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Sweet basil is a perishable green herb that has a short shelf life after harvest. Techniques to extend its shelf life and prolong its storability may be commercially beneficial. In this study, the impact of different ultrasound powers on the postharvest quality and bioactive compounds of sweet basil during storage was investigated. The sampled basil leaves were immersed in an ultrasonic bath (40 kHz) at 200 or 400 W for 3 min at ambient temperature (28 ℃). The control samples were treated with tap water. All of the treatments were packed in a basket covered with a polyethylene sheet and kept at 13 ℃. Changes in the physical and chemical properties were recorded every 3 h to determine the impact of the ultrasound treatment on prolonging the postharvest quality and maintaining the bioactive compounds of the sweet basil leaves. The results showed that ultrasound at 400 W significantly reduced the weight loss and respiration rate of the sweet basil leaves. Additionally, ultrasound at 400 W increased the total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and vitamin C content, which were related to the activity of phenylalanine ammonium lyase and ascorbate peroxidase, compared with the control. This study showed that ultrasound treatment can delay postharvest loss and maintain the nutritional quality of sweet basil during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pot study was conducted to determine the effects of the combination of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and biochar on the growth, physiological, and biochemical characteristics of eggplant seedlings under salinity stress. The greenhouse experiment included two salinity levels of NaCl [S0 (0 mM NaCl) and S1 (100 mM NaCl)], three biochar levels [B0 (non-biochar), B1 (5%) and B2 (10%)] and two PGPR [R0 (non-PGPR), R1 (combination of Bacillus megaterium TV-6D, Paenibacillus polymyxa KIN-37, and Pantoea agglomerans RK92). Results showed that plant growth, relative leaf water content (LRWC), and chlorophyll content of eggplant seedlings decreased significantly, while malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), proline, sucrose and ABA content, and electrolyte leakage (EL) increased significantly with increase in salinity levels. Biochar and PGPR applications mitigated the negative influence of salinity stress on plant growth and physiological and biochemical characteristics of eggplant seedlings, enhancing chlorophyll content, plant nutrient element uptake, and antioxidant enzyme activity. The enhanced salinity tolerance due to biochar and PGPR applications could be associated with a significant reduction in Na and Cl uptake, MDA, H2O2 and EL and an increase in LRWC, chlorophyll content, antioxidant activity and plant nutrient element uptake. Therefore, it can be concluded that combining biochar and PGPR could be used to minimize the detrimental impacts of salinity stress conditions in eggplant seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is one of the major environmental constraints affecting agriculture in major regions of the world. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of exogenous nitric oxide (NO) treatments on two chickpea cultivars (Cagatay and Inci) under salt stress conditions. Different NO doses (0. 75 and 100 µM sodium nitroprusside (SNP)) as an NO source were applied to chickpea plants grown under saline (presence of 50 and 100 mM of NaCl) and nonsaline conditions. In this study, plant shoot fresh and dry weight, root fresh and dry weight, chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll, chlorophyll reading value (CRV), relative water content (RWC), electrical conductivity (EC), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), antioxidant enzyme activity [superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX)], K/Na and Ca/Na ratio were examined. Plant growth, RWC, and chlorophyll content were negatively affected by salinity conditions but exogenous NO treatment improved the parameters. EC, H2O2, and MDA content were increased with salinity conditions while exogenous NO treatment decreased the searched parameters. K/Na and Ca/Na ratios were decreased with 50 and 100 mM of NaCl treatments. Although the cultivars response to salt stress is similar in general, Inci cultivars were found to be more sensitive to salt stress than Cağatay cultivar. The present study revealed that the exogenous NO treatment supported chickpea seedlings against salinity stress by regulating uptaking mineral elements, the antioxidant enzyme activity, and RWC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the response to salinity stress (100 mM, 200 mM, and 300 mM NaCl concentration) exposure of the commercially valuable medicinal plant Stevia rebaudiana during micropropagation for 4 weeks. The significant enhancement of physiological parameters, steviol glycosides (SGs), i.e. rebaudioside A and stevioside, as examined by high-performance liquid chromatography, and nonenzymatic antioxidant activities, i.e. total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total antioxidant capacity, total reducing power, and DPPH-free radical scavenging activity, was observed during the shoot formation process under up to 100 mM NaCl stress. Callus formation produced similar results regarding physiology and antioxidant assays, except that it produced merely a negligible amount of SGs. Contrarily, root formation showed marked susceptibility to 100 mM, 200 mM, and 300 mM NaCl concentrations and reduced growth parameters, sweetening compounds, and secondary metabolites. Hence, NaCl plays the role of abiotic stress elicitor, causing accumulation of reactive oxygen species and thus altering metabolic processes and physiology of Stevia under in vitro culture conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first record of the family Cryptochetidae is given from Turkey. Cryptochetum grandicorne and C. jorgepastori were found in Turkey. Four original figures are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of ketamine, a drug commonly used as an anesthetic, on monoaminergic neurotransmitters and GABA in neurocytes from fetal rats has not yet been elucidated. We thus decided to investigate these effects by first evaluating ketamine levels in the cerebrospinal fluid by high-performance liquid chromatography. We thus determined the concentrations of GABA, DA, NE, 5-HT, and 5-HIAA following the addition of four different concentrations of ketamine at day 7 of nerve cell culture. GABA, 5-HT, and 5-HIAA levels were increased after an initial decrease: they showed the lowest levels at 10-15 min and the highest peaks at 45-90 min, followed by a declining trend. On the other hand, the trends of DA and NE levels were opposite. These changes in neurotransmitter levels showed a significant impact on monoamine neurotransmitters and GABA, consistent with the clinical changes in anesthetized rats. The role of ketamine in anesthesia may be explained by the changing levels of these indicators. Ketamine may be involved in the inhibition of the production and storage of excitatory neurotransmitters and the promotion of the generation and storage of inhibitory neurotransmitters, exerting its anesthetic action by reducing messenger molecules and related enzyme activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of sex and breeding season on the morphological and histological structures of the interdigital gland in Awassi sheep (Ovis aries). Forelimbs and hind limbs were collected from 10 males and 10 females in both the breeding (June-July) and nonbreeding (November-December) seasons. The interdigital glands were located between the first and second phalanxes and were present on all of the limbs. The mean weight of the gland was 1.03 ± 0.03 g. Mean body length, body thickness, duct length, duct diameter, and duct opening diameter were 17.42 ± 0.23 mm, 8.12 ± 0.08 mm, 26.81 ± 0.31 mm, 4.65 ± 0.05 mm, and 3.53 ± 0.03 mm, respectively. All of the parameters had higher values in males than in females. In the breeding season, values were generally higher than those in the nonbreeding season. Gland secretions were pink and necrotic cell debris was observed in the gland lumen. The morphometric and histological data from this study indicate that the structure of the interdigital gland in Awassi sheep is similar to that in other sheep breeds. The results also suggest that this gland may play a role in sexual communication in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intestinal barrier includes physical and chemical components for preventing the invasion of pathogenic and toxic agents. The aim of this study was to investigate small intestinal morphology, antimicrobial peptides, and tight junction (TJ) distribution among broilers, Thai Betong chickens, and native Thai Praduhangdum chickens. Intestinal samples from 40 chickens of each breed were collected. The results of the histological and morphological examination revealed that the duodenum of all breeds had the maximum villus height compared to the other parts. The intestinal tract of both Betong and Praduhangdum chickens was low in the number of mucin and goblet cells. In broilers, the intestinal surface mucins correlated with the number of β-defensin-positive Paneth cells. Claudin-1 protein was observed in the cytoplasm of the epithelium in all breeds, with the highest intensity of claudin-1 staining detected in the intestinal cells of the ileum. Localization of occludin was higher in the broilers in all intestinal segments than in the native Thai chickens. In conclusion, the broilers exhibited a large amount of TJ proteins and mucosal immunity as compared to native Thai-breed chickens. TJ localizations together with intestinal morphology and mucosal immunity can be utilized as biological markers for gut health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of hematological analyses may be affected by preanalytical factors such as sampling procedure, type and concentration of anticoagulant, or conditions and time of blood storage. In the present study the effects of various concentrations of heparin (0-200 IU/cm3) and different times (2, 24, or 48 h) and temperatures (4 or 22 °C) of blood storage on the values of hematological parameters in Cyprinus carpio were evaluated. Increase in heparin concentration resulted in a decrease in frequency of erythroblasts, a reduction of leukocyte and thrombocyte counts, and a decrease in oxidative metabolic activity of phagocytes. Storage for 2 h at 22 °C resulted in a decrease in erythrocyte, leukocyte, and thrombocyte counts, while at 4 °C an increase in corpuscular hemoglobin values and a beginning of decrease in leukocyte count occurred after 24 h. These results indicate that heparin concentrations should be minimized and equal for all blood samples (preferably 50 IU/cm³), blood must be refrigerated immediately after sampling, and the analyses should be performed not later than 1 day after sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma equirhinis and Mycoplasma felis are thought to be infectious etiologic agents of inflammatory airway disease (IAD), which, after musculoskeletal injuries, is the second most common cause of poor performance in thoroughbred racehorses. The aims of this study were to investigate for the first time the presence of M. equirhinis, M. felis, and other Mycoplasma spp. in the lower respiratory tract of racehorses in İstanbul Province in Turkey and to statistically evaluate the association between clinical signs of IAD and the presence of mycoplasmas. Tracheal wash (TW) samples were collected from 111 English and Arabian thoroughbred horses that showed clinical signs of IAD. TW samples were examined by culture and PCR methods. The detection rates of Mycoplasma spp., M. felis, and M. equirhinis were found to be 16.2%, 0%, and 18% by culture and 59.5%, 1.8%, and 6.3% by PCR in TW samples, respectively. According to statistical evaluations, a significant association was found for the presence of M. felis in English thoroughbred racehorses. However, no significant association was found between clinical signs of IAD and the presence of M. equirhinis, M. felis, and other Mycoplasma spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of injecting vitamin C (VC) and E (VE) on size of the preovulatory follicle, volume of the corpus luteum, and pregnancy rates in Holstein cows under heat stress conditions (temperature humidity index > 74). Sixty-two cows were randomly assigned to one of four treatments: 1, control, n = 15: cows were not supplemented with vitamins; 2, VCG, n = 15: cows were simultaneously injected i.v. with 500 and s.c. with 2500 mg of VC before and after estrus; 3, VEG, n = 15: cows received an i.m. injection of 3000 IU of VE before estrus; 4, VCEG, n = 17: cows were injected with VC and VE in the same way and doses as in treatments 2 and 3. Treatment did not significantly affect any of the measured variables, despite a numerical increase in pregnancy rates in cows injected with vitamins (7.5 ± 7.3%, 9.6 ± 9.4%, 15.1 ± 10.0%, and 18.34 ± 9.9% for control, VCG, VEG, and VCEG, respectively). In conclusion, injections of vitamin C and E did not affect either the development of the preovulatory follicle and the corpus luteum or pregnancy rates in Holstein dairy cattle under heat stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, umbilical cord-derived neonatal tetanus in calves was identified in Turkey. Four calves with tetanus-specific history and clinical findings were used. Blood samples were taken before and after treatment, and clinical findings were recorded. A tetanus-specific treatment procedure was performed. However, the calves died from not responding to treatment. Pretreatment white blood cell, peripheral blood polymorphonuclear leukocyte, creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were determined to be high. Aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, CK, and LDH activities were found to increase after treatment compared to before treatment. Gram-positive terminal spore-forming bacilli were observed in bacterioscopic examination of the necrotic tissue and swab samples from the umbilical cord region. The umbilical cord region was determined to be infected in all calves. In histopathological examination, pyogranuloma formation was observed in the wound area, and in Gram staining agents morphologically concordant with Clostridium tetani in necrotic material were observed. Blood serum of the calves was inoculated into mice. All mice died within 2 days after the inoculation, showing tetanus-specific clinical findings. As a result, bacterioscopy and histopathology of the umbilical cord region may be useful for diagnosis in addition to clinical findings. Mice trials may be used in confirming the diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present paper color and pattern variations of Hierophis gemonensis, a snake with little morphological variation, are described. For the first time, partially melanistic individuals were observed and described for this species. The identity of one of these snakes was corroborated by genetic means. Taxonomical circumstances and environmental causes of this color and pattern variation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cytokine transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) plays an important role in the maintenance of T cell homeostasis, immune tolerance to self-antigens, and T cell differentiation during immune responses. TGF-β has pleiotropic effects on adaptive immune responses, especially on the differentiation of T helper and T regulatory cell populations, which depends on the T cell differentiation status and the stimulation conditions. This review provides an update about the roles of TGF-β in T cell responses, especially in the regulation of Treg development and biological features under steady state and inflammation. We also discuss the additional roles that TGF-β plays in the development and function of other T helper cells, such as Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17, and Th22 cells during inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematological effects of etomidate and tricaine at concentrations causing general anesthesia or sedation of carp juveniles were compared. Recovery of body balance took similar time in the case of both anesthetics, but fish treated with etomidate were depressed for several hours, while those subjected to tricaine immediately regained normal behavior. Immediately after exposure anesthetics caused minor hematological changes; the only statistically significant effects (decrease of hematocrit and plasma glucose) occurred after sedation with etomidate. One week after exposure a significant increase in mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration occurred in all groups of fish compared to the previous values, with slight increase in hemoglobin and decrease in red blood cell count. The mean corpuscular volume values tended to increase in all groups except for the control. Oxidative metabolic activity of phagocytes was significantly higher in both groups treated with etomidate compared to the control and tricaine groups. The results revealed that etomidate was less aversive and better prevented a delayed immunosuppressive effect of stress caused by handling and bleeding, while very quick complete recovery was the benefit of tricaine. These findings suggest that etomidate is better when long-term stress prevention is required, while tricaine is more useful for short-term immobilization of fish when rapid recovery of normal behavior is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of different processing methods of pigeon pea (Pp; Cajanus cajan) on fattening performance and carcass traits as well as blood biochemical and hematological parameters of broiler chickens. For this purpose, 300 dayold chicks were assigned to 5 treatments. Each treatment had 5 replicates and contained 12 birds each under a completely randomized design. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets were formulated with the inclusion of pigeon pea crushed (control, PPC), boiled with potash (PPP), boiled (PPB), soaked (PPS), or roasted (PPR) at the rate of 20% of the basal diet. The highest values of weight gain were observed in chicks fed the PPP diet through the starter and overall periods. Throughout the starter phase, the feed conversion ratio was significantly affected by dietary treatments. Highest values for carcass and breast weight were observed in birds fed the PPP diet as compared to the control diet. Blood biochemical parameters were not statistically influenced by Pp treatments. Hematology was also similar in all the diets. In conclusion, PPP can be used as a protein source in broiler diets and it can improve the growth performance of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of conventional-cage (CC), enriched-cage (EC), and free-range (FR) systems and hen age on internal and external egg quality parameters of layers (Lohmann Brown). A total of 720 eggs were analyzed for egg weight (EW), shell weight (SW), yolk weight (YW), albumen weight (AW), shell thickness (ST), shell breaking strength (SBS), shape (SI), albumen (AI), yolk index (YI) of eggs, shell ratio of eggs (SR), albumen ratio of eggs (AR), yolk ratio of eggs (YR), yolk color (YC), and Haugh unit (HU). The highest EW, YW, AW, SW, AI, YI, HU (all P < 0.001), and SI values were found in FR system eggs compared with CC and EC system eggs (P = 0.045). The SBS, ST, YC, SR, YR, and AR were found similar in all housing systems. There was an interaction between the housing system and hen age for EW, SW, YW, AW, SBS, ST, AI, YC, HU, AR (all P < 0.001), SI (P = 0.003), SR (P = 0.001), and YR (P = 0.001) of eggs. It can be concluded that eggs in the FR system were better in overall quality than eggs from CC and EC systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RAPD molecular markers and phenotypic growth traits were joined using different genotypes of Larix decidua (Mill.) to analyze genetic variation. Individual samples of vegetative clones were analyzed from Baciu orchard (obtained through a breeding program from regional stands from Romania) and pooled samples from places of origin (regional stands). Based on coefficients of variation for tree height, diameter, and volume, the greatest genetic variation in the orchard was observed at the Gura Humorului and Anina provenances (24.4%, 27.5%, and 14.4% for Gura Humorului and 26.9%, 29.46%, and 15.5% for Anina). In addition, the trees whose origins are Gura Humorului and Anina form the thickest branches. In stands from origin areas, the best performances of growth trait in height were scored in the Valea Popii (33.5 m) and Anina (33.1 m) populations. Stands from Valea Cetatii and Sacele recorded the smallest diameters. Both in orchards and in regional stands the trees with the greatest vigor were those from Gura Humorului and Anina and large variability was noted, which allows efficient selection in order to identify superior trees useful for larch breeding. RAPD analysis illustrated the genetic differences among the larch proveniences and some provenances represented distinct genetic entities, recognizable at the molecular level. The dendrogram indicates the diversity of the genotypes divided into seven groups as were the collection sites. Polled samples of DNA proved to be a valuable tool for determining the phylogenetic relationships in larch provenances. Thus, most populations from regional stands are grouped in the same branch (group) with clones from orchard. The correlation between genetic distance and geographical distance was not significant, with a correlation coefficient of 0.035. In addition, a slight decrease was observed in genetic distance with increase in geographical distance between genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: To evaluate changes in growth and bone metabolism during consumption of a gluten-free diet (GFD) in children with coeliac disease (CD). Materials and methods: Thirty-seven children with CD (mean age of 8.8 ± 4.6 years, 21 girls) were enrolled. Anthropometric measurements, bone mineral density (BMD) in lumbar 2-4 vertebrae, and serum alkaline phosphatase, calcium, and phosphorus levels at diagnosis and at follow-up were recorded. Results: The mean follow-up period was 3.5 ± 2.3 years. The BMD of patients was significantly lower than that of control subjects at the time of diagnosis but not after 1 year of the GFD. Incidence of low BMD with respect to z-scores for chronological age (CA) was significantly higher than z-scores for height age (HA) (P = 0.006). At the first year of GFD, BMD, BMD z-score, height-for-age z-scores, and weight-for-age z-scores were significantly increased compared with the baseline, but not after 1 year of the GFD. Conclusion: In CD, the first year of GFD is important in weight gain, linear growth, and improvement of BMD. A considerable relation of low BMD in children with CD, with respect to z-scores for CA, may be a result of misinterpretation of low BMD due to short stature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidative effect of curcumin on nicotine-induced mice testis. Materials and methods: Sixty Swiss albino male mice were divided into five groups, each containing 12 mice. The first group was used as a control. To induce toxicity in the second and third group, nicotine (0.4 mg/kg/day) was injected intraperitoneally into mice for 14 and 28 days, respectively. The mice in the fourth and fifth group were injected with nicotine (0.4 mg/kg/day) and orally treated with curcumin (200 mg/kg) for 14 and 28 days, respectively. Testosterone levels were measured from blood samples and testis tissues were examined under light and electron microscopes. Results: Light and electron microscopic examinations of the nicotine-induced groups showed evident degenerations in spermatogenic cells, Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells. The groups treated with curcumin had less testicular alterations. The mice that were sacrificed after 28 days in the groups treated with curcumin showed minor degenerations. Furthermore, the median levels of testosterone significantly decreased in the nicotine-induced groups in comparison with those in the control group. Conclusion: The results indicated that curcumin might be a potential therapeutic agent for testicular injury caused by nicotine addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the reproductive problems and determine the effect of treatment method on the pregnancy and foaling rates of 27 barren Arabian mares. The mares were examined over two study seasons. Ultrasonography and gynecological examinations were performed for all mares that were unable to conceive during the previous season and mares for which pregnancy was not achieved even after mating with stallions three times during each season. Endometrial swab samples were also obtained for microbiological examination. Cytology and endometrial biopsy samples were obtained from all mares in the first study season. Endometrial biopsy samples were also obtained from the mares in the second study season that were not pregnant at the end of the season due to the applied treatment. Klebsiella pneumoniae (42.9%) was the most frequently isolated species. A cytology score of >0 caused a decrease in the foaling rate (P < 0.07). A statistically significant decrease was observed in the pregnancy and foaling rate of mares in Category (C) > I (P < 0.05). Therefore, positive cytology and biopsy results should be considered prior to application of treatment in order to increase the expected foaling rate in barren Arabian mares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutritive values of almond hulls (AHs), alfalfa (ALF), and sugar beet pulp (SBP) were determined using the in situ nylon bag technique. The ruminal dry matter (DM) degradation kinetics of 4 varieties of AHs were compared with ALF and SBP. The almond varieties tested were Rabbi (RAB), Mamaii (MAM), Shahrud 15 (SH15), and Shokufe (SH). Samples were incubated in triplicate at 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h in 3 rumen-fistulated steers. The average total degradability fraction (TDF) of DM in AHs was 89.00%. Although the TDF of AHs (86.50%) was lower than that of SBP (98.00%), it was higher (P < 0.05) than that of ALF (67.00%). The soluble (a) fraction in AHs (55.00%) was higher than in both ALF (20.00%) and SBP (26.00%). This high (a) fraction of AHs was attributed to their relatively higher nonfibrous carbohydrate and lower neutral detergent fiber content than ALF and SBP. The degradation rate of ALF (0.14%) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) compared to the other samples, whereas that of SBP (0.05%) was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from those in AHs. The results showed that AHs are potential feed materials for ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was undertaken to measure the effect of fattening duration (60, 80, and 100 days) on growth performance and carcass characteristics of male kids from indigenous Hair and Honamlı goat breeds reared under intensive fattening systems in Turkey. Fattening duration had a significant effect (P < 0.001) on the fattening performance and a number of carcass characteristics of kids. An interaction was detected between genotype and fattening duration for average daily gain (ADG). Hair goat kids grew at a faster rate than Honamlı kids in the 20-40 day and 40-60 day fattening periods, but they maintained relatively similar ADGs within other fattening periods. On average, over the course of the fattening trial, Honamlı kids grew at an average daily rate of 209 g/head, while Hair goat kids grew at a daily rate of 231 g/head. Dressing percentage and carcass lean and fat percentages of kids increased (P < 0.05-0.001) with slaughter age and weight for both genotypes, whereas the percentage of bone decreased (P < 0.001) with each successive fattening period. No genotypic differences were detected for a number of carcass characteristics at the time of slaughter, with the exception of relatively higher (P < 0.01) fat deposit rates within the kidney and pelvic areas for Hair kids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melatonin acts classically through the widely expressed G protein-coupled membrane receptors MT1 and MT2, respectively. The functional role of the MT receptors is not fully clear with multiple effects, such as effects on the circadian, reproductive, immune, cardiovascular, and intestinal systems, being suggested. In addition to receptor-mediated effects, melatonin also acts as a potent antioxidant and it is quite evident that melatonin and its metabolites efficiently reduce oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA and also exert protective effects on mitochondria. The potent antioxidant activity of melatonin stems from various complex mechanisms, including direct scavenging of radicals, stimulation of antioxidant enzymes, and maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis. However, about a dozen experimental studies also suggest that melatonin can exert prooxidant effects under certain circumstances. Involvement of calmodulin and the mitochondrial respiratory chain may be potential targets for the prooxidant effects of melatonin. This review briefly summarizes the physiobiochemistry of melatonin, including its antioxidative functions, and summarizes and discusses studies showing prooxidant effects of this hormone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, to determine the effects of β-estradiol on the ability of plants to tolerate lead toxicity, β-estradiol (10 μM) and lead (1.75 mM), singly or in combination, were exogenously applied to wheat seeds. Although lead resulted in a marked increase in the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase (but not catalase), as well as an increase in the level of antioxidant compounds such as ascorbic acid and glutathione, this was insufficient to ameliorate the lead-induced oxidative injury or the superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide, and malondialdehyde levels. However, β-estradiol was able to reduce the lead-induced oxidative damage and improved the antioxidant system. Similarly, β-estradiol reduced lead-induced α-amylase activity. The effects of lead toxicity on genetic material were also determined using the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA technique. While lead led to DNA damage in wheat seedlings, β-estradiol significantly mitigated this damage. Our element analysis results show that β-estradiol did not prevent lead uptake by roots, even it did stimulate the accumulation there. Taken together, our data demonstrate for the first time that β-estradiol-induced lead tolerance is associated with many biochemical and molecular mechanisms, including the antioxidant system, detoxification of reactive oxygen species, modulation of uptake and accumulation of lead, and protection of genetic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate heparin-induced in vitro capacitation-associated changes in spermatozoa of swamp buffalo. Therefore, freshly ejaculated and washed spermatozoa of 8 swamp buffalo bulls were capacitated in vitro in TALP medium supplemented with BSA, heparin, and HEPES buffer at a concentration of 6 × 109 spermatozoa/mL at 37 °C for 6 h. Capacitation status of spermatozoa in terms of the hyperactivated motility, acrosome membrane integrity, total hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST), activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and sperm membrane protein (SMP) and cholesterol content were estimated for each ejaculate at 1-h intervals from 0 to 6 h of incubation. The results revealed that the highest hyperactivation of spermatozoa (74.50 ± 1.78%) and live acrosome reaction (56.92 ± 1.88%) was recorded at 4 h of incubation while the total HOST-reacted spermatozoa and SMP and cholesterol levels decreased significantly (P < 0.01) with increasing period of incubation. The AST and ALT activities increased significantly (P < 0.01) as incubation period increased. In conclusion, heparin induces in vitro capacitation changes in swamp buffalo spermatozoa as evidenced by the highest hyperactivation of spermatozoa and live acrosome reaction at 4 h of incubation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentration activity levels of selected radionuclides in skulls of European badger from eastern Poland were determined. It was found that studied skull bones contained on average 1.6 ± 1.7 Bq kg-1 of 137Cs (range: 0-6.4 Bq kg-1), 2.2 ± 0.87 Bq kg-1 of 90Sr (range: 0.93-3.9 Bq kg-1), and 8.4 ± 4.1 Bq kg-1 of 239+240Pu (range: 0-53 Bq kg-1). These values prove to be rather low in comparison with earlier literature data on anthropogenic radionuclides (being a result of the Chernobyl fallout) present in skulls of other mammals. This suggests that migration processes of anthropogenic radionuclides have caused a diminishing of contamination in the upper layer of soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a 16L : 8D photoperiod on growth performance, carcass characteristics, relative organ weight, meat composition, and blood parameters in Pekin ducks. A total of 120 (60 male and 60 female) ducklings were used in the research. Each sex group was randomly allocated into 2 photoperiod groups, 24L : 0D and 16L : 8D. Ducks reared under the 24L : 0D photoperiod had higher body weight gain (P < 0.001); feed intake (P < 0.001); percentage of breast, wings, and skin with subcutaneous fat percentage (P < 0.001); and abdominal fat (P < 0.05). Sex of ducks affected body weight gain (P < 0.05; P < 0.001) and feed intake (P < 0.05) at days 1-42, as well as ash of thigh meat (P < 0.001) and creatine kinase level (P < 0.05). The present study concluded that the body weight gain and carcass development of ducks reared under the 24L : 0D photoperiod was superior to those reared under the 16L : 8D photoperiod. A 24L : 0D photoperiod is recommended for growth and carcass development in intensive Pekin duck-rearing systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histological sections of femur, tibia, and metatarsals originating from sheep (Ovis aries), goat (Capra hircus), and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) were examined in this study. Our research focused mainly on the quantitative characteristics of the microstructure of these bones. The areas, perimeters, minimum and maximum diameters of the secondary Haversian units, as well as structures of the primary osteonal units were assessed using comparative statistical methods. In addition to these parameters, the present paper investigated the usefulness of fractal analysis (fractal dimension and lacunarity), a new approach that quantifies the complexity and the emptiness pattern of biological structures. Moreover, our work uses pattern recognition methods as well as classical morphometric assessment methods, which appear to generate useful data for bone sample differentiation. Therefore, combining these methods should greatly facilitate further research in veterinary morphology, and forensic and legal veterinary medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benefits of silicon (Si) in improving crop fitness by biotic and abiotic stress resistance are widely reported. However, investigations about its protective mechanisms for plants facing multiple stresses are very limited. Two contrasting rice cultivars, KS-282 (salt-tolerant) and IRRI-6 (salt-sensitive), were grown in a pot experiment to study the interrelation between Si supplementation (0 and 150 mg kg-1) and boron (B) toxicity (0 and 2.5 mg kg-1) under salinity stress with emphasis on growth response, mineral contents, physiology, and enzymatic antioxidant system response. The results revealed that adverse growth conditions, particularly the combined stress of salinity and B toxicity, severely affected the physiological attributes of rice. It reduced plant biomass by damaging the membrane, reducing special products analysis division values and photosynthetic efficiency, but Si application counteracted the adverse effects of stress by reducing the uptake of toxic ions such as sodium (Na+) and B, lowering transpiration rate. Increased relative water contents and photosynthetic efficiency due to a higher Si and K+ uptake ultimately led to better growth performance. Si significantly affected activities of enzymatic antioxidants in both genotypes, with increased ascorbate peroxidase, increased guaiacol peroxidase, and reduced catalase activity suggesting relieved stress by reduced oxidative damage. The response to stress and Si differed genotypically, with maximum damage to the salt-sensitive genotype (IRRI-6), particularly under the combined stress of salinity and B toxicity. In contrast, supplied Si improved the growth of the salt-tolerant genotype (KS-282) better than the IRRI-6 (salt-sensitive) genotype. These results support the protective role of Si in the regulation of salinity and/or B toxicity stress by improving growth, K+/Na+ ratio, physiology, and antioxidant capacity, suggesting it as a potential candidate for crops grown under such deteriorated soil conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: Physical activity plays a key role in increasing and preserving bone mineral density (BMD). Effects on bone development associated with various nonweight-bearing sporting activities, such as swimming, are controversial. Different strokes used in swimming may also present as another factor. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of swimming and type of stroke on BMD in competitive adolescent athletes. Materials and methods: Seventy-nine swimmers between the ages of 10 and 21 years participated in this study. BMD was measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at the lumbar vertebrae and left proximal femur. Daily calorie intake and calcium consumption, and measurements of calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphates, 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D), and osteocalcin were evaluated. Results: Preliminary results revealed that the type of stroke had no effect on BMD (P = 0.79). Additionally competitive swimmers did not have augmented bone mineral accretion, and in 13.9% of athletes low BMD was confirmed. Sixty percent of swimmers had either deficient or insufficient 25(OH) D levels and a low mean calorie (P = 0.542) and calcium (P = 0.038) intake was observed. Conclusion: This was the first study to evaluate the effect of swimming stroke on BMD. Although no effect was statistically shown, further studies with a larger series may determine this effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burrowing goby, Trypauchen vagina, is recorded for the first time from the Iranian coast of the Persian Gulf. Only one other record is known for this species from the Persian Gulf; that record is from Kuwait. The subject record is a new addition to the ichthyofauna of Iran resulting from four T. vagina specimens being collected from north of Qeshm Island in the Khoran Strait (26°56'N, 55°54'E) in the Persian Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We measured body size (snout-vent length, SVL) for three populations of Ommatotriton ophryticus newts in Turkey and estimated age using the skeletochronological method. Age was determined by counting the lines of arrested growth in cross-sections taken from phalanges. SVL was similar among populations and ranged between 58.41 and 85.78 mm in males and 50.33 and 71.56 mm in females. Males were significantly larger than females in all populations. Age at maturity was 4-6 years in males and 5-6 years in females. The average age of males and females did not differ significantly. Maximum age ranged from 9 to 12 years in males and from 9 to 11 years in females. Positive correlation was found between SVL and age for both sexes in all populations. A significant difference was observed among populations in terms of both age and body size (6-, 7-, and 8-year-old age classes). The demographic traits of the studied populations are the result of the interaction of multiple factors, including altitude, geographical location, and ecological factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, morphological polymorphism among the anterior and posterior sets of primary teeth of the periphallic organ was observed among natural populations of Drosophila. Natural and laboratory populations of 3 different species (D. ananassae, D. bipectinata, and D. malerkotliana) belonging to the ananassae subgroup were used to study the intra- and interspecific variations in the number of teeth of the anterior and posterior sets of the periphallic organ. There are about 22, 20, and 20 possible combinations of sets of teeth recorded in D. ananassae, D. bipectinata, and D. malerkotliana, respectively. The maximum frequency of anterior and posterior sets of teeth was found to be (5, 3) in D. ananassae and (2, 3) in the case of D. bipectinata and D. malerkotliana. The percentage of perfect bilateral symmetry was lower than that of asymmetry in all 3 species. A significant difference was found in anterior and posterior sets of teeth between different populations. These results indicate that the primary teeth of the anterior and posterior sets of the periphallic organ in Drosophila exhibit morphological polymorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A synopsis is provided of the parasites of common carp Cyprinus carpio L. from water bodies of Turkey based on literature data from 1964 to 2014. In total, 45 studies were included in the review and these provided data from 41 water bodies, comprising 12 man-made reservoirs, 21 natural lakes, and 8 water courses. Forty-one different taxa (including molluscan Glochidium sp.) in total were recorded. Of these taxa, 2 had not been previously reviewed for Turkey, and 4 were excluded from the list because of dubious identification. The Turkish parasite fauna of common carp living under natural conditions was dominated by ciliates (Ciliophora) among the protozoans and by flatworms (Platyhelminthes) among the metazoans, and this was both in terms of occurrence on fish and across water bodies. The absence of 7 taxa from both the European and North American checklists can be explained by the location of Turkey at the frontier between Asia and Europe. Additionally, the parasite fauna of the common carp in Turkey was consistently different from that of the far eastern species' specimens. Lack of differences among water bodies in both taxon richness and composition indicates overall homogeneity, likely a result of the species' relatively long-term establishment across the region. It is suggested that management options could benefit from this level of homogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the mechanism of action of DNA insecticides, a novel preparation against gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) based on the DNA fragments of the antiapoptotic gene of its nuclear polyhedrosis virus. In our experiments gypsy moth showed significant susceptibility to applied DNA insecticides on the basis of BIR and RING domains fragments of LdMNPV IAP-3, whereas common fruit fly and tobacco hornworm did not. PCR with the same fragments of BIR and RING domains of the LdMNPV IAP-3 gene as primers revealed parts of the genomes of gypsy moth, common fruit fly, and tobacco hornworm. Part of the gypsy moth genome cloned with the fragments of BIR and RING domains of the LdMNPV IAP-3 gene as primers has an overlap with the corresponding part of the LdMNPV IAP-3 gene and Lymantria dispar IAP-1 mRNA for an inhibitor of apoptosis protein with the high cover of the latter by query, which allows assuming that we cloned a part of a gypsy moth antiapoptosis gene. This finding suggests that DNA insecticides might act through the mechanisms characteristic for blocking of posttranscriptional expression of gypsy moth antiapoptosis genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tis study was designed to micropropagate Vaccinium myrtillus L., a naturally growing bilberry, in the Turkish flora. In order to determine the most effective basal medium, lateral buds were initially selected as explants, which were then individually cultured in Murashige and Skoog medium, Anderson's rhododendron medium, and McCown's woody plant medium (WPM) supplemented with 1.0 mg L-1 zeatin in combination with either 0.1 mg L-1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) or 0.1 mg L-1 α-naphthalene acetic acid. WPM, supplemented with zeatin and IBA, was found to be the most effective basal medium tested. As shoot regeneration ability highly depends on the medium and cytokinin concentration, WPM basal media containing various concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg L-1) of 3 different cytokinins, namely zeatin, thidiazuron, and N6-[2-isopentenyl] adenine, were employed together with IBA (0.1 mg L-1 ) and were compared with basal media containing none of the growth regulators. In terms of shoot multiplication, 2.0 mg L-1 zeatin was found to be superior to the other tested growth regulators when combined with 0.1 mg L-1 IBA. WPM was also used as a basal medium for rooting and was supplemented with different concentrations of IBA (0.25-2.0 mg L-1) with or without activated charcoal (AC). WPM supplemented with 0.5/1.0 mg L-1 IBA/AC was the best culture medium for rooting with 60% root formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to investigate biosurfactant-producing culturable bacteria inhabiting the coast of the Arabian Sea at Karachi. Overall, 15 seawater samples were collected from the Arabian Sea coast of Karachi. Isolation, characterization, and screening for 89 biosurfactant-producing bacterial strains were conducted through 8 conventional screening tests. Through GSP agar plate method 22 strains were found to be Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Gram reaction revealed 70% of the isolates to be gram-negative. Furthermore, 24% of the isolates showed hemolytic activity, 44% exhibited positive results for oil-spreading test, 54% showed emulsification to at least 1 of the 3 hydrocarbons tested, BATH assay results indicated maximum adhesion for hexane, 52.8% produced positive results for CTAB agar plate assay, drop-collapse activity was found in 84% of the isolates, and emulsification assay revealed highest emulsification for xylene. Findings revealed none of the isolates to be negative for every screening test conducted, while only one gram-negative isolate, DGHE65, identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was positive for all the tests for biosurfactant production. Results indicate that these isolates have potential for future environmental friendly applications such as bioremediation and industrial biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ascocenda Wangsa Gold is a new and fascinating orchid hybrid in the Malaysian flower industry. An efficient plant vitrification solution 2 (PVS2) cryopreservation technique was developed for protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) of Ascocenda Wangsa Gold orchid. Parameters assessed included the effect of PVS2 exposure periods, thawing duration, temperature, and culture conditions based on 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride absorbance readings and regrowth rates. A regrowth rate of 33.3% was obtained after 2 months when the PLBs were dehydrated in PVS2 for 30 min. The growth rate was improved to 47% when thawing was conducted at 45 °C for 85 s. The highest growth rate (53.3%) was obtained when the PLBs were subjected to a 7-day dark treatment before being transferred to a 16-h/8-h light/dark photoperio d. Histological analyses were conducted to study the morphology of cryopreserved and noncryopreserved PLBs of Ascocenda Wangsa Gold. The vitrification protocol developed in this study is a feasible and safe method for strengthening the germplasm conservation of this orchid for commercial purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family of AP2/ERF plant specific transcription factors, including dehydration-responsive element binding (DREB) proteins, has been reported to activate and bind with the dehydration responsive element/C repeat (DRE/CRT) of stress-inducible gene promoters. We amplified DREB1A from Oryza sativa var. IR6 (807 bp) and subjected it to protein homology modelling and phylogenetic analysis. BLAST sequence analysis indicated high similarity (99%) with the O. sativa japonica group. Phylogenetic analysis was carried out with other 12 DREB sequences from cereals/grasses using Clustal Omega. Protein secondary structure and 3D models were determined using SOPMA and MODELLER v9.10, respectively. PROSA was used to determine the excellence and consistency of models. The results indicated that the Z-score value was -2.94 and 79.5% of the residues were found in the favoured region. A psi/phi Ramachandran plot was determined using PROCHECK. The molecular docking of the GCC-box binding domain (GBD) of the protein under investigation was done using atomic coordinates of Arabidopsis thaliana GBD- and GCC-box containing DNA, respectively. The tertiary structure of the modelled protein and template were found to be very similar as predicted by a root mean square deviation of 0.968 Å. It seemed that both the proteins interacted with the major groove of DNA using ß-sheets. We attempted to expose the molecular basis of O. sativa var. IR6 DREB1A protein interaction with the target promoter sequence. The results highlighted that this gene could be a good candidate for production of abiotic stress-tolerant crop(s) in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of supplementation of sulfur to a diet containing sodium nitrate at a level that would cause chronic nitrate poisoning on some rumen and biochemical parameters in Angora goats. A total of 18 male Angora goats were used. The animals in the control group were fed the basal diet, while the animals were fed experimental concentrate containing 1500 mg/kg sodium nitrate in the nitrate group (N) and experimental concentrate containing 1500 mg/kg sodium nitrate plus 1.8% sodium sulfate in the nitrate-sulfur group (NS) throughout the study, which lasted for 6 months. While there were no differences among groups in live weights, nitrate supplementation to the diet increased the rumen nitrate content and the blood methemoglobin (MetHb) levels and decreased plasma vitamin A and carotene in the N and NS group. The supplementation of sulfur to a diet containing high sodium nitrate alleviated the negative effects of nitrate on the blood MetHb and plasma carotene significantly (P < 0.05). The results of this study suggest that Angora goats can tolerate diets containing the high sodium nitrate levels used in the present study, except for the results in regard to blood MetHb and plasma vitamin A and carotene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to determine the effects of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatments on the fruit peel color parameters, anthocyanin content, ethylene biosynthesis, phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity of Braeburn apples. Experimental trees were treated with 1120, 2240, or 4480 mgL-1 MeJA at 1- and 2-week intervals between the 105th and 175th days of growth after full bloom. L* and hue decreased linearly with increasing MeJA concentrations in both experimental years. While MeJA treatments did not cause significant changes in chroma, except for in the final harvest in 2010, it decreased chroma values significantly on all sampling dates of 2011. Anthocyanin content, internal ethylene concentration, phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity increased linearly with increasing MeJA concentrations, regardless of the application interval: MeJA treatments with 1-week intervals were found to be as effective as those with 2-week intervals. Although MeJA treatments increased ethylene biosynthesis, they did not cause any softening; on the other hand, fruit firmness increased linearly with increasing MeJA concentrations. Preharvest MeJA treatments can be a good management strategy for red peel color development and fruit firmness preservation in Braeburn apples. Although both application regimes of MeJA significantly increased red color development, the treatments with 1-week intervals were found to be more effective than 2-week intervals with regard to phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is gaining popularity as a complementary selection tool, even though it requires an instrument not readily available in the developing world. We evaluated several parameters (originating from the analysis of digital photos using BreedPix software) as potential selection criteria in 23 winter wheat yield trials grown over 4 years at 2 sites. NDVI and digital photos were taken at key development stages from stem elongation to maturity. The correlations between digital photo parameters a and u and grain yield, as well as correlations between NDVI and grain yield within individual trials, varied depending on crop stage, moisture availability, and germplasm composition. NDVI, photo-a, and photo-u parameters had equal power in distinguishing high- and low-yielding genotypes in the trials and were significantly associated with yield in approximately 50% of all observations. The association of vegetative indices with grain yield can be improved by evaluating germplasm with a similar maturity range. An important challenge is in utilizing these tools in unreplicated small plots, including head rows where selection efficiency is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to characterize the expression the GPRC5D gene in the skin of the Liaoning Cashmere goat. Initially, the GPRC5D gene sequence was subjected to bioinformatics analysis. Second, semiquantitative RT-PCR was used to detect GPRC5D gene expression in the tissues. Third, in situ hybridization was used to locate GPRC5D gene expression in the primary and secondary hair follicles. Functional site analysis showed that GPRC5D has 7 transmembrane domains. RT-PCR showed that GPRC5D was expressed only in the skin. In situ hybridization showed that GPRC5D was expressed in the inner root sheath only. We speculated that GPRC5D may regulate cashmere growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the behavioral plasticity of flower traits has received considerable attention, its adaptive value is not thoroughly understood. We experimentally examined flower opening/closure in field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), a species with short flower persistence (1 day) in which adaptive responses to pollination were not previously expected. In line with the pollination hypothesis we suggested that flower exposure in this species should respond to pollination. More specifically, we predicted that flower closure in the pollinated flowers would be quicker than that in unpollinated flowers. As predicted, the unpollinated flowers were open for a longer time than the pollinated flowers. There was no difference, however, between the self- and cross-pollinated flowers in terms of flower longevity. There was an inverse relationship between flower longevity and fertility, which also suggests that pollination leads to reduced flower longevity. Collectively, our results suggest that field bindweed flowers respond to pollination adaptively, because prolonged flower longevity may increase the likelihood of successful pollination and flower closure reduces energy spent on flower maintenance and/or intraspecific competition with genetically familiar flowers. The behavioral plasticity of flower closure does not seem to be restricted only to plants with high flower longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New isolated teeth with maxillary and mandibular fragments from the Chinji Formation of the Lower Siwaliks are described and determined as Gaindatherium browni and Gaindatherium vidali. This material comes from the Middle Miocene of Lava and Dhok Bun Ameer Khatoon localities, northern Pakistan, and significantly increases the number of remains previously known for this rhinocerotid genus. Specimens from the Lava site determined as G. vidali present morphological differences with respect to those of G. browni, being similar to those of G. vidali from the Nagri Formation, showing a greater size. Previously, G. vidali was reported only from the Nagri Formation of the Middle Siwaliks and the new material thus significantly widens the chronological distribution of this species in the continental deposits of the Siwaliks. This record implies that both species are not successive but rather coeval during the late Middle Miocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary supplementation effects of 0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% glutamine were investigated on the performance and development of the gastrointestinal tract in broilers reared under hot conditions. No significant differences were observed between the treatments for feed intake and feed conversion ratio during the starter period, grower period, or entire experiment (P > 0.05). During the grower period, only 0.5% glutamine-fed birds had higher body weight gain than others (P < 0.05). For the entire period, body weight gain of 0.5% glutamine-fed birds was greater than that of 0.00% and 0.25% glutamine-fed ones (P < 0.05). Furthermore, 0.5% glutamine-fed birds showed longer villus height than other birds (P < 0.05). In the jejunum, both 0.5% and 1% glutamine consumption caused longer villus height as compared to 0.00% and 0.25% glutamine (P < 0.05). Villus height of 0.25% glutamine-fed birds was higher than that of 0.00% glutamine-fed ones (P < 0.05). None of the ileum morphological parameters were affected by glutamine supplementation (P > 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation of 0.5% glutamine improved the intestinal morphology and body weight gain of broilers under heat stress. Higher dietary glutamine (1%) increased the villus height in the jejunum but did not change the performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To carry out comparison and correlation analyses of the intervertebral disc (IVD) and vertebral body (VB) volumes in magnetic resonance (MR) images of patients with degenerated and nondegenerated lumbar discs. Materials and methods: MR images were examined retrospectively in 93 patients. Lumbar VB and IVD volumes in T1-T2 weighted sagittal MR images were calculated via the Cavalieri method, a stereological method. Volumetric changes in degenerated and nondegenerated discs were compared. Results: he percentages of degenerated IVDs were 12.9%, 12.9%, 28%, 50.5%, and 52% in discs from levels L1 to L5, respectively. here were no differences in VB volumes between the degenerated and nondegenerated groups for all lumbar vertebra levels. However, significant volumetric decreases were observed in degenerated IVDs for all lumbar vertebra levels, as compared to nondegenerated IVDs. Comparisons of VB volume and IVD volume ratios also revealed decreases, but they were significant only for levels L1 and L4. Conclusion: Disc volumes were found to be decreased, although vertebral bodies were not affected in degenerated IVD groups. However, using VB and IVD volume ratios may not always yield reliable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safflower is one of the most adapted oilseed crops to the drought-prone arid lands. This experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of water deficiency on some physiological traits such as proline content, soluble carbohydrate content, relative water content (RWC), and seed quality using 64 safflower genotypes grown under normal and water-deficient field conditions. Plants were grown under normal irrigation until the branching growth stage, when water deficiency was applied to the plants. Results of combined analysis of variance showed the significant effects of genotype, water deficiency, and their interactions on the tested traits. RWC, seed oil content, and oil yield significantly decreased whereas proline, soluble carbohydrate, and protein content increased in response to water deficiency. Cluster analysis divided genotypes into 3 groups of sensitive, tolerant, and semitolerant genotypes under water-deficient conditions. The second group (tolerant group) possessed the lowest seed yield loss due to water stress and produced the highest seed protein content and seed oil yield under water-deficient conditions. The superior seed yield and quality was closely related to the physiological properties of the plants, resulting in higher leaf proline, carbohydrate, and RWC under water-deficient conditions. The results suggest that leaf proline content, carbohydrate content, and RWC would be useful traits to select for water stress-tolerant plants in safflower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate choroidal thickness in healthy Turkish subjects. Materials and methods: Refraction, axial length (AXL) measurement, anterior chamber, and fundus examinations were performed. Eyes that had any retinal or choroidal pathology were excluded from the study. Enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography was used to evaluate choroidal thickness. Results: 139 eyes from 70 subjects were investigated. The mean age, AXL, spherical equivalent refractive error (SE), and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SCT) were 34.7 ± 12.7 years, 23.31 ± 0.91 mm, --0.15 ± 1.64 diopters (D), and 326 ± 60 µm, respectively. A negative correlation was found between SCT and AXL (P = 0.043). The mean age, SE, AXL, and SCT were 31.7 ± 9.3 and 34.6 ± 14.3 years, --0.27 ± 1.45 and 0.02 ± 1.89 D, 23.52 ± 0.94 and 23.02 ± 0.75 mm, and 324 ± 69 and 329 ± 40 µm in male and female subjects, respectively (P = 0.14, P = 0.31, P = 0.001, and P = 0.58, respectively). Regression analysis showed that SCT decreased by 0.93 µm for each year of age. Conclusion: In healthy Turkish subjects, SCT decreased by 0.93 µm for each year of age and was thicker in men when the results were adjusted according to AXL measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]