Mean Separation Research Articles

Horizontal Scales of Small‐ and Meso‐Scale Field‐Aligned Current Structures at Middle and Low Latitudes

AbstractBy utilizing the close orbital separation between Swarm A and C during the Counter Rotation Orbit phase, we check the agreement and stationarity between the FAC‐associated magnetic signatures at the two spacecraft through cross‐correlation analysis. When the agreement and stationarity are passed, the magnetic signature is considered suitable for small and meso‐scale Field‐aligned currents (FAC) estimates with dual‐spacecraft technique. It is found that at low and middle latitudes the dayside wave structure with apparent periods of about 10–60s can be observed around 90% of the time during all seasons. From those 90% can be identified as quasi‐static current structures. On the nightside, the shorter period signatures dominate the apparent period spectrum. At about 30% of the time structures with 1–7s periods are observed. For the longer period signals the proportion is reduced greatly. About 80% of these signatures with periods longer than 3s are identified as quasi‐static current structures. By taking advantage of the constantly changing longitudinal orbit separation during the considered time intervals, we can determine the mean separation at which the correlation breaks down. This provides FAC scale sizes in east‐west direction separately for FACs of various latitudinal wavelengths. The result shows that typical east‐west scale sizes of FAC structures with latitudinal wavelength of 10–400 km range from 10 to 60 km, respectively. FAC‐related structures on the nightside have been associated with medium‐scale traveling ionospheric disturbances and structures on the dayside primarily with FACs driven by atmospheric gravity waves.

Effects of parity, season of birth, and sex on within-litter variation and pre-weaning performance of F1 Large White × Landrace pigs.

A piglet's pre-weaning performance significantly influences both animal welfare and profitability in pig production. Understanding piglet pre-weaning performance influencing factors is key to enhancing animal welfare, reducing losses, and boosting profitability. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of parity, season of birth, and sex on within-litter variation and pre-weaning performance of F1 Large White × Landrace pigs. Information regarding total litter size, number of born alive, number of stillbirths, piglet weight at birth, mortality, and count of weaned F1 Large White × Landrace piglets was acquired from the farm database (April 2022-February 2023). 2602 females and 2882 males, a total of 5484 piglets were utilized, with records from 360 sows. The coefficient of variation (CV) of birth weights among piglets within a litter was calculated. The general linear model analysis in MiniTab 17 was used to evaluate the data, with Fisher's least significant difference test (p < 0.05) used for mean separation and Pearson's moment correlation coefficient calculated to assess relationships between survival rates, mortality rates, litter size, birth weight, and birth weight CV. Parity had a statistically significant impact on litter size, birth weight, and survival rate (p < 0.05). The sow's parity did not significantly (p > 0.05) impact the number of piglets born alive or weaned. Multiparous sows had a significantly larger litter size (p < 0.05) than primiparous sows at birth. The litter weights for parities 2, 4, and 5 did not significantly differ (p > 0.05), with averages of 20.95, 20.74, and 20.03 kg, respectively. About 91.29% was the highest survival rate recorded in parity 2 (p < 0.05). The 1st week of life recorded an 8.02% mortality rate. The mortality rate in parity 3-5 group was significantly (p < 0.05) higher (11.90%) in week 1 than in the other groups (parity 1: 6.79%, parity 2: 5.74%, parity 3-5: 8.54 and 9.21%). The litter sizes in autumn (17.34) and spring (17.72) were significantly larger (p < 0.05) than those in summer (16.47) and winter (16.83). In autumn and spring, the survival rate (83.15 and 85.84%, respectively) was significantly lower (p < 0.05) compared to summer (88.40%) and winter (89.07%). In all seasons, the litter weights did not significantly differ (p > 0.05). The birth weight CV was significantly (p < 0.05) lower during summer (20.11%) than during spring (22.43%), autumn (23.71%), and winter (21.69%). The season of birth had no significant effect (p > 0.05) on the number of live piglets. Males (1.34 kg) were heavier (p < 0.05) than females (1.30 kg) at birth. Notably, the birth weight CV was similar between males (22.43%) and females (22.52%). Litter size was positively correlated with average litter weight (rp = 0.576, p < 0.001), birth weight CV (rp = 0.244, p < 0.001), and mortality rate (rp = 0.378, p < 0.001). An insignificant relationship was observed between average litter weight and birth weight CV (rp = -0.028, p > 0.05) and survival rate (rp = -0.032, p > 0.05). In F1 Large White × Landrace pigs, birth uniformity among piglets declines as litter size grows larger. In parity 3-5, multiparous sows yield litters with reduced uniformity. With an increase in litter size, uniformity among piglets at birth worsens. A larger litter size and greater piglet birth weight variation are linked to a higher pre-weaning mortality rate. Producers need a balanced selection approach to boost litter size and must cull aging sows carefully to introduce younger, more productive females.

The application of organic liquid fertilizer C. glomerata and NPK Phonska to enhance agronomic efficiency in maize cultivation on Alluvial soil

&lt;p&gt;Fertilization is crucial in maize cultivation, and inorganic fertilizers can be expensive. Therefore, it is essential to provide alternative fertilizers to reduce dependence on inorganic fertilizers. This study investigated the role of organic liquid fertilizer &lt;em&gt;C. glomerata&lt;/em&gt; (OLFC) in increasing the efficiency of NPK Phonska fertilizer, influencing soil chemical reactions, and enhancing the growth and yield of maize on alluvial soils. The materials used were hybrid maize of the Pioneer 32, OLFC, and NPK Phonska (15-15-15). The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) in factorial. The OLFC was applied at 0 mL L&lt;sup&gt;-1&lt;/sup&gt;, 5 mL L&lt;sup&gt;-1&lt;/sup&gt;, and 10 mL L&lt;sup&gt;-1&lt;/sup&gt;; NPK Phonska Fertilizer at 0, 150, and 300 kg ha&lt;sup&gt;-1&lt;/sup&gt; in three replications. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using ANOVA at 5%. Level of significance and mean separation using the LSD at 5% probability. The following parameters were evaluated: soil chemical properties and agronomic factors, such as the height of crop, net assimilation rate, relative growth rate, weight of 100 seeds, yield, and agronomic efficiency (AE). The highest maize yield recorded was 4.83 tons per hectare, achieved by applying 150 NPK Phonska kg per hectare, supported by a fertilization efficiency of 11.28%. Adding 5 mL per liter of OLFC every two weeks to maize plants resulted in the highest AE, reaching 21.81%.&lt;/p&gt;

AGRONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF HUMIC AND FULVIC ACIDS, FUNGI, BACTERIA, USED IN THE CULTURE OF THE SECOND SAFRA

The implementation of the research took place in the period corresponding to the second harvest of the 2022/2023 agricultural year, by the company Pesquisa e Consultoria Agronômica, in geographic coordinates located at 28°18'18'' south latitude, 38°15' 21'' longitude west. The research aimed to evaluate, through the application of biological products, whether it would be possible to obtain more vigorous and productive plants, in order to quantify their agronomic efficiency, thus validating the use of new technological alternatives in nutritional management in corn cultivation. The P3707 hybrid was used and the composition of the treatments is T1: Control treatment with Azospirillum brasilense bacteria (AbV5) (0.100 L ha-1) (planting juice); T2: Azospirillum brasilense (AbV5) (0.100 L ha-1) + Trichoderma asperellum BV10 (0.100 L ha-1) + Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (0.200 L ha-1) (planting juice); T3: Azospirillum baldaniorum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens; Bacillus proteolyticus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.200 kg ha-1) (planting juice); T4: Azospirillum brasilense (AbV5) (0.100 L ha-1) + Humic and fulvic acids, Azospirillum baldaniorum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens; Bacillus proteolyticus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.200 kg ha-1) (TS); T5: Humic and fulvic acids, Azospirillum brasilense (AbV5) (0.400 L ha-1) + Azospirillum baldaniorum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens; Bacillus proteolyticus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.400 kg ha-1) (planting juice); T6: Humic and fulvic acids, Azospirillum brasilense (AbV5) (0.100 L ha-1) + Azospirillum baldaniorum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens; Bacillus proteolyticus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.400 kg ha-1) (TS). The technological variables evaluated include plant population at the phenological stage (R5), plant height (V3 and R1), root diameter (V3 and R1), insertion height of the first ear, number of ears per plant, root volume (V3 and R1 ), fresh mass of roots (V3 and R1), dry mass of roots (V3 and R1), thousand grain weight, kilogram productivity per hectare. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and the means of the treatments compared using the Tukey method of separation of means, using R Core Team (2019) with a significance of 5%. The application of humic acid, fulvic acid, fungi, bacteria in seed treatment provided gains in fresh aerial part mass, grain weight and greater productivity of the corn crop.

The effects of incorporating dried cashew apple in the diet of broiler chickens on growth performance, total tract digestibility, and gut health

A total of two hundred and ten one-day-old Ross 308 broiler chicks were utilized in this study to investigate the effects of incorporating Dried Cashew Apples (DCA) in the diet of broiler chickens on growth performance, total tract digestibility, and gut health. The birds were weighed and randomly allotted to seven treatment groups with three replicates, each having 10 birds. The experimental design was a (2 X 3) + 1 augmented factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design. Diet D1 (control diet) was a maize-soybean meal-based; diets D2, D3, and D4 comprised 10, 20, and 30% DCA without exogenous enzyme supplementation, whereas diets D5, D6, and D7 included 10, 20, and 30% DCA treated with exogenous enzyme. Data were collected on growth performance, total tract digestibility, and gut morphology. Collected data were analyzed using SAS (2002) and separation of means was done using Duncan’s Multiple Range Tests of the same statistical software. The difference was set at p &lt; 0.05. The study found that birds fed diets containing 10% DCA, with or without enzyme supplementation (D2 and D5), had a significantly higher Average Daily Gain (ADG) compared to those fed the control diet (D1). The ADG of birds fed diets D3 and D6 was similar to that of birds fed the control diet (D1). However, a significant decrease in ADG was observed as the dietary inclusion level of DCA increased to 30%, as seen in birds offered diets D4 and D7. In addition, a significant linear rise (p &lt; 0.05) in Average Daily Feed Intake (ADFI) was seen when DCA was included in the diet. In addition, birds that were given diets containing DCA showed significantly higher nutrient digestibility (p &lt; 0.05) compared to birds that were given the control diet (D1), except for birds that were given a diet containing 30% DCA without enzyme supplementation (D4), which showed significantly lower nutrient digestibility (p &lt; 0.05) compared to birds that were given the control diet (D1). Ultimately, birds that were given meals containing DCA exhibited a significant enhancement in GIT development compared to birds on the control diet. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that including DCA in the diet of broiler chickens at a level of up to 20% does not have any detrimental effects on their performance.

Alnus glutinosa (Alder) sapling as a phytoremediator for cadmium in contaminated soil of industrial park

Heavy metals can contaminate soil through human activities such as mining, waste disposal, excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and fossil fuels. In Iran, uncontrolled urban growth and lack of waste collection systems have led agricultural lands to become receptors of urban and industrial waste, resulting in the contamination of soil with cadmium, which has negative consequences for the environment and health. Alder sapling may have considerable potential for phytoremediation. The soil was placed in plastic pots of 40 cm in diameter with 7 kg air-dried weight soil per pot, spiked with solutions of cadmium chloride [Cd Cl2.H2O] at rates of 0 (control), 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg in a solution. The analyzed data revealed a significant reduction in vegetative growth (plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll, stem diameter growth, stem dry weight, root dry weight, and leaves dry weight). The means were compared to assess the impact of cadmium accumulation on certain biochemical and physiological characteristics. The mean separation was performed using Duncan's Multiple Range test with a p-value ≤0.05. However, there was a simultaneous significant increase in enzymatic activities (peroxidase and catalase) and an increase in proline compared to control plants. The bioconcentration factor of stem, leaves, and roots was under one. The translocation factor (TF) of cadmium was more than 1, and cadmium contents were more localized in roots compared to leaves and stems, minimizing the risk of contamination through leaves. Alnus glutinosa has defense mechanisms against cadmium up to 19.5 mg/kg soil, as the tolerance index for roots and biomass is more than 0.8. Finally, it is a good candidate for research on phytoremediation and phytoextraction.

Effect of Substrate on Growth and Development of Ganaderma Lucidum Karst Cultivation in Bao Loc - Lam Dong - Vietnam

Purpose: The study of "the influence of substrate on growth and development of Ganaderma lucidum cultivation in Bao Loc - Lam Dong" was conducted at the Technology College of economy and technology of Bao Loc from May to September 2023 with the aims of selectingsuitable substrates for growth and development in Reishi, completed the processes of Reishi artificial cultivation in Bao loc. Methodology: Database involved nine treatments: rubber tree sawdust 75% + rice bran 25% supplemented urea 0,25%; rubber tree sawdust 95% + rice bran 5% supplemente urea 0,25% and DAP 0,25%; rubber tree sawdust 100% supplemented SA 0,5% and DAP 0,25%; rubber tree sawdust 96% + 2% maize powder + 2% rice bran; rubber tree sawdust 90% + maize powder 10% ; rubber tree sawdust 75% + maize powder 10% + rice bran 15%; rubber tree sawdust 95% + rice bran 5% supplemented DAP 0,2% , SA 0,2% and urea 0,1%; rubber tree sawdust 70% + rice bran 30%; control treament (rubber tree sawdust 90% + rice bran 5% + 5% maize powder). Experimental design was a Completely Randomized Design with 3 replications. The data were analyzed by using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and group means were compared by Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMR) using the SAS 9.1 program. Means separation were computed following Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Findings: Results were achieved: Significant difference was observed in biological yield, dry yield and biological efficiency of Reishi (Ganaderma lucidum) on differences substracts .The highest biological yield (52,11 g/packet) and biological efficiency (15,79%) was obtained from mixed rubber sawdust 70% + 30% ridce brain Unique Contribution toheory, Policy and Practice: Complete the process of growing Ganoderma mushrooms in Bao Loc, orienting the development of Lam Dong into a large medicinal mushroom production area in Vietnam, creating Ganoderma mushroom products for export to the world.

Carbonate mounds formed by mud volcanism at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary, Saudi Arabia

More than 1000 mound structures have been mapped in shallow marine sediments at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary in the Rub’ Al-Khali of Saudi Arabia. Mapping used 3D reflection seismic data in a 37,000 km2 study area. No wells penetrate the mounds themselves. The mounds are at a present-day subsurface depth of approximately 1 km, and they are convex-up with diameters of 200–400 m and elevation of 10–15 m. The mounds display spatial self-organization with a mean separation of approximately 3.75 km. Comparison with mound populations in other study areas with known spatial distribution statistics and modes of origin indicates that the mound population in this study has the characteristics of fluid escape structures, and they are interpreted here as mud volcanoes. The observation that the mounds occur at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary demands a singular trigger at that moment in time. We develop a model of seismic energy-related mud volcanism mechanism including the Chicxulub asteroid impact as the energy source that accounts for the timing of the mound structures and a drainage cell model based on producing water wells that provides a mechanism for spatial self-organization into a regular pattern.

265 Effect of L-glutamine and enzyme supplementation of liquid creep feed from d 8 to 28 of age on pre-weaning growth and health of pigs

Abstract The provision of liquid creep feed has been shown to increase dry matter intake (DMI) compared with dry creep feeding. The greater DMI associated with liquid feeding means that it could be used as an effective route for feed additive supplementation of suckling pigs to optimize growth and health at weaning. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of L-glutamine or enzyme supplementation of liquid creep feed on growth and medication usage in suckling pigs. Sows (n = 60) were blocked on parity, previous number of piglets weaned and body weight (BW) at d 107 of gestation, and randomly assigned to one of 3 dietary treatments from d 8 of age to weaning at d 28: 1) liquid starter (control); 2) control supplemented with 10 kg of L-glutamine per tonne of starter diet (glutamine); and 3) control supplemented with a cocktail of enzymes (lipase, protease and α-amylase included at 200 g, 50 g and 112.5 g, respectively per tonne of starter diet; enzymes). Individual piglets were weighed on d 8, 14, 21 and 27 of age. Litter dry matter intake, the volume of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories administered per pig and per sow were recorded for the pre-weaning period. Data were analyzed using the mixed models procedure in SAS (version 9.4; SAS Institute Inc.) with treatment as a fixed effect, and day post-partum as the repeated measure. Block was included as a random effect and the number of pigs/litter at d 8 and the average pig BW at d 8 were included as co-variates when significant in the model. Means separation was by Tukey’s adjustment for multiple comparisons. The piglet nested within sow was the experimental unit. The DMI of creep feed did not differ between treatments (P &amp;gt; 0.05). From d 14 to 21, glutamine decreased average daily gain (ADG) by 7% compared with the control (P &amp;lt; 0.05). However, ADG did not differ between treatment groups from d 8 to 14 or from d 21 to 27. Body weight was not affected by treatment at d 8 or 14 (P &amp;gt; 0.05). However, at d 21, glutamine tended to reduce BW by 2% compared with the control (P = 0.09) and at d 27, it tended to reduce BW by 2% compared with the control and enzymes (P = 0.08). The volume of antibiotics or anti-inflammatories administered to piglets or sows was not affected by treatment. However, glutamine tended to increase diarrhea incidence by 12% between d 8 and 27 compared with the control (P = 0.09). In conclusion, supplementing liquid creep feed with 10 kg of glutamine/tonne of feed reduced pre-weaning growth and tended to increase diarrhea incidence in piglets. In addition, supplementing liquid creep feed with enzymes had no effect on pre-weaning growth and medication usage in piglets.

47 Application of a ‘high’ or ‘low’ energy matrix to a nutrient-reduced diet supplemented with a novel phytase maintained growth performance and conferred production and sustainability benefit

Abstract This study assessed the capacity of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) to maintain growth performance of weaned pigs when added to a nutrient-reduced mixed cereal diet with two levels of dietary net energy (NE) reduction applied. A total of 360 newly weaned pigs [Greater York × Norsvin Landrace; initial body weight (BW) 8.4 ± 0.78 kg] were assigned to 60 floor-pens and 5 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design. There were 2 blocks (weaning group), 6 replicate pens per block, and 6 pigs/pen (3 male, 3 female), in total of 12 replications per treatment. Diets were based on wheat, corn, barley, and soybean meal and were offered to pigs in 2 phases in pelleted form (0–14 and 14–35 d post-weaning). Treatments comprised a nutritionally adequate positive control (PC) and 4 negative control (NC) diets supplemented with PhyG. The NC diets were reduced in digestible P, Ca, Na, and digestible amino acids vs. PC, according to the expected contribution of PhyG added at 1,000 phytase units (FTU)/kg (NC1) or 2,000 FTU/kg (NC2), respectively. Each NC1 and NC2 was formulated at two NE reduction levels, designated ‘low’ and ‘high’ (‘low’: -53 to -65 kcal/kg and ‘high’: -73 to -86 kcal/kg, vs. PC at 1,000 and 2,000 FTU/kg PhyG, respectively). Data were analyzed by ANOVA. Means separation was by Tukey’s HSD test. During both phases and overall (0–35 d), average BW, average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in all PhyG-supplemented, nutrient- and NE-reduced treatments, were either not different or were improved compared with the PC. Overall ADG, ADFI, and final BW (d 35) were greater in NC2+PhyG 2,000 FTU/kg ‘low’ vs. PC (466 vs. 424 g, 9.9%, 622 vs. 567 g, 9.7%, and 24.7 vs. 23.1 kg, 6.9%, respectively; P &amp;lt; 0.05). Total feed costs (ingredients price, February 2023) and estimated carbon footprint (CFP; FeedPrint, WUR, The Netherland) per kilogram of BW gain (BWG) were reduced in all PhyG-supplemented, nutrient- and NE-reduced treatments vs. PC. Feed costs saving per kg BWG were greater with ‘high’ than ‘low’ NE reduction applied (-0.013 vs. -0.007 €, respectively, vs. PC) with PhyG at 1,000 FTU/kg, and it was greatest in NC2+PhyG 2,000 FTU/kg with ‘low’ NE reduction (-0.036 € vs. PC). Similarly, the CFP was reduced from 2,068 to 1,840 g CO2 eq/kg BWG (-11 %) by NC2+PhyG 2,000 FTU/kg with ‘low’ NE reduction vs. PC. In conclusion, the application of a full nutrient matrix with ‘high’ or ‘low’ NE reduction combined with supplementation of PhyG maintained growth performance of weaned pigs and reduced the total feed costs and carbon footprint per kg BW gain, lead to production and sustainability benefits.

51 Application of an energy and nutrient matrix to a mixed cereals-based diet supplemented with a novel phytase and xylanase–β-glucanase achieved a production benefit from wean-to-finish in pigs

Abstract The effect of a novel consensus bacterial 6-phytase variant (PhyG) without or with a xylanase–β-glucanase (XB) when added to an energy and nutrient-reduced diet on growth performance and production benefit was evaluated in pigs from wean-to-finish. A total of 192 weaned pigs [DanBred x Pi; initial body weight (BW) 7.18 ± 0.38 kg] were randomized to 4 treatments with 12 (4 piglets/pen) and 24 pens (2 pigs/pen) per treatment (1:1 male to female) for nursery and grow-finish phases, respectively. Diets were wheat-corn-barley-rye-soybean meal-based and fed in 5 phases (pre-starter, 7–11 kg, starter, 11–25 kg, grower I, 25–55 kg, grower II, 55–85 kg and finisher, 85–110 kg BW). Treatments comprised: 1) a nutritionally adequate positive control (PC); 2) a negative control (NC1) without added inorganic phosphate, reduced (based on specific PhyG dose) in net energy (NE), calcium (Ca), digestible amino acids (AA) and sodium (Na) vs. PC, supplemented with PhyG at 1,000, 1000, 750, 500 and 500 FTU/kg during pre-starter, starter, grower I, II and finisher phase, respectively (NC1+PhyG ‘low’); 3) a negative control (NC2) without added inorganic phosphate, supplemented with PhyG at 2,000, 2,000, 1,000, 750 and 750 FTU/kg in each phase with reduction in NE, Ca, dig AA and Na vs. PC based on the specific PhyG dose (NC2+PhyG ‘high’); and 4) a negative control (NC3) that was similar to 2) but supplemented with XB to provide 2,400 U/kg xylanase and 304 U/kg β-glucanase, with additional reduction in NE and dig AA based on the contribution of XB vs NC1 (NC3+PhyG ‘low’+XB). Data were analyzed by ANOVA, and means separation was by Tukey’s HSD test. Growth performance in all enzyme-supplemented diets was maintained or improved compared with PC. The NC3+PhyG ‘low’+XB treatment significantly improved performance vs. PC; average daily gain (ADG) and BW were greater vs. PC in starter (620 g and 28.2 kg vs. 557 g and 26.4 kg) and grower I (859 g and 65.1 kg vs. 777 g and 60.0 kg) respectively; feed conversion ratio (FCR) was reduced in grower II vs. PC (2.10 vs. 2.25; P &amp;lt; 0.05). The final BW was 114.5, 114.8, 115.6 and 116.7 kg in PC, NC1+PhyG ‘low’, NC2+PhyG ‘high’ and NC3+PhyG ‘low’+XB, respectively (P &amp;gt; 0.05). Carcass parameters were unaffected by treatments. Compared with PC, NC1+PhyG ‘low’, NC2+PhyG ‘high’ and NC3+PhyG ‘low’+XB conferred a 3.8 to 5.8% reduction in total feed cost (ingredients price, October 2023)/kg BWG and 4.4 to 6.8% reduction in the total carbon footprint (FeedPrint, WUR, The Netherland, CO2 eq., g)/kg BWG. The results confirm the appropriacy of the applied matrix values with PhyG supplementation, with or without XB, in mixed cereal diets from wean-to-finish and highlight the potential feed cost and sustainability benefit of using the phytase alone or in combination with the carbohydrase enzymes.

PSIV-17 Effects of butyrin-based additive supplementation on nursery pig performance, fecal dry matter, serum cytokines, short chain fatty acid production, and serum chemistry

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of butyrin-based feed additives on nursery pig performance, fecal dry matter (DM), serum chemistry, and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. In Exp. 1, 250 pigs (initially body weight = 5.6 kg) were randomly allotted to 1 of 5 treatments. There were 5 pigs/pen and 10 replications/treatment. Treatments consisted of a negative control, a positive control, and three diets containing various butyrin-based feed additives. The negative control was a corn-soybean meal-based diet with no antibiotics or pharmacological content of Zn or Cu. The positive control contained 3,000 and 2,000 mg/kg of Zn from ZnO in phase 1 (d 0 to 10) and 2 (d 10 to 24), respectively, 250 mg/kg of Cu from CuSO4 in phase 3 (d 24 to 38), and 55 mg/kg of carbadox (Mecadox; Phibro Animal Health Corp., Teaneck, NJ) across all phases. The butyrin-based feed additives were added at 0.1% to the negative control diet and consisted of monobutyrin, mono-tributyrin, or tributyrin. In Exp. 2, 1,492 pigs (initially 5.1 kg) were randomly allotted to 1 of 4 treatments. There were 26 or 27 pigs/pen and 14 replications/treatment. Treatments were fed over 3 phases consisting of a control diet and 3 diets containing different mono-tributyrin blends. In phase 1 and 2, the control diet contained 55 mg/kg of carbadox and 3,000 and 2,000 mg/kg of Zn from ZnO, respectively. Each feed additive was added at 0.3% to the control diet in phase 1 and 2, and 0.1% in phase 3. Phases 1 and 2 were fed by feed budget of 2.3 and 5.4 kg/pig, respectively, and phase 3 until the completion of the study. Overall, for Exp. 1, pigs fed the positive control had increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) compared with all other treatments (Table). Pigs fed monobutyrin had decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) gain to feed ratio (G:F) compared with all other treatments. On d 24, pigs fed the positive control and mono-tributyrin had increased (P&amp;lt; 0.05) fecal DM compared with pigs fed monobutyrin and tributyrin with the negative control intermediate. On d 38, pigs fed mono-tributyrin had increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) serum haptoglobin and cecal butyrate concentration compared with pigs fed the positive and negative control, respectively, with other treatments intermediate. For Exp. 2, there were no differences in growth performance throughout the study. On d 10, pigs fed mono-tributyrin blend 3 had increased (P&amp;lt; 0.05) fecal DM compared with mono-tributyrin blend 2 with other treatments intermediate. On d 24 and 42, pigs fed mono-tributyrin blend 1 had the highest (P ≤ 0.012) IL-12 concentration, without significant mean separation on d 24. In summary, butyrin-based feed additives had limited effects on growth performance. However, supplementing butyrin-based feed additives led to alterations in fecal consistency, SCFA production, and serum chemistry.

How robust are gravitational wave predictions from cosmological phase transitions?

Abstract Gravitational wave (GW) predictions of cosmological phase transitions are almost invariably evaluated at either the nucleation or percolation temperature. We investigate the effect of the transition temperature choice on GW predictions, for phase transitions with weak, intermediate and strong supercooling. We find that the peak amplitude of the GW signal varies by a factor of a few for weakly supercooled phase transitions, and by an order of magnitude for strongly supercooled phase transitions. The variation in amplitude for even weakly supercooled phase transitions can be several orders of magnitude if one uses the mean bubble separation, while the variation is milder if one uses the mean bubble radius instead. We also investigate the impact of various approximations used in GW predictions. Many of these approximations introduce at least a 10% error in the GW signal, with others introducing an error of over an order of magnitude.

Quality Evaluation of Fermented Pre Gelatinized Unripe Plantain and Soybean Based Complementary Foods 1: Physicochemical, Sensory and Rheological Properties

Aims: This study aimed at evaluating the effect of the degree (%) of starch gelatinization (G) and fermentation (F) on the physicochemical characteristics of the flours and also the sensory and flow properties of the gruels of unripe plantain fruits and soybean seeds based complementary foods. Study Design: Completely randomized design Place and duration of the Study: This study was carried out in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria, between January and November 2023. Methodology: Plantain slices heated to obtain 10% to 100% starch gelatinization were subjected to accelerated natural fermentation followed by drying and milling to yield fermented (F) flours. Non-gelatinized (NG) and nonfermented (NF) lots served as controls. The flours were each combined with soybean flour to obtain 16 g protein/100 g of each mixture based on the proximate compositions of the inputs using material balancing technique. The flours’ oil absorption capacities (OAC), water absorption capacities (WAC), packed bulk densities (PBD), sensory attributes (taste, mouth feel, appearance, overall acceptability) and flow properties of their gruels were evaluated using standard methods. Significant differences and separation of the data means were achieved by Duncan multiple range and Turkey’s tests using an SPSS package, respectively. Results: Gelatinization and fermentation increased WAC and OAC, but decreased packed bulk density (PBD) of the flours with concomitant reduction in pH, viscosities and improved sensory attributes of the gruels. Generally, viscosities increased with increase in slurry concentration and decreased with increase in temperature and shear rates. The flow behavior indices ranged from 0.27 to 0.64, with lower values in gelatinized and fermented samples, showing more pseudoplastic behavior in pretreated samples. Conclusion: Gelatinization and natural fermentation are therefore adaptable technologies, especially at rural levels, to improve acceptability and bulk reduction of resistant starch-based complementary foods.

Determination of most suitable methodology for measuring docility in guinea fowls (&lt;i&gt;Numida meleagris&lt;/i&gt;) in Ghana

The aim of this research was to study the effect and most suitable methodology in measuring docility of Guinea fowls in Ghana. The study was carried out at the Poultry Section of the Department of Animal Science Education, University of Education, Winneba, Mampong- Ashanti campus in Ghana. Docility was measured on a 4-point scale as docile (1), flighty (2), restless (3) and aggressive (4). Seventy-nine (79) Guinea fowls of local varieties of average age 10 months were consecutively tested for docility twice a week for four weeks. The birds were tested for behavioural docility in a Completely Randomised Design experiment. Data were analysed using SAS and separation of means was done using LSD. The research revealed that the test criterion had significant (p&lt;0.05) effect on docility. Based on this observation, each individual criterion was unique and can be used independently for the assessment of docility status of the birds. The Human Presence Test (HPT), Novel Object Test (NOT), Contact Test (CT), and Handling Test (HT) produced consistent docility. The HPT, NOT and CT were similar in effect. The method that produced the greatest impact on the birds was HT and hence not suitable for assessing docility of birds. If the test methods are to be used individually, HPT, NOT and CT will be ideal. The most suitable pair of methods that assesses the underlying docility trait very effectively was HPT with NOT and is therefore recommended as the best suitable pair for cage docility scoring. The research revealed that the test criterion of docility (method of assessment) has to be chosen carefully to be used to assess or measure docility of birds.

Impact of Specific Leaf Extracts on Soil pH and Beta-Carotene in Amaranthus in Kiambu County, Kenya

Amaranthus (Amaranthus spp.) leaves are a good source of nutrients including vitamins antioxidants and dietary minerals including calcium, iron, and potassium. Soil pH is a very important chemical property of the soil, as it dictates the availability of plant nutrients. Acidic soils reduce availability of plant nutrients and hinder growth. This is corrected by adding lime which is expensive, does not add nutrients and requires re-application. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of leaf extracts from selected tree leaves on soil acidity and beta-carotene levels of amaranthus. Plant leaves that were tested were Turril (Vitex keniensis) Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) and Indian nettle (Plectranthus barbatus). The experiment setup was in a 2 x 7 factorial arrangement in a randomized complete block design(RCBDreplicated three timesThe treatments were; the three leaves extracts, lime, farm yard manure, inorganic fertilizer and control.. Leaves were dried,ground and soaked in distilledwater for sixty days as pH was monitored and the resulting extract was added to soil for amanthus grown with plant extracts. Data on plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, fresh weight and dry weight and levels of beta carotene levels were collected. AOAC method was used for analysis of beta carotene. All data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of significance using SAS and least significant difference (LSD) for means separation. The results showed that leaf extracts significantly reduced soil acidity to above (6) while inorganic fertilizer increased the acidity (pH5.9) to (5.3) on all growing conditions while humus increased acidity during rainy and irrigation conditions. On beta carotene levels, Farmyard Manure had the highest levels(51.1µg) followed by the leaf extracts with extract 3-Plectras barbatus having higher levels. Control had the lowest levels of beta carotene followed by inorganic fertilizer and lime.These results suggest that farmers should be encouraged to grow vegetables using farmyard manure and leaf extracts to increase antioxidant levels and reduce soil acidity.They should also be encouraged to grow more of trees and shrubs studied to increase forest cover.

Soil Fertility Assessment and Mapping under Different Land Use Types along Toposequence at Danka Watershed in Dinsho Districts of Bale Highland Oromia, Southeastern Ethiopia

Soil fertility assessment and mapping bases, to increase fertilizer usage efficiency, decision-makers, planners, and soil management in undulating slopes farming of Ethiopian highlands like Bale Highland. The study aimed to assess and map soil fertility status along toposequence under different land use types at the Danka watershed of Dinsho District Bale Highland, Southeastern Ethiopia. Following the initial reconnaissance field survey, 54 composite soil samples were prepared from the three land use types (natural forest, grazing, and cultivated) at three slope positions lower (0 - 10%), middle (10 - 15%), and upper (15 - 30%) at a soil depth of 0 to 20 cm. Finally, the laboratory results were interpolated using the IDW interpolation technique in ArcGIS software 10.5 for the soil fertility status map and further analyzed using R software 4.1.1 Version for mean separation. The study findings indicate that the soil texture class of the study was loam to clay loam, clay loam, and clay to clay loam at the upper, middle, and lower slope positions, respectively. The finding revealed that the values varied from 5.81 – 6.66, 2.07 – 6.25%, 0.13 – 0.71%, 2.83 – 17.56 gm/kg, and 14.04 -38.80 cmol (+)/kg) for the soil pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and CEC, respectively. In this study, most of the soil fertility status of the Danka watershed was as follows: natural forest &gt; grassland &gt; cultivated land use types and lower slope &gt; middle slope &gt; upper slope positions. In conclusion, the main factors contributing to the area's declining soil fertility status were monocropping, total crop residue removal, soil erosion, nutrient leaching, and inadequate soil management. The results of the current study offer the basis for the work of farmers, planners, decision-makers, and other agriculture-related stakeholders. Integrated soil fertility management with biophysical soil conservation measures is advisable for cultivated land at all slope positions. Further, a study on slope position-based crop response fertilizer rating for agricultural precision and ensuring food security is recommended in undulating fields of the Danka watershed.

Development and Optimization of Cassava (Manihot Esculenta) Peeling Machine

The conventional cassava peeling methods are inefficient, time-consuming, and labor-intensive This study aimed to create an enhanced cassava peeling machine with minimal flesh loss. The machine design includes components like a hopper, shafts, bearings, an electric motor, and a v belt connected to a pulley that drives the brush-equipped shaft. This locally sourced and fabricated machine, designed for 50kg of cassava tubers, was tested at operational speeds of 380, 420, and 460 rpm and retention times of 4, 6, and 8 minutes, optimizing the effects of machine speeds and peeling times on peeling efficiency using I-optimal Response Surface Experimental Design with a mean separation at P&lt;0.05. Results pertaining to tuber properties, such as angle of repose, peel thickness, moisture content, peel penetration force, bulk density, and coefficient of friction, were utilized in the machine's design. The machine achieved maximum peeling efficiency of 74% at a speed of 380m/s when operated for 6 minutes. At this optimal efficiency, the machine reached an optimal throughput capacity of 171.4kg/h, with a 21% flesh loss, a peeling weight proportion of 25.8%, and minimal tuber damage (3.3%). The desirability, which signifies the extent to which these optimal values align with the optimization goal, was 0.83 (83%). In essence, this machine significantly advances cassava peeling mechanization.

Cultivar-Specific Growth and Yield of Mukunuwenna (&lt;em&gt;Alternanthera sessilis&lt;/em&gt;) in the Low Country Wet Zone, Sri Lanka

Joyweed/Mukunuwenna (Alternanthera sessile) is a globally significant leafy vegetable, yet its maximum yield potential remains largely unrealized due to the limited genetic diversity of existing varieties. Farmers frequently lack precise knowledge about the yield potential, growth characteristics, and quality of the produce. Few attempts of research attentions were given to assess its growth characteristics, susceptibility to diseases and pests, consumer acceptability, and yield potential. Therefore, this study aims to comprehensively evaluate growth and yield traits, sensory qualities and morphological features of eight carefully selected Mukunuwenna cultivars. Thus, identifying the most suitable Mukunuwenna cultivars for the Low Country Wet Zone, Sri Lanka. In this investigation, we assessed four Mukunuwenna selections, including one wild (red) variety, alongside three local Mukunuwenna cultivars, focusing on their growth, yield and morphological characteristics under upland field conditions at the Agriculture Research Station, Thelijjawila, Sri Lanka. The study followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Data were meticulously collected for eight growth parameters and two yield parameters including average internodal distance, average leaf length, average leaf width, average number of shoots per unit area, average number of leaves per stem, average number of flowers per stem, average shoot height, average chlorophyll content, average leaf to stem ratio, and average yield per plot. The results, analyzed through ANOVA and mean separation demonstrated significant differences (P&lt; 0.05) among Mukunuwenna cultivars across various attributes, To assess the diversity in growth and yield, a principle component analysis was conducted. A sensory evaluation was performed to assess the consumer preference. Notably, the Piliyandala selection exhibited the most promising growth and yield traits, particularly excelling leaf to stem ratio and gaining the highest consumer preference. Other notable performers were the Colombo selection, Weda Mukunuwenna and Cultivar M7 showing preferable growth and yield traits with strong consumer appeal. Considering these findings, we conclude that Piliyandala selection, Colombo selection, and Cultivar M7 exhibit preferable growth and yield traits for commercial cultivation, while Weda Mukunuwenna stands out as an ideal choice for home garden cultivation under upland conditions in the Low Country Wet Zone, following recommended agronomic practices. This study’s outcomes hold significant promise for further research endeavors, focusing on enhancing desirable growth and yield traits.

Studies on the Interaction Effect of Pruning Methods and Training Systems on Growth and Yield of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus l.) Cv. Malini Grown under Protected Conditions

Aim: To study the interaction effect of pruning methods and training systems on growth and yield of cucumber cv. Malini under protected conditions. Study Design: The research plot was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD). Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in green house at vegetable block, College of Horticulture, Mojerla. Duration of crops is 3 months. Methodology: Research was carried out with 12 treatments and 3 replications Results: Pruning methods and Training systems interaction was assessed for growth and yield characters of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Cv. Malini under protected conditions during rabi season. The treatments consists of four levels of pruning i.e., P1 (Removal of flower buds up to 45cm), P2 (Removal of flower buds up to 60cm), P3 (Removal of flower buds up to 75cm), P4 (No Pruning) and three levels of training systems viz., T1 (Single head training system), T2 (Umbrella training system), and T3 (Low middle training system). Growth and yield characters were studied. Data collected was statistically analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and separation of means for significant effect was done by the use of Least Significant Difference (LSD) at 5% of probability. The results showed that among the interaction treatments maximum numbers of fruits per vine (25.33), yield per vine (6.97 kg), yield per hectare (154.90 t/ha), marketable yield (150.10 t/ha) were recorded in P3T1 followed by P2T1. Conclusion: Single head training system with pruning up to 75cm (P3T1) was found to be the best treatment and the treatment P2T1 was found on par with it.