bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver graft from donation after circulatory death donor: Real practice to improve graft viability
Authors: Hashimoto Koji
Published: July 2020

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) is an increasing source of liver grafts for transplantation, yet outcomes have been inferior compared to donation after brain death liver transplantation. These worse outcomes are mainly due to the severe graft injury resulting from mandatory warm ischemia during DCD organ recovery. New evidence, however, indicates that improved donor selection and surgical techniques can decrease the risk of graft failure and ischemic cholangiopathy (IC). Under current best practices, DCD organs are retrieved with the super-rapid technique, optimizing timing and protecting the liver graft from detrimental warm ischemia. Graft viability is influenced by both the quantity and quality of warm ischemia, which is unique to each donor and causes various degrees of pathophysiologic consequences. Evidence also shows that the choice of preservation solution and premortem heparin administration influences graft viability. Additionally, although the precise mechanism of IC remains unknown, stasis of blood during donor warm ischemia may cause the formation of microthrombi in the peribiliary vascular plexus and ischemia of the bile duct. Importantly, thrombolytic protocols show a possible preventive modality for IC. Finally, while ex vivo machine perfusion technology has gained an interest in DCD liver transplantation, further studies are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of this evolving field to improve graft quality and transplant outcomes.
MANAGEMENT OF LATE SPRING-EARLY SUMMER PASTURE SURPLUSES IN HILL COUNTRY
Authors: Sheath G.W. , Webby R.W. , Pengelly W.J.
Published: July 2020

Comparisons of controlling late spring to early summer pasture growth on either easy or steep contoured land with either a fast rotation or continuous grazing policy were made in self-contained farmlets for two years. Pasture control was maintained over more land by controlling steep land first and with continuous grazing. Animal performances (ewes, steers) were generally similar for the mid-November to early January treatment period, and subsequently until May shearing. In the first year better animal performances occurred in "steep control" farmlets during winter and early spring, but this was less evident in the second year. Priority control of steep land during late spring-early summer is recommended because of likely longer-term benefits in pasture composition,density and production. Quick rotation grazing through the period provides a better ability to recognise and manage pasture quantities and should be adopted if summer droughts are anticipated. For well fenced properties in summer-wet areas and with integrated stock grazing, continuous grazing during late spring-early summer may be equally suitable. Keywords: hill country, grazing management, pasture control
USE OF AN ELECTRONIC GUIDANCE SYSTEM IN TOPDRESSING PINE FORESTS
Authors: Will G.M. , Hedderwick G.W.
Published: July 2020

Since 1970 an increasing annual programme of aerial topdressing of forests has been carried out. In the past uneven spread of fertilisers has been a major problem, causing substantial waste of fertiliser and uneven tree growth. Since 1979 most of the areas that have been fertilised have been topdressed by a helicopter fitted with a Decca Flying Flagman electronic guidance system. Use of this system has resulted in much more accurate flying and more even spread of fertiliser enabling fertiliser application rates to be reduced. Further reductions are probable when fertiliser spreading rates and ground speeds can be monitored more accurately. Keywords: pine forest, fertiliser, aerial application, electronic guidance
SOIL WATER CONTENT AFFECTS THE AVAILABILITY OF PHOSPHATE
Authors: Nes M.C.H.Mouat Pieter
Published: July 2020

Reduction in water content of a soil increased the concentration of ammonium and nitrate in solution, but had no effect on the concentration of phosphate. The corresponding reduction in the quantity of phosphate in solution caused an equivalent reduction in the response of ryegrass to applied phosphate. Keywords: soil solution, soil water content, phosphate, ryegrass, nutrition.
Grazing management influences on seasonality and performance of ryegrass and red clover in a mixture
Authors: Cosgrove G.P. , Brougham R.W.
Published: July 2020

Grazing management influences on the production and species composition of a ryegrass, red and white clover pasture were evaluated over 3 years. Pastures were grazed by cattle frequently in either winter or summer and infrequently for the remainder of the year or grazed infrequently all year. Frequency was determined by the height of herbage pre-grazing and was lo-12 cm for frequent grazing and 15-20 cm for infrequent grazing. Annual herbage production of 15.1 t DM/ha was not influenced by grazing management but seasonal production was. Management caused both instantaneous and longer term effects on production of component species. Lower summer production because of frequent grazing in that season resulted from a reduction in red clover production from 2.75 to 1.3 t DM/ha. However, ryegrass production in spring was increased by 60% and in summer it was more than doubled by this grazing treatment. Frequent grazing in winter also increased ryegrass and reduced red clover production in summer compared with infrequent grazing all year but had no effect on ryegrass production in spring. Red clover plant density was unaffected by the different grazing managements imposed for two and a half years but subsequently was lower under frequent summer grazing. Red clover dominance in summer and its effect on ryegrass production in spring can be controlled by more frequent grazing in summer and a more even species balance results. Emphasis on spring or summer production can be achieved through grazing management without affecting total production. Keywords: Red clover, ryegrass, grazing frequency, cattle grazing, herbage production, seasonal production
PERSISTENCE AND GROWTH OF MAKU LOTUS ON CONTRASTING ASPECTS AT HIGH ALTITUDE
Authors: Dunbar G.A. , Costello E.J.
Published: July 2020

Maku lotus plants were grown in snow tussock grasslands at 1460 m altitude on steep ungrazed slopes. A total of 960 plants were transplanted in spring 1980 to five sites. In March 1984 survival was 72% and 68% on two NW sites and 66%, 56% and 46% on three ESE sites. Survival rates did not differ between 100 and 300 kg/ha sulphur enriched superphosphate applied in the transplant year, but dense native vegetation appeared to contribute to poorer survival on the eastern slopes. Mean lotus plant size, expressed as an index of ground spread was consistently larger on NW than on ESE, and in February 1984 was three times larger (1422 cm* cf. 429 cmZ). Mean DM yields per plant in February and March 1984 were from 1.3 to 3.0 times greater on NW sites. Ground spread indices and D.M. yields showed a response to the higher rate of fertiliser on some sites only. Higher air and soil temperatures on NW aspect, particularly in early spring and In autumn favouied a longer period of growth compared with E.S.E. The trials showed that Maku lotus could be a valuable herbage resource on warmer northerly aspects above 1000 m. In addition, the high variability amongst l.otus plants suggested that production for such cool environments could be improved by selection within existing populations. Keywords: Maku lotus, Lotus pendunculatus, aspect, high altitude, persistence, plant performance, plant selection.
GRAZING EFFECTS ON PASTURE AND ANIMAL PRODUCTION FROM OVERSOWN TUSSOCK GRASSLAND
Authors: Allan B.E.
Published: July 2020

Continuous stocking was compared with intermittent (two paddock) and rotational (six paddock) grazing at low, medium and high stocking rates equivalent to 1.0x, 1.5x and 2.0x conventional rates for oversown tussock country (500 mm annual rainfall). 'By the sixth year liveweight gain/ha from Merino wether hoggets was improved 26% by intermittent and rotational grazing at medium stocking rates from that at conventional stocking rates. A strong interaction was demonstrated, with advantage in liveweight gain from intermittent and rotational grazing strengthening with increasing stocking rate. Total vegetative cover (75.8%) remained unchanged. Cocksfoot increased under low stocking while ryegrass increased under high stocking. A 60% overall loss in ryegrass during 1982 was attributed to unusually low winter soil temperatures. White clover cover was affected more b y climate than by grazing. A!!hough ?here *were interim differences, herbage production by the sixth year was similar for all treatments. Keywords: Tussock country, oversown, grazing, stocking rate, subdivision, pasture development, utilisation, Merino, liveweight.
SUMMER DROUGHTS IN NORTHLAND - A POOR EXCUSE
Authors: Ferrier G.J.
Published: July 2020

Dry summer conditions in Northland have been cited as a significant limiting factor for high levels of milkfat production. For example: "Droughts of significant economic impact on the agricultural economy occur on average once in every three years" (Male 1978). "Dairy farming is a major part of Northland agriculture but the climate is not very suitable for dairy production . and droughts from January/February to April are not uncommon" (M.A.F. 1980). At other times though, Northland has been described quite differently, du Faur (1962) wrote: "Some districts such as South Auckland, parts of the Waikato, Manawatu, Wairarapa ___ will benefit from the provision of (summer) supplementary feed in a majority of seasons. Other areas such as Bay of Plenty, North Auckland . rarely need summer supplementary feeding". So it woud seem that Northland has a real Jekyll and Hyde character. Despite the different views, over 2000 farmers find dairy farming to be the most economic land use. Northland produces around 13% of New Zealand's annual dairy export earnings. It is in fact, a larger dairy production area than either the Bay of Plenty, Manawatu/- Wairarapa or the South Island. Today the industry in Northland is stronger than ever. This paper examines the "summer drought" view of Northland by comparing production trends with the South Auckland (Waikato) region - the "Mecca" of New Zealand's dairy industry.
PASTURE RENOVATION FOR INCREASED DAIRY PRODUCTION
Authors: Chestnut K.
Published: July 2020

At this stage the new grass paddocks are providing more grass after three years than other equivalent paddocks on the farm. The benefit will, I hope, continue for longer than this. At this stage I will continue to renovate two paddocks each year as finance permits. The basic seed mix will continue to be Ellett ryegrass and Pitau white clover but I will try other species such as Pawera red clover which I wanted to use this last autumn but no seed was available. In the district generally I have noted an interest in pasture renovation over the last two seasons and I can see that the Dairy Board will continue to be embarassed with the increase in production from the Northland area.
THE IMPACT OF BLACK BEETLE AND BLACK FIELD CRICKET ON NORTHLAND PASTURES
Authors: Blank R.H.
Published: July 2020

Black beetle (Heteronychus arator) and black field cricket (Teleogryllus commodus) may attack pastures in Northland, particularly in dry years. No appreciable pasture production responses to controlling black beetle with insecticides have been measured. In contrast, significant production increases have been obtained from controlling crickets. Crickets can be readily assessed using a simple flushing technique. Effective and economx control can be achieved using maldison grain baits. Drought or black beetle have been wrongly blamed for cricket damage. It is therefore important to correctly identify pest problems so that control measures can be successfully carried out. Keywords: black beetle, black field cricket, damage, control.
SOME OBSERVATIONS OF PASTURE MANAGEMENT EFFECTS ON GRASS GRUB, PORINA AND EARTHWORM POPULATIONS
Authors: Brock J.L.
Published: July 2020

Changes in management practices will automatically alter the equilibrium between organisms making up the pasture ecosystem with results not necessarily beneficial to the economic production of the system. Indications of these interactions were observed and monitored in pasture management pasture species trials at Palmerston North. Grass grub attack developed more rapidly, and populations reached higher levels under rotational grazing than set stocking. Porina caterpillar populations tended to show the reverse with higher populations under set stocking than rotational grazing. Earthworm populations were higher under set stocking with a greater proportion of burrowing types, compared to rotational grazing which favoured more of the surface feeding species. These changes are discussed in terms of differences in pasture structure and defoliation patterns affecting microclimate and food supplies for the survival of these organisms. Keywords: Pasture management, rotational grazing, set stocktng, grass grub, porina, earthworms, pasture structure, pasture biomass.
CONSERVATION OBJECTIVES IN PASTORALISM
Authors: Meurk Colin D.
Published: July 2020

New Zealand, because of its geographic isolation, harbours unique biological qualities. Human occupation inevitably disrupted this natural order. Gradual degradation of these natural qualities can easily go unnoticed and unchecked. The bulk of our nature reserves are on land unsuited to agriculture, whereas the significance and vulnerability of our total natural heritage requires a reserve network representing all land classes. To ensure protection of vital natural areas they must be of viable proportions and segregated from incompatible uses. There are practical and spiritual reasons for nature conservation which offer beneficial options for land use. A wide range of conservation measures is available to the landowner. Keywords: farm tourism, land management, multipurpose, nature conservation, reserves
Дипломатична діяльність В’ячеслава Липинського (1918-1919 рр.)
Authors: Datskiv Ihor
Published: July 2020

Охарактеризовано дипломатичну діяльність одного із провідних громадсько-політичних діячів Української держави В’ячеслава Казимировича Липинського. Проаналізовано державотворчу роботу в роки Української революції та визначено основні напрями політичної діяльності. Встановлено, що найбільш всебічно проявити дипломатичний хист, політичні переконання та почуття справжнього патріота своєї держави В. Липинський зміг на посаді посла в Австрії при Гетьманаті П. Скоропадського та уряді Директорії УНР. З’ясовано, що поразку національно-визвольних змагань сприйняв як втрату реальної можливості відродження української державності та самостійного розвитку українського народу.
Пореформене українське село в аграрних студіях науковців київської школи
Authors: Svyaschenko Zinaida
Published: July 2020

Проаналізовано науковий доробок представників Київської школи істориків-аграрників доби незалежності, присвячений висвітленню проблематики життєдіяльності пореформеного українського села. Здійснено історіографічний аналіз сучасної вітчизняної наукової літератури щодо розкриття малодосліджених аспектів аграрної історії другої половини ХІХ – початку ХХ ст. загалом та історії українського селянства, зокрема. Зроблено спробу систематизувати досягнення сучасної вітчизняної історіографії з даної проблематики.
Историко-культурное наследие как социальный феномен
Authors: Griffen Leonid , Ryzheva Nadiia
Published: July 2020

В статье представлено исследование социальной природы историко-культурного наследия. Показано, что оно характеризует объекты материальной культуры прошлого, которые утратили свое первоначальное утилитарное назначение и превратились в материальные свидетельства ушедших культурных и исторических процессов. Сегодня такие памятники истории и культуры являются носителями семантической и аксиологической информации о данных процессах и поэтому, будучи включенными в современный культурный контекст, способствуют социализации индивидов.
Faktor Umur Dan Paritas Ibu Berisiko Terjadinya Ketuban Pecah Sebelum Waktunya Pada Ibu Bersalin
Authors: Prianita Ayutrivoni , Hermain Hermain , Afsari Sri Dewi
Published: July 2020

Ketuban Pecah Sebelum Waktunya (KPSW) merupakan salah satu penyulit dalam kehamilan dan persalinan yang berperan dalam meningkatkan kesakitan dan kematian maternal-perinatal yang dapat disebabkan oleh adanya infeksi, Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang berhubungan dengan KPSW pada ibu bersalin di RSUD Depati Hamzah Pangkalpinang Tahun 2016. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain case control. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh ibu yang bersalin dan tercatat di rekam medik di RSUD Depati Hamzah Pangkalpinang Tahun 2016 yang berjumlah 1156 orang dengan jumlah kasus KPSW berjumlah 258 orang, yang terdiri dari 129 kasus dan 129 kontrol. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan Sistematic Random Sampling. Pengumpulan data dengan mencatat data rekam medik di RSUD Depati Hamzah Pangkalpinang Tahun 2016. Data di analisa secara univariat dan bivariat dengan menggunakan Uji Chi Square.Hasil penelitian menyimpulkan bahwa faktor-faktor yang berhubungan dengan KPSW di RSUD Depati Hamzah Pangkalpinang Tahun 2016 adalah Umur ibu (p = 0,000) dan Paritas (p = 0,011). Variabel yang tidak berhubungan dengan KPSW adalah Pekerjaan ibu (p = 0,295) dan Pendidikan ibu (p = 0,262). Faktor yang paling dominan adalah Umur ibu (OR = 17,856). Disarankan kepada RSUD Depati Hamzah Pangkalpinang Perlu penyuluhan secara intensif untuk menambah pengetahuan ibu khususnya tentang umur ibu dan pentingnya untuk memperhatikan umur pada saat hamil.
Faktor-Faktor Perilaku Ibu Yang Berhubungan Dengan Kejadian Diare Pada Balita
Authors: Dewi Lisneni , Meliani Revi
Published: July 2020

Diare merupakan penyebab kematian terbesar ke dua pada Balita di Dunia setelah penyakit Pneumonia. Diare adalah suau keadaan peradangan pada mukosa lambung dan usus halus yang mengakibatkan pengekuaran feases yang tidak normal dan tidak seperti biasanya dengan konsistensi lembek atau cair, bahkan dapat juga berupa air saja dengan frekuensi yang lebih sering dari biasanya (3 kali atau lebih) dalam satu hari. Berdasarkan laporan Tahun 2015 sampai Tahun 2017 Puskesmas Kenten Kota Palembang penderita diare pada balita masih sangat tinggi, dan pada Tahun 2018 dari bulan Januari sampai dengan Mei terdapat 150 penderita diare balita. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor perilaku ibu yang berhubungan dengan kejadian diare pada balita. Jenis penelitian ini adalah deskriptif analitik yaitu penelitian yang menggali bagaimana fenomena kesehatan terjadi dengan pendekatan cross sectional dimana variabel independen dan variabel dependen di observasi sekaligus pada saat yang sama. Populasi penelitian adalah seluruh ibu yang memiliki balita yang diare dan sampel yang diambil berjumlah 60 orang. Tehnik pengambilan sampel dilaksanakan dengan cara accidental sampling. Faktor-faktor perilaku ibu yang diukur meliputi, pemberian ASI, cara penggunaan botol susu dan kebiasaan mencuci tangan. Data dianalisis dengan chi-square. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dari kejadian diare pada balita dengan diare  berat sebesar 53.3% dan dengan diare ringan sebesar 46,7%. Hasil analisis bivariat menunjukkan bahwa ketiga faktor perilaku ibu ada hubungan dengan kejadian diare pada balita pada variabel pemberian ASI didapatkan PR=2,731, penggunaan botol susu didapatkan PR=2,551 dan kebiasaan mencuci tangan PR=1,737.
Hubungan Pengetahuan, Sikap, Dan Kegiatan Unit Kegiatan Sekolah (UKS) Dengan Prilaku Merokok
Authors: Zamziri Zamziri , Randian Randian
Published: July 2020

Merokok pada remaja merupakan suatu pemandangan yang sangat tidak asing. Kebiasaan merokok dianggap dapat memberikan kenikmatan bagi perokok sendiri maupun orang disekitarnya. Berbagai kandungan zat yang terdapat di dalam rokok memberikan dampak negatif pada tubuh penghisapnya. Tujuan Penelitian ini untuk mengetahui hubungan antara pengetahuan, sikap, kegiatan UKS dengan perilaku merokok. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan design Cros sectioanal.  Jumlah sampel sebanyak 49 siswa laki-laki kelas X, XI, XII SMA 1 Toboali menggunakan tekhnik purposive sampling. Hasil analsia data menggunakan uji chi square. Hasil penelitian didapatkan bahwa terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara pengetahuan, sikap, dan kegiatan UKS dengan perilaku merokok (p value 0,025, 0,025, & 0,098).  Bagi tenaga kesehatan disarankan untuk memberikan edukasi kepada remaja SMA tentang dampak merokok sehingga dapat meningkatkan kesadaran remaja untuktidak merokok.
Hubungan Pendidikan dan Pengetahuan Pemberian Susu Formula terhadap Kejadian Diare pada Anak Usia 0 – 2 Tahun
Authors: Yuniarti Evi , Vinnata Nora Novia
Published: July 2020

Susu formula merupakan media yang baik bagi pertumbuhan bakteri, sehingga kontaminasi mudah terjadi terutama jika persiapan dan pemberian kurang memperhatikan segi antiseptik. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif dengan menggunakan metode survei analitik dengan pendekatan cross sectional. Pengambilan sampel dalam penelitian ini dilakuka dengan metode non random (non Probability) sampling dengan menggunakan tekhnik accidental sampling yaitu pengambilan sampel secara accidental ini dilakukan dengan mengambil kasus atau responden yang kebetulan ada atau tersedia di suatu tempat sesuai dengan konteks penelitian yaitu sebanyak 64 responden. Hasil analisis responden dengan pendidikan tinggi ada 25,49% yang bayinya diare, sedangkan pendidikan rendah ada 69,23% yang bayinya mengalami diare, didapatkan p value = 0,007 lebih kecil dari α = 0,05 menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan bermakna antara pendidikan ibu dengan kejadian diare. responden yang mengetahui cara pemberian susu formula ada 7,14% yang bayinya mengalami diare. sedangkan responden yang tidak mengetahui cara pemberian susu formula ada 83,63% yang bayinya mengalami diare. Hasil analisis didapatkan p value = 0,000 lebih kecil dari α = 0,05 menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan bermakna antara pengetahuan ibu dengan kejadian diare. Responden yang tidak menggunakan susu formula yang mengalami diare yaitu 0%. Yang menggunakan susu formula yang mengalami diare yaitu 42,30%. Hasil analisis didapatkan p value = 0,005 lebih kecil dari α = 0,05 menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan bermakna antara pemberian susu formula terhadap kejadian diare.
Pelaksanaan Program KKN Berbasis Lingkungan, Literasi dan Kewirausahaan di MA Darul Ulum Karangpandan
Authors: ROKHMAWAN TRISTAN , Robi Mochamad Dai , Satya S Yudi Purwo , Zulmi M Asyrul , Jaenuri Abdul Kodir , Fakhruddin Malih
Published: July 2020

Tim pelaksana KKN di MA Darul Ulum Karangpandan melaksanakan 3 program, antara lain progam lingkungan, program literasi dan program kewirausahaan. Masalah yang dihadapi adalah kurangnya sikap kepeduliah terhadap lingkungan, pasifnya Gerakan Literasi Sekolah dan kurangnya wadah di bidang kewirausaan di sekolah. Pemecahan masalah yang dapat dilakukan dengan pendampingan yaitu memberikan pengetahuan, pemahaman, dan pelatihan perilaku. (1) Program lingkungan meliputi kegiatan sosialisasi tanaman toga, sosialisasi pembuatan pot, edukasi tentang teknik static solution culture, sosialisasi Penggolongan sampah dan pengadaan taman sekolah. Program lingkungan bertujuan untuk menumbuhkan sikap peduli terhadap kearsian lingkungan di Sekolah. (2) Program Literasi meliputi pembuatan mading, administrasi perpustakaan, identitas kelas dan desain grafis. Program literasi mampu meningkatkan kesadaran terhadap pentingnya gerakan literasi sekolah. (3) Program kewirausahaan meliputi pelatihan pembuatan produk, pelatihan pemasaran produk dan pelatihan manajemen keuangan. Program kewirausahaan berguna dalam meningkatkan kesadaran akan pentingnya kewirausahaan yang melibatkan siswa agar mereka merasakan manfaatnya secara langsung. Metode kegiatan menggunakan : (1) penyuluhan atau sosialisasi, dan (2) metode seminar loka karya. Pada akhirnya Tim KKN STKIP PGRI Pasuruan mampu membuat sekolah di pinggir proyek jalan tol Pas-Pro ini menjadi lebih sejuk.
Pelatihan Grafik Maple dalam Pembelajaran Matematika
Authors: Marsitin Retno
Published: July 2020

Nowadays, the mathematics teachers have to implement mathematics learning using technology, especially for vocational mathematics teachers. Technological applications that can be utilized in learning mathematics include maple. Maple is mathematical software that integrates computational capabilities both symbolic and numerical, graphics are very influential to help in solving mathematical problems. The method offered in solving partner problems is by organizing maple graph training and mentoring in applying maple graphics in mathematics learning. The success of this community service activity is supported by some factors, namely: high interest and desire in participating in training activities to completion, interest and support from Singosari PGRI Vocational School as a partner school in maple graph training activities, active involvement so that there is mutual sharing of knowledge about maple graphics. The community service activity with maple graphic training gets a positive response from vocational teachers with an achievement of 93%, the results of the presentation of maple graphics with very good achievements are 87%. This community service activity with maple graphic training for Singosari Vocational School teachers are very useful in adding insight of computer knowledge, especially the use of maple graphics, and fostering creativity and skills in using maple graphics in mathematics learning.
Anlotinib Combined With Chemoradiotherapy Exhibits Significant Therapeutic Efficacy in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Shi Jingzhen , Zhang Yingjie , Wang Jinzhi , Li Jianbin , Li Zhenxiang
Published: July 2020

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of anlotinib combined with chemoradiotherapy for treating esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) using patient-derived xenografts (PDXs).

Methods: PDX-bearing mice were randomly divided into five groups, as follows: control group receiving normal saline, the group receiving radiotherapy, the group receiving cisplatin combined with radiotherapy, the group receiving anlotinib combined with radiotherapy, and the group receiving anlotinib, and cisplatin combined with radiotherapy. Tumor volumes and body weights were measured three times weekly for 2 weeks. The PDXs were initially assessed by comparing the histology of the original patient tumor tissues with that of the corresponding serially passaged xenografts by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and P63 staining. Then, expression of Bax, c-PARP, PCNA, and CD31 was detected using immunohistochemistry, and apoptosis was detected by a TUNEL assay. Cytokines released into plasma were analyzed using protein chip technology. Finally, two case studies of ESCC patients were presented to further verify the results observed in the PDX models.

Results: The pathological characteristics of the serially passaged patient tumor-derived xenografts established in our study were in line with those of the original ESCC patient samples. The group receiving anlotinib and cisplatin plus radiotherapy exhibited the strongest antitumor response among the groups. Moreover, the ideal anticancer effects of anlotinib combined with chemoradiotherapy observed in clinical patients were consistent with the results observed in the PDX models, and no serious side effects were observed during treatment.

Conclusions: Combination therapy with anlotinib and chemoradiotherapy may be an effective regimen for the treatment of advanced ESCC.
Response of Yellow Lupine to the Proximity of Other Plants and Unplanted Path in Strip Intercropping
Authors: Gałęzewski Lech , Jaskulska Iwona , Wilczewski Edward , Wenda-Piesik Anna
Published: July 2020

Taking into account the climatic conditions of central Europe, yellow lupine is often considered as an alternative to soybean, which has significantly higher thermal requirements. Attempts to intercrop yellow lupine with cereals have often resulted in failure. In combined production, the relative amount of lupine has proven to be considerably smaller given the sowing mix proportions and its yield potential in pure stand. Low yield is attributed to lupine’s low competitive potential, therefore strip intercropping presents a viable alternative. The main goal of the experiment was to determine the response of yellow lupine to the neighboring presence of wheat, triticale, barley, and pea, as well as to estimate the production effects of lupine in strip intercropping. Field trials were carried out in Poland (53°13′ N; 17°51′ E) in the years 2008–2010. The experimental factor consisted of row layout: a four-row separation between lupine and the neighboring species. The proximity of cereals and peas proved to be most unfavorable to yellow lupine. It was determined that yellow lupine was most intolerant of barley and least affected by the proximity of peas. Depending on the neighboring species, adverse effects extended up to the third row of lupine’s canopy. A beneficial alternative for the production effect involves an introduction of a path separating the lupine strip from the tested species.
Linking Endophytic Fungi to Medicinal Plants Therapeutic Activity. A Case Study on Asteraceae
Authors: Caruso Gianluca , Abdelhamid Magdi T. , Kalisz Andrzej , Sekara Agnieszka
Published: July 2020

Endophytes are isolated from every plant species investigated to date, so the metabolome coevolution has been affecting the plants’ (microbiota) ethnobotanic, especially therapeutic, usage. Asteraceae fulfill the rationale for plant selection to isolate endophytes since most of the species of this family have a long tradition of healing usage, confirmed by modern pharmacognosy. The present review compiles recent references on the endophyte−Asteraceae spp. interactions, targeting the secondary metabolites profile as created by both members of this biological system. Endophyte fungi associated with Asteraceae have been collected globally, however, dominant taxa that produce bioactive compounds were specific for the plant populations of different geographic origins. Endophytic fungi richness within the host plant and the biological activity were positively associated. Moreover, the pharmacological action was linked to the plant part, so differential forms of biological interactions in roots, stem, leaves, inflorescences were developed between endophytic fungi and host plants. The comparative analysis of the Asteraceae host and/or fungal endophyte therapeutic activity showed similarities that need a future explanation on the metabolome level.
Rhizobacteria Isolated from Saline Soil Induce Systemic Tolerance in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) against Salinity Stress
Authors: Ilyas Noshin , Mazhar Roomina , Yasmin Humaira , Khan Wajiha , Iqbal Sumera , Enshasy Hesham El , Dailin Daniel Joe
Published: July 2020

Halo-tolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) have the inherent potential to cope up with salinity. Thus, they can be used as an effective strategy in enhancing the productivity of saline agro-systems. In this study, a total of 50 isolates were screened from the rhizospheric soil of plants growing in the salt range of Pakistan. Out of these, four isolates were selected based on their salinity tolerance and plant growth promotion characters. These isolates (SR1. SR2, SR3, and SR4) were identified as Bacillus sp. (KF719179), Azospirillum brasilense (KJ194586), Azospirillum lipoferum (KJ434039), and Pseudomonas stutzeri (KJ685889) by 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis. In vitro, these strains, in alone and in a consortium, showed better production of compatible solute and phytohormones, including indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA), cytokinin (CK), and abscisic acid (ABA), in culture conditions under salt stress. When tested for inoculation, the consortium of all four strains showed the best results in terms of improved plant biomass and relative water content. Consortium-inoculated wheat plants showed tolerance by reduced electrolyte leakage and increased production of chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll, and osmolytes, including soluble sugar, proline, amino acids, and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase), upon exposure to salinity stress (150 mM NaCl). In conclusion, plant growth-promoting bacteria, isolated from salt-affected regions, have strong potential to mitigate the deleterious effects of salt stress in wheat crop, when inoculated. Therefore, this consortium can be used as potent inoculants for wheat crop under prevailing stress conditions.
A Dietary Sugarcane-Derived Polyphenol Mix Reduces the Negative Effects of Cyclic Heat Exposure on Growth Performance, Blood Gas Status, and Meat Quality in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Shakeri Majid , Cottrell Jeremy J. , Wilkinson Stuart , Le Hieu H. , Suleria Hafiz A. R. , Warner Robyn D. , Dunshea Frank R.
Published: July 2020

Heat stress (HS) compromises growth performance and meat quality of broiler chickens by interrupting lipid and protein metabolism, resulting in increased oxidative damages. The experiment attempted to investigate whether dietary polyphenols (Polygain (POL)) could ameliorate the aforementioned adverse effects of HS on performance and meat quality. One hundred and twenty one day-old-male chicks were allocated to two temperature conditions, thermoneutral (TN) or HS, and fed with either a control diet (CON) or the CON plus four different doses of POL (2, 4, 6 and 10 g/kg). Heat stress caused respiratory alkalosis as evidenced by increased rectal temperature (p < 0.001) and respiration rate (p < 0.001) due to increased blood pH (p < 0.001). Heat stress decreased final body weight (p = 0.061) and breast muscle water content (p = 0.013) while POL improved both (p = 0.002 and p = 0.003, respectively). Heat stress amplified muscle damages, indicated by increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (p < 0.001) and reduced myofibril fragmentation index (p = 0.006) whereas POL improved both (p = 0.037 and p = 0.092, respectively). Heat stress impaired meat tenderness (p < 0.001) while POL improved it (p = 0.003). In conclusion, HS impaired growth performance and meat quality whereas POL ameliorated these responses in a dose-dependent manner, and effects of POL were evident under both temperature conditions.
Machine-Learning Techniques Can Enhance Dairy Cow Estrus Detection Using Location and Acceleration Data
Authors: Wang Jun , Bell Matt , Liu Xiaohang , Liu Gang
Published: July 2020

The aim of this study was to assess combining location, acceleration and machine learning technologies to detect estrus in dairy cows. Data were obtained from 12 cows, which were monitored continuously for 12 days. A neck mounted device collected 25,684 records for location and acceleration. Four machine-learning approaches were tested (K-nearest neighbor (KNN), back-propagation neural network (BPNN), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and classification and regression tree (CART)) to automatically identify cows in estrus from estrus indicators determined by principal component analysis (PCA) of twelve behavioral metrics, which were: duration of standing, duration of lying, duration of walking, duration of feeding, duration of drinking, switching times between activity and lying, steps, displacement, average velocity, walking times, feeding times, and drinking times. The study showed that the neck tag had a static and dynamic positioning accuracy of 0.25 ± 0.06 m and 0.45 ± 0.15 m, respectively. In the 0.5-h, 1-h, and 1.5-h time windows, the machine learning approaches ranged from 73.3 to 99.4% for sensitivity, from 50 to 85.7% for specificity, from 77.8 to 95.8% for precision, from 55.6 to 93.7% for negative predictive value (NPV), from 72.7 to 95.4% for accuracy, and from 78.6 to 97.5% for F1 score. We found that the BPNN algorithm with 0.5-h time window was the best predictor of estrus in dairy cows. Based on these results, the integration of location, acceleration, and machine learning methods can improve dairy cow estrus detection.
Phenotyping of the Visceral Adipose Tissue Using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in Pigs
Authors: C. Weigand Anna , Schweizer Helen , Aline Knob Deise , Scholz Armin M.
Published: July 2020

The objective of this study was to phenotype visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in pigs. In this context, the ability to detect VAT by using the DXA CoreScan mode within the enCORE software, version 17 (GE Healthcare) was evaluated in comparison with MRI measurements (Siemens Magnetom C!) of the same body region. A number of 120 crossbred pigs of the F1 and F2 generation, with the parental breeds Large White, Landrace, Piétrain, and Duroc, were examined at an age of 150 days. A whole-body scan in two different modes (“thick”, “standard”) was carried out by a GE Lunar iDXA scanner. Very strong relationships (R2 = 0.95, RMSE = 175 cm3) were found for VAT between the two DXA modes. The comparison of VAT measured by MRI and DXA shows high linear relationships (“thick”: R2 = 0.76, RMSE = 399.25 cm3/“standard”: R2 = 0.71, RMSE = 443.42 cm3), but is biased, according to the Bland–Altman analysis. A variance analysis of VAT shows significant differences for both DXA modes and for MRI between male and female pigs, as well as between F1 and F2. In conclusion, DXA “CoreScan” has the ability to estimate VAT in pigs with a close relationship to MRI but needs bias correction.
Pilot Investigation on the Presence of Anti-Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Antibodies in Piglet Processing Fluids
Authors: Di Bartolo Ilaria , De Sabato Luca , Chelli Eleonora , Alborali Giovanni Loris , Tonni Matteo , Monini Marina , De Lucia Alessia , Ostanello Fabio
Published: July 2020

Identifying Hepatitis E virus (HEV)-positive pig farms is important to implement surveillance programs for this emerging zoonotic agent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of serosanguineous fluids obtained as part of castration practice (processing fluids (PFs)) to detect anti-HEV antibodies in newborn piglets. Ninety-five paired serum and PF samples were collected from piglets of 29 different litters and tested with a commercial ELISA kit. A significant positive correlation (Spearman’s rho: 0.600; p < 0.01) was found between anti-HEV antibodies in serum and PF samples. In 26 out of 29 litters (89.7%), there was at least one positive piglet in the serum. Sixteen litters out of 29 (55.2%) were also positive in PFs. To simulate the use of PF as pooled samples, the limit of detection of the ELISA was assessed mixing the PF sample with strong, medium, medium-weak and weak ELISA titres with 3, 4, 5 and 6 negative PF samples. Our results suggest that it is still possible to identify a positive PF pool when at least one individual PF sample with medium or strong antibody levels is mixed with 5 or 6 individual negative PF samples. The detection of anti-HEV maternal-derived antibodies in PF confirms a past exposure of sows to the virus. PF may represent a rapid, noninvasive and economical tool to identify HEV-positive farms.
Removal of Chromium(VI) by Chitosan Beads Modified with Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS)
Authors: Du Xiaoyu , Kishima Chihiro , Zhang Haixin , Miyamoto Naoto , Kano Naoki
Published: July 2020

In this study, chitosan beads modified with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) were successfully synthesized and employed for the removal of chromium(VI) (Cr(VI)). The adsorption performance of the adsorbent (SDS-chitosan beads) was examined by batch experiments. The partition coefficient (PC) as well as the adsorption capacity were evaluated to assess the true performance of the adsorbent in this work. The adsorbent (SDS-chitosan beads) showed a maximum Cr(VI) adsorption capacity of 3.23 mg·g−1 and PC of 9.5 mg·g−1·mM−1 for Cr(VI). The prepared adsorbent was characterized by different techniques such as scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). We used inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the determination of Cr(VI) in solution. The experimental data could be well-fitted by pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm models. The thermodynamic studies indicated that the adsorption process was favorable under the higher temperature condition. The SDS-modified chitosan beads synthesized in this work represent a promising adsorbent for removing Cr(VI).
Model for Elimination of Mixed Noise from MRI Heart Images
Authors: Shlykov Vladyslav , Kotovskyi Vitalii , Višniakov Nikolaj , Šešok Andžela
Published: July 2020

A method for the preliminary processing of MRI images of the heart that allows for the elimination of fluctuation and impulse noise from useful signals is proposed. These types of noise are due to the regular geometric structure of the photoelectric elements of the MRI scanner matrix and the structure of the signal transmission channel. The aim of this work is to develop a comprehensive mathematical model for eliminating noise in the signal of an MRI scanner. In this work, mathematical models of linear and median filtering of impulse noise, fluctuation, and geometric noise are implemented. The mathematical models consist of the combined use of linear and median filters for recording MRI images of the heart. In the experiments, real MRI images of the heart from six patients with different diseases were used after noise was added to them. We were able to eliminate the impulse noise, geometric noise, and fluctuation noise in the MRI images by applying our filtering techniques. The filtering technique not only removed the noise, but also increased the contrast of the cancerous volumetric heterogeneous formations in the heart region.
Depth of Interaction Estimation in a Preclinical PET Scanner Equipped with Monolithic Crystals Coupled to SiPMs Using a Deep Neural Network
Authors: Sanaat Amirhossein , Zaidi Habib
Published: July 2020

The scintillation light distribution produced by photodetectors in positron emission tomography (PET) provides the depth of interaction (DOI) information required for high-resolution imaging. The goal of positioning techniques is to reverse the photodetector signal’s pattern map to the coordinates of the incident photon energy position. By considering the DOI information, monolithic crystals offer good spatial, energy, and timing resolution along with high sensitivity. In this work, a supervised deep neural network was used for the approximation of DOI and to assess through Monte Carlo (MC) simulations the performance on a small-animal PET scanner consisting of ten 50 × 50 × 10 mm3 continuous Lutetium-Yttrium Oxyorthosilicate doped with Cerium (LYSO: Ce) crystals and 12 × 12 silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) arrays. The scintillation position was predicted by a multilayer perceptron neural network with 256 units and 4 layers whose inputs were the number of fired pixels on the SiPM plane and the total deposited energy. A GEANT4 MC code was used to generate training and test datasets by altering the photons’ incident position, energy, and direction, as well as readout of the photodetector output. The calculated spatial resolutions in the X-Y plane and along the Z-axis were 0.96 and 1.02 mm, respectively. Our results demonstrated that using a multilayer perceptron (MLP)-based positioning algorithm in the detector modules, constituting the PET scanner, enhances the spatial resolution by approximately 18% while the absolute sensitivity remains constant. The proposed algorithm proved its ability to predict the DOI for depth under 7 mm with an error below 8.7%.
Molecular Insights of Copper Sulfate Exposure-Induced Nephrotoxicity: Involvement of Oxidative and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathways
Authors: Dai Chongshan , Liu Qiangqiang , Li Daowen , Sharma Gaurav , Xiong Jianli , Xiao Xilong
Published: July 2020

The precise pathogenic mechanism in Cu exposure-cause nephrotoxicity remains unclear. This study investigated the underlying molecular mechanism of copper sulfate (CuSO4)-induced nephrotoxicity. Mice were treated with CuSO4 at 50, 100, 200 mg/kg/day or co-treated with CuSO4 (200 mg/kg/day) and 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA, 100 mg/kg/day) for 28 consecutive days. HEK293 cells were treated with CuSO4 (400 μM) with or without superoxide dismutase, catalase or 4-PBA for 24 h. Results showed that CuSO4 exposure can cause renal dysfunction and tubular necrosis in the kidney tissues of mice. CuSO4 exposure up-regulated the activities and mRNA expression of caspases-9 and -3 as well as the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), GRP94, DNA damage-inducible gene 153 (GADD153/CHOP), caspase-12 mRNAs in the kidney tissues. Furthermore, superoxide dismutase and catalase pre-treatments partly inhibited CuSO4-induced cytotoxicity by decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, activities of caspases-9 and -3 and DNA fragmentations in HEK293 cells. 4-PBA co-treatment significantly improved CuSO4-induced cytotoxicity in HEK293 cells and inhibited CuSO4 exposure-induced renal dysfunction and pathology damage in the kidney tissues. In conclusion, our results reveal that oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress contribute to CuSO4-induced nephrotoxicity. Our study highlights that targeting endoplasmic reticulum and oxidative stress may offer an approach for Cu overload-caused nephrotoxicity.
Molecular Features of Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma: An Infrequent Subtype of Triple Negative Breast Carcinoma
Authors: González-Martínez Silvia , Pérez-Mies Belén , Carretero-Barrio Irene , Palacios-Berraquero María Luisa , Perez-García José , Cortés Javier , Palacios José
Published: July 2020

Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) is a heterogeneous group of infrequent invasive carcinomas that display differentiation of the neoplastic epithelium towards squamous cells and/or mesenchymal-type elements. Most MBC have a triple negative phenotype and poor prognosis. Thus, MBC have worse survival rates than other invasive breast carcinomas, including other triple negative breast carcinomas (TNBC). In this study, we reviewed the molecular features of MBC, pointing out the differences among subtypes. The most frequently mutated genes in MBC were TP53 and PIK3CA. Additionally, mutations in the other genes of the PI3K/AKT pathway indicated its importance in the pathogenesis of MBC. Regarding copy number variations (CNVs), MYC was the most frequently amplified gene, and the most frequent gene loss affected the CDKN2A/CDKN2B locus. Furthermore, the pattern of mutations and CNVs of MBC differed from those reported in other TNBC. However, the molecular profile of MBC was not homogeneous among histological subtypes, being the alterations in the PI3K pathway most frequent in spindle cell carcinomas. Transcriptomic studies have demonstrated an epithelial to mesenchymal program activation and the enrichment of stemness genes in most MBC. In addition, current studies are attempting to define the immune microenvironment of these tumors. In conclusion, due to specific molecular features, MBC have a different clinical behavior from other types of TNBC, being more resistant to standard chemotherapy. For this reason, new therapeutic approaches based on tumor molecular characteristics are needed to treat MBC.