bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contamination Control for Ultra-Sensitive Life-Detection Missions
Authors: Eigenbrode Jennifer L. , Gold Robert , Canham John S. , Schulze Erich , Davila Alfonso F. , Seas Antonios , Errigo Therese , Kujawa Faith , Kusnierkiewicz David , Lorentson Charles , McKay Christopher
Published: October 2021

A key science priority for planetary exploration is to search for signs of life in our Solar System. Life-detection mission concepts aim to assess whether or not biomolecular signatures of life are present, which requires highly sensitive instrumentation. This introduces greater risk of false positives, and perhaps false negatives. Stringent science-derived contamination requirements for achieving science measurements on life-detection missions necessitate mitigation approaches that minimize, protect from, and prevent science-relevant contamination of critical surfaces of the science payload and provide high confidence to life-detection determinations. To this end, we report on technology advances that focus on understanding contamination transfer from pre-launch processing to end of mission using high-fidelity physics in the form of computational fluid dynamics and sorption physics for monolayer adsorption/desorption, and on developing a new full-spacecraft bio-molecular barrier design that restricts contamination of the spacecraft and instruments by the launch vehicle hardware. The bio-molecular barrier isolates the spacecraft from biological, molecular, and particulate contamination from the external environment. Models were used to evaluate contamination transport for a designs reference mission that utilizes the barrier. Results of the modeling verify the efficacy of the barrier and an in-cruise decontamination activity. Overall mission contamination tracking from launch to science operations demonstrated exceptionally low probability on contamination impacting science measurements, meeting the stringent contamination requirements of femtomolar levels of compounds. These advances will enable planetary missions that aim to detect and identify signatures of life in our Solar System.
Rapid qPCR-Based Water Quality Monitoring in New York State Recreational Waters
Authors: Fernández-Baca Cristina P. , Spirito Catherine M. , Bae Justin S. , Szegletes Zsofia M. , Barott Nathan , Sausele Desiree J. , Brooks Yolanda M. , Weller Daniel L. , Richardson Ruth E.
Published: October 2021

Public swimming beaches often rely on culture-based methods to determine if fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) levels are greater than health risk-based beach action values (BAV). The slow turnaround time of culture-based assays can prevent effective beach closure and reopening decisions. Faster testing methods that can be completed on-site are needed. Additionally, beach closures are currently based on high FIB levels, but at-present there are no tools to examine the health risks to bathers from myriad pathogens (e.g., bacteria, viruses, protozoa) that may be present in recreational waters. Twelve New York State beaches (n = 9 freshwater and n = 3 marine) were monitored over the course of summer 2018, and two of the freshwater beaches were monitored in fall 2017 as part of a preliminary study. A rapid, in-field workflow for detecting fecal enterococci in water samples was tested using four assays on two Biomeme handheld devices. All Biomeme-based workflows involved in-field DNA extractions and qPCR using portable devices. Beach water samples were also analyzed using EPA-approved or EPA-based qPCR methods: two culture-based methods, Enterolert (targeting enterococci at freshwater and marine beaches) and Colilert (targeting E. coli at freshwater beaches); and one qPCR method based on EPA 1611.1. For low abundance pathogen quantification, nanoscale-qPCR was conducted in 2018 using the Pathogen Panel which targeted 12 viral, bacterial, and protozoal pathogens. In fall 2017, the qPCR-based methods performed similarly to Enterolert (r2 from 0.537 to 0.687) and correctly classified 62.5–75.0% of water samples for a BAV of 104 MPN per 100 ml. In summer 2018, the correlation between Enterococcus levels based on Biomeme qPCR and Enterolert varied substantially between the 12 beaches. Inclusion of diverse regions and beach types may have confounded the Biomeme qPCR results. The EPA 1611.1-based method showed a weak, significant correlation (r2 = 0.317, p = 0.00012) with Enterolert. Nanoscale-qPCR showed low-levels of pathogens present at all beach sites; but only three showed up with any substantial frequency, E. coli eae (25% of samples), norovirus (31.4%), and Giardia lamblia (11.4%). Preliminary studies to establish beach-specific correlation curves between rapid qPCR and Enterolert methods are needed before any qPCR assay is used to inform beach decisions.
A Simple Approach to Isolate Slow and Fast Cycling Organic Carbon Fractions in Central European Soils—Importance of Dispersion Method
Authors: Just Christopher , Poeplau Christopher , Don Axel , van Wesemael Bas , Kögel-Knabner Ingrid , Wiesmeier Martin
Published: October 2021

Numerous approaches have been developed to isolate fast and slow cycling soil organic carbon (SOC) pools using physical and chemical fractionation. Most of these methods are complex, expensive, and time consuming and unsuited for high-throughput application, such as for regional scale assessments. For simpler and faster fractionation via particle size the key issue is the dispersion of soil. It is unclear how the initial dispersion of soil affects the turnover rates of isolated fractions. We investigated five commonly used dispersion methods using different intensities: shaking in water, shaking in water with glass beads, ultrasonication at 100 and 450 J ml−1 and sodium hexametaphosphate (Na-HMP). We used soils from long-term field experiments that included a change from C3 to C4 vegetation and adjacent control sites using δ13C isotope ratio mass spectrometry. We evaluated the degree of C3/C4 moieties of the fractions, mass and carbon recovery and reproducibility as well as the time expenditures of the dispersions, sieving and drying techniques to develop an efficient and cheap fractionation method. Our results indicate that ultrasonication as well as H2O treatment with and without glass beads resulted in fractions with different turnover. Moreover, isolation performances depended on soil texture. While the isolation of the fractions using water with and without glass beads was equivalent to ultrasonication in soils with low clay contents, these methods had limited potential for soils with high clay contents. Furthermore, treatment with water alone had less reproducible results than other tested methods. The SOC recovery was comparable and satisfactory amongst non-chemical dispersion methods and reached over 95% for each of these methods. The use of Na-HMP was unsuccessful due to high time expenditures and strong SOC leaching. We propose particle size fractionation combined with ultrasonic dispersion as a fast and highly reliable method to quantify slow and fast cycling SOC pools for a wide range of soil types and textures from agricultural sites in central Europe.
Five-Year Changes in Community-Level Sport Participation, and the Role of Gender Strategies
Authors: Eime Rochelle , Charity Melanie , Harvey Jack , Westerbeek Hans
Published: October 2021

Background: The rate of participation in community-based sport by boys and men has been double that of girls and women. Contributing to this is the fact that some sports have been traditionally male-only or at least very male-dominated.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate changes in participation in sport by sex and age across 10 major sports in Australia over a 5-year period. In conjunction with the analysis of participation trends, the gender strategies that were developed and implemented during this time are reviewed.

Methods: This study encompassed all sport participants registered with one of 10 State Sporting Associations in Victoria, Australia in 2015 and in 2019. Participation rates by region, age and sex were calculated. State sport and health policies relating to female participation in sport were reviewed.

Results: There were 749,037 registrations in 2015 and 868,266 in 2019. A comparison between 2015 and 2019 shows increases in participation for women and girls across all age groups (4–84 years), and highest increases for those aged 4 (6.6%) and 5–9 (4.7%). For boys there was a considerable decrease in participation for those aged 5–9 years (−3.8%).

Discussion: This study provides evidence that whilst participation in sport is still dominated by males, the gap might be gradually closing and this is in line with recent strategies and investments into sport and wider cultural developments in society. The implications of these findings are discussed.
A Study of Regenerative Farming Practices and Sustainable Coffee of Ethnic Minorities Farmers in the Central Highlands of Vietnam
Authors: Le Quan Vu , Cowal Sanya , Jovanovic Grace , Le Don-Thuan
Published: October 2021

Coffee is highly vulnerable to climate change, thus impacting coffee-dependent livelihoods and economies. As rising temperatures continue to reduce the suitability of many historical coffee-growing regions, some farmers are practicing regenerative, organic coffee farming as a means of climate change mitigation. In the Central Highlands, the primary coffee growing region of Vietnam, conventional sun-grown, monocrop coffee requires intensive inputs, including fertilizers, pesticides and water. However, some farmers are converting their conventional sun farms to organic shade farms utilizing regenerative farming techniques for both environmental and economic reasons. This study examined regenerative farming practices and sustainable coffee in a small ethnic minority village in Lâm Ðồng province. The comparative analysis between soil samples taken from a regenerative shade-grown coffee farm and two conventional sun-grown coffee farms revealed that the soil of the regenerative farm, enriched with organic manure, is comparable to, or healthier than, the soil on the conventional farms enriched with chemical fertilizers. The results indicate that regenerative farming practices promote biodiversity; however, they also maintain microclimates that promote the growth of Roya fungus, which can decrease coffee yields. The economic analysis of farm costs and net returns found that regenerative farming practices decrease external inputs through a system of crop diversification and integrated livestock production that improves productivity and economic performance while preserving the ecological and environmental integrity of the landscape. Regenerative agriculture is an important step toward climate change adaptation and mitigation; however, in order for the farm communities in the Central Highlands to make the transition to regenerative agriculture, the success factors and benefits of this method must be demonstrated to the coffee farmers.
Effects of Prenatal Exposure to Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles on DNA Methylation and Gene Expression Profile in the Mouse Brain
Authors: Tachibana Ken , Kawazoe Shotaro , Onoda Atsuto , Umezawa Masakazu , Takeda Ken
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives: Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NP) are important materials used in commercial practice. Reportedly, TiO2-NP exposure during pregnancy can affect the development of the central nervous system in mouse offspring; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the impact of prenatal TiO2-NP exposure on global DNA methylation and mRNA expression patterns in the brains of neonatal mice.

Materials and Methods: Pregnant C57BL/6J mice were intratracheally administered a TiO2-NP suspension (100 μg/mouse) on gestational day 10.5, and brains were collected from male and female offspring at day 1 postpartum. After extraction of methylated DNA by immunoprecipitation, the DNA methylation profile was analyzed using a mouse CpG island microarray. Total RNA was obtained, and mRNA expression profiles were comprehensively assessed using microarray analysis.

Results: Among genes in the CpG island microarray, DNA methylation was increased in 614 and 2,924 genes and decreased in 6,220 and 6,477 genes in male and female offspring, respectively. Combined with mRNA microarray analysis, 88 and 89 genes were upregulated (≥1.5-fold) accompanied by demethylation of CpG islands, whereas 13 and 33 genes were downregulated (≤0.67-fold) accompanied by methylation of CpG islands in male and female offspring mice, respectively. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) revealed that these genes were enriched in gene ontology terms related to the regulation of transcription factors, cell proliferation, and organism development. Additionally, MeSH terms related to stem cells and morphogenesis were enriched.

Conclusion: Prenatal TiO2-NP exposure induced genome-wide alterations in DNA methylation and mRNA expression in the brains of male and female offspring. Based on GSEA findings, it can be speculated that prenatal TiO2-NP exposure causes adverse effects on brain functions by altering the DNA methylation state of the fetal brain, especially neural stem cells, resulting in the subsequent abnormal regulation of transcription factors that modulate development and differentiation.
Estimating the Economic Loss Due to Vibriosis in Net-Cage Cultured Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer): Evidence From the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Yazid Siti Hajar , Mohd Daud Hassan , Azmai Mohammad Noor Amal , Mohamad Nurliyana , Mohd Nor Norhariani
Published: October 2021

This study aims to estimate the economic loss due to vibriosis in the production of Asian seabass in floating net-cages on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Asian seabass has contributed significantly to Malaysia's economic activities and food security. However, its production can be hindered by the occurrence of diseases, such as vibriosis, causing severe economic losses to farmers. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 14 small-scale monoculture Asian seabass net-cage farms. Using a stochastic bioeconomic model and inputs from the survey, existing literature, and expert opinion, the economic losses were determined. Moreover, this model considered the prevalence of Vibrio spp. at a farm on the east coast and the risk posed by its infection from hatcheries. The results showed that 71.09% of Asian seabass simulated in the stochastic model survived. The mortality rate due to vibriosis and other causes was at 16.23 and 12.68%, respectively. The risk posed by Vibrio spp. infection from hatcheries contributed to 2.77% of the increase in Asian seabass mortality. The stochastic model estimated that the total cost of producing a tail of Asian seabass was €2.69 per kilogram. The economic loss of vibriosis was estimated at €0.19 per tail per kilogram, which represents 7.06% of the total production cost of Asian seabass per kilogram. An increase in the prevalence of clinical vibriosis and vibriosis case fatality rate at 42 and 100%, respectively, will lead to an increase in the cost of grow-out Asian seabass by €0.29 per tail from the default value. An increase in pellet price per kilogram by €1.38 and feed conversion ratio pellet by 0.96 will consequently increase the cost of grow-out Asian seabass by €2.29 per tail and €0.82 per tail, respectively. We find that the occurrence of Vibrio spp. infection at the hatchery level can contribute to an increased risk in the mortality of Asian seabass during the grow-out phase. Hence, we also need to focus on the control and prevention of vibriosis infection from hatcheries.
Understanding Antibiotic Use in Companion Animals: A Literature Review Identifying Avenues for Future Efforts
Authors: Tompson Alice C. , Mateus Ana L. P. , Brodbelt Dave C. , Chandler Clare I. R.
Published: October 2021

Addressing antibiotic use is essential to tackle antimicrobial resistance, a major human and animal health challenge. This review seeks to inform stewardship efforts in companion animals by collating research insights regarding antibiotic use in this group and identifying overlooked avenues for future research and stewardship efforts. The development of population-based methods has established that antibiotics are frequently used in companion animal care. Research insights are also contributing toward an in-depth comprehension of the contexts to antibiotic use. Qualitative approaches, for example, have enabled a nuanced understanding in four key areas: interactions with owners, clinical and financial risk management, time pressures, and clinic dynamics. This review identifies that much of the existing research frames antibiotic use as the result of choices made by the individuals at the interface of their use. Future research and policy endeavours could look beyond the moment of prescribing to consider the societal structures and networks in which companion animal antibiotic use is entangled. A diversification in research approaches and frameworks through which antibiotic use is understood will facilitate the identification of additional targets for stewardship initiatives beyond providing information and awareness campaigns.
Factors Determining the Success of Decision Making and Performance of Portuguese Companies
Authors: Monteiro Albertina Paula , Vale Joana , Silva Amélia
Published: October 2021

This paper empirically examines the impact of the quality of information and control system (the internal control system, the accounting information system, the financial information, and the non-financial information) on decision-making success and business performance. It follows a quantitative approach. An online questionnaire was developed and applied to the managers of Portuguese companies. The evaluation of the theoretical model was performed using the AMOS statistical software and applying the structural equation model technique. Based on 381 observations, the results show that the model variables explain about 30% and 70% of the variance of financial and non-financial performance, respectively. This study proves to be relevant not only for the development of the literature, as it evaluates an original and complex model, but also for managers, because it identifies the factors that contribute to the success of Portuguese companies.
Developing a Maturity Model for the Compliance Function of Investment Firms: A Preliminary Case Study from Norway
Authors: Holter Antonsen Helena , Madsen Dag Øivind
Published: October 2021

This paper develops a model for the assessment of the maturity of the compliance function of investment firms. The model indicates a path of evolution wherein the compliance function matures from being reactive and inconsistent to becoming a proactive and integrated part of a firm’s business practices. A preliminary case study approach is used to test the practical application of the model in a Norwegian investment firm. The findings generally illustrate the ways in which the effectiveness of the compliance function can be evaluated using a maturity model. When it was used in the assessment of the compliance function within the case firm, the suggested model proved to be compatible with practice. The model represents an improvement framework that can help practitioners identify the status of the compliance function and provide guidance on its future improvement.
The Value Chain of Locally Grown Japonica Rice in Mwea, Kenya
Authors: Watanabe Mamoru , Sumita Yutaka , Azechi Issaku , Ito Kengo , Noda Keigo
Published: October 2021

In Kenya, there is an urgent need to strengthen domestic rice production to improve food security. To achieve this, it is necessary to develop a value chain of competitive rice varieties that creates new value over and above that of conventional varieties. In this study, we focused on locally grown japonica rice produced in the Mwea area, which has recently begun to be distributed in Nairobi. Through interviews with Japanese restaurants, Japanese food stores, and consumers as well as interviews with stakeholders in the value chain the market price, consumer acceptability, and profitability of locally grown japonica rice were determined. We evaluated the value chain of locally grown japonica rice based on the interaction between the potential demand and a value chain analysis and examined improvement measures to establish the value chain. The results showed that 76% of consumers who eat staple foods other than rice rated locally grown japonica rice as “very good” or “good”, indicating that it may be acceptable to those who do not usually eat rice. The net profits for locally grown japonica rice were higher than those of conventional rice at the production, processing, and distribution stages, which is an advantage for producers and demonstrates that the elimination of middlemen is effective and highly profitable for each stakeholder. In contrast, the consumer price of locally grown japonica rice was higher than that of conventional rice, indicating that some challenges remain to be overcome. Our estimation approach will allow further study of target values such as selling price in other desired value chains. Together, our findings suggest the potential of the locally grown japonica rice value chain to contribute to the strengthening of domestic rice production.
Modeling and Assessing Heat Transfer of Piglet Microclimates
Authors: Smith Benjamin C. , Ramirez Brett C. , Hoff Steven J.
Published: October 2021

High piglet pre-weaning mortality rates can be attributed to poor creep area microclimate resulting in negative productivity, welfare, and economic consequences. A piglet mechanistic steady-state thermal balance model was developed using previous models and expanded to assess (a) thermal interactions of multiple pigs and (b) conduction heat transfer. The piglet Effective Environment Temperature (EET) equation was also modified to incorporate piglet age (day 0 to 30) and a conduction heat transfer term. Model parameters were validated with empirical data consisting of the thermal component (dry-bulb temperature, Tdb; mean radiant temperature, TMR; airspeed, U; mat underside temperature, Tm) of the microclimate and dimension data of the piglets (i.e., body weight, length, height, width, and calculated surface area). Model results demonstrate that the common microclimate supplemental heat sources (heat mats and heat lamps; HL) can meet the needs of the piglets. The new EET was more consistent for a novel semi-enclosed heated microclimate (SEHM) in comparison to the HL. This demonstrates the benefit of precision technologies over manually adjusted supplemental heat sources. The experimental data and model results suggest further development of an ideal thermal index for piglet microclimates needs to account for variations of piglet health and body condition to be more applicable in industry.
Genetic Diversity of Tamarixia radiata Populations and Their Associated Endosymbiont Wolbachia Species from China
Authors: Ashraf Hafiza Javaria , Akutse Komivi Senyo , Mukhtar Irum , Ramos Aguila Luis Carlos , Qasim Muhammad , Wang Wenjie , Bamisile Bamisope Steve , Wang Liande
Published: October 2021

Tamarixia radiata is one of the established biocontrol pests against the major Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, a vector of Candidatus Liberibacter that is a causal agent of citrus Huanglongbing (HLB) disease. Updated information and regional exploration on biocontrol pests are important elements for effective disease management strategies. In this study, the diversity and parasitism rate of T. radiata populations were evaluated. Due to the importance of the host–parasitoid relationship, the presence of Wolbachia as an endosymbiont was also investigated. The parasitism rate of various T. radiata populations from Ecuador and China ranged between 57.27% and 66.32%, respectively, with a non-significant emergence rate and a statistically similar sex ratio. Sequence analysis of ITS and COI from T. radiata populations was consistent with the morphological hypothesis that the collections represent a single species, whereas phylogeny of the wsp gene confirmed the presence of Wolbachia pipientis as an endosymbiont within T. radiata populations. Based on partial COI sequences, the maximum genetic diversity such as total haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.788), nucleotide, diversity (π = 0.2439), and average nucleotide difference (k = 171.844) was also estimated for different T. radiata populations. Furthermore, neutrality tests based on COI sequences indicated an overall contraction in T. radiata populations, whereas an expansion trend was observed in associated W. pipientis strains. This study clearly demonstrated the presence of genetically diverse T. radiata populations that were able to parasitize D. citri effectively, and these can be further explored as promising biocontrol candidates in integrated pest management strategies to solve citriculture economic loss caused by D. citri.
Aroma Compounds Are Responsible for an Herbaceous Off-Flavor in the Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.) cv. Regina during Fruit Development
Authors: Villavicencio Juan D. , Zoffoli Juan P. , Plotto Anne , Contreras Carolina
Published: October 2021

An herbaceous/grassy-like flavor has been reported by Chilean producers of Regina sweet cherry. There are no previous academic reports related to this flavor occurrence. Sweet cherries from five phenological stages were collected from six orchards with high herbaceous flavor incidence spanning Chilean production zones during the 2019/2020 season. Four experienced panelists tasted the fruit to identify the off-flavor incidence and intensity from four phenological stages, and the same cherries were analyzed for volatile compounds. Thirty-nine volatiles were identified and semi-quantified using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and GC-MS. The highest off-flavor incidence was found at the bright red (stage 3) and mahogany colors (stage 4). No single volatile explained the herbaceous flavor consistently among orchards. However, it appeared that the off-flavor was related to delayed ripening in cherries, with more C6 aldehydes and less esters. Furthermore, rainfall and the elevation of the orchard had a significant effect on the incidence of off-flavor. Preharvest practices that promote fruit ripening along with avoiding early harvests are recommended to reduce the incidence of herbaceous flavor in Regina.
Hybrid Sequencing in Different Types of Goat Skeletal Muscles Reveals Genes Regulating Muscle Development and Meat Quality
Authors: Pan Yangyang , Chen Sijia , Niu Shu , Bi Xilin , Qiao Liying , Yang Kaijie , Liu Jianhua , Liu Wenzhong
Published: October 2021

Domestic goats are commonly reared for meat and milk production in several regions of the world. However, the genetic mechanism underlying muscle development and meat quality of goats is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify known and novel genes regulating muscle development and meat quality of goats using second- and third-generation sequencing technologies. To achieve this, the meat quality and transcriptomes of longissimus dorsi (LD) and biceps femoris (BF) muscle tissues of Lingqiu Greyback goats were examined and compared. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and isoforms (DEIs) were functionally annotated. Results showed that 45,574 full-length transcripts covering 18,491 loci were characterized, and 12,566 genes were co-expressed in all samples. Differential expression analysis identified 231 DEGs, including 45 novel genes in the LD and BF muscles of the goats. Additionally, 1173 DEIs were found, in which 642 novel isoforms were identified in this study. Functional annotation and pathway analysis of the DEGs and DEIs revealed that some of them were associated with muscle growth and lipid metabolism. Overall, the findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the transcriptomic diversity underlying meat quality and muscle development of goat.
Emotions and Dog Bites: Could Predatory Attacks Be Triggered by Emotional States?
Authors: d’Ingeo Serenella , Iarussi Fabrizio , De Monte Valentina , Siniscalchi Marcello , Minunno Michele , Quaranta Angelo
Published: October 2021

Dog biting events pose severe public health and animal welfare concerns. They result in several consequences for both humans (including physical and psychological trauma) and the dog involved in the biting episode (abandonment, relocation to shelter and euthanasia). Although numerous epidemiological studies have analyzed the different factors influencing the occurrence of such events, to date the role of emotions in the expression of predatory attacks toward humans has been scarcely investigated. This paper focuses on the influence of emotional states on triggering predatory attacks in dogs, particularly in some breeds whose aggression causes severe consequences to human victims. We suggest that a comprehensive analysis of the dog bite phenomenon should consider the emotional state of biting dogs in order to collect reliable and realistic data about bite episodes.
Effects of Dietary Glucose Oxidase Supplementation on the Performance, Apparent Ileal Amino Acids Digestibility, and Ileal Microbiota of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Meng Yong , Huo Haonan , Zhang Yang , Bai Shiping , Wang Ruisheng , Zhang Keying , Ding Xuemei , Wang Jianping , Zeng Qiufeng , Peng Huanwei , Xuan Yue
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of glucose oxidase (GOD) supplementation on growth performance, apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of nutrients, intestinal morphology, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and microbiota in the ileum of broilers. Six hundred 1-day-old male broilers were randomly allotted to four groups of 10 replicates each with 15 birds per replicate cage. The four treatments included the basal diet without antibiotics (Control) and the basal diet supplemented with 250, 500, or 1000 U GOD/kg diet (E250, E500 or E1000). The samples of different intestinal segments, ileal mucosa, and ileal digesta were collected on d 42. Dietary GOD supplementation did not affect daily bodyweight gain (DBWG) and the ratio of feed consumption and bodyweight gain (FCR) during d 1-21 (p > 0.05); however, the E250 treatment increased DBWG (p = 0.03) during d 22–42 as compared to control. Dietary GOD supplementation increased the AIDs of arginine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, threonine, cysteine, serine, and tyrosine (p < 0.05), while no significant difference was observed among the GOD added groups. The E250 treatment increased the villus height of the jejunum and ileum. The concentrations of secreted immunoglobulin A (sIgA) in ileal mucosa and the contents of acetic acid and butyric acid in ileal digesta were higher in the E250 group than in the control (p < 0.05), whereas no significant differences among E500, E1000, and control groups. The E250 treatment increased the richness of ileal microbiota, but E500 and E100 treatment did not significantly affect it. Dietary E250 treatment increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes phylum and Lactobacillus genus, while it decreased the relative abundance of genus Escherichina-Shigella (p < 0.05). Phylum Fusobacteria only colonized in the ileal digesta of E500 treated broilers and E500 and E1000 did not affect the relative abundance of Firmicutes phylum and Lactobacillus and Escherichina-Shigella genera as compared to control. These results suggested that dietary supplementation of 250 U GOD/kg diet improves the growth performance of broilers during d 22–42, which might be associated with the alteration of the intestinal morphology, SCFAs composition, and ileal microbiota composition.
Responses of Outdoor Housed Dairy Cows to Shade Access during the Prepartum Period under Temperate Summer Conditions
Authors: Cartes Daniel , Strappini Ana , Matamala Fabiola , Held-Montaldo Rodrigo , Sepúlveda-Varas Pilar
Published: October 2021

Cows are affected by environmental factors associated with warm weather conditions; however, little is known about the effect of shade access especially during the prepartum period of dairy cows in temperate regions. This study assessed the effect of shade on the behavior (lying, rumination, feeding, and drinking), body fat mobilization, and health status of outdoor-housed dairy cows during the prepartum period under temperate summer conditions. During the 3 weeks prior to calving, 24 multiparous Holstein cows were grouped (4 cows/group) and assigned to either an open corral without shade or with access to shade until calving. We daily measured shade use, lying, rumination, feeding, and drinking behavior. Weekly, prepartum non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and postpartum b-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations were measured. Clinical examination was periodically performed individually until 21 postpartum days. Shade use averaged 45.6, 46.0, and 19.8% during the hottest hours of the day (11–18 h) in weeks 3, 2, and 1 prior to calving, respectively. Shaded cows had higher values for rumination time and feeding time during the morning but spent less time drinking during the warmest hours than unshaded cows. NEFA and BHB concentrations and clinical diseases were similar between both treatments. These findings suggest that under temperate summer conditions the access to an artificial shade is an important resource, observing beneficial effects mainly on behavioral variables.
Identifying Suitable Supplements to Improve Piglet Survival during Farrowing and Lactation
Authors: Threadgold Tobias , Greenwood Emma Catharine , Van Wettere William
Published: October 2021

Piglet mortality during parturition and prior to weaning is an ongoing economic and welfare issue. This review collates the current literature describing the effects of specific dietary supplements on key parameters affecting piglet survival. Four distinct parameters were identified as having a direct impact on the survival of piglets to weaning: stillbirth rate, birth weight and weight variation, daily gain and weaning weight, and colostrum and milk quality. In the primary stage, relevant literature from the past 5 years was reviewed, followed by a secondary review of literature older than 5 years. The focal parameters benefitted from different supplements. For example, stillbirth may be reduced by supplements in late gestation, including forms of arginine, alpha-tocopherol-selenium, uridine, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast culture, whereas average daily gain and weaning weight were related closely to supplements which improved colostrum and milk quality, most commonly fats and fatty acids in the form of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, soybean oil, and fish oil, and polysaccharides, such as ginseng polysaccharide. Therefore, an effective supplement plan for piglet mortality reduction must consider the circumstances of the individual system and target one or more of the highlighted parameters.
How Insoluble Inclusions and Intersecting Layers Affect the Leaching Process within Potash Seams
Authors: Steding Svenja , Kempka Thomas , Kühn Michael
Published: October 2021

Potash seams are a valuable resource containing several economically interesting, but also highly soluble minerals. In the presence of water, uncontrolled leaching can occur, endangering subsurface mining operations. In the present study, the influence of insoluble inclusions and intersecting layers on leaching zone evolution was examined by means of a reactive transport model. For that purpose, a scenario analysis was carried out, considering different rock distributions within a carnallite-bearing potash seam. The results show that reaction-dominated systems are not affected by heterogeneities at all, whereas transport-dominated systems exhibit a faster advance in homogeneous rock compositions. In return, the ratio of permeated rock in vertical direction is higher in heterogeneous systems. Literature data indicate that most natural potash systems are transport-dominated. Accordingly, insoluble inclusions and intersecting layers can usually be seen as beneficial with regard to reducing hazard potential as long as the mechanical stability of leaching zones is maintained. Thereby, the distribution of insoluble areas is of minor impact unless an inclined, intersecting layer occurs that accelerates leaching zone growth in one direction. Moreover, it is found that the saturation dependency of dissolution rates increases the growth rate in the long term, and therefore must be considered in risk assessments.
Polarization and Incidence Angle Independent Low-Profile Wideband Metamaterial Electromagnetic Absorber Using Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) Film
Authors: Park Sangmin , Shin Geonyeong , Kim Hyun , Kim Youngwan , Yoon Ick-Jae
Published: October 2021

We use indium tin oxide (ITO), one of the representative resistive materials, for the implementation of a metamaterial electromagnetic (EM) absorber with a high absorbance in a wide frequency range. Highly symmetrical split ring resonators made of ITO film are deposited on the polyethylene terephthalate with transparent and flexible features, and such a configuration causes the proposed absorber to be insensitive to polarization and incidence angles. The proposed absorber, with a profile of only 0.171λ, exhibits a wideband absorbance of 7.2 GHz to 27 GHz, with a 90% absorption criterion. A prototype is built, and all the computed expectations from the full-wave EM simulations in this work are verified experimentally.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Small-Scale Rooftop PV Systems: The Case of Dragotin, Croatia
Authors: Bošnjaković Mladen , Čikić Ante , Zlatunić Boris
Published: October 2021

A large drop in prices of photovoltaic (PV) equipment, an increase in electricity prices, and increasing environmental pressure to use renewable energy sources that pollute the environment significantly less than the use of fossil fuels have led to a large increase in installed roof PV capacity in many parts of the world. In this context, this paper aims to analyze the cost-effectiveness of installing PV systems in the rural continental part of Croatia on existing family houses. A typical example is a house in Dragotin, Croatia with an annual consumption of 4211.70 kWh of electricity on which PV panels are placed facing south under the optimal slope. The calculation of the optimal size of a PV power plant with a capacity of 3.6 kW, without battery energy storage, was performed by the Homer program. The daily load curve was obtained by measuring the electricity consumption at the facility every hour during a characteristic day in the month of June. As most of the activities are related to electricity consumption, repeating during most days of the year, and taking into account seasonal activities, daily load curves were made for a characteristic day in each month of the year. Taking into account the insolation for the specified location, using the Internet platform Solargis Prospect, hourly data on the electricity production of selected PV modules for a characteristic day in each month were obtained. Based on the previous data, the electricity injected into the grid and taken from the grid was calculated. Taking into account the current tariffs for the sale and purchase of electricity, investment prices, and maintenance of equipment, the analysis shows that such a PV system can pay off in 10.5 years without government incentives.
Methodology for Efficient Bitumen Storage with Reduced Energy Consumption
Authors: Tahri Amina , Bouya Mohsine , Ghazouani Mokhtar , Achak Ouafae , Chafik Tarik
Published: October 2021

This paper studies the possibility of minimizing energy consumption during 35/50 bitumen storage. Similarly to most bitumen companies, the company with which we collaborated uses fossil fuel to maintain bitumen tanks at 150 °C. The main objective is to optimize energy usage. To achieve this purpose, we tested two new storage processes. One is based on dynamic temperature storage between 140 and 160 °C, and the other on room temperature conditions. This work evaluates the effect of these storage conditions on the quality of 35/50 bitumen, and studies the energy aspect to calculate the energy profit for every storage method. After storage, we have studied short-term and long-term ageing using the Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFOT) and the Pressure Ageing Vessel (PAV) tests, respectively. We characterized the samples using needle penetration at 25 °C, the softening point, and Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. We observed that the change in physical properties is negligible after the tested storage processes. Chemically, both the storage conditions affected the oxidative behavior acceptably; the carbonyl index was the same in the long term. We conclude that we can store 35/50 bitumen at room temperature conditions, which follow us to save more than three times the energy needs compared to the standard configurations.
Application of the KINEROS 2 Model to Natural Basin for Estimation of Erosion
Authors: Fortuño Ibáñez Javier , Gómez Valentín Manuel , Jang Dongwoo
Published: October 2021

This study compares different methods to calculate erosion and sedimentation processes in the Aviar Basin, a natural peri-urban basin located in Comúd’Encamp (Andorra). The basin area is small, covering less than one square kilometer. Currently, increased densities of houses and buildings under natural basins can cause drainage problems. This is due to the heavy accumulation of eroded solid material in the sewer systems. Therefore, for a given basin condition, accurate estimation of erosion and sedimentation amounts is important. The development of erosion models aims to facilitate the estimation of eroded solid material and the design of possible protective measures to prevent soil losses. Both empirical and physically based erosion models were used to study the Aviar Basin for these purposes. Empirical models include USLE (Universal Soil Loss Equation), RUSLE (Revised USLE) and MUSLE (Modified USLE), while one physically based model, KINEROS 2, was used. The volumes of solid materials produced in the Aviar Basin during the year 2012 were determined using these four different erosion models and then compared between them. The results of this study show that the estimation of soil loss using KINEROS 2 is useful in practice because the results obtained are close to those obtained from the empirical models.
Mechanical Characteristics of Structures and Ground Deformation Caused by Shield Tunneling Under-Passing Highways in Complex Geological Conditions Based on the MJS Method
Authors: Li Zikun , Lv Jianbing , Xie Xiaodong , Fu Helin , Huang Juan , Li Zhanrong
Published: October 2021

This study defined the height ratio of soft-rock strata and established a numerical model for analyzing shield construction in upper-soft, lower-hard composite strata together with field monitoring data. In this way, the influence of shield tunneling while passing under the pile foundation of the culvert at a short distance (the shortest distance is 1.4 m) in the typical upper-soft, lower-hard composite strata in Guangzhou can be examined. Moreover, the reinforcement effects of the ground, the bridges, and the culverts, using the strata-reinforcing plan dominated by the metro jet system (MJS) in a narrow space, are evaluated. Based on the results, (i) the maximum ground subsidence is found at the position in which the height ratio of the soft rock is 1.0. (ii) However, differential subsidence might be found in the subsequent shield construction when the soft-rock height ratio of the adjacent excavated surface ranges from 0 to 0.2 and from 0.5 to 1. (iii) The concentrated release of stress has a greater impact on the structure than the geological conditions of the shield tunneling face. (iv) Reinforcing with the MJS method contains the concentrated release of stress. This study can provide a reference for controlling the deformation of the under-crossing structure in the shield construction of the upper-soft, lower-hard composite strata.
An Enhanced Frequency Response Strategy of a DFIG Based on Over-Speed De-Loaded Curve
Authors: Xu Yien , Wang Hongmei , Yang Dejian
Published: October 2021

The increasing level of wind power penetration is seriously threatening the frequency stability of the power system. In this article, we suggest an enhanced frequency response strategy of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) based on over-speed de-loaded curve using a novel power function to boost the frequency nadir and settling frequency and reduce the maximum rate of change of frequency (ROCOF) with more efficiency. To achieve this objective, the reference power increases to the torque limit at the de-load operating point and then decreases with the rotor speed toward the maximum power point tracking operating conditions. The simulation results on various wind power penetrations clearly demonstrated that the enhanced frequency response strategy is beneficial to boosting the frequency nadir and settling frequency and reduce the ROCOF.
Acute and Repeated Toxicological Study of Anti-Inflammatory Herbal Formula, Yeosinsan, in Rats
Authors: Koo Jin-Mo , Yang Mi-Jin , Kim Bo-Kyung , Yoo Jeong Eun , Park Jang-Kyung , Yang Hee Jin , Joo Jongkil , Joo Bo Sun , Heo Jeong-Doo , Ha Ki-Tae
Published: October 2021

Yeosinsan, an herbal formula composed of roots of Paeonia lactiflora and tubers of Cyperus rotundus, was reported as a possible anti-inflammatory and pro-fertility drug. However, the safety of Yeosinsan has not yet been previously investigated. The possible acute and chronic oral toxicity of Yeosinsan was estimated using female and male Sprague Dawley rats. During the administration period, rats were monitored for mortality, body weight changes, food intake, clinical signs, and gross findings. Hematological analysis, serum biochemistry analysis, urinalysis, organ weight measurement, and histopathological examination were also conducted after sacrifice. Acute and chronic oral administration of Yeosinsan did not result in any signs of toxicity in the animals during the observation period. However, in the histopathological examination, several significant changes were observed in the stomach and spleen. In the high-dose group, extramedullary hematopoiesis and increased pigmentation in the spleen and squamous cell hyperplasia in the forestomach were observed. In conclusion, the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of the test material, Yeosinsan, was estimated at 1000 mg∙kg−1∙d−1 for both male and female rats. Therefore, our data suggest that Yeosinsan might be safe to use for treating female infertility.
Lipoxygenase Enzymes, Oligosaccharides (Raffinose and Stachyose) and 11sA4 and A5 Globulins of Glycinin Present in Soybean Meal Are Not Drivers of Enteritis in Juvenile Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Rombenso Artur N. , Blyth David , James Andrew T. , Nikolaou Teisha , Simon Cedric J.
Published: October 2021

Soybean meal has been largely investigated and commercially used in fish nutrition. However, its inclusion levels have been carefully considered due to the presence of antinutritional factors, which depending on a series of factors might induce gut inflammation damaging the mucosal integrity and causing enteritis. Several strategies including genetic engineering have been applied attempting to reduce or eliminate some of the antinutritional factors. Accordingly, we assessed the intestinal health of juvenile Atlantic salmon fed high levels of speciality soybean genotypes with reduced-to-no content amounts of lipoxygenases, altered glycinin profile and reduced levels of oligosaccharides. No major signs of enteritis, only indication of enteritis progression, was noticed in the soybean meal-based diets illustrated by mild changes in distal intestine morphology. Whereas fish, fed fishmeal control feeds, displayed normal distal intestine integrity. Speciality soybean types did not improve intestinal health of juvenile Atlantic salmon suggesting these antinutrients are not drivers of the intestinal inflammatory process in this species. No additional benefits in terms of production performance or blood biochemistry were noticed in the speciality soybean types compared to the traditional soybean.