bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Open-Source Toolbox for Multiphase Flow Simulation in a PEM Fuel Cell
Authors: Kone Jean-Paul , Zhang Xinyu , Yan Yuying , Adegbite Stephen
Published: May 2018

A proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell is an electrolytic cell that can convert chemical energy of hydrogen reacting with oxygen into electrical energy with no greenhouse gases generated in the process. To satisfy increasingly demanding application needs, providing fuel cells with better performance and higher efficiency are of paramount importance. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis is an ideal method for fuel cell design optimization. In this paper, a comprehensive CFD-based numerical tool that can accurately simulate multiphase flow and the major transport phenomena occurring in a PEM fuel cell is presented. The tool is developed using the Open Source Field Operation and Manipulation (OpenFOAM) software (a free open-source CFD code). This makes it flexible and suitable for use by fuel cell manufacturers and researchers to get an in-depth understanding of the cell working processes to optimize the design. The distributions of velocity, pressure, chemical species, Nernst potential, current density, and temperature at case study conditions are as expected. The polarization curve follows the same trend as those of the I-V curves from numerical model and experimental data taken from the literature. Furthermore, a parametric study showed thekey role played by the concentration constant in shaping the cell polarization curve. The developed toolbox is well-suited for research and development which is not always the case with commercial code. The work therefore contributes to achieving the objectives outlined in the International Energy Agency (IEA) Advanced Fuel Cell Annex 37 which promotes open-source code modelling of fuel cells. The source code can be accessed athttp://dx.doi.org/10.17632/c743sh73j8.1.
Changes in Phenol Level and Antioxidant Activity of Cocoa Beans During Fermentation and Roasting
Authors: Sabahannur St , Alimuddin Suraedah , Rahmawati -
Published: May 2018

Flavonoid, polyphenols, especially catechin and epicatechin,are major components in cocoa products, which are known for antioxidant properties. Cocoa bean requires fermentation process in order to obtain good taste. During the fermentation process, polyphenols are oxidized by polyphenol oxidase to form quinone and 2-quinon. The purpose of the research is to determine the total level of polyphenol and antioxidant activity of fermented and roasted cocoa beans. The experiment was using Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with fermentation treatment that includes: Without fermentation, three-day fermentation and five-day fermentation. Observation parameters include: Polyphenol level and antioxidant activity with DPPH method. The results showed that the total phenol level of cocoa bean changed during fermentation and after roasting. The highest phenol level was found in cocoa beans without fermentation, and there is a decrease of phenol level to 98% after fermentation and roasting. The fermentation affects the Inhibition Concentration (IC50) of cocoa beans. An unfermented bean showed a very strongly active antioxidant activity with IC50 of 7.848 ppm, whereas three-day fermentation showed a strong antioxidant activity with IC50 of 35.961 ppm, and five-day fermentation is moderately active with IC50 of 55.976 ppm.
Canonical Correlations Between Body Posture Variables and Postural Stability in Children with Scoliosis and Scoliotic Posture
Authors: Wilczynski Jacek , Habik Natalia , Bieniek Katarzyna , Janecka Sylwia , Karolak Przemyslaw , Wilczynski Igor
Published: May 2018

Background: The aim of the study was to analyse the correlation between body posture variables and postural stability in children with scoliosis and scoliotic posture.Methods: Spinal examination photogrammetry used the photometric Moiré method. Based on the angle size of the of spinal curvature, scoliotic posture was determined: 1-9°, and scoliosis: ≥10°. Postural reactions were tested using the Tecnobody ST 310 Plus Stability System platform. Children attended therapy at the Inter-school Centre of Corrective and Compensatory Gymnastics in Starachowice The study was conducted in June 2011. There were 21 children with scoliotic posture (7%) and 7 with scoliosis (25%). Results: In the canonical analysis of body posture variables, the highest share comprised of: trunk inclination angle, alpha angle, chest kyphosis angle, length of lumbar lordosis, length of lumbar lordosis/total spine length, shoulder asymmetry – right higher, shoulder asymmetry – left higher, absolute of pelvis tilt angle, coefficient of shoulder asymmetry relative to C7, primary curvature angle, length of secondary curvature/total spine length, depth of secondary curvature/total spine length. Significance: High values of canonical correlation coefficients, despite lack of significance, indicate the possibility of strong a correlation between body postural variables and postural stability that can be demonstrated with a greater sample size.
Making Accessibility Visible: Visualizing Spatial Accessibility Through Multi-Dimensional Scaling Model
Authors: Sabogal Orlando Antonio , Escobar Diego Alexander , Oviedo Daniel Ricardo
Published: May 2018

Accessibility has progressively claimed a central role in policy discourse and planning in the Global South. However, availability of approaches for its assessment is still limited in practice. Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) is a statistical tool aimed at explaining relations of distances, such as the analyzed in accessibility, through the construction of a new space of projections. That way, results are easily visualized and interpreted. Our research explores the use of MDS for the visualization of spatial accessibility. Taking the cities of Pereira and Dosquebradas, which belong to the Metropolitan Area of the Centre-West (MACW) of Colombia, we calculate the shortest path from each intersection to the rest assuming trips in motorized and non-motorized transport modes. This approach allows to visually re-configure the spatial distribution of intersections in the transport network, graphically representing accessibility levels for different zones in the metropolitan region of analysis. The use of MDS enables a more intuitive interpretation of accessibility and the exploration of underlying factors that can influence spatial inequalities, as well as to visualize changes generated by different transport and land-use interventions.  Results allow to visualize the configuration of the two municipalities in the metropolitan area in an easily interpretable fashion, identifying areas with limited accessibility and establishing comparisons between mode choices. The tool seeks to contribute to better-informing transport policy and accessibility appraisals and identifying potential spatial inequalities in relation to transport in urban areas, which was tested in various forums with local decision-makers and non-specialists in Colombia.
Dipeptidyl peptidase IV: An attractive target for the development of effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Jackiewicz Agata , Katarzyńska Joanna
Published: May 2018

DPP IV is a peptidase with a catalytic activity and the ability to bind extracellular matrix proteins. It participates in the metabolism of glucose, gastrointestinal motility, the regulation of appetite and affects the function of the immune system. It is also involved in the formation of pain and inflammation. The variety of activities due to extensive expression in endothelial and epithelial cells makes the enzyme a promising tool for diagnostic and prognostic applications. The natural DPP IV peptide inhibitors and substrates have inspired the search for new, therapeutically important compounds that selectively inhibit the enzyme activity. A number of changes to the structure of the parent molecules have been required to improve their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile to achieve therapeutic efficacy. The several synthetic scaffold mimetics, known as gliptins, are now in clinical use in the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2. Recent studies indicate that gliptin inhibitors may be of therapeutic interest or inspiration for the development of new drugs for other diseases such as cancer, inflammatory, degenerative diseases, metabolic and neurological disorders or dysfunctions of the immune system.
Optimization and analysis of porosity
and roughness in selective laser melting
316L parts
Authors: Król M. , Mazurkiewicz J. , Żołnierczyk S.
Published: May 2018

Purpose: The investigations have been carried out on 316L stainless steel parts fabricated
by Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technique. The study aimed to determine the effect of SLM
parameters on porosity, hardness, and structure of 316L stainless steel.
Design/methodology/approach: The analyses were conducted on 316L stainless steel
parts by using AM125 SLM machine by Renishaw. The effects of the different manufacturing
process parameters as power output, laser distance between the point’s melted metal
powder during additive manufacturing as well as the orientation of the model relative to
the laser beam and substrate on porosity, hardness, microstructure and roughness were
analysed and optimised.
Findings: The surface quality parts using 316L steel with the assumed parameters of the
experiment depends on the process parameters used during the SLM technique as well
as the orientation of formed walls of the model relative to the substrate and thus the laser
beam. The lowest roughness of 316L SLM parts oriented perpendicularly to the substrate
was found when 100 W and 20 μm the distance point was utilised. The lowest roughness
for part oriented at 60° relatives to the substrate was observed when 125 W and the point
distance 50 μm was employed.
Practical implications: Stainless steel is one of the most popular materials used for
selective laser sintering (SLM) processing to produce nearly fully dense components from 3D
CAD models. Reduction of porosity is one of the critical research issues within the additive
manufacturing technique SLM, since one of the major cost factors is the post-processing.
Originality/value: This manuscript can serve as an aid in understanding the importance of
technological parameters on quality and porosity of manufactured AM parts made by SLM
technique.
Formación a entrenadores de fútbol base y grado de satisfacción de los deportistas
Authors: Ortín F.J. , Maestre M. , García-de-Alcaraz A.
Published: May 2018

El entrenador es una de las figuras clave en la iniciación deportiva influyendo en la continuidad de la participación deportiva. En este estudio se realizó una evaluación de las verbalizaciones del entrenador en competición y un programa de asesoramiento conductual. El objetivo del trabajo fue observar los cambios en la conducta del entrenador y examinar si esto repercutía en la satisfacción de los futbolistas. Para ello, se realizó la grabación de las verbalizaciones de 3 entrenadores durante 16 partidos de competición, se aplicó una adaptación del  instrumento CBAS y un autorregistro de conductas del entrenador. Los futbolistas rellenaron un cuestionario que evaluó su grado de satisfacción con respecto a la conducta de sus entrenadores. Los resultados mostraron una disminución de las conductas verbales con enfoque negativo por parte de los entrenadores, y un aumento en el grado de satisfacción de los deportistas tras la aplicación del programa de entrenamiento conductual con independencia de la categoría de competición. Estos resultados destacan la necesidad de desarrollar programas de asesoramiento en jóvenes entrenadores para favorecer la adherencia de los deportistas. 
Valoración de la relación entre Rendimiento Académico y Condición Física en escolares zaragozanos
Authors: Castro López R. , Pérez Gómez V. , Cachón Zagalaz J. , Zagalaz Sánchez Mª L.
Published: May 2018

Introducción: El estudio analiza las asociaciones entre la condición física y el rendimiento académico, atendiendo al género, curso y origen del alumnado.

Material y métodos: Fueron analizados 338 alumnos. El rendimiento escolar se basó en la nota media académica general, las notas de matemáticas y lengua, la media de estas dos materias y las asignaturas suspendidas. La Condición Física (CF) fue evaluada por la Batería EUROFIT. El tratamiento estadístico, situó la significación bilateral en .05.

Resultados: Aparece significación entre la CF y todas las variables académicas (p<.01). La prueba con mayor significación es la flexibilidad (todas las variables académicas p<.01). Atendiendo al género, aparece en ambos y, basándonos en el curso, existe en los primeros cursos analizados. Respecto al origen, los alumnos españoles presentan significación siendo puntual en los alumnos inmigrantes. 

Conclusiones: Se concluye la existencia de una relación entre la CF y el rendimiento escolar, variando en función de las pruebas y los elementos diferenciadores analizados.
Triatlón: un enfoque innovador en la enseñanza secundaria
Authors: Machota Blas V.E.
Published: May 2018

Este trabajo presenta la implementación de una unidad didáctica innovadora de Triatlón en un contexto de Educación Física escolar. La propuesta diseñada, integrada en la Programación Docente, introduce a los alumnos a este deporte y fomenta la actividad física en el medio natural como medio de mantenerse activo, saludable y en forma. Los resultados sobre el impacto de la unidad didáctica en los estudiantes fueron estudiados a través de grupos de discusión. Los estudiantes parecen haber tomado conciencia del deporte del Triatlón y demostraron conocimientos y habilidades relacionadas con éste. Esta unidad innovadora les ha proporcionado la oportunidad para aprender estas habilidades y practicar este deporte fuera del ámbito escolar y aumentar sus niveles de actividad física. Su desarrollo inicial puede parecer condicionada a la ubicación y características de material muy específico, pero con las modificaciones apropiadas puede ser adaptado e incluido en la EF escolar. 
Carpobrotus acınaiformis L. Metanol Ekstresinin Fitokimyasal Taraması ve Ekstrenin İnsan Metastatik Meme Kanseri (MCF-7) ve İnsan Kolon Kanseri (Caco-2) Hücreleri Üzerindeki Sitotoksik ve Apoptotik Etkisinin Araştırılması
Authors: AŞKIN ÇELİK Tülay , ASLANTÜRK Özlem Sultan
Published: May 2018

Bu çalışmanın amacı, C. acinaciformis L. (makas
otu) bitkisinin toprak üstü kısımlarından elde edilen metanol ekstresinde (ME)
fitokimyasal madde taramasının yapılması, ekstrenin toplam fenolik madde
miktarı, antioksidan aktivitesi ve in
vitro sitotoksik ve apoptotik etkilerinin araştırılmasıdır. Ekstrede
bulunan fitokimyasallar standart metod ve HPLC analizi kullanılarak belirlenmiştir.
C. acinaciformis ME, antioksidan
aktivitesi (DPPH radikalini süpürme, H2O2 süpürme
and metal şelatlama assay), sitotoksik etki (MCF-7 ve Caco-2 hücrelerinde MTT
assay) ve apoptotik etki (DNA difüzyon assay) bakımından test edilmiştir.
Yapılan kalitatif fitokimyasal tarama test sonuçlarına göre C. acinaciformiş ME’de fenoller,
taninler, flavonoidler ve antrakinon’ların bulunduğu, alkaloid ve saponinin ise
bulunmadığı belirlenmiştir. Ekstrenin toplam fenolik madde miktarı 61.26 ±
0,110 mg GAE/g ekstre olarak hesaplanmıştır. ME’nin denenen bütün
konsantrasyonlarda (100 μg/ml, 250 μg/ml, 500 μg/ml ve 1000 μg/ml) yüksek
seviyede DPPH radikalini süpürme aktivitesine sahip olduğu H2O2
süpürme aktivitesinin çok düşük olduğu,  metal şelatlama aktivitesinin ise bulunmadığı belirlenmiştir.

ME, MCF-7 hücreleri
üzerinde oldukça yüksek oranda sitotoksik etki göstermiş (p<0.05), Caco-2 hücreleri
üzerindeki sitotoksik etkisi ise daha düşük oranda olmuştur. ME’nin MCF-7 ve
Caco-2 hücreleri üzerinde oluşturduğu apoptotik etki de sitotoksik etkiye
benzerlik göstemiştir. Metanol ekstresinin MCF-7 hücreleri üzerindeki apoptotik
etkisi, Caco-2 hücrelerine nazaran daha fazla olmuş ve aradaki farkın
istatistiki açıdan da önemli olduğu bulunmuştur (p<0.05).
Hull-White Stokastik Diferansiyel Denklemine Lie Simetri Analizi
Authors: İZGİ Burhaneddin , BAKKALOĞLU Ahmet
Published: May 2018

Bu makalede, stokastik diferansiyel denklemlere Lie
simetri analizinin bir uygulaması olarak asıl çözümün nasıl elde edileceğini
göstereceğiz. Yapacağımız bu analizler stokastik faiz oranı modellerinden Hull-White
modeli özelinde yapılacaktır. İlk olarak Hull-White stokastik modeline karşılık
gelen Hull-White (1+1) lineer parabolik kısmi türevli denklemini elde edeceğiz.
Daha sonra, elde ettiğimiz bu denklemin Lie simetri analiz yöntemleriyle özellikle
de değişmezlik kriterleri altında klasik anlamdaki ısı denklemine
dönüşebileceğini göstereceğiz ve ilgili dönüşümleri bulacağız. Son olarak da,
Hull-White kısmi türevli diferansiyel denkleminin asıl çözümünü, bulduğumuz bu
dönüşümlerle ve ısı denkleminin literatürdeki özelliklerini kullanarak elde
edeceğiz.
Lineer Olmayan Dalga Denkleminin Lie Grupları Analizi
Authors: ÖZER Saadet
Published: May 2018

Keyfi fonksiyonlar ya da parametreler içeren denklem kümesini,
denklem ailesi olarak adlandırsak, ailenin üyeleri arasında geçişi mümkün kılan
dönüşümler eşdeğerlik dönüşümleri olarak adlandırılır. Eşdeğerlik grupları,
verilen bir diferansiyel denklem ailesini değişmez bırakan dönüşüm grupları olarak
tanımlanır.  Bu nedenle diferansiyel
denklem ailelerinin eşdeğerlik grupları, aynı aileye ait, farklı denklemler
arası mümkün ilişkilerin varlığını inceler ve bu ilişkileri ortaya çıkarır. Böylelikle,
karmaşık bir denklemin kesin çözümü ya da başka deyişle davranışı, aynı aileden
daha basit bir denklem aracılığıyla belirlenebilir.  Bu çalışmada, lineer olmayan tek boyutlu dalga
denkleminin eşdeğerlik grupları, Lie gruplarının bir uygulaması çerçevesinde
incelenmiş ve bazı örnekler ile lineer ve lineer olmayan denklemler arası geçişler
sağlanmış, bazı karmaşık lineer olmayan denklemlerin çözümü belirlenmiştir. Bu
tipte dönüşümlerin varlığı için, sonsuz küçük üreteçler üzerine gelen şartlar elde
edilmiştir. Ayrıca, bu şekilde nokta dönüşümleri aracılığı ile, lineer dalga
denklemine dönüştürülebilen, lineer olmayan denklemlerin asgari fonksiyonel
bağlılıkları da belirlenmiştir.
Tolerance in intergroup encounters: Prevalence and plasticity in the non-human great apes and humans
Authors: Pisor Anne C , Surbeck Martin
Published: May 2018

Primate individuals use a variety of strategies in intergroup encounters, from aggression to tolerance; however, recent focus on the evolution of either warfare or peace has come at the cost of characterizing this variability. Drawing on insights from across the Primate order, with special focus on our closest living relatives, we identify candidate selection pressures that may favor tolerance toward extra-group individuals. While similar ecological and social factors appear to explain some of the plasticity in behavior toward extra-group individuals in both humans and the non-human great apes, the prevalence of extra-group tolerance in humans requires additional explanation. Evidence suggests that the human foraging niche often required reliance on resources not locally available, favoring higher levels of tolerance in humans that are reinforced by cultural institutions. We identify data collection strategies and social science literatures that can help us better characterize the role of extra-group relationships in human sociality.
Genetic parameters of body conformation and performance traits of Wielkopolski horses registered in the successive volumes of the Herdbook
Authors: Kaproń M. , Czerniak E. , Łukaszewicz M. , Danielewicz A.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The study covered 11 376 horses registered in the six successive volumes of the Wielkopolski Herdbook. The level of variability in the body conformation indices and in the performance value indices was analysed. The genetic basis parameters for the body conformation and performance traits of the Wielkopolski horses were assessed. A high level of heritability was identified for the wither height (h2 = 0.566) and cannon circumference (h2 = 0.418), with an average heritability level of the other analysed characteristics (ranging from h2 = 0.205 – for the stallion performance test results to h2 = 0.350 – in the case of chest circumference). On the other hand, genetic correlation between the analysed indices produced the highest values for the relationship between wither height and cannon (rG = 0.636) and chest (rG = 0.551) circumference, as well as for the interrelation between the above dimensions and the following body structure indices: »boniness« (rG = 0.690) and »bulkiness« (rG = 0.541). Considering the extensive scope of the study – and the fact that the breed population was registered in the Wielkopolski Herdbook – the authors suggested the advisability of using the results of the present study for the modification of breeding programs with a view to improve the breed in question, both its principal population and the one included in the program of gene-pool protection.
Feeding behaviour in dairy cows with and without the influence of clinical diseases or subclinical disorders
Authors: Dollinger J. , Kaufmann O.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The objective of this study was to describe and compare circadian pattern of feed intake and feeding behaviour in healthy and diseased dairy cows. Test animals (n=138) were separated into two groups according to their health status. Health and management data were used to exclude cows with clinical or subclinical diseases. Fifteen cows of the test herd complied with the defined criteria and formed the reference group »healthy«. The behaviour of the remaining 123 cows was compared with the reference group. Both groups were used to analyse the feed intake and feeding behaviour on a daily base and in the course of 24 h. During a defined time range from day 28 post-partum to day 56 post-partum behavioural differences within these groups were analysed. There were no significant differences in daily feed intake (40.7 vs. 41.9 kg fresh matter per day, P=0.42). However, feeding behaviour pattern differed between the two groups (daily feeder visits, daily feeding time, number of daily feeder visit, number of daily meals, meal duration, feeding time within a meal, feeder visits per meal). For example, average feeder visit was shorter in the group with subclinical/ clinical health disorders than in the reference group (7.2 vs. 8.1 min, P=0.024). Differences in circadian feeding behaviour could be detected by analysing the feed intake and feeding time over the course of the day. Linear regression analyses showed strong correlations between feeding time and feed intake on hourly base (R² = 0.8) and on daily base (R² = 0.7).
Looking for breed differentiating SNP loci and for a SNP set for parentage testing in Mangalica
Authors: Zsolnai A. , Tóth G. , Molnár J. , Stéger V. , Marincs F. , Jánosi A. , Ujhelyi G. , Koppányné Szabó E. , Mohr A. , Anton I. , Szántó-Egész R. , Sipos R. , Egerszegi I. , Dallmann K. , Tóth P. , Micsinai A. , Brüssow K.-P. , Rátky J.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The whole genome of Mangalica animals has been screened on the Illumina porcine chip giving the possibility (1) to replace the previously applied ten microsatellite markers by nine SNP loci to classify the Blond, Swallow-Belly and Red Mangalica individuals into three different breed groups (P>0.95); (2) to propose 54 SNP loci for parentage testing in Mangalica pigs where the exclusion probability is 0.999115 if one parent is known and the probability of identity is 1.54×10-23.
Post-thawing colour changes in meat of foals as affected by feeding level and post-thawing time
Authors: Tateoa A. , De Paloa P. , Maggiolinoa A. , Centoducatia P.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The aim of the present work was to investigate how chromatic properties of foal meat can vary after thawing out in relation to the feeding level of 11 months old horses and to the post-thawing time. Thirty-six Italian Heavy Draught Horse foals were used for the trial. They were subdivided in three groups according feeding level: FL150=150 %, FL180=180 % and FL200=200 % of the energy maintenance requirements. Two different surfaces were investigated for each sample: daily renewed cutting surface and not renewed cutting surface. Lightness fell on both surfaces with the increasing of the feeding level (P<0.01). The redness of both investigated surfaces increased with feeding level (P<0.01), while yellowness decreased (P<0.05). Consumers prefer to purchase meat that is red rather than brown in colour. So, from a chromatic perspective the thawed meat of Italian Heavy Draught Horse foals fed with a lower feeding level proved to be that which best meets the market requirements.
Association of a polymorphism in the 3' untranslated region of the OLR1 gene with milk fat and protein in dairy cows
Authors: Soltani-Ghombavani M. , Ansari-Mahyari S. , Edriss M. A.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor 1 (OLR1) is the major cell surface receptor for oxidized low density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL). The role of OLR1 in lipid metabolism and the existence of milk-related QTL in the vicinity of the OLR1 gene have prompted the investigation of OLR1 as a candidate gene influencing milk production traits. The present study explored the association of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the 3' untranslated region of the OLR1 gene (OLR1g.8232 C>A) with milk-related traits in 408 Iranian Holstein cows. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique was performed for genotyping the animals. Animals with genotype CC had the highest and animals with genotype AA had the lowest fat percentage while genotype AC was intermediate (P<0.05). Cows carrying genotype CC showed more milk fat yield compared to the genotypes AC (P<0.1) and AA (P<0.01). Cows of genotypes CC and AC had a higher milk protein percentage than those of genotype AA (P<0.01). Regarding the association revealed, the SNP has the potential to be considered as a marker in marker-assisted selection.
The effect of the season on some blood metabolites and haptoglobin in dairy cows during postpartum period
Authors: Alberghina D. , Piccione G. , Casella S. , Panzera M. , Morgante M. , Gianesella M.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the season (ambient temperature and relative humidity) on some blood metabolites in dairy cows during postpartum period. Blood samples were collected from 195 clinically healthy dairy cows of 8 Italian dairy herds in spring (April–May 15.5±4 °C and 69.5±0.7 %), summer (June–July 23±1.5 °C and 69±1.3 %) and autumn (September–October 17±2 °C and 72.5±2 %). Total proteins, albumin, globulins, urea, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, non-esterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate and haptoglobin were analysed. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant effect of the season (P<0.05) on all studied parameters, except to the packed cell volume, globulins and β-hydroxybutyrate. A positive significant correlation was found only between albumin and total cholesterol in summer (r=0.39; P<0.01) and autumn (r=0.40; P<0.001). These results indicated the influence of the season on blood metabolites in dairy cows during postpartum period.
Estimation of genetic parameters for daily milk yields of primiparous Iranian Holstein cows
Authors: Kheirabadi K. , Alijani S. , Zavadilová L. , Rafat S. A. , Moghaddam G.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Applying a multiple trait random regression (MT-RR) in national level and for whole test day records of a country is a great advance in animal breeding context. Having reliable (co) variance components is a critical step in applying multiple traits genetic evaluation especially in developing countries. Genetic parameters of milk, fat and protein yields were estimated for Iranian Holstein dairy cows. Data included 276 692 test day (TD) production traits records collected of 30 705 primiparous cows belonging to 619 sires. An animal multi-trait random regression model was employed in the analyses using the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) method. The model included herd-test-date, age-season of calving (by applying a fixed regression for each subclass of this effect) and year of calving as fixed effects and random regression (RR) coefficients for additive genetic (AG) and permanent environmental (PE) effects. Obtained results showed that daily heritabilities ranged from 0.10 to 0.21 for milk, from 0.05 to 0.08 for fat and from 0.08 to 0.18 for protein yield. Estimated heritability for 305-d milk, fat and protein yields were 0.25, 0.20 and 0.25, respectively. Correlations between individual test day records within traits were high for adjacent tests (nearly 1) and decreased as the interval between tests increased. Correlations between yields of milk, fat and protein on a given test day are also high and greater during late lactation than during early or mid-lactation. Genetic correlations between 305-d yield traits ranged from 0.75 to 0.92. The largest genetic correlation, as well as permanent environmental correlation, was observed between milk and protein yield.
Effect of thyroglobulin gene polymorphism on the intramuscular fat content in cattle examined by x-ray computed tomography and Soxhlet methods
Authors: Anton I. , Zsolnai A. , Holló I. , Repa I. , Holló G.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Intramuscular fat content or marbling represents a valuable beef quality trait and is an important determinant of palatability due to its contribution to juiciness and flavour. Meat which has little marbling may be dry and flavourless. Higher levels of intramuscular fat have been associated with increased tenderness, juiciness and flavour of beef (Thompson 2004). Whereas this feature is highly appreciated in some markets (by example Australia, China, Korea, Japan) breeders usually try to increase intramuscular fat deposition in cattle by nutrition. However, genetic factors have been shown to affect marbling in cattle. Thyroglobulin (TG) is a glycoproteic hormone synthesised in the thyroid gland and is the precursor of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones which influence lipid metabolism. T3 and T4 hormones have been associated with marbling in Wagyu cattle (Mears et al. 2001). The effect of a C/T single nucleotide polymorphism in the 5'-untranslated region of TG gene has been concluded to affect intramuscular fat content in cattle (Barendse 1999). High probability of positive association between the T allele of bovine TG gene and marbling was observed by Wood et al. (2006). Thyroglobulin mainly affects the fat content of longissimus dorsi muscle (LD) (Thaller et al. 2003).
Evaluation of the effect of genetically modified Roundup Ready soya bean and MON 810 maize in the diet of Japanese quail on chosen aspects of their productivity and retention of transgenic DNA in tissues
Authors: Korwin-Kossakowska A. , Sartowska K. , Linkiewicz A. , Tomczyk G. , Prusak B. , Sender G.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of genetically modified (GM) ingredients (soya bean meal and maize grain) used in poultry diets on birds' performance, as well as the accumulation of the transgenic DNA in eggs, breast muscle and internal organs. In the present experiment four generations of Japanese quails, which were subject to three different diets, two containing genetically modified organisms (GMO, soya and maize) and one GMO-free control, were analysed. Birds' performance traits were monitored along the trial. A screening molecular method – polymerase chain reaction amplification (PCR) – was used to detect CaMV 35S promoter and nos terminator in the collected samples. Results showed no presence of modified DNA in the analysed products. According to the obtained results, it was concluded that there was no negative effect of the use of genetically modified soya bean meal or maize grain found with regard to final product safety for consumers or to birds' productivity.
Effect of teat order on piglet rearing results of native Złotnicka White breed
Authors: Skrzypczak E. , Szulc K. , Babicz M. , Buczyński J. T.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Observations of animal behaviour during the first three weeks of life revealed the existence of a specific correlation between the use of individual teats by suckling piglets and successive pairs of teats. Therefore, it appeared justified to undertake experiments with the aim to study relationships between the use of teats by individual piglets and the results of their rearing, focusing in particular on small-sized domestic breeds. The experimental animal material comprised 20 litters which derived from 20 randomly selected sows of a native swine breed. The scope of the performed observations and analyses of parameters included: frequency of approaching the preferred teats, number and body weight of piglets, body weight gains as well as mortality of piglets throughout the rearing period.
Serum proteins profile in Comisana lambs during the first month of life
Authors: Piccione G. , Arfuso F. , Faggio C. , Casella S. , Zumbo A. , Panzera M.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The aim of the present study was to measure the serum total proteins and the serum protein fractions (albumin, α1-, α2-, β-, and γ- globulins) of ten newborn lambs (Comisana breed) during the first 30 days of life in order to obtain useful information for neonatal care. From each animal, blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture at the same hour (9.00) every 3 days for 30 days starting from birth (day 0). The concentrations of serum total proteins and albumin, α1-, α2-, β-, γ- globulins, and Albumin/Globulins (A/G) ratio were determined using an automated electrophoresis system. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Bonferroni’s test, was used to determine significant differences between mean values of the studied parameters from the 1st to the 30th day of the experimental period. Data analysis of variance showed a statistical effect of days of life on total proteins, albumin, α1-globulins, β-globulins, γ-globulins and ratio A/G during the first 30 days of life (P<0.0001), while no statistical significant effect of days of life was observed on α2-globulins during the experimental period (P=0.27). The obtained results indicated that passive transfer status, determined from serum immunoglobulin concentration 24 hours after birth, is a significant source of variation in preweaning growth performance in dairy lambs. These finding make a contribution to the knowledge of physiological adaptation in lambs during the first 30 days of life and give useful information for the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal diseases.
The effects of thermal manipulation during early and late embryogenesis on hatchability, hatching weight and body weight in Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Alkan S. , Karsli T. , Karabag K. , Galic A. , Balcioglu M. S.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. This study aimed to determine the effects of thermal manipulation during early embryogenesis (EE) and late embryogenesis (LE) on hatching weight, body weight at 5 weeks of age, hatchability and embryonic mortality rate in Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Incubation conditions from day 0 to day 17 were; 37.7 °C and 55 % relative humidity for control group. In the thermally treated eggs during early embryogenesis (EE6-EE8 days), incubation temperature was increased to 41 °C and relative humidity to 65 % for 3 hours (12.00-15.00) at 3 consecutive days. Also, in the late embryogenesis stage (LE12-LE14 days), incubation temperature was increased to 41 °C and relative humidity to 65 % 3 hours (12.00–15.00) at 3 consecutive days. At hatch in each trial, all chicks were wing-banded and individually weighted. Thermal manipulations had significant effect on hatching weight, and lowest hatching weights were found in late embryogenesis (LE) group in terms of male and female. In addition, thermal manipulations and gender had significant effect on body weight at 5 weeks of age and lowest body weights at 5 weeks of age were dedected in late embryogenesis (LE) group for both gender.
Factors affecting lactation length and effect of current lactation length on the subsequent production and reproduction in Iranian Holsteins
Authors: Hossein-Zadeh N. G.
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Calving records of Holstein cows from January 1983 to December 2006 comprising 1,190 herds with 385,102 calving events were used to evaluate factors affecting the length of lactation and effect of current lactation length on the next productive and reproductive performances of Iranian Holsteins. Statistical analyses of productive and reproductive traits in this study were performed as linear mixed models. Lactation length (LL) of cows was grouped into 10 classes from <100 days through 500 days. Average LL was 314 days in Iranian Holsteins. Primiparous cows had the greatest LL and the mean of LL increased over the years from 1983 to 2006 and spring calvers had the longest LL (P<0.05). Cows within the LL class of 500 had the greatest unadjusted milk yield, adjusted milk yield, adjusted protein yield and adjusted fat yield and also had the longest calving intervals (P<0.05). Cows within the LL classes of 150–199 and 200–249 had the greatest values of adjusted protein percentage. Also, age at calving was the lowest for the LL class of 250–299 (P<0.05). There were linear and increasing trends for unadjusted milk yield, adjusted milk yield, adjusted protein yield and adjusted fat yield over the LL classes in this study, but a linear but decreasing trend was observed for adjusted protein percentage over LL classes. On the other hand, there were non-linear relationships between adjusted fat percentage, calving interval and age at calving with LL classes in the current study.
Effect of betaine as an osmolyte on broiler chickens
exposed to different levels of water salinity
Authors: Alahgholi Masoud , Tabeidian Sayed Ali , Toghyani Majid , Ale Saheb Fosoul Sayed Sadra
Published: May 2018

Abstract. This trial was conducted to examine the effect of betaine on performance, humoral immunity, small intestinal morphology and blood osmotic pressure parameters of broiler chicks consumed different levels of water salinity. Total of 520 day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were used with 2×4 factorial arrangement in completely randomized design. Experimental treatments were consisting of 2 levels of betaine supplementation (0 and 1.5 g/kg) and 4 levels of total dissolved solids (TDS) (250, 1 500, 3 000, 4 500 ppm). In this trial daily feed intake (DFI), daily weight gain (DWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded on days 14, 28 and 48. Small intestinal morphology was evaluated at the age of 28. Humoral immunity was assessed by evaluation of antibody titre against sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and also Newcastle and influenza antigens. At the end of the experiment, blood was taken and concentration of plasma Na, K, Cl and haematocrit blood percentage was determined. Results showed that DWG significantly decreased and FCR increased in 4 500 ppm of water TDS in growing, finishing and whole period of broilers production (P<0.05). Furthermore increased plasma Na and blood hematocrit percentage observed in 4 500 ppm of water salinity (P<0.05). Betaine significantly increased DFI during growing phase (P<0.05). Betaine supplementation substantially increased antibody titre against influenza and also bursa of fabricius relative weight (P<0.05). Additionally, betaine inclusion increased villi height in ileum (P<0.05). In conclusion, increasing trend of water TDS affect chickens performance and betaine supplementation is able to improve antibody titre against influenza.
Microsatellite based genetic diversity among the three water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) populations in Turkey
Authors: Özkan Ünal Emel , Soysal M. İhsan , Yüncü Eren , Dağtaş Nihan Dilşad , Togan İnci
Published: May 2018

Abstract. In this study, twenty microsatellite loci were used to define genetic diversity among 56 water buffalo samples. Their somatic tissues (the skin and cartilage tissues from ears) and DNAs were deposited in Turkish Gene Banks. Samples of healthy animals were collected from three different geographic regions: Northern Turkey, North-Western Turkey and Eastern Thrace. Three (loci CSSM57, ETH3) to ten (locus CSSM47) different alleles were identified per micro-satellite locus in a total of 103 alleles. PIC values for the micro-satellite loci analysed ranged from 0.14 (CSSM32) to 0.82 (CSSM47) with a mean of 0.4945. In all of the populations for each of the loci, the observed heterozygosities (HO) were greater than the expected heterozygosities (HE), indicating that populations suffered from bottleneck. HE per population ranged between 0.5359 in the Black Sea Region and 0.5208 in the Aegean-South Marmara Region. Within the population, inbreeding estimates (FIS) was positive in only four of the 20 loci analysed. Individuals of the different geographic populations did not cluster on the neighbour joining tree which was constructed on the basis of allele sharing distances. Population differentiation was further visualized by Factorial Correspondence Analysis and determined by the pairwise estimations of fixation index (FST) and Nei’s standard genetic distance (Da). The results revealed that populations have inertia (as depicted by Factorial Correspondence Analysis), they are differentiated significantly but little (by pairwise FST values) and the least genetic distance is between Black Sea Region and Thrace Region. Comparative studies indicated that the genetic diversity of water buffalo harboured in the Gene Banks of Turkey is at the lower end of the diversity spectrum. This study thus highlights the usefulness of heterologous bovine microsatellite markers to assess the genetic variability in Anatolian water buffalo breeds. Furthermore, the results can be utilized for future breeding strategies and conservation.
Joint genealogical analysis as a tool for diversity evaluation in Pinzgau cattle populations
Authors: Pavlík Ivan , Sölkner Johann , Kadlečík Ondrej , Kasarda Radovan , Mészáros Gábor , Fuerst Christian , Fuerst-Waltl Birgit
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The presented paper gives an overview about genetic diversity in Pinzgau populations in Austria and Slovakia. In total, 12 442 animals were included in the study representing the reference population. All living herdbook cows, dual purpose and beef, from both countries with a maximum foreign gene proportion of 12.5 % were considered. Thus, four subpopulations were analysed. Parameters of diversity based on probability of identity-by-descent and probability of gene origin were computed by the methods of pedigree analysis. The average inbreeding coefficient (five generations taken into account) was 0.0186 (ΔF=0.0041), 0.0242 (ΔF=0.0047), 0.0151 (ΔF=0.0026), and 0.0126 (ΔF=0.0006) in the Austrian dairy (AD), the Austrian beef (AB), the Slovak dairy (SD) and the Slovak beef (SB) subpopulation, respectively. Effective population size ranged from 122.5 (AD) to 809.4 (SB). Effective number of founders was 67.3 and 106.6 in AD and SD and 73 and 212.3 in the AB and SB subpopulations. Effective number of ancestors was 29.59; 34.42; 42.36 and 73.81 in AD, AB, SD and SB, respectively. Effective number of founder genomes was 15.32; 18.15; 23.41 and 41 in AD, AB, SD and SB subpopulations, respectively. Similarities between subpopulations were calculated based on a cosine approach. The highest similarity was found between AD and AB (cosine value 0.9954). SD and AD subpopulations were very similar (cosine value 0.9181).
Fatty acid profile of m. longissimus dorsi of
Mangalitsa and Moravka pig breeds
Authors: Petrović Milica , Wähner Martin , Radović Čedomir , Radojković Dragan , Parunović Nenad , Savić Radomir , Brkić Nenad
Published: May 2018

Abstract. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition and fatty acid content in m. longissimus dorsi (MLD) of two indigenous pig breeds (ML – Swallow-belly Mangalitsa and M – Moravka) reared in free range farm conditions and fed complete mixtures used for commercial meat pig genotypes. The body mass of ML and M pigs at slaughter was,on average, 107.14 and 107.61 kg, respectively. In MLD of M pigs, more total fat was measured compared to ML breed (6.96 % compared to 5.10 %, P<0.05). Protein content in MLD of ML pigs was higher by +0.92 % (P<0.01) compared to M pigs. Male castrates of M pigs had more fat compared to gilts of the same breed (8.64 compared to 5.29 %), and the 3.35 % difference between mean values was statistically significant (P<0.05). The breed of pigs influenced the total saturated fatty acids (P=0.011) and mono-unsaturated fatty acid (P=0.003) contents, but not the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (P=0.325). In the case of saturated fatty acids in the MLD of ML and M pigs, the most common were C16:0 (25.05 % and 25.53 %) and C18:0 (12.73 % and 14.40 %). The MLD of M pigs contained 1.67 % more stearic acid compared to ML pigs (P=0.004). Pigs of ML, compared to M pigs, had more C18:1cis-9 (+2.31 %), C16:1 (+0.49 %), C17:1 (+0.10 %) and less C20:1cis-11 (–0.25 %). The content of two essential fatty acids, C18:2n-6 and C18:3n-3, did not vary according to breed or sex of pigs (P>0.05). The n-6/n-3 ratio was higher than optimal (18.7 for breed ML and 13.7 for M).
Association between lactoferrin single nucleotide polymorphisms and milk production traits in Polish Holstein cattle
Authors: Pawlik Adrianna , Sender Grazyna , Sobczynska Magdalena , Korwin-Kossakowska Agnieszka , Oprzadek Jolanta , Lukaszewicz Marek
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Bovine lactoferrin exhibits strong potential for further applications as a mastitis resistance marker. Since selection for mastitis resistance should not interfere with dairy performance, we investigated the association between bovine lactoferrin gene polymorphism and production traits in Polish Holsteins. The associations between four SNPs, localized in the 5’-flanking region and in exons 4 and 9 of the lactoferrin gene, and dairy performance were examined. SNPs were associated with almost all test-day milk performance traits. Significant associations were found between lactoferrin genotypes and the estimated breeding values for those traits. To find out whether the discrepancies between the lactoferrin gene SNP’s influence on phenotype (test-day milk performance) and on estimated breeding values originate from the impact of other factors, we explored the genotype by environment interaction. Substantial impacts of SCC, lactation stage and parity were found. This paper suggests that the genotype by environment interaction may significantly change associations between genes and traits. It is important to include similar analyses to the studies on disease markers before using them in the selection.
Intolerance of uncertainty and conditioned place preference in opioid addiction
Authors: Radell Milen L. , Allen Michael Todd , Favaloro Belinda , Myers Catherine E. , Haber Paul , Morley Kirsten , Moustafa Ahmed A.
Published: May 2018

Several personality factors have been implicated in vulnerability to addiction by impacting learning and decision making. One such factor is intolerance of uncertainty (IU), the tendency to perceive uncertain situations negatively and avoid them. Conditioned place preference (CPP), which compares preference for contexts paired with reward, has been used to examine the motivation for both drug and non-drug rewards. However, preference for locations associated with non-drug reward, as well as the potential influence of IU, has not been thoroughly studied in individuals with addiction. In the current study, we examined CPP using a computer-based task in a sample of addicted individuals undergoing opioid maintenance treatment and never-addicted controls. Patients were confirmed to have higher IU than controls. In the CPP task, the two groups did not differ in overall time spent in the previously-rewarded context. However, controls were more likely than patients to immediately return to this context. Contrary to our predictions, IU was not a significant predictor of preference for the previously-rewarded context, although higher IU in controls was associated with a higher number of rewards obtained in the task. No such relationship was found in patients.