bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementary feeding of cattle-yak in the cold season alters rumen microbes, volatile fatty acids, and expression of SGLT1 in the rumen epithelium
Authors: Sha Yuzhu , Hu Jiang , Shi Bingang , Dingkao Renqing , Wang Jiqing , Li Shaobin , Zhang Wei , Luo Yuzhu , Liu Xiu
Published: March 2021

Cattle-yak, a hybrid offspring of yak (Bos grunniens) and cattle (Bos taurus), inhabit the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau at an altitude of more than 3,000 m and obtain nutrients predominantly through grazing on natural pastures. Severe shortages of pasture in the cold season leads to reductions in the weight and disease resistance of grazing cattle-yak, which then affects their production performance. This study aimed to investigate the effect of supplementary feeding during the cold season on the rumen microbial community of cattle-yak. Six cattle-yak (bulls) were randomly divided into two groups—“grazing + supplementary feeding” (G+S) (n = 3) and grazing (G) (n = 3)—and rumen microbial community structure (based on 16S rRNA sequencing), volatile fatty acids (VFAs), and ruminal epithelial sodium ion-dependent glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1) expression were assessed. There were significant differences in the flora of the two groups at various taxonomic classification levels. For example, Bacteroidetes, Rikenellaceae, and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group were significantly higher in the G+S group than in the G group (P < 0.05), while Firmicutes and Christensenellaceae_R-7_group were significantly lower in the G+S group than in the G group (P < 0.05). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG) analyses revealed that functions related to carbohydrate metabolism and energy production were significantly enriched in the G+S group (P < 0.05). In addition, the concentration of total VFAs, along with concentrations of acetate, propionate, and butyrate, were significantly higher in the G+S group than in the G group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, SGLT1 expression in ruminal epithelial tissue was significantly lower in the G+S group (P < 0.01). Supplementary feeding of cattle-yak after grazing in the cold season altered the microbial community structure and VFA contents in the rumen of the animals, and decreased ruminal epithelial SGLT1 expression. This indicated that supplementary feeding after grazing aids rumen function, improves adaptability of cattle-yak to the harsh environment of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and enhances ability of the animals to overwinter.
Halal Food Safety: PCR Based Detection of Porcine DNA in Imported Chocolate
Authors: Akter Khaleda , Khandaker Mahfuza , Aziz Md. Abdul , Mahmud Shahriar , Morshed Md. Neaz , Uddin G. M. Sala
Published: March 2021

Halal food and food products consumption is a major part of living in Muslim community. Pork meat or meat items are not considered halal in Muslim countries and consumers. Ensuring pork-free food items is a challenge for the food industry and exporters to Muslim nations. This study aims to detect porcine DNA in imported chocolate products in Bangladesh for halal safety assurance. The imported chocolate samples were collected from various multi shops in Dhaka. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method is used in our research to detect the porcine DNA. Two primer sets are used for the detection of porcine mitochondrial cyt-b (cytochrome-b) gene fragments in chocolate samples. To visualize the amplified DNA, agarose gel (1%) was used. After electrophoresis, DNA band in agarose gel indicated that the gene fragments are amplified properly. In our research, out of 42 chocolate samples, only 2 samples were found positive. The chocolate samples were branded as Wild Berry Flavor Chocolate and Cadbury Milk Tray Chocolate. In comparison with the positive pork sample, these two samples also containing the 165bp and 359bp fragment of the porcine cytochrome b gene. We reported that chocolate products contain the pork contamination were not labeled as halal. While other samples that did not have any halal logo originated from outside Bangladesh and imported also showed negative result. The present study established the DNA-based porcine detection system based on mitochondrial cyt-b that is viable in highly processed products. It can be used in the halal certification process to determine the pork items presence in food and halal safety. Our research also reported that imported chocolates should halal certify before release into the market.
Participatory GIS Mode of Sustainable Surface and Groundwater Management Practices Involving NGOs in India
Authors: Krishnan L. Murali , Kumarasamy N. , Sivabalan K. C. , Oliyarasan S. , Ravikumar R. , Barua Sukanaya , Mary M. V. KarunaJeba , Ragavendra K. , Kannan K.
Published: March 2021

Groundwater resources plays important role in agro-biodiversity and environmental conservation perspectives. Surface and groundwater have played a significant role in the agrarian economics in the developing economics particularly in India. At the same time, the tropical and sub-tropical India is the largest groundwater user in the world through unregulated construction and utilization of millions of private wells in the last five decades exploited groundwater availability and sustainable regeneration issues. Hence, in order to improve the surface and groundwater conservation, regeneration, management and protection for sustainable utilization of Groundwater requires a participatory and coordinated action. Nationwide, many national and regional Non Government Organisations (NGOs) are functioning in the line of effective surface and ground water management the community. The recent Geographical Information Systems (GIS) based technologies also supports for drought mitigation and climate change adaptation. This study highlights the important NGOs led sustainable Groundwater management practices under various local hydro geological settings and agro economic realities for up scaling the community driven sustainable Groundwater management.
Effect of IBA and Rooting Media on Hardwood Cuttings of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) CV. Bhagwa
Authors: Tanwar Dinesh Raj , Bairwa H. L. , Lakhawat S. S. , Mahawer L. N. , Jat Raj kumar , Choudhary Ramesh Chand
Published: March 2021

An experiment was carried out during at Horticulture Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur, Rajasthan during 2018 (February to May) to work out the most suitable growing media and Indole-3 Butyric Acid concentration for producing the best quality cutting of Pomegranate. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with a total of sixteen treatments replicated thrice. Result showed that the treatment combination (T13) comprising Coco peat : Perlite : Vermiculite with 2000 ppm IBA recorded highest values in terms of length of cutting after survival (81.08 cm), percentage of rooted cuttings (97.78%), survival of rooted cuttings (93.78%), number of roots per cutting (41.50), length of longest roots per cutting (32.03 cm), fresh weight of root (2.25 g), sprouts per cutting (2.59), shoots per cutting (9.87), length of shoots per cutting  (32.33 cm), leaves per rooted cuttings (145.40), leaves per longest shoot (29.99), fresh weight of shoot (16.67 g), root to shoot ratio (0.15) and survival percentage after shifting in poly bags (82.22).
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer Levels on the Incidence of Insect Pests in Four Rice Cultivars
Authors: Paramasiva I. , Vineetha U. , Sreelakshmi Ch. , Harathi P. N.
Published: March 2021

Aim: To determine the effect of local rice cultivars and inorganic nitrogen fertilizer on the incidence of stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker); leaffolder, Cnephalocrocis medinalis (Guenee); and gall midge, Orseolia oryzae (Wood Mason) and on grain yield of rice.

Study Design: A field experiment for two consecutive years was carried out in a split-plot arrangement in randomized block design with three replications.

Place and duration of the study: Department of Entomology, Agricultural Research Station, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India during Kharif, 2013 and 2014.

Methodology: The rice cultivars (NLR 20104, NLR 20106, NLR 3135 and NLR 33892) were attributed to experimental main plots and nitrogen levels (40, 80, 120, 160 and 200 kg ha-1) to the sub plots. Observations on incidence of stem borer, gall midge and leaf folder was recorded in randomly selected 10 hills per subplot in replication and percent incidence was calculated.

Results: The pest incidence for the treatments with high N rate as 160 and 200 kg/ha was higher (31.43 & 43.86% stem borer, 9.23 & 13.59% leaffolder and 2.75 & 3.00% gall midge, respectively) than that for lower N rate i.e. 40 and 80 kg ha-1 (19.24 & 20.04% stem borer, 7.37 & 7.95% leaffolder and 1.42 & 1.93% gall midge, respectively). Different rice cultivars significantly influenced the leaffolder incidence but not the stem borer and gall midge incidence. The Highest leaffolder incidence (13.44%) was noticed in NLR 20104 cultivar which was followed by NLR 3135 cultivar with 9.64% leaffolder incidence. Gall midge and leaffolder incidence was not significantly influenced by the combined effect of rice cultivar and nitrogen levels; in contrast, interaction effect has a significant influence on stem borer incidence. Significantly lowest stem borer incidence (18.21%) was noticed with NLR 3135 rice cultivar treated with 40 N ha-1, which was statistically on par with the NLR 20106 rice cultivar treated with 40 kg N ha-1 (18.23%) and NLR 20104 rice cultivar treated with 40 kg N ha-1 (19.76%). Among the different cultivarscultivar, NLR 33892 cultivarhad produced significantly highest grain yield (5955 kg ha-1) may be for having higher physiological indices. The highest/optimum grain yield (5726 kg ha-1) produced by plots that received 120 kg N ha-1. Further increase in nitrogen level beyond 120 kg ha-1 did not significantly improve the grain yield. Optimal N rate was revealed to be 120 kg ha-1 for four rice cultivars for reducing the stem borer/leaffolder/gall midge incidence so as to minimize the cost of inputs for pest control measures and for achieving high grain yield.

Conclusions: The incremental doses of nitrogen fertilizer significantly enhanced stem borer, leaffolder and gall midge infestation on rice, which further affects the grain yields.
On a Question of Prime Labeling of Graphs
Authors: Athapattu A. M. C. U. M. , Ranasinghe P. G. R. S.
Published: March 2021

In the field of graph theory, the complete graph  of  vertices is a simple undirected graph such that every pair of distinct vertices is connected by a unique edge. In the present work, we introduce planar subgraph  of  with maximal number of edges . Generally,  does not admit prime labeling. We present an algorithm to obtain prime-labeled subgraphs of  . We conclude the paper by stating two conjectures based on labeling of . In particular, the planar subgraph admits anti-magic labeling but does not admit edge magic total labeling.
RP-HPLC Method Development and Validation of Tapentadol Hydrochloride in Bulk and Pharmaceutical Formulations
Authors: Sangeetha G. , Manickam M. Swamivel , Kumar P. Sanil
Published: March 2021

Objective: Tapentadol Hydrochloride was approved (November 2008) by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the relief of moderate to severe pain. It is an opioid analgesic, acts by dual mechanism as opioid receptor agonist and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. The present research work was aimed to develop an accurate, precise, and rapid RP-HPLC method and subsequently validates the method according to the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines for the determination of Tapentadol Hydrochloride.

Methods: Tapentadol Hydrochloride was analyzed by using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Better separation of the drug was achieved by using a Symmetry C18 column (150x4.6mm, 3.5μm) with the mobile phase consisted of a mixture of Orthophosphoric acid (0.1% of Orthophosphoric acid in HPLC water) and acetonitrile in the ratio of 30:70 v/v at a flow rate of 1 ml/min, and the detection was at the wavelength of 219nm using a PDA detector.

Results: The retention time of Tapentadol Hydrochloride was found to be 3.747 ± 0.127 min. The method was found to be linear in the range of 10-200 ug/ml with a correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.9991. The LOD and LOQ of the method were calculated to be 0.1 and 1μg/ml respectively. The method precision and system precision was estimated and the results were calculated as % RSD values, which were found to be within the limits. Recovery of Tapentadol Hydrochloride was found to be 100.1%, which confirms the efficiency of the method.

Conclusion: The developed RP-HPLC method was validated using standard ICH guidelines. The developed method can be used for the analysis of both tapentadol hydrochloride bulk and formulations.
Collision between Two Pandemics: Obesity and COVID-19 Viral Infection
Authors: Alrahimi Jehan Saad
Published: March 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The principal risk factor for the development of serious forms of COVID-19 was found to be the precarious metabolic health. There are several mechanisms that are implicated in the seriousness of COVID-19 ranging from attenuation of immune system function to chronic inflammation. It is important to keep in mind that obesity is a complex disease when discussing the relation between obesity and the severity of COVID-19. An increasing body of proof links obesity to COVID-19. Obesity has an obvious role in the high incidence, symptoms severity and mortality rates of viral infections seen in obese patients. Adipose tissue shows a high expression of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the receptor for entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells, so obese population exhibit higher vulnerability to COVID-19. The primary immune response is offered mainly by type-I interferon (IFN-I) that is suppressed in COVID-19. The pro-inflammatory state associated with obesity produces imbalance of the inflammatory response to COVID-19, as the cytokine storm found in subjects with serious disease form. Obesity is considered as chronic inflammation of low degree, so it shows a capacity for pathogenic immune amplification. In this review, the effect of obesity on the immune system is described. The authors described the dysfunctional immune responses caused by obesity that lead to organ injury in COVID-19 infection and impair the ability of patient to combat the virus. Further research is required to assess the impact of obesity control, immunonutrition and physical exercise in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Implications of COVID–19 Outbreak on the Construction and Property Development Sector in the South-East Nigeria
Authors: Ikechukwu Uche Felix , Odimegwu Chinwe Ngozi
Published: March 2021

Pandemic like Covid-19 usually affects the productivity of man, let alone when there is a consequent total lock-down effect in the society. Construction and property development sector among others therefore is bound to suffer enormously since it involves the services of variety of labour force. The study therefore explores the implication and consequences of the Covid-19 outbreak on the construction and property development sector in the south eastern region of Nigeria. Data were collected electronically using field survey method of research design from the sampled respondents of building professionals in the area. Tau-b correlation method was adopted in the statistical analyses to determine the most commonly observed Covid-19 measures, most common vulnerable factors leading to spread and contraction of the pandemic in the study. Findings reveal that majority of the establishment in the area shutdown their operations according to the directive of the government; while about the three quarter of these establishments who were in active operations are observed as public owned corporations or projects. It is also discovered that hand washing, wearing of face mask and social distancing were mostly complied with. On the other hand, economic hardship, inflation, and difficulty in accessibility to fund noticeably affect the flow and progress of work projects. Despite the considerable compliance with the preventive measures, there is no significant relationship between conformity to social distancing and shut-down policy, and the volume of construction works in progress during the shut-down in the study area. In conclusion therefore, it is recommended that shut-down of economic activities should not be total but, in part and alternate form among the various sections of the economic activities within the society. Attention to the operations of the private construction and property development projects like in the and the public structure is also recommended for a more holistic arrangement, towards cushioning the effect of similar economic crisis occasioned by any pandemic like Covid-19 in general.
Clostridial Vaccine for Veterinary Use in Iran: A Review
Authors: Khiav Lida Abdolmohammadi , Paradise Alireza , Langroudi Reza Pilehchian , Khaki Pejvak
Published: March 2021

Clostridia are Gram-positive anaerobic, spore-forming rods, found in soil, water as well as          gastro-intestinal tract of human and animals worldwide. Clostridial infections are among the most prevalent diseases in Iran. Clostridium causes botulism, tetanus, food poisoning, wound infections, enterotoxaemia, gas gangrene, necrotic enteritis, pseudomembranous colitis, blackleg and black disease. Clostridium also causes several diseases affecting the livestock and poultry industries throughout the world. Vaccination against clostridial infection is effective in immunization of domestic animals and birds. This review discusses clostridial infection and the development of vaccines against their infection in Iran. The last reported outbreaks of blackleg, black disease and enterotoxaemia occurred years ago, so these vaccines have been produced since the 1960s using traditional and conventional methods. In recent years, molecular biology methods have been developed and applied to the identification of clostridial diseases among animals. In this study, molecular cloning strategies for the major toxins of Clostridium species, for development of recombinant vaccines, were designed and evaluated. In vivo studies indicate that the recombinant vaccines will increase immunity against disease in laboratory animals. These experimental vaccines can thus be used in future pilot studies in Iran. This review article presents current knowledge regarding C. perfringens, C. novyi, C. septicum and C. chauvoei in the veterinary industry in Iran.
Post-COVID-19 Scenarios in the East African Community: Implications for Sustainable Development
Authors: Angom Juliet
Published: March 2021

The Corona Virus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic with its lasting imprints on health, livelihoods and economies has plunged the world into complete disarray and staged an interregnum to the momentum of United Nations’ Decade of Action. With some discovered vaccines for the causative virus being administered in some regions, the profound uncertainties are now the virus, its trajectory and the possible post-pandemic scenarios thereof that the world or its individual countries will trickle into. It is unclear whether the pandemic provides an imitable opportunity for futuristic sustainable development or it is a prefatory incidence to an otherwise worse tomorrow. These two (most-pessimistic and worst-case) scenarios have a common thread which depicts uncertainty of the future of humanity. Yet, the most optimistic discourses have undermined the negative realities that global communities predict. This study tables an analysis of the possible global post-COVID-19 pandemic scenarios and trickles down to the same in the context of the East African Community (EAC), (Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi and South Sudan). At the very least, encountered reports indicate that global debates on the post-pandemic future are classifiable into (1) the most likely return to “business-as-usual”, (2) a managed transition, or (3) a discernible paradigm shift. For the East African Community, the post-COVID-19 scenarios are poised to be influenced by the new world order reconfiguration; the region’s trajectory to sustainable development in the post-pandemic era is hinged on a solution of a global nature that favors making long-term decisions. Otherwise, the region’s scenario is likely the ‘‘business-as-usual’’ one.
Variation in protein and amino acids content among landraces of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Flores-Sosa Ángel Ramón , Aquino-Bolaños Elia Nora , Cardador-Martínez Anaberta , Chávez-Servia José Luis , Vera-Guzmán Araceli Minerva , Carrillo-Rodríguez José Cruz , Jiménez Jimena Esther Alba
Published: March 2021

Native bean populations (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) provide bioactive and nutrient compounds; however, their amino acid profiles are unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the protein content and amino acid profile of 46 native bean populations cultivated by small farmers in Oaxaca, Mexico, and compare them with that of commercial beans. Through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), 16 amino acids were identified and quantified in all samples. The region of origin influenced the concentrations of amino acids. The Santa Lucia Miahuatlan populations stood out for their high content of isoleucine, threonine, methionine, arginine, serine, alanine, tyrosine, and cysteine. Amino acid content showed high variability among the populations; accessions labeled as FSLM22, FSLM27, FSLM28, and FSLM32 were enriched in aliphatic, hydroxylated, aromatic, acidic, and basic amino acids, while the FSLM14, FSLM17, and FSLM18 populations had the highest concentrations of sulfur amino acids. The FSLM01, FSLM22, FSLM27, FSLM28, FSLM30, and FSLM32 populations frequently displayed the highest concentrations of essential amino acids. The findings show that samples of native populations are highly variable in amino acid content due to the genetic characteristics of cultivated beans, environmental and agroecological influences, and crop management by farmers. The beans populations stood out can be used for direct use or a basis for the initiation of a breeding program.
Retrospective longitudinal study on Canine and Feline Parvovirus Infections in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Al Eissaee Shamma Abdulla , Mohteshamuddin Khaja , Mahel Zaib , Ameni Gobena
Published: March 2021

Background: There is a lack of epidemiological data on parvovirus infections in cats and dogs in the Al Ain, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Objective: To conduct retrospective longitudinal study on parvovirus infections in cats and dogs treated at the Claws and Paws Veterinary Clinic in Al Ain, UAE.

Methods: Data on clinical examination and laboratory tests were extracted in March 2020 retrospectively from case records of cats and dogs treated at Paws & Claws Veterinary Clinic in Al Ain between February 2019 to March 2020.

Results: Of the total 2247 cases of small animals treated at Claws and Paws clinic for different health problems between February 2019 and March 2020, 68 were parvovirus infection cases constituting 3% (95% confidence interval, CI: 2.3%, 3.8%) of the total small animal cases treated at the Clinic during the indicated time. Seventy-two percent of the parvovirus cases were feline parvovirus (FPV) cases (feline panleukopenia) while the remaining 28% of the cases were canine parvovirus (CPV) cases. The difference in the proportions of  CPV and FPV was significant (c2 = 26.14; p<0.001). Overall, the number of cases was low during most months of the year; but increased in November and December 2019 reaching its peak in January 2020 after which it declined. Significant (Cochran’s Q test=141.54; p<0.001) difference was observed in the proportions of animals exhibited different clinical signs.

Conclusion: This study indicated the endemicity of CPV and FPV infections in Al Ain. Additionally, increase in number of cases was observed between November January, suggesting seasonality of the epidemics requiring for vaccination prior to the epidemic period.
Spectrophotometric Quantification of Phytic Acid During Embryogenesis in Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea L.) Through Phosphomolybdenum Complex Formation
Authors: Mandizvo Takudzwa , Odindo Alfred Oduor
Published: March 2021

In relation to seed vigour and hyperosmotic stress, phytic acid has implications in imparting drought tolerance and enrichment of seed mineral reserves respectively. The present study was undertaken to determine the variation in phytic acid during seed development and physiological maturity of 4 Bambara groundnut landraces. The landraces were grown in field during 2017–2018 rain season at Ukulinga, Pietermaritzburg. The phytate content was estimated indirectly from 14-65 days after flowering (DAF) by using a spectrophotometer, evaluating the total extractable phosphorus absorbance at 720 nm. An analysis is described for the rapid determination of phosphorus in developing seeds. The colour complex (phosphomolybdenum) formed under acidic conditions absorbs maximally at 720 nm in acidic (pH<4.5) solutions. Absorbance of the chromophore when measured spectrophotometrically at 720 nm, it obeys Beer’s law over the range of 0 to 75 ppm of standard phosphorus solution. There were significant differences (P<0.001) in total extractable phosphorus at 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 and 65 DAF. The highest and lowest extractable phosphorus was recorded in G340A and Kazai respectively. Pi seed content was between 1.51 and 5.69 mgkg-1 at 14 DAF, at physiological maturity (65 DAF) Pi was recorded between 21.73 and 32.23 mgkg-1. We drew conclusions that Bambara groundnut landraces may differ in both (1) phytic acid accumulation rate and (2) phytic acid content at physiological maturity. The results reported open the possibility of a specific seed selection criterion for improving the mineral element value of Bambara groundnut through the identification of landraces with high-Pi (phytic acid).
Relationship Among Antibiotic Residues And Antibacterial Activity Of The Endemic Spurge Honey (Euphorbia Resinifera O. Berg) From Morocco
Authors: Benjamaa Rania , Moujanni Abdelkarim , Terrab Anass , Eddoha Rabiaa , Benbachir Maryam , Moujahid Abderrahman , Nasser Boubker , Darkaoui Sami , Zyate Nadia , Talmi Ali , Essamadi Abdel  Khalid
Published: March 2021

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria continue to be of major health concern worldwide. In recent years, several reports and scientific articles claim the contamination of honey by antibiotics, detectable concentrations of antibiotic residues in honey are illegal. They, may cause hypersensitivity or resistance to drug therapy in humans, and are perceived by consumers as undesirable. In this sense, the purpose of this work was to examine the antibacterial activity of the Euphorbia resinifera (E. resinifera) honey against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in vitro using the well-agar diffusion assay followed by dilution range to obtain more precise minimum inhibitory concentration values. The second aim is to evaluate the presence of antibiotics in honey using a screening test: Evidence InvestigatorTM, an immuno-enzymatic method for detection of 27 antibiotic residues followed by a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for confirmation of suspect samples; in order to assess the relationship between the presence of antibiotic residues and the antibacterial activity of honey. In this study, a total of 37 E. resinifera honey samples were analyzed. The results show that all samples of honey inhibited the growth of bacteria at the dilutions at 50% (v/v); the highest inhibition zone (25.98 ± 0.11 mm) was recorded from sample 5 for Staphylococcus aureus and (13.84 ± 1.10 mm) in sample 17 for Escherichia coli and that 50% (v/v) dilutions showed significant antibacterial effect compared to other dilutions (6.25, 12.5, 25% (v/v)). In all samples, there were no antibiotic residues detected except for one showing the detection of Trimethoprim at 6.48 µg kg-1. Our research is one of the first studies that relate the he relationship between the presence of antibiotic residues and the antibacterial activity of Euphorbia resinifera honey and showed that the antibacterial activity of honey might be due to the high osmotic nature, a low pH, its content of phenolic compounds and hydrogen peroxide and also to its content of methylglyoxal.
Characterization and plant growth promoting potential of microbial groups associated with a Coffea sp. collection
Authors: González Vega María Esther , Rodríguez Annia Hernández , Díaz Yarelys Herrera , Espino José Ángel Lacerra , Viva Merardo Ferrer , Ardisana Eduardo Fidel Héctor , Pérez-Álvarez Sandra
Published: March 2021

The genus Coffea spp. is the most important of the Rubiaceae family and both Coffea arabica L. and Coffea canephora P. constitute the most economically important species. This research aimed to characterize morphologically, physiologically and biochemically diazotrophic rhizobacteria associated with coffee plants from a living collection, and to study their plant growth promoting potential. Semi-solid nitrogen-free media NFb and JNFb were used to isolate the bacteria. Ten isolates were selected for micro-morphological, physiological-biochemical and plant growth potential characterization. The solubilization of calcium phosphate, the synthesis of indole compounds and the production of siderophores were analyzed. The results showed that high population levels of bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes are present in the rhizosphere of the coffee collection. 95 native isolates were selected, and 8 were classified as Azospirillum and Herbaspirillum. Phosphate solubilizing activity was detected in the ten isolates, highlighting the C8 isolate. Synthesis of indole compounds was also detected by the ten isolates, although in amounts significantly lower than the controls. Only isolates C2, C9 and C10 produced siderophores. The multivariate cluster analysis resulted in the formation of three groups, the C8 grouped with the positive control in one of them. The beneficial potential of this isolate makes it a source of interest to develop a biostimulant product that could be applied as a sustainable alternative for the cultivation of Coffea sp.
Gas chromatographic analysis of the fatty acid composition of mustard oil obtained by cold pressing (method)
Authors: Ostrikov Alexander Nikolaevich , Kleymenova Natalya Leonidovna , Bolgova Inessa Nikolaevna , Kopylov Maxim Vasilyevich
Published: March 2021

Nowadays there is such a type of product as mustard oil, which is a stockpot of valuable fatty acids and vitamins. Mustard oil is used in various fields of industry. It has a characteristic smell and taste, yellow-brown color. Mustard grows mostly in the southern regions. It is resistant to various diseases and pests. There is evidence from scientific research that proves the beneficial properties of this oilseed. Mustard oil was obtained by cold pressing under the following conditions: annular gap of the grain chamber of the oil press was 0.6 mm; screw rotation speed was 166 rpm; pressing temperature was 345 K. The study of the component composition of mustard oil was carried out by gas-liquid chromatography. The qualitative composition of the test sample was determined in the work. It contains the following acids - palmitic (4%), stearic (3%), polyunsaturated acids - linoleic (32%), linolenic (8%) and eicosenic (2%), monounsaturated acid - oleic (47%). The data obtained correlate with literary data. It was proved that unsaturated acids can act as essential nutrients. The presence of other fatty acids, the amount of which is within acceptable limits, is also identified in the work. Mustard oil vitamin composition studies were carried out according to standard methods. Vitamins A, E, K, β-carotene and α, β + γ, δ tocopherols were found in the original sample. Vitamins A, E, K increase immunity and strengthen the walls of blood vessels, as well as are anti-inflammatory substances. The presence of tocopherols benefits the skin. The results of studies of mustard oil allow us to conclude that the components identification is necessary for the development of balanced blends with a reduced amount of saturated acids and a high amount of semi-saturated acids.
Production of Serra da Estrela cheese from ultrafiltered sheep’s milk
Authors: Faion Andréia Maria , Menegotto Anne Luize Lupatini , Fernandes Ilizandra Aparecida , Steffens Clarice , Steffens Juliana , Valduga Eunice
Published: March 2021

The objective of this study is to elaborate Serra da Estrela cheese with sheep's milk concentrate by ultrafiltration and characterize it in relation to protein, yield, proteolysis, amino acid profile, and acceptability. The cheese elaborated with concentrate milk (F2) presented an increase of 17% yield, and protein content was 2 times higher than cheese without concentrate milk (F1). On the 30thday of storage F2 presented an increase of the amino acids and also of proteolysis extension and depth index in relation to the 1st day. Also presented better sensorial characteristic in relation to F1. Were observed positive correlations (>0.85) between acceptability in relation to protein, depth index, extensionand extension index, valine, methionine, serine, phenylalanine aspartic acid, valine andproline. Cheese elaborated with concentrate milk and coagulated with thistle flower is one alternative to increase cheese yield with differential sensorial characteristics.
Determination of -carotene content in Musa AA pulp (Kluai Khai) at different ripening stage and harvest period in Thailand
Authors: Tongpoolsomjit Kongaphisith , Grandmottet François , Boonruangrod Ratri , Jarupa Viyoch Akharapong Krueajan,
Published: March 2021

Musa AA ‘Kluai Khai’ banana, is an important economic crop in Thailand. It was evaluated according to its morphology, total soluble solids (TSS), and pulp b-carotene content over different months according to its ripening state. The climate variability of Thailand in 2019 resulted in smaller bananas in May than in other months (March and July). TSS was found to be a directly proportional correlation to the ripening stage. The genotype and ploidy of Musa AA ‘Kluai Khai’ were confirmed using molecular markers and flow cytometry. The yellowish pigment of carotenoid was extracted from banana pulp using THF:MeOH (1:1, v/v). The utilization of HPLC displayed b-carotene content in Musa AA ‘Kluai Khai’ pulp as high as 5222.6 ± 83.8 µg / 100 g of fresh weight (gfw) in the 4th state of banana development in March, which was higher than those in July (4072.8 µg/ 100 gfw) and May (3121.8 µg/ 100 gfw) for the same ripening state. The relationship between b-carotene content and the ripening state was calculated to be a logarithmic correlation.
Experimental studies and mathematical modeling on the effects of rapid airflow and baking temperature during baking
Authors: Zakuan Azmi Mazidah Mior , Ahmedov Anvarjon , Taip Farah Saleena
Published: March 2021

Rapid airflow in oven will influence the heat transfer in baking process therefore the purpose of this study is to experimentally and numerically investigate the effects of operating conditions on the heat transfer mechanism and volume expansion during baking. Cakes are baked in an air fryer and convection oven with constant speed 5.11 m/s and 0.88 m/s respectively at 150, 160, 170 °C in different baking times. A heat transfer model was defined to describe the influence of baking temperature on internal cake temperature by Fourier’s law. It was observed that the presence of rapid airflow (air fryer) and increment in oven temperature yielded an increase in volume expansion but produced a less moist product. Cakes baked in the presence of rapid airflow at 150 °C were moister but with little volume expansion in the cakes compared to convection oven-baked cakes. Significant correlation between the numerical models with experimental temperature profiles were recorded during complete cake baking process.
Post-lambing maternal effects in hair ewes fed omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the late gestation
Authors: Cruz Ulises Macías- , Vicente-Pérez Ricardo , Mellado M. , Meza-Herrera Cesar A. , Luna-Palomera Carlos , Correa-Calderón Abelardo , Avendaño-Reyes Leonel
Published: March 2021

Soybean oil (SBO) is rich in omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and its dietary supplementation during late gestation to ewes improves colostrum production and lamb pre-weaning growth; however, little is known about the long-term maternal effects after lambing. So, aim was to determine the effects of dietary inclusion level of SBO (0 [control], 30 and 60 g kg-1 dry matter) during late pregnancy on udder size, milk secretion, and dam metabolism during the first 60 d post-lambing. Thirty Katahdin x Pelibuey multiparous ewes (100 d of gestation) were blocked and randomly assigned within each block to three treatments. After lambing, ewes were fed the same lactation diet until 60 d post-lambing and study variables were measured on this period every 10 d. Solids non-fat in milk from control ewes were lower at day 10 and greater at day 20 compared to milk from SBO-fed ewes, although opposite effects were observed for lactose content on those days. Udder volume, depth and width increased linearly as the SBO level increased. Body status, physiological variables, milk production and serum analyte concentrations were unaffected by SBO. It was concluded that feeding hair ewes in late gestation with diets including SBO improves udder size, and solids non-fat and lactose content in milk, without affecting dam metabolism, during the post-lambing period.
Assessment of allelopathic potential of Dalbergia cochinchinensis Pierre and its growth inhibitory substance
Authors: Krumsri Ramida , Iwasaki Arihiro , Suenaga Kiyotake , Kato-Noguchi Hisashi
Published: March 2021

In forestry systems, many types of forest trees possess allelopathic properties and release a wide variety of allelochemicals that influence the growth and development of surrounding species. Dalbergia cochinchinensis, a forest tree distributed in Southeast Asia, is reputed to possess several biological properties and contain several secondary compounds. However, there have been no studies on the allelopathy of D. cochinchinensis. Therefore, D. cochinchinensis leaf extracts were examined for allelopathic potential. The present study showed that D. cochinchinensis extracts significantly inhibited the seedling growth of six test plant species: timothy, Italian ryegrass, barnyard grass, cress, alfalfa, and lettuce. Concentrations of the D. cochinchinensis extracts negatively correlated with the shoot length (r = −0.50 to −0.89) and root length (r = −0.65 to −0.89) of all the test plant species. The extracts were then purified using several chromatographic steps and the growth inhibitory substance was isolated. The chemical structure of the substance was identified through spectroscopic analysis as 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (protocatechuic acid). Protocatechuic acid at a concentration higher than 3 mM significantly inhibited the growth of cress seedlings, whereas barnyard grass seedlings were inhibited at concentrations higher than 0.3 mM. As the protocatechuic acid concentration increased, the seedling growth of cress and barnyard grass was significantly reduced. I50 values showed the effectiveness of protocatechuic acid against both test plant species was apparently greater on root growth than shoot growth. Results of this study suggest that protocatechuic acid isolated from D. cochinchinensis might be responsible for its inhibitory effects.
Effect of organic fertilization on soil characteristics, yield and quality of Virginia Tobacco in Mediterranean area.
Authors: Tabaxi Ioanna , Kakabouki Ioanna , Ζisi Charikleia , Folina Antigolena , Karydogianni Stella , Kalivas Apostolos , Bilalis Dimitrios
Published: March 2021

As organic tobacco is a consumer choice, it is necessary to explore the proper fertilization program with environmentally friendly practices. Α field experiment lasting 3 growing seasons  established at the Agricultural University of Athens in order to examined the effect of comparison between organic and inorganic fertilization on (flue-cured) Virginia tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum L.) and soil. A randomized complete block design with four treatments (manure, compost, NPK and control) and three replications was set up. The results of analysis of variance for treatments showed that the organic matter of soil did not affected by the fertilization while CaCO3 significantly affected by fertilization. The N concentration in soil does not significantly affected by fertilization.  Plants height was higher under the inorganic fertilization in comparison to that of the organic fertilization treatments. The final yield was affected by year and it is higher in control treatment with highest value 7,053.42 kg ha-1 The fertilization does not significant affect the uptake N leaves was affected by fertilization and was higher under inorganic fertilizer, ranged from 2.73 to 0.88%. The nicotine and sugar on Virginia tobacco were not significant affected by fertilization.  A strong correlation was observed between yield and reducing sugars (r= 0.66). The results of the current study revealed that the organic fertilization affected certain soil characteristics and not the quality characteristics of tobacco.
The impact of different nutritional treatments on maize hybrids morphological traits based on stability statistical methods
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Mohammad Nasir , Illés Árpád , Bojtor Csaba , Nagy Janos
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the sustainability of agriculture in the context of the various debates that have occurred about agriculture, its elements, and functions. One of the main breeding programs aims to achieve stable and high yield varieties in different conditions by studying the effect of genotypes on traits year on year. The study investigates the effect of genotypes on grain yield traits in two hybrids (FAO340 and FAO410) planted in a completely randomized block design with four replications for two years in the Debrecen region of Hungary. It includes a combined variance analysis significant on different fertilizer treatments with traits on FAO410 and FAO340 hybrids. The AMMI analysis and biplot showed that one thousand grain weight and leaf number were the maximum effects on the yield in the FAO340 hybrid. Also, plant fresh weight and plant height were the maximum effects on the yield in the FAO410 hybrid. The fourth fertilizer treatment had the highest yield, with desirable stability on FAO340 and FAO410. There were desirable stability, maximum effect on yield by plant fresh weight, seeds per column amount, and stem diameter effects for the FAO340 hybrid, and seeds per ear weight, number of seeds per column, ear weight, and number of nodes effects in the FAO410 hybrid by GGE biplot analysis. The results confirmed that both the FAO340 hybrid and the FAO410 hybrid had desirable stability in Hungary.
How does reducing sodium impact the proteolysis and texture in salted meat along 180 days of shelf life?
Authors: Vidal Vitor Andre Silva , Nachtigall Fabiane Manke , Baseggio Andressa , Junior Mario Roberto Marostica , Santos Leonardo Silva , Pollonio Marise Aparecida Rodrigues
Published: March 2021

Sodium reduction in salted meat is a major technological challenge due to the technological functions of NaCl, responsible for the reduction of water activity and consequent microbiological safety, stability during shelf life, sensory characteristics, proteolysis and lipolysis. The objective of this research is to evaluate the effects of partial replacement of NaCl by KCl and CaCl2 in the texture properties during 180 days of storage in salted meat. During 180 days of storage, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) of shear force values have been observed in all treatments. The electrophoretic images suggest that CaCl2 can promote denaturation of high molecular weight proteins resulting in lower molecular weight proteins. The results showed the intense effects of CaCl2 on texture and proteolysis reactions and the blend NaCl + KCl produced a similar impact to salted meat product compared to control treatment (100% NaCl).
Influence of corn forage type and flaxseed on the productive parameters, meat quality and sensory analysis in Pelibuey lambs
Authors: Ramírez Diana Tamara , Rodriguez José Reyes Galaviz , Aguilar Xochitl Gabriela Montalvo , Peñalosa Patricia Villalobos , Roldán Pablo Cortés , Calva Luz Marina Hernández
Published: March 2021

The effect of corn straw (CS) or silage (CL), combined with flaxseed (Fx) on meat quality production and sensory analysis of Pelibuey lambs were evaluated. Sixty-four Pelibuey lambs were divided to each of the following treatments: T1) Corn Straw (CS: 16.3%) without flaxseed (Fx) in the diet, T2) CS plus 6% of Fx, T3) Corn silage (CL: 15%) without Fx and T4) CL plus 6% of Fx. Dry matter intake improved by 9.2% with CL vs. CS. The feed conversion improved with the use of CL in 1-14d (P≤ 0.02) and 14-28d (0.05) in 11.7% and 10.4%, respectively. Coordinate b was increased by 38% (P=0.01) in the animals fed with CS. Thus results show that Fx did not influence the physical-chemical and sensory variables of the meat. CL favorably changed the feed intake, flavor and juiciness of the meat, as in the fattening of lambs.
Analysing the attributes of Comprehensive Cancer Centres and Cancer Centres across Europe to identify key hallmarks
Authors: Kehrloesser Sebastian , Oberst Simon , Westerhuis Willien , Wendler Astrid , Wind Anke , Blaauwgeers Harriët , Burrion Jean‐Benoit , Nagy Péter , Saeter Gunnar , Gustafsson Eva , De Paoli Paolo , Lovey József , Lombardo Claudio , Philip Thierry , de Valeriola Dominique , Docter Marjet , Boomsma Femke , Saghatchian Mahasti , Svoboda Marek , Philip Irene , Monetti Francesco , Hummel Henk , McVie Gordon , Otter Renée , van Harten Wim
Published: March 2021

There is a persistent variation in cancer outcomes among and within European countries suggesting (among other causes) inequalities in access to or delivery of high‐quality cancer care. European policy (EU Cancer Mission and Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan) is currently moving towards a mission‐oriented approach addressing these inequalities. In this study, we used the quantitative and qualitative data of the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes’ Accreditation and Designation Programme, relating to 40 large European cancer centres, to describe their current compliance with quality standards, to identify the hallmarks common to all centres and to show the distinctive features of Comprehensive Cancer Centres. All Comprehensive Cancer Centres and Cancer Centres accredited by the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes show good compliance with quality standards related to care, multidisciplinarity and patient centredness. However, Comprehensive Cancer Centres on average showed significantly better scores on indicators related to the volume, quality and integration of translational research, such as high‐impact publications, clinical trial activity (especially in phase I and phase IIa trials) and filing more patents as early indicators of innovation. However, irrespective of their size, centres show significant variability regarding effective governance when functioning as entities within larger hospitals.