bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immune reconstitution and associated infections following axicabtagene ciloleucel in relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Jennifer M. Logue  , Elisa Zucchetti  , Christina A. Bachmeier  , Gabriel S. Krivenko  , Victoria Larson  , Daniel Ninh  , Giovanni Grillo  , Biwei Cao  , Jongphil Kim  , Julio C. Chavez  , Aliyah Baluch  , Farhad Khimani  , Aleksandr Lazaryan  , Taiga Nishihori  , Hien D. Liu  , Javier Pinilla-Ibarz  , Bijal D. Shah  , Rawan Faramand  , Anna E. Coghill  , Marco L. Davila  , Bhagirathbhai R. Dholaria  , Michael D. Jain  , Frederick L. Locke
Published: April 2020

CD19 CAR T-cell therapy with axicabtagene ciloleucel (axi-cel) for relapsed or refractory (R/R) large B cell lymphoma (LBCL) may lead to durable remissions, however, prolonged cytopenias and infections may occur. In this single center retrospective study of 85 patients, we characterized immune reconstitution and infections for patients remaining in remission after axi-cel for LBCL. Prolonged cytopenias (those occurring at or after day 30 following infusion) were common with >= grade 3 neutropenia seen in 21/70 (30-0%) patients at day 30 and persisting in 3/31 (9-7%) patients at 1 year. B cells were undetectable in 30/34 (88-2%) patients at day 30, but were detected in 11/19 (57-9%) at 1 year. Median IgG levels reached a nadir at day 180. By contrast, CD4 T cells decreased from baseline and were persistently low with a median CD4 count of 155 cells/μl at 1 year after axi-cel (n=19, range 33 – 269). In total, 23/85 (27-1%) patients received IVIG after axi-cel, and 34/85 (40-0%) received G-CSF. Infections in the first 30 days occurred in 31/85 (36-5%) patients, of which 11/85 (12-9%) required intravenous antibiotics or hospitalization (“severe”) and were associated with cytokine release syndrome (CRS), neurotoxicity, tocilizumab use, corticosteroid use, and bridging therapy on univariate analyses. After day 30, 7 severe infections occurred, with no late deaths due to infection. Prolonged cytopenias are common following axi-cel therapy for LBCL and typically recover with time. Most patients experience profound and prolonged CD4 T cell immunosuppression without severe infection.
Assessing the Respect and Dignity for Human Life in the Nigerian Health Sector
Authors: Marcus Garvey Orji  , Felicia Onyenemerem
Published: April 2020

Human dignity is ‘an individual or group's sense of self-respect and self-worth, physical and psychological integrity and empowerment. The basis for the theme of Human dignity, is that humans were created in the image and likeness of God. Regardless of any factors or reasons we can think of, individuals have an inherent and immeasurable worth and dignity; each human life is considered sacred and must be respected. Thus, the health sector has the obligation of considering the ethical dimensions of the major determinants of human health, respect and dignity. The objective of this study is to examine the issues of respect and dignity for human life in the Nigerian health sector. The study is a survey research, and data was collected from both primary and secondary source, and analysed by simple percentages and tabulations. The result of the findings revealed that respect and dignity for human life in the Nigerian health sector is very necessary; promotion and protection of human rights and of health care are fundamentally linked; Nigerian health workers have not fared well in the area of respect for human dignity, and that Nigerian government policies and cultures have impeded the protection of rights and dignity of persons in the health sector. The study among others recommended the education and change of mentality through media of the Nigerian health workers on the need for respect and dignity of human life in the health care institutions, reformation of the health care sector, planning it in such a way that respect and dignity for human life will reflect in the centrality of the programme of reformation and activities.
Collection Development Variables and Utilization of Information Resources in University Libraries, South-South, Nigeria
Authors: Patience Owere EKPANG  , William Ofem. NKANU
Published: April 2020

This study investigated the relationship between collection development variables, and utilization of information resources in university libraries, south-south, Nigeria. To achieve the purpose of this study, two research questions were raised and two hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study was 16620 students and a sample of 800 respondents was awareness for the study. The awareness was done through the stratified and purposive random sampling technique. The results of the analyses revealed a significant relationship between awareness, acquisition and utilization of information resources. Based on these findings, it was recommended, among others that: Government should prioritize funding for the acquisition of information resources for university libraries
Evaluation of sperm motility and velocity of different genetic groups of bucks using Computer-Assisted Sperm Analyzer
Authors: Islam MR , Talukder MKU , Rahman MS , Husain SS
Published: April 2020

Semen quality assessment is a prime prerequisite for any breeding programme. Computer-Assisted Sperm Analyzer (CASA) can measure the semen quality very accurately and sharply. The research was conducted at American Dairy Limited (ADL) at Vangnahati, Sreepur, Gazipur. A total of 120 ejaculates were collected from three genetic groups of bucks namely Black Bengal (BB), Boer and Jamunapari (JP) with a view to characterize and compare the semen motility and velocity parameters using Computer- Assisted Sperm Analyser. Significantly (p<0.05) higher ejaculate volume was found in Boer buck (1.73±0.16 ml) with the lower in BB buck (0.98±0.14), respectively. But significantly (p<0.05) higher total, forward progressive and fast motility was found in BB (55.47±3.17, 47.23±2.74 and 37.62±2.40%) and lower in JP (40.67±3.37, 30.97±2.91 and 21.81±2.55%), respectively. Significantly (p<0.01) fastest straight line and average path distance was observed in Boer bucks (12.29±1.63 and 15.89±1.95 μm) than Black Bengal and Jamunapari bucks (4.38±1.19 and 7.26±1.57; and 3.14±1.27 and 8.42±1.95 μm), respectively. The distance curved line (DCL) and distance straight line (DSL) was significantly (p<0.05) higher in Boer (29.13±4.87, 12.29±1.63 and 15.89±1.95 _m/sec) and lower in BB (22.07±4.36 and 7.26±1.57 _m/sec), respectively. In case of curvilinear velocity, straight line velocity and average path velocity value was significantly (p<0.01) higher in Boer (127.08±13.88, 50.01±7.68 and 68.13±7.25 _m/sec) with lower in JP (62.01±12.77, 15.75±7.35 and 22.39±9.42) where as linearity and straightness was higher in Boer and lower in BB (p>0.05), respectively. The scrotal circumference had positive correlations with semen volume and curvilinear velocity for all the genotypes. It was concluded that semen of Boer bucks found consistently better than other two genetic groups of bucks. Further, competitive studies with large sample may be performed to evaluate the breed specific differences in available goat breeds. I think this study also disclosed the some rare parameters of semen quality by using Computer-Assisted Sperm Analyzer which was impossible in manually. These results of the present study could be an authentic guideline in future performance tests of different genetic groups of bucks.

Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2019. 48 (2): 67-74
Supplementation of natural minerals on the performance of broiler
Authors: Ahamed Z , Das SC , Dey B , Azad MR , Islam KMS
Published: April 2020

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of AZOMITE® as source of natural minerals on growth performance of commercial broiler. A total of 1,020 day-old Cobb 500 male broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 5 dietary treatments with 6 replications per treatment having 34 chicks in each pen. The five dietary treatments were: (i) basal diet without AZOMITE®, (ii) basal diet with 0.25% AZOMITE®, (iii) basal diet with 0.50% AZOMITE® which was recommended by manufacturer, (iv) basal diet with 0.75% AZOMITE® and (v) basal diet with 1.0% AZOMITE®. Broilers were reared in open-sided gable type house for a period of 32 days. Results showed that the supplementation of AZOMITE® had significant effect on growth performance (p<0.01) of broilers. Live body weight (LBW), body weight gain (BWG), average daily gain (ADG), feed intake (FI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), European efficiency factor (EEF) and gain cost of the birds fed various levels of AZOMITE® were significantly improved as compared to the control. Meat characteristics results indicated that the treatments had no significant effect on dressing percent, thigh, drumsticks and breast percentage among the dietary groups. Taken together, it may be concluded that the supplementation of AZOMITE® in commercial broiler at 0.50 to 1.0% improved live weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio of commercial broilers.

Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2019. 48 (2): 92-98
Privatization of Civil Justice: Is it Undermining or Promoting the Rule of Law?
Authors: Zoroska Kamilovska Tatjana
Published: April 2020

The crisis of civil justice system is present in many countries in the EU and worldwide and it takes different forms. In response, many different pathways are explored in order to overcome not only the growing sense of crisis, but also its manifestations. One of the suggested routes in the ongoing efforts to improve access to civil justice at the EU and national levels is the privatization of justice through the ADR mechanisms. In many areas, with the encouragement and support of governments and other policy-making bodies, the administration of justice is being encouraged to leave the courts for alternative forums. Thereby, the ADR are presented as mechanisms which are facilitating informal, fast, cost-effective and affordable access to justice, at the same time preserving public resources. Yet, in spite of these undeniable benefits, ADR mechanisms are subject of some doubts and expressed concerns.
One of the major concerns, which has already sparked a wider debate, is whether the informal and private nature of ADR is hostile to the Rule of Law and ultimately to justice itself. Namely, if the privatization of civil justice is considered in the context of the fundamental public commitment to provide substantive justice on an equal basis to all citizens, the question arises whether the ADR mechanisms are capable to secure and foster the virtues of the Rule of Law (publicity, transparency, fairness, equality, etc.).
The purpose of this paper is to contribute to this debate, renewing the interest in analysing the relationship between the privatization of civil justice and the concept of the Rule of Law. In the light of evolving social, economic and political circumstances, the paper attempts to answer the question whether the growing privatized dispute resolution landscape is undermining or promoting the rule of law.
Higher Education and Creation of Jobs in Bangladesh
Authors: Hassan M. M. Shahidul , Hassan Omiya
Published: April 2020

This study uses the data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, Bangladesh Economic Update, and Bangladesh Export Promotion Bureau to investigate the role of higher education in creating new jobs in Bangladesh. Every year about three million youths are entering job markets. But industry and service sectors do not develop much to provide jobs for such large youth job seekers. This challenge can be faced if universities produce graduates with high level skill and innovative quality. With such graduates Bangladesh can create knowledge-based society and more opportunities will be created for them to get jobs in global markets, and graduates can be successful as entrepreneurs and self-employed workforce. Such dispositions demand changes in curricular, teaching and assessment methods to function young generation as active learners and creators. A simple economic model is used to study the relationship between per capita Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the three economic sectors, namely agriculture, industry and services sectors for Bangladesh. Using available data both correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis are used to examine the relationship between the dependent variable and the independent variables in the study. The results of this study have implications for economic development policy in Bangladesh.
Career Decision-Making Profiles of Adolescents in Cyprus
Authors: Vasoula Georgallidou , Loucia Dimitriou
Published: April 2020

The purpose of the present study is to examine the career decision-making profile of the adolescent students of the public high schools of Cyprus by applying the Career Decision-Making Profiles (CDMP) questionnaire of Gati, Landman, Davidovitch, Peretz-Asulin, & Gadassi (2010). The development of the CDMP suggests that an individual’s career decision making process can be better described by a multidimensional profile instead of a single decision-making style or a dominant characteristic. Using the data of 421 students, who were about to make a career choice, the results of the survey revealed eight dimensions for the Greek-Cypriot version of CDMP scale. The findings construct a multidimensional profile characterization of an individual’s career decision making processes: (1) “Information gathering and processing-Effort invested in the process”, (2) “Desire to please others-Dependence on others”, (3) “Speed of making the final decision”, (4) “Consulting with others”, (5) “Aspiration for an ideal occupation”, (6) “Locus of control”, (7) “Willingness to compromise”, (8) “Procrastination”. Using the T-test, we will discuss significant gender differences in the eight dimensions of the CDMP.
Decision-Making between Online and Frontal EFL Courses
Authors: Schoenfeld Bethe , Zeid Samia , Liberman Ido
Published: April 2020

This research provides an understanding of how Western Galilee College (WGC) students decided which course delivery format to take i.e., online self-access learning vs. face-to-face (F2F) for a mandatory academic English course. The current study investigated the compatibility or incompatibility of the online course initiatives to the students’ decision-making behaviours. For the study, interviews as well as a questionnaire before the final department-wide exam were utilized. Moreover, information concerning learning outcomes (final course grades) for all students registered in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) courses was received from the WGC IT department. In general, the study found that WGC students emphasized the technical aspects (price, convenience, flexibility) instead of the essential aspects of the course (personalization, quality of learning, success in the course) in choosing a virtual course over a F2F format. Additionally, in the selection process, these students did not consider the uniqueness of an English course (as a language course) and its relative lack of suitability in the virtual format. Moreover, the students did not rely on professional consultation to weigh the suitability of the online course for them. Finally, students’ grades at the end of the English course were remarkably lower in the online course than in the traditional courses. Based on the evidence presented, it can be concluded that language classes are not always suitable for an online delivery platform. The results of this research will have ramifications as to how to tailor future English courses to the students’ learning needs.
Factors Influencing Innovation Adoption in a Higher Education Institution
Authors: Haupt Sanet , Antonites Alex
Published: April 2020

Accelerated skills development and an unconditional pursuit to enhance competencies on numerous levels are two key physiognomies of the post-recession phase of 2008 in South Africa. The research was informed by a contextual perspective, and relied on interpretive, constructivist epistemology to reveal these phenomena. The primary research question driving this qualitative study was to analysis the concept of innovation adoption within a HE context, factors impacting on the adoption process, and the relationships between the identified phenomena, without explaining the reasons behind these relationships. This study could serve to inform and focus such policies and paradigms or direct further research. Recognizing and rewarding innovation adoption in the institution could be extended and enhanced.Case Study و
Determining Learning Techniques by Using Artificial Intelligence and Observing the Impacts of Differentiated Education Model
Authors: Ceylin Büyüksoy  , Zeynep Taşcıoğlu  , İbrahim Ergin
Published: April 2020

It is fundamental for students to be aware of how they acquire knowledge from resources in the constantly evolving and changing world. The three most practical senses in learning environments are sight, hearing and touch. The VAK model categorizes these sensory methods of learning as Visual (V), Auditory (A) and Kinesthetic (K) learning styles. In the 21st century, it is inevitable to avoid the use of technology in education. Using ways and technical methods of technology in the classroom enables teachers and students to find the new conclusion of daily life problems. It helps in education to create a better educational syllabus, learning material, and future products and services. As a conclusion, we have focused on learning techniques by a specific software that we have written in collaboration with a computer programmer. By this software, the learning technique of each student will be analyzed by means of online tests to be performed. At the end of the day, the learning style of each student will be particularly understood.After the development of the software, which will last around 3 months, we will introduce the new system to the students. Having finalized the test period, we will measure the success rate of students in their lessons compared to traditional learning. In this article, the relation between the effects of differentiated education on academic achievement with the learning skills of students classified by artificial intelligence will be studied.
Hyperbilirubinemia Decreases Physiological Markers in Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis
Authors: BAUEROVA K. , DRAFI F. , KUNCIROVA V. , PONIST S. , MIHALOVA D. , BABAL P. , SYKORA T.
Published: April 2020

There is evidence that a higher serum level of bilirubin (BIL) may be a protective factor for autoimmune diseases. We examined the effect of BIL supplementation in adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) where oxidative stress, inflammation and inadequate immune response are present. Male Lewis rats were randomized into groups: CO – control, AIA – untreated adjuvant-induced arthritis, AIA-BIL – adjuvant-induced arthritis administrated BIL (200 mg/kg b.w. daily i.p. during 14 days). Change of hind paw volume in the AIA-BIL group in comparison to the AIA group was significantly decreased after BIL administration. In CO and AIA groups we found almost untraceable levels of BIL. In the AIA-BIL group hyperbilirubinemia was observed. BIL administration significantly decreased plasma levels of C-reactive protein and ceruloplasmin in the AIA-BIL group in comparison to the AIA group. The values of white and red blood cells, hemoglobin and hematocrit were significantly decreased in AIA-BIL after BIL supplementation. Organs like spleen and thymus had a lower weight in AIA-BIL than in AIA. Histological findings showed decreased or even absent damage in hind paw joint of AIA-BIL animals. We observed an immunomodulatory effect of BIL on AIA development, which may also have a novel pharmacological impact.
Illegally Blonde: The Racialisation of Blondness and Visual Representations of Palestinian Activist Ahed Tamimi in American and Canadian Media
Authors: Wang Kuan-Yun
Published: April 2020

Informed by theories of media representation, Orientalism, and settler colonialism, this research endeavours to contribute to the discussion on the impact of media representation within a specific political context. It intends to reveal the power dimensions and ideological positions embedded in dominant media discourses in North America. Five news videos, three from Canadian, and two from American online daily media sources, are selected carefully during December 2017 and July 2018 when the Israeli army arrested Ahed Tamimi. In terms of methodologies, adopts Chouliaraki's (2011) multimodality model to analyse the visual and semiotic choices made by the news editors and draws on Fairclough's (1995) conception of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) for its contextual analysis. The findings suggest that through different discursive and representational strategies, the media frame Tamimi and the Palestinians as violent initiators. Moreover, Tamimi's blondness and her ‘Western’ look are marked as ‘fake’ and ‘propaganda’, thus establishing the new norm of representing ‘Otherness’. These strategies echo accepted values in American and Canadian societies and their foreign policies in the past decade. The results also achieve the purpose of legitimising the use of state violence on colonised bodies, which ultimately reflects settler-colonial history in North America.
Engaging in Popular Communal Imagination and the Holy Week Culture in Malta: Emancipatory Thinking and the Holy Land/Jerusalem Narrative
Authors: Grech Michael , Mayo Peter
Published: April 2020

This paper derives its impetus from a project of community learning centring on a Holy Land narrative that captures the imagination in many parts of Southern Europe, including the community and country in question. The focus is the series of activities surrounding Holy Week in the Roman Catholic calendar and the country in question is Malta. This article sheds light on the politics of the event or, more accurately, the relationship of Holy Week and politics primarily in Malta but also in several parts of Southern Europe, most notably Spain, well known for its Semana Santa activities. Reference will be made to Malta, Italy, Egypt and Spain in pursuit of an emancipatory reading of the Jerusalem/Palestine narrative, drawing inspiration from Liberation Theology, Postcolonial theory and Emancipatory Pedagogy.
Palestinian Diaspora Communities in Latin America and Palestinian Statehood
Authors: Aljamal Yousef M. , Amour Philipp O.
Published: April 2020

There are some 700,000 Latin Americans of Palestinian origin, living in fourteen countries of South America. In particular, Palestinian diaspora communities have a considerable presence in Chile, Honduras, and El Salvador. Many members of these communities belong to the professional middle classes, a situation which enables them to play a prominent role in the political and economic life of their countries. The article explores the evolving attitudes of Latin American Palestinians towards the issue of Palestinian statehood. It shows the growing involvement of these communities in Palestinian affairs and their contribution in recent years towards the wide recognition of Palestinian rights — including the right to self-determination and statehood — in Latin America. But the political views of members of these communities also differ considerably about the form and substance of a Palestinian statehood and on the issue of a two-states versus one-state solution.
Dynamics of Cohomological Expanding Mappings I : First and Second Main Results
Authors: AZONNAHIN ARMAND
Published: April 2020

Let $f:\Vc \longrightarrow \Vc $ be a Cohomological Expanding Mapping\footnote{cf Definition \ref{exp}.} of a smooth complex compact homogeneous manifold with $ dim_{\mathbb{C}}(\Vc)=k \ge 1$ and Kodaira Dimension $\leq 0$. We study the dynamics of such mapping from a probabilistic point of view, that is, we describe the asymptotic behavior of the orbit $ O_{f} (x) = \{f^{n} (x), n \in \mathbb{N} \quad \mbox{or}\quad \mathbb{Z}\}$ of a generic point. Using pluripotential methods, we construct a natural invariant canonical probability measure of maximum Cohomological Entropy $ \mu_{f} $ such that ${\chi_{2l}^{-m}} (f^m)^\ast \Omega \to \mu_f \qquad \mbox{as} \quad m\to\infty$ for each smooth probability measure $\Omega $ on $\Vc$ . Then we study the main stochastic properties of $ \mu_{f}$ and show that $ \mu_{f}$ is a measure of equilibrium, smooth, ergodic, mixing, K-mixing, exponential-mixing and the unique measure with maximum Cohomological Entropy.
Practical Grammar Compression Based on Maximal Repeats
Authors: Furuya Isamu , Takagi Takuya , Nakashima Yuto , Inenaga Shunsuke , Bannai Hideo , Kida Takuya
Published: April 2020

This study presents an analysis of RePair, which is a grammar compression algorithm known for its simple scheme, while also being practically effective. First, we show that the main process of RePair, that is, the step by step substitution of the most frequent symbol pairs, works within the corresponding most frequent maximal repeats. Then, we reveal the relation between maximal repeats and grammars constructed by RePair. On the basis of this analysis, we further propose a novel variant of RePair, called MR-RePair, which considers the one-time substitution of the most frequent maximal repeats instead of the consecutive substitution of the most frequent pairs. The results of the experiments comparing the size of constructed grammars and execution time of RePair and MR-RePair on several text corpora demonstrate that MR-RePair constructs more compact grammars than RePair does, especially for highly repetitive texts.
A Systematic Literature Review on Existing Digital Government Architectures: State-of-the-Art, Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: Baheer Baseer Ahmad , Lamas David , Sousa Sónia
Published: April 2020

System architecture plays a crucial role in the establishment of Digital Government infrastructure. Over recent decades, various architectures have been introduced by scholars for the establishment of Digital Government infrastructure. However, there is no uniform agreement on Digital Government architecture concepts required for Digital Government infrastructure. To more thoroughly examine the Digital Government architecture introduced in this article, we collected 103 papers published between 2003 and 2020 retrieved from five leading literature databases. To conduct our research, we followed best practice scholarly accepted guidelines for researchers. Per the guidelines, we formulated research questions and employed an approach based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to meet our research goals. Our study found evidence that there is a lack of knowledge in terms of the state-of-the-art in Digital Government infrastructure and its challenges concerning existing Digital Government architectures. We identified a set of primary Digital Government architecture characteristics and building blocks on which the Digital Government infrastructures are built. These components are meant to improve the design of future Digital Government systems and applications. Furthermore, our research revealed a need for designing a reference architecture to provide government organizations with the best practice knowledge of already existing Digital Government architectures.
Influence of Electromagnetic Stimulation of Seeds on the Photosynthetic Indicators in Medicago sativa L. Leaves at Various Stages of Development
Authors: Dziwulska-Hunek Agata , Kornarzyńska-Gregorowicz Agnieszka , Niemczynowicz Agnieszka , Matwijczuk Arkadiusz
Published: April 2020

The paper explores the impact of electromagnetic stimulation of Ulstar alfalfa seeds on fresh mass yield, the quantum efficiency of the plants’ photochemical reactions, and the content of photosynthetic pigments in leaves. Before sowing, seeds were subjected to electromagnetic stimulation in the following configurations: control (C), no stimulation; stimulation with He–Ne laser light with the wavelength of 632.8 nm, surface power density of 3 mW·cm−2 and exposition time of 1 min (L1) or 5 min (L5); stimulation with alternating magnetic field with the induction of 30 mT and exposition time of 1 min (F1) or 5 min (F5). It was established that the variability of alfalfa yields at the onset of anthesis was dependent on weather conditions as well as, above all, on the electromagnetic stimulation employed. At the same time, the values of fresh mass yield of alfalfa and photosynthetic efficiency were higher in the first year of cultivation (2014) compared to the last year (2016). In terms of photosynthetic efficiency, the best results were observed for L1 and F5, respectively: 0.801 and 0.800. The significantly highest values in terms of chlorophyll a and b and carotenoid content were observed in 2014 at the onset of budding in the combination involving alternating magnetic field stimulation (F5), and were, respectively, 30%, 28% and 73% relative to the control.
Establishment of a Cultivation Mode of Glycine soja, the Bridge of Phytoremediation and Industrial Utilization
Authors: Xu Zongchang , Ren Tingting , Marowa Prince , You Xiangwei , Lu Xueli , Li Yiqiang , Zhang Chengsheng
Published: April 2020

Soil salinity is a growing challenge for today’s agriculture. It is one of the most brutal abiotic factors limiting crop productivity globally. Millions of hectares of agricultural land throughout the world are too saline to produce economic crop yields and the area affected by salt accumulation is increasing day by day. Saline soils could however be a potential land resource with utilization value under the process of phytoremediation. Wild soybean (Glycine soja) is a salt-tolerant plant widely used in the cosmetic and pharmaceuticals industries as well as in crop improvement programs. This crop shows potential value for saline soil phytoremediation. However, due to its procumbent growth habit, accumulation of biomass is reduced and consequently reducing its value in phytoremediation. In this study, artificial facilities were used to make wild soybeans grow upright. Compared to the control plants, which yielded 1629.74 kg/ha of seed and 6075.76 kg/ha above ground biomass, erect wild soybean plants yielded 2608.10 kg/ha of seed and 10,286.40 kg/ha of above ground biomass (dry weight). The potential phytoremediation ability of wild soybean was also studied. The wild soybean could absorb up to 264.57 kg soluble salt/ha/year with an average of 25.72‰ salt content. The soluble salt content in the wild soybean rhizosphere was 1.50‰ higher than that in the bulk soil, suggesting that the rhizosphere of wild soybean can enrich soluble salt. The K–Na ratio of seed, leaf, shoot, and capsule were all greater than 1 suggesting that the wild soybean has a good salt tolerance capacity. Additionally, the bioaccumulation factor (BF) value of Na in roots was >1 suggesting that the root of wild soybean was the main organ for Na+ storage and suitable for Na phytostabilization. Furthermore, wild soybean could be potentially play an important role in Ca and Mg phytostabilization due to their corresponding BF values, which were greater than 1 in different organs. In other words, the establishment of a cultivation mode of wild soybean, as demonstrated in this study, will be a bridge towards phytoremediation of saline soils and better industrial utilization of the crop.
Effects of Planting Date for Soybean Growth, Development, and Yield in the Southern USA
Authors: Bateman Nick R. , Catchot Angus L. , Gore Jeff , Cook Don R. , Musser Fred R. , Irby J. Trent
Published: April 2020

As fluctuating commodity prices change the agriculture landscape on a yearly basis, soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) has become the predominant crop in the southern USA, accounting for 65 percent of the total row crop production in the state. To accommodate increased soybean production, planting dates have expanded, spanning from late March through July. To determine the impact of this expanded planting window on soybean development and yield, field experiments were conducted at Starkville and Stoneville, MS, in 2013 and 2014. Treatments included seven planting dates ranging from 25 March to 15 July and two soybean cultivars (one Maturity Group IV and one Maturity Group V cultivar). These studies were conducted in irrigated high––yielding environments. Experimental units were sampled weekly for insect pests and insecticides were applied when populations exceeded the levels at which applications were recommended. Planting date had a significant impact on crop development, plant height, canopy closure, and yield. As planting date was delayed, the time required for crop development decreased from 122 total days for plantings on 25 March to 83 days for plantings on 15 July. For plantings after 2 June, plant height decreased by 1.1 cm per day. Canopy closure decreased by 1.01% per day after 27 May. Soybean yield decreased 26.7 kg/ha per day when soybean was planted after 20 April. This research demonstrates the importance of early planting dates for soybean producers in the southern US to ensure profitability by maximizing yield potential.
Paecilomyces variotii as A Plant-Growth Promoter in Horticulture
Authors: Moreno-Gavíra Alejandro , Diánez Fernando , Sánchez-Montesinos Brenda , Santos Mila
Published: April 2020

In the present study, P. variotii, an endophytic fungus isolated from plant roots from the Cabo de Gata Natural Park (Parque Nacional Cabo de Gata—Spain), was tested to determine the effect on the growth promotion of tomato and pepper seeds and seedlings. For these purposes, germination trials in a laboratory and two experiments in a commercial nursery and greenhouse conditions were performed. The P. variotii isolate has shown a high ability to produce siderophores and IAA, but low ability to solubilize P. High values for germination percentage, seedling vigor, root and shoot length were obtained by P. variotii on tomato and pepper against control. P. variotii applications resulted in improved most of the growth parameters evaluated, for both horticultural crops, with the best results in the development of pepper seedlings. The application of a higher dose of P. variotii improved most of the morphological parameters and the Dickson quality index (DQI) value in tomato in seedlings and plants. The establishment of the endophytic fungus at the root enabled its biostimulant effects to persist after transplantation without any additional application. Few studies have analyzed this species as a biostimulant. The positive results from the tests showed its high potential. The application of this isolate can be of enormous benefit to horticultural crops for its high reproductive and establishment capacity.
Characterization of the Transverse Distribution of Fertilizer in Coffee Plantations
Authors: Andrade Alan Delon , Araújo e Silva Ferraz Gabriel , Machado de Barros Murilo , De Oliveira Faria Rafael , Moreira da Silva Fábio , Sarri Daniele , Vieri Marco
Published: April 2020

Considering the impact of fertilizers on coffee production costs, the search for greater efficiency in the use of these inputs has an important role. Accordingly, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the transverse distribution of fertilizer by a centrifugal spreader in a coffee plantation and to compare two operating modes: fertilizer application on one side (FA1), or both sides (FA2) of the coffee plants. In addition, three doses (200, 300 and 400 kg ha−1) of monoammonium phosphate and three spreading disk rotation speeds (240, 375 and 750 rpm) were tested. To characterize fertilizer distribution profiles, collectors were placed under the canopy of coffee plants, and the collected fertilizer was weighed. From the data obtained, distribution profile histograms were constructed, and coefficients of variation were calculated for each treatment. Distribution profiles with higher uniformity were related to the morphologic characteristics of the coffee plants. Regarding the operating modes evaluated, FA1 presented better results with a disk rotation speed of 750 rpm (FA1-W3); FA2 produced the best results with a disk rotation speed of 240 rpm. By relating these results with information on root morphology, FA1-W3 was found to be the most appropriate application method.
Deep Phenotyping of Yield-Related Traits in Wheat
Authors: Prey Lukas , Schmidhalter Urs
Published: April 2020

The complex formation of grain yield (GY) is related to multiple dry matter (DM) traits; however, due to their time-consuming determination, they are not readily accessible. In winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), both agronomic treatments and genotypic variation influence GY in interaction with the environment. Spectral proximal sensing is promising for high-throughput non-destructive phenotyping but was rarely evaluated systematically for dissecting yield-related variation in DM traits. Aiming at a temporal, spectral and organ-level optimization, 48 vegetation indices were evaluated in a high-yielding environment in 10 growth stages for the estimation of 31 previously compared traits related to GY formation—influenced by sowing time, fungicide, N fertilization, and cultivar. A quantitative index ranking was evaluated to assess the stage-independent index suitability. GY showed close linear relationships with spectral vegetation indices across and within agronomic treatments (R2 = 0.47–0.67 ***). Water band indices, followed by red edge-based indices, best used at milk or early dough ripeness, were better suited than the widely used normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). Index rankings for many organ-level DM traits were comparable, but the relationships were often less close. Among yield components, grain number per spike (R2 = 0.24–0.34 ***) and spike density (R2 = 0.23–0.46 ***) were moderately estimated. GY was mainly estimated by detecting total DM rather than the harvest index. Across agronomic treatments and cultivars, seasonal index rankings were the most stable for GY and total DM, whereas traits related to DM allocation and translocation demanded specific index selection. The results suggest using indices with water bands, near infrared/red edge and visible light bands to increase the accuracy of in-season spectral phenotyping for GY, contributing organ-level traits, and yield components, respectively.
A Rice Model System for Determining Suitable Sowing and Transplanting Dates
Authors: Wu Yueting , Qiu Xiaolei , Zhang Ke , Chen Zhiliang , Pang Alexis , Tian Yongchao , Cao Weixing , Liu Xiaojun , Zhu Yan
Published: April 2020

Sowing and transplanting dates are important cultivation factors for rice production. Therefore, the present study focused on developing a rice model system that would be able to determine sowing and transplanting dates for diverse cultivars and planting methods in different agro-ecological zones. Different model parameters were integrated into a rice model system on the basis of their interaction effects in this study. The results showed that sowing and transplanting dates designed by the rice model system were approached to the planting dates recommended by local agricultural experts for high yield practices, with root mean squared error (RMSE) of 5.3 to 14.74 days. The model system accurately simulated suitable sowing and transplanting dates under most scenarios with relatively low RMSE, high linear correlation coefficient (R2), and model efficiency (EF). Using the model system recommendations, rice yield under manual transplanting in low fertility soil was increased the most (5.5%), while for direct sowing in high fertility soil, yield increase was modest (0.8%). The newly-developed rice model system can act as a technical approach to design suitable sowing and transplanting dates for achieving high yield and effective crop production.
Innovative Pro-Smallholder Farmers’ Permanent Mulch for Better Soil Quality and Food Security Under Conservation Agriculture
Authors: Mgolozeli Sibongiseni , Nciizah Adornis D. , Wakindiki Isaiah I. C. , Mudau Fhatuwani N.
Published: April 2020

Soil degradation is the greatest threat to agricultural production globally. The practice of applying or retaining crop residues in the field as mulch is imperative to prevent soil erosion, maintain soil quality and improve crop productivity. However, smallholder farmers resort to maximizing profit by removing crop residues after harvest to sell or use them as feed for livestock. Agrimats are innovative pro-smallholder farming mulching materials that are manufactured using cheap or freely available organic waste materials. These materials include forestry waste, grasses, etc., therefore allowing smallholder farmers to make more profit through improved crop productivity for better food security. The most notable attributes of agrimats include their ability to prevent soil erosion, increase and sustain soil organic matter, suppress weeds, and conserve soil moisture. Food security challenge can be addressed by adopting agrimat technology as a sustainable permanent soil cover to improve soil quality and crop productivity. Agrimat incorporation in conservation agriculture practice could produce more food from less input resources (chemical fertilizers, water, etc.) with minimal or no adverse effect on the environment. This study aims to advocate permanent soil cover using agrimat as an innovative pro-smallholder farmer technology to improve soil quality for better food security.
Milk Composition of Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus) in a Natural Environment in Myanmar during Late Lactation
Authors: Dierenfeld Ellen S. , Han Yadana A. M. , Mar Khyne U. , Aung Aung , Soe Aung Thura , Lummaa Virpi , Lahdenperä Mirkka
Published: April 2020

The nutritional content of milk from free-living Asian elephants has not previously been reported, despite being vital for better management of captive populations. This study analyzed both milk composition and consumed plant species of Asian elephants managed in their natural environment in Myanmar. Longitudinal samples (n = 36) were obtained during both the wet and the dry season from six mature females in mid to late lactation in 2016 and 2017. Milk composition averaged 82.44% water, with 17.56% total solids containing 5.23% protein, 15.10% fat, 0.87% ash, and 0.18 µg/mL vitamin E. Solids and protein increased with lactation month. Total protein in milk was higher during the wet vs. the dry season. Observed factors linked with maternal (age, parity, size and origin) and calf traits (sex) had significant associations with milk nutrient levels. Primary forages consumed contained moderate protein and fiber. Higher dietary protein during the wet season (11–25%) compared to the dry season (6–19%) may be linked with increased milk protein observed. Our results call for further field studies of milk and diet composition, over entire seasons/lactation periods, and across maternal and calf traits, to improve feeding management, with an overall goal of maximized health and survival.
Quality of Eggs, Concentration of Lysozyme in Albumen, and Fatty Acids in Yolk in Relation to Blue Lupin-Rich Diet and Production Cycle
Authors: Kowalska Emilia , Kucharska-Gaca Joanna , Kuźniacka Joanna , Lewko Lidia , Gornowicz Ewa , Biesek Jakub , Adamski Marek
Published: April 2020

In recent years, the interest in lupin seeds as a source of protein in poultry nutrition has increased. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of table eggs produced by hens that were fed diets containing pea seeds and various levels of narrow-leafed lupin as a substitute for soybean meal. The share of lupin seeds in the treatment groups was 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%. Egg morphology, the fatty acid profile in egg yolk and the amount and activity of lysozyme in egg white were analysed. Results show that using 10–20% lupin seeds in feed in the diet of laying hens in intensive farming does not result in a change in weight or egg structure, their physical properties or their morphological composition. Increasing the share of lupin seeds in feed for laying hens increases the saturation of the colour of egg yolks, which is a desirable feature among consumers. The use of lupin seeds in feed for laying hens does not adversely affect the chemical properties of egg proteins, as expressed by the amount and activity of lysozyme. In feed for laying hens, replacing soybean meal with lupin seeds has a positive effect on the fatty acid profile in egg yolk (omega-3 and -6 polyunsaturated acids and hypocholesterolemic acids).
Pharmacokinetics of Macrolide Antibiotics and Transport into the Interstitial Fluid: Comparison among Erythromycin, Clarithromycin, and Azithromycin
Authors: Kobuchi Shinji , Kabata Teruhiko , Maeda Koki , Ito Yukako , Sakaeda Toshiyuki
Published: April 2020

Recent research has found higher levels and longer total exposure of azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic agent, in the interstitial fluid of the skin than in the plasma. This unique distribution is expected to contribute to its antimicrobial activity at the primary infection site. However, it remains unclear whether this characteristic distribution in the extracellular tissue space is common to macrolide antibiotics or if it is azithromycin-specific, with most macrolides largely localized intracellularly. In this study, we investigated pharmacokinetic characteristics of erythromycin and clarithromycin in the interstitial fluid of the skin of rats after intravenous drug administration, and compared the results with our previously reported results on azithromycin. Interstitial fluid samples were directly collected from a pore on the skin using a dissolving microneedle array. We found that the total macrolide concentrations in the interstitial fluid were significantly different among three macrolides. The rank order of the interstitial fluid-plasma concentration ratio was azithromycin (3.8 to 4.9) > clarithromycin (1.2 to 1.5) > erythromycin (0.27 to 0.39), and this ratio was stable after dosing, whereas higher drug levels in the skin tissue than in the plasma were observed for all three macrolides. Our results suggest that lower erythromycin concentrations in the interstitial fluid than in the plasma contributes to the emergence of bacterial resistance in the extracellular tissue space. Monitoring of total macrolide concentrations in interstitial fluid may provide valuable information regarding antimicrobial effects and the emergence of bacterial resistance for the development of an appropriate pharmacokinetics–pharmacodynamics-based dosing strategy.
Investigating Bacteriophages Targeting the Opportunistic Pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Styles Kathryn M. , Thummeepak Rapee , Leungtongkam Udomluk , Smith Sophie E. , Christie Gabrielle S. , Millard Andrew , Moat John , Dowson Christopher G. , Wellington Elizabeth M. H. , Sitthisak Sutthirat , Sagona Antonia P.
Published: April 2020

The multi-drug resistance of the opportunistic pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii is of growing concern, with many clinical isolates proving to be resistant to last resort as well as front line antibiotic treatments. The use of bacteriophages is an attractive alternative to controlling and treating this emerging nosocomial pathogen. In this study, we have investigated bacteriophages collected from hospital wastewater in Thailand and we have explored their activity against clinical isolates of A. baumannii. Bacteriophage vB_AbaM_PhT2 showed 28% host range against 150 multidrug resistant (MDR) isolates and whole genome sequencing did not detect any known virulence factors or antibiotic resistance genes. Purified vB_AbaM_PhT2 samples had endotoxin levels below those recommended for preclinical trials and were not shown to be directly cytotoxic to human cell lines in vitro. The treatment of human brain and bladder cell lines grown in the presence of A. baumannii with this bacteriophage released significantly less lactate dehydrogenase compared to samples with no bacteriophage treatment, indicating that vB_AbaM_PhT2 can protect from A. baumannii induced cellular damage. Our results have also indicated that there is synergy between this bacteriophage and the end line antibiotic colistin. We therefore propose bacteriophage vB_AbaM_PhT2 as a good candidate for future research and for its potential development into a surface antimicrobial for use in hospitals.
Antibiotics and Environment
Authors: Alduina Rosa
Published: April 2020

Since the discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928, the use of antibiotics has become the golden standard in the treatment of bacterial infections of all kinds [...]