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In dairy farms, the feeding cost, which includes the expenses for purchased feed but also the expenses for feed production, constitutes a very large part of production cost (more than 60%), which indicates the economic importance of the feeding strategy. This study discerns three different feeding strategies: landless farms only purchasing feed from markets (“Purchasing”), farms for which home-grown feeds stand for more than 10% of feeding costs (“Producing”) and farms with less than 10% home-grown feeds (“Multi-purpose”). Based on technical and economic data from 47 dairy cow farms in Greece, alternative scenarios of development of the dairy sector are determined taking into account the dependence on on-farm feed production. Through a parametric programming model, the study provides insights regarding the optimal structure of the system under different scenarios (changing availability of variable capital, changes in milk prices). The results indicate that “Purchasing” farms are the preferred option when variable capital is abundant and milk prices are satisfactory, while “Producing” are the ones surviving with milk prices significantly lower than the actual ones in Greece and European Union. “Multi-purpose” farms perform worse than the other two and are sidelined in both scenarios, as they do not seem to be able to specialize in the dairy enterprise or in crop production and thus to minimize costs.
Athanasios Ragkos; Georgia Koutouzidou; Alexandros Theodoridis. Impact of Feeding Pattern on the Structure and the Economic Performance of Dairy Cow Sector. Dairy 2021, 2, 122 -134.
AMA StyleAthanasios Ragkos, Georgia Koutouzidou, Alexandros Theodoridis. Impact of Feeding Pattern on the Structure and the Economic Performance of Dairy Cow Sector. Dairy. 2021; 2 (1):122-134.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAthanasios Ragkos; Georgia Koutouzidou; Alexandros Theodoridis. 2021. "Impact of Feeding Pattern on the Structure and the Economic Performance of Dairy Cow Sector." Dairy 2, no. 1: 122-134.
Small ruminant production is predominantly linked to the use of natural pastures; however the intensification process in past decades has led to a gradual abandonment of grazing and the prevalence of intensive patterns. This paper contributes to the discussion about the economic performance of small ruminant farms relative to the use of pastures. Using data from a sample of Greek sheep and goat farms it is shown that grazing does not necessarily increase economic performance. If not organized carefully, farms which graze more do not reduce their feeding costs or they counterbalance this reduction with increases labor expenses. An efficiency analysis of the sample using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) shows that farms which graze less are generally more efficient than the ones which graze more. Furthermore, the input-oriented DEA model reveals that the same level of output could be achieved with less a reduction of hours grazing by 12.5% and 11.9%, respectively for farms which graze less than 1800 h and more than 1800 respectively. It is concluded that a higher level of organization is required to render grazing a practice with positive economic impact on farms, including infrastructure for better accessibility of pastures, more efficient rations and training. This applies also to the framework for pasture use in Greece, as the delivery of Integrated Grazing Management Plans is expected to provide guidance and stability to small ruminant farmers.
Artemis Papadopoulou; Athanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis; Dimitrios Skordos; Zoi Parissi; Eleni Abraham. Evaluation of the Contribution of Pastures on the Economic Sustainability of Small Ruminant Farms in a Typical Greek Area. Agronomy 2020, 11, 63 .
AMA StyleArtemis Papadopoulou, Athanasios Ragkos, Alexandros Theodoridis, Dimitrios Skordos, Zoi Parissi, Eleni Abraham. Evaluation of the Contribution of Pastures on the Economic Sustainability of Small Ruminant Farms in a Typical Greek Area. Agronomy. 2020; 11 (1):63.
Chicago/Turabian StyleArtemis Papadopoulou; Athanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis; Dimitrios Skordos; Zoi Parissi; Eleni Abraham. 2020. "Evaluation of the Contribution of Pastures on the Economic Sustainability of Small Ruminant Farms in a Typical Greek Area." Agronomy 11, no. 1: 63.
The European sheep and goat sector is characterized by low professionalization and management training. Moreover, it is fragmented in terms of production aims and farming systems. Here, iSAGEDSS, a web-based application allowing dairy and meat small ruminant farmers in different countries to make annual management plans by testing future scenarios, is presented. Data were obtained for the meat sheep (United Kingdom and Spain), dairy sheep (France and Greece) and dairy goat production systems (Greece) from partners of the Innovation for Sustainable Sheep and Goat Production in Europe (iSAGE) project. These were used to set default values and ranges for all important farm parameters in each system and country. An algorithm was developed assessing nutritional management and its impact on production and financial performance. Reports focus on profitability, productivity and environmental sustainability. A case study in three dairy sheep farms in Greece was performed. In each case, an evaluation scenario was created using actual farm data that were compared with the estimated ones. Two scenarios testing management decisions for gross margin maximization and milk pricing fluctuations were created. Application results showed high prediction accuracy for gross margin and production estimation (error of circa 9% and 4%, respectively). Moreover, the ability to promote financial, production and grazing management efficiency was demonstrated.
Sotiria Vouraki; Ioannis Skourtis; Konstantinos Psichos; Wendy Jones; Carol Davis; Marion Johnson; Leticia Riaguas Rupérez; Alexandros Theodoridis; Georgios Arsenos. A Decision Support System for Economically Sustainable Sheep and Goat Farming. Animals 2020, 10, 2421 .
AMA StyleSotiria Vouraki, Ioannis Skourtis, Konstantinos Psichos, Wendy Jones, Carol Davis, Marion Johnson, Leticia Riaguas Rupérez, Alexandros Theodoridis, Georgios Arsenos. A Decision Support System for Economically Sustainable Sheep and Goat Farming. Animals. 2020; 10 (12):2421.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSotiria Vouraki; Ioannis Skourtis; Konstantinos Psichos; Wendy Jones; Carol Davis; Marion Johnson; Leticia Riaguas Rupérez; Alexandros Theodoridis; Georgios Arsenos. 2020. "A Decision Support System for Economically Sustainable Sheep and Goat Farming." Animals 10, no. 12: 2421.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of experimental Toxoplasma gondii infection on ram sperm quality. Five months old, pre-pubertal, rams were divided into four groups (n = 8 per group). Group A was the control group; the remaining animals received per os (p.o.) 5000 oocysts per ram. Group B did not receive treatment post-infection (p.i.). Group C received sulphadimidine (intermuscular injection (i.m.) 33 mg/kg for eight days; every 48 hrs) two months p.i. and Group D received the same drug twice (24 hours p.i. and two months later). Blood samples were collected every 15 days to detect serum immunoglobulin G (IgG). Epididymal sperm samples were analyzed for concentration, kinetics, morphology/viability, functional membrane integrity, DNA integrity, and the presence of parasite DNA. Histopathological examination was performed on the testes. The IgG titres in infected groups raised two weeks p.i. and remained high for four months. Higher values were noticed in viability and functional membrane integrity in positive spermatozoa in the control group compared to other groups, level of significance p < 0.05. Abnormal sperm was higher in groups C and D vs. A and C vs. B (p < 0.05). T. gondii DNA was detected in three sperm samples of the infected rams (12.5%). Histopathology revealed similar findings with little variation among all infected groups, characterized mostly by increased interstitial connective tissue, non-purulent inflammation, and presence of seminiferous tubules with spermatogenic cell depletion, which increased gradually from D to C and B groups. In conclusion Toxoplasmosis in pre-pubertal age negatively affected mature ram sperm quality, while sulphadimidine administration failed to alter this.
Theofanis Fais; Nektarios Giadinis; Elias Papadopoulos; Georgia Brellou; Alexandros Theodoridis; Radu Blaga; Delphine Le Roux; Dimitra Bitchava; Aikaterini Ntemka; Constantin Boscos; Ioannis Tsakmakidis. Effect of Toxoplasma gondii on Ram Sperm Quality After Experimental Infection. Pathogens 2020, 9, 1004 .
AMA StyleTheofanis Fais, Nektarios Giadinis, Elias Papadopoulos, Georgia Brellou, Alexandros Theodoridis, Radu Blaga, Delphine Le Roux, Dimitra Bitchava, Aikaterini Ntemka, Constantin Boscos, Ioannis Tsakmakidis. Effect of Toxoplasma gondii on Ram Sperm Quality After Experimental Infection. Pathogens. 2020; 9 (12):1004.
Chicago/Turabian StyleTheofanis Fais; Nektarios Giadinis; Elias Papadopoulos; Georgia Brellou; Alexandros Theodoridis; Radu Blaga; Delphine Le Roux; Dimitra Bitchava; Aikaterini Ntemka; Constantin Boscos; Ioannis Tsakmakidis. 2020. "Effect of Toxoplasma gondii on Ram Sperm Quality After Experimental Infection." Pathogens 9, no. 12: 1004.
Reducing the energy content of broiler diets could lead to the formulation of diets with reduced production cost. Dimethylgycine (DMG) has been used as a dietary supplement to enhance dietary fat utilization in poultry. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of DMG supplementation in reduced energy diets on performance and nutrient digestibility in broiler chickens. Four hundred and eighty day-old broilers were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments: a standard energy diet (PC treatment), a reduced energy diet by 66 kcal/kg (NC treatment) and the reduced energy diet supplemented with 500 mg/kg of DMG (DMG treatment). Fat digestibility was significantly higher in DMG group, compared to PC and NC groups. Intestines and gizzard lesion scores were found to be lower in the DMG group compared to PC. DMG supplementation resulted in lower jejunum pH and ileum viscosity in broilers. Overall, the present study showed that DMG supplementation in reduced energy broiler diets restored growth performance to the levels obtained with a standard diet. This result was probably mediated by the positive effects on the gastrointestinal function of the broilers after DMG supplementation, as evidenced by the improved nutrient digestibility, the reduced gross lesion scores and the lower values in intestinal pH and viscosity.
Sofia Chalvatzi; Georgios A. Papadopoulos; Vasilios Tsiouris; Ilias Giannenas; Ioannis T. Karapanagiotidis; Alexandros Theodoridis; Ioanna Georgopoulou; Paschalis D. Fortomaris. Dimethylglycine Supplementation in Reduced Energy Broilers’ Diets Restores Performance by Improving Nutrient Digestibility. Animals 2020, 10, 789 .
AMA StyleSofia Chalvatzi, Georgios A. Papadopoulos, Vasilios Tsiouris, Ilias Giannenas, Ioannis T. Karapanagiotidis, Alexandros Theodoridis, Ioanna Georgopoulou, Paschalis D. Fortomaris. Dimethylglycine Supplementation in Reduced Energy Broilers’ Diets Restores Performance by Improving Nutrient Digestibility. Animals. 2020; 10 (5):789.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSofia Chalvatzi; Georgios A. Papadopoulos; Vasilios Tsiouris; Ilias Giannenas; Ioannis T. Karapanagiotidis; Alexandros Theodoridis; Ioanna Georgopoulou; Paschalis D. Fortomaris. 2020. "Dimethylglycine Supplementation in Reduced Energy Broilers’ Diets Restores Performance by Improving Nutrient Digestibility." Animals 10, no. 5: 789.
European sheep and goat farming faces diverse challenges at global or local scales and constitutes an important sector for many countries, playing important sociocultural, economic and environmental roles. A closer examination of the overall sustainability of the sector is necessary to assess the performance of different farm types in various geographical settings. This comparative study evaluates the use of a common sustainability assessment (SA) tool for the major European countries in the sheep and goat sector. In particular, the study reports the results of a SA using the Public Goods (PG) Tool, adapted within the Innovation for Sustainable Sheep and Goat Production in Europe (iSAGE) Horizon 2020 project, which includes questions accounting for 13 dimensions of a sheep and goat farm sustainability. In total, 206 farmers from Greece, Italy, Spain, Finland, United Kingdom, France and Turkey were interviewed, all of which were typical of specific types of a pan-European sheep and goat farm typologies elaborated within iSAGE. The study resulted in composite indicators of performance in each dimension for each country. Finland, Italy and the United Kingdom performed better than other countries, while Turkey and Greece performed below average in most categories. The results highlight challenges for each country but also at the European level, the latter mainly relating to generational renewal and an unwillingness to invest in the adoption of a more sustainable approach with long-term results.
Christina Paraskevopoulou; Alexandros Theodoridis; Marion Johnson; Athanasios Ragkos; Lisa Arguile; Laurence Smith; Dimitrios Vlachos; Georgios Arsenos. Sustainability Assessment of Goat and Sheep Farms: A Comparison between European Countries. Sustainability 2020, 12, 3099 .
AMA StyleChristina Paraskevopoulou, Alexandros Theodoridis, Marion Johnson, Athanasios Ragkos, Lisa Arguile, Laurence Smith, Dimitrios Vlachos, Georgios Arsenos. Sustainability Assessment of Goat and Sheep Farms: A Comparison between European Countries. Sustainability. 2020; 12 (8):3099.
Chicago/Turabian StyleChristina Paraskevopoulou; Alexandros Theodoridis; Marion Johnson; Athanasios Ragkos; Lisa Arguile; Laurence Smith; Dimitrios Vlachos; Georgios Arsenos. 2020. "Sustainability Assessment of Goat and Sheep Farms: A Comparison between European Countries." Sustainability 12, no. 8: 3099.
The level of technical efficiency (TE) of farms is a complex issue largely connected to the efficient use of available resources, which in turn determines their economic performance. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is an established method to estimate TE; however, it is subject to drawbacks which sometimes reduce its ability to account differences in production scales. Indeed, the conventional DEA model allows total flexibility in the weights that a decision-making unit attaches to inputs and outputs, while in some cases, zero weights are attached to variables that are totally omitted in the efficiency analysis. Restricting efficiency weights in the DEA model, without of course eliminating the total weight flexibility assumption, guarantees zero weights, and prevents large differences in weights. In this study, an assurance region (AR) weight restricted model is applied on 66 mussel farms in order to calculate more comprehensive efficiency estimates and to obtain a meaningful and consistent picture of the efficient farm structure in economic terms, which could be potentially used for managerial suggestions, identification of best practices and innovations, and effective decision-making tool concerning mussel farm aquaculture. The cost share of the main production factors is used for imposing weight restrictions on the conventional DEA model, and a comparative descriptive technical and economic analysis of the efficient farms of the restricted and unrestricted DEA models is implemented. The results indicate that the structure of the efficient farm under the restricted DEA model is substantially diversified, formulating a new pattern of production system that achieves a higher economic performance.
Alexandros Theodoridis; Athanasios Ragkos; Georgia Koutouzidou. Revealing the profile of economically efficient mussel farms: a restricted data envelopment analysis application. Aquaculture International 2019, 28, 675 -689.
AMA StyleAlexandros Theodoridis, Athanasios Ragkos, Georgia Koutouzidou. Revealing the profile of economically efficient mussel farms: a restricted data envelopment analysis application. Aquaculture International. 2019; 28 (2):675-689.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAlexandros Theodoridis; Athanasios Ragkos; Georgia Koutouzidou. 2019. "Revealing the profile of economically efficient mussel farms: a restricted data envelopment analysis application." Aquaculture International 28, no. 2: 675-689.
Sheep and goat transhumance provides a wide range of ecosystem services (ES). Transhumance-specific dairy products could function as a nexus between the system and the public, incorporating ES which are not remunerated in markets, but in Greece, there are actually no such dairy products. Within this context, the objective of this paper was to present a case study regarding a comparative assessment of three different approaches (supply chains) in milk sales from transhumant farms. The first involved production of cheese on-farm and direct sales to consumers. In the second approach, farmers sold their milk to the same industry throughout the year, where it was mixed with milk from non-transhumant farms. The third approach concerned cheese produced solely from milk of transhumant flocks in a small dairy in the highlands. An assessment framework was developed examining the perceived quality; economic performance of farms; compatibility and; representativeness and contribution of each approach. Based on five in-depth interviews with farmers and dairies, it was found that a combination of the three approaches would be beneficial for farms—to decrease risks—and for the system as a whole, in order to convey the ‘agro-pastoral message’ to wider audiences and to increase the recognisability of transhumance. In addition, the analysis showed that the economic performance of each approach was related more to managerial issues and organizational requirements rather than to the achievement of higher prices and more added value in the first and third approach.
Athanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis; Georgios Arsenos. Alternative Approaches of Summer Milk Sales from Transhumant Sheep and Goat Farms: A Case Study from Northern Greece. Sustainability 2019, 11, 5642 .
AMA StyleAthanasios Ragkos, Alexandros Theodoridis, Georgios Arsenos. Alternative Approaches of Summer Milk Sales from Transhumant Sheep and Goat Farms: A Case Study from Northern Greece. Sustainability. 2019; 11 (20):5642.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAthanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis; Georgios Arsenos. 2019. "Alternative Approaches of Summer Milk Sales from Transhumant Sheep and Goat Farms: A Case Study from Northern Greece." Sustainability 11, no. 20: 5642.
For the production of the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, two systems are used in Greece, the ‘long-line’ and the ‘on-table’ system. In the present study, effects of farming system on prevalence of infection by some parasites of Mediterranean mussels were investigated. Three mussel culture sites, located at Thermaikos gulf, with similar profiles, where both farming systems are practiced, were selected. Two samplings took place in 2008, one in July and one in October. From each site, 30 mussels per culture system were collected. From each mussel, tissue samples from the visceral mass, mantle and gills were collected and examined histologically for the presence of any parasites. Number of mussels parasitized by at least one parasitic species was substantially increased in mussels cultured with the ‘on-table’ system. In particular, prevalence of infection by Urastoma cyprinae and Marteilia spp. was substantially increased in mussels cultured with the ‘on-table’ system, while no relation between farming system and prevalence of infection by Eugymnanthea inquilina was observed. Prevalence of infection by Myticola intestinalis, Steinhausia mytilovum and Proctoeces maculatus was considerably low in both culture systems. In addition, in both culture systems, number of the mussels infected by E. inquilina and U. cyprinae was substantially increased in October, while an opposite trend was noted for Marteilia spp.
D. Karagiannis (Δ. Καραγιαννησ); Ioannis Vatsos; Alexandros Theodoridis; P. Angelidis (Π. Αγγελιδησ). Effect of culture system on the prevalence of parasites of the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamark, 1819). Journal of the Hellenic Veterinary Medical Society 2017, 64, 113 -122.
AMA StyleD. Karagiannis (Δ. Καραγιαννησ), Ioannis Vatsos, Alexandros Theodoridis, P. Angelidis (Π. Αγγελιδησ). Effect of culture system on the prevalence of parasites of the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamark, 1819). Journal of the Hellenic Veterinary Medical Society. 2017; 64 (2):113-122.
Chicago/Turabian StyleD. Karagiannis (Δ. Καραγιαννησ); Ioannis Vatsos; Alexandros Theodoridis; P. Angelidis (Π. Αγγελιδησ). 2017. "Effect of culture system on the prevalence of parasites of the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamark, 1819)." Journal of the Hellenic Veterinary Medical Society 64, no. 2: 113-122.
This study was conducted to assess the effect of colostrum quality and quantity on Cryptosporidium spp. calf diarrhoea in an intensive dairy cattle farm in Greece. Faecal samples were collected from 100 dairy calves randomly selected and born during all 4 seasons (March 2015 to May 2016) of the year. In total, 71% of the selected calves were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts. The statistical analysis revealed influence of colostrum quality on faecal score. Linear regression showed that the colostrum quantity during the first day of life was negatively associated with the number of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in faeces. During multivariable analysis, the variables representing the quality of colostrum and the season of the calf's birth were identified as confounders. Cryptosporidium spp. is a common pathogen participating in neonatal calf diarrhoea. Colostrum management and season influence the number of Cryprosporidium spp. oocysts and faecal consistency. The above findings demonstrate novel risk factors that should be included in the strategic approaches to control cryptosporidiosis in newborn calves.
K. Arsenopoulos; A. Theodoridis; E. Papadopoulos. Effect of colostrum quantity and quality on neonatal calf diarrhoea due to Cryptosporidium spp. infection. Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 2017, 53, 50 -55.
AMA StyleK. Arsenopoulos, A. Theodoridis, E. Papadopoulos. Effect of colostrum quantity and quality on neonatal calf diarrhoea due to Cryptosporidium spp. infection. Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. 2017; 53 ():50-55.
Chicago/Turabian StyleK. Arsenopoulos; A. Theodoridis; E. Papadopoulos. 2017. "Effect of colostrum quantity and quality on neonatal calf diarrhoea due to Cryptosporidium spp. infection." Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 53, no. : 50-55.
Athanasios Gelasakis; Gus Rose; R. Giannakou; G.E. Valergakis; A. Theodoridis; P. Fortomaris; G. Arsenos. Typology and characteristics of dairy goat production systems in Greece. Livestock Science 2017, 197, 22 -29.
AMA StyleAthanasios Gelasakis, Gus Rose, R. Giannakou, G.E. Valergakis, A. Theodoridis, P. Fortomaris, G. Arsenos. Typology and characteristics of dairy goat production systems in Greece. Livestock Science. 2017; 197 ():22-29.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAthanasios Gelasakis; Gus Rose; R. Giannakou; G.E. Valergakis; A. Theodoridis; P. Fortomaris; G. Arsenos. 2017. "Typology and characteristics of dairy goat production systems in Greece." Livestock Science 197, no. : 22-29.
In this study, the non-parametric data envelopment analysis was applied in a sample of 66 mussel aquaculture farms for the estimation of the level of technical efficiency. The differences in this estimated level of efficiency were investigated through the application of a Tobit regression model and a technical and economic descriptive analysis provided an indicative picture of the structure and the economic performance of the efficient farms. The results indicated significant inefficiencies in the utilization of the existing production technology. The estimated mean technical efficiency was 0.761, indicating that the mussel farms could increase their production by 23% given the level of inputs. Moreover, the results of the Tobit regression model showed that socio-demographic variables, such as farmer’s age, experience in aquaculture, vocational training, and level of education, can partly explain the efficiency differentials. The technical and economic analysis showed that the efficient mussel farms compared to the inefficient farms are larger in size, use less labor per hectare of sea area, and achieve higher net profit.
Alexandros Theodoridis; Christos Batzios; Athanasios Ragkos; Panagiotis Angelidis. Technical efficiency measurement of mussel aquaculture in Greece. Aquaculture International 2016, 25, 1025 -1037.
AMA StyleAlexandros Theodoridis, Christos Batzios, Athanasios Ragkos, Panagiotis Angelidis. Technical efficiency measurement of mussel aquaculture in Greece. Aquaculture International. 2016; 25 (3):1025-1037.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAlexandros Theodoridis; Christos Batzios; Athanasios Ragkos; Panagiotis Angelidis. 2016. "Technical efficiency measurement of mussel aquaculture in Greece." Aquaculture International 25, no. 3: 1025-1037.
Oxidative stress is one of the major factors that contribute to poor semen quality and low rates of in vitro fertilization. Crocetin, a main constituent of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) possesses potent antioxidant activity, by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or enhancing the activity of intracellular antioxidant enzymes. The aim of this study was to investigate, for the first time, the effect of crocetin on the quality characteristics of bull spermatozoa and fertilization rate. For this reason, frozen/thawed bovine spermatozoa were incubated with crocetin (1, 2.5, and 5 μm), for 120 or 240 min, in the presence of a negative control, and evaluated in terms of motility, viability, acrosomal status, DNA fragmentation index, intracellular ROS, and lipid peroxidation. In order to evaluate the impact of crocetin on cleavage and blastocyst rate, the compound was added in the IVF medium at the previously identified optimal concentration (2.5 μm). The results indicate that incubation of spermatozoa with 2.5 μm of crocetin resulted in a statistically significant lower production of superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide, lower lipid peroxidation, and in better maintenance of motility parameters, viability, and acrosomal integrity, with a very small number of cells with DNA fragmentation, compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The presence of crocetin (2.5 μm) in the fertilization medium also resulted in a significant increase in acrosome-reacted spermatozoa and blastocyst production, compared to the control group (p < 0.01). These data indicate that crocetin (2.5 μm) positively affects bovine sperm quality characteristics during a 240-min incubation and improves its fertilizing ability, directly and/or indirectly, by regulating ROS concentration and lipid peroxidation.
V. Sapanidou; I. Taitzoglou; Ioannis Tsakmakidis; Ioannis Kourtzelis; D. Fletouris; Alexandros Theodoridis; S. Lavrentiadou; M. Tsantarliotou. Protective effect of crocetin on bovine spermatozoa against oxidative stress during in vitro fertilization. Andrology 2016, 4, 1138 -1149.
AMA StyleV. Sapanidou, I. Taitzoglou, Ioannis Tsakmakidis, Ioannis Kourtzelis, D. Fletouris, Alexandros Theodoridis, S. Lavrentiadou, M. Tsantarliotou. Protective effect of crocetin on bovine spermatozoa against oxidative stress during in vitro fertilization. Andrology. 2016; 4 (6):1138-1149.
Chicago/Turabian StyleV. Sapanidou; I. Taitzoglou; Ioannis Tsakmakidis; Ioannis Kourtzelis; D. Fletouris; Alexandros Theodoridis; S. Lavrentiadou; M. Tsantarliotou. 2016. "Protective effect of crocetin on bovine spermatozoa against oxidative stress during in vitro fertilization." Andrology 4, no. 6: 1138-1149.
Athanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis. Valuation of environmental and social functions of the multifunctional Cypriot agriculture. Land Use Policy 2016, 54, 593 -601.
AMA StyleAthanasios Ragkos, Alexandros Theodoridis. Valuation of environmental and social functions of the multifunctional Cypriot agriculture. Land Use Policy. 2016; 54 ():593-601.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAthanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis. 2016. "Valuation of environmental and social functions of the multifunctional Cypriot agriculture." Land Use Policy 54, no. : 593-601.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production above critical levels affects the genetic and functional integrity of spermatozoa by causing oxidative stress. Spermatozoa are susceptible to oxidative stress in terms of motility and fertilization capacity. Crocin (crocetin di-gentiobiose ester), a main constituent of Crocus Sativus L. (saffron), is known for its antioxidant activity by scavenging ROS, especially superoxide anion. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of crocin on the quality characteristics of spermatozoa and fertilization rate. Frozen–thawed and washed spermatozoa from four different bulls were incubated with three different concentrations of crocin (0.5, 1, and 2 mM), for 120 and 240 minutes, in the presence of a negative control, and were evaluated in terms of motility, viability, acrosomal status, DNA fragmentation index, intracellular ROS, and lipid peroxidation. The most potent concentration of crocin (1 mM) was also added in the fertilization medium to test its impact on fertilization outcome. The results indicate that the incubation of spermatozoa with 1 mM of crocin resulted in a statistically significant lower production of ROS, lower lipid peroxidation and in better maintenance of motility, viability, and acrosomal integrity, with a very small number of fragmented cells, compared to the control and the other treated groups (P < 0.05). Crocin concentration of 1 mM resulted in a significant increase of blastocyst rate, compared to the control group (P < 0.01). These data indicate that crocin (1 mM) improves bovine sperm quality and its fertilization capability, directly and/or indirectly, by modulating ROS concentration.
V. Sapanidou; I. Taitzoglou; Ι. Tsakmakidis; Ioannis Kourtzelis; D. Fletouris; A. Theodoridis; I. Zervos; M. Tsantarliotou. Antioxidant effect of crocin on bovine sperm quality and in vitro fertilization. Theriogenology 2015, 84, 1273 -1282.
AMA StyleV. Sapanidou, I. Taitzoglou, Ι. Tsakmakidis, Ioannis Kourtzelis, D. Fletouris, A. Theodoridis, I. Zervos, M. Tsantarliotou. Antioxidant effect of crocin on bovine sperm quality and in vitro fertilization. Theriogenology. 2015; 84 (8):1273-1282.
Chicago/Turabian StyleV. Sapanidou; I. Taitzoglou; Ι. Tsakmakidis; Ioannis Kourtzelis; D. Fletouris; A. Theodoridis; I. Zervos; M. Tsantarliotou. 2015. "Antioxidant effect of crocin on bovine sperm quality and in vitro fertilization." Theriogenology 84, no. 8: 1273-1282.
In Greece, up until now, monoculture has been the prevailing fish and shellfish farming system. However, in the last few years, the farmers seek to develop alternative production patterns that could improve the economic performance of their farms through the optimal utilisation of the available resources. The concept of integrated aquaculture is old; however during the last 30 years many authors have suggested various production systems, in which different species are cultured together, in order to reduce the environmental impacts of aquaculture and/or to reduce the feeding cost. In particular, people have attempted to integrate mussel and micro- or macro- algae culture into open-sea or land-based fish farming. When certain criteria are met, such integrated systems could improve the sustainability of the farms, mainly through the reduction of the waste treatment cost and the use of the mussels or the algae in the diet of the farmed fish.
Ioannis Vatsos; Panagiotis Angelidis; Alexandros Theodoridis; Christos Batzios. Integrated aquaculture - an old concept with new applications in Greece. International Journal of Data Analysis Techniques and Strategies 2015, 7, 129 -140.
AMA StyleIoannis Vatsos, Panagiotis Angelidis, Alexandros Theodoridis, Christos Batzios. Integrated aquaculture - an old concept with new applications in Greece. International Journal of Data Analysis Techniques and Strategies. 2015; 7 (2):129-140.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIoannis Vatsos; Panagiotis Angelidis; Alexandros Theodoridis; Christos Batzios. 2015. "Integrated aquaculture - an old concept with new applications in Greece." International Journal of Data Analysis Techniques and Strategies 7, no. 2: 129-140.
This field study assessed the efficacy of a probiotic based on viable spores of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 (Calsporin; Calpis Co. Ltd., Japan) on the health status and productivity of sows and their litters through 2 full, sequential reproductive cycles from service of the first cycle to weaning of the second cycle. Fifty-six sows were allocated to 2 experimental groups, an untreated control (T1) group and a probiotic-treated (T2) group that received the same basal feed as the T1 group plus the probiotic at an approximate allowance of 30 g/t of feed (3 × 105 cfu/g). The offspring of T1 and T2 sows were offered basal and T2 creep feed (3 × 105 cfu/g), respectively. Health and zootechnical parameters of sows and piglets were recorded. Feeding the probiotic to sows and piglets resulted in significant benefits, observed in both cycles: 1) improved sow body condition during pregnancy (P < 0.05), 2) increased sow feed consumption, 3) reduced sow weight loss during lactation (P < 0.05), 4) reduced sow weaning–estrus interval (P < 0.05), and 5) higher BW of piglets at weaning (P < 0.05). Additionally, a significant (P < 0.05) improvement in piglet birth weight and in the number of piglets weaned was observed in the second cycle of T2 sows, while a significant improvement of mean daily gain of piglets from birth to weaning was observed in the first cycle of T2 sows. Microbiological examination of fecal samples showed that probiotic treatment significantly reduced both Escherichia coli and Clostridium spp. in piglet feces, particularly during the second cycle. The data suggested that continuous feed supplementation with the probiotic is beneficial for both sows and piglets, since zootechnical benefits were observed in both cycles. Copyright © 2015. American Society of Animal Science.
S. K. Kritas; T. Marubashi; G. Filioussis; E. Petridou; G. Christodoulopoulos; A. R. Burriel; A. Tzivara; A. Theodoridis; M. Pískoriková. Reproductive performance of sows was improved by administration of a sporing bacillary probiotic (Bacillus subtilis C-3102). Journal of Animal Science 2015, 93, 405 -413.
AMA StyleS. K. Kritas, T. Marubashi, G. Filioussis, E. Petridou, G. Christodoulopoulos, A. R. Burriel, A. Tzivara, A. Theodoridis, M. Pískoriková. Reproductive performance of sows was improved by administration of a sporing bacillary probiotic (Bacillus subtilis C-3102). Journal of Animal Science. 2015; 93 (1):405-413.
Chicago/Turabian StyleS. K. Kritas; T. Marubashi; G. Filioussis; E. Petridou; G. Christodoulopoulos; A. R. Burriel; A. Tzivara; A. Theodoridis; M. Pískoriková. 2015. "Reproductive performance of sows was improved by administration of a sporing bacillary probiotic (Bacillus subtilis C-3102)." Journal of Animal Science 93, no. 1: 405-413.
The use of alternative methods for teaching purposes is gradually increasing in higher education. In order to evaluate the usefulness of non-animal based practical classes in veterinary science, and to inform on possible benefits and limitations of these teaching tools, a questionnaire was designed and distributed to students. Although there was no complete agreement among the student responses, it was apparent that the majority of the students would like traditional training methods to be paired with alternative approaches, and expressed their desire to be exposed to as many humane modes of learning as possible. In addition, the students agreed that alternative teaching methods for training in veterinary science can reinforce existing knowledge that is required at the clinical stage, and that they can be effective supplements to traditional training methods. It was also concluded from the study that the use of new alternative approaches is very much appreciated by the students, whereas the validity and effectiveness of these methods are debatable, suggesting that further optimisation, proper application and evaluation of these alternative methods is required.
Magda Sachana; Alexandros Theodoridis; Cristina Cortinovis; Fabiola Pizzo; Evaggelos Kehagias; Marco Albonico; Francesca Caloni. Student Perspectives on the Use of Alternative Methods for Teaching in Veterinary Faculties. Alternatives to Laboratory Animals 2014, 42, 223 -233.
AMA StyleMagda Sachana, Alexandros Theodoridis, Cristina Cortinovis, Fabiola Pizzo, Evaggelos Kehagias, Marco Albonico, Francesca Caloni. Student Perspectives on the Use of Alternative Methods for Teaching in Veterinary Faculties. Alternatives to Laboratory Animals. 2014; 42 (4):223-233.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMagda Sachana; Alexandros Theodoridis; Cristina Cortinovis; Fabiola Pizzo; Evaggelos Kehagias; Marco Albonico; Francesca Caloni. 2014. "Student Perspectives on the Use of Alternative Methods for Teaching in Veterinary Faculties." Alternatives to Laboratory Animals 42, no. 4: 223-233.
Rooster infertility is a major concern in the poultry industry and protection of the male reproductive organs from pathogens is an essential aspect of reproductive physiology. During the last years, research on antimicrobial protection has elucidated the critical role of the antimicrobial peptides avian β-defensins (AvBDs) in the innate immunity in chickens. AvBDs have been reported to be expressed in the hen reproductive organs, providing protection against microbial pathogens including Salmonella Enteritidis (SE). However, mechanisms of antimicrobial protection of rooster reproductive organs and especially the testis, mediated by AvBDs are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of the complete family of the 14 AvBD genes, in the rooster testis in vivo, to determine whether sexual maturation affects their testicular mRNA abundance and to investigate whether SE infection alters their expression. Expression analysis revealed that 9 members of the AvBD family, namely AvBD1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12 and 14 were expressed in the testis. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that the mRNA abundance of three AvBDs was up regulated and of three AvBDs was down regulated with respect to sexual maturation. In addition, SE infection resulted in a significant induction of AvBD4, 10, 12 and 14 in the testis of sexually mature roosters. These findings provide strong evidence to suggest that an AvBD-mediated immune response mechanism exists in the rooster testis providing protection against bacterial pathogens including Salmonella species.
M. Anastasiadou; A. Theodoridis; G. Michailidis. Effects of sexual maturation and Salmonella infection on the expression of avian β-defensin genes in the chicken testis. Veterinary Research Communications 2014, 38, 107 -113.
AMA StyleM. Anastasiadou, A. Theodoridis, G. Michailidis. Effects of sexual maturation and Salmonella infection on the expression of avian β-defensin genes in the chicken testis. Veterinary Research Communications. 2014; 38 (2):107-113.
Chicago/Turabian StyleM. Anastasiadou; A. Theodoridis; G. Michailidis. 2014. "Effects of sexual maturation and Salmonella infection on the expression of avian β-defensin genes in the chicken testis." Veterinary Research Communications 38, no. 2: 107-113.
The purpose of this study is to examine the profile of dairy farms according to their reproduction management practices. Using established methodological tools on data from an extensive survey of 123 dairy farms the analysis yields five alternative profiles. It appears that artificial insemination is the preferred method of reproduction, however a non-trivial percentage (22%) also applies natural mating - solely or complementarily. Farms having adopted modern practices are divided in those which use them efficiently and those which lack the technical training to implement them properly; on the other hand, experienced farmers tend to keep established methods.
Ioannis Mitsopoulos; Athanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis. Exploring the reproduction practices of dairy farms: a typology. International Journal of Agricultural Resources, Governance and Ecology 2014, 10, 146 .
AMA StyleIoannis Mitsopoulos, Athanasios Ragkos, Alexandros Theodoridis. Exploring the reproduction practices of dairy farms: a typology. International Journal of Agricultural Resources, Governance and Ecology. 2014; 10 (2):146.
Chicago/Turabian StyleIoannis Mitsopoulos; Athanasios Ragkos; Alexandros Theodoridis. 2014. "Exploring the reproduction practices of dairy farms: a typology." International Journal of Agricultural Resources, Governance and Ecology 10, no. 2: 146.