High Palate Research Articles

Changes in Vegetation of Flooded Savannas Subject to Cattle Grazing and Fire in Plains of Colombia

Cattle grazing and fire are common types of management on natural ecosystems, generating several threats to the conservation of native vegetation (e.g., changes in species richness, cover, and abundance, mainly of bovine-palatable species). In this work, we analysed the response of the structure and composition of vegetation managed with different cattle stocking rates and fire in the savanna ecosystems of Colombia. The study was located in the eastern area of the Llanos region, where savannas were subjected to grazing and burning. Regarding grazing, we classified the area according to the cattle stocking rate (Bos indicus ~300 kg): NG = non-grazed, LS = low stocking rate (0.5 ind ha−1 yr−1), and HS = high stocking rate (1.0 ind ha−1 yr−1). Controlled artificial burning was applied in all the area at the beginning of the study, and surveys were conducted in the same plots at pre-burn (t0) and four post-burn times (t1, t2, t3, t4), at 15, 45, 75 and 105 days after burning. Vegetation composition (species list, life-form, palatability) and structure (bare soil and vascular plant ground covers, species height and richness) were recorded at each sampling. Data were compared through ANOVAs and multivariate analyses. We found 53 species in total: 26 in the pre-burn treatment and 44 in the post-burn treatments, detecting an increase of 18 species considering all treatments. Seven natives and two exotic species represented the dominant cover (>50%). LS and HS had the highest number of palatable species in t0 (seven species) compared with NG (two species), but this became similar after burning (14 species in NG, 12 in LS, and 11 in HS). ANOVAs and multivariate analyses showed that plant assemblages were significantly different according to the grazing treatment, and more homogeneous in pre-burn than in post-burn periods. Cattle grazing favored higher covers of dominant palatable species (e.g., Axonopus purpusii) compared with NG, but many native species with high palatability only recovered within the system after burning. In the context of the current management proposals, the search for new alternatives other than intensive cattle grazing and burning is needed to reconcile human production activities, international commitments against climate change and biodiversity conservation in the savanna landscapes.

The structure and prevalence of dento-maxillary anomalies and deformations in adolescents with hereditarily caused pathology

The high frequency of connective tissue dysplasia (CTD) in the pediatric population, its negative impact on the course of diseases of the dentoalveolar system predetermine the need to make additions to the standards of diagnosis and treatment of this category of patients. Depending on the severity of external phenotypic manifestations and laboratory, clinical and instrumental signs, among 114 adolescents 12–16 years old with general pathology, as well as the clinical symptom complex of CTD, groups with mild, moderate and severe undifferentiated dysplasia were formed. The control group consisted of 37 adolescents of the I and II health groups, matched by sex and age. The first stage of CTD diagnostics involves the identification and scoring of external dysplastic signs, the second stage of diagnostics includes an indepth clinical and instrumental examination to identify visceral CTD manifestations. It was found that the prevalence of dentoalveolar anomalies and deformities in combination with signs of undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia in adolescence exceeds the frequency of detecting dentoalveolar anomalies and deformities in children of the control group by 1.4–10.9 times. It has been proven that the most informative phenotypic signs in patients with CTD and occlusive disorders are stigmas from the maxillofacial region (anomalies in the position of the teeth, high (Gothic) palate, deformation of the Spee occlusal curve, narrowing and deformation of the dentition, anomalies of attachment of the frenum of the tongue and lips ), bone-skeletal (hypermobility of joints, flat feet, clinodactyly, osteochondrosis, poor posture, anomalies of the skull, deformities of the limbs and chest), ectodermal (hyper-extensibility of the skin, thin, easily injured skin) and muscle (hypotonia of muscles). The presence of at least six informative dysplastic signs in dental patients is an objective criterion for an unclassified CTD phenotype.

Increasing use of flavoured tobacco products amongst youth

Adolescence and early adulthood are the most susceptible phase of life for tobacco initiation and its use during this period can have profound public health implications. Anti-smoking campaigns have helped in reducing the social acceptability of smoking; however, newer nicotine products are becoming increasingly popular, globally. Evidence suggests that flavours play a key role in youth initiation of tobacco use. Flavoured Tobacco Products (FTP) are disproportionately used by the youth and young adults due to their high palatability and misperceptions regarding reduced ill effects of their constituents. Early use of a flavoured tobacco product puts youth and young adults at risk of continued tobacco use and other substance use. The prevalence of FTP use (72.7%) is much higher in young adults as compared to non-flavoured tobacco products.

Small heart anomalies as cardiac manifestations of hereditary connective tissue disorders

Introduction. Small heart anomalies (SHA) are the morphological basis for functional changes in cardiac activity and can exacerbate the course of organic heart lesions. The most studied SHA include false chords of the left ventricle (FCLV) and mitral valve prolapse. Prevalence, association with external signs of dysembryogenesis, as well as the predictive value of SHA are not sufficiently studied.
 Materials and methods. We examined 611 people between the ages of 18 and 23 (average age 20.3 1.6 years), including 257 boys and 354 girls. All of the surveyed performed phenotypic, anthropometric and echocardiographic examinations. To identify the SHA links to heart rhythm disorders, the 205 surveyed performed Holters ECG monitoring.
 Results. SHA identified in 90% of the individuals surveyed: atrial septum aneurysm (24%), tricuspid valve prolapse (23.4%), asymmetry of the aortic valve (20.6%), additional papillary muscles (39.4%) and FCLV (75,1%). Correlation analysis showed the presence of links between these SHA and bone signs of dysembryogenesis (chest deformities, arachnodactyllia, dolistennomely and high palate), as well as heart rhythm disorders (supraventricular and ventricular extrasystoles, rhythm driver migration and episodes of AV-blockade 1 degree). Patients with marfanoid habitus have a higher average number of SHA (2.1 1.4 vs 0.9 0.7, p 0.005).
 Conclusions. SHA are identified in the vast majority of healthy people. Bone signs of dysembryogenesis are associated with significant SHA and can serve as a marker for the involvement of the heart in the dysplastic process. Patients with SHA have significant cardiac arrhythmias.

THE STUDY OF ECONOMICALLY IMPORTANT FRUIT CHARACTERISTICS OF ALMOND

Research is aimed at expanding the assortment of almonds as a valuable food product, which is in great demand in the confectionery, pharmaceutical industry and among the population. Industrial cultivation of almonds is possible in the republics of Crimea, Dagestan, North Ossetia-Alania, Kabardino-Balkaria, as well as the Stavropol and Krasnodar Territories. The resumption and increase in production of the domestic almond kernel is possible on the basis of the creation of new varieties with higher commercial and biological characteristics. The work is aimed at studying the diversity of varieties and samples of ordinary almonds (26 genotypes) from the gene pool of the Krymsk Experimental Breeding Station (EBS), VIR Branch, represented by more than 120 accessions introduced from countries near and far abroad. The studies were conducted at the Krymsk EBS, VIR Branch, located in the Piedmont zone of the Western subzone of the Krasnodar Territory. Varieties, elites specimens introduced from natural landscapes, 2009 planting, grafted on clonal rootstocks, grow on a dry forest, the layout is 4 × 1 m. Experimental data are presented on the quality of almond seed: weight and seed yield, shell strength, the presence of double and defective seeds in the bone, the palatability of the seed, oil content and the fatty acid composition of the raw almond seed cheese. Sources of the most important economically and biologically significant traits were identified, including complex ones: Tuono, Monterey, Karmeil, elites 1–18–2, 2–40, Kalmykova almond seedling 1–1 with a seed weight of 1 g or more and a seed yield of more than 40 % of bone mass; high palatability — elite — 1–18–2, seedling of almond Kalmykova 1–1; high oil content in the seed — elite 13–37; valuable fatty acid composition (by the content of unsaturated fatty acids) — variety Victoria, elites 1–18–2, 2–40, Kolod 8–1. These genotypes are recommended to be involved in targeted breeding programs on the quality of almond seeds. For production testing and subsequent inclusion in the Register of breeding achievements approved for use in the North Caucasus region, varieties are proposed: Vynoslivyi and Stepnoy, breeds of the Nikitsky Botanical Garden — National Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Increasing the proportion of hazel leaves in the diet of dairy cows reduced methane yield and excretion of nitrogen in volatile form, but not milk yield

Various feeds for ruminants have been identified that help to mitigate the greenhouse gas methane. However, even when there has been success in suppressing absolute methane emissions, intake, digestibility, and performance often decline in parallel. Ideal dietary levels of effective feeds would reduce methane production without affecting performance-related variables. Such favorable associative effects have been demonstrated in vitro by combining a high-quality forage with plants rich in phenols. In the present study, the tannin-rich leaves of hazel (Corylus avellana) gradually replaced (from 0 to 820 g/kg) a high-quality forage (dried alfalfa) in 20 types of experimental pellets fed to 20 mid-to-late lactating cows. Additionally, the cows were fed a mixed basal ration and some concentrate. The proportion of hazel in the 20 complete diets ranged from 0 to 400 g/kg dry matter. After 14 days of adaptation, 8 days were used for intensive sampling of feces (including markers for determining digesta retention time), urine, and milk. In addition, cows stayed for 2 days in open-circuit respiration chambers. Hazel leaves reduced the feed intake only slightly. Digestibility declined and mean digesta retention time was prolonged with increasing hazel proportion, likely due to the lower feeding value of the hazel leaves compared to the alfalfa. As aimed for, there were no significant effects on energy-corrected milk yield, body energy, and body N retention with increasing hazel intake, even though methane emission clearly declined in absolute term and per unit of digestible organic matter and tended to decrease per unit of energy corrected milk. In addition, increasing hazel proportions strongly shifted N excretion from urinary N (which declined from about 300 to 100 g/kg N intake) to fecal N. This could also be anticipated from the sharp decline in milk urea concentration (from about 35 to 10 mg/dL). In conclusion, hazel leaves as a feed supplement for dairy cows showed a high palatability within 3 weeks of feeding in dairy cows and great potential to mitigate emissions of methane and nitrogen in volatile form at maintained production levels. No favorable associative dosage effects seem to exist when combining tannin-rich hazel leaves with the high-quality forage alfalfa in a different proportions to a mixed basal ration. However, the present study is one of the few, where it was possible to mitigate noxious emissions of dairy cows by feeding a tannin rich feed supplement without concomitant negative impact on the animal’s performance.

Potential of Mulberry Leaf Biomass and Its Flavonoids to Improve Production and Health in Ruminants: Mechanistic Insights and Prospects.

Simple SummaryThe economics of livestock production depends upon the feasible feeding resources as feed costs constitute more than 70% of the total expenses of a livestock enterprise. In this regard, searching for alternative and cheaper feeding resources is imperative for economical and sustainable livestock production. Mulberry leaves are an important resource available for feeding livestock, as they possess quite high protein and energy contents as compared to other tree leaves and conventional forages. Moreover, polyphenolic compounds (mainly flavonoids) present in mulberry leaf (ML) possess excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial potential that can beneficially impact animal health and production. Mulberry leaves and its flavonoids have been shown to increase the feed digestibility and milk production in ruminants, while reducing methane emission. Moreover, mulberry flavonoids can positively influence body metabolism and alleviate oxidative stress in animals. This review highlights the importance of this unique feeding resource for ruminants to increase their performance while reducing methane emissions.Leaf biomass from the mulberry plant (genus Morus and family Moraceae) is considered a potential resource for livestock feeding. Mulberry leaves (MLs) contain high protein (14.0–34.2%) and metabolizable energy (1130–2240 kcal/kg) with high dry matter (DM) digestibility (75–85%) and palatability. Flavonoid contents of MLs confer unique antioxidant properties and can potentially help alleviate oxidative stress in animals during stressful periods, such as neonatal, weaning, and periparturient periods. In addition, mulberry leaf flavonoids (MLFs) possess antimicrobial properties and can effectively decrease the population of ruminal methanogens and protozoa to reduce enteric methane (CH4) production. Owing to its rich flavonoid content, feeding MLs increases fiber digestion and utilization leading to enhanced milk production in ruminants. Dietary supplementation with MLFs alters ruminal fermentation kinetics by increasing total volatile fatty acids, propionate, and ammonia concentrations. Furthermore, they can substantially increase the population of specific cellulolytic bacteria in the rumen. Owing to their structural homology with steroid hormones, the MLFs can potentially modulate different metabolic pathways particularly those linked with energy homeostasis. This review aims to highlight the potential of ML and its flavonoids to modulate the ruminal microbiome, fermentation, and metabolic status to enhance productive performance and health in ruminants while reducing CH4 emission.

The first case report of Kyphoscoliotic Ehlers-Danlos syndrome of chinese origin with a novel PLOD1 gene mutation

BackgroundKyphoscoliotic Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (kEDS) is a rare autosomal recessive connective tissue disorder characterized by progressive kyphoscoliosis, congenital muscular hypotonia, marked joint hypermobility, and severe skin hyperextensibility and fragility. Deficiency of lysyl hydroxylase 1 (LH1) due to mutations of PLOD1 (procollagen-lysine, 2-oxoglutarate 5-dioxygenase 1) gene has been identified as the pathogenic cause of kEDS (kEDS-PLOD1). Up to now, kEDS-PLOD1 has not been reported among Chinese population.Case presentationA 17-year-old Chinese male patient presenting with hypotonia, joint hypermobility and scoliosis was referred to our hospital. After birth, he was found to have severe hypotonia leading to delayed motor development. Subsequently, joint hypermobility, kyphoscoliosis and amblyopia were found. Inguinal hernia was found at age 5 years and closed by surgery. At the same time, he presented with hyperextensible and bruisable velvety skin with widened atrophic scarring after minor trauma. Dislocation of elbow joint was noted at age of 6 years. Orthopedic surgery for correction of kyphoscoliosis was performed at age 10 years. His family history was unremarkable. Physical examination revealed elevated blood pressure. Slight facial dysmorphologies including high palate, epicanthal folds, and down-slanting palpebral fissures were found. He also had blue sclerae with normal hearing. X-rays revealed severe degree of scoliosis and osteopenia. The Echocardiography findings were normal. Laboratory examination revealed a slightly elevated bone turnover. Based on the clinical manifestations presented by our patient, kEDS was suspected. Genetic analysis revealed a novel homozygous missense mutation of PLOD1 (c.1697 G > A, p.C566Y), confirming the diagnosis of kEDS-PLOD1. The patient was treated with alfacalcidol and nifedipine. Improved physical strength and normal blood pressure were reported after 12-month follow-up.ConclusionsThis is the first case of kEDS-PLOD1 of Chinese origin. We identified one novel mutation of PLOD1, extending the mutation spectrum of PLOD1. Diagnosis of kEDS-PLOD1 should be considered in patients with congenital hypotonia, progressive kyphoscoliosis, joint hypermobility, and skin hyperextensibility and confirmed by mutation analysis of PLOD1.

Long-term effects of white-tailed deer overabundance, hybrid poplar genotype and planting stock type on tree growth and ecosystem services provision in bioenergy buffers

Populus hybrids are increasingly planted in multifunctional bioenergy buffers bordering crop fields. However, such small agroforestry systems are vulnerable to damage caused by overabundant deer populations. We measured after 8 years the effects of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), genotype and planting stock type on tree growth and ecosystem services provision (biomass production; energy, nutrient and carbon storage; and phytoaccumulation of soil nitrate and phosphorus) in 15-m wide buffers located downslopes of hayfields in southern Québec (Canada). Two deer protection treatments (fenced and unfenced), two genotypes (P. deltoides × P. nigra, genotype D×N-3570 and P. maximowiczii × P. balsamifera, genotype M×B-915311) and two stock types (bare-root stocks: ±1.8 m in height and whips: 2.5 m in height) were studied. In unfenced plots, deer heavily browsed poplars (increase in the height of the first branch by 59 cm), repeatedly rubbed tree bark (36% of trees with rubs for genotype D×N-3570, and 59% for genotype M×B-915311), slightly decreased survival (by 2.9%), which reduced tree-level and stand-level productivity. Proportion of trees with rubs, first branch height and survival were correlated (p < 0.001) with woody biomass yields. Fenced poplars increased wood volume, biomass and energetic content by 20–21%, and C, N and P stocks in aboveground biomass by 13–20%. Higher soil phosphorus bioavailability was also found in unfenced plots. Genotype D×N-3570, which allocates less biomass to branches, grows its first branches farther from the ground and rapidly develops a rough and thick bark, was the least affected by deer, despite its high palatability. Genotype M×B-915311, which had higher biomass allocation to branches, a smooth and thin bark, but low palatability, was the most affected by deer. Soils in plots of genotype M×B-915311 had the lowest macronutrients availability, except for nitrate. Biomass feedstock quality (i.e. low nutrient concentrations and high heating value of woody biomass) was highest for genotype M×B-915311. In both fenced and unfenced plots, whips were more productive than bare-root stocks, especially for genotype D×N-3570. Optimizing ecosystem services provision in bioenergy buffers can be achieved by fencing, and by genotype and stock type selection.

Morphological signs of connective tissue dysplasia as predictors of frequent post-exercise musculoskeletal disorders

BackgroundConnective tissue dysplasia (CTD) is a risk factor for musculoskeletal disorders. Changes caused by disorganization of collagen and elastin fibers lead to the inability of withstanding heavy mechanical stress. In clinical practice, diagnosis of these disorders depends on physical and anthropomorphic evaluation.MethodsForty-eight patients with frequent post-exercise musculoskeletal disorders were evaluated for CTD. The control group included 36 healthy participants. Both groups were evaluated via therapeutic examination with assessment of anthropometric indicators and physical-physiological evaluation, surveying and gathering of anamnesis. Based on testing results, study participants were evaluated on CTD presence and risk factors.ResultsAll experimental group patients had connective tissue dysplasia of moderate and severe degree, with a total score of 49.44 ± 13.1. Certain morphological characteristics showed prevalence, allowing to determine pathognomonic predictors of high predisposition to frequent post-exercise musculoskeletal disorders. Back pain (100%), asthenic syndrome and kyphotic spinal deformation (75%), high gothic palate, hypermobility of joints and the auricles, excessive elasticity (63%), varicose veins of the lower extremities (56%) and hemorrhoids (56%), changes in the shape of the legs and temporomandibular joint (50%) showed to be significant clinical factors indicating possible connective tissue dysplasia.ConclusionsThe presence of these diagnostically significant morphological signs of CTD in humans is a pathognomonic predictor of a high predisposition to frequent injuries. Their early detection helps promote proper appointment of adequate physical activity regimen and develop treatment for the underlying cause.

Minor Physical Anomalies Among Schizophrenic Patients as a Biomarker of Its Developmental Origin in Northwest Ethiopia.

PurposeAlthough there are highly precise and advanced diagnostic methods, the etiology and pathophysiology of schizophrenia remain poorly understood. There are several theories about schizophrenia origin, among which the neurodevelopmental theory is widely accepted. Our study aimed to assess minor physical anomalies among schizophrenic patients as putative indices of its developmental origin in North West Ethiopia 2018–2019.Patients and MethodsInstitutional-based comparative cross-sectional study design was conducted in Debre Markos comprehensive, specialized hospitals in 190 schizophrenic patients, 190 healthy controls, and 190 1st-degree relatives. Data were collected using standard methods, entered into EpiData version 3.1, and exported to SPSS version 24 for analysis. Descriptive data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and discriminant function analysis was conducted and a value of 0.03 was taken as the cutoff point for prediction of group status of the study samples.ResultsFive hundred seventy study samples, male 375 (65.8%), and female 195 (34.2%), were included in this study. The discriminate function 1 and 2 revealed a significant association between groups and all predictors, accounting for 83.5% and 16.5% of between-group variability, respectively. However, closer analysis of the structure matrix revealed longitudinally furrowed tongue, ≥Five palate ridges, high steeples palate, transversely and randomly furrowed tongue, protruding supraorbital ridge as significant predictors.ConclusionDepending on predictor variables in this study, minor physical anomalies can serve as a biomarker for early screening of schizophrenic patients and clue for its developmental origin.

Effective complete replacement of fish oil by combining poultry and microalgae oils in practical diets for gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) fingerlings

Few ingredients allow the complete replacement of fish meals (FM) and fish oils (FO) in aquaculture feeds without affecting fish performance or fillet nutritive value. This is due to the adequate content of essential nutrients, including the n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC PUFA), and the unique high palatability of FM and fish oil. Some microalgae present abundant amounts of these fatty acids, for instance docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of two different microalgae products, one providing DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3; ED diet), and the other one DHA and n-6 docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, 22:5n-6; DD diet), in combination with poultry oil and rapeseed oil, as total replacers of fish oil, at two different dietary fish meal contents (15 and 7.5%). The effects of these dietary oil combinations on performance, composition and nutritive quality indexes of gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) juveniles were studied and compared against a positive control diet (FO) and two negative control diets (PO diets), one for each dietary fish meal content tested, giving in total 7 experimental diets. Both microalgae products in combination with poultry and rapseed oils were able to completely replace fish oil in practical diets with 15% FM without affecting growth performance, utilization of dietary fatty acids or the nutritional quality of fish fillet for the consumer. On the contrary, PO alone was not able to completely replace fish oil and negatively affected fish performance, in relation to an insufficient dietary n-3 LC-PUFA content. A similar decrease in growth performance was also observed with the reduction of the dietary FM content to 7.5%. In conclusion, both oils from microalgae, providing either DHA and EPA or DHA and n-6 DPA, were effective n-3 LC-PUFA sources for sea bream juveniles and allowed complete replacement of fish oil in combination with more cost-effective lipid sources, such as poultry and rapeseed oils.

Acute Consumption of Varied Doses of Cocoa Flavanols Does Not Influence Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage

Polyphenol consumption has become a popular method of trying to temper muscle damage. Cocoa flavanols (CF) have attracted attention due to their high polyphenol content and palatability. As such, this study will investigate whether an acute dose of CF can aid recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage. The study was a laboratory-based, randomized, single-blind, nutrient-controlled trial involving 23 participants (13 females and 10 males). Participants were randomized into either control ∼0mg CF (n = 8, four females); high dose of 830mg CF (CF830, n = 8, five females); or supra dose of 1,245mg CF (CF1245, n = 7, four females). The exercise-induced muscle damage protocol consisted of five sets of 10 maximal concentric/eccentric hamstring curls and immediately consumed their assigned drink following completion. To measure muscle recovery, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of the knee flexors at 60° and 30°, a visual analog scale (VAS), and lower-extremity function scale were taken at baseline, immediately, 24-, 48-, and 72-hr postexercise-induced muscle damage. There was a main effect for time for all variables (p < .05). However, no significant differences were observed between groups for all measures (p ≥ .17). At 48hr, there were large effect sizes between control and CF1245 for MVIC60 (p = .17, d = 0.8); MVIC30 (p = .26, d = 0.8); MVIC30 percentage change (p = .24 d = 0.9); and visual analog scale (p = .25, d = 0.9). As no significant differences were observed following the consumption of CF, there is reason to believe that CF offer no benefit for muscle recovery when ingested acutely.

A feature collection of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) by nutritious value of seeds

The study purpose was to summarize and analyze multi-year data on the nutritional quality of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) accessions from the basic collection of the National Center for Plant Genetic Resources of Ukraine (NCPGRU).Materials and methods. In 1992–2018, 555 accessions of the NCPGRU’s basic collection of lentils were studied. Lens culinaris Medik. accessions were represented by two subspecies: subsp. microsperma and subsp. macrosperma.The collection accessions of lentils were investigated and morphologically described; they were grouped by economic and biological features according to the Classifier of the genus Lens L.The protein content in seeds was determined by the Kjeldahl digestion in the Laboratory of Genetics, Biotechnology and Quality of the Plant Production Institute nd. a. VYa Yuriev NAAS.Results and discussion. The nutritional parameters of lentil seeds were evaluated in the full ripeness phase: protein content, cooking time, palatability, colors of cotyledons and seed coat, resistance to infuscation, and seed size.As to the protein content in seeds, the collection includes the following accessions: with a very high protein content (&gt;30%) – one reference accession UD0600398 (Ukraine) with the protein content of 30.34%; with high protein content (29-30%) – 26 accessions; with medium protein content (26–28%) – 55 accessions; with low protein content (20–25%) – 79 accessions. As to the cooking boiling rate, the collection includes 154 accessions: with a very good rate (&lt; 40 minutes) – 45 accessions; with a good rate (40–60 minutes) – 89 accessions; with a medium rate (61–80 minutes) – 20 accessions. Reference accessions for various levels of lentil palatability were distinguished and included in the collection: very low palatability (3 points) – LUG 330/04 (Ukraine); low palatability (5 points) – 1743 T 19 (Canada); high palatability (7 points) – Miledi, (Russia).The seed appearance is an important aspect of the market value of food lentils: the seed coat color, cotyledon color, resistance to infuscation. The accessions were grouped by cotyledon color as follows: yellow – 87 accessions; hot-yellow – 67 accessions; green – 6 accessions. In accordance with the Classifier of the genus Lens, there are currently eight types of the seed coat pigmentation; their references are listed below: white – LUG 45/09 (Ukraine); pink – LUG 116/09 (Ukraine); green – Zelenyy Chervonets (Ukraine); yellow-green – Krasnohradska 250 (Ukraine); gray – 1743 T 19 (Canada); gray-red – Elista (Slovakia); brown – UD0600444 (Ethiopia); and black – Beluga (Israel).Given the ability of the seed coat to infuscate, the reference accessions for this trait were chosen: infuscating – Krasnohradska 250 (Ukraine); non-infuscating – LUG 45/09 (Ukraine).

Impact of anthropogenic disturbance and vegetation composition on ecophysiology and activity of Uromastyx aegyptia (Forskål, 1775)

Anthropogenic disturbances, particularly in deserts where resources and biodiversity are limited, may affect the delicate balance that enables an organism to exist in its environment. In this study, we investigated the impacts of human disturbance and the resulting changes in vegetation composition on activity, thermal biology, and body condition index of the Egyptian spiny-tailed burrowing lizard, Uromastyx aegyptia. Thirty-six adult U. aegyptia, were radio-tracked twice per week inside and outside protected habitats in the Kuwaiti desert. Vegetation composition, richness, abundance and density were surveyed in 115 plots randomly selected close to the active burrows and in the interspace areas. The high percentage of browsing on certain species such as Cyperus conglomeratus, Moltkiopsis ciliata, Rhanterium epapposum, and Convolvulus oxyphyllus may indicate that these species are characterized by high palatability and nutritional values for livestock and wild animals including dhubs. Dhub burrows were closer to each other inside the protected sites than outside of the protected sites. While habitat protection provided more vegetation and refuge to the dhubs and greater body mass at the beginning of the active season, it had little effect on seasonal changes in body mass and surface activity times of dhubs.

Evaluation of the morphometric covariation between palatal and craniofacial skeletal morphology in class III malocclusion growing subjects

BackgroundTo study the covariation between palatal and craniofacial skeletal morphology in Class III growing patients through geometric morphometric analysis (GMM).MethodsIn this retrospective study, 54 Class III subjects (24F,30M;7.6 ± 0.8yy) were enrolled following these inclusion criteria: European ancestry, Class III skeletal and dental relationship, early mixed dentition, prepubertal skeletal maturation, familiarity for Class III malocclusion, no pseudo Class III malocclusion. Each patient provided upper digital cast and cephalogram before starting the therapy. Landmarks and semilandmarks were digitized (239 on the casts;121 on the lateral radiographs) and GMM was used. Procrustes analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied to show the principal components of palatal and craniofacial skeletal shape variation. Two-block partial least squares analysis (PLS) was used to assess pattern of covariation between palatal and craniofacial morphology.ResultsRegarding palatal shape variation, PC with largest variance (PC1) described morphological changes in the three space dimensions, while, concerning the craniofacial complex components, PC1 revealed morphological differences along the vertical plane. A significant covariation was found between palatal and craniofacial shape. PLS1 accounted for more than 61,7% of the whole covariation, correlating the craniofacial divergence to palatal height and width.ConclusionsIn Class III subjects increments of angle divergence are related to a narrow and high palate.

SUN-725 Clinical and Genetic Features of Families with Maternally Inherited Central Precocious Puberty

Context: The clinical recognition of familial central precocious puberty (CPP) has significantly increased in the last years. This fact can be related to the recent descriptions of genetic causes associated with this pediatric condition, such as loss-of-function mutations of two imprinted genes (MKRN3 and DLK1). Inherited defects in both genes cause paternally inherited CPP. However, no genetic abnormality has been described in families with maternally inherited CPP so far. Objectives: To characterize the clinical and genetic features of several families with maternally inherited CPP. Setting and Participants: We analyzed clinical and genetic features of children with familial CPP. No brain MRI alterations were detected in the selected patients with CPP. MKRN3 and DLK1 pathogenic mutations were excluded. Whole-exome sequencing was performed in selected cases. Results: We studied 177 children from 141 families with familial CPP. Paternal inheritance was evidenced in 44 families (31%), whereas 58 (41%) had maternally inheritance. Indeterminate inheritance was detected in the remaining families. Maternally inherited CPP affected mainly female patients (69 girls and two boys). Thelarche occurred at mean age of 6.1 ± 1.9 years in this female group. Most of girls had Tanner 3 (41%) and Tanner 4 (35%) breast development at first evaluation. One boy had additional syndromic features (macrosomia, autism, bilateral eyelid ptosis, high arcade palate, irregular teeth and abnormal gait). The pedigree analysis of patients with maternally inherited CPP revealed the following affected family members: 42 mothers, 10 grandmothers, 11 sisters, 12 aunts, and 11 female cousins. Most of the families (41) had two affected consecutive generations, while eight families had three affected generations. No consanguinity was referred. Ongoing molecular analysis revealed two rare heterozygous variants in the boy with syndromic CPP and three affected family members with precocious menarche (mother, maternally half-sister, and maternally aunt): a frameshift deletion (p.F144fs) in MKKS; and a missense variant (p.P267L) in UGT2B4, which encodes a protein involved in estrogen hydroxylation and it was related to menarche timing in genome-wide association studies. Conclusions: Maternally inherited CPP was diagnosed mainly in girls, who had thelarche at mean age of 6 years old. Dominant pattern of inheritance was more prevalent, with direct maternal transmission in 72% of the studied families. New candidate genes might be implicated with maternally inherited CPP.

Biomass Yield, Nitrogen Content and Uptake, And Nutritive Value of Alfalfa Co-Inoculated with Plant-Growth Promoting Bacteria

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) has high forage yield potential, protein quality, palatability, and digestibility, and low seasonality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of strains of Sinorhizobium meliloti and Azospirillum brasilense on the nutritive content, bromatological composition (crude protein [CP], neutral detergent fiber [NDF], acid detergent fiber [ADF], and in vitro digestibility of dry weight [IVDDW]), and shoot dry weight (SDW), relative chlorophyll index (RCI), number of tillers (NT), plant height (PH), and root dry weight (RDW) and volume (RV), of alfalfa grown in a Typic Ultisol. The experiment consisted of eight combinations of plant-growth promoting bacteria (PGPB). The treatments were as follows: T1:non-inoculated control without N-fertilizer (NI); T2: NI + N-fertilizer, and inoculated with T3: Sinorhizobium (=Ensifer) meliloti SEMIA 116 + N-fertilizer; T4: S. meliloti SEMIA 116 + A. brasilense Ab-V5 + Ab-V6 + N-fertilizer; T5: S. meliloti SEMIA 134 + N-fertilizer; T6: S. meliloti SEMIA 134 + co-inoculation + N-fertilizer; T7: S. meliloti SEMIA 135 + N-fertilizer; and T8: S. meliloti SEMIA 135 + co-inoculation + N-fertilizer. S. meliloti strains are used in commercial inoculants for the alfalfa, and A. brasilense for several non-legumes and legumes in Brazil. The experiment was performed for three successive cuts under greenhouse conditions. Application of N-fertilization increases the production cost, making alfalfa cultivation unviable. Inoculation with three strains of Sinorhizobium meliloti highly promoted alfalfa growth, considering several parameters, including PH, RCI, NT, SDW and RDW, nutritive value, and with an emphasis on RV, and total N content and total N accumulated in shoots and roots. No further increases were observed with the co-inoculation with the PGPB A. brasilense. Studies in field and greenhouse conditions are necessary to verify the benefits of the use of PGPB in the cultivation of alfalfa.

Phenotypic characteristics of young men and women depending on the type of constitution and low body weight

Asthenic type of constitution and low body weight are traditionally associated with hereditary disorders (dysplasia) of connective tissue (HDCT). Another specific signs of HDCT is dolichostenomelia (skeletal imbalances). The prevalence of signs of dysembryogenesis and skeletal imbalances in young people depending on sex, type of constitution and body mass deficiency have not been previously assessed.&#x0D; Materials and methods. We examined 967 practically healthy people aged 18 to 25 years (330 boys and 637 girls) and 119 boys with a diagnosis of body weight deficiency by help general examination, phenotypic and anthropometric examinations.&#x0D; Results. Most bone signs of dysembryogenesis significantly often detected in young men: keel-shaped chest deformity (4% vs 1%, p 0.01) and funnel chest deformity (19% vs 9%, p 0.01) deformations of thorax, high palate (39% vs 28%, p 0.01), the growth of teeth (36% vs 19%, p 0.01) and dolichostenomelia. Girls are characterized by a high frequency of joint hypermobility (50% vs 24%) and atrophic striae (30% vs 14%, p 0.01). The bone signs (symptoms of arachnodactyly and chest deformities) detected more often in people with body weight deficiency, and the skin signs and joint hypermobility revealed more often in young people with normotrophy. Comparison of the frequency of signs of dysembryogenesis and skeletal imbalances in groups with asthenic and normal constitution did not reveal differences. All of external signs were found with equal frequency in individuals with different types of physique.&#x0D; Conclusions. Body weight deficiency in young men is closely related to bone signs of dysembryogenesis, while the asthenic type of constitution is not a reliable marker of connective tissue defect.

Go/no-go for food: Attention bias and intention to eat unhealthy food

ObjectiveThe current research evaluated whether Go/No-go training for highly palatable (HP) food affected attention bias for HP food (an automatic/implicit outcome) and intention to eat unhealthy food (a controlled/explicit outcome). MethodA sample of Australian adults representative for age, gender and Body Mass Index (BMI) (N = 561, Mage = 46.31 years, SD = 16.75, 52.3% women, MBMI = 27.11, SD = 6.34) completed self-report measures of dietary psychological constructs and food image modified Stroop tasks as measures of pre- and post-test attention bias for HP food. After random assignment of participants to two conditions, a Go/No-go intervention was used to train HP food targeted inhibitory control in the experimental group, or general inhibitory control in the control group. All research tasks were delivered online. ResultsThe experimental, HP food inhibitory control training group reported intention to eat less unhealthy food than the control group, F (1, 637) = 4.81, R2 = 0.09, p = .029. Counter to expectations, the experimental group exhibited a heightened attention bias to HP food images after the training, F (1, 637) = 9.48, R2 = 0.39, p = .002. ConclusionGo/No-go training for food may improve both top-down and bottom-up inhibitory control, using both automatic and controlled processes. Further, it may not be effective in lowering attention bias for HP food, but may be effective in lowering unhealthy food intake despite raising attention bias for HP food. Further research that tests these effects using varied reaction time tasks is needed to confirm these results and to explore possible alternative explanations.