What kind of formation in the multiethnic culture of the European Union of the third millennium?

Even though occidental food production and control systems guarantee a reasonable level of safety for consumers, western countries are facing a growing phenomenon of immigration from all over the world. With this enrichment and the shuffling of cultures and customs in the same places, even alimentary habits undergo an unavoidable evolution, also influencing the commercial trends of society. The growing demand for ethnic products, often of uncertain provenance, composition and manufacturing, has motivated the appearance of illegal trade and markets or improper local productions besides the legal ones, implying a rise in hygienic risks for the consumers. These underground realities, together with the unfilled gap that still exists between different cultures and customs cause significant difficulties in carrying out efficient controls to guarantee sanitary safety for consumers. For this reason, the risks associated with this increasing globalization must be faced with proper information and a decisive formative strategy must be divided, in order to allow the operator of the whole system and control employees to be acquainted about different raw materials, manufacturing systems, alimentary habits, languages for communication and commercial dynamics which stand beyond the new alimentary trends.     

Interactions between TGFβ1 and cyclic strain in modulation of myofibroblastic differentiation of canine mitral valve interstitial cells in 3D culture

ObjectivesThe mechanisms of myxomatous valve degeneration (MVD) are poorly understood. Transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGFβ1) induces myofibroblastic activation in mitral valve interstitial cells (MVIC) in static 2D culture, but the roles of more physiological 3D matrix and cyclic mechanical strain are unclear. In this paper, we test the hypothesis that cyclic strain and TGFβ1 interact to modify MVIC phenotype in 3D culture.Animals, materials and methodsMVIC were isolated from dogs with and without MVD and cultured for 7 days in type 1 collagen hydrogels with and without 5 ng/ml TGFβ1. MVIC with MVD were subjected to 15% cyclic equibiaxial strain with static cultures serving as controls. Myofibroblastic phenotype was assessed via 3D matrix compaction, cell morphology, and expression of myofibroblastic (TGFβ3, alpha-smooth muscle actin – αSMA) and fibroblastic (vimentin) markers.ResultsExogenous TGFβ1 increased matrix compaction by canine MVIC with and without MVD, which correlated with increased cell spreading and elongation. TGFβ1 increased αSMA and TGFβ3 gene expression, but not vimentin expression, in 15% cyclically stretched MVIC. Conversely, 15% cyclic strain significantly increased vimentin protein and gene expression, but not αSMA or TGFβ3. 15% cyclic strain however was unable to counteract the effects of TGFβ1 stimulation on MVIC.ConclusionsThese results suggest that TGFβ1 induces myofibroblastic differentiation (MVD phenotype) of canine MVIC in 3D culture, while 15% cyclic strain promotes a more fibroblastic phenotype. Mechanical and biochemical interactions likely regulate MVIC phenotype with dose dependence. 3D culture systems can systematically investigate these phenomena and identify their underlying molecular mechanisms.     

Use of a culture medium (McCoy®), as a method for evaluating Bos indicus × Bos taurus embryos

The aim of this study was to use culture medium (McCoy®) as a test to evaluate the classification of embryos after a primary grading using stereoscopic microscopy to further confirm whether embryos have been correctly scored by stereoscopic microscopy evaluating the level of apoptosis. Forty‐six Bos indicus embryos were collected with a non‐surgical method and evaluated with stereoscopic microscopy for scoring in three categories (good, fair and poor). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were assessed and compared between the control group (n = 14) at the onset of the experiment and in an experimental group (n = 32) after stored for 4 h in a culture medium. Embryos were processed using TUNEL and BrdU markers to determine the apoptosis and cell proliferation. Seventy‐four per cent of good quality embryos developed favourably after the 4 h of culture; 60% of fair embryos maintained their evolution, while 100% of poor quality embryos presented degenerative changes from the beginning. No statistical differences were found between the experimental and the control groups in the count of positive BrdU and apoptotic nuclei. In poor quality embryos, a higher number of apoptotic cells were found relative to good and fair embryos, both in the experimental and control groups (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the culture medium may be used for a short time as a fast, practical and non‐invasive alternative to further confirm whether embryos have been correctly scored by stereoscopic microscopy.     

Isolation, culture and chondrogenic differentiation of canine adipose tissue- and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells–a comparative study

In the dog, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to reside in the bone marrow (bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells: BM-MSCs) as well as in the adipose tissue (adipose tissue-derived stem cells: ADSCs). Potential application fields for these multipotent MSCs in small animal practice are joint diseases as MSCs of both sources have shown to possess chondrogenic differentiation ability. However, it is not clear whether the chondrogenic differentiation potential of cells of these two distinct tissues is truly equal. Therefore, we compared MSCs of both origins in this study in terms of their chondrogenic differentiation ability and suitability for clinical application. BM-MSCs harvested from the femoral neck and ADSCs from intra-abdominal fat tissue were examined for their morphology, population doubling time (PDT) and CD90 surface antigen expression. RT-PCR served to assess expression of pluripotency marker Oct4 and early differentiation marker genes. Chondrogenic differentiation ability was compared and validated using histochemistry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and quantitative RT-PCR. Both cell populations presented a highly similar morphology and marker expression in an undifferentiated stage except that freshly isolated ADSCs demonstrated a significantly faster PDT than BM-MSCs. In contrast, BM-MSCs revealed a morphological superior cartilage formation by the production of a more abundant and structured hyaline matrix and higher expression of lineage specific genes under the applied standard differentiation protocol. However, further investigations are necessary in order to find out if chondrogenic differentiation can be improved in canine ADSCs using different protocols and/or supplements.     

Combination of cell culture and quantitative PCR (cc–qPCR) to assess disinfectants efficacy on Cryptosporidium oocysts under standardized conditions

Oocysts of Cryptosporidium parvum are resistant to environmental conditions and many disinfectants. A combination of cell culture and quantitative real time PCR (cc–qPCR) is established for evaluation of anticoccidial disinfectants against C. parvum. C. parvum oocysts were treated with disinfectants, washed and oocysts were incubated with HCT-8 cell monolayers in the presence of excystation medium for 3 h. Subsequently, unbound parasites were removed by washing with growing medium and the infected monolayers were further maintained in fresh growing medium for 48 h. Genomic DNA was extracted from each sample and qPCR performed targeting a specific sequence of the 70 kDa heat shock protein gene in order to quantify development. Treatment of oocysts with cresolic disinfectants demonstrated dose dependent reduction of viability of oocysts. More than 98% inactivations were recorded with at least 2% concentration of cresolic disinfectants after 2 h of treatment. Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) at 6% solution induced 92.7% inactivation of C. parvum oocysts after 2 h. Thermally treated oocysts (56 and 70 °C for 20 min) demonstrated complete inactivation, whereas at 38 °C no inactivation was observed. Application of Neopredisan^® 135-1 and Aldecoc^® TGE (4% for 2 h) as recommended according to the current guidelines stipulated by DVG (German Veterinary Society) consistently inactivated more than 99.5% of oocysts. The suggested cc–qPCR method appeared to be suited for standardized testing of inactivation measures, particularly for evaluation of chemical disinfectants and thus cc–qPCR is proposed as an alternative to the established chicken infectivity model for Eimeria tenella for testing anticoccidial disinfectants. A minimum inactivation of 99.5% in cc–qPCR model is claimed as a suitable threshold for certification of chemical products for disinfection of coccidia oocysts.     

Utilization of Frozen Semen of Wild Yak

After domestication of wild yak and utilization of its frozen semen was successful in 1983, frozen semen of wild yak was used to improve domestic yak and local yellow cattle by artificial insemination(AI). Hybrid vigor of their F1 was obvious, i. e. , productive performance of F1 was significantly increased. Their offspring did not only have significant heterosis in performance but also can rejuvenate effectively their adaptability and survival, and can use alpine grassland more efficiently. This resulted in significant social and economic benefits.Compared with dairy cattle, beef cattle and yellow cattle, AI of yak was more difficult. Using AI to improve yak performance was difficult and significant in yak production areas of our country. It is necessary to invest more technique and fund to extend AI.     

Pathogen associated molecular pattern-induced TNF, IL-1β, IL-6 and CXCL-8 production from feline whole blood culture

Whole blood culture (C_wb) is a method to evaluate leukocyte response to stimuli. We used C_wb to evaluate the inflammatory response to pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) in cats. Blood was collected from diluted with RPMI and stimulated with various concentrations of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), lipoteichoic acid (LTA), peptidoglycan (PG) or control (PBS). Multiple concentrations of LPS, LTA and PG significantly stimulated tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-1β and CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)-8 in feline C_wb. All PAMPs failed to stimulate IL-6 production and PG failed to stimulate CXCL-8 production. Lipopolysaccharide was a more potent inducer of IL-1β and CXCL-8 than LTA or PG and LTA is a more potent inducer of CXCL-8 than PG. Based on these data, PAMPs from gram positive and negative bacteria induce TNF, IL-1β and CXCL-8 production in feline whole blood. Cats appear to be relatively more sensitive to gram negative compared to gram positive bacteria.     

The microstructure of the cuticle‐less shell of the eggs of the domestic hen

1. Open pores were a notable feature of the shell of hens' eggs which were naturally devoid of cuticle.

2. In contrast with normal eggs, the surface of the cuticle‐less shell was irregularly contoured and, in many instances, deeply fissured.     

Elevation of shoot‐apices of two ecotypes of Themeda triandra on the Transvaal Highveld

In a series of investigations from 1965 to 1970 on the Transvaal Highveld it was found that trie elevation of shoot apices of two ecotypes of Themeda triandra was affected by season, ecotype and treatment. The absence of defoliation increased the susceptibility of the ecotypes to defoliation, whereas the shorter the defoliation the greater the subsequent resistance to grazing. The most important finding was that general application of earlier research findings from Natal was not possible in this case.     

Comprehensive Analysis of Mixed Soda Saline-Alkali Resistance of Germplasm Resources of Longmu Alfalfa北大核心CSCD

The effects of mixed soda saline-alkali (NaHCO3:Na2CO3=9:1) at different concentrations (10,20,30,40 and 50 mmol·L-1) on the germination of five Longmu alfalfa seeds were studied. The results showed that the germination rate,germination potential,germination index,vigor index,dry weight,fresh weight,water content,embryo length,radicle length of alfalfa seeds showed different trends under different mixed soda saline-alkali concentrations. Through principal component analysis of nine indicators,GR,GP,GI,VI,FW,WC and EL indicators were screened out to be related to salt and alkali tolerance of Longmu alfalfa varieties. According to the analysis of membership function,weight coefficient and D value of comprehensive evaluation,the salt and alkali tolerance of five longmu alfalfa varieties were in the order of LM 807 > LM 808 > LM 806 > LM 803 > LM 801. © 2019 Ｊｏｕｒｎａｌ ｏｆ Ｒｅｆｒｉｇｅｒａｔｉｏｎ. All rights reserved.     

Influence of β ‐glucanase on feeding value of barley for poultry and moisture content of excreta

1. The cause of the sticky droppings and poor performance that can occur when barley is fed to poultry was investigated.

2. The problems could be overcome by water‐treatment of the barley or by addition of β‐glucanase.

3. The problems appear to be caused by a viscous factor, which is hydrolysed by β‐glucanase. Water‐treatment allows hydrolysis by enzymes in the barley.

4. Heat‐treatment of barley denatures hydrolytic enzymes and prevents reduction in viscosity.     

Is breed-specific legislation justified? Study of the results of the temperament test of Lower Saxony

Beginning in July 2000 legislation in Lower Saxony restricted the keeping of bull terriers, American Staffordshire terriers, pit bull terriers, and 11 other breeds. Exemption was possible after attending an especially developed test. The tests analyzed for breed predisposition for excessively aggressive signaling or aggressive behavior in inappropriate situations, differences in behavior between breeds, and factors differentiating biting from nonbiting dogs.The test results of 415 dogs were analyzed. The test consisted of a veterinary examination; a learning test; situations of dog-human, dog-environment, and dog-dog contact; and obedience. Escalation in aggressive behavior was scored using a scale of 1-7. No aggressive behavior (1 on the scale) was shown by 38.07% of the dogs, 61.69% showed aggressive behavior scored as 2 to 5 on the scale, and 0.24% bit without previous threatening signals (6 on the scale).Concerning a score of 1 on the scale, pairwise comparison (chi-square test) showed significant differences between bull terriers and American Staffordshire terriers (P = 0.004), pit bull terriers (P = 0.01), Doberman pinschers (P = 0.003), and rottweilers (P = 0.009). Concerning scores of 2 to 7 on the scale,, no significant differences were found.Ninety-five percent of the animals reacted appropriately in the test situation. Five percent displayed excessive aggressive signaling or aggressive behavior in inappropriate situations. These displays were associated with unusual movements and the dogs' apparent apprehension. Correlation between test results and owners jerking on the leash or misinterpreting their dogs' behavior and dogs trying to elude physical manipulation was found. No significant difference in behavior between breeds was detected.The results show no indication of dangerousness in specific breeds. Justification for specific breed lists in the legislation was not shown.     

Growth and Development of The Kunlun Type of Wild Yak

The observation of body height and weight of 10 captured wild yak shows the body height and weight of the wild yak at three and four months old were similar with that of domestic yak. At their 24 months old, the body height and weight were higher by 26.9 % and 62.5 % than that of the domestic ones. The results indicate that, once adapted to the half-shed and half-grazing conditions, the tamed Kunlun type of wild yak with superior genetics would grow and develop faster than the domestic yak at elder ages.     

Chronic non-progressive pneumonia of sheep in New Zealand – a review of the role of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae

Chronic non-progressive pneumonia (CNP) is a common disease which affects lambs in New Zealand during late summer and autumn. Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae can be recovered from a high proportion of lesions but it is also present in some normal lungs. Bacteria, especially Pasteurella haemolytica, can also be recovered from more than half the lungs of affected animals.

Isolates of M. ovipneumoniae are genetically heterogeneous, as demonstrated by examination of their DNA or total cellular proteins, and are serologically heterogeneous as shown by metabolic inhibition tests. The number of strains present in New Zealand is large and several distinguishable strains can be recovered from each affected lung. Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae has pathogenic potential as indicated by its ability to produce hydrogen peroxide, cause ciliostasis and by its possession of a capsule.

Chronic non-progressive pneumonia can be transmitted consistently to over 50% of lambs by inoculation of pooled pneumonic lung homogenate and transmission can be suppressed by broad spectrum antibiotics. In contrast, penicillin does not prevent the development of lesions but diminishes their severity. Pooled lung homogenate treated with digitonin, which inactivates mycoplasmas, has failed to transmit CNP. Pure cultures of M. ovipneumoniae produce only mild lesions in some animals, whereas inoculation with pooled lung homogenate (from which no viruses were isolated) containing mixed strains of M. ovipneumoniae and free from bacteria, is more effective in producing lesions.

Research work to date suggests that CNP may be initiated by colonisation of the lung by M. ovipneumoniae which causes ciliostasis and elicits an exudate allowing colonisation of the lungs by bacteria especially P. haemolytica and by other strains of M. ovipneumoniae. The immune response to the initial strain of M. ovipneumoniae may inhibit its replication but would be less effective in inhibiting heterologous strains of the organism allowing their sequential replication. Eventually production of a broad immune response to M. ovipneumoniae would lead to its elimination which in turn would facilitate the elimination of other microorganisms and the resolution of lesions. As natural immunity to CNP occurs within the first year, it may be possible to develop an effective and useful vaccine. Such a vaccine may need to include multiple strains of M. ovipneumoniae.