bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The fish-biological assessment of carps hybrids of Ukrainian selection in the fi rst year of life
Authors: Oleshko M. , Bekh V. , Oleshko О. , Geyko L.
Published: August 2020

It was made the fi sh-biological assessment of yearlings carp hybrids obtained as a result of crossings of the Nivkovsky plant line of the small-scaled internal breed type of the Ukrainian Ramov breed and the Nivkovsky internal breed type of the Ukrainian scaly breed. The studies were carried out on the basis of the Institute of Fisheriesdepartment of the NAAS, Ukraine "Nivki", TOV "Skvirapleribribosp" and the laboratory of the Department of Production and Processing of Fish Products of the Belotserkovsky NAU according to practical standard in fi sh farming. As a control group, there were used carps of the Nivkovsky internal breed of Ukrainian scaly breed, with a total planting density of 30 thousand specimens. / ha. The research ponds were stocked with three-day larvae in early June. According to the content of the main cations and anions, nutrients and organic matter, the water of the research reservoirs of the Squirapleribribosp Ltd. for the period of the experiment corresponded to the existing standards. The quantitative and qualitative values of the indicators of the natural forage base were at the level of requirements for intensive rearing of young carp in pond farms. The growth rate of yearlings of the control group until the end of July was slightly higher than the studied group of carps hybrids by the average population values of the body mass index. The average body weight of yearlings in the control pond with the origin of LF * LF was at the moment of the experiment 7.3 ± 0.5 g, for carps of the origin of LF * NMF - 6.8 ± 0.6 g. At the end of September, the value for this indicator was at the level of 25.5 ± 1.6 g and 27.0 ± 2.0 g, respectively, for the control and the group of crossbreeds. The indices of heterosis in yearlings of carps hybrids had positive values accordance with all fi sh and biological indicators relative to their parental forms: by average weight - 106.7%, output - 111.5%, and fi sh production - 118.1%. It was established that a mixture of carps of the NCHK * NMK group have high cold resistance and winter hardiness, which are characteristic of the parent form of the Nivka lowscale carps.
Key words: carp, breeding, Nivkovsky scaly, Nivkovsky scaly, yearlings, heterosis index, fi sh-biological indicators, winter hardiness.
EFFECT OF PROTEASE SUPPLEMENTATION ON THE PERFORMANCE AND DIGESTIBILITY OF BROILERS
Authors: Riaz Muhammad Hasnain , Iqbal Aamir , Khan Samiullah , Tahir Muhammad , Shah Mian Nazir , Memoon Sameeullah , Karkach Peter , Mashkin Yuriy , Bomko Vitalii , Tytariova Olena , Tsekhmistrenko Oksana , Bayram Ismail , Kuzmenko Oksana
Published: August 2020

Premise of the study was to validate the growth promoting eff ect of protease on the performance and to explore its digestion enhancer eff ect in broiler chicks. For this purpose 4 commercial diets were divided into two types (low and high density) and were enriched with protease using a completely randomized design with 4 replicates per diet having 10 chicks each having totaled 200 poultry broiler chickens (day-old). Until 14 days, no eff ects were observed on chicks however at day 14; little variations were observed on weight gain, feed intake and FCR (feed conversion ratio) among the enzyme enriched diets. At day 28, prominent response of protease supplementation in low protein was procured. The chicks gained 10.06 and 8.0 % more weight on CFP1 than CFG1 and CFG2, respectively. Similar response in FCR was observed and was found to be 0.20 and 0.15 points better on CFP1 than on CFG1 and CFG2, respectively. However, CFP2 failed to show protease effi cacy declining the weight gain by 23.01 % while the FCR by 0.49 points as compared with CFP1. This suggested that the nature of feed ingredients in the diets is important for obtaining maximum benefi t of protease supplementation. The overall performance indicated signifi cant response to enzyme supplemented diets. Among the low protein diets CP digestibility remained unchanged but they were diff erent in sparing AME (apparent metabolizable energy) for chicks. The CFP2 spared 98.21 kcal/Kg more AME than CFP1. However, this increased AME values did not help to boost the performance and was attributed to the widening ratio between CP and AME. These results demonstrated that the overall growth response of chicks was improved on low protein diet enriched with protease. It showed higher CP digestibility and AME values than good quality diets. However, the inconsistent results observed within the two types of diets revealed that the nature of diets might have infl uenced the effi cacy of protease.
Key words: Broilers, digestibility, protease, FCR, Feed intake.
The untrue wooland its relationship with productivity indicators of tauric-tailed lambs of the ascanian fi nefl eece breed
Authors: Nezhlukchenko T. , Korbich N. , Nezhlukchenko N. , Dubinsky O.
Published: August 2020

The task of development of thin-wool sheep breeding of Ukraine at the present stage is to increase productivity, improve the quality of wool and reduce the cost of production of sheep. The untrue wool is one of the important qualities of wool, it is established by its connection with the physical and technological properties of wool, the morphological and histological structure of the skin and wool fibers. It is also interrelated with other economic and useful features and is an indicator taken into account in breeding and breeding work.The untrue wool is the subject of many scientific studies. To understand and determine the role of toning is not enough simple definition of the arithmetic mean diameter or aggregate fiber composition of wool. It is necessary, at least, to study the variational series of toning and its homogeneity. The main task of the work was to carry out an analysis of performance indicators of Tauride-type larvae of Ascanian fine-grained breed of different origin and the presence of fibers with different tint of wool and its interconnection with the main breeding grounds. The research was conducted in accordance with the results of the 2018 bonus in the conditions of DPKD "Askaniiske" of the Kherson region. For analysis, the number of lines of 224, 369 and 0058 was allocated. Each analyzed lamb line was divided into three groups based on tint of wool. Animals of 80, 70 and 64 were identified. It has been established that the experimental population of lambs of lines 369 and 0058 is recommended to be used to improve the parameters of live weight and the netting of wool. To improve the output of the blown fiber, you can use analogue lines 0058 and 224, and to increase the length of wool - animals line 369, taking into account the tonicity of wool. At the same time, take into account the correlation coeffi cients obtained when conducting breeding and breeding work with the breed.
Key words: sheep of the Ascanian fine-fleeced breed of the Taurus type, line, selection signs, productivity, untrue wool, live weight, interrelation.
Dependence of physicochemical properties and chemical composition of pig meat on the genotype and pre-slaughter live weight of pigs
Authors: Khramkova O. , Povod N.
Published: August 2020

The article presents the results of analysis of the main chemical composition values (total moisture, dry matter, intramuscular fat, protein and ash contents) and physical properties (pH1, pH16, pH24, water-holding capacity) of the longest back muscle for different genotypes of pigs of different genetic combinations under two weight conditions (100 and 120 kg).It was found that the acidity levels and water-holding capacity of meat of animals from all study groups were within the limits established in the processing industry and fitted into the European category NOR (normal). Autolytic processes in the muscle tissues of high-intensity foreign genotypes are more intensive than those of native genotypes. An increase in the pre-slaughter liveweight from 100 to 120 kg had no effect on the water-holding capacity of meat, but its active acidity (pH) tended to decrease as the animals gained weight. It was found that the meat of pigs from intensive commercial genotypes of foreign selection had higher protein levels and lower fat and ash contents compared with meat of native pig breeds. With an increase in the pre-slaughter weight from 100 to 120 kg the intramuscular fat content in the meat of animals of all genotypes under study increased due to reduction in the protein and moisture levels. It was further found that the use of these genetic combinations led to a decrease in the water-holding capacity and active acidity levels. The meat of pigs produced by combination of native genotypes (UVB-1×UVB-2)×UVB-3 has the best physicochemical properties. Animals produced by mating a combination of sows (Yi ×Li ) and (Li ×Yi ) and boars of synthetic MaxGrow and MaxTer terminal lines had the highest protein levels in their meat both with the 100 kg and 120 kg pre-slaughter weight.
Key words: meat, musculus longissimus dorsi, quality, physicochemical composition, terminal boars, active acidity, water-holding ability.
Increased Incidence in False Positive Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus with 75gm Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: A Clinical Study in Chinese Women
Authors: K.C. Kamana , Zhang Hua , Vaidya Anju
Published: August 2020

Background: Currently, most of the countries across the globe follow the International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria in the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus, which is based on the analysis of Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome study. The International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criterion comes with its benefits and doubts. Although it has been adopted worldwide, diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus with single test and only one positive value has always been debated and is often criticized. This study aimed to assess if the participant with lesser degree of glucose intolerance increases the incidence of false positive diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus with 75gm Oral Glucose Tolerance Test based on International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria.Methods: This prospective, interventional study was conducted in outpatient department of a tertiary hospital of China over a period of 12 months. 48 patients who were diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus in 24-31 weeks of pregnancy by 75mg Oral Glucose Tolerance Test were selected via conventional sampling technique based on lesser degree (less severe, not in need of immediate medical attention) of glucose intolerance. These patients underwent second Oral Glucose Tolerance Test within 2-3 weeks of first test. Patients with normal 2nd Oral Glucose Tolerance Test were observed closely throughout their gestational period and compared with the control group.Results: The mean values of data of control and case group were compared and 37.5% of the patients failed to reproduce the same result with the second test and all of them having normal maternal and fetal outcome without any treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus (t-test, p=0.05).Conclusions: With International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study criteria, more patients with lesser degree of glucose intolerance have been falsely diagnosed and treated as gestational diabetes mellitus.Keywords: Gestational diabetes mellitus; international association of the diabetes and pregnancy study groups; Oral glucose tolerance test .
Spiritual Possession and the Role of Traditional Healers in Nepal
Authors: Acharya Sandeep
Published: August 2020

Spiritual possession is a relatively common phenomenon, and occurs in many cultures around the world. It is a frequent claim in Nepal that illness is caused by spiritual possession, and ill people often seek out traditional healers for treatment. Traditional healers are often not medically trained, and this could have an adverse effect on a person’s health as serious illnesses may not be managed appropriately. However, there is perhaps a role that traditional healers can play in the management of patients.Keywords: Culture; Nepal; spirit possession; traditional medicine.
Järjestöjen sivistystyön byrokratisoituminen ja valtiollistuminen
Authors: Alanen Aulis
Published: August 2020

Vuoden 1975 opintokeskuslaki lisäsi valtion sivistysjärjestöjen toimintaan kohdistuvaa säätelyä ja on aiheuttanut muiden tarkoittamattomien seurausten ohella järjestöjen ajattelu- ja toimintatapojen byrokratisoitumista. Järjestöjen tehtäväkuvan muuttumista koskevaan tutkimukseen perustuvana artikkeli keskittyy vuosiin 1976–1981. Byrokratisoitumiskehitystä analysoidaan weberiläisen byrokratiateorian avulla ja kytkemällä havainnot yhteiskunnalliseen muutostaustaan. Valtiollistuminenkin saa kirjoittajan mukaan merkityssisältönsä valtiobyrokratian tunkeutumisesta valtion tuesta yhä riippuvaisempien järjestöjen sisään.
Keskusvirasto vai kehittämiskeskus?
Authors: Aho Erkki
Published: August 2020

Artikkelissa analysoidaan kouluhallituksen näkökulmasta niitä hallinnon hajautuskomitean esityksiä, jotka koskevat kouluhallitusta. Erityistä huomiota kiinnitetään käytännön hallintotoimiin ja kehittämishankkeisiin, joissa edellytetään valtakunnallista näkemystä.
Pengaruh Perputaran Kas, Perputaran Modal Kerja Dan Rasio Lancar Terhadap Profitabilitas Pada Perusahaan Manufaktur Yang Terdaftar Di Bursa Efek Indonesia Pada Tahun 2015-2017
Authors: Nainggolan Elsa Reina , Saragih Marisa Anindita , Sitompul Yul Franica Astri , Br Sinaga Jholant Bringg Luck Amelia
Published: August 2020

Situasi ekonomi di Indonesia detik ini mampu dianalisis dari banyaknya industri yang tumbuh dan terus berkembang  salah satunya pada industri Manufaktur. Sampel yang diperoleh pada pengamatan ini sebanyak 74 sampel perusahaan dengan hasil observasi selama 3 tahun yakni pada tahun 2015 - 2017, sehingga data observasi diperoleh sebanyak 222 sampel. Penelitian ini menggunakan data sekunder melalui teknik purposive sampling. Metode yang digunakan metode analisis regresi linear berganda. Hasil dari riset ini menyatakan bahwa secara keseluruhan perputaran kas, perputaran modal kerja, dan rasio lancar berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadap profitabilitas. Secara parsial, variabel perputaran kas tidak berpengaruh terhadap profitabilitas. Sedangkan variabel perputaran modal kerja dan rasio lancar berpengaruh dan signifikan terhadap profitabilitas.
Проблеми встановлення змісту іноземного права в судах України
Authors: ГАЛУЩЕНКО ГЕРМАН
Published: August 2020

Досліджуються проблемні питання встановлення у судовому процесі змісту норм іноземного права.
Мета статті – теоретично осмислити та системно розглянути міжнародно-правові та внутрішньодержавні аспекти регулювання встановлення змісту іноземного права. Проаналізувати закріплені в законодавстві України способи встановлення змісту норм іноземного права на предмет наявності переваг і недоліків, окреслити пропозиції їх вдосконалення. Зокрема, автор аналізує положення як міжнародноправових актів (Європейської конвенції про інформацію щодо іноземного законодавства), так і внутрішньодержавних нормативно-правових актів різних країн, які регулюють особливості встановлення змісту іноземного права, що підлягає застосуванню в тій чи іншій справі. Досліджує законодавство різних держав залежно від визначення їхніми правовими системами іноземного права як “права” (Естонії, Німеччини, Румунії, Австрії, Болгарії, Угорщини, Італії, Бельгії, Франції), як “факту” (Сполучене Королівство, Ірландії, Мальти, Люксембургу, Іспанії), а також тих, які дотримуються гібридної природи іноземного права (Латвії, Литви, Нідерландів). Увага акцентується на методах встановлення змісту іноземного права під час здійснення судочинства судами зазначених країн (запити суду до міністра юстиції або міністра закордонних справ, допит свідків, залучення експертів та подання експертних висновків, запит суду іноземним юристам тощо).
Зроблено висновок, що способи встановлення змісту іноземного права залежать від правової природи іноземного права, яка підтримується в конкретній державі. Зазначається, що Україна належить до держав, які дотримуються правової концепції іноземного права. Проаналізувавши вітчизняне законодавство, виокремлено такі способи встановлення змісту іноземного права: звернення із запитом до Міністерства юстиції України щодо надання інформації про матеріальне право тієї чи іншої іноземної держави, яке підлягає застосуванню при вирішенні судового спору, залучення експерта з питань права, надання учасниками спору документів, що підтверджують зміст норм права іноземної держави, на які вони посилаються в обґрунтуванні своїх вимог або заперечень. Також додатково науковці виділяють такі способи: звернення у Торгово-промислову палату, висновки іноземних юристів, допиту ролі свідків спеціалістів з іноземного права з числа юристів і будь-яких експертів, звернення у наукові установи тощо.
Incidence of Burns Caused by Epileptic Crisis in Paraguay
Authors: Soledad Montiel Carolina , Ignacia Troche María , H Marin Gustavo , Lugo Ortellado Gladys , Samaniego Lourdes , Marin Lupe , Mabel Maidana Gladys
Published: August 2020

Objectives: The present study was initiated in order to evaluate the epileptic crisis as causes of serious burns that merit an admission to hospital. Methodology: This is a retrospective descriptive study based on information on admission reports and medical records of patients who met the inclusion criteria to be enrolled in the present investigation. The Institution studied was the Public Hospital Specialized in Burns, in Asuncion City, Republic of Paraguay, South America. Results: From 937 adult patients admitted in the National Centre of Burns in Paraguay during the study period, in only 35 of them their burns were due to epileptic seizures, which represent 3.73% of all admissions. The average age of those affected was 40 ± 16.5 years. 62.86% of the patients were female and 65.71% of those affected came from rural areas where to heat homes and to cook food braziers are used. Education and prevention campaigns to reduce burn injuries in people with seizure disorders may help to minimize the incidence of these cases.
Modeling of Attractive Force by Magnetic Wheel Used for Mobile Robot
Authors: Noh Myounggyu , Kwon Eunsang , Park So Hee , Park Young-Woo
Published: August 2020

Mobile robots that are required to climb inclined ferromagnetic surfaces typically employ magnetic wheels. In order to design magnetic wheels and to properly size the permanent magnet as magnetizing source without the need for finite element analyses, a model that predicts the attractive magnetic force is necessary. In this paper, an analytical force model is derived by estimating the reluctance between the wheel and the surface. A magnetic circuit is constructed, incorporating the leakage flux from the side of the wheel. The model is validated against the results from finite element analyses and measurements from a test rig and a wheel prototype. Within the limitations of the model, it can adequately predict the force and can be used for initial design of magnetic wheels.
Modeling the Connection between Bank Systemic Risk and Balance-Sheet Liquidity Proxies through Random Forest Regressions
Authors: Zeldea Cristina
Published: August 2020

Balance-sheet indicators may reflect, to a great extent, bank fragility. This inherent relationship is the object of theoretical models testing for balance-sheet vulnerabilities. In this sense, we aim to analyze whether systemic risk for a sample of US banks can be explained by a series of balance-sheet variables, considered as proxies for bank liquidity for the 2004:1–2019:1 period. We first compute Marginal Expected Shortfall values for the entities in our sample and then imbed them into a Random Forest regression setup. Although we discover that feature importance is rather bank-specific, we notice that cash and available-for-sale securities are the most relevant factors in explaining the dynamics of systemic risk. Our findings emphasize the need for heightened prudential regulation of bank liquidity, particularly in what concerns cash and immediate liquidity instrument weights. Moreover, systemic risk could be consistently tamed by consolidating bank emergency liquidity provision schemes.
Optimization of Indole-3-Acetic Acid Concentration in a Nutrient Solution for Increasing Bioactive Compound Accumulation and Production of Agastache rugosa in a Plant Factory
Authors: Lam Vu Phong , Lee Mun Haeng , Park Jong Seok
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to determine the optimal indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) concentration in a nutrient solution to increase the bioactive compounds while enhancing the plant growth of A. rugosa grown hydroponically. Twenty-eight-day-old plants were transplanted in a plant factory for 32 days. The plants were subjected to various IAA concentrations (10−11, 10−9, 10−7, and 10−5 M) from 8 days after transplanting, and the control treatment (without IAA). Shoot and root fresh weights were effectively improved under 10−7 and 10−9 IAA treatments. Leaf gas exchange parameters were increased under 10−7 and 10−9 IAA treatments. Four of the IAA treatments, except 10−11 IAA treatment, significantly increased the rosmarinic acid (RA) concentration, as well as the tilianin concentration was significantly increased at all IAA treatments, compared with that of the control. Especially, the tilianin concentration of the 10−11 IAA treatment was significantly (1.8 times) higher than that of the control. The IAA treatments at 10−5 and 10−7 significantly raised the acacetin concentrations (1.6- and 1.7-times, respectively) compared to those of the control. These results suggested that 10−7 concentration of IAA in a nutrient solution was effective for enhancing plant growth and increasing bioactive compounds in A. rugosa, which offers an effective strategy for increasing phytochemical production in a plant factory.
Effect of Different Rearing during the Milk-Feeding Period on Growth of Dairy Calves
Authors: Broucek Jan , Uhrincat Michal , Kisac Peter , Hanus Anton
Published: August 2020

The objective was to determine the impact of calves’ rearing, gender, and the sire lineage on the growth and health. One hundred-and-five Holstein calves were assigned to one of three treatments: single suckling (SS), multiple suckling (MS), and artificially rearing in hutches (H). All calves received a comparable amount of milk/milk replacer (MR) across treatments. All calves were weaned at the 84th day. After weaning, all calves were separated by sex in age-balanced groups. At weaning, the highest body weight was in MS and the lowest in H (SS 94.97 kg, MS 109.85 kg, H 80.80 kg, p < 0.001). The average gains from the birth to weaning were 0.67 kg (SS), 0.81 kg (MS), 0.48 kg (H), (p < 0.001). A difference (p < 0.01) was found for the period from birth to 180th day of life (SS 0.75 kg, MS 0.82 kg, H 0.67 kg). We did not notice a gender differences (p > 0.05). The Sire 1 progeny showed a lower body weight at 180 days (p < 0.01) and 360 days (p < 0.05). The results indicate that the method used to rear calves and sire lines had a significant impact on their later performance.
Plant Defense Chemicals against Insect Pests
Authors: Yactayo-Chang Jessica P. , Tang Hoang V. , Mendoza Jorrel , Christensen Shawn A. , Block Anna K.
Published: August 2020

Insect pests cause significant global agricultural damage and lead to major financial and environmental costs. Crops contain intrinsic defenses to protect themselves from such pests, including a wide array of specialized secondary metabolite-based defense chemicals. These chemicals can be induced upon attack (phytoalexins) or are constitutive (phytoanticipins), and can have a direct impact on the pests or be used indirectly to attract their natural enemies. They form part of a global arms race between the crops and their insect pests, with the insects developing methods of suppression, avoidance, detoxification, or even capture of their hosts defensive chemicals. Harnessing and optimizing the chemical defense capabilities of crops has the potential to aid in the continuing struggle to enhance or improve agricultural pest management. Such strategies include breeding for the restoration of defense chemicals from ancestral varieties, or cross-species transfer of defense metabolite production.
Ascophyllum nodosum Application and Pre-Sowing Stimulation with Low-Frequency Magnetic Field as Factors Influencing Oat Grains (Avena sativa L.) Composition
Authors: Drygaś Barbara , Depciuch Joanna , Zaguła Grzegorz , Puchalski Czesław
Published: August 2020

In this study, we tested the influence of two experimental factors on the composition of oat grain Avena sativa under the conditions of a three-year field study. The first factor (factor A) consisted of an Ascophyllum nodosum application, an organism classified in the Chromista kingdom, class Phaeophyceae, order Fucales; the second factor was the pre-sowing stimulation of seeds with a low-frequency magnetic field with known parameters. The basic organic components and mineral composition of the grain were tested. It was determined, among other things, that fertilization with algae leads to reduced ash content in oat grain, increased content of sodium, reduced calcium and iron content, and increased content of starch components (amyloses and amylopectins). The application of pre-sowing seed stimulation resulted in increased copper content in the progeny. No significant interactions could be observed between the factors in forming the chemical composition of oat grain.
Soil Microbial Community Changes in a Field Treatment with Chlorotoluron, Flufenacet and Diflufenican and Two Organic Amendments
Authors: Carpio María José , García-Delgado Carlos , Marín-Benito Jesús María , Sánchez-Martín María Jesús , Rodríguez-Cruz María Sonia
Published: August 2020

The soil microbial activity, biomass and structure were evaluated in an unamended (S) and organically amended soil treated with two commercial formulations of the herbicides chlorotoluron (Erturon®) and flufenacet plus diflufenican (Herold®) under field conditions. Soils were amended with spent mushroom substrate (SMS) or green compost (GC). Soil microbial dehydrogenase activity (DHA), biomass and structure determined by the phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) profiles were recorded at 0, 45, 145, 229 and 339 days after herbicide treatment. The soil DHA values steadily decreased over time in the unamended soil treated with the herbicides, while microbial activity was constant in the amended soils. The amended soils recorded higher values of concentrations of PLFAs. Total soil microbial biomass decreased over time regardless of the organic amendment or the herbicide. Herbicide application sharply decreased the microbial population, with a significant modification of the microbial structure in the unamended soil. In contrast, no significant differences in microbial biomass and structure were detected in S + SMS and S + GC, untreated or treated with herbicides. The application of SMS and GC led to a significant shift in the soil microbial community regardless of the herbicides. The use of SMS and GC as organic amendments had a certain buffer effect on soil DHA and microbial biomass and structure after herbicide application due to the higher adsorption capacity of herbicides by the amended soils.
Identification of QTLs Controlling Resistance/Tolerance to Striga hermonthica in an Extra-Early Maturing Yellow Maize Population
Authors: Badu-Apraku Baffour , Adewale Samuel , Paterne Agre , Gedil Melaku , Asiedu Robert
Published: August 2020

Striga hermonthica parasitism is a major constraint to maize production in sub-Saharan Africa with yield losses reaching 100% under severe infestation. The application of marker-assisted selection is highly promising for accelerating breeding for Striga resistance/tolerance in maize but requires the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) linked to Striga resistance/tolerance traits. In the present study, 194 F2:3 families of TZEEI 79 × TZdEEI 11 were screened at two Striga-endemic locations in Nigeria, to identify QTLs associated with S. hermonthica resistance/tolerance and underlying putative candidate genes. A genetic map was constructed using 1139 filtered DArTseq markers distributed across the 10 maize chromosomes, covering 2016 cM, with mean genetic distance of 1.70 cM. Twelve minor and major QTLs were identified for four Striga resistance/tolerance adaptive traits, explaining 19.4%, 34.9%, 14.2% and 3.2% of observed phenotypic variation for grain yield, ears per plant, Striga damage and emerged Striga plants, respectively. The QTLs were found to be linked to candidate genes which may be associated with plant defense mechanisms in S. hermonthica infested environments. The results of this study provide insights into the genetic architecture of S. hermonthica resistance/tolerance indicator traits which could be employed for marker-assisted selection to accelerate efficient transfer host plant resistance genes to susceptible genotypes.
Adaptation to Water and Salt Stresses of Solanum pimpinellifolium and Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme
Authors: Martínez-Cuenca Mary-Rus , Pereira-Dias Leandro , Soler Salvador , López-Serrano Lidia , Alonso David , Calatayud Ángeles , Díez María José
Published: August 2020

Solanum pimpinellifolium and Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme represent a valuable tool for tomato breeding, particularly for tolerance to abiotic stresses. Water stress and salinity are major constraints to tomato’s cultivation, and for which limited genetic variability has been reported within the cultivated species. We evaluated four accessions of S. pimpinellifolium and four of S. l. var. cerasiforme for their adaptation to water deficit and salinity. The CO2 assimilation rate, stomatal conductance, substomatal CO2 concentration, transpiration rate, and leaf chlorophyll concentration were evaluated, as well as morphological and agronomic traits. The accessions showed a remarkable inter- and intra-species response variability to both stresses. Two S. pimpinellifolium accessions and one S. l. var. cerasiforme showed unaltered physiological parameters, thus indicating a good adaptation to water deficit. Two S. l. var. cerasiforme accessions showed an interesting performance under salt stress, one of which showing also good adaptation to water stress. In general, both stresses showed a negative impact on leaf size and fruit fresh weight, especially in the big-sized fruits. However, flowering, fruit setting and earliness remained unaltered or even improved when compared to control conditions. Stressed plants yielded fruits with higher ° Brix. Response to stresses seemed to be linked to origin environmental conditions, notwithstanding, variability was observed among accessions of the same region.
Meiotic Status Does Not Affect the Vitrification Effectiveness of Domestic Cat Oocytes
Authors: Sowińska Natalia , Zahmel Jennifer , Niżański Wojciech , Hribal Romy , Fernandez-Gonzalez Lorena , Jewgenow Katarina
Published: August 2020

Cryopreservation is important for animal fertility and biodiversity. Unfortunately, cryopreservation of feline oocytes is still an experimental technique. The aims of this study were to analyze the potential toxicity of the cryoprotectants in the vitrification solution (VS) on cat oocytes and to investigate whether the meiotic status of oocytes influences their developmental potential after vitrification. Two experiments were conducted with the VS composed of 20% ethylene glycol, 20% dimethyl sulfoxide, 20% fetal calf serum, 1.5 M trehalose, and 10% Ficoll PM-70: (1) toxicity assessment of the VS on immature cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs), and subsequently in vitro maturation (IVM) and in vitro fertilization; (2) assessment of the influence of the meiotic status on vitrification effectiveness, where immature and in vitro matured COCs were vitrified on the Cryotop. After rewarming, vitrified oocytes were subjected to IVM (immature) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with fresh epididymal sperm. The toxicity test revealed no negative effect of oocyte exposure to the applied VS on their developmental potential (p > 0.05). Although the vitrification procedure itself significantly reduced the meiotic competence of oocytes, their meiotic status before vitrification (immature vs. in vitro matured) did not influence fertilization and morula rates. The only parameter affected by vitrification was the rate of oocytes suitable for ICSI, which was significantly lower for immature oocytes. Regardless of the meiotic status of vitrified oocytes, morphologically normal morulae were obtained. Moreover, the two meiotic stages examined are suitable for vitrification, with mature oocytes being a better choice when a well-equipped laboratory is available.
Compositional and Functional Characteristics of Swine Slurry Microbes through 16S rRNA Metagenomic Sequencing Approach
Authors: Kumar Himansu , Jang Yu , Kim Kwangmin , Park Junhyung , Jung Min , Park Jong-Eun
Published: August 2020

Traditionally slurry is used as source of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium in bio fertilizers to improve crop production. However, poorly managed slurry causes a hazardous effect to the environment by producing greenhouse gases, causing the eutrophication of water bodies, and polluting the groundwater. It has been largely reported that the microbial presence in slurry causing a diverse effect on its storage and disposal system. However, the diversity of bacterial populations in pig slurries remains largely unexplored. Here we report the bacterial diversity present in the slurry from slurry pits, and the effect of storage time on bacterial population. We collected 42 samples from three different pig slurry pits, as three replicates from each one until the 14th week. We used the 16S rRNA, Quantitative Insights Into Microbial Ecology (QIIME) and Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt) protocols for the metagenomic downstream analysis. Taxonomic annotation using the Greengenes metagenomic database indicated that on an average 76.2% Firmicutes, 14.4% Bacteroidetes, 4.9% Proteobacteria, etc. microbial populations were present. Comparative microbial analysis showed that the population of Firmicutes decreased from the first to the 14th week, whereas the population of Bacteroidetes increased from the first to the 14th week. Through principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), (linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe), and Pearson’s correlation analysis, we found microbial biomarkers according to the storage time point. All bacterial populations were well clustered according to the early, middle, and last weeks of storage. LEfSe showed that Actinobacteria, Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, and Bacteroidia are dominantly present in first, seventh, ninth, and 14th week, respectively. Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae are ubiquitous gastrointestinal non-pathogenic bacteria. KEGG pathways, such as membrane transport, carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, genetic replication and repair, were significant among all samples. Such a KEGG pathway may indicate the association between the host organism’s metabolic activity and the microbes present in the gastro intestinal tract (GIT).
Quantification of Defensive Proteins in Skin Mucus of Atlantic salmon Using Minimally Invasive Sampling and High-Sensitivity ELISA
Authors: Tartor Haitham , Luis Monjane Adérito , Grove Søren
Published: August 2020

Protocols used to collect fish skin mucus may inadvertently compromise the sampled fish or the resulting sample. Here, we used three methods (wiping, scraping, and absorption) to collect skin mucus from Atlantic salmon and compared their invasiveness on fish skin epithelium. We found that the absorption method was the least invasive. We also compared the abundance of antigen-specific immunoglobulin M subtype A antibodies (IgM-A Ab) and complement component 5 (C5) in mucus samples collected from vaccinated fish by the three methods. An enzyme-cascade-amplification strategy colorimetric immune assay was optimized and used to analyze IgM-A, and ELISA was used to analyze C5. The abundance of antigen-specific IgM-A in skin mucus was comparable between the three methods, but C5 was significantly lower in absorbed mucus in comparison to in the wiped or scraped mucus samples. Absorbed skin mucus samples collected from various body regions of salmon, levels of C5 were comparable, while specific IgM-A amounts varied between the regions. By comparing three mucus-absorbing materials (medical wipe, gauze, and cotton) for their ability to absorb and release IgM-A and C5, medical wipes proved to be ideal for IgM-A analysis, whereas gauze was the best for C5 analysis.
Effects of Different Dietary Vegetable Lipid Sources on Health Status in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): Haematological Indices, Immune Response Parameters and Plasma Proteome
Authors: Nakharuthai Chatsirin , Rodrigues Pedro M. , Schrama Denise , Kumkhong Suksan , Boonanuntanasarn Surintorn
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to investigate the effects of DLs, including palm oil (PO; an SFAs), linseed oil (LO; n-3 PUFAs) and soybean oil (SBO; n-6 PUFAs) on the health status of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) during adulthood. Three experimental diets incorporating PO, LO or SBO were fed to adult Nile tilapia for a period of 90 days, and haematological and innate immune parameters were evaluated. Proteome analysis was also conducted to evaluate the effects of DLs on plasma proteins. The tested DLs had no significant effects on red blood cell (RBC) count, haematocrit, haemoglobin, and total immunoglobulin and lysozyme activity. Dietary LO led to increased alternative complement 50 activity (ACH50), and proteome analysis revealed that PO and SBO enhanced A2ML, suggesting that different DLs promote immune system via different processes. Dietary LO or SBO increased the expression of several proteins involved in coagulation activity such as KNG1, HRG and FGG. Increased HPX in fish fed with PO suggests that SFAs are utilised in heme lipid-oxidation. Overall, DLs with distinct fatty acids (FAs) affect several parameters corresponding to health status in Nile tilapia, and dietary LO and SBO seemed to strengthen health in this species.
Evaluation of Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Properties of a Fluorinated Diamond-Like Carbon Coating for the Development of Antibacterial Medical Implants
Authors: Yonezawa Katsutaka , Kawaguchi Masahito , Kaneuji Ayumi , Ichiseki Toru , Iinuma Yoshitsugu , Kawamura Kae , Shintani Kazuhiro , Oda Shinobu , Taki Makoto , Kawahara Norio
Published: August 2020

Peri-implant infection is a serious complication in surgical procedures involving implants. We conducted an in vitro study to determine whether the use of a fluorinated diamond-like carbon (F-DLC) coating on a titanium alloy surface can prevent peri-implant infection. After applying the F-DLC, we evaluated its antibacterial and cytotoxic properties. The coating groups, containing controlled fluorine concentrations of 5.44%, 17.43%, 24.09%, and 30%, were examined for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli according to ISO 22196 for the measurement of antibacterial activity on plastics and other nonporous surfaces. Biological toxicity was evaluated using Chinese hamster V79 cells according to ISO 10993-5 for the biological evaluation of medical devices. In the control group, populations of S. aureus and E. coli substantially increased from 2.4 × 104 to (1.45 ± 1.11) × 106 colony-forming units (CFUs) and from 2.54 × 104 to (4.04 ± 0.44) × 106 CFUs, respectively. However, no bacteria colonies were detected in any F-DLC group with a fluorine concentration of ≥ 17.43%. In the biological toxicity study, an F-DLC coating with a fluorine concentration of 30% showed a colony formation rate of 105.8 ± 24.1%, which did not differ significantly from the colony formation rate of 107.5 ± 31.1% in the nontoxic control group. An F-DLC coating on titanium alloy discs showed excellent in vitro antibacterial activity with no biological toxicity.
Antibiotic Use in Low and Middle-Income Countries and the Challenges of Antimicrobial Resistance in Surgery
Authors: Sartelli Massimo , C. Hardcastle Timothy , Catena Fausto , Chichom-Mefire Alain , Coccolini Federico , Dhingra Sameer , Haque Mainul , Hodonou Adrien , Iskandar Katia , Labricciosa Francesco M. , Marmorale Cristina , Sall Ibrahima , Pagani Leonardo
Published: August 2020

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a phenomenon resulting from the natural evolution of microbes. Nonetheless, human activities accelerate the pace at which microorganisms develop and spread resistance. AMR is a complex and multidimensional problem, threatening not only human and animal health, but also regional, national, and global security, and the economy. Inappropriate use of antibiotics, and poor infection prevention and control strategies are contributing to the emergence and dissemination of AMR. All healthcare providers play an important role in preventing the occurrence and spread of AMR. The organization of healthcare systems, availability of diagnostic testing and appropriate antibiotics, infection prevention and control practices, along with prescribing practices (such as over-the-counter availability of antibiotics) differs markedly between high-income countries and low and middle-income countries (LMICs). These differences may affect the implementation of antibiotic prescribing practices in these settings. The strategy to reduce the global burden of AMR includes, among other aspects, an in-depth modification of the use of existing and future antibiotics in all aspects of medical practice. The Global Alliance for Infections in Surgery has instituted an interdisciplinary working group including healthcare professionals from different countries with different backgrounds to assess the need for implementing education and increasing awareness about correct antibiotic prescribing practices across the surgical pathways. This article discusses aspects specific to LMICs, where pre-existing factors make surgeons’ compliance with best practices even more important.
Antimicrobial Stewardship in General Practice: A Scoping Review of the Component Parts
Authors: Hawes Lesley , Buising Kirsty , Mazza Danielle
Published: August 2020

There is no published health-system-wide framework to guide antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in general practice. The aim of this scoping review was to identify the component parts necessary to inform a framework to guide AMS in general practice. Six databases and nine websites were searched. The sixteen papers included were those that reported on AMS in general practice in a country where antibiotics were available by prescription from a registered provider. Six multidimensional components were identified: 1. Governance, including a national action plan with accountability, prescriber accreditation, and practice level policies. 2. Education of general practitioners (GPs) and the public about AMS and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). 3. Consultation support, including decision support with patient information resources and prescribing guidelines. 4. Pharmacist and nurse involvement. 5. Monitoring of antibiotic prescribing and AMR with feedback to GPs. 6. Research into gaps in AMS and AMR evidence with translation into practice. This framework for AMS in general practice identifies health-system-wide components to support GPs to improve the quality of antibiotic prescribing. It may assist in the development and evaluation of AMS interventions in general practice. It also provides a guide to components for inclusion in reports on AMS interventions.
Characterizing Antimicrobial Resistance in Chicken Pathogens: A Step towards Improved Antimicrobial Stewardship in Poultry Production in Vietnam
Authors: Yen Nguyen Thi Phuong , Nhung Nguyen Thi , Van Nguyen Thi Bich , Cuong Nguyen Van , Kiet Bach Tuan , Phu Doan Hoang , Hien Vo Be , Campbell James , Chansiripornchai Niwat , E. Thwaites Guy , Carrique-Mas Juan J.
Published: August 2020

In the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, farmers use large quantities of antimicrobials to raise small-scale chicken flocks, often including active ingredients regarded of “critical importance’” by the World Health Organization. Due to limitations in laboratory capacity, the choice of antimicrobials normally does not follow any empirical criteria of effectiveness. The aim of this study was to highlight non-critically important antimicrobials against which chicken pathogens are likely to be susceptible as a basis for treatment guidelines. Microtiter broth dilution method was performed to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 12 commonly used antimicrobials for 58 isolates, including Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale (ORT) (n = 22), Gallibacterium anatis (n = 19), and Avibacterium endocarditidis (n = 17). Unfortunately, internationally accepted breakpoints for resistance in these organisms do not exist. We drew tentative epidemiological cut-offs (TECOFFs) for those antimicrobial-pathogen combinations where MIC distributions suggested the presence of a distinct non-wild-type population. Based on the observed results, doxycycline would be the drug of choice for A.endocarditidis (11.8% presumptive non-wild type) and G. anatis infections (5.3% presumptive non-wild type). A total of 13.6% ORT isolates were non-wild type with regards to oxytetracycline, making it the drug of choice against this pathogen. This study illustrates the challenges in interpreting susceptibility testing results and the need to establish internationally accepted breakpoints for veterinary pathogens.
Epigallocatechin Gallate Slows Retinal Degeneration, Reduces Oxidative Damage, and Modifies Circadian Rhythms in P23H Rats
Authors: Perdices Lorena , Fuentes-Broto Lorena , Segura Francisco , Cuenca Nicolás , Orduna-Hospital Elvira , Pinilla Isabel
Published: August 2020

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) includes a group of genetic disorders that involve the loss of visual function due to mutations mainly in photoreceptors but also in other retinal cells. Apoptosis, retinal disorganization, and inflammation are common in the progression of the disease. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has been proved as beneficial in different eye diseases. Pigmented heterozygous P23H rat was used as an animal model of RP. Visual function was assessed by optomotor and electroretinogram (ERG) and circadian rhythms were evaluated by telemetry. Hepatic oxidative damage and antioxidant defenses were assessed using biochemical tests. The visual function of the EGCG P23H group was preserved, with a deterioration in the activity period and lower values in the interdaily stability parameter. Control rats treated with EGCG were less active than the sham group. EGCG increased antioxidant levels in P23H rats but reduced total hepatic antioxidant capacity by almost 42% in control rats compared to the sham group. We conclude that treatment with EGCG improves visual function and antioxidant status in P23H rats but diminishes antioxidant defenses in wild-type control animals, and slightly worsens activity circadian rhythms. Further studies are necessary to clarify the beneficial effects in disease conditions and in healthy organisms.