bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The protective effect of DMI on hippocampus EEG, behavioral and biochemical parameters in hypoxia-induced seizure on neonatal period
Authors: Nazarizadeh Shadi , Ghotbeddin Zohreh , Ghafouri Samireh , Sarkaki Alireza
Published: November 2024

Hypoxia-Induced Neonatal Seizure (HINS) is a prevalent type of seizure in infants caused by hypoxic conditions, which can lead to an increased risk of epilepsy, learning disabilities, and cognitive impairments later in life. This study focuses on examining the effects of dimethyl itaconate (DMI) on cognition, motor coordination, and anxiety-like behavior in male rats that have experienced HINS. 42 male Wistar newborn rats (PND10) were randomly divided into six groups (n = 7). 1) Control (Vehicle only); received DMI solvent (0.1ml) without applying hypoxia. 2–3) DMI; receiving (20 and 50 mg/kg; i.p). 4) HINS; they were placed in a hypoxia chamber with 7% oxygen and 93% nitrogen concentration for 15 minutes. 5–6) DMI+HINS; received DMI (20 and 50 mg/kg; i.p) 24h before hypoxia. Behavioral tests including; Novel object recognition test, Rotarod, Parallel bar, Open field and elevated plus maze (EPM); started at age 45 after birth. After behavioral tests, the hippocampal CA1 region local EEG was recorded in all groups. Then the brain hippocampus tissue was isolated and the amount of MDA, SOD, NO, and Thiol was measured by ELISA method. Data showed that the administration of DMI improved motor symptoms, anxiety-like behaviors, and cognition in HINS rats (p<0.05). EEG power in the HINS group decreased significantly compared to other experimental groups (p<0.05). Biochemical observations showed that DMI significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in the hippocampal tissue of HINS rats (p<0.05). Increased hippocampal oxidative stress and inflammation can be effective in the occurrence of behavioral disorders observed in HINS rats. While DMI improved these behavioral impairments by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Associations of back muscle endurance with occupational back muscle activity and spinal loading among subsistence farmers and office workers in Rwanda
Authors: Sibson Benjamin E. , Harris Alexandra R. , Yegian Andrew K. , Uwimana Aimable , Nuhu Assuman , Thomas Alec , Anderson Dennis E. , Ojiambo Robert M. , Lieberman Daniel E.
Published: November 2024

Over the course of the physical activity transition, machines have largely replaced skeletal muscle as the source of work for locomotion and other forms of occupational physical activity in industrial environments. To better characterize this transition and its effect on back muscles and the spine, we tested to what extent typical occupational activities of rural subsistence farmers demand higher magnitudes and increased variability of back muscle activity and spinal loading compared to occupational activities of urban office workers in Rwanda, and whether these differences were associated with back muscle endurance, the dominant risk factor for back pain. Using electromyography, inertial measurement units, and OpenSim musculoskeletal modeling, we measured back muscle activity and spinal loading continuously while participants performed occupational activities for one hour. We measured back muscle endurance using electromyography median frequency analysis. During occupational work, subsistence farmers activate their back muscles and load their spines at 390% higher magnitudes and with 193% greater variability than office workers. Partial correlations accounting for body mass show magnitude and variability response variables are positively associated with back muscle endurance (R = 0.39–0.90 [P < 0.001–0.210] and R = 0.54–0.72 [P = 0.007–0.071], respectively). Body mass is negatively correlated with back muscle endurance (R = -0.60, P = 0.031), suggesting higher back muscle endurance may be also partly attributable to having lower body mass. Because higher back muscle endurance is a major factor that prevents back pain, these results reinforce evidence that under-activating back muscles and under-loading spines at work increases vulnerability to back pain and may be an evolutionary mismatch. As sedentary occupations become more common, there is a need to study the extent to which occupational and leisure time physical activities that increase back muscle endurance helps prevent back pain.
Versatile properties of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers: In vitro exploration of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities, network pharmacology analysis, and In-silico molecular docking simulation
Authors: Mwaheb Mai Ali , Reda Nashwa Mohamed , El-Wetidy Mohammad S. , Sheded Asmaa H. , Al-Otibi Fatimah , Al-Hamoud Gadah A. , Said Mohamed A. , Aidy Esraa A.
Published: November 2024

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. has been used in folk medicine against several diseases. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the chemical composition of the methanolic extract of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flowers and their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Besides, network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to explore the potential antitumor effect of active metabolites of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. against breast and liver cancer. The results revealed many bioactive components known for their antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Furthermore, scavenging activity was obtained, which indicated strong antioxidant properties. The plant extract exhibited antimicrobial activities against Aspergillus brasiliensis (MIC of 0.625 mg/mL), Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at MICs of 1.25 mg/mL. The results revealed proapoptotic activities of the O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. extract against MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and HepG2 cell lines, where it induced significant early apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at sub-G1 phases, besides increasing the expression levels of p53, cyclin D1, and caspase 3 (p <0.005). The network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis revealed that the anticancer components of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. flower extract targets the PI3K-Akt pathway. More investigations might be required to test the mechanistic pathways by which O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill. might exhibit its biological activities in vivo.
Clinical, laboratory, and hospital factors associated with preoperative complications in Peruvian older adults with hip fracture
Authors: Aguirre-Milachay Edwin , León-Figueroa Darwin A. , Valladares-Garrido Mario J.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To determine the clinical, laboratory, and hospital factors associated with preoperative complications in older adults with hip fractures.

Methodology

Analytical observational retrospective cohort study, whose population was older adults with a diagnosis of hip fracture treated in a hospital in northern Peru, during 2017–2019.

Results

432 patients with a median age of 83 years (RIC: 77–88) were evaluated, with the female gender being the most prevalent (60.9%). The most common comorbidities included cardiovascular disease (68%) and diabetes (17.6%), and multimorbidity was observed in 47.2% of cases. The median number of geriatric syndromes was 2 (RIC: 1–5). The overall mortality rate was 3.2% (1.7–5.3). Analysis with the Poisson regression model found a significant association with MRC scale 3–5 degree (RR = 1.60), glucose on admission (RR = 1.01), and minimally significantly female sex (RR = 2.41).

Conclusions

The most commonly observed complications were infectious in nature, including pneumonia, sepsis, and urinary tract infections. The MRC scale from 3 to 5 degrees increases the risk of developing a preoperative complication; the glucose levels upon admission show a clinically irrelevant association; and in females, there is a minimally significant association in older adults with hip fractures.
Tissue specific innate immune responses impact viral infection in Drosophila
Authors: Segrist Elisha , Miller Steven , Gold Beth , Li Yue , Cherry Sara
Published: November 2024

All organisms sense and respond to pathogenic challenge. Tissue-specific responses are required to combat pathogens infecting distinct cell types. Cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) are produced endogenously downstream of pathogen recognition or by pathogens themselves which bind to STING to activate NF-kB-dependent antimicrobial gene expression programs. It remains unknown whether there are distinct immune responses to CDNs in Drosophila tissues. Here, we investigated tissue specific CDN-STING responses and uncovered differences in gene-induction patterns across tissues that play important roles in viral infections. Using tissue-and cell-specific genetic studies we found that dSTING in the fat body controls CDN-induced expression of dSTING-regulated gene 1 (Srg1) but not dSTING-regulated gene 2 (Srg2) or 3 (Srg3). In contrast, the gastrointestinal tract largely controls expression of Srg2 and Srg3. We found that Srg3 is antiviral against the natural fly pathogen Drosophila C virus and the human arthropod-borne Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV), but not other arthropod-borne viruses including Sindbis virus and dengue virus. Furthermore, we found that Srg3 has an important role in controlling RVFV infection of the ovary which has important implications in understanding vertical transmission of viruses and RVFV in mosquitoes. Overall, our study underscores the importance of tissue-specific responses in antiviral immunity and highlights the complex tissue regulation of the CDN-STING pathway.
Knock-in of a 3’ UTR Stop Cassette into the Wnt4 locus increases mRNA expression and leads to ovarian cyst formation
Authors: Ali Nsrein , Xu Qi , Prunskaite-Hyyryläinen Renata , Shan Jingdong , Vainio Seppo J.
Published: November 2024

Wnt4 signaling is critical for mammalian female sex determination, in female reproductive organ development, in follicular and oocyte maturation, and in steroid hormone production. When Wnt4 function is impaired, female embryos undergo partial female to male sex-reversal. This phenotype is associated with the expression of a set of somatic genes that are typical for the male differentiation pathways such as those of the Leydig cells. Given the roles of the 3`untranslated region (3`UTR) in control of gene expression, we addressed whether a knock-in of a stop cassette to 3`END of the Wnt4 gene would impact female reproductive system development or function. The 3`UTRstop cassette indeed affected Wnt4 gene expression in vivo so that the respective mRNA was upregulated in the ovaries of a three month-old female. The homozygous Wnt4 3`UTRstop mice were noted to be leaner than their wild type (WT) littermate controls. Analysis of the ovarian follicular count at the age of three months revealed increased pre-antral but reduced ovarian corpus luteum follicular counts. Furthermore, two out of five of the homozygous female Wnt4 3`UTRstop mice had ovarian cysts, not noted in WT controls. RT-qPCR and in situ hybridization analysis depicted changes in the expression of a panel of genes which encode enzymes that mediate the synthesis of female steroid hormones or their receptors due to the Wnt4 3`UTRstop knock-in. Thus, female mice which had the homozygous construct exhibited elevated ovarian Wnt4 mRNA expression and the corresponding knock-in was associated with changes in ovarian development and folliculogenesis. Our data reinforce the conclusion that deregulated Wnt4 expression impacts female sex organogenesis, ovary development and function, and that the Wnt4 3`UTRstop knock-in mouse provides a model to explore in more detail the roles of Wnt4 signaling in the process.
Constituições e Encerramentos de Pequenos Negócios no Estado de Minas Gerais em tempos de Pandemia
Authors: Almeida Junior Alexsandro da Silva , Santos Deisy Kelly Silva , Purificação Eduardo de Oliveira da , Oliveira Paloma Costa de , Berto Pedro Henrique Moreira , Rocha Sabrina Meira , Mendes Wendley Ikell Ferreira , Gonçalves Maria Elizete
Published: November 2024

O presente estudo objetiva investigar o impacto da pandemia da COVID-19 nas Empresas de Pequeno Porte (EPP), Microempresas (ME) e Microempreendedores Individuais (MEI) - que constituem os pequenos negócios - no estado de Minas Gerais, utilizando dados do Serviço Brasileiro de Apoio às Micro e Pequenas Empresas (SEBRAE), no período de 2013 a 2020. A pesquisa, de natureza descritiva, fez uso de dados sobre abertura e fechamento dos pequenos negócios, em um primeiro momento, para cada ano do estudo e para o Estado; e em um segundo momento, para as regionais do Estado, para os anos de 2013 e 2020. Foi identificado que os MEIs e as MEs tiveram mais dificuldade em manterem as operações. Ademais, as diferenças socioeconômicas de cada regional parecem estar relacionadas à abertura e fechamento dos pequenos negócios, o que denota a necessidade de intervenção governamental a fim de reduzir o impacto dessas diferenças.
Como nasce uma rainha? Notas autoetnográficas de um Processo de Subjetivação frente à Homofobia internalizada
Authors: Oliveira Neto José da Silva
Published: November 2024

A homofobia internalizada é uma vivência comum ao longo do desenvolvimento de indivíduos homossexuais, e muitos são os cenários e os elementos mediadores que contribuem para seu estabelecimento em nossa dinâmica de vida. Frente a essa problemática, este estudo objetivou, através de uma abordagem qualitativa e autoetnográfica, compreender os elementos mediadores de homofobia internalizada em indivíduos homossexuais a partir da vivência do pesquisador. Usou-se como referência de análise os Estudos Decolonias e a Psicologia Histórico-Cultural de L. S. Vigotski, os quais, a partir dos sentidos produzidos na vivência do pesquisador como um homem gay, sinalizaram que: a) a autoetnografia é uma ferramenta potente para a investigação no campo da diversidade sexual; b) há fatores que podem cruzar ao desenvolvimento de homossexuais, ocasiando eventualmente adoecimento psíquico; e c) devemos investigar os fatores de proteção presentes na história de vida de indivíduos homossexuais a fim de fortalecer suas estratégias de resistência.
Espaços Não Escolares e a Educação Permanente como possibilidade da Autenticidade do Ser Humano
Authors: Moreira Eliza Fernandes , Torres Francieudo da Silva , Rolim José Roberto Moura , Morais Ronney Costa de
Published: November 2024

O presente trabalho pretende apresentar aspectos da educação na atualidade, discorre sobre as propostas para a educação permanente e os desafios na era tecnológica, a pedagogia na contemporaneidade dentro e fora da escola e o seu papel em espaços não escolares. Fundamenta-se teoricamente em Paulo Freire (2018), Werneck (2019) e Paiva Neto (2024), entre outros. Este trabalho se justifica a partir do momento em que se discutem os aspectos a valorização da educação, a participação da família dentro do processo de ensino e pretende, portanto, servir como parâmetro junto aos pais que poderão se conscientizar do seu papel na aprendizagem dos filhos. Sendo uma pesquisa bibliográfica, desenvolveu-se a partir do estudo teórico-bibliográfico.
A Docência e as Práticas Assistidas e Metodologias Ativas
Authors: Sacramento Reinaldo da Costa , Silva Cleyde Nascimento da , Silva Tiago Teixeira da
Published: November 2024

A utilização de metodologias ativas redesenha o cenário tradicional de ensino e aprendizagem, uma vez que possibilitam ao aluno ser colocado no centro do processo de ensino e aprendizagem, tornando-o construtor do seu conhecimento através de um currículo que acrescenta as distintas disciplinas, possibilitando que ele amplie seu olhar acerca do ser humano, nas suas relações com a sociedade e com o ambiente. Dessa forma torna-se imprescindível priorizar a utilização de estratégias metodológicas inovadoras, que permitam o desenvolvimento de um egresso com perfil capaz de mobilizar mudanças no e para o processo de trabalho. Concluiu-se, pois, que, é importante e urgente, um ensino em que o aluno possa refletir sobre suas ações, verificar seu posicionamento enquanto sujeito social e político. São essas, as chamadas práticas pedagógicas, que possibilitam ao professor uma proposta cada vez mais crítica e reflexiva.
Os Novos Paradigmas do Ensino Ressignificado na Perspectiva Docente
Authors: Sacramento Reinaldo da Costa , Silva Cleyde Nascimento da , Silva Tiago Teixeira da
Published: November 2024

O presente estudo discute as inovações na sociedade, a globalização e o papel do educador de formar cidadãos é uma função que merece cada vez mais o aprimoramento do saber e da visão humanizada e crítica de quem ensina. Nos dois últimos séculos a educação vem sendo caracterizada pelo pensamento newtoniano-cartesiano que definiu a reprodução e a fragmentação do conhecimento. O advento da sociedade do conhecimento e as facilidades conquistadas pela rede informatizada levam a buscar metodologias que venham atender a um paradigma emergente. Concluiu-se que, é preciso que os profissionais docentes utilizem por meio de suas aulas atividades dinâmicas, que explore dos alunos o que eles têm de melhor, devido a heterogeneidade das escolas isso possibilita a construção de novas propostas, pois são diversos sujeitos em que cada um tem uma aptidão e o profissional pode trabalhar em meio a essas diferenças.
What Have Introductory Books on Legal Reasoning Ever Done for Us?
Authors: Samuel Geoffrey
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this article is to investigate, and to review, a number of recent introductions to law with the emphasis being on those introducing students to legal reasoning. The investigation will have as its focus not just reasoning methodology but equally the ontological and epistemological foundations upon which the reasoning is based. The investigation will be comparative in its orientation; it will examine, in particular, works from common lawyers and French jurists, with references also to books produced by Roman law specialists (Romanists). It will show that many introductions are based on an ontological foundation that emphasizes rules—the rule model—and that, with regard to some of the introductory books, this emphasis has engendered what is arguably a simplistic view of legal knowledge and method. Are such books, it might be asked, epistemologically reliable? To help answer this question, another comparative orientation to be undertaken is to examine some introductory works in the social sciences in order to see not only how these works may differ in their approach to knowledge and methodology but also how methodological discussions in the social sciences could be valuable for lawyers.
Keywords: analogy; epistemology; introductions; logic; ontology; perception; rule model; syllogism.
The (In)efficiency and (Un)certainty of Non-propositional Structures of Reality … or, Adventures in Philosophy of Understanding
Authors: Herian Robert
Published: November 2024

This article critically discusses understanding, certainty and efficiency in relation to juridical and jurisprudential contexts. Understanding is an undertheorized topic in law and jurisprudence, despite philosophy and epistemology addressing it at some length in recent years. The focus, therefore, is on understanding-in-law (or understanding as a cognitive function of the law) rather than understanding-of-law, which is an exceedingly well-trodden path in doctrinal, critical and philosophical legal work. The article acknowledges that this branch of epistemology is perhaps new ground for legal academics, and thanks to Luca Siliquini-Cinelli’s landmark book, Scientia Iuris, the article is a response to his thesis that law’s regulatory function has grown in recent decades to embrace and embody knowledge while voiding experience. And while this leads Siliquini-Cinelli to the conclusion that law is a matter only of knowledge, not of experience, the article raises questions about what dwells cognitively between poles of knowledge and experience, and how we can take from or define a place for understanding between poles of knowledge and experience. It also explores the role of certainty and efficiency in shaping understanding in law and beyond, with understanding ultimately defined as a grasping of the structures of the objects of law, different from and in contrast to legal knowledge.
Keywords: understanding; certainty; knowledge; efficiency; law.
Zhang Wanhong (张万红), 1976-2024
Authors: Ding Peng , Gao Wei , Huang Zhong , Liu Hanxu
Published: November 2024

Amicus Curiae is pleased to republish below a memorial note commemorating the life and work of the very distinguished Chinese legal scholar Professor Zhang Wanhong, of Wuhan University. Professor Zhang passed away earlier this year. The note came to our attention in The China Collection (formerly Chinese Law Prof Blog) an important forum for posting news and other materials on China’ s legal development. We thank the authors for kindly giving Amicus Curiae permission to republish the commemorative note.
Cross-border litigation in a digital context: from classrooms to judiciary
Authors: Lucchi López-Tapia Yolanda de
Published: November 2024

The present publication can be defined in three words: relevant, original and novel. It is a work divided into four parts, which is immersed in the study of procedural and procedural law for the cross-border litigation in civil and criminal disputes, from a very interesting perspective, mainly for two reasons: originality and critical-constructive character. The book begins with a work on teaching innovation in procedural law in today's globalised, multicultural and interconnected society. The other three parts of the book deal with very new topics in the resolution of cross-border disputes, from the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups, procedural issues such as digital evidence, data encryption, class actions, alternative dispute resolution methods, among many other subjects that shape the resolution of disputes today.
The Influence of Galvanic Currents and Voltage on the Proliferation Activity of Lymphocytes and Expression of Cell Surface Molecules
Authors: Podzimek Štěpán , Hána K. , Mikšovský M. , Poušek L. , Matucha P. , Meloun M. , Procházková J.
Published: November 2024

Release of metal ions from dental metal fillings supported by galvanism can cause local or general pathological problems in sensitive and genetically susceptible individuals. We aimed to investigate in vitro lymphocyte responses and expression of surface molecules influenced by galvanic currents and voltage. Human peripheral blood lymphocytes were influenced by galvanic currents and voltages and lymphocyte proliferation was measured. Control samples were not exposed to the influence of galvanism. We also studied the expression of surface molecules by the FACS analysis. A 15-h and shorter influence of almost all tested currents and voltages caused a significant decrease in lymphocyte proliferation and the 15-h influence of 20 μA currents significantly increased expression of surface molecules CD 19, 11a/18, 19/69 and 19/95. An influence of 10 and 3 μA currents led to a significant decrease in the expression of surface molecules CD 3, 11a/18, 3/69 and 3/95 and to a significant increase in CD 19 expression. An 80 mV voltage influence led to a significant decrease in the expression of surface molecules CD 3, 11a/18, 3/69, 3/95, 19/69 and 19/95, and 200 and 300 mV voltages significantly decreased the expression of surface molecules CD 3, 19, 11a/18, 3/95 and 19/95 and significantly increased CD 19/69 expression. A long-lasting influence of galvanism can, in sensitive and genetically susceptible individuals, influence lymphocyte proliferation and surface molecule expression. The threshold for pathological values of 5 μA for galvanic currents and 100 mV for galvanic voltage was confirmed.
Topical issues in the production of animal-based products and product quality in Hungary, with particular respect to entry into the European union
Authors: BABINSZKY L. , STEFLER J.
Published: November 2024

Agriculture has always played a prominent role in the economic life of Hungary, this being attributable to the geographical situation, natural conditions and historical traditions of the country. However, in consequence of the social changes which occurred in 1989 a strong decline in agricultural production has been observed. This unfavourable tendency is illustrated clearly by data indicating that, in contrast to the 17.5 % of Hungarian GDP produced in the agricultural sector between 1981 and 1985, this proportion had fallen to 6.6 % by 1996. Unfortunately, due to the decline in agricultural production an undesirable deterioration in quality is also now being experienced. With respect to improvement of the quality of milk, the endeavours of breeders are oriented towards accomplishing an increase in milk protein and fat content. Taking into consideration the fact that among the dairy breeds the Holstein-Friesian dominates worldwide, no penetrating improvement can be anticipated within a short period of time. The quality of pig meat can also be improved substantially by means of nutritional procedures. In the formulation of animal diets it is essential that account be taken of the ratio of digestible amino acids to digestible energy. In the past few years research projects in animal nutrition have been oriented primarily towards establishing how the fatty acid composition of meat may be influenced by means of the diet fed, since fatty acid composition bears great significance with respect to human nutrition.
HERITABILITY (h2) ESTIMATION OF CERTAIN TRAITS SERVING AS MEASURES OF VALUE IN PURE-BRED HUNGARIAN PIG POPULATIONS
Authors: CSATÓ L. , FARKAS J. , OBORNIK A. , RADNÓCZI L. , GROENEVELD E.
Published: November 2024

The authors performed variance component estimation on Hungarian pig breeds by means of the VCE 3.2 programme developed by Groeneveld (1993). Determination of h2 value was performed for four pure-bred types and two basic hybrid lines by the application of individual models. Two covariant variables, 5 fixed effects, one random (i.e., litter) and the characteristic effect were included in the models. The databases of the Hungarian operational individual performance examination (ÜSTV) and the central station examination (HVT) were used simultaneously by the programme in the estimation process. h2 values for two traits were estimated from the ÜSTV. Values between 0.14 and 0.33 were obtained for the trait relating to growth intensity, with a low degree of estimation error (between 2 and 8 %). In the case of mean back fat thickness, which serves as an expression of slaughter value, the h2 values estimated fell into the range 0.13 to 0.33, with a standard error of 2 to 13 %. The low h2 values obtained can be attributed to the so-termed confounding phenomenon, which occurs, through the mingling of the operational and the genetic effect, at genetically closed breeding sites. In the HVT h2 values for four traits were estimated. The heritability estimates obtained were the following: for the number of days of the fattening period, 0.24 - 0.46; for the quantity of diet consumed during the trial, 0.25 - 0.55; for the quantity of the valuable meat parts, 0.39 - 0.67; and for the meat quality points total, 0.04 - 0.21. Error in the heritability estimation varied between 3.0 and 24.8 % for the first three traits, and between 14.1 and 61.6 % for the fourth. Further estimations, founded on a larger database, are planned by the authors in an endeavour to provide an explanation for the differences in h2 value observed between breeds and genotypes.
CARCASS EVALUATION SYSTEMS IN THE EU
Authors: KALLWEIT E. , HENNING Martina
Published: November 2024

In order to obtain market transparency carcass classification in the EU has to be carried out according to regulations for different species. Besides the carcass weight objective measurements as a basis for the assessment of lean are available for pigs and partly for beef carcasses. Classification equipments for pigs are the same in various member states, but due to regional differences concerning breeds and consumer’s preferences different formulas are used to calculate lean content. Meat quality traits are not an integrated part of the payment system as yet. Subjective assessment by looking at conformation and fat coverage is applied for most of the beef and sheep carcasses in the member states. Poultry classification also considers hygienic quality of the carcass.
A ANALYSIS OF LEAN MEAT CONTENT IN SLAUGHTER PIGS IN SLOVENIA
Authors: KOVAČ Milena , MALOVRH Špela
Published: November 2024

Carcass grading was introduced in Slovenia in 1996 in larger slaughter houses. The method is based on loin fat thickness, loin muscle depth, and warm carcass weight. Altogether 535388 pigs were evaluated and slaughter protocols were sent to a central database. The data were used to evaluate lean meat contents for pigs slaughtered in Slovenia between June 1996 and June 1998. The results showed that lean meat content at given carcass weight increased over observed period. Breeders in general responded well to the system and are gradually adjusting to the new grading system by altering feeding regime and adopting new marketing rules.
ADAPTING THE MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS' QUALITY CONTROL TO THE DIRECTIVES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: GOLC TEGER Slavica
Published: November 2024

The article describes the quality parameters of milk and milk products. The quality of Slovene milk seen from the point of view of considering the European quality criteria stated in the EEC 92/46 directive is mentioned. Trends in the contemporary dairy analytics for raw milk quality evaluation are stressed. The system for the analitical quality assurance is described.
EFFECT OF DRY AND LIQUID BREAD FERMENTATION PRODUCTS ON UTILISATION OF NUTRIENTS IN PIGS
Authors: ŠTRUKLEC M. , SALOBIR J.
Published: November 2024

An experiment on twelve growing pigs (75.5 kg l.w.) individually penned in balance crates was conducted to evaluate the effect of two fermentation products as nutritional supplements on dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, crude ash and phosphorus digestibility and balance. Both products were obtained from the specific whole-meal bread, “Fermetgetreide-flüßig” (fermented bread product-liquid, FBP-liquid) and “Fermentgetreide-trocken” (fermented bread product-dry, FBP-dry) and supplemented either to the diet (15 g/kg) or to the water (10 ml/l). While FBP-dry supplementation significantly improved apparent digestibility of dry matter (+1.3 %), organic matter (+1.0 %) and crude protein (+2.6 %) the supplemetation with liquid fermentation product did not have a significant effect on measured parameters.
The system of dairy laboratories in Slovenia
Authors: GOLC TEGER Slavica
Published: November 2024

The dairy laboratory system in Slovenia is composed of different types of laboratories, depending on the purpose of testing and the requirements of the founders. This paper describes the operation of dairy laboratories and the basis of the functioning of the Laboratory for Dairying at the Biotechnical Faculty, in relation to other laboratories used for the quality control of raw milk in Slovenia. The system of analytical quality assurance is described as well as the determinations of laboratory testing performance; by means of proficiency testing and other inter laboratory comparisons. The achieving of quality criteria, ways of taking over the methods and criteria of quality requirements and connection to international institutions are also included. The system of official quality control of milk products running in Slovenia at the present time, by veterinary and public health laboratories, in addition to dairy laboratories, is also mentioned.
The expansion of dead-labour in connection with plant size in growing of fodder-plant
Authors: EMBER János , HORVÁTH Gyula
Published: November 2024

The land structure has been dramatically changed after the Second World War. Between the two world wars the Hungarian agriculture was half-feudal, 52 % of the population able to work lived on agriculture, 20 % of farms cultivated less than 2 ha, 30 % 12 ha and 14 % more than 2 000 ha. After the Second World War only 7 % of agricultural land was in private property, 70 % in cooperative and 12 % in state property, with an average size of 7, 3 600 and 7 600 ha. In the year 2 000 most of the agricultural land was in private property, where small farms with less than 1 ha predominated and only some of them owned around 100 ha. With regard to costs of use of machines of different capacity, a 50 ha farm appears to be the most appropriate.
The observation of the alteration in body composition of sheep during the growth of lambs by CT
Authors: LENGYEL Attila , MEZŐSZENTGYÖRGYI Dávid , KUPAI Tímea
Published: November 2024

Examination of the growth of three genotypes has been accomplished during our experiments. Both sexes have been examined in vivo at the body mass of 22, 30 and 38 kg by computer tomography (CT). It has been declared that the Suffolk has the smallest fat extension, while the Hungarian merino has the largest one. The fat deposition in ewe has been more extensive in every genotypes. The exactness of the estimation of fat tissue building is r2 = 0.5–0.8. The exactness of the estimation of muscle building equals to that of the fat tissue (r2 = 0.5–0.8). The exactness of the estimation (r2 = 0.2–0.8) on the basis of the CTIF index has shown great differences by genotypes. All of the rams of the three genotypes has bigger muscle and fat ratio than the ewes.
Growth rate and carcass traits in capons
Authors: TERČIČ Dušan , MALOVRH Špela , HOLCMAN Antonija
Published: November 2024

Thirty-nine capons and slips of Slovenian provenance barred Prelux (Prelux-G) and thirty-eight capons and slips of Slovenian autochthonous Styrian breed (partridge variation) were comprised in an experiment in order to compare their growth performance and carcass traits. Prelux-G cockerels were caponized at age eight weeks, and Styrian ones at age nine weeks. They were fattened in poultry houses with free range till age thirty-three weeks on three different locations (three breeders). Body masses between capons and slips did not differ significantly at any age. Prelux-G birds were heavier than capons and slips of Styrian breed. Carcass traits were measured on a sample of eight capons and seven slips of Prelux-G, and five capons and four slips of Styrian breed. Live mass before slaughter (LM), carcass mass (CM) and fatness (percentage of abdominal fat) in capons were significantly higher than in slips. Prelux-G animals achieved significantly higher LM, CM and dressing percentage in comparison with Styrian birds (P < 0.0001). Fatness did not differ significantly between breeds. Skin colour was significantly different in capons compared to slips in lightness (L), redness (a) and yellowness (b), while only redness differed between Prelux-G and Styrian breed.
Effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus on the growth of Aspergillus ochraceus and ochratoxin A production in yoghurt
Authors: ŠKRINJAR Marija , SEDEJ Ivana , PEŠIĆ-MIKULEC Dragana
Published: November 2024

The possibility of lowering the growth of ochratoxigenic mould Aspergillus ochraceus and synthesis of ochratoxin A (OA) by 4 % culture Lactobacillus acidophilus in yoghurt during milk fermentation, and then during the storage of yoghurt at 4, 25, 32 and 37 °C were investigated. Experiment lasted for 2, 4 and 6 days. A 4 % suspension of A.ochraceus was added to milk at the same time with L.acidophilus culture. It was noticed that the L.acidophilus has a large effect on lowering the growth of A.ochraceus and the synthesis of OA. A.ochraceus was growing at 4 °C in all time periods (5.8 × 103–5.1 × 105 cells ml–1) and at temperature of 25 °C for 2 days (7.6 × 102 cells ml–1). Under all other conditions the complete inhibition of growing A.ochraceus was noticed. OA was synthetised only at 25 °C after 4 days of growing A.ochraceus in yoghurt in concentration 400.00 μg l–1.
Current state and future perspectives of animal breeding
Authors: KOVAČ Milena , MALOVRH Špela
Published: November 2024

Breeding objectives and selection criteria have been frequently changed. In the past, changes were due to market changes, improvements of testing equipment and development of statistical methods. Nowadays, animal breeding must follow consumer requirements for environment protection, animal welfare, and human health. Economic weights are not the only guide for desired genetic trends. Many traits were re-defined and the others were included into genetic merit. A short review and future perspectives are given for assessment and evaluation of fattening and slaughter traits, reproduction, resistance and survival data as well as qualitative traits. Genetic evaluation require sophisticated software and support of powerful information system. More international cooperation is expected in animal breeding.
Model development for prediction of daily milk yield at alternating (AT) recording scheme
Authors: KLOPČIČ Marija , MALOVRH Špela , GORJANC Gregor , KOVAČ Milena , OSTERC Jože
Published: November 2024

The possibility to apply alternating (AT) recording scheme was studied on twelve farms in Gorenjska region between October 1998 and December 2000. Additionally to standard A4 records, milk yield at afternoon (PM) and morning (AM) milking was monitored. There were 4070 records collected and used for prediction of daily milk yield (DMY). The criteria for comparison of adjustment procedure were coefficient of determination and reduction of mean square error. Phenotypic correlation estimates between DMY and partial milk yields exceeded 0.97 and were significantly different from zero. The correlation coefficient between AM and PM milk yield was 0.901. Models including AM/PM milk yield and milking interval explained between 95.16 % in the simplest model 0 to 96.77 % for the most complex model Z.
APIIS support for Animal Group Recording
Authors: MALOVRH Špela , URANKAR Janja , KOVAČ Milena
Published: November 2024

Fattening keeps significant position in animal production due to its magnitude, as well as its financial effect. To control the herd and to achieve appropriate efficiency, animals in herd must be monitored during regular production. Data on growing and finishing animals are normally not collected individually, but for groups of animals, especially in small species. Methodology of APIIS (Adaptable Platform Independent Information System) was introduced to develop flexible module with uniform data structure for group recording in various livestock species. Pigs and rabbits were compared. Data streams and information processes were studied, and an entity-relational diagram and data dictionary were prepared. Data structure was created. Screen forms for entering the data for measurements from slaughter line and losses during fattening are represented. Differences among species are negligible, flexible APIIS data structure can cover specificity and the core data structure is not disrupted.
Morphological and molecular characterization of the elusive vegetative stage of the diatom Cerataulina
bicornis: a new record from Indian Sundarbans
Authors: Das Tapas , Choudhury Srijonee , Dutta Arun Kumar , Sarkar Neera Sen
Published: November 2024

The resting spore stage of Cerataulina bicornis has been reported sporadically from the Indian Sundarbans, with one sediment core record that dates back to ∼2000 yrs. BP, but its vegetative stage has remained elusive during this entire period. The present report of its vegetative stage is a new record from this estuarine system. A comprehensive morphometric description along with molecular data of rbcL and 18s rDNA of the vegetative stage of C. bicornis is presented. The morphological and morphometric characters observed in the light microscope (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies, along with a detailed description of the copulae, establish its distinction from other Cerataulina spp. described from different parts of the world.
Recent advances in laboratory education research
Authors: Agustian Hendra Y.
Published: November 2024

This review synthesizes recent advancements in laboratory education research in university chemistry over the past decade, from 2014 to 2024. It focuses on three key areas: evidence-oriented teaching practices, student learning outcomes and processes, and progressive curriculum development. The paper highlights the growing emphasis on evidence-based approaches to laboratory instruction, the multifaceted nature of student learning in the laboratory, and the importance of designing laboratory curricula that ensure progression and congruence across study programs. The review instantiates how evidence-oriented teaching practices have led to a shift in focus from theory to practical techniques. It explores the diverse learning outcomes associated with laboratory work, including experimental competencies, conceptual understanding, and affective aspects such as identity development and self-efficacy. The paper also introduces a comprehensive framework for assessing student learning in laboratories, integrating cognitive, conative, affective, psychomotor, social, and epistemic domains. Furthermore, the review examines approaches to curriculum development that emphasize scaffolding, progression, and alignment between various curricular elements. It presents models for developing experimental design competence and ensuring congruence in laboratory curriculum development. The paper concludes by acknowledging the persistent gap between research and practice in laboratory education and calling for continued efforts to bridge this divide.
Deeply buried clastic rock diagenesis evolution mechanism of Dongdaohaizi sag in the center of Junggar fault basin, Northwest China
Authors: Guo Shasha , Zhang Xuecai , Wang Jue , Wang Siwen , Liu Kemin , Wang Jinkai
Published: November 2024

To reveal the diagenetic sequence of reservoir rocks in the central part of the deep depression basin, the Wuerhe Formation in Junggar Basin was taken as an example to conduct the detailed studies on its sedimentary facies, diagenetic sequence, and the micropore structure evolution rules based on the comprehensive data from a super deep exploration well C-6 (approximately 7,000 m in depth). First, an arid environment fan delta sedimentary model of the Wuerhe Formation was established, and its sedimentary evolution law was clarified as a gradual transition from a fan delta front to a fan delta plain during the water-regression process until the lake dried up. Then, the diagenesis types and evolution sequence of the Wuerhe Formation, and the influence degrees of the compaction, cementation, and dissolution on the rock formation process were clarified. Finally, the diagenesis and pore evolution model was established, and the greatest impact factors of the late reservoir densification were clarified. Based on this research, the diagenesis and pore evolution processes of the deep rocks in the studied deep central sag were ultimately revealed to provide useful guidance for the deeply buried oil and gas reservoir exploration.
Modeling, optimization and operability analysis of Lurgi and Haldor Topsøe methanol synthesis reactors
Authors: Farsi Mohammad
Published: November 2024

In this research is focused on modeling, simulation and operability analysis of methanol synthesis reactors in the Lurgi and Haldor Topsøe methanol plants at steady state condition. In this regard, the tubular methanol synthesis reactors are mathematically modeled based on the laws of conservation of mass and energy considering interparticle resistance inside the commercial CuO–ZnO/Al2O3 catalyst. Then, the methanol productivity, carbon conversion, and thermal performance of both configurations are compared at the same weight hourly space velocity. The mole fraction of methanol in the outlet stream from Lurgi and Topsøe designed reactors are 9.08 and 9.71, respectively. In addition, the hotspot temperature in the Lurgi and Topsøe reactors are 278.8 and 267.7 °C based on the considered model, respectively. The carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide conversion in the Topsøe designed reactor are 8.95  and 4.89 % higher compared to the Lurgi reactor. Finally, a multi-objective optimization problem is programmed considering methanol production rate, carbon dioxide conversion and catalyst loading as objective functions and the optimal operating conditions and specifications of Topsøe reactor are obtained considering two different strategies. The simulation results show that applying the optimal conditions on the Topsøe designed reactor enhance the methanol productivity up to 16.04 %.
Unveiling human rights protection in China from the perspective of criminal procedure law
Authors: Hu Ming , Hong Tao
Published: November 2024

A significant portion of the misunderstanding surrounding China’s human rights protection stems from a failure to consider its legal progress in light of China’s unique cultural, ideological, and political contexts. The Criminal Procedure Law of China is closely linked to constitutional principles and the fundamental first generation of human rights, providing a clear framework for understanding China’s efforts in human rights protection. As widely accepted standards for human rights codification, Articles 9, 17, and 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) outline the right to personal liberty, privacy, and the defense of the accused. Initially, China’s Criminal Procedure Law of 1979 fell short of meeting these global standards. However, with substantial revisions in 1996, 2012, and 2018, this specific code has progressively aligned with the covenant’s requirements, marking significant strides in human rights protection in China. Despite these advances, there remains room for improving the Criminal Procedure Law, especially under the challenges of the digital age. China, alongside other nations, will focus on building a more comprehensive, robust, and globally integrated legal framework to address the forthcoming issues.
Liability regulation on short video platforms: balancing freedom of expression and copyright protection
Authors: Zhao Yun , Guo Yijin
Published: November 2024

The rise of short video platforms has fundamentally altered the balance between freedom of expression and copyright protection, challenging traditional legal frameworks like the Safe Harbor Principle. This paper critically examines the evolving legal landscape, with particular focus on the implications of Article 17 of the EU’s Copyright Directive in the Digital Single Market (DSM Directive), especially for small platforms, creators, and users. Through comparative analysis of international legal frameworks and case studies, the study delves into the challenges faced by stakeholders in navigating platform liability, algorithmic content moderation, and user rights. The research highlights how the existing legal environment, while aiming to protect copyright holders, often disproportionately favors large platforms, undermining the expressive freedoms and fair use rights of smaller creators and users. Furthermore, the paper addresses the role of remix culture on short video platforms, discussing how transformative works and user-generated content foster cultural diversity and innovation. It advocates for reforms that balance copyright enforcement with freedom of expression, promoting cooperative licensing models, nuanced content moderation, and expanded fair use exemptions to support a more equitable digital ecosystem where creativity, access, and protection coexist effectively.