reduction of NO by l-NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) enhanced the rate of TIE by ∼30% and increased total extravascular insulin delivery. This accelerated TIE was associated with more rapid insulin-stimulated glucose lowering. Sodium nitroprusside, an NO donor, had no effect on TIE in mice. The effects of l-NAME on TIE were not due to changes in blood pressure alone, as a direct-acting vasoconstrictor (phenylephrine) did not affect TIE. These results demonstrate that acute NO synthase inhibition increases the permeability of capillaries to insulin, leading to an increase in delivery of insulin to SkM.
Poor Glycemic Control Is Associated With Increased Extracellular Volume Fraction in Diabetes
Authors: Al-Badri Ahmed , Hashmath Zeba , Oldland Garrett H. , Miller Rachana , Javaid Khuzaima , Syed Amer Ahmed , Ansari Bilal , Gaddam Swetha , Witschey Walter R. , Akers Scott R. , Chirinos Julio A.
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

We assessed whether poor glycemic control is associated with an increase in myocardial fibrosis among adults with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 47 adults with type 2 diabetes and stratified them into three groups according to their hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level: <6.5% (group 1; n = 12), 6.5–7.5% (group 2; n = 20), and >7.5% (group 3; n = 15). Left ventricular (LV) mass was assessed using cardiac MRI. The extracellular volume fraction (ECVF), an index of myocardial fibrosis, was measured by using myocardial T1 mapping before and after the administration of a gadolinium-based contrast agent.

RESULTS

Mean HbA1c was 5.84 ± 0.16%, 6.89 ± 0.14%, and 8.57 ± 0.2% in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. LV mass was not significantly different between the groups. The myocardial ECVF was significantly greater in groups 2 (mean 27.6% [95% CI 24.8–30.3]) and 3 (27.6% [24.4–30.8]) than in group 1 (21.1% [17.5–24.7]; P = 0.015). After adjusting for age, sex, BMI, blood pressure, and estimated glomerular filtration rate, the myocardial ECVF was significantly greater in groups 2 (27.4% [24.4–30.4]) and 3 (28% [24.5–31.5]) than in group 1 (20.9% [17.1–24.6]; P = 0.0156, ANCOVA).

CONCLUSIONS

An increased myocardial ECVF, suggesting myocardial fibrosis, is independently associated with poor glycemic control among adults with diabetes. Further research should assess whether tight glycemic control can revert fibrosis to healthy myocardium or ameliorate it and its adverse clinical consequences.
Performance of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Scores in People Diagnosed With Type 2 Diabetes: External Validation Using Data From the National Scottish Diabetes Register
Authors: Read Stephanie H. , van Diepen Merel , Colhoun Helen M. , Halbesma Nynke , Lindsay Robert S. , McKnight John A. , McAllister David A. , Pearson Ewan R. , Petrie John R. , Philip Sam , Sattar Naveed , Woodward Mark , Wild Sarah H.
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the performance of five cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk scores developed in diabetes populations and compare their performance to QRISK2.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cohort of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes between 2004 and 2016 was identified from the Scottish national diabetes register. CVD events were identified using linked hospital and death records. Five-year risk of CVD was estimated using each of QRISK2, ADVANCE (Action in Diabetes and Vascular disease: preterAx and diamicroN-MR Controlled Evaluation), Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS), New Zealand Diabetes Cohort Study (NZ DCS), Fremantle Diabetes Study, and Swedish National Diabetes Register (NDR) risk scores. Discrimination and calibration were assessed using the Harrell C statistic and calibration plots, respectively.

RESULTS

The external validation cohort consisted of 181,399 people with type 2 diabetes and no history of CVD. There were 14,081 incident CVD events within 5 years of follow-up. The 5-year observed risk of CVD was 9.7% (95% CI 9.6, 9.9). C statistics varied between 0.66 and 0.67 for all risk scores. QRISK2 overestimated risk, classifying 87% to be at high risk for developing CVD within 5 years; ADVANCE underestimated risk, and the Swedish NDR risk score calibrated well to observed risk.

CONCLUSIONS

None of the risk scores performed well among people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. Using these risk scores to predict 5-year CVD risk in this population may not be appropriate.
Effects of High Blood Pressure on Cardiovascular Disease Events Among Chinese Adults With Different Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Tian Jingyan , Sheng Chang-Sheng , Sun Weihong , Song Xiaomin , Wang Haiyan , Li Qifang , Li Wenyi , Wang Weiqing
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

To investigate cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks caused by blood pressure (BP) of 130–139/80–89 mmHg among Chinese adults with different glucose metabolism.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective population-based cohort of 2,132 adults in Shanghai was established in 2002, and CVD information was collected during 10.9 years of follow-up. After assessing the association between BP categories and incident CVD, we analyzed the risk for CVD by blood glucose categories and BP categories combined by using multiple Cox regression analysis among 1,419 participants at follow-up.

RESULTS

The corresponding incidence of CVD per 1,000 person-years for the BP <130/80 mmHg, 130–139/80–89 mmHg, and ≥140/90 mmHg or treated groups were 3.0, 6.0, and 13.9, respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, and other factors, BP ≥140/90 mmHg was significantly associated with a higher CVD risk in general (hazard ratio 2.68 [95% CI 1.36–5.25]) and in various blood glucose categories (normoglycemia 2.59, prediabetes 3.03, diabetes mellitus [DM] 4.98). However, BP of 130–139/80–89 mmHg was significantly associated with a higher CVD risk in an estimated baseline 10-year atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) risk ≥10% (3.82 [1.42–9.78]) or DM (3.54 [1.05–11.88]) but not in the general population or for a baseline 10-year ASCVD risk <10%, normoglycemia, or prediabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

BP of 130–139/80–89 mmHg may result in a significantly higher CVD risk in Chinese adults with an estimated 10-year ASCVD risk ≥10% or DM but not in those with normoglycemia or prediabetes.
Preface
Authors: Uimari Pekka
Published: July 2018

Agricultural research in boreal region today is more important than ever. Current challenges related to climate change, free market, common agricultural policy, food labelling and safety require new knowledge and solutions in farm and policy making levels. Also, global demand for safe and nutritious food and increased demand for animal products in developing countries give opportunities and poses responsibilities for food production in Northern hemisphere especially in boreal region where available water is not a limiting factor for food production. In order to fulfil the national and global demands, the long term goal of the agricultural research in boreal region should be the sustainable intensification of food production. In addition, a better use of by-products and efficient cycling of nutrients in all sectors of food chain is essential in the future. I hope Agricultural and Food Science is in the front line publishing the scientific articles related to these important topics.
Farmers' reactions to the internationalisation of cooperatives
Authors: Ollila Petri , Nilsson Jerker , Hess Sebastian
Published: July 2018

Abstract: This study examined the extent to which farmer cooperatives enjoy social capital within their memberships as they become internationalised. The empirical basis was a survey of farmers in Finland. Findings from limited dependent variable regression models suggest that one group of farmers is loyal to the cooperative and opposes its foreign investments. A second and a third group have lower levels of social capital and switch membership status between multiple cooperatives or opt out of cooperatives. These farmers welcome international investment. This finding was more significant for individual farm types than the social capital-linked opposition to internationalisation. A general conclusion is that the internationalization of cooperatives seems affect the members’ trust in the cooperative differently. The increasing heterogeneity within the memberships may give rise to governance problems.
Dairy farmers’ values and how their values affect their decision
Authors: Hansen Bjørn Gunnar , Greve Arent
Published: July 2018

Values affect humans’ perception of situations and problems and guide our actions. The objective of this study was to explore the values of dairy farmers, and whether their values influenced their decisions to maintain dairy farming or to buy consultancy services. During late fall 2007 we visited and interviewed 90 farmers. First we did a qualitative analysis of the data and then we merged the interview data with the existing database of financial data from the year 2007 to do statistical analyses. We also checked whether the farmers still produced milk in 2013, six years after the interviews.  Most farmers had terminal values like keeping up the tradition and to have an interesting work. Value combinations with instrumental values such as to earn money and to produce milk were common. Realizing that many farmers prioritize terminal values over instrumental values has important consequences for dairy companies, dairy consultants and politicians.
Transcriptome profiling of Finnsheep ovaries during out-of-season breeding period
Authors: Pokharel Kisun , Peippo Jaana , Andersson Göran , Li Meng-Hua , Kantanen Juha
Published: July 2018

Finnsheep is one of the most prolific sheep breeds in the world. We sequenced RNA-Seq libraries from the ovaries of Finnsheep ewes collected during out of season breeding period at about 30X sequence coverage. A total of 86 966 348 and 105 587 994 reads from two samples were mapped against latest available ovine reference genome (Oarv3.1). The transcriptome assembly revealed 14 870 known ovine genes, including the 15 candidate genes for fertility and out-of-season breeding. In this study we successfully used our bioinformatics pipeline to assemble the first ovarian transcriptome of Finnsheep.
Effects of different paper mulches on soil temperature and yield of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in the temperate zone
Authors: Haapala Tapani , Palonen Pauliina , Tamminen Antti , Ahokas Jukka
Published: July 2018

The effect of different paper mulches and two different biodegradable plastic mulches on the yield of field-grown cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) was examined. The studies were conducted during two climatically different growing seasons 2011 and 2012 in Southern Finland.  All the mulches increased the yield as compared to bare ground. In 2011, cucumbers on all the mulches with a dark upper surface produced higher yields than those on kraft paper alone. In 2012, when the average temperatures were lower than in 2011, there were no differences in yield between different types of mulches. Soil temperatures of the experimental plots were monitored throughout the growing seasons. The mulches with a dark-colored upper surface increased the soil temperature more than the ones with a light-colored upper surface. The soil warming effect of the mulches was greater during early season and diminished when the plants grew larger and their leaves covered most of the mulch surface. There was no need for weed control except in uncovered plots. In conclusion, during both years dark-colored paper mulch was comparable to biodegradable film in yield production and could replace it as a mulch material in cucumber production.
Stem anatomy of annual legume intercropping components: white lupin (Lupinus albus L.), narbonne (Vicia narbonensis L.) and common (Vicia sativa L.) vetches
Authors: Zoric Lana , Mikic Aleksandar , Antanasovic Svetlana , Karanovic Dunja , Cupina Branko , Lukovic Jadranka
Published: July 2018

The effect of intercropping on stem anatomy of both supporting (Lupinus albus) and supported (Vicia narbonnensis and V. sativa) annual forage legumes was investigated using stereological method. Intercropped plants showed minimal differences in volume densities (Vv) of stem tissues and forage chemical composition compared to sole crops. The proportions of lignin and NDF (Neutral Detergent Fiber) positively correlated with xylem Vv. The proportions of ADF (Acid Detergent Fiber), cellulose and ash in intercropped plants were increased or decreased mostly by less than 10% compared to those in pure stands. The Anatomical Equivalent Ratio (AER) defined as the ratio based on anatomical quality-determining parameters, can assist in the evaluation of the benefits of specific intercropping systems. Intercropping of the legume species studied in this work, especially L. albus with V. sativa, showed encouraging results from anatomical perspective since it would not cause a decline of forage quality.
Neutral lipid fatty acid analysis is a sensitive marker for quantitative estimation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in agricultural soil with crops of different mycotrophy
Authors: Vestberg Mauritz , Palojärvi Ansa , Pitkänen Timo , Kaipainen Saara , Puolakka Elina , Keskitalo Marjo
Published: July 2018

The impact of host mycotrophy on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) markers was studied in a temperate agricultural soil cropped with mycorrhizal barley, flax, reed canary-grass, timothy, caraway and quinoa and non-mycorrhizal buckwheat, dyer's woad, nettle and false flax. The percentage of AMF root colonization, the numbers of infective propagules by the Most Probable Number (MPN) method, and the amounts of signature Phospholipid Fatty Acid (PLFA) 16:1ω5 and Neutral Lipid Fatty Acid (NLFA) 16:1ω5 were measured as AMF markers.  Crop had a significant impact on MPN levels of AMF, on NLFA 16:1ω5 levels in bulk and rhizosphere soil and on PLFA 16:1ω5 levels in rhizosphere soil. Reed canary-grass induced the highest levels of AMF markers. Mycorrhizal markers were at low levels in all non-mycorrhizal crops. NLFA 16:1ω5 and the ratio of NLFA to PLFA 16:1ω5 from bulk soil are adequate methods as indicators of AMF biomass in soil.
Root colonization with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) concentration in hypoxic soils in natural CO2 springs
Authors: Maček Irena , Kastelec Damijana , Vodnik Dominik
Published: July 2018

Changed ratios of soil gases that lead to hypoxia are most often present in waterlogged soils, but can also appear in soils not saturated with water. In natural CO2 springs (mofettes), gases in soil air differ from those in typical soils. In this study, plant roots from the mofette area Stavešinci (Slovenia) were sampled in a spatial scale and investigated for AM fungal colonization. AM fungi were found in roots from areas with high geological CO2 concentration, however mycorrhizal intensity was relatively low and no correlation between AM fungal colonization and soil pattern of CO2/O2 concentrations (up to 37% CO2) was found. The relatively high abundance of arbuscules in root cortex indicated existence of functional symbiosis at much higher CO2 concentrations than normally found in soils. In addition, concentration of two different glomalin-related soil protein fractions – EE-GRSP and TG-GRSP – was measured. No significant correlation between any of the fractions and soil gases was found, however the concentration of both fractions was significantly higher in the upper 0–5 cm, compared to the 5–10 cm layer of the soil.
Dairy cow excreta patches change the boreal grass swards from sink to source of methane
Authors: Maljanen Marja Elisa , Virkajärvi Perttu , Martikainen Pertti J.
Published: July 2018

We studied methane (CH4) flux rates from experimental excreta patches on a dairy pasture with a chamber technique during snow free seasons and with a gas gradient technique during winter from timothy-meadow fescue sward with mineral N fertilization (220 kg ha-1) and from grass-white clover mixture without fertilization. The dung and urine patches were applied in June or August two consecutive grazing seasons and the measurements were carried out for a year following each application. There were no significant differences in CH4 fluxes between plant species and emissions originated mainly from the fresh dung pats. The average annual CH4 fluxes from the control sites without excreta were -0.60±0.1 and with the excreta 0.47±0.3 kg CH4 ha-1. Thus, excreta originating from dairy cows can turn boreal swards from weak sinks to small sources of CH4. However, these emissions are only 0.2% of the total CH4 emissions from a dairy cow.
Changes in the invasion level, and impact of alien plants in Finnish semi-natural agricultural habitats
Authors: Jauni Miia , Helenius Juha , Hyvönen Terho
Published: July 2018

Using dataset of 508 transects of 50 m2, we assessed changes in the invasion level of alien plant species in semi-natural agricultural habitats in three study years (2001, 2005 and 2010) in four geographical regions of Finland. In addition, the impact of environmental factors on the occurrence of the most common neophytes (alien species introduced after the 17th century) and the impact of neophytes on native species diversity were studied. In total, 37 neophyte species were detected, but neophytes regarded as highly invasive were rare and occasional. We detected spatio-temporal variation in the invasion level, but it changed according to the measure used. For instance, alien species diversity was lower in south-western Finland than in other years in 2005, and the relative alien species richness was highest in southern and lowest in eastern Finland. Preferences for environmental conditions (disturbance, habitat type and geographical location) and the impact on plant diversity varied among the most common neophytes. The most common neophytes were positively rather than negatively associated with native and alien species diversity. The results suggest that alien species management and control methods should be species-specific and considered case-by-case. Neophytes do not yet cause severe problems, but regular monitoring is needed to detect changes in their invasion levels.
Pure and compensated efficiency of Swedish dairy farms
Authors: Manevska-Tasevska Gordana , Rabinowicz Ewa , Surry Yves
Published: July 2018

The compensatory effect of environmental subsidies for agri-environmental output constraints was evaluated through a comparative analysis observing the ‘pure’ efficiency, as a benchmark for prevailing production conditions, and the ‘compensated’ efficiency, as a proxy indicator of the compensation. An unbalanced data panel covering 3578 Swedish dairy farms in the period 2002-2012 was used. The analysis showed that in the study period, environmental farm support decreased the differences in farm revenue generated by agri-environmental output constraints in Sweden. However, the environmental support distribution did not succeed in meeting regional needs, so difficulties in farmers’ ability to generate output in southern and central forest and valley areas of Sweden were visible. Furthermore, the environmental agricultural support had only a partial subsidisation effect on ‘green’ farm management practices, with full compensation being achieved for organic and capital-extensive farming, whereas low livestock density farming was not sufficiently compensated. This analysis reveals incentives with policy implications for farm economic performance and provides direct input to future policy recommendations for environmental support allocation.
Nutritional value of yellow-seeded winter rapeseed cakes for growing pigs
Authors: Święch Ewa , Raj Stanislawa , Pastuszewska Barbara , Taciak Marcin , Bartkowiak-Broda Iwona , Smulikowska Stefania
Published: July 2018

Objective of the study was to compare the composition and nutritional value of a winter brown- (BRC) and three yellow-seeded (YRC) cold-pressed rapeseed cakes as the components of pigs’ diets, and to assess their effects on colonic bacterial fermentation and the relative weight of organs. In experiment 1, the standardised ileal digestibility (SID) of protein and amino acids (AA) of cakes was determined in 12 male cannulated pigs. Each diet was fed to six pigs during three seven-day periods. Ileal digesta was collected during the last three days of the period. In experiment 2, five groups each containing six female pigs with initial body weights (BW) of 20 kg were fed on diets containing BRC, YRC, or soyabean oil meal (SBM) as the main protein source. The apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients and growth performance were measured untill 60 kg BW was reached, and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) concentrations in the colon, as well as the weight of the liver, kidney, heart, and thyroid, were recorded. The main differences between BRC and YRC were found in higher content of fat and protein, lower amounts of fibre and glucosinolates (Gls), and higher ATTD of fibre in YRC. Protein and AA SID, ATTD of nutrients, total SCFA colonic concentration, and growth performance did not significantly differ. The chemical composition of the three YRC was not uniform, the greatest differences were found among the amounts of Gls. The relative weights of the thyroid and heart were greater in pigs fed BRC than in YRC and SBM diets. Thyroid weight was positively correlated with dietary progoitrin, alkenyl Gls, and total Gls, whereas heart weight was positively correlated with progoitrin and alkenyl Gls. It was concluded that winter yellow-seeded rapeseed is a better raw material for cold-pressing than brown-seeded due to having lower Gls and fibre content.
Intensifying bare fallow strategies to control Elymus repens in organic soils
Authors: Lötjönen Timo , Salonen Jukka
Published: July 2018

Perennial weeds are an increasing challenge in organic farming in the Nordic countries. The aim of this study was to compare different tillage methods in the control of Elymus repens by using two intensified bare fallow strategies. Two field experiments consisted of three ploughing methods and seven fallow methods. The experiments were carried out in organic soils in Central Finland. The methods applied in the brief fallow before cereal sowing (exp. 1) were not effective enough against E. repens. Due to wet weather conditions in the spring the fallow period was limited to two weeks in both years, which did not seem to be enough time. In the late summer fallow after ley (exp. 2), the Kvick-Finn weed-cultivator destroyed E. repens very effectively; on average 5% of E. repens remained alive in the barley crop in the autumn of the following year. After use of ordinary cultivators 10% of E. repens remained alive, after use of the spade harrow 25% and after frequent mowing over 50% remained alive, respectively. As a result of effective E. repens control, barley yield was about 1000 kg ha-1 higher than without any fallow. In conclusion, effective control of E. repens is achieved with proper machinery and repeated treatments at the optimal time.
Fumonisin B1 and beauvericin accumulation in wheat kernels after seed-borne infection with Fusarium proliferatum
Authors: Guo Zhiqing , Pfohl Katharina , Karlovsky Petr , Dehne Heinz-Wilhelm , Altincicek Boran
Published: July 2018

Fusarium proliferatum is a fungal pathogen causing ear rot of maize. The fungus infects a range of other plants but the economic impact of these diseases has not been established. Recently, F. proliferatum and its mycotoxin fumonisin were found in wheat grains. Here we report that seed-borne infection of wheat with F. proliferatum resulted in systemic colonization of wheat plants and contamination of wheat grains with fumonisins and beauvericin. F. proliferatum strains originating from different hosts were able to infect wheat via seeds. Colonization of wheat plants with the fungus was highest in the stems, followed by leaves; one third of the strains reached kernels, causing accumulation of fumonisins and beauvericin to 15–55 µg kg-1. The results show that seed-borne infection of wheat with F. proliferatum can lead to contamination of wheat kernels with mycotoxins fumonisins and beauvericin.
Concentrate feeding and milk yield based on the field data of milk recorded herds
Authors: KAUSTELL K. , MÄNTYSAARI E. , HUHTANEN P.
Published: July 2018

Field data from 16 051 Finnish milk recorded herds including milk yield (MY), feed consumption, feed analyses, and the herd effect for milk yield (HMILK) obtained from the national breeding value estimation program, were analysed to detect the influence of concentrate feeding on milk production. HMILKs are deviations from the average national level with mean of 45 kg and SD of 722 kg. Mean MY was 6917 kg and mean dry matter intake (DMI) 5679 kg per cow per year. The effect of concentrate feeding on HMILK and MY was studied by using quantitative [amount of energy (FUI) and concentrates (CI) in the diet] and qualitative [proportion of grain (Gc) or compound feed (Mc) in concentrates or CP content (CPc) of concentrates] diet characteristics as dependent variables in multivariate regression analysis. The general linear effect of CI was 1.18 kg MY/kg CI. Production response of CI decreased with increasing CI as indicated by significant interactions between CI and CI classes. Gc showed a negative relationship with HMILK, but CPc proved to be a more important factor affecting HMILK. Feeding grain instead of compound feed was connected with too low protein content in concentrates. Mc was positively correlated with CP content of concentrates. However, the use of compound feed appeared to give a slight increase in HMILK even after accounting for the effect of CP. ;
Yellow-flowered lucerne: Properties and influence on performance and reproduction of ewes
Authors: SORMUNEN-CRISTIAN R. , TAPONEN S. , SAASTAMOINEN I.
Published: July 2018

Conception rates and prolificacy of Finnish Landrace ewes fed yellow-flowered lucerne (Medicago falcata L.) pasture and silage prior to and during the mating period were compared with those of control ewes fed timothy (Phleum pratense L.) - meadow fescue (Festuca pratensis Huds.) pasture and silage. Ewes grazed pasture for four weeks and received their respective silage for 10 weeks indoors. Dry matter (DM) intake of lucerne silage was higher than that of grass silage (1.77 vs. 1.40 kg DM day-1). Timothy-fescue grass and silage analysed by a new modified method did not contain detectable amounts of plant oestrogens. In fresh and preserved lucerne, the amount of coumestrol was only moderate varying from zero to 59.5 ppm DM. Ewes fed lucerne received higher amounts of plant oestrogens than those on control feeding, but no differences in conception rate or lambing performance were found between the groups. However on lucerne, ewes conceived five days earlier (P=0.03) than control animals. Prolificacy of lucerne and control fed ewes averaged 3.13 and 3.19 lambs/ewe (P=0.76), respectively. There were no ewe health problems. The results suggest that the intake of yellow-flowered lucerne is good and the level of plant oestrogens has no detrimental effects on reproductive performance of adult Finnish Landrace ewes. ;
Use of semi-leafless peas (Pisum sativum L) with enzyme addition in diets for broilers
Authors: Koivunen Erja , Talvio Eija , Valkonen Eija , Tupasela Tuomo , Tuunainen Petra , Valaja Jarmo
Published: July 2018

The aim was to study the effects of dietary pea inclusion and the addition of Avizyme 1200 -enzyme cocktail on broiler performance, intestinal viscosity and organoleptic quality of meat. The experimental design was a 4 × 2 factorial, the factors being dietary pea inclusion (0, 150, 300 and 450 g kg-1) in the diets fed from day 9 to day 38 and the addition of Avizyme 1200 enzyme cocktail including amylase, protease and xylanase during the entire experiment. The growth of birds improved (p ≤ 0.018) with pea inclusion in a cubic manner. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) of the birds fed on unsupplemented diets improved along pea inclusion, while pea inclusion impaired the FCR on the birds on enzyme cocktail supplemented diets (p ≤ 0.006). The use of the enzyme cocktail improved the body weight, body weight gain and FCR of the broilers and decreased intestinal viscosity (p < 0.001). The organoleptic quality of meat was similar among treatments (p > 0.05). In conclusion, 450 g kg-1 peas can be used in the broiler grower diets without negative effects on the bird performance. The use of enzyme cocktail improves bird performance.
Microsatellite panels suggested for parentage testing in cattle: informativeness revealed in Finnish Ayrshire and Holstein-Friesian populations (Research Note)
Authors: BREDBACKA P. , KOSKINEN M.T.
Published: July 2018

Informativeness of eleven microsatellite markers suggested for parentage control in cattle by the International Society for Animal Genetics (ISAG) was studied in Finnish Ayrshire and Holstein-Friesian populations. Calculations were based on a sample of 100 non-sib artificial insemination bulls. Assuming one known parent the nine loci suggested for routine testing exhibited exclusion probabilities of 99.84% in the Ayrshires and 99.91% in the Holstein-Friesians. The addition of markers INRA23 and TGLA53, recommended for further investigations, increased the attained values to 99.94% in Ayrshires and to 99.98% in Holstein-Friesians. The recommended core set of six microsatellites provided a combined exclusion probability of 98.25% in Ayrshires and 99.32% in Holstein-Friesians. Although the combined values were high in general, a relatively low level of polymorphism was detected in some instances.;
HPLC analysis of vitamin B6 in foods
Authors: OLLILAINEN V.-M.
Published: July 2018

The objective of this work was to evaluate the methods for determination of vitamin B6 in foods. To achieve this, the literature review focused on sample treatment and liquid chromatographic analysis of vitamin B6 related compounds. In the experimental part, the chosen sample pretreatment and the high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method were validated, and used to produce vitamin B6 data on various food items commonly consumed in Finland. The main emphasis of the sample treatment was on the extraction efficiency and the maintenance of the original concentration profile of the vitamers. Several acid extraction procedures were tested for this purpose. Perchloric acid was chosen as the extraction agent. Routine food analysis was then performed using dilute ice-cold perchloric acid extraction followed by an internally standardized ion-paired reversed-phase liquid chromatography. Food samples were hydrolyzed with takadiastase and alkaline phosphatase enzymes, phosphorylated and glycosylated vitamers were quantitated before and after the enzymatic digestion. This procedure enabled the extraction of vitamin B6 compounds in their intact forms, and the measurement of free, phosphorylated and glycosylated forms. The maintenance of the concentration profile of the vitamers was verified by using 14C -labeled pyridoxal 5'-phosphate in the examination of the extraction procedure. The extraction efficiency and laboratory performance were confirmed by interlaboratory studies. Up-to-date data on vitamin B6 content of about fifty common food items was produced. The data includes the results from meat and poultry, fish and fish product, dairy product, cereal and vegetable, and ready-to-eat food samples. Free and phosphorylated vitamin B6 compounds were measured in all food groups, and the glycosylated vitamer fraction was analyzed in all plant-derived foods. The results obtained in this work showed that vitamin B6 content of nearly all foods of plant origin was mainly comprised of glycosidically bound pyridoxine derivatives. These bound analytes are normally not taken into account in traditional analytical methods, and food composition tables lack the data of glycosylated pyridoxine. The role of the glycosylated pyridoxines need to be clarified in terms of their analytical and physiological nature. If, as it is currently assumed, the availability of the bound forms is limited for humans, the role of vegetables, cereals and other foods of plant origin as a source of vitamin B6, as well as the analytical methods should be reassessed.;
Subsoil compaction due to wheel traffic.
Authors: ALAKUKKU L.
Published: July 2018

The article reviews those major soil properties and traffic factors, which together influence subsoil compaction resulting from the passage of agricultural vehicles. Likewise, the effects of subsoil compaction on soil properties, processes and crop growth are discussed on several levels, from methods of measuring to the persistence of compaction effects. The risk of subsoil compaction exists whenever moist soils are loaded with heavy axle load and moderate to high ground contact stress. Subsoil compaction tends to be highly persistent. To avoid the risk of long-term deterioration, limits for the induction of mechanical stresses in the subsoil should be established through international teamwork.;
Cold hardiness research on agricultural and horticultural crops in Finland
Authors: LINDÉN L. , SEPPÄNEN M. , VÄINÖLÄ A.
Published: July 2018

This paper represents an overview of cold hardiness research conducted on agricultural and horticultural crops, as well as on amenity plants in Finland. Inadequate freezing tolerance and/or winter hardiness often prevents introduction of new species and cultivars to Finland. Field observations on winter hardiness and more recently the results from laboratory freezing tests, have assisted breeders to select hardy genotypes. Research approaches for agricultural crops have evolved from observations on winter and frost damage to studies on molecular mechanisms of cold acclimation and freezing injury. The results of experiments on survival of winter cereals, grasses and clovers and frost tolerance of potato and turnip rape are discussed. The studies conducted on horticultural crops, including apple, strawberry, raspberry, currants, blueberry, sea buckthorn, perennial herbs as well as on ornamental trees and shrubs have included field evaluations of cultivars, or selections for winter hardiness, and studies on the effects of cultural management practices on winter survival. During the last decade detailed studies including controlled freezing tests have provided tools to assist in explanation of the underlying mechanisms of cold hardiness also in horticultural plants. ;