bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced thermotolerance of photosystem II by elevated pore-water salinity in the coastal marsh graminoid Sporobolus pumilus
Authors: Touchette BW , Schmitt SR , Moody JWG
Published: July 2020

In coastal marsh ecosystems, high salinities, anoxic waterlogged soils, and elevated summer temperatures often promote physiological strain that results in only a few tolerant halophytic species. Although not well understood, plant physiological responses to multiple stressors can be complex and may involve intensifying or offsetting reactions. In this study, we investigated physiological responses to combined salinity and high temperature in the coastal marsh graminoid Sporobolus pumilus (syn. Spartina patens). Specifically, we considered changes in plant-water relations and Photosystem II (PSII) behavior (involving chlorophyll [chl] a fluorescence) in heat-shocked plants that were acclimated to different salinities (0, 15, and 30 psu). Higher salinities fostered lower stomatal conductance (g), lower leaf-water potential (Ψleaf) and lower tissue-water content (θ), as well as decreased potential quantum yield (Fv/Fm) and decreased excitation energy capture efficiencies of open reaction centers (Fv’/Fm’). Heat-shocked plants acclimated to freshwater only had decreased Fv/Fm and PSII performance index (PIABS). Interestingly, there were no changes in chl a fluorescent outputs in heat-shocked plants acclimated to moderate salinities, and minimal changes in plants acclimated to high salinities. Approximately 25% of the heat-shocked S. pumilus in freshwater revealed a K-step in their polyphasic chl a fluorescent transients (OJIP procedure); K-steps were not observed in salt-treated plants. This suggests that, for plants residing in freshwater, heat-shock promoted disturbances in the PSII reaction centers and, in some cases, disrupted the oxygen-evolving complex. These PSII disruptions were either absent or less intense in salinity-treated plants, indicating that acclimation to environmental salts may provide PSII thermostability in S. pumilus.
Effects of withholding fertiliser on pasture production and phosphate cycling in hill country
Authors: Rowarth J.S. , Gillingham A.G.
Published: July 2020

A large-scale phosphate (P) fertiliser grazing trial was carried out at Whatawhata Research Centre between 1980 and 1984. The effect of 5 fertiliser rates (10, 20 30, 50 or 100 kg P/ha) on pasture production, plant P uptake, dung P distribution, dung decomposition and Olsen P concentration were monitored on 4 slope groups (campsites, O-10"; easy, 1 I-20"; moderate, 21-30" and steep, 31" +). Soils collected from each slope and fertiliser treatment were used in a pot trial to investigate the size of the plant available P pool. Results can be used to interpret data from field trials where fertiliser has been withheld. Initially, pasture production or Olsen P will change little because the most productive areas of the paddock receive large amounts of dung P which buffer the effect of fertiliser withdrawal. On these areas P is cycled more rapidly than on steep slopes, further buffering the system against P deficiency. Small changes in Olsen P do not reflect the more rapid changes in inorganic P or plant-available P. As inorganic P becomes depleted, plant P uptake decreases. The associated decrease in dung P return and the slower rate of dung decomposition contribute to a slowing of the P cycle. The net effect is less feed and slower regrowth after grazing. Recovering from this state will require not only P fertiliser but also time for high producing pasture species to regenerate. Keywords phosphate cycling, topdressing, fertiliser, pasture production, hill country, dung
An investigation of farm restructuring and sustainable land use - Tutira region, northern Hawke's Bay
Authors: Brown I.C. , Black R.D. , King J.M.
Published: July 2020

The severity of permanent damage caused by Cyclone Bola to an estimated 65 000 ha in northern Hawke's Bay is of sufficient magnitude to necessitate complete changes in land use over that region as a whole. Traditional responses to this problem have included a range of incentives which have been principally designed to ensure the continuation of the existing pastoral use. Recent studies have emphasised the need to rationalise land use on the basis of long term sustainability. The costs of facilitating and permanently establishing this change in land use will be high, and an appropriate sponsor must be found, as market forces and commercial enterprise alone will have insufficient incentive to effect the changes. Keywords sustainable land use, farm restructuring, Hawke's Bay
Hill country goat farming in perspective
Authors: Batten G.J.
Published: July 2020

Commerical fibre-goat farming has grown in the last 10 years from nil to 1.25 million goats on 9437 farms producing $13.7m fibre income. Development has come through having potentially highly productive goats, mains-powered electric fences to control them, investment capital from outside the industry, and pioneer dedication that also produced an integrated fibre handling and marketing operation, all managed by adaptable and innovative hill country farmers. Goat husbandry and management, including breeding, fibre handling, stocking rates, pasture and weed feeding, need a different attitude and philosophy to those needed for sheep and cattle traditionally farmed on hill country. Fast industry growth has outstripped relevant information and the farm management profession has assisted farmers to develop techniques and systems. Research is now producing some reasons for applied practices. Numbers of farmed goats are expected to continue to increase. Each hill country farm can have a profitable doe and wether flock integrated into sheep and cattle management. Keywords pasture, mohair, cashmere, cashgora, weed control
Tree species for sheltering hill pasture: some establishment results from a North Canterbury site
Authors: Sturrock J.W.
Published: July 2020

Species of Eucalyptus, Acacia, Robinia pseudoacacia, and 8 clonal derivatives of 3 species of hybrid cypresses were planted as a one-row shelterbelt on an exposed, unimproved and seasonally dry pasture in North Canterbury. Plots were single trees, replicated 4 times. The trial is located at 500 m altitude on a sunny, 30" slope exposed to north-west Fohn winds. Supplementary water, essential on such country, was applied initially to aid establishment. The performance of the 19 species and clones 4.5 years after planting is reported, based on survival, height growth, habit, and resistance to pests and diseases. Species are classed as 'acceptable', 'promising' and 'unsuitable', and include both tall (dominant) and complementary or 'infiller' shelter species. Currently, favourable species include Eucalyptus gunnii, E. nicholii and possibly E. tennairamis as dominants, and Acacia floribunda and x Cupressocyparis leylandii 'Leighton Green' as infillers. The importance of management for successful establishment and maintenance of effective shelter is stressed. Keywords shelter, drought, hill pasture, shelter tree species, tree clones, Euca!yptus species, Acacia species, Robinia pseudoacacia, x Cupressocypark species, hybrid cypresses, shelter management
Effects of establishment method, seeding rate and soil fertility on the growth and persistence of a prairie grass pasture in the Waikato
Authors: Thorn E.R. , Taylor M.J. , Wildermoth D.D.
Published: July 2020

The production and persistence of 'Grasslands Mama prairie grass were compared when direct drilled or oversown at a low or high seeding rate, and with or without extra fertiliser before planting. To estimate possible effects of insects on prairie grass persistence, insecticide was applied to a small area. Prairie grass growth during the first winter/spring was greater when direct drilled than when oversown, but thereafter treatment effects disappeared. High seed rate plots maintained higher prairie grass plant and tiller densities than low seed rate plots during the first year, but this did not affect annual herbage accumulation, Two years from sowing, prairie grass plant and tiller densities had declined to a low level in all plots. At this time, prairie grass tiller density and prairie grass content (% of DM) in insecticidetreated areas were about twice those in untreated areas. Mean total annual herbage accumulation in the second year had declined by 21% compared with the first. This work shows that prairie grass does not require extra fertiliser at planting when sown into a well maintained high fertility site, and that direct drilling at a low seed rate produces results similar to those of the traditional method of establishment of oversowing at a high seed rate. Insect attack contributed to poor prairie grass persistence. Keywords Bromus willdenowii Kunth, oversowing, direct drilling, pasture botanical composition, major element composition, tiller density, insect damage, annual herbage accumulation, root yields
Adjustment strategies used by hill country farmers
Authors: Nicholls J.R. , Gray D.I. , Wright A. , Fraser P.A.G.
Published: July 2020

A number of "progressive" farms in the Pongaroa district were surveyed in 1989 to learn how they had adjusted to deteriorating economic conditions over the period 1984/85 to 1987/88. The results from 20 case studies showed that the farmers had been successful in maintaining productivity. Total farm income per stock unit had increased by 1% and farm surplus by 8%. Adjustments featured improved performance from existing sheep and cattle enterprises, with greater emphasis on wool and dry stock. Diversification to new enterprises had not been an important change for any farmer. Expenditure on fertiliser, feed, repairs and maintenance, and vehicle expenses declined, and monitoring and control of expenditure increased. A comparison of farms that had maintained fertiliser applications with those that had not applied fertiliser showed little difference in gross farm income. Farmers were confident about the future viability of their farms, given a reduction in interest rates. A joint MAF/Federated Farmers' extension exercise in 1985 had been very successful in preparing farmers for the difficult period since 1984/85. Keywords farm adjustment, farm survey, Pongaroa district, hill country productivity, fertiliser use
Pasture management and pasture species for improved dry matter production in south Taranaki
Authors: Judd T.G. , Thomson N.A. , Mccallum D.A.
Published: July 2020

Dry matter (DM) production and seasonal distribution of old ryegrass/white clover pasture defoliated at 14- and 28day intervals, and new sowings of 'Grasslands Maru' phalaris (Phaluris aquatica L.), 'Grasslands Roa' tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), and 'Grasslands Kara' cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.) at 28day defoliation intervals were evaluated in an environment prone to grass grub damage and dry summer/autumn periods. Under a 28&y defoliation interval old ryegrass produced 2O%more DM that the 14-day defoliation interval, the difference occuring mainly in spring. Annual production, in the initial 4 years, of phalaris and tall fescue was respectively 17 % and 20 % more than that of old ryegrass. Phalaris was superior to old ryegrass in all seasons. Cocksfoot annual production was similar to that of old ryegrass, producing more in summer (9%) and autumn (19%) but 15% less in spring. Results from year 5 and 6 suggest that phalaris may not be as persistent as tall fescue. A 28-day rotation in spring is recommended to maximise production of old ryegrasslclover pasture. Phalaris and tall fescue are recommended as alternative species to old ryegrass in a grass grub prone and/or summer dry environment. Cocksfoot is not recommended. Keywords pasture production, seasonal distribution, cow requirements, old ryegrass, phalaris, tall fescue, cocksfoot
An integrated herbage system for Southland and South Otago
Authors: Brown Colin
Published: July 2020

The intensive sheep farming systems in place in Southland and South Otago are not capturing the genetic potential of lamb growth rates. Growth rates of works lambs average 100-140 g/day post weaning - less than half their genetic potential. The major reason for low growth rates of lambs is the lack of adequate quality feed. Planting a range of herbage species, with the area in each pasture species balanced with its growth characteristics, can give a balanced supply of quantity and quality feed sufficient to meet the requirements of the animal system. This leads to more balanced matching of feed supply and demand, both within the four seasons of the year, and from year to year. Keywords lamb growth, alternative species, integrated herbage
Increasing production through stocking rate
Authors: Nixon W.R.
Published: July 2020

Our objectives as farmers are to sustain a pastoral farming system that converts the optimum amount of grass grown to milk solids. The key to achieving this is by adopting the correct stocking rate. On our property,production has increased from 330 kg milkfat/ha in the first year to 430kg milkfat/ha in the second year. Conservation is not the preferred option when dealing with surpluses. A combination of supplements, nitrogen and off-farm grazing is used to make up the deficits. The absence of a mid-season slump in grass growth results in a sustained production curve through the season. This is a feature of borderdyke dairy farming. The correct stocking rate will enable costly grass surpluses and deficits to be kept to a minimum. The distribution of grass growth on our farm is what is really important, not total dry matter. The availability of crop residues and off-farm grazing in this area can be used profitably to make up feed deficits. Production Increases in the short term will come through improvements in sward composition, fertility, cow quality and irrigation. Longer term, production increases can come only through growing more grass and finding the correct blend of calving date, stocking rate and drying-off date, to utilise that grass to the optimum. Keywords: dairy farming, stocking rate, borderdyke, pasture management
Foliar condensed tannin levels in lotus species growing on limed and unlimed soils in South-Eastern Australia
Authors: Kelman W.M. , Tanner G.J.
Published: July 2020

Condensed tannin concentrations (% of dryweight) were measured in leaves of 22 accessions of Lotus corniculatus, 10 accessions of L. pedunculatus, 2 accessions of L. tenuis, and 1 accession of L. subbiflorus from plants growing on limed (pH = 5.2) and unlimed (pH = 4.3) soils near Canberra, A.C.T. There was a non-significant decrease in the mean condensed tannin concentration due to liming. The differences between species and between accessions within species were significant. For the L. corniculatus entries the range of tannin concentrations over the limed and unlimed sites was 0.15-7.28%, with a mean of 2.09%. The highest concentration was found in the otherwise promising accession CPI 66414. L. pedunculatus accessions ranged from 2.53-10.72% in tannin content, with a mean of 5.99%. Two Portuguese accessions that have promising agronomic features for coastal east Australian pastures had unacceptably high tannin levels above 7.50%. Genotypic differences accounted for a large proportion of the total variability for tannin production, so there are good prospects for the improvement of these species by selection and breeding. Keywords: Lotus corniculatus, L. pedunculatus, L. tenuis, L. subbiflorus, condensed tannins
A farmer's perception of practical seed production requirements
Authors: Mckay John
Published: July 2020

Perhaps just as strange to many grassland farmers as a cow jumping over the moon, would be a farming enterprise in which a combine harvester covers every hectare of the farm in order to gather the income for the business. But this is the lot of the Mid-Canterbury seed producer. Seed production on a specialist Mid-Canterbury farm can be divided into three main operations: planning, growing the crop, then harvesting and handling.
'Necton' suIla - A preliminary agronomic evaluation
Authors: Krishna Hari , Kemp Peter D. , Newton The Late Sally D.
Published: July 2020

'Necton' sulla (Hedysarum coronarium L.) is a perennial forage legume with potential to provide high quality, non-bloating feed. This trial examined the effect of grazing intensity and frequency on sulla over one year. Annual dry matter yields ranged from 7.4 to 18.0 t/ha. There was no difference in the yield of hard and lax-grazed plots but grazing in late autumn significantly decreased plant density and yield. Keywords 'Necton', sulla, legume, grazing management
Potential for seed production of non-traditional herbage species in New Zealand
Authors: Hampton J.G. , Hill M.J. , Rolston M.P.
Published: July 2020

The New Zealand herbage seed industry is looking to diversify and reduce its almost complete dependence on ryegrass and white clover. This review examines some opportunities and constraints to achieving this industry goal. In the near future, low input sustainable agriculture is likely to create a demand for seed of species such as alsike, Caucasian, zigzag and suckling clovers, crown vetch, velvet grass, white sweet clover, hairy canary clover, birdsfoot trefoil, perennial lupin, yarrow, tagasaste, wheat grass, oat grass, phalaris, paspalum, dogstail and sheep's burnet. There is also potential for export of herbage legumes such as annual medics, berseem clover, vetches, sainfoin, sulla, lotus and sweet clover, particularly to the Mediterranean region and Australia. The New Zealand seed industry has the strengths required to meet these challenges, and areas of lower fertility and free-draining irrigatable soils such as parts of Canterbury are likely to be highly suitable for non-conventional herbage legume seed production. At present there are important constraints, including lack of seed supply and therefore little demand, very limited seed production information, lack of available financial resources, and competition from overseas producers. These problems are discussed. However, they can be overcome, and by 1995 New Zealand could expect commercial seed production of birdsfoot trefoil, sulla, perennial lupin, serradella, Caucasian and zigzag clovers, velvet grass, smooth and upland bromes, phalaris, paspalum, dogstail, dryland bent, yarrow and sheep's burnet. Brief seed production information for some of these species is appended. Keywords: herbage legumes and grasses, pasture herbs, forage shrubs, seed production potential, export, research, marketing
Plantain seed production in a radial trial
Authors: Rowarth J.S.
Published: July 2020

Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) was grown in a radial trial in order to investigate the effect of plant density on seed production. Plant densities ranged from 278 plants/m2 to 17 plants/m2 in 9 arcs. Plants were monitored and harvested individually, thus giving effective high replication (32). Decreasing plant density had a significant positive effect on seed head production (both numbers and size of head), seed yield and plant vigour. Highest seed yield was associated with a density of 17 plants/m2. Keywords: plantain, seed production, plant density, competition, radial trial design
Seed production of 'Grasslands Roa' tall fescue in Southland
Authors: Hickey M.J.
Published: July 2020

Roa tall fescue was sown at Gore to study the effects of viable seeding rate (2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 kg/ha) and row spacing (30 and 60 cm) on seed yield and seed quality over 3 harvest seasons. In the first year after mid-February sowing, seed yields were low (260 kg/ha), owing to slow establishment and weed competition. The 30-cm row spacing had the highest seed yield in this year, but there were no differences between viable seeding rates. In the second year the highest seed yields (800 kg/ha) were from the viable 2.5 and 5.0 kg/ha seeding rates, but there were no differences between row spacings. In the third year there were no differences in seed yield between viable seeding rates and row spacing. The cool, moist summer conditions had no adverse effect on seed development; seed weights (3.3 g/1000 seeds) were high for all treatments each year. Keywords: 'Grasslands-Roa' tall fescue, seed-yields, seed quality, seed rates, row spacings, lodging
Effects of soil characteristics and spring management on the persistence of 'Grasslands Matua' prairie grass
Authors: Boom C.J. , Sheath G.W.
Published: July 2020

'Grasslands Matua' prairie grass was direct drilled into easy hill county at Whatawhata Research Centre. Establishment was excellent, but persistence was poor in most paddocks after 2 years. Site conditions associated with a range of Matua populations were surveyed. Matua population decline was greatest during spring. Spring soil nitrogen levels were associated with persistence, implying that nitrogen application in late winter may enhance persistence. In a trial to assess the effect of spring management on tillering patterns, seed production and seedling vigour, October closing resulted in the highest seed production, seed vigour and highest tiller density after herbage removal. It is proposed that a springsummer hay making policy will enhance the vigour of the existing population and provide adequate reseeding for new plant recruitment. Keywords Matua, persistence, soil survey, nitrogen, tiller density, closing date
Annual variations in the severity of attack by Argentine stem weevil on perennial ryegrass
Authors: Hunt W.F.
Published: July 2020

Experiments on the effects of Argentine stem weevil (Listronotus bonariensis (Kuschel)) predation on perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) were carried out at Palmerston North from 1978 to 1986. A tagged tiller technique was used to assess the probability that any tiller would be attacked by Argentine stem weevil larvae. After grazing by sheep, a single tiller was tagged with a plastic ring at 25 sites 15 cm apart along line transects through each plot, and examined twice weekly throughout the seasons during which Argentine stem weevil is active. Annual variation at Palmerston North was substantial, with the probability of a low endophyte 'Grasslands Nui' perennial ryegrass tiller being attacked ranging from 55% to 95%. ASW annual larvae production calculated from the probability of tiller site damage and the tiller site density varied from 800 to 3000/m'. Variations in the severity of attack of this magnitude are sufficient to explain the variability in the success of sowings of low endophyte grass. Variations in annual larvae production were not correlated with weather parameters, but may be related to natural cyclic disease infestations. Keywords Argentine stem weevil, 'Grasslands Nui' perennial ryegrass, endophyte
Priorities for development on a wet coastal Bay of Plenty conversion property
Authors: Livingstgn P. , Kyle R.
Published: July 2020

Dairy conversion units are as individual as the persons operating them. The need for flexibility in planning is easily demonstrable. Less than 6 months after purchasing a second-year conversion property near Edgecumbe the owners discovered a need to review fully the goals and objectives encompassed in their management plan. Such a move had been "forced" upon them for several reasons, primarily: (i) an announcement that milk solid (fat and protein) returns could be up to 25-30% lower than initially anticipated and (ii) the prompt recognition that pasture performance reflected much greater variation than earlier thought. Short- and medium-term goals were reviewed, resulting ina shift in priority from pasture renovation and increased stocking rate to additional drainage and fertiliser. The confidence to make such changes was provided through a decision-making process classed as "whole-farm technology transfer". Decisions that affect one component of the dairy production system are not made in isolation from the effects on another. Decision-making on this property is a stepwise, consultative process based on objective rather than subjective means and focuses on the 'wider vision' of the property owners. Keywords decision-making. goals and objectives, dairy conversion, whole farm technology transfer, management support
FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG BERHUBUNGAN DENGAN KEJADIAN HIPERTENSI PADA LANSIA DI PUSKESMAS AIR DINGIN LUBUK MINTURUN
Authors: Imelda Imelda , Sjaaf Fidiariani , Puspita Tri
Published: July 2020

Hipertensi merupakan salah satu penyakit tidak menular yang menjadi masalah kesehatan sangat serius saat ini. Hipertensi merupakan penyebab terbesar dari kejadian stroke, baik tekanan darah sistolik maupun diastoliknya. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang berhubungan dengan kejadian hipertensi pada lansia di Puskesmas Air Dingin Lubuk Minturun. Dalam penelitian ini, faktor-faktor yang diduga berhubungan dengan kejadian hipertensi pada lansia adalah konsumsi garam, konsumsi makanan berlemak, kebiasaan merokok, kebiasaan olahraga, obesitas, tingkat stres dan status sosial ekonomi. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif analitik dengan pendekatan cross sectional, yaitu dengan cara pengumpulan data sekaligus pada suatu waktu dan dilakukan kajian kualitatif dengan wawancara mendalam. Penelitian ini dilakukan dari bulan Juli hingga November 2019. Sampel berjumlah 110 responden yang diambil dengan cara accidental sampling. Analisis data dilakukan secara univariat dan bivariat menggunakan uji chi square. Berdasarkan analisis bivariat, pada penelitian ini faktor-faktor yang berhubungan secara signifikan dengan kejadian hipertensi adalah konsumsi garam, konsumsi makanan berlemak, kebiasaan olahraga, tingkat stres dan status sosial ekonomi. faktor yang tidak berhubungan dengan kejadian hipertensi adalah kebiasaan merokok dan obesitas.
Profil Penyakit Malaria Di Rumah Sakit Islam Siti Rahmah Padang Tahun 2018
Authors: Triyana Rahma , Salmi Salmi
Published: July 2020

Malaria is one of the health problems in Indonesia, especially West Sumatra. Determination of the description of Malaria disease in an area is needed to determine the spread and severity of the disease. This study aims to determine the frequency distribution according to age, sex and place of residence, description of the types of Plasmodium causes of Malaria and hematological features in Malaria patients at Siti Rahmah Padang Hospital in 2018. This type of research is a descriptive observational study with an approach or design cross section (cross sectional). The frequency distribution of Malaria sufferers in Siti Rahmah Padang Hospital in 2018 according to the highest age was in the age group 21-30 years as many as 28 cases (36.8%), the highest sex among men was 46 (60.5%) and the highest number of residences was found in Koto Tangah sub-district there were 31 cases (40.8%). The type of Plasmodium found in Malaria cases in Siti Rahmah Padang Hospital in 2018 was P. vivax (73 cases (96.05%)) and P. falciparum (3 cases (3.95%)). The results of laboratory tests on Hb, hematocrit, platelet and leukocyte levels in Malaria positive patients in Siti Rahmah Padang Hospital in 2018 were in the normal range.
KARAKTERISTIK KETEBALAN MAKULA SENTRAL SEBELUM DAN SESUDAH INJEKSI INTRAVITREAL BEVACIZUMAB PADA PASIEN OKLUSI VENA RETINA DI RSKM PADANG EYE CENTER PERIODE JANUARI 2018 – JANUARI 2019
Authors: Ashan Haves
Published: July 2020

Edema makula merupakan penyebab umum terjadinya penurunan tajam penglihatan. Akumulasi cairan di dalam retina dan peningkatan ketebalan retina menyebabkan rusaknya blood retinal barrier. Injeksi intravitreal anti-VEGF (bevacizumab) bertujuan untuk mengurangi aktivitas VEGF, dimana oklusi vena pada retina (Retinal Vein Occlusion/ RVO) menginduksi peningkatan kadar VEGF yang menyebabkan peningkatan permeabilitas vaskular dan menimbulkan edema makula. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah Mengetahui ketebalan makula sentral sebelum dan sesudah injeksi intravitreal bevacizumab pada pasien oklusi vena retina sentral dan oklusi vena retina cabang melalui pengamatan hasil pemeriksaan OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography). Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif retrospektif berdasarkan hasil penelusuran rekam medis terhadap 8 pasien RVO di RSKM Padang Eye Center periode Januari 2018 sampai Januari 2019. Penelitian dilakukan pada bulan Maret hingga April 2020. Subyek penelitian sebanyak 8 orang (8 mata) terdiri dari 2 laki-laki (25,0%) dan 6 perempuan (75,0%). Rentang usia berkisar antara 41-80 tahun. Ketebalan makula sentral saat awal didapatkan mayoritas > 300 µm yaitu sebanyak 7 orang (87,5%), sedangkan ≤ 300 µm sebanyak 1 orang (12,5%). Satu bulan pasca injeksi didapatkan mayoritas ketebalan makula sentral ≤ 300 µm sebanyak 5 orang (62,5%), sedangkan    > 300 µm yaitu sebanyak 3 orang (37,5%). semua pasien mengalami penurunan ketebalan makula sentral yaitu sebanyak 8 subjek (100%).
Intraspecific Hybrids Versus Purebred: A Study of Hatchery-Reared Populations of Sterlet Acipenser ruthenus
Authors: Shivaramu Sahana , Lebeda Ievgen , Kašpar Vojtěch , Flajšhans Martin
Published: July 2020

Hatchery-reared sterlet originating from the Danube and Volga river basins that showed population-discriminatory alleles on at least one microsatellite locus were used to produce purebred (within-population) and hybrid crosses to evaluate intraspecific hybridization with respect to the genetic polymorphism and physiological fitness of fish for commercial aquaculture and, conservation programs. Reciprocal crossing assessed the effect of parent position. The fish were reared in indoor and outdoor tanks and monitored over 504 days for growth traits. The highest final mean body weight (144.9 ± 59.5 g) was recorded in the Danube (♀) × Volga (♂) hybrid and the highest survival in the Volga (♀) × Danube (♂) hybrid. The Volga purebred exhibited the lowest mean body weight (124.8 ± 57.6 g). A set of six microsatellites was used to evaluate the heterozygosity. The mean number of alleles was highest in the Danube (♀) × Volga (♂) hybrid and lowest in the Volga purebred, suggesting an influence of the parent position in the hybridization matrix. The higher level of genetic polymorphism, as in the Danube (♀) × Volga (♂) hybrid, may confer greater fitness in a novel environment. Our analysis revealed that the intraspecific hybrids performed better than the purebred fish in the controlled and suboptimal rearing conditions.
How Fungal Glycans Modulate Platelet Activation via Toll-Like Receptors Contributing to the Escape of Candida albicans from the Immune Response
Authors: Jawhara Samir
Published: July 2020

Platelets are essential for vascular repair and for the maintenance of blood homeostasis. They contribute to the immune defence of the host against many infections caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi. Following infection, platelet function is modified, and these cells form aggregates with microorganisms leading, to a decrease in the level of circulating platelets. During candidaemia, mannans, β-glucans and chitin, exposed on the cell wall of Candida albicans, an opportunistic pathogenic yeast of humans, play an important role in modulation of the host response. These fungal polysaccharides are released into the circulation during infection and their detection allows the early diagnosis of invasive fungal infections. However, their role in the modulation of the immune response and, in particular, that of platelets, is not well understood. The structure and solubility of glycans play an important role in the orientation of the immune response of the host. This short review focuses on the effect of fungal β-glucans and chitin on platelet activation and how these glycans modulate platelet activity via Toll-like receptors, contributing to the escape of C. albicans from the immune response.
Allogeneic Demineralized Dentin Matrix Graft for Guided Bone Regeneration in Dental Implants
Authors: Um In-Woong , Ku Jeong-Kui , Kim Yu-Mi , Yun Pil-Young , Chang Na-Hee , Kim Young-Kyun , Choi Yonghoon
Published: July 2020

Autogenous and allogeneic demineralized dentin matrices (Auto-DDM and Allo-DDM, respectively) are currently used for guided bone regeneration (GBR). Buccal marginal bone (BMB) resorption is critical for successful implant integration. This study analyzed BMB resorption around dental implants for GBR between the control group (Auto-DDM graft) and experimental group (Allo-DDM graft). From 2014 to 2019, we enrolled 96 patients (59 males, 37 females, average 57.13 years) who received GBR (52 and 44 using Allo-DDM and Auto-DDM, respectively,) without a barrier membrane and a simultaneous single dental implantation (54 in the maxilla and 42 in the mandible). BMB height was measured immediately after GBR, at prosthetic loading, and 12 months after loading. BMB resorption was classified as initial resorption (between GBR and prosthetic loading) and functional resorption (during 12 months after prosthetic loading). The differences in the BMB levels of Auto-DDM and Allo-DDM were analyzed between the initial and functional resorption stages by independent sample t-test. Auto-DDM and Allo-DDM showed similar BMB changes in initial resorption (0.73 ± 0.97 and 0.72 ± 0.77 mm, respectively) and functional resorption (0.69 ± 0.81 and 0.48 ± 0.58 mm, respectively) without a significant difference between the maxilla and mandible. For GBR, Allo-DDM is comparable to Auto-DDM in terms of BMB resorption.
Digital Twin and Web-Based Virtual Gaming Technologies for Online Education: A Case of Construction Management and Engineering
Authors: Sepasgozar Samad M.E.
Published: July 2020

Mixed reality is advancing exponentially in some innovative industries, including manufacturing and aerospace. However, advanced applications of these technologies in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) businesses remain nascent. While it is in demand, the use of these technologies in developing the AEC digital pedagogy and for improving professional competence have received little attention. This paper presents a set of five novel digital technologies utilising virtual and augmented reality and digital twin, which adds value to the literature by showing their usefulness in the delivery of construction courses. The project involved designing, developing, and implementing a construction augmented reality (AR), including Piling AR (PAR) and a virtual tunnel boring machine (VTBM) module. The PAR is a smartphone module that presents different elements of a building structure, the footing system, and required equipment for footing construction. VTBM is developed as a multiplayer and avatar-included module for experiencing mechanisms of a tunnel boring machine. The novelty of this project is that it developed innovative immersive construction modules, practices of implementing digital pedagogy, and presenting the capacity of virtual technologies for education. This paper is also highly valuable to educators since it shows how a set of simple to complex technologies can be used for teaching various courses from a distance, either in emergencies such as corona virus disease (COVID-19) or as a part of regular teaching. This paper is a step forward to designing future practices full of virtual education appropriate to the new generation of digitally savvy students.
Evaluation of Polyethylene Glycol Crosslinked β-CD Polymers for the Removal of Methylene Blue
Authors: Mallard Isabelle , Landy David , Fourmentin Sophie
Published: July 2020

The environment is at the heart of global worldwide discussion. This study describes the synthesis of ecofriendly polymers by a crosslinking reaction between β-cyclodextrin as the monomer and polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (PEDGE) as well as ethylene diglycidyl ether (EDGE) as the crosslinking agents. The studied polymers were characterized by several techniques, such as SEM, FTIR, TGA-TDA and XRD. Their adsorption properties for methylene blue under various conditions of pH, contact time and initial concentration of dye were assessed in order to find the optimal conditions. The results indicate that the polymers are good nominates for methylene blue adsorption with adsorption capacities up to 15 mg/g. The adsorption mechanism was demonstrated to follow the Langmuir model. Finally, the regeneration of the polymers was investigated using Soxhlet extraction with ethanol. The absorption capacities of the adsorbent were stable after three cycles.
Study on Cold Resistance Performance of Composite Subgrade Structure in Seasonal Frozen Regions
Authors: Han Leilei , Wei Haibin , Zhang Yong , Zhang Ji , Wang Fuyu
Published: July 2020

In order to achieve the purpose of subgrade frost damage control and waste utilization, this paper proposes a specific kind of composite subgrade structure which is suitable for subgrade in seasonal frozen regions, especially wet subgrade. The composite subgrade structure is composed of extruded polystyrene (XPS) plates as a cold resistance layer and modified subgrade soil with excellent frost resistance which can consume a lot of oil shale residue and fly ash. To provide valuable reference for engineering applications, an outdoor model test is designed and carried out based on indoor test results and actual engineering data. The cold resistance performance of this new type subgrade structure is evaluated by comparing the temperature distribution, energy transfer, and freezing index of the composite subgrade and the common subgrade during the freezing process. The results show that, firstly, the cold resistance layer can effectively preserve temperature inside the subgrade and form a positive temperature zone beneath XPS plates, which can ensure that the subgrade soil in a certain range will not freeze during the freezing period. Secondly, the position with the best cold resistance effect of the cold resistance layer is directly under the XPS plate. In actual application, the key position should be covered as completely as possible by XPS plates to ensure the cold resistance effect. Thirdly, the cold resistance layer can not only protect subgrade soil under XPS plates from frost damage, but also raise and keep the service temperature of the structure above XPS plates in a certain range, which is beneficial to the cold resistance durability of the entire road. This means that the composite subgrade can greatly reduce the occurrence of subgrade frost damage, thereby even improving the service capability of roads in seasonal frozen regions.
Influence of Body Weight Support Systems on the Abnormal Gait Kinematic
Authors: Tran Van-Thuc , Sasaki Kota , Yamamoto Shin-ichiroh
Published: July 2020

In recent years, the Body Weight Support system has been considered to be an indispensable component in gait training systems, which be used to improve the ability to walk of hemiplegic, stroke, and spinal cord injury patients. Previous studies investigated the influence of the Body Weight Support system on gait parameters were based on the implementation with healthy subjects or patients with high assistance. Consequently, the influences of the Body Weight Support systems on gait rehabilitation in clinical practice are still unclear and need further investigation. In this study, we investigated the effects of the two Body Weight Support systems, the active body weight support system and the Counter Weight system, on an abnormal gait, which was generated by restriction of the right knee joint and 3 kg-weight on the right ankle joint. Both Body Weight Support systems improve the gait parameters of the abnormal gait such as the center of mass, the center of pressure, margin of stability, and step parameters. The active Body Weight Support system with the unloading force modulation showed more advanced and better behavior in comparison with the Counter Weight system. The results suggested the applicability of two Body Weight Support systems in clinical practice as a recovered gait intervention.
Process of Formaldehyde and Volatile Organic Compounds’ Removal fromWaste Gases
Authors: Mursics Jozsef , Urbancl Danijela , Goricanec Darko
Published: July 2020

Waste gases that cannot be released into the environment are generated in chemical industrial processes. There are various physico-chemical processes for the treatment of these gases, but in most cases, they present a major cost to the company. There is an EU directive for each industrial area describing the best available techniques (BAT) and the prescribed environmental limits for the maximum discharge of dangerous substances into the environment. The current process for the removal of formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds from waste industrial gases meets EU environmental regulations. However, expected new EU directives will require a significant reduction in formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds’ concentrations in industrial exhaust gases, thus necessitating a new technical solution for the removal of formaldehyde. This paper describes two methods of removing formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds from waste gases, generated by the metal oxide catalyst formaldehyde production processes. The first method involves upgrading existing processes of removing formaldehyde from waste gases with an additional absorption plant, with which emissions can be significantly reduced. The second method describes the co-incineration of waste gases generated by a metal oxide catalyst formaldehyde production process with natural gas in a gas turbine, where formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds are completely removed, while electricity is also produced. The second method is also useful for removing various concentrations of volatile organic compounds from waste gases generated in chemical industrial processes.
Influence of Novaya Zemlya Bora on Sea Waves: Satellite Measurements and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Shestakova Anna A. , Myslenkov Stanislav A. , Kuznetsova Alexandra M.
Published: July 2020

This paper investigates for the first time sea waves during Novaya Zemlya bora—a downslope windstorm on the western coast of the archipelago during eastern winds—using a statistical and case-study approach. Statistical analysis of altimeter data off the western coast of Novaya Zemlya during bora shows that, despite strong wind forcing, the frequency of hazard wave heights was low due to the limited fetch. This result was confirmed by the high-resolution numerical simulations of two severe bora episodes. However, the influence of bora on sea waves in some cases was significant: bora increased wave height at a distance from shore greater than 200 km and wave height anomaly was up to 2–3 m. The influence of the wind input parametrization choice during bora is great in the coastal region; however, parametrizations with fetch-limited modifications and strong-wind adopted aerodynamic drag coefficient do not improve the modeling results in the open sea where altimeter data are available.
The Link between Chronic Stress and Accelerated Aging
Authors: Yegorov Yegor E. , Poznyak Anastasia V. , Nikiforov Nikita G. , Sobenin Igor A. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: July 2020

People exposed to chronic stress age rapidly. The telomeres in their cells of all types shorten faster. Inflammation is another important feature of stress that, along with aging, accounts for the phenomenon of inflammaging. In addition to aging itself, inflammaging can contribute to the development of several pathologies, including atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension, and others. Oxidative stress is one of the main mechanisms related to stress. Oxidative stress is caused by the over-production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage various tissues. The main source of ROS is mitochondria. Being suppressed by mitochondrial mutations, mitophagy can aggravate the situation. In this case, the aging-specific pro-inflammatory changes are amplified. It happens because of the inability of cells to maintain the normal state of mitochondria. Macrophages are the crucial element of the innate immunity associated with the chronic inflammation and, subsequently, with the inflammaging. In this review, we focus on the therapy approaches potentially reducing the deleterious effects of oxidative stress. These include stimulation of mitophagy, activation of mitochondrial uncoupling, induction of the expression of the telomerase catalytic component gene, and use of antioxidants. Any method reducing oxidative stress should improve post-traumatic stress disorder.
Novel Blood-Derived Extracellular Vesicle-Based Biomarkers in Alzheimer’s Disease Identified by Proximity Extension Assay
Authors: Ellegaard Nielsen Jonas , Sofie Pedersen Kamilla , Vestergård Karsten , Georgiana Maltesen Raluca , Christiansen Gunna , Lundbye-Christensen Søren , Moos Torben , Risom Kristensen Søren , Pedersen Shona
Published: July 2020

Easily accessible biomarkers for Alzheimer’s dementia (AD) are lacking and established clinical markers are limited in applicability. Blood is a common biofluid for biomarker discoveries, and extracellular vesicles (EVs) may provide a matrix for exploring AD related biomarkers. Thus, we investigated proteins related to neurological and inflammatory processes in plasma and EVs. By proximity extension assay (PEA), 182 proteins were measured in plasma and EVs from patients with AD (n = 10), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI, n = 10), and healthy controls (n = 10). Plasma-derived EVs were enriched by 20,000× g, 1 h, 4 °C, and confirmed using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy with immunolabelling (IEM). Presence of CD9+ EVs was confirmed by western blotting and IEM. No group differences in particle concentration or size were detected by NTA. However, significant protein profiles were observed among subjects, particularly for EVs. Several proteins and their ratios could distinguish cognitively affected from healthy individuals. For plasma TGF-α│CCL20 (AUC = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.88–1.00, p = 0.001) and EVs CLEC1B│CCL11 (AUC = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.86–1.00, p = 0.001) showed diagnostic capabilities. Using PEA, we identified protein profiles capable of distinguishing healthy controls from AD patients. EVs provided additional biological information related to AD not observed in plasma alone.
Feasibility Randomized Trial for an Intensive Memory-Focused Training Program for School-Aged Children with Acquired Brain Injury
Authors: Recla Monica , Molteni Erika , Manfredi Valentina , Arrigoni Filippo , Nordio Andrea , Galbiati Susanna , Pastore Valentina , Modat Marc , Strazzer Sandra
Published: July 2020

(1) Background: Memory deficits are common sequelae of pediatric Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Only methods for non-focused cognitive remediation are available to the pediatric field. The aims of this feasibility trial are the description, implementation, and test of an intensive program specific to the training and re-adaptation of memory function in children, called Intensive Memory-Focused Training Program (IM-FTP); (2) Methods: Eleven children and adolescents with ABI (mean age at injury = 12.2 years, brain tumor survivors excluded) were clinically assessed and rehabilitated over 1-month through IM-FTP, including physio-kinesis/occupational, speech, and neuropsychology treatments. Each patient received a psychometric evaluation and a brain functional MRI at enrollment and at discharge. Ten pediatric controls with ABI (mean age at injury = 13.8 years) were clinically assessed, and rehabilitated through a standard program; (3) Results: After treatment, both groups had marked improvement in both immediate and delayed recall. IM-FTP was associated with better learning of semantically related and unrelated words, and larger improvement in immediate recall in prose memory. Imaging showed functional modification in the left frontal inferior cortex; (4) Conclusions: We described an age-independent reproducible multidisciplinary memory-focused rehabilitation protocol, which can be adapted to single patients while preserving inter-subject comparability, and is applicable up to a few months after injury. IM-FTP will now be employed in a powered clinical trial.