bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
YKL-40 Associates with Renal Recovery in Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Puthumana Jeremy , Hall Isaac E. , Reese Peter P. , Schröppel Bernd , Weng Francis L. , Thiessen-Philbrook Heather , Doshi Mona D. , Rao Veena , Lee Chun Geun , Elias Jack A. , Cantley Lloyd G. , Parikh Chirag R.
Published: July 2016

Deceased donor kidneys with AKI are often discarded for fear of poor transplant outcomes. Donor biomarkers that predict post-transplant renal recovery could improve organ selection and reduce discard. We tested whether higher levels of donor urinary YKL-40, a repair phase protein, associate with improved recipient outcomes in a prospective cohort study involving deceased kidney donors from five organ procurement organizations. We measured urinary YKL-40 concentration in 1301 donors (111 had AKI, defined as doubling of serum creatinine) and ascertained outcomes in the corresponding 2435 recipients, 756 of whom experienced delayed graft function (DGF). Donors with AKI had higher urinary YKL-40 concentration (P<0.001) and acute tubular necrosis on procurement biopsies (P=0.05). In fully adjusted analyses, elevated donor urinary YKL-40 concentration associated with reduced risk of DGF in both recipients of AKI donor kidneys (adjusted relative risk, 0.51 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.32 to 0.80] for highest versus lowest YKL-40 tertile) and recipients of non-AKI donor kidneys (adjusted relative risk, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.65 to 0.97]). Furthermore, in the event of DGF, elevated donor urinary YKL-40 concentration associated with higher 6-month eGFR (6.75 [95% CI, 1.49 to 12.02] ml/min per 1.73 m2) and lower risk of graft failure (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.50 [95% CI, 0.27 to 0.94]). These findings suggest that YKL-40 is produced in response to tubular injury and is independently associated with recovery from AKI and DGF. If ultimately validated as a prognostic biomarker, urinary YKL-40 should be considered in determining the suitability of donor kidneys for transplant.
Significance of Foxp3+CD4+ regulatory T cells in the peripheral blood of Uygur patients in the acute and chronic phases of pigeon breeder’s lung
Authors: Yu Biqing , Yang Xiaohong , Li Fengsen , Wu Chao , Wang Wenyi , Ding Wei
Published: July 2016

Pigeon breeder’s lung (PBL) is a type of lung inflammatory disease associated with the immune response to repeated pigeon-derived antigen exposure. The pathogenesis of PBL remains unclear. In this study, peripheral blood samples were collected from Uygur acute - and chronic-phase PBL patients and healthy subjects with pigeon contact. Foxp3+CD4+ regulatory T cell (Treg) activity in different phases of PBL was characterized by changes in Foxp3+CD4+ Treg, CD4+CD25+ T cell, and T lymphocyte subsets. Based on hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) diagnosis criteria, 32 PBL cases from January 2012 to December 2013 in the People’s Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Respiratory Department were included. Lung high-resolution computed tomography was performed, and the cases were classified based on the HP phase into 15 acute-phase and 17 chronic-phase cases. The control group included 30 healthy subjects with Uygur pigeon contact. Blood samples were collected, and the T cell subsets were analyzed via flow cytometry. In both PBL groups, the Foxp3+CD4+ Treg and CD4+CD25+ and CD4+CD3+ T cell percentages and CD4+/CD8+ ratios were significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.01). In the PBL groups, particularly the acute-phase group, the CD8+CD3+ T lymphocyte percentage was significantly higher than in the control group (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences in CD4+CD25+ cells between the PBL groups. In peripheral blood from the PBL groups, the CD4+/CD8+ ratio was positively correlated with the Foxp3+CD4+ Treg (r = 0.864, p < 0.05) and CD4+/CD25+ cell (r = 0.34, p < 0.05) percentages. Low Foxp3+CD4+ Treg expression or overconsumption may be a pathogenic factor in PBL.
The association of ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) K121Q gene polymorphism with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in European, American, and African populations: a meta-analysis
Authors: Fajar Jonny Karunia
Published: July 2016

Introduction: Several studies regarding the association of the ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) K121Q gene polymorphism with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) showed inconsistent results. This study aimed to investigate the association of ENPP1 K121Q gene polymorphism with T2DM risk using meta-analysis. The study was limited to the American, European, and African populations.Methods: PubMed and Embase databases were searched for eligible publications. The following information was extracted from each study: name of first author, publication year, country of origin, sample size of cases and controls, and size of each allele. The combined odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the association between ENPP1 K121Q gene polymorphism and T2DM risk were assessed using random or fixed effect model. A comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA) 2.0 was used to analyze the data.Results: Nineteen studies (17717 cases/28022 controls) on the association between ENPP1 K121Q gene polymorphism and T2DM risk were included in this meta-analysis. The results indicated that the ENPP1 K121Q gene polymorphism was associated with increased T2DM risk (Q vs. K genetic model, OR 95% CI = 1.11 [1.02–1.22], p = 0.014; QQ vs. KK + KQ, OR 95% CI = 1.14 [1.01–1.23], p = 0.039) and decreased T2DM risk (K vs. Q, OR 95% CI = 0.90 [0.82–1.00], p = 0.014; KK vs. KQ + QQ, OR 95% CI = 0.89 [0.80–0.98], p = 0.024).Conclusions: The results indicate that the ENPP1 K121Q gene polymorphism is associated with the risk of T2DM in the American, European, and African populations.
Efficacy of diatomacious earth in amelioration of aflatoxin induced toxicity in broiler chicken
Authors: Lakkawar* A.W. , Sathyanarayana1 M.L. , Narayanaswamy H.D. , . Sugunarao , Yathiraj S. , S.K. Isloor , Shridhar2 N.B. , Krishnaveni N.
Published: July 2016

The ability of Diatomacious earth (DAE) in reducing the toxic effects of aflatoxin (AF) in broiler diet was evaluated. DAE was supplemented @ 400 and 800 mg kg-1 of feed along with 0.5 and 1 ppm of AF kg-1 of feed. Healthy unsexed day old broiler chicks (n=360) were assigned to 9 groups comprising of control and treatment groups. Feeding of AF resulted in significantly lower feed intake as well as body weight gain and increase in feed conversion ratio in comparison to the control groups. Supplementation of DAE in aflatoxin mixed diet significantly reduced the deleterious effects of AF on growth parameters. Feeding of AF alone caused significant decrease in serum levels of total proteins, albumin, triglycerides and cholesterol. However, significant increase was found in serum levels of AST, ALT, ALP, BUN and creatinine in AF fed broilers. Supplementation of DAE to the AF mixed feed ameliorated the adverse effect of AF on the serum biochemical values by causing increase in serum total proteins, albumin, triglycerides and cholesterol levels. In addition, a significant increase was recorded in AST, ALT, ALP, BUN and creatinine levels in DAE supplemented broilers. The study concluded that diatomaceous earth is an effective adsorbent to decrease the negative effects of aflatoxin in broiler chicken.
Comparison of different diagnostic test to detect feline panleukopenia virus among cats in Kerala, India
Authors: P. Raheena Koulath , Priya* P. M. , Mani Binu K , Mini M. , Pillai Usha Narayana
Published: July 2016

Feline panleukopenia (FPL) is an acute viral infection of domestic and wild felids causing high mortality among non immune kittens. Commercially available immunochromatographic (IC) strips, haemagglutination (HA) test and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were employed to detect FPLV. In the current study IC strip test and HA test were compared with PCR. A total of 27 faecal samples from cats clinically suspected for FPL infection were collected from five districts of Kerala, India. Out of 27 samples tested, 10 were positive by IC strips, while 8 and 21 samples were found positive by HA test and PCR, respectively. On statistical analysis, specificity of IC strip and HA test versus PCR was excellent (100 per cent), whereas sensitivity was poor. In comparison with PCR, sensitivity for IC strip test and HA test was 47.6 per cent and 38.1 per cent, respectively. The study showed PCR assay as a sensitive, specific and rapid technique for FPLV detection in cats using faecal specimens.
Protective role and antioxidant activity of arabic gum againsttrichloroacetate-induced toxicity in liver of male rats
Authors: Ayaz Najla O. , Ramadan Kholoud S. , Farid Hoda E.A. , Alnahdi Hanan S.
Published: July 2016

Investigation of functional hepatoprotective components from plants origin is a new model for drug evolution. The study examined the protective effects of Arabic gum (AG) induction on liver serum markers, antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation in liver tissue against trichloroacetate (TCA) induced hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. Also, the chemical constituents and antioxidant assay of aqueous extract of AG was determined. TCA at the dose of 50 mg/kg for 2 months produced hepatotoxicity as examined by the significant increase of serum activities of ALT, AST, ALP and conjugated bilirubin level in the TCA treated animals alone and decrease in total protein and albumin levels. Pretreatment with AG aqueous extract (0.5 g/kg/day) significantly (P< 0.05) lowered the serum enzyme activities and increased in total proteins and albumin level. The antioxidant studies showed that the activities of hepatic SOD, CAT and GPx were decreased in TCA induced animals with significantly elevated in MDA content which is reversed in pretreatment with aqueous extract of AG. Histopathology of the liver sections confirmed that the AG extract ameliorated hepatic damage induced by TCA. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that AG supplementation for 2 months in TCA induced toxicity in rats benefited hepatic antioxidant status and improved liver injury and damage in male albino rats exposed to TCA.
Concentrations of macroelements and trace elements in milk of Jersey cows
Authors: Proskura Natalia , Podlasinska Joanna , Proskura Witold Stanislaw , Frost-Rutkowska Anna , Dybus Andrzej , Szydlowski Kamil
Published: July 2016

The aim of the study was to determine concentration of macroelements (P, Ca, Mg, Na, K), and some microelements, including toxic heavy metals (Cr, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Pb, Cd and Hg) in milk of Jersey cows. Milk samples were collected from Jersey cows kept in tie-stall barn in Greater Poland Province. The feeding was based on total mixed ration mixture. The maximum permitted level of Pb concentration in raw milk (0.02 mg/kg wet weight)was significantly exceeded (0.063±0.035 mg/dm3). The content of Hg was very low (0.106±0.057 μg/dm3).Significant (P£0.05) Spearman coefficient correlations were observed between contents of some elements in milk. Especially interesting were positive correlations of heavy metals: Cd-Cr, Co-Mn, Cr-Zn, Mn-Zn. Additionally the content of Ca was positively correlated with numerous elements: Hg, Cr, Cu, Mn, Zn, Mg, and negatively correlated with the content of Fe.
Comparative anlysis of the differential expressed proteins in serumbetween healthy and Brucellaovis infected sheep
Authors: Wang Guoping , Wu Run
Published: July 2016

Disease-related serum proteins in sheep infected with Brucellaovis were assessed by conventional two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE). High-abundance proteins in serum were depleted by Albumin & IgG Depletion SpintrapTM, with the remaining proteins retrieved using the 2-D clean-up kit. Differentially expressed proteins were detected with the PDQUest8.0 software and identified by a high performance liquid chromatography system equipped with an ion trap mass spectrometer. Both SDS-PAGE and 2-DE gel electrophoresis confirmed that high-abundance protein components were removed thoroughly by the 2-D clean-up kit and Albumin & IgG Depletion SpintrapTM. A total of 9 differentially expressed protein spots were successfully identified as haptoglobin, serum amyloid A, Ig heavy chain, Igl-1 chain, and apolipoprotein C-III, known to be involved in stress response, energy metabolism, and material transport. These findings provide a valuable clue for investigating host immune response to pathogens at the protein level; further understanding of these novel proteins identified would be helpful for finding out potential candidate targets for diagnosis and developing new vaccines for brucellosis.
Influence of genetic and non genetic factors on growth traits of Bharat Merino sheep in sub-temperate climate of Kodai hills of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Mallick P.K. , Pourouchottamane R. , Rajapandi S. , Thirumaran S.M.K. , Venkataraman1 R. , Nagarajan G. , Murali G. , Rajendiran A.S.
Published: July 2016

In the present study, the data on 1649 Bharat Merino (BM) lambs; progeny of 144 sires over the year from 2000 to 2014 available at Southern Regional Research Centre (SRRC), Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Mannavanur were considered for the analysis. The different economic growth traits used for the analysis were birth weight (BWT), weaning weight (3MWT), 6 month weight (6MWT), 12 month weight (12MWT) and greasy fleece yield (GFY). The overall least-square means for weights (in kg) were 3.28±0.02, 19.08±0.23, 25.00±0.35, 34.79±0.59 and 2.13±0.07 for BWT, 3MWT, 6MWT, 12MWT and GFY respectively. Different non genetic factors such as year, sex, type of birth and dam’s age had significant (P less than 0.01) influence on BWT and 3MWT. Season influenced the BWT (P less than 0.05) while it had no significant effect on 3MWT. Six month weight was also significantly (P less than 0.05) influenced by all non-genetic factors taken under present study. Twelve month weight was significantly affected by year (P less than 0.01), sex and season (P less than 0.05). Similarly, analysis of variance showed that the year, sex of the lambs (P less than 0.01) and season (P less than 0.05) were important sources of variation on GFY of Bharat Merino sheep. Lambs born single had higher values of BWT and 3MWT than that of the lambs born as twins. The trend of the increase in BWT and 3MWT of the lambs is being observed up to the period when the age of their corresponding dams is 4-5 years. The findings of the present study showed that non - genetic factors play an important role in the expression of genetic potential in the lambs as well as growth performance of Bharat Merino sheep under sub temperate conditions of Kodai hills of Tamil Nadu, India. The genetic parameters estimated of 6MWT indicate that it is most suitable for use as selection criterion. Improvement of body weight of BM sheep seems feasible in selection programs, as some of the related traits are moderately heritable and those traits specially are well correlated, which could suggest that these traits are useful in selection programs.
Effects of Hypericum perforatum extract on the endocrine immunenetwork factors in the immunosuppressed Wistar rat
Authors: Hao Baocheng , Hu Xiaoyan , Wang Xuehong , Liu Yu , Yang Zhen , Guo Wenzhu , Shang Ruofeng , Liang Jianping
Published: July 2016

The study aimed to investigate the effects of Hypericum perforatum extract on the endocrine immune network factors in the immunosuppressed rat. Wistar rats were used to establish an immunosuppression model. Immunosuppressed rats received Hypericum perforatum extract suspension for 7 days at doses of 600 mg/kg (containing hyperforin at 7.2mg/kg).Endocrine immune network factors including IL-1, DA, NE, and 5-HT were determined on day 8.The results indicated that Hypericum perforatum extract affects the endocrine immune network through decreasing endogenous IL-1,dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and 5- hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels. Hyperforin reverses immune suppression through enhancing DA levels to inhibit B cells while promoting T cell and macrophage functions to recover immune function.
Financial losses due to fertility problems in Anatolian Dairy Buffalo
Authors: Cicek Hasan , Tandogan Murat , Uyarlar Cangir
Published: July 2016

This study was performed to determine the financial losses due to fertility problems in Anatolian Dairy Buffaloes. The study material was lactation average values of Anatolian Dairy Buffalo. Age at first calving and calving interval were evaluated as fertility parameters. The financial losses relevant to one-day extension of these parameters were calculated. Bull cost was determined as per pregnancy, due to natural mating usually occurs in Anatolian Buffalo. The prices of calf, milk and feed were used in calculations. Accordingly, financial losses of one-day extension per animal in age at first calving and calving interval estimated were US$ 8.88 and US$ 6.07, respectively. When bull cost per pregnancy (US$ 6.49) was included, total losses were detemined as US$ 21.44. As a conclusion, it was determined that fertility losses may be induced in age at first calving and calving interval according to the deviations of target values. It was emphasized that financial losses might be reduced with improving of environmental factors in buffaloes which have important fertility disadvantages according to dairy cattle.
Isolation of pathogenic fungi from the major cultivated coldwater fish species and their environment in the kumaon region of Uttrakhand
Authors: Kumar Avdhesh , Singh Raghvendra , Pandey N.N.
Published: July 2016

An attempt has been made to isolate the pathogenic fungus from water, body tissue of cold water fish. The hemp seed culture was applied to obtain the fungal colonies and bacteria free pure isolate was obtained by repeated subcultures, using SDA (Sabouraud Dextrose Agar) under aseptic condition and allowed to incubate at 18-200C for 48 hours. Fungal infection was more prominent in the ponds of stagnant water than the running water raceways. The inferior water quality of the stagnant fish ponds supports the virulence of the fungus spores. The muscles of the rainbow trout, fins and gills of the carp were susceptible for the infection. Intensity of the infection in cold water fish species increases with the downfall of the water temperature. The pathogenic fungi in the present study was identified as Saprolegnia parasitica, Saprolegnia diclina and S. ferax with cotton like appearance, elongated zoosporangia and pear shaped primary sporangium.
Evaluation of function of RICTOR gene in gga-mir-142-3pknockdowned developing chicken embryo
Authors: Paramasivam Raja , Tembhurne Prabhakar , Pannerselvam Maneshkumar , Ingle Vijay , Kurkure Nitin , Kalorey Dewananad
Published: July 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a large classes of endogenous non coding RNAs of about 18-21 nucleotides long. It regulates the gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding partial or complete complementary sites in 3' UTRs. The miR-142-3p was highly expressed in all native cell lineages of haematopoietic organs. It has been reported that miR-142-3p was highly expressed in embryonic day 15 and day 20 in spleen and bursa of Fabricius of chicken. The present study was planned to knock down the gga-miR142-3p in chicken embryonic developmental stages for identification of its role in morphogenesis at embryonic spleen and bursa of Fabricius development. Knock down of miR-142-3p in the 14 days old embryonic eggs was carried out by intravenous inoculation of LNA modified miR-142-3p inhibitor. Organs were harvested from the embryos at the embryonic day of 20 and analyzed for gross pathological, histopathological changes and RICTOR gene expressions have been analyzed using SYBR Green qPCR technology. The results indicated that the RICTOR gene was upregulated in all the immune organs and visceral organs except kidney. The over expression of RICTOR gene lead to defective actin reorganization in the cells that will affect the change in the cell structural integrity and cell survival. Over expression of RICTOR gene is associated with increased proliferation of cells along with invasion of tumor cells.
Genetic studies on growth, reproduction and wool production traits in Harnali sheep
Authors: . Lalit , Malik Z.S. , Dalal D.S. , Patil C.S. , Dahiya S.P.
Published: July 2016

Data on growth, reproduction and wool traits of 1603 Harnali sheep maintained at Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar over a period of 22 years (1992-2013) were utilized for genetic analysis. The overall least squares mean for birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), six month body weight (SMW), age at first lambing (AFL), weight at lambing (WL), average lambing interval (ALI), greasy fleece weight (GFW), staple length (SL) and Fibre diameter (FD) were estimated as 3.35±0.02 kg, 12.41±0.08 kg, 16.30±0.12 kg, 707.05±2.07 days, 26.91±0.10 kg and 402.85±2.40 days, 1.62±0.02 kg, 5.65±0.03 cm and 25.85±0.07 µ, respectively. The effect of year of birth, sex of lamb and dam’s weight at lambing were significant for all growth traits. The effect of year of birth and dam’s weight at lambing were significant for all reproduction traits and GFW. No definite trend was observed over the years for body weights and reproductive traits. The effect of sex was significant for early growth traits. The heritability estimates were moderate for all the growth traits with high genetic correlations of BW and WW with SMW. Reproduction traits had lower estimates of heritability which indicated presence of lower additive genetic variance for these traits. Heritability estimates for studied wool traits were moderate to high. Positive genetic and phenotypic correlation of BW and WW with six month body weight and grease fleece weight indicated that selection for six month body weight would increase body weight and grease fleece weight.
Investigation of intestinal parasites infections in free-range poultry of Anhui Province, China
Authors: Tu Yiqiang , Zhang Hui , Li Kun , Wang Yajing , Rehman Mujeeb Ur , Luo Houqiang
Published: July 2016

To evaluate the status of intestinal parasite infections in free-range poultry of Anhui province, fecal samples from chickens, ducks, gooses and pigeons were analysed from June 2014 to October 2014. The results showed that intestinal parasite infection rate in free-range chickens, ducks, gooses and pigeons were 70.9%, 13.4%, 18.4% and 80.0%, respectively. The predominant parasites in chickens were Capillaria obsignata, Ascaridia galli and Coccidium spp. followed by Opisthorchis spp. and Capillaria caudinflata in ducks and gooses, respectively. The parasites found in pigeons were Capillaria obsignata, Heterakis and coccidia. The present survey showed that intestinal parasitic infection is widely spread in free-range poultry in central cities of Anhui province, causing a high risk factor for poultry industry.
General linear model analysis of behavioural responses of Boer and Tswana goats to successive handling
Authors: Molale G. , Antwi M.A. , Lekunze J.N. , Luvhengo U.
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the behavioural response of Boer goats and Tswana goats to successive handling. Boer goats and Tswana goats were subjected to aging and tail restrain during handling. Behavioural response was recorded through the vocalisation score (VS), crush score (CS), flight speed (FS), and flight time (FT) scores twice a week for eight weeks. A total of thirty six Boer goats and Tswana goats were used in this experiment. The results indicated that the Tswana goats were the most temperament (p less than 0.05) and Boer goats were the calmest. Behavioural scores significantly increased throughout the experiment.
Genetic analysis of growth, production and reproduction traits afterlong-term selection in Rhode Island Red chicken
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev
Published: July 2016

In present investigation, 325 single-hatched RIR chicks that has undergone 30 generation of selection based on 40-week part-period egg production were evaluated for growth and layer economic traits using least-squares analysis of variance. Overall least-square means of body weight at 16, 20, 40 and 64 weeks of age were 1362.6±21.4g, 1791.6±24.5g, 2184.6±26.2g and 2433.8±34.2g, respectively. Males were significantly heavier than females (P£0.001) at all ages. Least-square means of age at sexual maturity, egg weight at 28, 40 and 64 weeks of age, egg number up to 40 and 64 weeks of age were 134.5±0.9days, 44.8±0.3g, 47.73±0.4g, 51.5±0.7g, 118.3±1.2eggs and 214.5±4.8eggs, respectively. Heritability estimates were high for growth and low to medium for layer economic traits. Genetic and phenotypic correlations among body weights were high and positive. The egg production up to 40 weeks revealed high and positive genetic (0.89±0.15) as well as phenotypic (0.63) correlations with egg production up to 64 weeks suggesting the its usefulness as selection criterion for genetic improvement of annual egg production.
Differential expression of Agouti mRNA and its coding protein in viscera of goat with different coat color
Authors: MA Jianqing , Peng Yongdong , Li* Xianglong
Published: July 2016

ASIP has been described to regulate lipid metabolism and acts as a paracrine factor in the regulation of adiposity. The RT-qPCR and Western Blotting was used to investigate the expression level of Agouti mRNA and Agouti signaling protein (ASIP) in viscera (heart, liver, spleen, lung and kidney) of goat with white, brown with gray and black coat color. The main trend of Agouti mRNA abundance represented white goat and liver tissue obviously. The protein was detected in all viscera tissues and it expressed white goat and kidney mainly. However, ASIP differential expresses in different viscera for goats weren’t consistent with the mRNA levels. The differences might be the result from the transcription regulation, translation regulation, protein modified and protein interaction and so on.
Influence of stocking density on the performance, carcass characteristics, hemato-biochemical indices of Vanaraja chickens
Authors: Gupta Shailesh Kumar , Behera Kumaresh , Pradhan C.R. , Acharya Aditya Prasad , Sethy Kamdev , Behera Dayanidhi , Lone S.A. , Shinde K.P.
Published: July 2016

A total 90 Vanaraja experimental birds were divided into three respective groups based on floor density viz., G1 (16 birds/m2), G2 (12 birds/m2) and G3 (8 birds/m2). No significant difference in average live weight and carcass weight was observed between groups. Average feed consumption, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and dressing percentage in G2 and G3 was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher as compared to G1. There were no significant effect (P greater than 0.05) of stocking density in the carcass characteristics except the heart weight. There were non significant differences among groups for total protein, albumin, globulin and A:G ratio. Blood glucose was significantly (P greater than 0.05) higher in group G1 as compared to G2 and G3. Blood cholesterol level increased with increase in stocking density but not significantly. Blood parameters eosinophil, monocyte, basophil counts and H:L ratio were not affected by the stocking density. Hb concentration increased non-significantly with increased stocking density. Vanaraja birds from 8 birds/m2 to 12 birds/m2 give the better growth performance, FCR and dressing percentage without change in blood biochemical and hematological indices.
Characterization and validation of point mutation in Exon 19 of Calcium Channel, voltage-dependent, Alpha-2/Delta subunit 1(CACNA2D1) gene and its relationship with mastitis traits in Sahiwal
Authors: Magotra Ankit , Gupta I.D. , Verma Archana , Alex Rani , Arya Ashwani , M.R Vineeth , Kumar Vijay
Published: July 2016

Calcium channel, voltage-dependent, alpha-2/ delta subunit 1 (CACNA2D1) gene plays an important role in excitation-contraction coupling in muscle-cells, glial cells and neurons. The CACNA2D1 gene may be one of the candidate genes related with some phenotypic traits due to its location in QTLs associated with Somatic cell score (SCS ) and mastitis. A total of 120 Sahiwal cattle were selected to characterize exon 19 of CACNA2D1 gene to identify polymorphism and its association with mastitis susceptibility/resistance. A 249 bp PCR fragment of CACNA2D1 gene encompassing the exon 19 and partial intronic region was amplified and digested with Hae III to screen the SNP which was significantly associated with SCS. Genotype analysis using PCR-RFLP revealed a monomorphic banding pattern. Sequencing was also carried out to explore other SNPs which are deposited in dbSNP in the nucleotide sequence of a particular region. This study provides preliminary information that the targeted region of CACNA2D1 gene in indigenous cattle has no significant association with mastitis resistance which may be a breed specific characteristic.
Impact of net charge of mineral supplements onhaematological profile in dairy cows
Authors: Babu S. Kiran , Srinivas B.
Published: July 2016

Study evaluated changes in haematological profile for dairy cows when supplemented with essential cation (T1), anion (T2) or both (T3) and compared with control without any mineral supplements (MS). Basal diet consisted fresh para grass, ragi straw and concentrate supplement. Net charge of the MS of T1, T2 and T3 was +0.87, –1.55 and –0.64, respectively. DM and OM intake were comparable between CG and TGs. RBC (p< 0.10), HCT (p< 0.02) and RDW (p< 0.10) were significantly higher in T3 but comparable between CG, T1 and T2. PLT (p< 0.06) and PCT (p< 0.10) were higher in T1 and T2 and least in CG. Study concluded that net ion charge of MS either positive or negative had no effect on haematological profile in dairy cows. Impact was better when MS contained both essential cation and anion minerals.
Comparison among meat quality classes according to the criteria ofpost-mortem pH24hr, drip loss and color in Berkshire pigs
Authors: Kim Tae Wan , Kim Il-Suk , Ha Jeongim , Kwon Seul Gi , Hwang Jung Hye , Park Da Hye , Kang Deok Gyeong , Kim Sam Woong , Kim Chul Wook
Published: July 2016

This study was performed to analyze the difference between the meat properties classified into 5 ranges depending on Berkshire meat quality traits. Post-mortem pH24hr was positively correlated with water holding capacity, but negatively correlated with meat color, protein content, drip loss, and cooking loss. Berkshire gilt was discovered by higher population of RFN (reddish pink, firm, non-exudative), a normal meat class when compared to barrow, whereas DFD (dark, firm, and dry) was not detected and PSE (pale, soft and floppy, exudative) and RSE (reddish pink, soft and floppy, exudative) were found by a low number of individuals. It was assumed that Berkshire gilt is less susceptible to stress when compared with barrow. Therefore, from the results of this study, we suggest that Berkshire gilt is high possibility for production of good meat due to a forming ability for better meat quality than that of Berkshire barrow.
Effect of rodenticides and traps against lesser bandicoot rat, (Bandicota bengalensis) in rice field
Authors: Borah* R.K. , Mallick A.
Published: July 2016

An investigation was carried out at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Titabor and Instructional-Cum- Research Farm, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat during 2013-14 and 2014-15 in boro and sali season respectively. The field trials were conducted to evaluate effectiveness by combining rodenticides with local bamboo traps against field rodents in rice. Combined effect of rodenticides and traps were evaluated at different growth stages of rice against Bandicota bengalensis in terms of live burrow count (LBC/ha), trapping index (TI) as well as per cent cut tillers in both boro and sali rice, respectively. Baiting with bromadiolone (0.005%) at panicle initiation stage and bamboo traps at milky stage recorded the highest reduction in rodent population (72.39% LBC/ha, 70.57% TI and 68.13% cut tillers) in boro and (72.27% LBC/ha, 77.13% TI and 70.77% cut tillers) in sali rice over control at harvesting stage. The second best treatment in respect of per cent reduction of LBC/ha, trap index and cut tillers was bamboo traps at maximum tillering stage and bromadiolone (0.005%) at panicle initiation stage in both boro and sali rice, respectively which recorded a reduction of 65.89% LBC/ha, 66.19% TI and 65.66% cut tillers in boro rice and 68.33% LBC/ha, 71.04% TI and 62.83% tiller damage in sali rice
Decomposition analysis and acreage response of pigeonpea in western Vidarbha
Authors: Sandeep M. Vikram , Thakare S. S. , Ulemale D. H.
Published: July 2016

In the present investigation, an attempt was made to study the decomposition and acreage response of pigeonpea in western Vidarbha. The study was based on time series secondary data on the rainfall, farm harvest prices and other data, which were obtained from various Government publications. Nerlovian lagged adjustment model (1958) was used in acreage response analysis based on time series data. The study revealed that the compound growth rate for area and production under pigeon pea was recorded high during period I in all the districts. During period II, the area, production and productivity of pigeonpea registered mostly negative growth rates in all the districts. During period III, the compound growth rate for area, production and productivity under pigeonpea has increased in all the districts of western Vidarbha region. At overall period, the coefficient of variation and Coppock's instability index for area, production and productivity were high for pigeonpea in Akola district compared to other districts and coefficient of variation and Coppock's instability index for production and productivity were lowest for pigeonpea in Amravati district. At overall period, in pigeonpea, the area effect (56.61%) was most responsible factor for increasing production in Amravati division with positive yield and interaction effect i.e. 18.91 per cent and 23.75 per cent respectively.
Inaperturate pollen diversity in the arborescent taxa ofKarimnagar district, Telangana State, India
Authors: Kailas J. Ganga , Ramakrishna H. , Prabhaker R.
Published: July 2016

The present investigation deals with the study of inaperturate pollen taxa of eleven (11) tree species of Karimnagar district, Telangana State. These taxa belong to Annonaceae, Eupharbiaceae, Hernandiaceae, Musaceae and Fabaceae- Mimosoideae families. The pollen of these arborescent plants have diversity in pollen morphological characters viz., symmetry, shape, polarity and ornamentation, but significantly all the pollen taxa have inaperturate apertural partten. This study provides palynological data of the inaperturate pollen taxa, which will expensive help in future palynotaxonomic studies in Karimnagar district.
Water demand management in different structures of agriculture product market (A case study of Coastal Lands of Yengejeh Dam)
Authors: Tupkanloo1 Zahra Noori , Yazdani*2 Saeed , Moghadasi3 Reza
Published: July 2016

This research aims to study the management of water demand in different product markets in downstream lands of Yengejeh Dam in Neyshabur. This is an exploration research survey and library study conducted in 2015-2016. The required information to test the research hypotheses was gathered by questionnaire. The statistical population includes 150 wheat farmers randomly selected A scenario of increasing the elasticity of product demand in resource allocation in the competitive and monopolar water market was developed by assimilation algorithm in the studied region. According to the market situation of water in the region which is almost similar to monopoly water market, the results suggest that wheat farming can be superseded by farming some other trade and export-oriented crops. This brings about an increasing amount of product and yield per hectare of land with using less water supply and less area under cultivation.
Eating in “SINC”: Safe Individualized Nipple-Feeding Competence, a Quality Improvement Project to Explore Infant-Driven Oral Feeding for Very Premature Infants Requiring Noninvasive Respiratory Support
Authors: Dalgleish Stacey R. , Kostecky Linda L. , Blachly Noreen
Published: July 2016

Abstract

Oral feeding is a developmental task for all premature infants. Often, independent nipple feeding is the last barrier to discharge home from the NICU. A relationship exists between consistent, infant-driven feeding management practices and improved feeding performance. Conversely, a random approach to feeding may contribute to poor short-term and long-term clinical outcomes.

We report a quality improvement project that was undertaken across five NICUs in an urban setting. Our aim was to safely initiate and advance nipple feeding for very preterm neonates (born at <32 weeks gestation) who had a respiratory morbidity requiring nasal continuous positive airway pressure therapy.

A novel algorithm entitled “Eating in SINC: Safe Individualized Nipple-Feeding Competence” was developed. Safe individualized nipple-feeding competence involves the baby, the parents, and the health care team by using infant-driven strategies, common language, and developmentally appropriate goals while supporting fragile neonates to be skilled feeders.
Association Between High Serum Total Cholesterol and Periodontitis: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011 to 2012 Study of American Adults
Authors: Thapa Susan , Wei Feifei
Published: July 2016

Background: Clinical studies have suggested that lipids increase activity of white blood cells. The objective of this study is to examine whether high serum total cholesterol (STC) is associated with periodontitis.

Methods: A total of 1,061 participants from the 2011 to 2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey who underwent both periodontal examination and laboratory test for STC was included. To examine effects of high STC on periodontitis, odds ratios were calculated, adjusting for age, sex, education, income, smoking status, diabetes, body mass index, and calcium levels.

Results: Statistically significant associations were observed between borderline as well as high STC and periodontitis. Study participants with STC between 200 and 239 mg/dL (borderline) were 1.67 times (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13 to 2.47) as likely to have periodontitis as those with normal levels (≤199 mg/dL), and those with STC ≥240 mg/dL (high) were 2.22 times (95% CI: 1.27 to 3.87) as likely to have periodontitis as those with normal levels.

Conclusions: Positive significant association was observed between STC and periodontitis. Results of the present study provide insight into potential risk factors for periodontitis. High STC levels could be a potential risk factor for the disease; however, further studies need to be conducted to understand the actual relationship between STC levels and periodontitis and to establish causality and directional association.
Effect of Curcumin on Systemic T Helper 17 Cell Response; Gingival Expressions of Interleukin‐17 and Retinoic Acid Receptor‐Related Orphan Receptor γt; and Alveolar Bone Loss in Experimental Periodontitis
Authors: Bakır Burcu , Yetkin Ay Zuhal , Büyükbayram H. İbrahim , Kumbul Doğuç Duygu , Bayram Dilek , Candan İ. Aydın , Uskun Ersin
Published: July 2016

Background: Curcumin has anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects and is reported to have many biologic activities. The current study examines effect of curcumin on: 1) systemic T helper 17 (Th17) cell response; 2) gingival expressions of interleukin (IL)‐17 and retinoic acid receptor‐related orphan receptor (ROR) γt; and 3) alveolar bone loss (ABL) in experimental periodontitis.

Methods: Thirty‐eight male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups: 1) group 1 = periodontitis; 2) group 2 = periodontitis with curcumin treatment; 3) group 3 = periodontally healthy with curcumin treatment; and 4) group 4 = periodontally healthy. Curcumin was administered via oral gavage (30 mg/kg/d) for 15 days. After sacrifice via exsanguination, the following serum levels were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay: 1) IL‐1β; 2) IL‐6; 3) IL‐17A; 4) IL‐23; and 5) transforming growth factor‐ β. Morphometric evaluation of ABL was conducted and expression levels of IL‐17 and RORγt in gingival tissues were evaluated immunohistochemically.

Results: Group 2 had significantly lower ABL than group 1 (P <0.0125). Highest expression levels of IL‐17 and RORγt were observed in group 1 and were significantly higher than those in all other groups (P <0.0125). The only serum biochemical parameter significantly different among groups was level of IL‐23 (P <0.05). Serum IL‐23 levels were higher in groups 1 and 2 than groups 3 and 4 (P <0.0125); however, they were not significantly different for groups 1 and 2 (P >0.0125).

Conclusion: Curcumin seems to be a promising host modulatory agent in periodontal disease pathogenesis regarding IL‐17/IL‐23 axis, with a decreasing effect on ABL and gingival expressions of IL‐17 and RORγt.
Non‐Clinical Factors Associated With Referrals to Periodontal Specialists: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kraatz Jennifer , Hoang Ha , Ivanovski Saso , Crocombe Leonard A.
Published: July 2016

Background: Comprehensive understanding of the referral process and factors associated with it will assist general dentist (GD)–periodontist relationships and benefit patient care and services. Non‐clinical factors (NCFs) influence clinical decision making but are rarely considered. The objective of this review is to identify NCFs found to be associated with referrals to periodontal specialists.

Methods: A systematic review of English‐language literature was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. An electronic search was carried out using the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Dentistry and Oral Sciences Sources, and PubMed. Search terms used included: 1) refer; 2) referral; 3) periodontal; and 4) periodontist. Potentially relevant publications were analyzed in detail using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Selected papers were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and data extracted were thematically synthesized.

Results: Ten studies that examined NCFs fulfilled inclusion criteria. Four NCF themes identified were practice‐, GD‐, patient‐, and periodontist‐related factors.

Conclusions: Limited literature is available on NCFs associated with referrals to periodontal specialists. Within the limits of this systematic review, NCFs affecting the referral process are practice‐, GD‐, patient‐, and periodontist‐related factors. These vary among different GD populations studied. Factors that could be targeted to improve referral processes include geographic location, undergraduate training, and continuing professional development.
Mining Related Articles for Automatic Journal Cataloging
Authors: Mao Yuqing , Lu Zhiyong
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This paper is an investigation of the effectiveness of the method of clustering biomedical journals through mining the content similarity of journal articles.

Design/methodology/approach

3,265 journals in PubMed are analyzed based on article content similarity and Web usage, respectively. Comparisons of the two analysis approaches and a citation-based approach are given.

Findings

Our results suggest that article content similarity is useful for clustering biomedical journals, and the content-similarity-based journal clustering method is more robust and less subject to human factors compared with the usage-based approach and the citation-based approach.

Research limitations

Our paper currently focuses on clustering journals in the biomedical domain because there are a large volume of freely available resources such as PubMed and MeSH in this field. Further investigation is needed to improve this approach to fit journals in other domains.

Practical implications

Our results show that it is feasible to catalog biomedical journals by mining the article content similarity. This work is also significant in serving practical needs in research portfolio analysis.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, we are among the first to report on clustering journals in the biomedical field through mining the article content similarity. This method can be integrated with existing approaches to create a new paradigm for future studies of journal clustering.
Career guidance for social justice
Authors: Hooley Tristram , Sultana Ronald G.
Published: July 2016

This editorial sets the context for issue 36 of the NICEC journal which is focused on social justice and career guidance. The editorial explores the key themes of the issue highlighting the social justice tradition within the career guidance field and making the case for a strong focus on social justice. However the editorial also highlights the tensions that exist between career guidance’s orientation to the individual and understandings of social justice which are more socially orientated. The editorial concludes by arguing that if career guidance is to formulate a meaningful response to social injustice it needs to draw on diverse theoretical traditions and stimulate new forms of practice.
From mutualism to individual competitiveness: Implications and challenges for social justice within career guidance in neoliberal times
Authors: Plant Peter , Kjærgård Roger
Published: July 2016

The beginning of the twentieth century was a time of great societal and social change in the US. Many people struggled to find their way in a transformed and rapidly transforming society in which there was an increasing divide between the rich and the poor. Parsons and the social reformers of his time were advocates for the poor, youth, women and disadvantaged, and (Parsons, 1909) understood his vocational guidance work with individuals within a broad vision of social change. Over time, career guidance has been criticised for its lack of attention to this broad vision of social change, being more and more individualised in its practice. The changes of the 21st century have been described as neoliberal with focus on global competitiveness and increased individual autonomy. This article examines the roots  of career guidance and the implications and challenges of social justice within career guidance in neoliberaltimes.
Narrowing participation? Contesting the dominant discourse of employability in contemporary higher education
Authors: Rooney Steve , Rawlinson Mark
Published: July 2016

This article considers the various roles the so called ‘employability agenda’ plays in helping to narrow the terms of participation in higher education (HE) around definitions of educational value dominated by neoliberalist notions of ‘human capital’. The article argues that as these definitions become naturalised in the behaviour of learners and their teachers it behoves us (academics, careers educators, learning developers et al.) to draw attention to the conditions of learning and to the broader scheme of values around work and identity, and models of success, which shape them in the 21st Century university.
The practice portrait – a method for promoting social justice in practice
Authors: Thomsen Rie
Published: July 2016

The ability of the individual practitioner to grasp how her own practice is interwoven with different societal structures and interests can be seen as the first step on the way to social justice. This article investigates how the practice portrait can be used as an analytical and practical method to nurture this ability. The practice portrait was developed within the tradition of critical psychology to reduce the gap between research and practice by giving voice to practitioners in various social practices. In this article, I use the practice portrait alongside practitioners at a university career centre.