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Feeding preference is critical for insect adaptation and survival. However, little is known regarding the determination of insect feeding preference, and the genetic basis is poorly understood. As a model lepidopteran insect with economic importance, the domesticated silkworm, Bombyx mori, is a well-known monophagous insect that predominantly feeds on fresh mulberry leaves. This species-specific feeding preference provides an excellent model for investigation of host-plant selection of insects, although the molecular mechanism underlying this phenomenon remains unknown. Here, we describe the gene GR66, which encodes a putative bitter gustatory receptor (GR) that is responsible for the mulberry-specific feeding preference of B. mori. With the aid of a transposon-based, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein-9 nuclease (Cas9) system, the GR66 locus was genetically mutated, and homozygous mutant silkworm strains with truncated gustatory receptor 66 (GR66) proteins were established. GR66 mutant larvae acquired new feeding activity, exhibiting the ability to feed on a number of plant species in addition to mulberry leaves, including fresh fruits and grain seeds that are not normally consumed by wild-type (WT) silkworms. Furthermore, a feeding choice assay revealed that the mutant larvae lost their specificity for mulberry. Overall, our findings provide the first genetic and phenotypic evidences that a single bitter GR is a major factor affecting the insect feeding preference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Possessing excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability and good reactive activity, silk fiber has been attracting great attention in biomedicine including surgical suture, drug delivery and tissue engineering. So far, several protocols have been developed to further improve the mechanical properties of the silk fiber. In current study, a novel in suit biomineralization strategy was developed to produce nano-hydroxyapatite (HA) strengthened silk fiber based on the natural alkaline condition in the body of silkworm by feeding the silkworm with ion precursors of Ca 2+ and PO 4 3− ions. Our observation proved that nanocomposite silk fiber contained more α-helix and random coil structures and fewer β-sheets. Tensile test showed that such obtained silk fiber has superior mechanical properties compared to normal silk fiber. To the best of our knowledge, no attempts have been made to fabricate the nanocomposite SF by in situ biomineralization and such protocol established in the current study may shed light on the investigation of nanoparticles reinforced silk fiber organisms of Bombyx mori . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the diet, mother type and sex of the offspring on the mechanical and geometric parameters of long bones as well as bone tissue density in minks. Primiparous and multiparous dams were supplemented with β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (a metabolite of leucine, at the daily dosage of 0.02 g/kg of body weight) and/or 2-oxoglutaric acid (a precursor of glutamine, at the daily dosage of 0.4 g/kg of body weight) during gestation. The diet did not influence bone tissue density and the length of the humerus. An increase in the length of the femur was noted in male offspring delivered by multiparous dams. The diet resulted in an increase in the weight of the humerus in males from multiparous dams and a decrease in offspring from primiparous dams. Heavier femora were noted in male offspring delivered by both types of dams. The maximum elastic strength of the humerus was higher in the offspring delivered by multiparous than primiparous dams, irrespective of the offspring sex. The diet resulted in reduction in the ultimate strength of the femur in the male offspring delivered by primiparous dams. Only females born by multiparous dams, irrespective of the diet, showed a significant increase in the cross-sectional area of the humerus, while a significant decline was noted in males delivered by multiparous dams and in all the offspring delivered by primiparous dams. An increase in the cross-sectional area of the femur was noted in the offspring delivered by multiparous dams, while reduction was observed in the offspring delivered by primiparous dams. These results have shown for the first time that the presence of β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate or 2-oxoglutaric acid in the diet of pregnant primiparous or multiparous dams unambiguously affects the geometry and mechanical properties of offspring's long bones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) clonal complex (CC) 398 is widespread in the Danish pig production with around 90% of herds being positive. Since 2009, cases of CC398 LA-MRSA infections in Danish mink farmers have been observed. The objective of the study was to examine the presence of LA-MRSA in farmed mink. The investigation comprised three different sample types 1) clinical samples from carcasses submitted to the laboratory for diagnostic examination, 2) paws and pharyngeal swabs from healthy animals collected at pelting, and 3) feed samples from mink feed producers. In clinical samples, LA-MRSA was found in 34% of submissions and was most prevalent in samples from paws (33%) and pharynx (17%), followed by nasal and intestinal samples (each 13%), whereas it was never detected in perineal samples. LA-MRSA was found in healthy animals on 40% of the investigated farms, including paw samples (29%) and pharyngeal samples (16%). Twenty out of the 108 feed samples from feed producers were positive for LA-MRSA. The dominant spa -types were t034 and t011 associated to CC398, corresponding to the dominant spa -types detected in the Danish pig production, from which slaughter offal is used for mink feed. The spa -types, the high prevalence of LA-MRSA on paws and in pharynx, and its detection in feed samples, suggest feed as a possible source of LA-MRSA in mink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work evaluated the effect of different concentrations (5, 10, and 20%) of Bordeaux mixture (Bm) in the diet of the silkworm caterpillars in order to improve the cocoon production and structural and mechanical properties of the ensuing silk. The cocoon yield, tensile properties, and microstructure (X-ray diffraction, surface fracture, and qualitative composition) of the obtained silk fiber threads were determined. The mortality levels of caterpillars fed on mulberry leaves with Bm were up to 80% higher than the rates observed on caterpillars fed on non-treated leaves. The consumption of leaves decreased as the amount of Bm introduced to the caterpillars' diets was increased. However, the lower demand of leaves by caterpillars fed on leaves treated with 5 and 10% of Bm did not imply in obtaining lower cocoon productivity, as the raw silk rates were not different in comparison to the control group. The tensile strength and maximum strain of the fiber were greatly improved, whereas the toughness was not statistically improved by the presence of Bm in the diet. There was an increase in the concentration of Ca and Cu in the silk fiber threads treated with Bm, leading to higher crystallinity. If the cocoon producers were rewarded with an increase in cocoon quality, the application of Bm could be interesting, despite the increase in caterpillars' mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American mink ( Neovison vison ) is used for commercial fur production in Denmark. In recent years, antimicrobial prescription for Danish mink has been increasing. In this study, the patterns and trends in antimicrobial use in mink were described and a multi-variable variance analysis was carried out with the objective of identifying risk factors for antimicrobial use on herd level. The study was based on register data for 2007–2012. Information on antimicrobial use was obtained from the national database VetStat, monitoring all medicinal products used for animals on prescription level. Data on microbiological feed quality was obtained from the Voluntary Feed Control under the Mink producers Organization, and data on herd size and the relation between farm and feed producer was obtained from the registers at Kopenhagen Fur, based on yearly reporting from the mink producers. Descriptive analysis showed a clear significant effect of season on antimicrobial use, with a peak in “treatment proportions”, TP (defined daily doses per kg biomass-days) in May, around the time of whelping, and a high level in the following months. In autumn, a minor peak in antimicrobial use occurred throughout the study period. From 2007 to 2011, a 102% increase in annual antimicrobial TP was noted; on herd level, the increase was associated with an increasing frequency of prescription, and a decrease in the amounts prescribed in months with prescription. A binomial model showed that on herd level, the annual number of months with antimicrobial prescription was significantly ( p < 0.01) affected by feed producer, veterinarian , disease (specific laboratory diagnosis) infection, herd size and year , with an interaction between feed producer and year . A log-normal model showed that in months with antimicrobial use, the TP on herd level was significantly ( p < 0.001) affected by year, month (season) , feed producer , feed quality score, veterinarian, herd size and laboratory confirmed diagnosis of specific infections; additionally the interaction terms year × feed producer and herd size × month were significant ( p < 0.001). In conclusion, antimicrobial use on herd level was significantly associated with the microbiological food quality, the feed producer, and the veterinarian. The prescription patterns varied significantly between veterinarians, and some veterinarians were associated with both larger and more frequent prescriptions of antimicrobials at herd level. Herd size is associated with different prescription patterns. Finally, infection with P seudomonas aeruginosa , astrovirus, influenza virus and Salmonella spp. was associated with an increase in antimicrobial use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted during 2012 to 2014 at the Department of Sericulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore to evaluate the castor cultivars suitable for eri chawki silkworm rearing and its subsequent performance. Eri silkworm(Samia Cynthia ricini Boisduval) is a non-mulberry domesticated silkworm belongs to the family Saturnidae of the order Lepidoptera. Eri silk is produced by Samiacynthiaricini). Eri silkworm is a polyphagous insect and castor is the preferred host for its rearing. Eri silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini Boisduval was reared using eight castor cultivars viz., DCH-519, 48-1, DCS-9, GCH-4, DCH-177, GAUCH-1, JC-12 and Bangalore local. The eri silkworms fed on leaves of GAUCH-1 cultivar showed marked variation with respect to larval weight and larval duration of chawki worms. The least total larval duration (21.67days) was noticed in larvae fed with leaves of GAUCH-1. Further, cocoon weight, shell weight, pupal weight, effective rate of rearing (ERR) and silk productivity were also superior in the batches of silkworms fed on leaves of GAUCH-1 cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The objective of the study was to assess the effect of mink feed supplementation at weaning on the hygiene and sanitary conditions of feed and selected parameters of animal health . The experiment was carried out in two stages. In the first stage of the study, as 0.5% addition of bentonite and a 1% supplement are incorporated into the daily feed intake mink experimental groups D1 and D2, respectively. In the second step, the increase in the proportion of bentonite in the two groups is up to 1% and 1.5%. K group (control group) was not supplemented. The microbiological examinations of the chosen indices of mink feed were performed twice in each feeding period. The mink health state was monitored and evaluated via hematological analyses and lysozyme activity. The research results enable a conclusion that the application of sodium bentonite in the analyzed amounts does not negatively influence the analyzed parameters of mink blood. In fact, it may be recommended to reduce fungus numbers in feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The knowledge, adoption and impact of chawki rearing training has been assessed by using pre-tested structured interview schedule for the study in the Karnataka state commercial Chawki Rearing Centres (CRC). The study revealed that after training CRC owners gained knowledge about loose egg brushing technique for bivoltine hybrids and had awareness about mulberry variety suitable for chawki rearing (VI and S36). Application of Farmyard manure (FYM) and plant protection (20%) measures had also significant impact after training. In case of pruning, chawki garden maintenance and training of mulberry garden have not given importance. CRC owners gained significant impact on knowledge level of number of feedings. There is a significant improvement in adoption of loose egg brushing (60%). The adoption of chawki rearing technologies especially transportation of chawki worms, more than 95% of the larvae from the CRCs transported before completion of first moult and the impact was very less (20%) on transportation of chawki worms. Extension programmes should have also extended to CRC owners for those who are diluting the chawki rearing concept for better technology adoption and viable system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bombyx mori orphan G protein-coupled receptor, BNGR-A4, is the specific receptor of B. mori neuropeptide F (BmNPFR, neuropeptide F designated NPF). BmNPFR binds specifically and efficiently to B. mori neuropeptides BmNPF1a and BmNPF1b, which activates the ERK1/2 signaling pathway to regulate B. mori food intake and growth. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs) can promote B. mori growth. However, whether the mechanisms of TiO 2 NPs’ effects are correlated with BmNPFR remains unknown. In this study, the effects of TiO 2 NPs (5 mg/L) feeding and BmNPFR-dsRNA injection on B. mori food intake and growth were investigated; after TiO 2 NPs treatments, B. mori food intake, body weight, and cocoon shell weight were 5.82%, 4.64%, and 9.30% higher, respectively, than those of controls. The food intake, body weight, and cocoon shell weight of the BmNPFR-dsRNA injection group were reduced by 8.05%, 6.28%, and 6.98%, respectively, compared to the control. After TiO 2 NPs treatment for 72 h, the transcriptional levels of BmNPFR, BmNPF1a, and BmNPF1b in the midgut were 1.58, 1.43, and 1.34-folds, respectively, of those of the control, but 1.99, 2.26, and 2.19-folds, respectively, of the BmNPFR-dsRNA injection group; the phosphorylation level of MAPK was 24.03% higher than the control, while the phosphorylation level of BmNPFR-dsRNA injection group was 71.00% of control. The results indicated that TiO 2 NPs affect B. mori feeding and growth through increasing the expression of BmNPFR. This study helps clarify the roles of BmNPF/BmNPFR system in TiO 2 NPs’ effects on B. mori feeding, growth, and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of replacement of graded dietary fish meal ( FM) protein (0, 50%, 60%, 70% and 80%) with silkworm pupae meal ( SP) in juvenile Jian carp. Triplicate groups comprising 18 fish (15.96 ± 0.66 g) were fed one of five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets (designated SP0, SP50, SP60, SP70 or SP80) for 8 weeks. The final body weight and specific growth rate of fish in the SP60, SP70 and SP80 groups were significantly lower than those for fish in the SP0 group ( P < 0.05). The muscle protein content in the SP50 group was significantly higher than in the SP80 group ( P < 0.05). With increasing FM replacement levels, the hepatic superoxide dismutase ( SOD) activity decreased and the malondialdehyde ( MDA) content increased among the groups, with the significant difference appeared in SP80 group. The gene expression level of heat shock protein 70 in the SP70 group was significantly higher than in the SP0 group ( P < 0.05), while that in the SP80 group was significantly less than in the SP70 group ( P < 0.05). Significantly decreased intestinal protease activity, increased serum ALT and AST activities, irregular-shaped hepatocytes and intestinal microvilli were found in the SP80 group. The study demonstrates that it is practical to replace 50% of the Jian carp dietary FM protein with SP, higher SP levels are not recommended and that oxidation status of the SP should be carefully assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the effect of silkworm larva ( Bombyx mori) diet supplementation with two amino acids (threonine and valine) on the cocoon production and on the structural and mechanical properties of the silk produced. Negligible morphological differences were observed in the silk fiber threads from silkworm larvae supplemented with the tested amino acids. Higher production (yield) of silk was obtained using threonine in the diet of the silkworm. The treatments with threonine have increased the limit of proportionality, tensile strength, toughness, and maximum deformation of the thread of silk fibers. No significant increment in these properties was observed due to the increase in the threonine content. The treatments with valine led to lower increase in tensile strength and toughness. The real density of the silk has decreased with the use of supplements. The present study contributes to engineering of advanced silk materials, which should be attractive candidates for multipurpose applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of dietary substitution of silkworm ( Bombyx mori L) meal ( SM) for fishmeal ( FM) on the growth performance and non-specific immunity of sea cucumber ( Apostichopus japonicus) (initial weight: 12.8 ± 0.16 g) was determined. Four isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets were formulated: Diet 1, which served as the control diet, contained 5% FM; Diet 2 contained 3.75% FM and 1.25% SM; Diet 3 contained 2.5% FM and 2.5% SM; and Diet 4 contained 5% SM. Other ingredients in each of the four diets were kept in the same proportion. After 8 weeks of feeding, the results showed that sea cucumbers fed Diet 2 had 18.7% increases in weight over those fed the control diet, but no significant difference was observed. No obvious difference in body wall composition was detected among the sea cucumbers fed the four different diets. Immunity analysis indicated that phagocytosis and serum alkaline phosphatase activity were not significantly ( P > 0.05) affected when FM was partially or completely replaced with SM. Serum lysozyme activity of sea cucumbers fed Diet 4 showed a significant ( P < 0.05) growth increase compared with those fed control diet. The results revealed that SM could be an effective substitute for FM in sea cucumber diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study on intensification program through reproduction and feeding management was conducted for si× months to evaluate the growth and reproductive performance of wild silkworm, Attacus atlas. The e×periment was divided into two phases: 1) the first phase was conducted on mating management, by applying different times of mating duration of 3, 6, 12, and 24 h as treatments to assess eggs production. In this phase, a completely randomized design was used, with 4 treatments and 5 replications; 2) the second phase was on feeding management, a completely randomized design method (2 × 2) was used, including feed (guava and walnut leaves) as first factor, and the second factor was feeding times (3 and 4 times/day) with 5 replications. The results obtained from the first e×periment showed that different duration of mating significantly (P<0.05) affected the number of eggs produced. Based on time efficiency 6 hours mating duration produced higher egg production (226 egg/cycle), as well as hatchability (95%) than those of other mating duration. In the second e×periment, it was found that there was interaction between feed types and feeding frequencies which significantly (P<0.05) affected feed consumption, feed digestibility, body weight gain, diameter of larvae and mortality rate. In conclusion, the optimum and efficient duration sugested for mating is si× hours resulting high egg production. The walnut leaves feed has better effect on the first and second instar of larvae, while the guava leaves affect the following instars. In terms of production, four times of feeding frequency per day has higher productivity and is recommended in the cultivation management of A. atlas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty liver syndrome is a metabolic disorder that occurs in mink (Mustela vison). The aim of this study was to compare the effects of dietary fat sources (chicken oil, fish oil and soybean oil) on the recovery fatty liver syndrome in female mink in response to short term fasting for 5 days and subsequent re-feeding for 7-28 days. Food deprivation resulted in the rapid mobilization of body fat, causing an elevated hepatosomatic index and increased liver lipid content. Re-feeding resulted in a more pronounced recovery of liver health in the mink fed the fish oil diet than chicken oil or soybean oil diet. The fish oil diet was found to be useful to relieve the severity of hepatic lipidosis in mink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aimed to investigate the opinion of 30 designers on the use of silk cocoons as raw material for creating products of decorative and handicraft art. The answers have pointed out that the most designers are interested to use silk cocoons in order to process, color and design as such or in combination with other materials, using mainly the manual method which involves creativity, the setting up of unique original products, reflecting the material warmth ad beauty. The main achievable products of silk cocoons in the designers' opinion, in their order of importance, are: decorative pictures on a specific theme (80%), sewed belts (50 %), colored necklaces (46.6 %) and floral brooches (33.3 %). As a conclusion, silk cocoons, mainly the unreeling ones, could be successfully processed in handicrafts and decorative art products as an alternative for production diversification, increased value added and income in the family sericicultural farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated digestibilities of nutrients and feed efficiency in female mink at the different dietary protein levels during the mink growth period. Effects of dietary protein on growth performance of minks were also measured. Sixty 45-day-old healthy female minks were randomly assigned to 6 treatment groups with 10 animals in each group. Animals were fed diets varying in protein levels: 28% (Group I), 30% (Group II), 32% (Group III), 34% (Group IV), 36% (Group V) and 38% (Group VI), respectively. The digestibilities of key nutrients were determined on Day 14 after initiating the experiment and the last 3 days. From the beginning of the study, body weight and feed intake were weighed and recorded every other week in order to calculate the average daily bodyweight gain and the feed efficiency. The trial had demonstrated that nitrogen intake was greatly significantly different, which was affected by dietary protein levels (p < 0.001). Growth performance of minks was impaired when dietary protein level was at 28%. When dietary protein level was at 34%, minks had the best daily gains, feed efficiency, and digestibilities of some key nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors evaluated effects of feeding ranch mink ( Mustela vison) diets containing polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-contaminated fish from the upper Hudson River (New York, USA) on adult and offspring organ mass and pathology. Diets contained 2.5 to 20% Hudson River fish, providing 0.72 to 6.1 µg ΣPCBs/g feed (4.8-38 pg toxic equivalents [TEQWHO 2005]/g feed). Absolute thyroid and adrenal gland masses were increased in adult females and 31-week-old juveniles, respectively, and absolute liver and heart masses were decreased in six-week-old kits exposed to dietary PCBs. Dietary concentrations of 0.72 µg ΣPCBs/g feed (4.8 pg TEQWHO 2005/g feed) and greater induced mandibular and maxillary squamous epithelial proliferation in adult animals. The dietary concentration of ΣPCBs predicted to result in 20% incidence of the jaw lesion (EC20) was 2.3 µg ΣPCBs/g feed (15 pg TEQWHO 2005/g feed), and the hepatic concentration was 2.8 µg ΣPCBs/g liver (89 pg TEQWHO 2005/g liver). The EC20 values were greater than the dietary and hepatic concentrations predicted to result in a 20% increase in kit mortality (LC20) at six weeks of age (0.34 µg ΣPCBs/g feed or 2.6 pg TEQWHO 2005/g feed and 0.80 µg ΣPCBs/g liver or 13 pg TEQWHO 2005/g liver). However, the EC20 values reflect exposure of adults to PCBs for approximately six months, and the LC20 values reflect exposure of offspring from conception onward. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:794-801. © 2013 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry Morus alba is very important food of Silkworm Bombyx mori. L (Bombycidae: Lepidoptera). Healthy and lustery leaves are the need of Silkworm for rearing them for cocoon production. Therefore, seasonal abundance of weevils Myllocerus discolar and M.viridanus have been reported on mulberry garden. Both species were found on mulberry throughout the year but they were abundant from July to October. The adults were found feeding on tender leaves, buds and grubs on roots of mulberry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to investigate if adult mink females characterised as having a high or low residual feed intake (RFI) differed in their response to feed restriction with regard to activity, body weight loss and physiological parameters. For RFI-High, the activity was higher prior to the expected feeding time both in the cases of restrictive and ad libitum feeding indicating a changed RFI-High feeding motivation and a higher risk of developing stereotypic activity. The body weight gain and the feed consumption were higher for RFI-High than for RFI-Low when feeding ad libitum indicating that RFI-High has a higher growth potential and/or a higher energy requirement than RFI-Low. Signs of immunosuppression were shown in connection with restrictive feeding compared to ad libitum feeding, and RFI-High females seemed to be more susceptible to immunosuppression than RFI-Low females. Based on the present results, mink characterised as RFI-Low would be preferable as breeders because they involve lower feed costs and seem to be less susceptible to immunosuppression. They also seem to have less risk of developing stereotypic activity, which is beneficial for the welfare. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this research was to assess if the supplementation of the silkworm diet with soybean water soluble extract (WSE) interferes on the consumption of mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) by the caterpillars and on cocoon production. The experimental design was completely randomized in factorial arrangement 4x5, with four mulberry varieties ('IZ64', 'IZ56/4', and 'FMSM' 'FM86') and five diets (untreated control leaves, leaves moistened with water and leaves enriched with WSE, in three levels). The WSE was sprayed on the leaves with water as dispersing agent. The consumption was measured by the difference between the quantity of food provided and the amount that was not consumed by the larvae. The consumption was presented quadratic form, which decreased as the WSE was added on diet. There was interaction between cultivar and diets. Silkworm fed diets containing leaves of mulberry with addition of 10% of crude protein through WSE improved the quality of cocoons with utilization of 'IZ56/4' and 'FMSM' cultivars. The sprayed of WSE on leaves of 'IZ64' cultivar decreased production of cocoons. Silkworm fed with leaves without supplementation produced heavier cocoons shells of the 'IZ64' and 'FMSM' cultivars. Water sprayed on leaves provided higher weight of cocoons shells from 'FM86' cultivar. The WSE supplementation in diets decreases consumption of silkworm. The WSE sprayed influences cocoon production depending on the cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to evaluate the influence of Zinc, administered as food supplement for silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) on the larvae weight, the weight of the serigene gland, cocoon weight, cocoon shell. The research has been carried out on 5 groups of silkworms one control group (Gr.1) and 4 experimental groups (4 groups receiving zinc), consisting of 50 larvae/group. Zinc was administered in doses of 17, 34, 68 and 136 mg kg-1 larvae - Gr.2-Gr.5. The use of Zinc determined a very significant increase of the larvae weight, to group Gr.5 followed by groups Gr.4, Gr.3 and Gr.2 compared to the control group. The use of Zinc positively influenced the mass of the serigene glands, the cocoon weight, cocoon shell. The Zn content of the pupae from the experimental groups was higher compared to the one recorded in the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of folic acid on nutritional indices and nutritional efficiency parameters of the silkworm Bombyx mori Linnaeus 1758 were studied. The fifth instar silkworm larvae were fed with mulberry leaves fortified with two different concentrations (100 mg/ml and 150 mg/ml) of folic acid. The results were compared with that of a control larval batch fed with normal leaves sprayed with distilled water. The results indicated that nutritional indices such as ingesta, digesta, reference ratio, approximate digestibility and consumption index were significantly higher in the folic acid-treated silkworm batches. Similarly, nutritional efficiency parameters such as efficiency of ingested and digested food into larva, cocoon and shell were significantly higher in the treated batches. Moreover, the ingesta and digesta required to produce one gram of cocoon and shell were significantly lower in the treated batches. Oral administration of folic acid increased the assimilation and conversion efficiency of silkworms and also increased productivity parameters such as cocoon weight and shell weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This experiment compared the behaviour of mink during two different feeding routines; slightly restrictive (‘food free period’ of 6h) or standard (‘food free period’ of 2h), respectively, and the mink''s use of two different types of occupational material; an attached tube made of wire mesh and a shorter loose tube made of plastic, respectively. The behaviour of the mink was observed by scanning on 2 days in weeks 4, 10, 14, and 18 after weaning. On the first day, the mink were observed every hour from sunrise to sunset and fed at normal feeding time (13:00h) but on the second day the feeding time was postponed to 15:00h and the behaviour was registered once an hour from 12:00h until 14:00h inclusive. The daily feed ratio, live body weight, behaviour, temperament, and fur quality were measured. The results indicate that a slightly restrictive feeding, based on 6h ‘food free period’, is difficult to practise because mink increase their eating speed and thereby maintain their energy intake and body weight. The mink were not able to compensate for a ‘food free period’ of 12h, which may cause the feeling of hunger measured as increased stereotypic behaviour during postponed feeding and a more aggressive temperament. However, restrictive feeding may be profitable for the health of mink by reducing the occurrence of the obesity related illness wet belly (urine leakage). It is concluded that 6h ‘food free period’ is not a feasible management tool for reducing the deposition of fat in mink but 12h ‘food free period’ increases stereotypic behaviour, which may indicate reduced welfare due to an enhanced feeding motivation. The two types of enrichments did not affect the fur-quality differently and neither the stereotypies. The mink used the attached tubes more than the loose ones, which may have reduced the locomotive activity, but the welfare implication of the reduced activity is ambiguously. None of the two types of enrichments seem valuable for reducing the occurrence of fur chewing in mink. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study of the alterations in the midgut digestive enzymes activities of silkworm (Bombyx mori) fed with mulberry leaves that are supplemented with Cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata). The study shows significant increase in the urease, amylase and sucrose of the midgut, while the trehalase activity decreased. Results suggest the digestion of ingested food was enhanced by the supplementation of Vigna unguiculata with mulberry leaves at 7.5% concentration.

Our research material involved Mustela neovison mink feed collected at a farm during two feeding seasons: in preparation for animal reproduction and winter fur coat development. The feed was divided into 3 treatment groups -- the control with no bentonite supplement and 2 others with dietary sodium bentonite additive at doses of 1% and 1.5% of weighed feed portion. The material was studied for total count of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, total fungal numbers, hemolyzing streptococci, and Salmonella rods. The analyzed material did not show the presence of hemolyzing streptococci or Salmonella rods that evidences good sanitary condition of feed. The highest percentage of microbial reduction was determined in the feed samples obtained from the period of animal preparation for reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents information on the ancient rearing of Chinese oak silkworm, Antheraea pernyi through a research paper. It is discussed that artificial rearing of silkworm in china was first documented in 270 A.D. but was first appeared in the year 1651 in Shandong Sheng, China. It further states that in the domestication of modern Chinese oak silkworm only one geographical distinct event had occurred.

Abstract: Silkworm could be an alternative to provide edible animal protein in Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) for long-term manned space missions. Silkworms can consume non-edible plant residue and convert plant nutrients to high quality edible animal protein for astronauts. The preliminary investigation of silkworm culture was carried out in earth environment. The silkworms were fed with artificial silkworm diet and the leaves of stem lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. angustana Irish) separately and the nutritional structure of silkworm was investigated and compared, The culture experiments showed that: (1) Stem lettuce leaves could be used as food of silkworm. The protein content of silkworm fed with lettuce leaves can reach 70% of dry mass. (2) The protein content of silkworm powder produced by the fifth instar silkworm larvae was 70%, which was similar to the protein content of silkworm pupae. The powder of the fifth instar silkworm larvae can be utilized by astronaut. (3) The biotransformation rate of silkworm larvae between the third instar and the fifth instar could reach above 70%. The biotransformation cycle of silkworm was determined as 24 days. (4) Using the stem lettuce leaves to raise silkworm, the coarse fiber content of silkworm excrements reached about 33%. The requirements of space silkworm culture equipment, feeding approaches and feeding conditions were also preliminarily designed and calculated. It is estimated that 2.2m3 of culture space could satisfy daily animal protein demand for seven astronauts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single incident of attempted predation of a Harbor Seal ( Phoca vitulina) pup by an American Mink ( Neovision vision) was observed on Blakely Island, Washington in 2015. San Juan County Marine Mammal Stranding Network members responded, investigated the event, and performed a necropsy on the seal. Predation is the most parsimonious explanation for the attack due to the American Mink's opportunistic predatory tendencies and the vulnerability of the moribund Harbor Seal. With both the American Mink and Harbor Seal populations documented as abundant or at carrying capacity, respectively, mink predation on vulnerable Harbor Seal pups could increase or influence Harbor Seal haul-out behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present study was planned to evaluate Co(II) toxicity in silkworm population. The soil was irrigated using synthetic wastewater to determine the effects of pH and initial cobalt concentration in its bioaccumulation in silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) food chain. The amount of cobalt in wastewater, soil, mulberry and silkworm was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) analysis. The obtained results clearly indicate that silkworm can be used as template to indicate local cobalt pollution as its body length, body weight and mortality rate was found to be strongly related to cobalt concentration. Higher the cobalt amount in mulberry leaves more the toxicity to silkworm population. At 400mg/L Co concentration and pH 4 there was maximum deposition of Co in the soil from the synthetic effluent. However, in plants and silk worm the accumulation of Co was maximum at pH 4.5 at an initial Co concentration of 400mg/L in the synthetic effluent. The maximum cobalt found in wastewater, soil, mulberry and silkworm was 400±0.01, 273.5±0.04, 42.85±0.01, 36.62±0.22mg/kg, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper focuses on the problem about a configuration with complete nutrition for humans in a Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) applied in the spacebases. The possibility of feeding silkworms to provide edible animal protein with high quality for taikonauts during long-term spaceflights and lunar-based missions was investigated from several aspects, including the nutrition structure of silkworms, feeding method, processing methods, feeding equipment, growing conditions and the influences on the space environmental condition changes caused by the silkworms. The originally inedible silk is also regarded as a protein source. A possible process of edible silk protein was brought forward in this paper. After being processed, the silk can be converted to edible protein for humans. The conclusion provides a promising approach to solving the protein supply problem for the taikonauts living in space during an extended exploration period. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Obesity is a common health problem in captive budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus). The welfare of budgerigars would be increased in a housing system limiting obesity. The aim of this study was to measure the influence of 3 different housing types on feeding behaviour and energy balance. Fifty-four budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) were housed in male-female pairs in cages and aviaries with the feeders 37cm under the perches in cages and in one type of aviary, and 120cm under the perches in the other type of aviary during 3 series of 5 weeks. The effects of these different treatments were evaluated by 15-min live behavioural observations, 10–14-h feeder video recordings, single Doubly Labelled Water (DLW) measurements, and biometric measures. The treatments had an effect on the proportion of time spent feeding, the food consumption, the behaviours performed in the arbitrarily defined vertical levels, the flight activity, the feeding frequency, and the duration of feeding bouts. There was no effect on body mass change or Daily Energy Expenditure (DEE). The less time they spent during one feeding bout, the more often they fed. The longer the perch–feeder distance was, the less time the birds spent feeding. DEE strongly correlated with the condition (i.e. body mass/(tarsus length)3). Courtship feeding was associated with a significant increase of DEE in males. The last series performed in summer strongly differed from the two previous series performed in winter and spring. The birds gained mass in the third series only, and their DEE was also significantly lower. This serial effect was greater than the influence of the treatment. From a welfare perspective, housing conditions may modify the behaviour but may not reduce the risk of obesity of budgerigars. Instead, individual behaviour of the birds (especially courtship behaviour) as well as unknown external factors were important. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Mulberry is a perennial and economically important plant that has traditionally been used for feeding the silkworm. Evaluating genetic relationship is important for long-term improvement in mulberry yield, quality and resistance, and for germplasm conservation and identification. Population structure and genetic diversity of 8 mulberry populations from different ecotypes in China were analyzed by ISSR markers. Twelve ISSR primers generated a total of 83 amplification products, of which 50 were polymorphic, revealing 60.24% polymorphism among 66 mulberry local varieties, the mean PIC value was 0.1469. The total heterozygosity (H T), heterozygosity within population (H S), diversity between populations (D ST) were 0.1600, 0.0851 and 0.0749, respectively. The coefficient of population differentiation (G ST) was 0.4683, indicating that the variations among populations and those within populations contributed 46.8% and 53.2% to the total heterozygosity, respectively. The gene flow (N m) was 0.5678, suggesting that genetic drift between populations can caused local genetic differentiation and therefore, population divergence. The mean genetic similarity coefficient was 0.8456, genetic similarity coefficient among 8 mulberry populations ranged from 0.8441 to 0.9640, indicating that genetic diversity of different populations existed variation. A dendrogram of all 66 local varieties of mulberry based on the genetic similarity using ISSR markers was generated by UPGMA cluster method. In the dendrogram, most varieties from the same ecotype clustered together. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The experiment was conducted to study the effects of fermentation of barley, using two different strains of lactic acid bacteria, a Lactobacillus plantarum/pentosus strain isolated from spontaneously fermented rye sourdough (AD2) and a starch-degrading Lactobacillus plantarum (AM4), on contents of mixed-linked (1 → 3) (1 → 4)-β-glucans, α-amylase inhibitor activity, inositol phosphates, and apparent digestibility of macronutrients in mink. Effects of fermentation were compared with effects of gamma irradiation (γ-irradiation: 60Co γ-rays at 25 kGy). The diets were fed to mink with and without a supplementary enzyme preparation. Both lactic acid fermentation and γ-irradiation followed by soaking and incubation, reduced concentrations of soluble β-glucans, phytate and α-amylase inhibitor activity. Dietary enzyme supplementation increased significantly digestibility of crude protein, fat, starch and crude carbohydrate (CHO). Fermentation of the barley increased digestibility of starch and CHO. Fermentation with lactic acid bacteria AD2 resulted in higher starch and CHO digestibility than strain AM4, and had greater effect than γ-irradiation, soaking and incubation. The highest digestibility of starch and CHO was obtained after AD2 fermentation followed by enzyme supplementation. It is concluded that both lactic acid fermentation of barley and enzyme supplementation have positive nutritional implications in the mink by limiting the effects of antinutrients and improving digestibility and energy utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A study was conducted to determine whether changes in thyroid and vitamin A dynamics were induced in ranch mink exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. Adult female mink were fed diets that contained 0% (control), 10%, 20%, or 30% wild carp (Cyprinus carpio) collected from the Saginaw River, Michigan, USA. Total polychlorinated biphenyls concentrations were 0.03, 0.83, 1.05, and 1.69mg/kg feed, respectively; the 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-diozin toxic equivalents were 3.4, 27.9, 47.6, and 73.2ng/kg, respectively. Diets were fed 3 weeks prior to breeding and throughout gestation and lactation. When the kits were weaned at 6 weeks of age, they were continued on their respective diets until 27 weeks of age. Plasma thyroid hormone concentrations, thyroid gland activity and structure, and vitamin A dynamics were assessed in young mink at 6 and 27 weeks of age. Plasma total T4 and free T4 in 6-week-old female and male kits fed the 10% carp diet were significantly higher than those of controls, while kits fed the 20% and 30% carp diet had nonsignificant decreases relative to the control mink. Plasma total T3 concentrations in 27-week-old juvenile males fed the 30% carp diet were significantly lower than those in individuals fed the 10% carp diet. No overt thyroid toxicity was apparent as thyroid weight, activity, and structure in kits and juveniles of both sexes were similar among diet groups. Plasma retinol and total ester concentrations in both kits and juveniles were reduced in mink fed the 30% carp diet relative to controls. The ratio of retinol to retinyl palmitate in livers of juveniles fed the 30% carp diet was two times higher than that in control mink. Significant reductions in kidney retinol and fatty acyl retinyl esters were observed in kits and juveniles fed the 30% carp diet relative to control values. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mulberry, Morus spp. has a wide range of use, the chief among them is to feed the silk producing caterpillar Bombyx mori L. (Bombycidae; Bombycoidea). As a homeland of mulberry, India has a number of indigenous mulberry species, of which a few are widely cultivated. In the present investigation genetic distance among such eleven mulberry cultivars originated from six different states of India covering a wide geographic area extending from 15° N to 32° N latitude and 72°E to 89°E longitude was studied using inter-simple sequence repeat primers. Out of the 20 primers tested, 13 primers, viz, nine di-nucleotide, three tri-nucleotide and one penta-nucleotide repeats, gave clear and reproducible band profiles. While the (AT)n rich primers could not amplify the DNA, the (GA)n, (AC)n and (AG)n rich primers gave excellent amplification profiles. The genetic distance among the cultivars varied from a minimum of 0.053, between Punjab local and Bombay local, to a maximum of 0.431, between Almora local and Sujanpur-5. Clustering of the cultivars according to nearest neighbor method created three groups. The north-Indian cultivars made a separate and distinct group while the cultivars originated from eastern and southern India occupied a distinct position. Almora local was found quite different from others. The first two canonical functions identified through discriminant function analysis accounted for 91.2% of the total variability. Distribution of cultivars belonging to six different zones on canonical matrix realized from Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA) revealed wider variability for West Bengal, Karnataka and Punjab which reaches the group centroids of Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. This attests to the past contribution of West Bengal in east and Karnataka in south towards development of mulberry cultivars in different parts of India. Step-wise linear regression analysis, further, identified two markers (825.1400 and 835.750) associated with leaf yield, which also satisfied the Beta estimation, thereby testifying strong association of these two markers with leaf yield. This finding along with the classification of the eleven cultivars bear strong relevance to mulberry breeding for different agro climatic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of different dietary levels of marine lipids in the diets with a constant distribution of metabolizable energy (ME) on protein, fat and carbohydrate were investigated in male mink kits in the growing-furring period during 2 consecutive years. The physiological investigations included 15 males per experimental group, each consisting of about 75 males. Fat herring and mackerel scrap were used in amounts resulting in levels of marine lipids of 30, 50 and 70% of total dietary lipid, respectively. Defatted herring scrap was used in proportions of 12, 23 and 32% in the diets. Haematocrit value, haemoglobin concentration, number of erythrocytes, leucocytes and platelets, plasma activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) and creatine kinase (CK), concentrations of tocopherols in plasma, liver and adipose tissue, composition of fatty acids (FA) in liver and adipose tissue, body weight, weight of liver and heart in relation to body weight, and liver fat content were studied. The number of platelets decreased with an increasing proportion of marine lipids of total content of dietary lipids. A high intake of fatty fish products had no influence on the health status of the animals evaluated by haematological and clinical-chemical analyses, vitamin E status and FA composition in growing-furring male mink. No negative effects on the health of the animals were demonstrated when feeding with defatted herring scrap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigations on the use of fatty herring (Clupea harengus) scrap and mackerel (Scomber scombrus) (whole and scrap), and defatted herring scrap for male mink kits in the growing-furring periods were carried out in two consecutive years. Each year, three diets containing fatty herring scrap and three diets containing fatty mackerel, supplying 30, 50 or 70% of the dietary fat were compared with a control diet supplying only 20% of dietary fat as marine fat. In one of the experiments, another three groups were fed 12, 23 or 32% of defatted herring scrap in the diet. Each experimental group consisted of ∼75 male Scanglow mink kits. The energy content of the feed was 8.5 MJ kg[sup -1] and there was ∼360 g crude protein per kg dry matter in all diets. When supplying up to a level of 50% of the fat from marine fat, the same or better weight gain, pelt length and fur quality in male mink kits were found compared with the control group. Increasing the proportion of dietary fat from herring scrap or mackerel up to 70% reduced both pelt length and fur quality compared with inclusion of 50% marine fat. Defatted herring scrap resulted in good pelt length and fur quality compared with the control group when used in proportions up to 32% of the diet, and the product is a good alternative feedstuff for mink feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports on the exposure of mink to various amounts of carp or Cyprinus carpio collected from Saginaw Bay in Lake Huron in Michigan and observation for reproductive effects. Characterization of dietary exposure of mink to planar halogenated hydrocarbons (PHH); Validation of the use of the H4IIE bioassay for use in mink; PHH toxicity.

Larvae of Bombyx mori fed on the mulberry leaves treated with pyriproxyfen extended the larval duration. The silkworm on the third day of the fourth instar fed pyriproxyfen 10-6 concentration extended the fifth instar duration over 20 days and was not able to spinning silk. Pyriproxyfen was treated at the third day of the fourth instar, the first day of the fifth instar and the fifth day of the fifth instar larvae, the larval body weights were higher by 49%, 38%, 44% than those of the control, respectively. Pyriproxyfen was treated at the third day of the fourth instar, the first day of the fifth instar and the fifth day of the fifth instar larvae, pupal ratio was 91.3%, 80.0%, 12.0% of the control, respectively. Pyriproxyfen was treated at the third day of the fourth instar, the first day of the fifth instar and the fifth day of the fifth instar larvae, the single cocoon weights were 2.11g, 2.99g, 3.83g and cocoon shell weight was 43.2cg 40.9g 20.1g, respectively. When pyriproxyfen was treated at the third day of the fourth instar, the first day of the fifth instar and the fifth day of the fifth instar larvae, the maximum fifth larval silk gland weight of the fifth instar treatment was lower by 59%, 54% than those of the control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the effect of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) from Saginaw Bay carp on the hepatic cytochrome P-450 activity in minks. Use of biomarkers to indicate consumption and biological effects of PCB in the environment; Impact of environmental contaminants in minks.

Examines the effects of dietary exposure of minks to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) through the addition of Saginaw Bay carp to the diet on estrogen and progesterone receptor concentrations. Possibility of mechanisms where PCB have antiestrogenic effects; Measurement of hepatic estrogen binding site.