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This research aims to evaluate ammoniated corn straw's nutritional content and determine the best urea dose. Corn straw is one of the alternative feed sources from waste in the livestock industry. They contain crude 6.38%protein, 30.19%crude fibre, 2.81%crude fat, 51.69% EMWN, 8.94%ash, 53.12%TDN, 22.5% hemicellulose, 10.6% lignin, and 32.9% cellulose. However, the nutritional quality of corn straw can be affected by various factors, such as the high lignin content. It can bind to cellulose and hemicellulose, reducing digestibility and utilization as animal feed, so it needs to be processed first, one of which is ammoniation technology using urea. This research used 500 grams of corn straw and urea for the ammoniation process based on dry matter (DM) of corn straw for urea doses. The research designed by a complete randomized design (CRD) consisting of 4 treatments and 4 replications, namely T1= only corn straw (control), T2= corn straw with 2% urea, T3= corn straw with 4% urea and T4= corn straw with 6% urea. The variables measured were crude fiber, crude fat,, and TDN. The results showed that urea used in the ammoniation process of corn straw showed a significant effect (P

The objective of this work was to evaluate the mass yield for silage, its nutritive value and the grain yield of 15 maize cultivars. The experiments were carried out in the 2022/2023 harvest, in Mococa, Tatuí and Votuporanga. There were plots of six lines of five meters, with four replications, in a randomized block design. There was interaction (p>F) between cultivars and locations for plant height (AP), dry matter yield (PMS), grain yields at ensilage (PGS) and at maturity (PGM), starch content, acid detergent fiber (FDA) and neutral detergent fiber (FDNom). It is interesting to note that the cultivar AG 8701 PRO3 showed a high potential for milk yield per hectare in the three locations, indicating its productive stability in different soil and climate conditions, while other cultivars performed differently depending on the environment. The average dry matter productivity was 20.99 t.ha-1 in Mococa, 19.06 t.ha-1 in Tatuí and 15.38 t.ha-1 in Votuporanga. The grain productivity at the time of ensiling was 8.49, 7.00 and 6.23 t.ha-1 for Mococa, Tatuí and Votuporanga, respectively, these grains being of great importance in the nutritional value of the forage, due to the presence of starch, positively influencing milk yield per ton of dry matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Authenticity and traceability are two issues of great importance to quality and food safety in the food industry. For wine producers and authorities, it is essential to know how to detect adulterations because wine is one of the alcoholic beverages most prone to adulteration, as indicated by the European Commission. Fondillón is one of the most important naturally sweet Spanish wines and is certainly the core of the Alicante PDO. Fondillón is a wine that is prone to be adulteration due to its limited production and high price. The aim of this study was to identify potential markers of Fondillón adulteration by mixing it with other Monastrell wines. The experimental results showed that Fondillón is characterized by high concentrations of acetic acid, furfural, benzaldehyde, vitispirane, and TDN and low concentrations of citric, tartaric, and malic acids; a low total phenolic content; and low values of antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to develop models for predicting the amount of feces and urine excreted by Japanese Black fattening steer using a dataset of 119 digestion trials for a total of 46 animals. Correlation analysis was used to analyze the relationships between feces and urine excretion and feed intake, feed digestibility, and nitrogen balance. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to develop models for predicting the amount of feces and urine excreted using the explanatory variables selected from various animal and dietary parameters based on P‐value (<0.10) and variance inflation factor (<3.0). Resultingly, dry matter intake was a primary predictor of feces excreted. The prediction equation for the amount of feces excretion as a function of body weight, dry matter intake, and calculated total digestible nutrients fits the data well (adjusted coefficient of determination [adj R2] = 0.519, root mean square error = 1.57). Furthermore, the nitrogen content in the urine was the primary predictor of the urine excretion amount. Thus, the prediction equation for the amount of urine excreted using the nitrogen content in urine yielded a highly accurate model (adj R2 = 0.813, root mean square error = 4.12). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forage production is the main product of rangeland and a valuable tangible commodity whose economic valuation in rehabilitated rangelands, due to its direct use for grazing and livestock production, can play an important role in management planning. In this regard, the present study was conducted with the aim of economic evaluation of forage production of regenerated rangelands in arid areas in Sarbisheh City in west Khorasan province. For this purpose, the plantation projects in the west of this city were selected as Hosseinabad, Nazdasht, and Jannatabad. Then, while determining the representative area in each project, three 300- meter transects at a distance of 10 meters were established in a random-systematic manner, and during each transect produced this year, the species used for livestock were harvested by cutting and weighing. After drying the plant samples and weighing each sample, taking into account the palatability and preference value, the allowable utilization limit was determined, and the amount of available forage was determined. The hedonic method was used for the economic evaluation of forage production. For this purpose, first, a regression relationship between livestock input prices and TDN was extracted. Then, by including the TDN of rangeland species in each project, using the metabolic energy data of the National Plan for Determining the Forage Quality of Rangeland Plants, the economic value of forage production was determined. The results showed that the price of each kilogram of fodder is 10466.5 Tomans. Based on this, the economic value of forage for each hectare of rehabilitated rangelands was 318223 Tomans, and the total economic value for the rehabilitated rangelands studied was estimated to be 1,386,498,185 Tomans. The results of this study can further reveal the role of investment in rangeland and even be used to provide new solutions for the financial participation of the government and farmers. Of course, in addition to the environmental economics of rangelands, it is necessary to pay attention to their performance and ecological potential to achieve the goal of both users and managers and experts of natural resources in the long run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoselective shading is a process that modulates the radiation intensity in specific regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. It is a common practice in horticulture to manipulate specific plant physiological responses, but to date has only received minimal attention in viticulture. The potent odorant 1,1,6-trimethyl-1,2-dihydronaphthalene (TDN) is of particular relevance for aged Riesling wine, which are also known to be impacted by the magnitude of bunch zone light exposure during berry development. Hence, in this study, the effect of photoselective bunch zone shading on the formation of TDN in wine was investigated across two consecutive growing seasons. Applying red, black or green shade cloth (SC) to the bunch zone provided unique bunch zone light environments and yielded distinct differences in grape and wine composition compared with the unshaded control. Overall, bunch zone shading through shade cloth was effective in reducing overall photosynthetically active radiation compared to the control and the photoselectivity of the SC treatments differently affected a number of grape and wine measures. Fruit yield was somewhat but not significantly lower under black SC treatments, while juice pH was increased in grapes grown under green and black SC across both vintages compared to the control. Both grape sugar accumulation (P = 0.035) and ammonia nitrogen (P = 0.043) showed evidence of treatment effects, although with low F-statistics (4 and 3, respectively). Measures of hydrolytically released TDN in juice and free TDN concentrations in wine were lower in SC treatments. Unexpectedly, sensory descriptive analysis of the wines demonstrated that increased ‘kerosene-like’ aroma was not consistently associated with free TDN concentrations in wine. In summary, photoselective bunch shading was demonstrated to be an effective method for manipulating grape and wine outcomes and may aid in overcoming viticultural obstacles and quality impacts associated with climate change.

Authenticity and traceability are two issues of great importance to quality and food safety in the food industry. For wine producers and authorities, it is essential to know how to detect adulterations because wine is one of the alcoholic beverages most prone to adulteration, as indicated by the European Commission. Fondillón is one of the most important naturally sweet Spanish wines and is certainly the core of the Alicante PDO. Fondillón is a wine that is prone to be adulteration due to its limited production and high price. The aim of this study was to identify potential markers of Fondillón adulteration by mixing it with other Monastrell wines. The experimental results showed that Fondillón is characterized by high concentrations of acetic acid, furfural, benzaldehyde, vitispirane, and TDN and low concentrations of citric, tartaric, and malic acids; a low total phenolic content; and low values of antioxidant activity.

Infectious bursal disease (IBD) is considered as menace as it affects poultry industry globally causing immunosuppression, high mortality and heavy economic loss. Outbreaks of IBD were reported in many states of India including Kerala. VP1 gene acts as an important factor in the process of virus encapsidation and its involvement in viral virulence and viral replication indicates its importance in infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV). The present study was conducted to carry out the molecular characterization of VP1 gene of virulent IBDV in Kerala. A total of 42 samples were processed for the detection and analysis of VP1 gene of IBDV. Out of 42 samples, 21 samples were positive for VP1 gene of IBD. The phylogenetic analysis of the partial VP1 gene sequences reveals the clustering of IBDV isolates into very virulent IBDV (vvIBDV) and non-virulent IBDV (vIBDV). Eighteen isolates (11 isolates from vaccinated flock and 7 from non-vaccinated flocks) clustered with very virulent strains. Three isolates (2 isolates were from vaccinated flock and 1 from non-vaccinated flock) clustered with non-virulent IBDV strains, showing more evolutionarily similarity to south Indian strain VCN14/ABT/MVC/India. It is observed that vvIBDV isolates from this study have common ancestor with the south Indian strain PY12 but showed 9–10% divergence from this strains. The amino acid analysis of these 21 isolates revealed that 17 isolates possessed the characteristic vvIBDV TDN amino acid triplet, while the three isolates had non-vIBDV NEG amino acid triplet at 145/146/147 position. The remaining isolate 1/CVASP/IBDV/VP1 shows unique PDN triplet instead of TDN. Two vvIBDV isolates (15/CVASP/IBDV/VP1 and 18/CVASP/IBDV/VP1) showed 100% nucleotide and amino acid similarity with intermediate plus vaccine strain. Four vvIBDV isolates showed neutral amino acid substitution K251R which was earlier reported in Indian strains but first time in south Indian isolates. The most common unique amino acid substitution observed in our study was neutral E269D amino acid substitution in 12 isolates, neutral amino acid substitution T329S in five isolates, neutral T174N and non-polar to polar amino acid substitution A178T in isolate 10/CVASP/IBDV/VP1, non-polar to polar amino acid substitution P360R in isolate 17/CVASP/IBDV/VP1 and non-polar to polar amino acid substitution P188S in isolate 1/CVASP/IBDV/VP1. These novel mutations in our study reveal the role of genetic drift in the evolution of vvIBDV strains. The isolate 2/CVASP/IBDV/VP1 from non-vaccinated flock shows VP1 gene of non-vIBDV, but possessing VP2 of vvIBDV type indicates this is evolved by genetic shift of segments A and B. This is the first genetic characterization study of field VP1 gene of IBDV isolates in Kerala, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRAK. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji nilai kecernaan bahan kering (KcBK), kecernaan bahan organik (KcBO), kecernaan lemak kasar (KcLK) dan total digestible nutrient (TDN) dari hijauan pakan kambing. Percobaan menggunakan rancangan acak kelompok (RAK) terdiri dari 7 jenis hijauan pakan sebagai perlakuan dengan 3 kelompok cairan rumen kambing Jawarandu yang diambil pada waktu dan kambing yang berbeda. Perlakuan meliputi : R1 : daun indigofera; R2 : daun insulin; R3 : daun jambu Biji; R4 : daun melinjo; R5 : daun rambutan; R6 : daun singkong; R7 : daun waru. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perbedaan jenis hijauan pakan memberikan pengaruh nyata (P0,05) terhadap kecernaan bahan kering (KcBK), kecernaan bahan organik (KcBK), kecernaan lemak kasar (KcLK) dan total digestible nutrient (TDN). Simpulan penelitian diperoleh bahwa kecernaan bahan kering (KcBK), kecernaan bahan organik (KcBO), kecernaan lemak kasar (KcLK) dan total digestible nutrients (TDN) dipengaruhi oleh kandungan protein, lemak, karbohidrat hijauan pakan pada ternak kambing. (Digestibility of dry matters, organic matters, crude lipid and total digestible nutrients of forage for goats) ABSTRACT. The objectives of this research to evaluate digestibility of dry matter (DMD), organic matter (OMD), crude fat (CFD) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) of various forages for goat. The experimental design used randomized block design (RBD) which consists of 7 types of forages as treatment with 3 different groups of rumen fluid of Jawarandu goats taken at different times and goats. The treatments were R1: indigofera leaves; R2: insulin leaves; R3: guava leaves; R4: melinjo leaves; R5: rambutan leaves; R6: cassava leaves; R7: waru leaves. The results indicated that the different types of forages have significant effects (P 0.05) on digestibility of dry matter (DMD), organic matter (OMD), crude fat \ (CFD) and total digestible nutrient (TDN). The research concluded that dry matter digestibility (DMD), organic matter digestibility (ODM), crude fat digestibility (CFD) and total digestible nutrients (TDN) were affected by protein, fat, and carbohydrate contains of various forages for goat.

In the present study, the histological effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TDN) on testicular tissue of mature Mus musculus mice was investigated. The animals were divided into six groups, control group treated with TDN free saline and five groups treated with TDN as follow 5, 10, 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg B.W. The results showed that TDN has histological effects on testicular tissue like sever congestion, mild edema between seminiferous tubules (STs) and decrease the thickness of germinal epithelium at low concentrations, While, the histological changes at high concentrations involved disturbance in STs diameters, sever edema between STs, sever vaculation in the germinal epithelium and necrosis in spermatogonia, germinal epithelium and Sertoli cells.

1,1,6-Trimethyl-1,2-dihydronaphthalene (TDN), an aroma compound present in wine, is used for sensory and physicochemical analyses. Therefore, synthesis of TDN of high purity is required for these purposes. Optimization of TDN synthesis in order to facilitate its subsequent purification was described. As a result, ≥99.5 % of TDN purity was reached. • The possibility of using both α-ionone and β-ionone as starting substances was demonstrated • Modifications of the use of reagents in the second and third steps of TDN synthesis were proposed

A shift in natural hydrologic patterns, such as increases in the frequency, and changes in the magnitude of flood events are expected with climate change. A better understanding of how land use and hydrological patterns interact to affect solute levels in aquatic systems is needed so we can better navigate expected climatic changes. Here we analyzed spatiotemporal event-based data from 21 predominantly agricultural catchments with varying contributions of natural land cover. We studied the effect of hydrological events on stream dissolved phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations and dissolved organic matter (DOM) composition and bioavailability over 4 years. Our results suggest that flow regime and flood condition control stream DOM composition, nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics, modulated by seasonal processes and land use properties, like soil organic carbon content. Although higher flows generally increased solute concentrations as well as the fraction of terrestrial, humic-like DOM, this pattern was highly dependent on the catchment land use and event timing. General additive models indicated a threshold of about 30–40% natural land cover, below which DOC and nutrients showed a positive relationship with discharge, but when more than 30–40% natural features (for example, wetlands, woodlots and grasslands) were present in the catchments, this shifted to a negative relationship. This suggests that in agricultural landscapes, the presence of natural land cover is important as it can decrease solute concentrations in streams and may act as a buffer, mitigating the effect of floods on DOM and nutrient export rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of manure at saline soil on forage production, quality and livestock carrying capacity of P. maximum and S. grandiflora. The research was conducted on moderately saline soil at Rembang Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia. Randomized complete block design was used as design experiment. The treatments were different dosage of manure as organic amendment (0, 10 and 20 tonnes/ha). Forage crops were P. maximum and S. grandiflora that planted monoculture or mixed-cropping. Parameters measured were dry matter (DM) production, ash, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extract, total digestible nutrients. P. maximum was cut eight times, S. grandiflora was cut six times during one year. The result showed that the highest total dry matter production of mixed cropping P. maximum and S. grandiflora was available at moderately saline soil with application 20 ton/ha manure. Total production of dry matter, crude protein and total digestible nutrient available at application 20 ton/ha manure were 29131 kg/ha/year; 3722 kg/ha/year and 17718 kg/ha/year, respectively. Carrying capacity based on dry matter, crude protein and total digestible nutrients were 10.8 AU/ha/year; 13.6 AU/ha/year and 11.3 AU/ha/year, respectively. In conclusion, application of 20 ton/ha manure at saline soil increased production, crude protein and carrying capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TDN) one of the most common nanomaterial used in a wide range of applications. Moringa oleifera leaves extract (MOLE) has hepato- and nephron-protective effects amongst other medicinal and nutritional benefits. Vitamin E (Vit. E) is an important lipid soluble vitamin. Aim: The present work aimed to study hepato-renal toxicity of TDN in adult male albino rats through biochemical and histopathological study and protective effects of either MOLE or Vit. E or both. Materials and Methods: 49 adult male albino rats were divided randomly into 7 groups (7 rats each). Group 1: served as control, Group 2: Rats received (MOLE) once daily by oral gavage Group 3: Rats received (Vit. E) once daily by oral gavage Group 4: Rats received TDN subcutaneous on alternate days Group 5: Rats coadministrated TDN and MOLE Group 6: Rats co-administrated TDN and (Vit. E), Group 7: Rats coadministrated TDN, (MOLE) and vitamin E. All groups received the treatment for four weeks, then blood samples were collected for assessment of liver function markers and kidney function markers. Also, Liver and kidney were excised for histopathological examination. Results and Conclusion: TDN treated animals recorded a significant increase in ALT, AST. ALP, total bilirubin, urea and creatinine and a significant decrease in total protein. Significant improvement occurred on co-administration of either (MOLE) or (Vit.E) or both. Histopathological lesion in both liver and kidney which were observed in TDN treated animals improved on co-administration of either (MOLE) or (Vit. E) or both. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel electrochemiluminescence (ECL) aptasensor based on tetrahedral DNA nanostructures (TDN) and CdTe QDs was fabricated for the detection of acetamiprid residues. Three TDNs with different sizes were successfully designed and synthesized. The unique and rigid tetrahedral structure of TDN can ensure that the biological probe always maintains the orientation perpendicular to the sensing interface, greatly reducing the background noise and effectively improving the signal-to-noise ratio. It has great significance to improve the order of the probe on the sensing interface. The ECL signals of TDN with different sizes were compared with the conventional aptasensors (c-DNA) modified by single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). The results displayed that TDN can effectively amplify the sensor's ECL signal, the size of TDN was negatively correlated with the amplification coefficient and hybridization time of aptamer. Compared various parameters of the c-DNA sensor and TDN 13 sensor which with the highest signal. The linear range of the TDN 13 sensor is 0.100 pM∼100 nM, the detection limit is 34.0 fM. The linear range of the c-DNA sensor is 1.00 pM∼10.0 nM, the detection limit is 178 fM. TDN 13 sensor was applied to measure acetamiprid residues in Chinese cabbage samples with satisfactory results. • TDN can improve the signal-to-noise ratio of c-DNA sensor. • The ECL intensity of TDN sensor is greater than that of c-DNA sensor. • Explored relationship between TDN's size and ECL signals' amplification coefficient. • The introduction of TDN could greatly shorten the time of sensor's construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of three vegetative stage cuts schemes (Without cut; one cut and two cuts), production and nutritional aspects of five winter cereals, harvested for silage production. Cereals used were the wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. BRS Blue Jay), barley (Hordeum vulgare CV. BRS Brau), oats (Avena sativa cv URS Guará), black oats (Avena strigosa cv. Embrapa 139) and triticale (X Triticosecale cv. IPR 11). For the mass of total dry forage, the increase in the number of cuts generated reduction in production for all cereals. The triticale presented the greatest productive stability, since there were no differences (P > 0.05) for the blunt (12,317 kg DM/ha) and with a cut (11,944 kg DM/ha). The scheme of cuts influenced the morphological components, because there was a reduction of the culm and leaf percentages and increased the percentage of cob and the amount of senescent leaves towards the leaves. The TDN levels were not influenced negatively by cutting regimes, with the exception of white oats. For cereals, barley evaluated presented minor values (P < 0.05) of ADF (333.5; 359.2 and 314.2 g/kg DM) and higher values of TDN at the time, independent of the silage cutting regime. Triticale can be used in a vegetative stage and silage production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

‘Dacheongok’, a new maize F1 hybrid (Zea mays L.), is developed by the maize breeding team at the National Institute of Crop Science (NICS), RDA in 2016. The high-yielding hybrid, named ‘Dacheongok’ was bred by crossing between two inbred lines, ‘KS197’ and ‘KS202’. It is a yellow dent maize hybrid. After advanced yield trial of ‘Dacheongok’ in Suwon for one year, regional yield trial was subsequently carried out for evaluation of its growth and yield at four different locations from 2014 to 2016. The days to silking of ‘Dacheongok’ are 80, similar to ‘Kwangpyeongok’. The plant height of ‘Dacheongok’ is 267 cm, similar to ‘Kwangpyeongok’, and its ear height ratio is 51%, similar with that of ‘Kwangpyeongok’. It has resistance to lodging. The stay-green of ‘Dacheongok’ is not different with that of ‘Kwangpyeongok’. The number of ear per 100 plants of ‘Dacheongok’ is 95, similar to ‘Kwangpyeongok’. The ear length of ‘Dacheongok’ is 18.6 cm, longer than that of ‘Kwangpyeongok’. The weight of 100 seeds of ‘Dacheongok’ is 29.8 g, similar to that of ‘Kwangpyeongok’. It has moderate resistance to southern leaf blight (Bipolaris maydis). It has moderate resistance to European Corn Borer (Ostrinia nubilalis). The dry matter yield (23.69 ton/ha) of ‘Dacheongok’ was 10% higher than that of ‘Kwangpyeongok’. The TDN (Total Digestible Nutrients) yield (16.11 ton/ha) of ‘Dacheongok’ was 7% higher than that of ‘Kwangpyeongok’. The seed production of ‘Dacheongok’ was acceptable due to a good synchronization of flowering period during crossing between the seed parent, KS197, and the pollen parent, KS202, in Yeongwol and F1 seed yield was 2.46 ton/ha. ‘Dacheongok’ would be a suitable cultivar to all plain area in Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • New deuterium-labeled TDN specimen for stable isotope dilution assay (SIDA). • Short synthetic pathway and simple work-up procedures. • Inexpensive and readily available reagents. • >99% Chemical purity was achieved upon standard work-up/isolation procedure (distillation). We report an economical and readily scalable synthesis of 1,1,6-trimethyl-1,2-dihydronaphthalene-5,7,8-D 3 (TDN-D 3), a novel deuterium-labeled specimen for stable isotope dilution assay. TDN-D 3 was obtained in four simple steps with 25% overall yield and > 99% chemical purity, starting from commercially available and inexpensive reagents. The described method does not require additional purification procedures (e.g. HPLC or even column chromatography), and the complete synthesis can be performed in three part-time working days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TDN) are widely used in paints, plastics, ceramics, cosmetics, printing ink, rubber and paper. Tiron is a water soluble metal chelator and antioxidant. This study was designed to investigate the reproductive toxicity of TDN in male albino rats and the ameliorative role of Tiron to minimize such toxic effects. Eighty adult male albino rats were assigned into 4 equal groups, group 1: control; group 2: received TDN at 100 mg/kg/day orally for 8 weeks; group 3: received Tiron at 470 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally for 2 weeks (the last 2 weeks of the experimental period); group 4: received both TDN and Tiron by the same previously mentioned dose, route and duration. The results revealed that TDN provoked reproductive toxicity which was proved by the deteriorated spermogram picture, high incidence of micronucleated RBCs, elevated oxidative stress parameters and up regulation of Testin gene. Whereas, Tiron co-treatment ameliorated most of these toxic alterations. Our findings highlighted the protective role of tiron against TDN intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Anoa is potential to be developed as a meat-producing animal. Studies on its preference to certain feed types and form is essential as an initial effort to conserve and cultivate anoa as livestock using feed processing technology. This study was aimed to evaluate the anoa’s feed preference to feed physical form, which was processed through feed processing/preserving technology. Latin square design with 3 treatments, and 3 replications was used in this study. The treatments were three different feed form, i.e. fresh, hay and wafers. Three anoas used as replications. Eating behaviour (eating, rumination upon standing, lying and wallowing), total feed consumptions, total dung, protein and crude fibre content of feed were observed. The results showed that the anoa’s feed in the ex situ area could be prepared in the form of wafers with protein content, crude fibre and total digestible nutrient of 8.11, 23.11 and 72.85%, respectively. Total digestible nutrients of wafer-shaped feed was higher than fresh and dry feed (72.85 vs 62.25, 60.88%). It could be recommended that wafer feed could be applied in anoa ex situ conservation and cultivation. (Animal Production 12(3): 150-155 (2010)Key words: anoa, feed preference, wafer, TDN, anoa cultivation

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da adição de cal virgem e Lactobacillus buchneri em perdas fermentativas, valor nutritivo, estabilidade aeróbia e digestibilidade aparente da silagem de cana-de-açúcar (Saccharum officinarum). O primeiro experimento avaliou perdas fermentativas, pH e temperatura, composição química e digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca de silagens de cana-de-açúcar, com adição ou sem adição de cal ou de inoculante bacteriano (L. buchneri); o segundo avaliou o consumo de matéria seca e a digestibilidade aparente da cana-de-açúcar ensilada com os mesmos aditivos para cordeiros. Os aditivos não reduziram as perdas na ensilagem, e silagens com cal apresentaram maiores perdas por efluentes. O consumo de matéria seca da silagem com inoculante foi inferior ao da silagem com cal ou ao da cana-de-açúcar in natura. A digestibilidade aparente da matéria seca da silagem com cal foi inferior à da cana-de-açúcar in natura e à da silagem com inoculante. A digestibilidade aparente do extrato etéreo das silagens com cal foi superior à da cana-de-açúcar in natura. Os valores de nutrientes digestíveis totais da cana-de-açúcar in natura ou ensilada com inoculante ou cal foram de 61,2, 54,1 e 51,7%, respectivamente. Independentemente do aditivo, a ensilagem da cana-de-açúcar resulta em perda de nutrientes e redução de digestibilidade.The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence addition whitewash (CaO) and Lactobacillus buchneri in fermentation losses, nutritional value, aerobic stability and apparent digestibility of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) silages. A first experiment evaluated fermentation losses, pH and temperature values, chemical composition and in vitro dry matter digestibility of sugarcane silages with or without bacterial inoculants (L. buchneri) or CaO. A second experiment evaluated intake and apparent digestibility of sugarcane silage with the same additives to sheep. The additives did not reduce silage losses, and silages with CaO presented greater effluent losses. The intake of silage with inoculant was lower than of silage with CaO and in natura sugarcane. Dry matter apparent digestibility of CaO silage was lower than that of in natura sugarcane and of silage with inoculant. Greater values were observed in ether extract for silage treated with CaO when compared to in natura sugarcane. Total digestible nutrients values of in natura sugarcane and of silage with inoculant or CaO were 61.2, 54.1, and 51.7%, respectively. Regardless of the additive, sugarcane ensilage results in nutrient loss and in reduced digestibility.

O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento completamente casualizado com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito da densidade de compactação, 500 kg (médio) e 600 kg (alto) de matéria verde por metro cúbico de massa ensilada, na qualidade final da silagem em relação ao material original. A ensilagem de milho safrinha foi realizada no dia 18/05/2004 em minissilos, com quatro repetições por grau de compactação, quando os grãos de milho se encontravam no estádio ½ leitoso ½ farináceo. As densidades de compactação afetaram significativamente os teores de açúcares solúveis (1,60 ´ 2,15% da MS), matéria orgânica do resíduo insolúvel em etanol a 80% (76,02 ´ 71,53% da MS), carboidratos não-estruturais (39,21 ´ 41,70% dos carboidratos totais), fibra em detergente neutro corrigida para cinzas e proteína (52,57 ´ 50,37% da MS), lignina em detergente ácido (2,74 ´ 2,57% da MS) e nitrogênio amoniacal (4,35 ´ 3,84% do nitrogênio total). A maior densidade de compactação resultou em melhor conservação dos glicídios solúveis, em menor alteração dos carboidratos estruturais e em menor proteólise na silagem de milho.The experiment in a complete randomized design aimed to test the effect of two packing densities, 500 kg (medium) and 600 kg (high) of silage mass per cubic meter, on silage quality as compared to the original fresh material. Silages were prepared on May 18th, 2004 from a late season harvest of a maize crop at the half milky half dough kernel stage. Chopped materials with 1.2 cm theoretical particle size were packed manually in 30 liters mini-silos, in four replicates for each packing density, immediately after harvest. The different packing densities affected significantly the concentration of soluble sugars (1.60 vs. 2.15% of DM), 80% ethanol insoluble organic matter (76.02 vs. 71.53% of DM), non-structural carbohydrates (39.21 vs. 41.70% of total carbohydrates), neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (52.57 vs. 50.37% of DM), acid detergent lignin (2.74 vs. 2.57% of DM), and ammonia-nitrogen (4.35 vs. 3.84% of total nitrogen), respectively, for the "medium" and "high" packing densities. A higher ensiling packing density improved the conservation of soluble sugars, altered less the structural carbohydrates and reduced proteolysis in maize silage.

The objective was to evaluate the productivity, morphological and chemical composition, in addition to the economic viability of the corn crop (Zea mays L.) for the production of silage under different levels of nitrogen and potassium fertilization in coverage. Treatments consisted of four coverage levels: T1 (217 kg ha-1 N + 137 kg ha-1 K2O); T2 (295 kg ha-1 N + 163 kg ha-1 K2O); T3 (374 kg ha-1 N + 190 kg ha-1 K2O); and T4 (452 kg ha-1 N + 216 kg ha-1 of K2O). It was found that the fertilization level had no effect (P > 0.05) in the parameters related to plant height, height of the first insertion spike and grain production, however, higher (P < 0.05) dry biomass production was obtained with 374 kg ha-1 N + 190 kg ha-1 coverage K2O (32,346 kg ha-1). For TDN and FRV parameters, higher values (P < 0.05), respectively, were observed for 374 kg ha-1 N + 190 kg ha-1 K2O (71.30% and 132.0) and 452 kg ha-1 N + 216 kg ha-1 K2O (71.14% and 131.6) coverage fertilization. However, the lower level had the lowest cost per ton of TDN ha-1 produced. Overall, the P30R50HY corn hybrid showed high productivity and adequate nutritional characteristics when grown in minimum coverage level fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to evaluate the productive, nutritional and bioeconomic aspects of six corn hybrids for silage: SG 6030 YG, LG 6036 PRO, LG 6038 PRO, BRAS 3010, PL 6880 and PL 1335. Regarding the productive aspect, there was a significant difference (p<0.05) between the materials, and the SG 6030 YG, LG 6036 PRO, LG 6038 PRO hybrids, had the highest dry biomass (29,457; 28,089 and 25,609 kg ha-1, respectively) and grains production (12,360; 11,426 and 11,405 kg ha-1, respectively). It can be seen, from the nutritional aspect that there were no statistical difference (p>0.05) among the silages of the hybrids evaluated for MM values, CP, ADF, HEM and TDN having averaged 1.78%, 6.03% , 28.86%, 27.11% and 67.42% DM, respectively. However, NDF values were lower for the LG 6038 PRO hybrids, SG 6030 YG and PL 6880 (54.92%, 54.13% and 54.04%, respectively). The hybrids which obtained the highest yields (LG 6038 and LG 6036 PRO PRO) also showed better bioeconomic results, with costs of R$ 48.56 and R$ 48.80 per ton of NM, respectively. Thus, the LG 6038 PRO, PRO LG 6036 and SG 6030 YG hybrid are recommended for silage in the central-southern region of Paraná. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient leaching in intensively cultivated soils has deleterious agronomical and environmental impacts. We assessed volumes and chemical properties of the solution percolated through soils unamended or amended with biochar, compost or their mixture. We performed an 18-month experiment in lysimeters filled with 503 kg of a sandy soil in which single 1-year old nectarine trees were grown. In a randomized experimental design with 4 replicates the following soil-applied strategies were compared with an unamended control: (a) hardwood-derived biochar (20 g kg −1 ), (b) compost (77 g kg −1 ) and (c) biocompost (mixture of the previous two treatments). Soil leachate was daily collected and monthly cumulated for the first 12 months from the trial establishment. Thereafter, leachate was also collected (for one month) after 18 months amendment incorporation. Monthly, leachate subsamples were analyzed for chemical concentration and data were used to estimate losses through leaching referred to the soil volume of 1 ha. The amendment with compost contributed to increase soil water retention capacity while mixing compost with biochar resulted even more effective, suggesting a positive interaction. Biochar significantly decreased the leaching volume in 4 (out of 12) months compared with the unamended soil. The cumulative amounts of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), total dissolved nitrogen (TDN), mineral N (mainly under Nitrate-N (NO 3 − -N)) and elements leached out were overall increased in compost-treated soils (either with or without biochar) as a consequence of easily soluble organic compounds supplied with the composted biomasses. We observed a synergism between the two amendments which in turn promoted the leaching of DOC and cumulative amount of TDN, although the source of these extra rates remains uncertain. Ag, Be, Cd, Sb, Ti and Tl were never detected in the leachate while Al, As, Co, Hg, Pb, Sn and V were detected in traces. However, the concentration remained below the limits for drinking water. Independently of the amendment, the most abundant elements leached during the first year of experiment were in average Calcium (614 kg ha −1 ), Sulphur (359 kg ha −1 ) and Sodium (224 kg ha −1 ) which coincided with the elements most supplied with irrigation and rain water. This should be taken into account in the fertilization recommendations. Despite compost promoted the loss of minerals through leaching, our results indicate that biochar and compost of high quality and even their mixture, could be adopted as a sustainable agronomical strategy, since they did not represent potential source of heavy metals for groundwater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of corn genotypes available in the market is of great interest for producers and researchers of the animal and agronomic science. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the productive and qualitative potential of corn hybrids for silage production. The treatments consisted of six corn hybrids: DKB-215, DKB-344, C-747, AS-32, BR-201 and OC-705. The variables analyzed were: height (m), fresh and dry matter yields (FMY and DMY, t ha-1), contribution of each structural component of the plant (stem, leaves and ears), dry matter content (DM), pH, ammoniacal nitrogen as percentage of the total nitrogen (NH3-N%/TN), cell wall composition (NDF, HEM, ADF, CEL, ADL), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), total carbohydrates (TC), non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC), digestible neutral detergent fiber (NDFd), digestibility of the neutral detergent fiber (DNDF), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and total digestible nutrient (TDN). A randomized block design, with six treatments and four replicates was used. The FMY and DMY differed (P 0.05) among silage of the different hybrids. Silage of the hybrid DKB-344 showed smaller percentage of NDF and ADF. The silage of the hybrids DKB-215 and DKB-344 had higher digestibility (DNDF and IVDMD) and energy content (TDN). Silage of all hybrids presented adequate fermentative process. However, in the univariate analysis of variance, DKB-344 hybrid showed higher yield and better quality, while in the multivariate analysis of variance, DKB-215 hybrid was the most recommended for the silage production.

O estudo foi conduzido para estimar os valores energéticos (NDT) de vários alimentos, concentrados e volumosos e validar as equações propostas pelo NRC (2001) por meio da comparação dos valores estimados por estas equações, com os observados, obtidos a partir da coleta total de fezes. Foram avaliados cinco alimentos concentrados (farelo de trigo, farelo de soja, fubá de milho, grão de soja e caroço de algodão) e cinco volumosos (feno de capim-braquiária, silagem de milho, silagem pré-seca de capim-tifton, silagem de capim-elefante e capim-elefante) utilizando-se 20 novilhos mestiços HolandêsxZebu. O procedimento de validação das variáveis avaliadas foi realizado por intermédio do ajuste do modelo de regressão linear simples dos valores preditos e observados. Os valores de NDT dos alimentos concentrados e volumosos observados e preditos pelas equações do NRC (2001) foram similares (P>0,05). Conclui-se que as equações do NRC (2001) foram adequadas para estimar o valor energético dos alimentos nas condições brasileiras.This research was developed to estimate the energy values (TDN) of feeds, concentrate and roughage, through equations proposed by NRC (2001) and validate from the comparison among TDN values estimated by these equations and those observed in the total collection feces. Five concentrate feeds (wheat bran, soybean meal, corn ground, whole soybean and whole cotton seed) an five roughage feeds (brachiaria hay, corn silage, tifton haylage, elephant grass silage and elephantgrass) were evaluated by using 20 crossbred Holstein x Zebu steers. The procedure to validate the variables evaluated was done by adjusting models of simple linear regression using predicted and observed values. The observed and predicted value of TDN values for roughage and concentrate feeds were similar (P>0,05). It was concluded that the equations proposed by NRC (2001) were efficient to estimate the TDN values of feeds under brazilian conditions.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da substituição do milho pela farinha de mandioca de varredura, em dietas de cabras Saanen em lactação, sobre o desempenho, a composição do leite (sólidos totais e proteína bruta), a digestibilidade da matéria seca (MS), matéria orgânica (MO), proteína bruta (PB), extrato etéreo (EE), fibra insolúvel em detergente neutro (FDN), e amido e a concentração dos nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) das dietas. Foram utilizadas quatro cabras há 100 dias em lactação. O delineamento utilizado foi o quadrado latino 4 x 4, em que os tratamentos consistiram em níveis de 0, 33, 67 e 100% de substituição do milho pela farinha de varredura. Os tratamentos não influenciaram a ingestão, excreção fecal, digestão total e a digestibilidade total da MS, MO, PB, FDN e carboidratos não-fibrosos (CNF). Houve diminuição linear na excreção fecal e aumento na digestibilidade do amido, com a inclusão da farinha de mandioca de varredura. O NDT não diferiu entre as dietas estudadas, com média de 71,59%. Houve correlação positiva entre a digestibilidade da matéria orgânica (DIGMO) e o NDT (r = 0,9472), permitindo estimativas do NDT a partir da equação NDT (%) = 0,8897DIGMO (%) + 10,9940 (R²=0,8972). A substituição da farinha da mandioca de varredura não alterou a produção, bem como a composição do leite. Recomenda-se a utilização da farinha de mandioca de varredura em dietas de cabras em lactação, em total substituição ao milho, sem prejuízos na digestibilidade dos nutrientes e na produção.The objectives of this work were to evaluate effects of replacing corn by cassava by-product meal, in diets of Saanen lactating goats, on milk production and composition (total solids and crude protein), nutrient apparent digestibility and total digestible nutrients (TDN) of diets. Four multiparous goats fitted with ruminal cannula, with 100 days of lactation, were used. The design was a 4 x 4 Latin square and treatments as following: 0, 33, 67 and 100% replacement of corn by cassava by-product meal. Treatments did not affect intake, fecal flow and dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral fiber detergent (NDF) and non-fiber carbohydrate (NFC) total digestion (AD) and total digestibility (DIG). There was a linear fecal flow decrease and a starch digestibility increase with cassava by-product meal inclusion. TDN did not differ among diets with an average of 71.59%. There was a positive correlation (r = 0.9472) between OMDIG and TDN, making possible TDN estimation from the equation: TDN (%) = 0.8897OMDIG (%) + 10.9940 (R² = 0.8972). Cassava by-product inclusion did not affect milk production and composition (total solids and crude protein). These results permit to recommend inclusion of cassava by-product in goat lactating diets, in total replacement of corn without problems related to nutrient digestibility and milk production.

The article examines the condition of nutritional practices and daily digestible crude protein (DCP) availability for domestic cows found in rural ecology of north-western Indo-Gangetic plains in India and Bangladesh.

Sports and orthopaedic physical therapists have long used a multitude of techniques in order to address pain and dysfunction associated with myofascial trigger points. One technique in particular has recently received overwhelming attention: trigger point dry needling (DN). Despite its efficacy and low risk, questions remain as to its effectiveness, safety, and whether the technique is within the scope of practice of physical therapists. Therefore, the purpose of this clinical commentary is to summarize the current literature related to the associated mechanisms of action of DN, the safety of DN, as well as to discuss relevant scope of practice concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Este experimento foi realizado para avaliar a digestibilidade in vivo e os nutrientes digestíveis totais (NDT) de camas de frango formadas por diferentes materiais absorventes. Vinte carneiros castrados da raça Morada Nova foram alojados em gaiolas metabólicas e arreados com sacolas para coleta total de fezes. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos e cinco repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram de fontes alternativas de cama de frango: A - raspa de madeira, B - capim-elefante Napier, C - sabugo de milho com palha e D - parte aérea da mandioca. A digestibilidade dos nutrientes e o valor energético com base no NDT, das camas de frango de sabugo de milho com palha e de capim-elefante, apresentaram valor nutritivo melhor que o da cama de frango de raspa de madeira para ruminantes.This experiment was conducted to evaluate the digestibility and total digestive nutrients (TDN) of poultry litter made from different types of absorbent materials. Twenty castrated sheeps of Morada Nova breed were allotted to metabolic cages and fitted with bag device for total feces collection. The experimental design was a randomized block with four treatments and five replicates. The treatments consisted in alternatives sources of poultry litter: A - wood shavings, B - elephant "Napier" grass, C - corncob with husks and D - aerial part of cassava. The nutrient digestibility and the energetic value as TDN base, of the corncob with husk and elephant "Napier" grass poultry litter showed better nutritive value than the wood shaving poultry litter for ruminants.

A study was conducted in growing goat kids to evaluate the effect of incorporation of detoxified karanj seed cake (Pongamia glabra vent) in basal concentrate mixtures on the intake of digestible crude protein (DCP) and total digestible nutrient (TDN) and fibre digestibility. A 6-day metabolic trial was conducted in the midway of 119 days feeding trial in goat kids to investigate the effect of feeding solvent extracted karanj cake (SKC) and alkali processed solvent extracted karanj cake (AKC) based concentrate mixtures on the intake of digestible crude protein (DCP) and total digestible nutrient (TDN). Twenty male goat kids of uniform age were submitted to one of the five diets containing two different levels of either SKC or AKC in a completely randomized design. The T1 group was offered groundnut cake (GNC) as a sole source of nitrogen whereas T2 and T3 group were offered SKC @ 8.09% and 16.18% of concentrate mixtures, respectively to replace 25% and 50% of GNC nitrogen. Similarly T4 and T5 were fed AKC @ 8.09% and 16.18% of concentrate mixtures, respectively to replace the 25% and 50% of GNC nitrogen. No significant effect of either SPC or APC was observed on the intake of DCP and TDN and fibre digestibility on concentrate mixtures containing different levels of either SKC or AKC. Therefore the results indicates that long term supplementation of SPC or APC up to 25% replacement of conventional nitrogen source have not affected the DCP and TDN intake and fibre digestibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Target scattered time domain response in the resonance region can be modelled by natural poles using the singularity expansion method (SEM). A hybrid of the conventional Extinction pulse (E-Pulse) and auto-regressive (AR) method is proposed in this communication for robust discrimination of radar targets. A new target discrimination number (TDN) is suggested, which gives enhanced discrimination margin for the decision process. The limitation of the conventional E-pulse method is highlighted using time domain responses of metallic cylinders of different radii obtained through simulations. The hybrid E-pulse technique is applied to scatterers in free space as well as under the surface and demonstrated to produce comfortable discrimination margins. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Cheongdaok, a new single maize (Zea mays L.) variety, was developed by the maize breeding team at the National Institute of Crop Science (NICS), RDA in 2010. This high-yielding hybrid was produced by crossing two inbred lines, KS159 and KS155. KS159 is the seed parent and KS155 is the pollen parent of Cheongdaok. It is a yellow dent maize hybrid. After the preliminary yield trial and advanced yield trial of Cheongdaok in Suwon for two years, the regional yield trial was subsequently carried out for evaluation of its growth characteristics and yield at f our different locations from 2008 to 2010. The silking date of Cheongdaok is one day earlier than that of the check hybrid, Kwangpyeongok. Compared to Kwangpyeongok, the Cheongdaok show short in plant height and low in ear height ratio. It has resistance to lodging. The stay-gr een degree and the ear ratio of Cheongdaok are similar to Kwangpyeongok. It has moderate resistance to southern leaf blight (Bipolaris maydis) and strong resistance to northern leaf blight (Exserohilum turcicum). It has moderate resistance to black streaked dwarf virus (BSDV), ear lot, and corn borer. The dry matter yield 20.24 ton/ ha and the total digestible nutrient (TDN) yield (13.80 ton/ha) of Cheongdaok were similar to Kwangpyeongok. The grain yield (8.51 ton/ha) of Cheongdaok was higher than that of Jangdaok. The seed production of Cheongdaok was well processed due to a good synchronization of flowering period during crossing between the seed parent KS159 and the pollen parent KS155, and the F1 seed yield was 1.8 ton/ha in Yeongwol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutritional status of animals was evaluated by collecting representative samples of feeds, fodder and blood plasma from the selected villages from the semi-arid zone (Jamnagar district) of Gujarat. The collected samples were analyzed for proximate composition and certain minerals content. The average digestible crude protein (DCP) intake of lactating buffaloes ranged between 92.87 and 107.64% of requirement and average total digestible nutrients (TDN) intake ranged between 103.51 and 105.89% of requirement. The average calcium (Ca) content ranged from 0.25-2.28% in roughages as compared to 0.04-0.19% in concentrates. Phosphorus (P) content in concentrates (0.47%) was higher than that of roughages (0.13%). The average copper (Cu) level was recorded low in most of the feed resources (5.81-9.78 ppm). Wheat straw (7.73 ppm) and jowar straw (13.76 ppm) were low in zinc (Zn). Manganese (Mn) content in different feeds and fodders ranged from 12.98 to 99.86 ppm. Ca, P, Cu, Mn and Zn levels were found to be deficient in the ration of dairy buffaloes. The average blood plasma levels of Cu, Zn and Mn in buffaloes were 0.66, 0.75 and 0.06 ppm, respectively. As compared to critical level of Cu (0.65 ppm) and Zn (0.8 ppm) in blood plasma, more than 60% of the animals screened showed low Cu and Zn status. Based on the calculated intakes of DCP, TDN, Ca, P, Cu, Zn and Mn from various feed resources, suggestions for correcting supply of protein and energy and extent of supplementation required through area specific mineral mixture, for obviating Ca, P, Cu, Zn and Mn deficiency in the ration of buffaloes were given to the farmers of Jamnagar district. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Knowledge of the formation and fate of aroma compounds is important to an understanding of the processes that affect wine composition and flavour. This study aimed to investigate the competitive formation and degradation of 1,1,6-trimethyl-1,2-dihydronaphthalene (TDN) and 2,2,6,8-tetramethyl-7,11-dioxatricyclo[6.2.1.01,6]undec-4-ene (Riesling acetal) under wine storage conditions. Methods and Results: 1,1,5-trimethyl-3,6-dihydroxy-9,9-ethylenedioxymegastigm-4-ene was synthesised in the laboratory by using standard organic chemistry transformation methodology and was subsequently used to prepare both Riesling acetal and TDN. At 45°C in model wine, approximately 40% of Riesling acetal was converted to TDN after 60 days at pH 3.2, whereas 80% was converted after 60 days at pH 3.0, as established by GC/MS analysis. Under more vigorous conditions, this conversion was complete and the TDN thus formed was completely stable. Conclusion: Riesling acetal is a precursor to TDN at wine pH, rather than a competing end-product formed by the acid-catalysed hydrolysis of precursors common to both compounds. TDN is chemically stable to wine acid. Significance of the Study: The findings provide a clearer understanding of the factors affecting the concentration of TDN (kerosene, bottle-age aroma) in older wines and thereby have the potential to indicate strategies for modulating the formation of TDN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Nitrogen loadings to coastal waters have increased over the last century, resulting in deterioration in water quality. In this study we investigated the distributions and seasonality of dissolved organic nitrogen (DON), and its relationship to total dissolved nitrogen (TDN), for two anthropogenically influenced estuarine systems in southwest England. Concentrations of DON in both estuaries were generally <80 μM. DON showed non-conservative distributions, resulting from external and internal inputs and in situ reactivity. DON contributed 38±22% (range 4–79%, Yealm) and 36±17% (range 4–84%, Plym) to the TDN pool, with lower values generally observed in the fresher samples relative to the more saline samples. DON was a larger fraction of the TDN pool during the summer and autumn relative to winter and spring, indicating the influence of bacterioplankton release on nitrogen cycling in the estuaries. Ammonification and nitrification were observed in the estuaries, processes which were reproduced in incubation experiments using bioreactors. The bioreactor experiments showed that 12% h−1 of the DON flux from the River Plym may be available to bacteria, indicating significant removal of DON during the residence time of the water in the estuary (a few days). The bioavailable nature of the DON means that this N fraction significantly adds to the eutrophication burden of the receiving coastal waters, and therefore cannot be ignored in environmental assessments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) represented the major portion of total organic carbon (80–95% TOC) in the Northern South China Sea (NSCS) that was influenced significantly by the Kuroshio intrusion and continental fluxes. The concentration of DOC ranged from 70 to 85μM in the mixed layer of studied areas excluding the coastal zone. The concentration of particulate organic carbon (POC) was relatively low, ranging from 1.6 to 4μM in the mixed layer. Distributions of DOC (43±3μM) and POC (1.1±02μM) were uniform in deep and bottom layers (>1000m) of the deep basin areas. However, elevated concentrations of DOC and POC up to 132 and 13μM, respectively, were found in the Zhujiang (Pearl River) plume during summer with the highest river discharge. Both DOC and POC were generally higher in shelf zones than in deep basins, and also higher in summer than in other seasons particularly for coastal zones. Terrestrial inputs and mixing processes may primarily control the horizontal and vertical distributions of DOC and POC in the NSCS, as both correlate significantly with water density and temperature but less significantly with salinity. Biological effect on DOC and POC distributions also may be significant in the central basin, as both are correlated well with chlorophyll a. A portion of surface DOM with poor nitrogen and phosphorus contents appears to be released during Corg syntheses inferred from stoichiometric patterns of DOM and POM in the euphotic zone. The degradation rate of DOC in the mixed layer is generally higher in the Zhujiang plume (decay coefficient: −0.045d−1) than in the deep basin (−0.011d−1). The labile and semi-labile fractions of DOC account for roughly 42–50% of total DOC in the mixed layer. The increase of DOM and POM stoichiometry (C/N or C/P ratio) with depth in deep-basin waters implies a preferential decay of phosphorus (nitrogen) over carbon. Contribution of DOC oxidation to apparent oxygen utilization (AOU) below the mixed layer is fairly low, ranging from 11% and 30% with an average of ∼19%, implying that DOC may be largely recycled in the upper layer. Although the downward flux of DOC is smaller than the sinking flux of Corg, its magnitude (0.27–4.4mmolCm−2 d−1) constitutes a significant flux of total organic carbon transported through the depth of 100 or 150m in the NSCS basin. With the exception of fluxes through 100m in summer, the downward fluxes of total Corg are nearly balanced by new productivity derived from upward fluxes of nutrients by considering the estimate uncertainty. DOC appears to play an important role in organic carbon cycling and budgets in the upper layer of NSCS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]